Campervan & Motorhome Hire Australia

Drive the classic east‑coast route from Sydney to Brisbane in a campervan and soak up surf beaches, coastal towns, hinterland wineries and relaxed northern NSW vibes. This guide gives a practical, day‑by‑day itinerary plus driving times, distances and smart tips for campsites and seasons.

Estimated Sydney to Brisbane road trip length: 10–14 days • Total distance: ~900–1,200 km (with detours) • Best time: March–May & September–November (shoulder seasons)

Sydney to Brisbane Road Trip Highlights

Coastal city escapes: Newcastle’s beaches and waterfront dining
Hunter Valley wineries and cellar‑door tastings (detour)
Port Stephens dolphin cruises and sand‑dune adventures
Port Macquarie and its scenic headlands, koala walks and riverfront
Coffs Harbour beaches and the Big Banana attractions
Byron Bay’s lighthouse walk and relaxed surf culture
Gold Coast beaches, hinterland hikes and theme parks before Brisbane

Route Overview

Direction: Northbound from Sydney to Brisbane via the Pacific Motorway (M1/A1) with coastal detours and inland wine regions.

Approximate segment distances & driving times (coastal route):

Sydney → Newcastle: ~170 km / ~2 hrs
Newcastle → Port Stephens: ~60 km / ~1 hr
Port Stephens → Port Macquarie: ~240 km / ~3 hrs
Port Macquarie → Coffs Harbour: ~160 km / ~2–2.5 hrs
Coffs Harbour → Yamba: ~140 km / ~2 hrs
Yamba → Byron Bay: ~125 km / ~1.5 hrs
Byron Bay → Gold Coast: ~95 km / ~1.5 hrs
Gold Coast → Brisbane: ~80 km / ~1 hr

10‑14‑Day Sydney to Brisbane Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Sydney → Central Coast

Explore Bouddi National Park’s coastal walks and beach towns like Terrigal. Overnight in a beachfront holiday park.

Day 2: Central Coast → Newcastle

Check out the Newcastle Memorial Walk, ocean baths and Darby Street cafés.

Day 3: Newcastle → Port Stephens

Join a dolphin‑watching cruise, try sandboarding on Stockton Bight dunes.

Day 4: Port Stephens → Hunter Valley

Inland detour for wine tasting, cheese and chocolate trails.

Day 5: Hunter Valley → Port Macquarie

Stop at Crowdy Bay National Park or Tacking Point Lighthouse.

Day 6: Port Macquarie → South West Rocks

Visit Trial Bay Gaol, snorkel at Horseshoe Bay.

Day 7: South West Rocks → Coffs Harbour

Enjoy the Jetty, Forest Sky Pier and Big Banana.

Day 8: Coffs Harbour → Yamba

Chill on quiet beaches, kayak the Clarence River.

Day 9: Yamba → Byron Bay

Lighthouse walk, surf lesson or markets.

Day 10: Byron Bay → Gold Coast

Spend time at Burleigh Heads or Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.

Day 11: Gold Coast Hinterland

Explore Lamington or Springbrook National Park.

Day 12: Gold Coast → Brisbane

Arrive in Brisbane, explore South Bank.

Day 13–14: Brisbane & Surrounds

Optional day trips to Moreton Island or the Scenic Rim.

Camping, Parks & Facilities

Holiday parks: Widely available—great for powered sites, showers, laundries and pools.
National and regional park campgrounds: Some require bookings; facilities vary from basic to well serviced.
Booking systems: Book ahead during school holidays, long weekends and peak summer.
Powered vs unpowered: Choose powered sites for longer stays or if your van relies on mains power for refrigeration and charging.

When to Go & Safety Notes

Best weather: Shoulder seasons (March–May and September–November) offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
Summer: Warmer and busier—book early and expect higher rates.
Wildlife & roads: Avoid dusk/dawn driving in rural areas to reduce animal‑strike risk.
Local advice: Always follow local signage for beach safety and seasonal hazards.

What to Pack for a Sydney to Brisbane Coastal Road Trip

Light layers plus a warm layer for cool evenings
Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, SPF sunscreen
Insect repellent, compact first‑aid kit and personal meds
Reusable water bottles, cooler or ice bricks
Swimwear, walking shoes, thongs/water shoes
Torch, power bank and spare charging cables

Quick FAQs

How many days do I need from Sydney to Brisbane?

10–14 days allows a relaxed pace with time for inland detours and beach days.

Is the drive suitable for first‑time campervan travellers?

Yes. The M1/A1 is well maintained and signposted.

Do I need to prebook campsites?

Recommended in school holidays, long weekends and for popular towns.

Plan & Book Your Campervan

Use a campervan finder to compare vans, motorhomes and camper trailers across Australia. Check availability for your Sydney to Brisbane dates and book early in peak season.

Sydney to Brisbane Campervan Itinerary: The Pacific Coast Drive (10–14 Days)