Australian Coastal Getaway: Cains to Sydney in 21 days

Morning: Your journey will start with a relaxing morning at the Cairns Aquarium, where you will get up and close to some of the species that call Tropical North Queensland home. The aquarium is open every day from 9:30am to 3:30pm (with last admissions closing at 2:30pm) which gives you plenty of time to see everything.

Afternoon: Surrounded by beautiful rainforest the Babinda Boulders is a popular attraction south of Cairns. The fresh-water creek is lined with huge boulders, where the water weaves between them to fill the large pools where you can stop in for a swim.

Evening: The Kennedy Walking Track is a popular trail is and coastal getaway, and at only four kilometres the route has a combination of beach and forest walking. Along the way you will enjoy stunning views and may even be lucky enough to spot a cassowary, wallaby or one of the many species of rainforest animals that call the trail home.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Mission Beach Camping and Caravan Park, 53 Porter Promenade, Mission Beach QLD 4852. Powered Site

Image: Cairns Aquarium – Tourism Queensland

Morning: If you were not lucky enough to spot a cassowary on your walk yesterday you will be happy to be able to visit one today. The Big Cassowary is the first of many large Australian attractions you will visit on this trip, located next to the aptly named Cassowary Shopping Centre, this roadside attraction shows off the flightless bird and is worth taking the time to stop and grab a selfie.

Afternoon: Our afternoon is also filled with oversized attractions, as we visit the Tully Golden Gumboot. Located just off the Bruce Highway, the Golden Gumboot is just shy of eight meters in height and even includes a winding internal stairwell to allow visitors to ascend to the viewing platform that overlooks the town.

Evening: One of north Queensland’s prettiest waterfalls Murray Falls features large volumes of water racing over the granite boulders that have been naturally sculpted by nature to form rock pools in this picturesque spot. You will even be able to spend the night at the falls and fall asleep to the serene sounds of the falls.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Murray Falls Camping Area, Girramay National Park, Murray Falls Road, Murray Upper QLD 4854. Unpowered Site

Tip: You’ll need a permit to camp here. Visit the Queensland Government’s department of Tourism, Science and Innovation to book a site.

Image: The Golden Gumboot – Tourism Queensland

Morning: A morning walk is always a good thing, and we have a good one lined up – located in the Caldwell State Forest, this 60-minute walk leaves from the Caldwell lookout car park. The first lookout will give you views over to Oyster Point, the second has views of Rockingham Bay and finally the third has views over Hinchbrook Island.

Afternoon: Big Crystal Creek is a stunning location, less than an hour from Townsville. A perfect spot to cool off after your morning travels. With a waterfall and natural rock slide you have entered a waterpark wonderland.

Evening: Your final stop of the day is another picture opportunity – the Big Townsville Sign is a popular spot for visitors to stop and grab a picture to share with family and friends to show some of the locations they have been on their travels. So, take the time to stop and let everyone know about your adventure, and feel free to tag us in any photos using our Instagram!

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks – Rowes Bay, 46 Heatleys Parade, Belgian Gardens QLD 4810. Powered Site

Image: Cardwell Lookout – Tourism Queensland

Morning: Our road trip filled with big things is continuing this morning with a visit to Queensland’s Big Mango! Located at the Bowen Visitor Centre this 10-meter-high fruit pays homage to the delicious fruit that bears the towns namesake – the Bowen Mango! While there, treat yourself to a delicious mango sorbet from the visitor centre.

Afternoon: The Proserpine Historical Museum is a wonderful attraction, which is run entirely by volunteers, that allows you to explore the history of Prosperine – a sugar cane and cattle town. The museum is home to a vast array of printed materials, photographs and artifacts that reflect the history of the area.

Evening: The Eungella National Park is a mist-shrouded, forest filled mountain refuge that is home to a wide range of native plants and wildlife. This tranquil stop is a wonderful place to slow down and connect with the beauty that makes Queensland famous. With a range of walks available from 30-minute easy walks to full-day treks, this spot has a walk to suit everybody.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Finch Hatton Showground, 21 Anzac Parade, Finch Hatton QLD 4756. Powered Site.

Image: The Big Mango – Tourism Queensland

Morning: Opened to the public in 2003 the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens has a focus on flora from the Queensland Central Coast, along with other Australian Natives and exotics plants from similar climates around the world. The gardens are home to many animals and plants, some of whom are endangered in the wild. The gardens are open from 5am to 9pm with well-lit pathways making it a fantastic place to visit throughout the day.

Afternoon: The Bluewater Lagoon is a tropical playground in the heart of the city of Mackay. Featuring three sparkling tiered pools with depths suited to all ages. There is also an on-site café and BBQ facilities that make this the perfect spot to stop and enjoy a family afternoon filled with laughter and fun.

Evening: If Blue Lagoon hasn’t worn out the family, then an evening stop at Queens Park will do the trick. The park boasts beautiful gardens, lawns and historic buildings, as well as one of the region’s major playgrounds.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: The Park Mackay, 284 Farrellys Road, Paget QLD 4740. Powered Site.

Image: Mackay Regional Botanic Garden

Morning: This is a great opportunity for a slow morning with a home-cooked meal in your motorhome, followed by a gentle walk along The Bluewater Sculpture Trail. This public art exhibition that consists of six installations by Indigenous Queensland artist, Fiona Foley. The artworks were commissioned in 2008, the year of the Federal Apology to the Stolen Generation, and form a permanent reminder in the Mackay community to continue to impart narratives to the residents and visitors to the region.

Afternoon: St. Lawrence Creek Bridge Memorial and Marg’s Park are a quiet tribute to the engineering ingenuity and transport history that helped shape St. Lawrence. They commemorate the original 1921 railway bridge that once crossed the creek as a part of the Great Northern Railway which extended from Brisbane to Cairns.

Evening: The Malborough Historical Museum aims to inspire younger generations through the careful preservation and celebration of the heritage of the people of Malborough. The museum is home to many collections, including a display of horse-drawn carriages, a blacksmiths shed and a Chrysoprase display (also known as Australian Jade this semi-precious green stone was a favourite of Alexander the Great).

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Malborough Roadhouse, 13 Perkins Road, Malborough QLD 4705. Powered Site.

Image: Cruisin Motorhomes’ 6 Berth Discovery

Morning: The Capricorn Caves are a family-owned attraction just minutes off the Pacific Coast Highway. Featuring breathtaking views, the caves are home to plenty of native wildlife and endangered species. Take the time to go on a guided tour where you will hear the captivating stories of the Australian landscape. If you are feeling a bit warm after your tour, you can take a dip in the pool.

Afternoon: Formerly known as the Rockhampton Art Gallery, the Rockhampton Museum of Art was founded in 1967 with a dedicated exhibition space at the Rockhampton Town Hall. The Gallery has since moved twice, settling in its current home in Quay Street in 2002. The gallery honours the tradition and commitment of contemporary Australian painting and is the home of the Bayton Award, a biennial prize for Central Queensland artists.

Evening: The Walter Reid Cultural Centre is Rockhampton’s premier community arts and leisure centre. The centre is home to many art, craft and music groups. The centre also hosts exhibitions, workshops and live performances. Then there is a perfect opportunity to enjoy a quiet dinner in your motorhome or even take advantage of the in-built entertainment system to enjoy a movie night.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Discovery Parks – Rockhampton, 394 Yaamba Road, Norman Gardens QLD 4701. Powered Site.

Image: Capricorn Caves – Tourism Queensland

Morning: The Rockhampton Botanic Gardens are among the oldest public gardens in Queensland. The gardens include a tranquil Japanese garden that was designed by a Japanese landscape designer Kenzo Ogata as a part of the Treaty of Friendship that was signed after World War II. The gardens also include a playground and BBQ facilities, as well as the Rockhampton Zoo, which is home to over 60 native and exotic animals.

Afternoon: The Gladstone Regional Art Gallery and Museum was established in 1985 and is dedicated to promoting art, culture and heritage for the Gladstone Region and Central Queensland community. The museum offers free entry as is open from Monday to Saturday.

Evening: For the evening escape, why not try and escape! Take a trip to Gladstone’s first escape room at The Way Out Escape Room. There are several escape rooms to choose from and even some virtual reality games. Bookings are essential, so if you are interested in a unique escape then book ahead to ensure your spot.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Gladstone Showground RV Campsite, Tank Street, Gladstone Central, QLD 4680. Powered Site.

Image: Gladstone Art Gallery and Museum – Tourism Queensland

Morning: Listed as one of Australia’s top ten botanic gardens by Australian Geographic. The Tondoon Botanic Gardens are home to rainforest plants from the Port Curtis, South East Queensland and Far North Queensland regions. Offering a relaxing balance of manicured gardens and natural landscaping that overlooks Lake Tondoon, you can enjoy a stroll through the Japanese Tea Gardens or take advantage of the multiple walking tracks.

Afternoon: It is time for a unique experience to enjoy the benefits of a park as well as a zoo. The Alexandra Park Zoo is located next to Alexandra Park, providing visitors with a space to enjoy a picnic under the shady trees before going to visit the residents of the zoo. The zoo has a wide variety of animals, including emus, wallabies and even dingos. If you are lucky you will even get to witness the zoo-keeper bring the dingoes out for their daily walkies through the park!

Evening: The Hinkler Hall of Aviation brings to life the adventures of Bert Hinkler, one of Australia’s famous pioneer solo aviators, through interactive displays and exhibits. Grab an early evening snack at the on-site cafe before taking the time to learn about Bert’s life and adventures – even stopping to sit in the replica Avro Baby Aircraft!

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Bundaberg East Cabin and Tourist Park, 83 Princess Street, Bundaberg East QLD 4670. Powered Site.

Image: Hinkler Hall of Aviation – Tourism Queensland

Morning: A wonderful experience for families and wildlife enthusiasts, the Snakes Downunder Reptile Park and Zoo offers an engaging experience that allows visitors to connect with the resident Australian wildlife. For those seeking a little closer-up experience there are Reptile, Koala and Meerkat encounters as well as daily shows featuring snakes and reptiles (including crocodiles).

Afternoon: Home to the bronze statue of Mr. T (a male Mary River Turtle), the Tiaro Memorial Park is a wonderful place to park up and enjoy and afternoon. There is a well-equipped playground, and you are walking distance from The Royal Hotel Tiaro is you are looking for a good old-fashioned pub for a meal.

Evening: Gympie was once heralded as the “town that saved Queensland from bankruptcy”, and there is no better place to discover this history than the Gympie Gold Mining and Historical Museum. You can explore and learn about the history of Gympie, look at the many exhibits, including a wonderful collection of vehicles and you can even enjoy the on-site café and model railway.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Nomads Rest Caravan Park and Holiday Accommodation, 97 Gympie Connection Road, Victory Heights QLD 4570. Powered Site.

Image: Cruisin Motorhomes’ 6 Berth Discovery

Morning: Matilda was the mascot for the 1982 Brisbane Commonwealth Games! Standing at over 13 meters tall, she was able to turn her head and wink. After living at several locations after the games, Matilda came to reside at her current home in Traveston off the Bruce Highway. Not only is the Traveston rest stop a great place to meet Matilda, there is also a wonderful park for the family to enjoy before stocking up on the essentials at the local eatery and petrol station.

Afternoon: The Ginger Factory is the home of Buderim Ginger and has been delighting visitors for over 40 years. This nine-hectare property has plenty for you to see and explore. For those wanting a treat there are plenty of options available, and with a gift shop on site you can stick up on ginger goodies before you leave.

Evening: Why not stop in at Australia’s biggest Castle, the Sunshine Castle offers a self-guided medieval tour and treasure hunt, doll museum and onsite café. A great quick stop to end off the day.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION:Maroochydore Beach Holiday Park, 1 Melrose Parade, Maroochydore QLD 4558. Powered Site.

Image: The Ginger Factory – Tourism Queensland

Morning/Afternoon: Aussie world is a small theme park that offers family fun for all ages. It is a wonderful destination for laughter, adventure and making memories. There are thrilling rides, water-fuelled fun and family favourites. This park makes a welcome alternative to the big theme parks, with minimal wait times and a choice of café or pub style dining, there is something for everyone. As there is so much to see, why not make this a full day out!

Evening: The South Bank Parklands, located on the banks of the Brisbane River, are a mixture of rainforest, grassed areas and plazas. You can enjoy a swim at the famous Streets Beach or relax on the lawns all while enjoying unrivalled city skyline views. There are dozens of eateries within the precinct to indulge in some local fare.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: El Encanto, 555 Tarragindi Road, Salisbury QLD 4107. Powered Site.

Image: The Banana Bender Pub at Aussie World – Tourism Queensland

Morning: You can step out of the hustle and bustle at the Karawatha Forest Discovery Centre, the gateway to one of the largest natural bushland reserves in Brisbane. The surrounding reserve has plenty of walking tracks to enjoy and the centre itself offers something for everyone, adults and children alike.

Afternoon:  The Beenleigh Historical Village and Museum will take you back in time to yesteryear. This unique collection of heritage memorabilia features items that have been lovingly restored and preserved displayed throughout the 20 heritage buildings that make up the village.

Evening: This evening is the perfect time to enjoy dinner with a show at the Australian Outback Spectacular. The live performance features amazing displays of stockmanship, stunning special effects and has a powerful story of life on the land. You can relax and enjoy the show while a hearty three-course Australian meal is served.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Broadwater Tourist Park, 169 Marine Parade, Southport QLD 4215. Powered Site.

Image: Australian Outback Spectacular – Tourism Queensland

Morning: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is Queensland’s most iconic wildlife experience. The heritage listed zoological garden was built in 1947 and is home to some of Australia’s amazing native animals alongside family favourites including capybaras, lemurs and llamas. You can stay for lunch at The Homestead and even cool off in the splash zone.

Afternoon: We are now entering NSW and the coastal town of Brunswick Heads, where it’s time to enjoy the simple pleasures. The north bank of the Brunswick River hosts a protected rainforest, and the small community has ensured that there are plenty of cafes and specialty shops for you to engage in a little bit of retail therapy.

Evening: The Cape Byron lighthouse is located on Australia’s most easterly point and is a wonderful spot to stop and see the scenery, learn about shipwrecks of the past and maybe even book a private guided tour before settling back to enjoy a quiet night in your motorhome.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: First Sun Holiday Park, Lawson Street, Byron Bay NSW 2481. Powered Site.

Image: Cape Byron – Tourism New South Wales

Morning: The Broadwater National Park is a great place to have a picnic, go on a hike, or even look out for the native birds and local whales. There are also several shorter walks that lead to some beaches that feature examples of large sand dunes formed in the ice ages over 60,000 years ago.

Afternoon: The Big Banana Fun Park is Australia’s original, and possibly the most iconic, fun park. For the thrill seekers there is the toboggin ride, Australia’s largest indoor slide and even bumper cars. If you prefer a more relaxed vibe there is the fun zone, a tour of the banana plantation and a candy kitchen that has live demonstrations daily.

Evening: The North Coast Regional Botanic Garden blends a unique range of discovery walks among natural forests and curated garden areas including Australian natives, rainforests, a sensory garden as well as ponds and lakes. With resting seats and picnic spots dotted throughout it is a wonderful spot to wind down.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: BIG4 Park Beach Holiday Park, 1 Ocean Parade, Coffs harbour NSW 2450. Powered Site.

Image: Cruisin Motorhomes’ 2 Berth Sandpiper

Morning: Start your day with a nice home made breakfast in your motorhome kitchen, then make your way to the Coffs Harbour Butterfly House. Home to not only hundreds of live Australian Butterflies, it is a wonderland to experience. With a maze, dinosaur meet-and-greets, and even some resident fairies – everyone will love it!

Afternoon: The Kempsey Museum showcases a history of the Macleay Valley from before settlement to the present day. Including a pioneer cottage that has been furnished using historical items. With displays including boot making, historical vehicles and telecommunications, there is something for all history enthusiasts.

Evening: If you enjoy puzzles riddles and consider yourself a sleuth, then the Façade Escape Room is for you. Engage in this live action-adventure game where all the clues you need are hidden in the room.  You will piece together all the clues to solve the mystery within the set time frame.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Flynns Beach Caravan Park, 22 Ocean Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444. Powered Site.

Image: Coffs Harbour Butterfly House – Tourism New South Wales

Morning: Located next to the Kew Visitor Information Centre, The Big Axe is one of those little gems of a photo op that is dotted throughout Australia. The original axe was built in 1979 but was replaced in 2002 due to damage.

Afternoon: The Big Buzz Fun Park is 25 acres of fun and adventure, featuring something for all ages. There is a toboggan run, water slides, karts, tennis courts and so much more. The park has plenty of undercover seating and free gas barbeques that are perfect for a family meal.

Evening: The Seal Rocks walk doesn’t disappoint when it comes to views of the coast and sweeping headlands. Travelling through the dense rainforest leads you to a perfect picture opportunity off the coast with impressive views of the Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse, so make sure you bring your camera.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Reflections Seal Rocks – Holiday Park, Kinka Road, Seal Rocks NSW 2423. Powered Site.

Image: Cruisin Motorhomes’ 6 Berth Deluxe

Morning: With plenty of amenities to start your day Wade Park in Bulahdelah is a great place to stop and recharge before starting your day. The playground is great for the kids, and the barbeques and picnic tables make a great place to stop for a mid-morning meal, or late breakfast depending on your preferences.

Afternoon: The Newcastle Museum opened in 1988 inside the old Castlemaine Brewery, before relocating to the former Honeysuckle Railway Workshops (it’s current home) in 2011. With exhibitions ranging from science to indigenous history and Newcastle history, there is something for everyone within the Newcastle Museum to delight everyone.

Evening: Fort Scratchley was in operation from 1882 to 1972, and after a multimillion-dollar renovation the fort was reborn into a museum which opened to the public in 2009. Take a tour hosted by one of the forts knowledgeable volunteers from the Fort Scratchley Historical Society to find out all about the history of the fort.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: NRMS Stockton Beach Holiday Park, 3 Pitt Street, Stockton NSW 2295. Powered Site.

Image: Newcastle Museum – Tourism New South Wales

Morning: A morning along the beachfront is perfect for getting your daily dose of fresh air. This beach on the Swansea peninsula is named for the network of sea caves that are situated at its southern end. Accessible only at low tide, the sea caves are astounding to explore, especially for children. Just ensure that you check the timing of the tides before you visit to ensure that you can safely visit the caves.

Afternoon: The Strickland State Forest is a small day-use forest with a magnificent array of flora and fauna, from wildflowers to impressive eucalypts and dense rainforest. With picnic facilities available the Strictland State Forest is the perfect place to explore the volunteer-maintained pathways and have a tranquil afternoon lunch.

Evening: Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary is a sanctuary dedicated to providing a safe home for rescued wildlife. The residents can move freely throughout the habitat, meaning that you can walk with kangaroos, wallabies and emus. Pay a visit to some of the other iconic residents including wombats and Tasmanian Devils. The funds raised through the admission fee helps to fund the conservation work of the sanctuary, so it is well worth a visit.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Glenworth Valley Campground, 69 Cooks Road, Glenworth Valley NSW 2250. Powered Site.

Image: Sea Cave at Caves beach – Tourism New South Wales

Morning: The Australian Reptile Park has over 50 species on display; this hands-on interactive zoo gives visitors the chance to interact with Australia’s native animals and watch captivating wildlife shows. If spiders and snakes are not your cup of tea, there are other animal encounters for you to enjoy, including wombats, kangaroos, echidnas, and koalas

Afternoon: To continue your adventure into the native species of Australia, visit the Kalkari Discovery Centre, where you can walk the centre’s discovery trail to learn about native species, indigenous history and engage with the range of activities for both adults and children.

Evening: Any trip to New South Wales would not be complete without a visit to one of Australia’s most famous beaches. Bondi Beach is one of the most visited tourist sites in Australia and is a 1-kilometre-long stretch of south facing sand leading into the iconic waters. If you do decide to take a dip always observe the red and yellow flags that denote a safe swimming area, otherwise you may end up in one of the beaches infamous rips.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Discovery Parks – Lane Cove, 13 Plassey Road, Macquarie park NSW 2113. Powered Site.

Image: Bondi Beach – Tourism New South Wales

Morning: Located in the heart of Sydney is a hub of science, culture and nature – the Australian Museum. With free general entry the museum prides itself on its commitment to conservation and education. You can explore the museum at your own pace using their free online audio and Auslan tours. Once you have seen everything that Australia’s oldest museum has to offer grab a bite at once of the three eateries located on-site.

Afternoon: One of the most famous buildings in the world is the Sydney Opera House. With it’s distinctive sails the Opera House dominates the Sydney Waterfront. So why not visit the iconic venue yourself. The Opera House tours available, that vary on what you will get the see daily depending on what is happening at the venue. Just make sure that you leave enough time to get back to the Cruisin’ depot by 3:30pm to return your motorhome.