Cairns to Brisbane by Motorhome on a 19-day Road Trip

Morning: Begin your motorhome adventure in Cairns, collecting your vehicle and stocking up on groceries and supplies before heading inland. Cairns is the best place to do a full shop, fuel up, and grab any last-minute essentials. Head south-west via the Gillies Range Road, taking your time on the winding road, stopping at lookouts along the way to enjoy sweeping rainforest and coastal views.

Afternoon:  Arrive in the Atherton Tablelands early afternoon. This cool-climate region is known for its rolling farmland, volcanic landscapes, and waterfalls. Spend the afternoon exploring nearby highlights like Lake Barrine or Lake Eacham, or the Yungaburra village.

Evening: Check into your campsite and enjoy a quiet evening surrounded by nature. Cook dinner at camp or visit a local pub or café in Atherton or Yungaburra. Temperatures are cooler than Cairns, perfect for sleeping and stargazing.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Atherton Holiday Park, 64-72 Mountain View Dr, Atherton QLD 4883. Powered site.

Image: Atherton Tableland, Lake Eacham, Tourism and Events Queensland

Morning: Depart the Atherton Tablelands after breakfast, travelling south through fertile farmland and pockets of rainforest toward Millstream Falls. Take a short walk to the viewing platforms overlooking one of Australia’s widest waterfalls.

Afternoon:  Continue south to Tully Falls, located within Tully Gorge National Park. Stop here for lunch and enjoy views over the dramatic gorge surrounded by dense rainforest. From Tully Falls, head toward the coast, with the landscape gradually opening up as you approach Mission Beach.

Evening: Arrive at Mission Beach mid to late afternoon. Check into your campsite and enjoy a relaxing evening by the ocean. Take a walk along the palm-lined beach, keep an eye out for cassowaries, or enjoy dinner at camp or one of the local beachfront cafés as the sun sets.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Mission Beach Hideaway Holiday Village, 36 Porter Promenade, Mission Beach QLD 4852. Powered site.

Image: Millstream Falls

Morning: Depart Mission Beach in the morning and head south toward Wallaman Falls, travelling inland through lush rainforest and rural landscapes. Arrive at Wallaman Falls and walk to the lookout for views of Australia’s tallest single-drop waterfall. You can climb down to the pool for a fresh dip (note that this will be a steep climb back).

Afternoon:  Enjoy lunch surrounded by rainforest before beginning the drive toward Townsville, descending from the ranges back to the coast. Arrive late afternoon or early evening.

Evening: Check into your campsite and enjoy a relaxed evening. Stroll along The Strand, enjoy a waterfront dinner, or simply unwind at camp after a scenic day of driving.

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

Image: Wallaman Falls

Morning: Start the day early in Townsville and drive to the Breakwater Ferry Terminal, where you can leave your motorhome parked for the day. Secure long-stay parking is available near the terminal and is suitable for larger vehicles and motorhomes. Once parked, walk to the terminal and aboard the ferry to Magnetic Island, with the crossing taking approximately 20 minutes.

Afternoon: Arrive on Magnetic Island and spend the day exploring its beautiful beaches, walking trails, and bays. Popular options include relaxing at Horseshoe Bay, swimming at Alma Bay, or taking a short walk to scenic lookouts. We recommend doing the Forts Walk, where you can spot koalas in the wild.

Evening: Return to Townsville by ferry in the late afternoon or early evening. Collect your motorhome and head back to your campsite. Enjoy a relaxed evening, perhaps with a sunset walk along The Strand or dinner at camp after a full day out.

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

Image: Magnetic Island, Alma Bay kayak, Tourism and Events Queensland

Morning: Depart Townsville in the morning and begin the coastal drive south toward Airlie Beach. The route passes through small towns and open countryside, with opportunities to stop for a coffee or rest break along the way. This is a comfortable driving day with mostly flat, easy roads for motorhome travel.

Afternoon:  Arrive in Airlie Beach early to mid-afternoon. Check into your campsite and spend some time exploring the lively town centre. Take a walk along the Airlie Beach Lagoon, browse local shops, or relax by the waterfront before the evening crowds arrive.

Evening: Enjoy a relaxed evening in Airlie Beach. Choose from a wide range of restaurants and cafés or cook dinner at camp. This is a great night to unwind and prepare for upcoming Whitsundays activities over the next few days.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: NRMA Airlie Beach Holiday Park, 234 Shute Harbour Rd, Cannonvale QLD 4802.

Tip: Take the public transport to the city centre, it’s only a 7-minute ride and you can leave your motorhome at the caravan park!

Image: Airlie Beach Foreshore, Tourism and Events Queensland

All day: Start the day early in Airlie Beach and make your way to the marina for a full-day Whitsundays cruise. Most tours depart in the morning and include transfers from the town centre. Board your vessel and cruise through the Whitsunday Islands, enjoying morning tea as you take in the turquoise waters and island scenery.

Visit highlights such as Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet, with time to swim, snorkel, and relax on the pristine silica sand. Lunch is typically included on board, allowing you to make the most of your time on the water without returning to the mainland early.

Return to Airlie Beach in the late afternoon. Head back to your campsite for a relaxed evening or enjoy a casual dinner in town after a full day of activities. An early night is recommended after a big day out on the water.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: NRMA Airlie Beach Holiday Park, 234 Shute Harbour Rd, Cannonvale QLD 4802.

Image: Whitehaven Beach, Tourism and Events Queensland

Morning: Enjoy a relaxed morning in Airlie Beach after the previous day’s cruise. Sleep in, enjoy breakfast by the water, or take a gentle walk along the foreshore. For those wanting a special experience, this morning is ideal for an optional scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands, offering aerial views of Heart Reef, Whitehaven Beach, and the surrounding coral lagoons.

Afternoon:  Spend the afternoon at your own pace. Options include relaxing by the Airlie Beach Lagoon, visiting nearby beaches, browsing local shops, or enjoying a long lunch in town. This free day allows time to recharge before continuing the journey south.

Evening: Enjoy another relaxed evening in Airlie Beach. Dine at one of the many restaurants and bars, or return to your campsite for a quiet night. Take the opportunity to prepare for the next travel day.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: NRMA Airlie Beach Holiday Park, 234 Shute Harbour Rd, Cannonvale QLD 4802.

Tip: Make sure you plug the vehicle to main power overnight to ensure full battery charge for the next night (unpowered)!

Image: Scenic Flight over the Great Barrier Reef

Morning: Depart Airlie Beach early in the morning and travel south toward Finch Hatton Gorge, driving through cane fields and open countryside (less than 2 hours). Stretch your legs with a short walk to the gorge, cool off in the freshwater pools, or enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by lush scenery.

Afternoon: Leave Finch Hatton Gorge early afternoon and continue south toward Rockhampton. The drive is mostly straightforward highway travel, making for an easy afternoon behind the wheel. Play your favourite music in your motorhome and sing along!

Evening: Arrive in Rockhampton and check into your campsite. Enjoy a relaxed evening, either dining out in town or cooking dinner at camp. Take a short walk through the beautiful Kershaw Gardens.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Kershaw Gardens Free Campground, Cnr Moores Creek Road and High Street Entrance via, High St, Park Avenue QLD 4701. Unpowered site.

Note: As you won’t be plugged into main power, the 240v appliance won’t work (microwave, AC/Heating system and power outlets).

Image: Wheel of Fire, Finch Hatton Gorge area

Morning: After a delicious breakfast in your motorhome, head south along the Bruce Highway before turning off toward Agnes Water and Town of 1770 (about 3-hour drive). The drive passes through quiet coastal countryside and national park fringes, offering a change from highway travel.

Afternoon: Spend time exploring this relaxed coastal area. Enjoy lunch by the water, take a walk along Agnes Water Beach, or visit the lookout at 1770 for views across the Coral Sea. Look out for whales between June and September! After your visit, continue south toward Hervey Bay, arriving late afternoon (about 3-hour drive).

Evening: Enjoy a relaxed evening, cook a nice dinner, watch a movie or play cards.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Hervey Bay Caravan Park, 85 Margaret St, Hervey Bay QLD 4655. Powered site.

Image: Town of 1770, Tourism and Events Queensland/Katrina Elliott

All day: Start the day early in Hervey Bay and make your way to the tour departure point for your Fraser Island (K’gari) day trip. Most tours include transfers from central Hervey Bay locations. Board the ferry and travel across to the world’s largest sand island, known for its beaches, rainforests, and freshwater lakes.

Spend the day exploring Fraser Island’s highlights, typically including 75 Mile Beach, Lake McKenzie, and rainforest tracks at Central Station. Enjoy lunch as part of the tour while learning about the island’s unique ecology and history from your guide.

Return to Hervey Bay late afternoon or early evening. Head back to your campsite and enjoy a relaxed evening after a full day of adventure, or dine out along the waterfront.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Hervey Bay Caravan Park, 85 Margaret St, Hervey Bay QLD 4655. Powered site.

Image: K’gari Explorer Tours, Tourism and Events Queensland

All day: Start the day early in Hervey Bay and make your way to the marina for your swim with whales tour. After a safety briefing and equipment fitting, board the vessel and head out into the sheltered waters of Hervey Bay, one of the best places in Australia to encounter humpback whales during the migration season (July to November).

Spend the afternoon on the water observing and, conditions permitting, swimming with humpback whales under the guidance of experienced crew. Lunch is typically provided on board, allowing you to enjoy the experience without returning to shore early.

Return to Hervey Bay late afternoon. Head back to your campsite and enjoy a relaxed evening after a memorable day. A quiet night is recommended after a full day at sea or enjoy a casual dinner along the waterfront.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Hervey Bay Caravan Park, 85 Margaret St, Hervey Bay QLD 4655. Powered site.

Image: Swim with whales, Hervey Bay, Tourism and Events Queensland/Mark Fitz

Morning: Enjoy a slow and relaxed morning in Hervey Bay after the previous day’s whale experience. Take a walk along the waterfront, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, or simply rest before continuing the journey south. Depart late morning once you’re ready to travel.

Afternoon:  Arrive in Noosa early afternoon and check into your campsite. Spend the afternoon exploring Noosa Heads, strolling along Hastings Street. Alternatively, relax by the river or beach.

Evening: Enjoy the evening in Noosa, known for its vibrant dining scene and relaxed coastal atmosphere. Choose from riverside restaurants, beachfront cafés, or enjoy a quiet dinner at camp.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Noosa River Holiday Park, 4 Russell St, Noosaville QLD 4566. Powered site.

Tip: Leave your motorhome at the campsite and hop on the public transport! It’s only 5 minutes away from the caravan park and a 6-minute ride to the centre.

Image: Hasting Street, Noosa Heads, Tourism and Events Queensland

Morning: Hop on the public transport to the centre and start exploring Noosa National Park. Begin walking along the Coastal Track, passing scenic headlands and beaches. Stop at Dolphin Point for ocean views and the chance to spot dolphins, turtles, and migrating whales (seasonal), before continuing to Hell’s Gates, the northernmost lookout in the park.

Afternoon:  Continue along the Coastal Track to Alexandria Bay, a secluded and unpatrolled beach surrounded by sand dunes and bushland. After time to rest and enjoy lunch, begin the inland return via Tanglewood Track, which winds through open forest and sandy tracks. Connect onto the Noosa Hill Track, climbing gently back toward the main park entrance and Noosa Heads.

Evening: Enjoy a well-earned relaxed evening – a swim, sunset drink, or dinner in town after a full day of walking! This is a great night to stay local and unwind.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Noosa River Holiday Park, 4 Russell St, Noosaville QLD 4566. Powered site.

Note: Total walking distance is between 10-11kms (about 2,5 hours). Carry water and sunscreen. Check tide and weather conditions.

Image: Tea Tree Bay, Noosa National Park, Tourism and Events Queensland/Tourism Australia

Morning: Depart Noosa mid-morning and head south toward Yandina for your first stop at The Ginger Factory. Enjoy a relaxed visit, with time for morning tea, browsing the shop, or a short walk around the gardens before continuing the journey.

Afternoon:  Continue on to The Big Pineapple for photos and a brief stop, then head to Amaze World for a fun and interactive experience, featuring hedge mazes, puzzles, and gardens. Enjoy lunch at one of the nearby cafés before driving on to Maroochydore.

Evening: Check into your campsite and spend the evening enjoying the beachfront location, taking a sunset walk along the sand, or relaxing at camp after a light travel day.

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

Image: The Ginger Factory, Tourism and Events Queensland

Morning: Depart Maroochydore in the morning and head south toward the Glass House Mountains Lookout. Stop to enjoy panoramic views across the iconic volcanic peaks – a great photo opportunity and an easy break early in the drive.

Afternoon:  Continue south to Caboolture Historical Village, arriving late morning or early afternoon. Spend time exploring the restored historic buildings, museums, and displays that showcase early Queensland life. Enjoy lunch at the village café or nearby before continuing the journey south toward the Gold Coast.

Evening: Arrive at the Gold Coast late afternoon and check into your campsite. Spend the evening relaxing by the Broadwater, enjoying a waterfront walk, or dining out nearby after a full but varied travel day.

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

Image: Glass House Mountains Lookout, Tourism and Events Queensland/Jesse Lindemann

Morning: Enjoy a slow morning at the Gold Coast, with breakfast at camp or along the waterfront. Head into Surfers Paradise mid-morning to enjoy the beach, take a swim, or simply relax on the sand and soak up the coastal atmosphere.

Afternoon:  Spend the afternoon exploring Surfers Paradise, with time for shopping, cafés, and beachfront dining. Options include walking along the foreshore, visiting the observation deck at SkyPoint, or enjoying a long lunch overlooking the ocean.

Evening: Enjoy a relaxed final evening on the Gold Coast, with dinner at camp or at one of the nearby restaurants and take a sunset walk along the Broadwater.

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

Tip: Jump on the public transport to save you driving down and park the motorhome! It’s only a short 40-minute ride to Surfers Paradise!

Image: Surfers Paradise Beach, Tourism and Events Queensland

Morning: Depart the Gold Coast mid-morning and travel north toward Sirromet Winery in the Mt Cotton region. Enjoy a relaxed stop with time for tastings, a walk through the vineyard, or lunch at the on-site restaurant before continuing on.

Afternoon:  Drive on to Mount Coot-tha Lookout and take in sweeping views across Brisbane, the Brisbane River, and surrounding suburbs. After your stop at the lookout, continue north to check into your campsite. Arrive at Brisbane North Holiday Stays late afternoon and settle in. From there, take public transport into the city (nearby bus services provide easy access to Brisbane CBD and South Bank).

Evening: Spend the evening exploring South Bank’s riverside precinct, enjoying dinner, riverside walks, or a visit to Streets Beach before returning to camp later in the evening. You can easily order a Taxi/Uber if bus have stopped for the day.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Brisbane North Holiday Stays, 1432 Gympie Rd, Aspley QLD 4034. Powered site.

Image: Sirromet Winery, Sam Lindsay/Tourism and Events Queensland

All day: Start the day early and drive to the the Rivergate Marina, where secure long-stay parking is available for motorhomes. Park your vehicle and check in with See Moreton for your full-day Moreton Island tour. Board the ferry and enjoy the scenic crossing to the island.

Spend the day exploring Moreton Island, with See Moreton tours typically including highlights such as snorkelling at the Tangalooma Wrecks, sand tobogganing on the dunes, swimming, and beach time. Lunch is usually included as part of the tour, allowing you to relax and enjoy the island experience.

Return to the mainland by ferry late afternoon or early evening. Collect your motorhome and drive back to Brisbane North Holiday Stays. Enjoy a relaxed final evening at camp, reflecting on your journey from Cairns to Brisbane.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Brisbane North Holiday Stays, 1432 Gympie Rd, Aspley QLD 4034. Powered site.

Image: Tangalooma Wrecks, Moreton Island

Morning: Enjoy a slow final morning in your motorhome, allowing time to pack up and have breakfast at camp. Depart late morning and drive to the Cruisin Motorhomes Brisbane branch to return your vehicle and complete the drop-off process by 3:30 pm.

After drop-off, spend your final afternoon exploring Brisbane. Head into the city to enjoy a riverside walk, visit South Bank if you didn’t the previous evening, or relax at a café along the Brisbane River. This is a great opportunity for last-minute shopping or sightseeing before departure.

Image: Brisbane views from your Cruisin’ Motorhome