7 day solo adventure from Brisbane through to Fraser Coast

Queensland is the perfect place to indulge your love of independent adventure. Not only is Queensland packed with sunny days, but enough activities to cater to budgets and interests of all shapes and sizes. When it comes to the southern end of Queensland, we’ll show you how to explore it within a week with this seven day itinerary from Brisbane, meandering your way from the capital, right up along the pristine beaches of the Sunshine Coast, finishing up amongst the rugged beauty of the Fraser Coast. You’ll be traversing Australia’s idyllic Nature Coast Drive the majority of the way, so put on your favourite playlist and roll the windows down – bucket list-worthy days await.

Day One - Brisbane

First stop on this seven day solo sojourn from Brisbane to the Fraser Coast is none other than the Queensland capital. A lengthy waterway winds itself straight through this metropolis - hence its nickname the River City. Hop on fast ferry the CityCat in the CBD, before making a pit-stop at South Bank’s cultural precinct to see QAGOMA (that’s Queensland Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art). Once you’ve had your mind blown by the incredible creations that adorn the walls there, head to New Farm Park for a picnic – a true green oasis in the heart of the city. Post lunch, be sure visit nearby Brisbane Powerhouse to catch a comedy show or theatre performance. As for Brisbane accommodation, explore the vibrant precinct of Fortitude Valley with The Calile on James Street and Crystalbrook Vincent in Howard Smith Wharves, the perfect place to rest your head. But budget-friendly options are also plentiful, with backpackers and mid-tier hotels nearby.

Day Two - Maleny

While the Sunshine Coast is famed for its supply of postcard-worthy beaches (which include Caloundra and surf haven Coolum), its neighbouring hinterland is just as tempting to explore. Maleny is the jewel in the crown of this luscious region, nestled among bushwalks and waterfalls, it’s a destination rich in breweries, cafes, and fromageries. Curb your hunger pangs with a feed at the Maleny Pub, which also boasts accommodation, or slightly further north you’ll find the Mapleton Tavern, a 112-year-old space which has just been revamped, with a menu overflowing in gastro-pub fare to match.

Day Three - Noosa

A visit to the resort town of Noosa is a non-negotiable when it comes to any voyage through the Sunshine Coast. The most famous resident of this region, Noosa may now be synonymous with fine dining, but it remains at its core a surf town with offerings to suit every kind of budget and solo traveller. Days here can be spent hiking through Noosa National Park, taking a dip at its many coves, or the iconic Noosa Main Beach, before window shopping along Hastings Street, where eateries and the famed Massimo’s Gelateria sits beside boutiques. When it comes to accommodation, if budget isn’t an issue stick to the beachfront – Netanya Noosa and Seahaven Noosa Beachfront Resort are seriously special. Or, if you’re trying to stay conservative with costs, check into the Noosa Heads YHA Hostel - the hostel sits within a historic Queenslander in the thick of town.

Day Four - Noosa Everglades and Boreen Point

Within easy reach of Noosa is the Noosa Everglades, one of only two everglades systems in the world which sits within the Cooloola region of the Great Sandy National Park. This wilderness wonderland is Queensland’s first UNESCO Biosphere, and the home of 40% of the nation’s bird species, making it a worthy destination on any seven day solo itinerary up the Queensland coast. The best way to explore its maze of waterways, especially solo, is with an eco tour. Everglades Eco Safari and Kanu Kapers are a duo of local operators who will help you paddle your way into the heart of this precinct. Post-paddle drop by the lakeside town of Boreen Point, a quaint community which plays host to the historic Apollonian Pub, a much-loved local watering hole.

Day Five - Rainbow Beach

Trekking deeper into the Great Sandy National Park you’ll find the coastal community of Rainbow Beach, a destination which owes its name to the vibrant coloured sands which encase the surrounding region. This is the place you can indulge your love of 4WD adventure, with neighbouring Double Island Point a haven of sand highways, perfect for offroad enthusiasts. You can even join the likes of Great Beach Drive 4WD Tours for a half day exploration of the region. But you don’t need four wheels to enjoy the dunes – get your calf burn on with a hike along local landmark the Carlo Sand Blow, you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable views along the coast. While it’s jaw-dropping any time of the day, sunset up here will give you goosebumps. BIG4 Breeze Holiday Park offers cabins just a short stroll to the beach or try hostel Pippies Beachhouse in the heart of town for something budget-friendly.

Day Six - Hervey Bay

Prepare to say G’day to the Fraser Coast! Today you will make your way to the world’s first whale heritage area, better known as Hervey Bay. There’s plenty to do both on land and at sea while you’re in this precinct. Stick to the shoreline, and meander your way along Hervey Bay’s Esplanade, grabbing a bite to eat and checking into local accommodation like Oaks Hervey Bay Resort and Spa. Though it’s of course the marine life that you’re really here to see - during whale watching season (that’s July through November) join Tasman Venture for a chance to get up close and personal with the giants of the deep.

Day Seven - K’Gari (Fraser Island)

The highlight of your trip on this seven day solo itinerary from Brisbane to the Fraser Coast may not lie on the mainland at all - K’Gari (Fraser Island) sits just offshore, accessible from Hervey Bay by a twice daily ferry. It’s combination of size and sheer beauty promises to impress - this is the world’s largest sand island after all. Along its 123 kilometre length you’ll find a gathering of bushwalking tracks, rainforests, beaches and freshwater swimming holes like Lake McKenzie and Eli Creek to attract your attention. K’gari is best explored by 4WD but you don’t need your own wheels - K’Gari Explorer Tours is considered one of the best local guides. If you do find a day alone here just doesn’t cut it, make yourself at home at Kingfisher Bay Resort for a more leisurely stint.