The ultimate Brisbane to Yeppoon road trip

If you’re craving a coastal adventure, we may have just the thing. This Brisbane to Yeppoon road trip is a 10 day journey up the Queensland coastline, from the capital right up through to the Southern Great Barrier Reef. That’s a week and a half immersing yourself among the Sunshine Coast, Fraser Coast, Bundaberg, and Gladstone, before your final destination of the Capricorn Coast, stopping in at the must-visit beaches, islands, reefs, and everything in between along the way.

Day 1: Sunshine Coast

Day one on this Brisbane to Yeppoon road trip sees you set sail from the Queensland capital of Brisbane, and mosey your way north two hours towards the idyllic Sunshine Coast.

It’s in the resort town of Noosa that you’ll spend the night - there’s Sofitel or Peppers Noosa or those travelling as a pair, or The Hastings Beach Houses come recommended if you’re a part of a group. But pre-sleep, spend the day exploring the natural beauty of the famous surf spot - take a dip at Little Cove Beach, and wander through Noosa National Park. Dining potential is just as plentiful - grab a bite to eat at local icons Bistro C, Sails, or the Noosa Surf Club.

Day 2: Fraser Coast

After an early morning swim at Noosa’s Main Beach and a walk along the boardwalk, it’s time to hit the road. Today’s destination is the world’s whale watching capital of Hervey Bay, a two-hour drive north. After lunch (or late brunch) at Dan & Steph’s, spend the afternoon out at sea getting up close and personal with the humpback whales which pass through during whale season, from July through to November. After a day’s explore, you can rest your weary limbs at the Oaks Resort & Spa Hervey Bay, perched on the esplanade.

Day 3: K'gari (Formerly Fraser Island)

Today sees you set sail for the World Heritage-listed K’gari, the world’s largest sand island at 123 kilometres. There’s so much to see and do around here, from the crystal waters of Lake McKenzie, to the Maheno Shipwreck, and the sand-based beach highway to let the 4WD loose. While you’re welcome to go your own way you may prefer to follow an expert around, embracing Tasman Venture’s Remote Fraser Island Day Tour or an overnight option with K’gari Explorer Tours.

Day 4: Bundaberg

Today’s drive on this Brisbane to Yeppoon road trip is lengthy - around four hours - so pack snacks accordingly. You’ll be making your way back to the mainland, and kicking on with your journey north, towards the sugar cane capital of Bundaberg.

With its most famous local creation being Bundaberg Rum, it would be a shame to miss out on a tour of the Bundaberg Distillery, where you can make your own specialty rum to take home if you’re so inclined. Kids in tow? Make for the strawberry fields of Tinaberries instead. Or the beautiful shores of Bundaberg’s most famous beaches, Mon Repos and Bargara Beach.

Day 5: Lady Musgrave Island

Today you’ll greet the Southern Great Barrier Reef with a visit to the picturesque Lady Musgrave Island. Join the Lady Musgrave Experience Day Trip to catch a glimpse of the coral cay’s best natural assets - departing Bundaberg you’ll be transported out to sea in less than two hours aboard a luxury 35 metre catamaran. Once you arrive you’ll be encouraged to spend the day your way, whether that’s snorkelling, swimming, or diving around Australia’s most famous coral attraction.

Day 6: Gladstone

Day six on this Brisbane to Yeppoon road trip will see you venture towards Gladstone. But it’s not here that you’ll base yourself, but instead the much-loved seaside towns (and neighbouring communities) of Agnes Water and 1770. Why not glamp at Agnes Water Beach Holidays or embrace the youthful vibes of Southern Cross Backpackers.

Famously the most northern Queensland destination at which you can surf, this place attracts wave chasers in their droves. If you’re not yet a surfer yourself, now may be the time to sort, with Lazy Lizard Surf School. Or keep to the shoreline instead, enjoying the coastal hike to Red Rock Beach. 

Day 7: Capricorn

Moving this Brisbane to Yeppoon road trip onwards will today see you arrive in Yeppoon. This waterside town neighbours Queensland’s beef capital of Rockhampton, but has plenty to offer in its own right. Spend the day getting to know this family-friendly place - stop for a swim at Yeppoon Lagoon on the foreshore, gazing at the eclectic collection of street art decorating the town, and visiting its growing population of eateries, from the casual Yogolicious Cafe to the suave Vue Wine Bar & Restaurant.

Day 8-10: Pumpkin Island

Nearing the end of this Brisbane to Yeppoon road trip, now is the time to kick back and relax. While you can choose to stay in Yeppoon and make day trips out to the surrounding islands, like Great Keppel, with Sail Capricornia, why not make the most of a chance to stay off-shore while you can. Rent one of the cluster of eco-friendly cabins available on Pumpkin Island, with just 34 guests at a time, seclusion here is guaranteed.