Take in the beach, city and reef on this 5 day south east Queensland road trip

Day 1: Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is firmly planted on the list of favourite Queensland holiday destinations for its, well, golden coast: 57km of beaches that stretch from Southport all the way to quiet Coolangatta on the New South Wales border. But you’ll find a little bit of everything down here, from beachfront markets to local breweries, wineries and distilleries, cafes that draw a crowd daily, hinterland hikes to escape to, decadent dinners and glamorous nightlife.

To kick off your five day road trip, mix a little thrills with beach time. This morning, choose between a surf lesson in Surfers Paradise, a jet boat ride to see the sights at speed, or take it all in from above on the Skypoint Climb.

After lunch, clock up some time on the sand. Explore like a local and wander the hiking trail through Burleigh Head National Park to the quiet side of Tallebudgera Creek for a swim in some of our clearest waters off Echo Beach. Make your way back in time to catch sunset from Burleigh Hill, then top it off with a sundowner at a rooftop bar and dinner at one of the coast’s best restaurants.

Overnight: Stay in the heart of the action at designer-hotel QT, settle into a Burleigh Heads apartment, or consult this list of places to stay.

Day 2: Brisbane 

Fuel up then hit the road: it’s just a one hour drive north to Brisbane to spend the day soaking up culture in our capital. Known for its relaxed pace, this is one city that will keep you in holiday mode.

Start in South Bank, and let your inner artist guide you through the QAGOMA exhibitions that catch your eye, or sign up for a new perspective on a tour with BlackCard that takes in the gallery and public art spaces, sharing Indigenous interpretations and the history of First Nations people in Meanjin.

After exploring the gardens and riverside around South Bank (and perhaps wandering down Fish Lane for a bite to eat), jump on the free CityHopper ferry and hightail it over towards Howard Smith Wharves. This waterfront precinct is home to a brewery, cocktail bars, and restaurants serving up cuisines from around the globe – and the sparkling city views will make you feel like you’re playing tourist while you kick back and relax with the locals.

Those feeling extra energetic might want to swap evening drinks by Story Bridge with a paddle under it instead. Riverlife runs twilight kayak tours Thursday to Sunday that end with a gourmet antipasti feast.   

Overnight: Choose a hotel in Brisbane City or Fortitude Valley to stay amongst the action. Newcomer Hotel X is making waves for all the right reasons, with its own rooftop bar, Iris.

Day 3: Lady Elliot Island

No need to get behind the wheel today: you’re boarding a carbon neutral flight to one of the most impressive islands in the Southern Great Barrier Reef (so says David Attenborough, anyway).

Lady Elliot Island is Queensland’s most remarkable eco-resort, achieving 100% sustainable status; but it’s what you can see and do here that makes it even more special. Home to turtles, manta rays, thousands of tropical fish and thriving coral reef, you’ll want to spend most of your day in the water. Dive, snorkel and swim, take a glass-bottom boat tour, then wander around to explore the island.

A visit to Lady Elliot can be done as a day trip with return flights that will give you five action-packed hours on the island. Then, head back into the city to delve into its finest, from restaurants to live music.

Or, why not stay the night? Settle into the eco-accommodation, get ready to witness a truly special sunset, and a little more island time tomorrow.

Overnight: Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort or your Brisbane city accommodation.

Day 4: Brisbane to Sunshine Coast

Spent the night on the reef? Get back in the water and meet as many marine friends as you can before the 2:30pm flight back to Brisbane. Then jump in the car – you’re heading north to the Sunshine Coast, about 90-minutes’ drive.

Got the full day in Brisbane? Get to the heart of the city but exploring one of its many precincts. If you’re into good coffee and vintage stores, make a beeline for the restored weatherboard houses and workers cottages of Paddington, now converted into trendy cafes like Kettle & Tin. Once you’ve eaten, head to Latrobe and Givern Terraces where you’ll find vintage gems like Empire Revival – the best place to stumble upon one-of-a-kind treasures.

For a riverside farmers market, local boutiques and breakfast that’ll cure any big night out, make your way to West End. Morning After serves a legendary breakfast carbonara, and there’s plenty of unique stores to browse afterwards. 

Those waking with a spring in their step might also like to join the Brisbanites in an early morning hike to the summit of Mount Coot-tha: the views from the top stretch out across the city to Moreton Bay.

Once you’ve satisfied your city cravings, it’s time to head out on the highway to Mooloolaba, a gem on the Sunshine Coast. This sun-drenched beach town strikes an enticing balance between the relaxed getaway you recall from childhood holidays, whilst home to some big-city sensibilities like breweries, wine bars and upmarket restaurants. And with so much to do right here, it’s the perfect spot to base yourself for the rest of your five day road trip.

Hungry? Make tracks for cocktails and modern Asian street food at Rice Boi or one of the eateries along The Wharf.

Overnight: Breeze Mooloolaba, or take your pick.

Day 5: Mooloolaba

Start your day with crepes and paddock-to-plate goodness at one of the Sunshine Coast’s best breakfast spots, The Velo Project. Then, stroll your way along Mooloolaba Spit to Point Cartwright Lighthouse, and cool off with some beach time – or even stop by local galleries.

Spend the rest of your day experiencing one of Mooloolaba’s most iconic activities. Set sail with Saltwater Eco Tours for a fascinating afternoon that blends Indigenous culture, wildlife spotting and bush tucker. Pay a visit to Sea Life Aquarium, or lose your breath on one of Australia’s only swim with humpback whales experiences (seasonal).

End your day the way every beach trip should: takeaway fish and chips with your toes in the sand. The Good Bar, Blackflag Brewing or wine and live jazz at Frank and Lotti are all great kick-ons, and if you’ve got a little more time up your sleeve, delve into one of these charming day trips from the Sunshine Coast, from famous wildlife sanctuaries to one of the world’s only everglades systems.