How to road trip to see whales from Brisbane

Craving a little family time and big adventures? Step outside the ordinary and discover South East Queensland’s wild beaches – and wildlife – on this short and sweet road trip from Brisbane to Hervey Bay.

If you’ve ever wanted to witness the Australian east coast’s humpback whale migration, a few days travelling up the Queensland coast is all you need. 

Day 1: Brisbane to Rainbow Beach

Hit the road nice and early: it’s time to put one of Queensland’s best beaches in your sights. Rainbow Beach lies at the pointy, northern end of the Sunshine Coast – a little further off the radar of day trippers.

This beach town holds that rare, nostalgic feel that’ll remind you of beach holidays when you were young – something special to share with your own family. A main drag with corner stores, milk bars and fish and chip shops, a bustling SLSC that feels like the heart of the community, and miles of golden sands to enjoy.

Throw out the beach towels and get in true holiday mode beside the striking colourful sand dunes, or get exploring. There’s plenty to keep the kids’ energy – and sense of adventure – at bay with surf lessons, horse rides on the beach, and even ocean kayak tours where you’ll probably spot dolphin pods at play.

Don’t miss the chance to take in the views from Carlo Sand Blow – an otherworldly landscape with some of the best views across Great Sandy National Park. Prepare to get sandy.

Overnight: Rainbow Sea Resort or Plantation Resort

Day 2: Rainbow Beach to Hervey Bay via Maryborough

Prepare your playlists for an easy drive today to the Fraser Coast, with a few quirky stops along the way that’ll have the kids’ imaginations run wild. And probably yours, too.

An hour in, stretch your legs in historic Maryborough – home of Mary Poppins author P.L. Travers. A visit to The Story Bank is a must. A museum where fantasy and fact intertwine, discover art exhibitions and displays that share Travers’ connection with the area, retell her stories and iconic characters, then also delve deeper into local history with our earliest storytellers, the Butchulla people. You’ll all learn a thing or two, and come away with some great photos for that next Christmas card.

If you’re passing through on a Thursday, you could even take a historic ride on the Mary Ann Steam Train.

Jump back in the car for a short 30 minute drive to Hervey Bay. Stop for lunch and a stretch around Arkarra Lagoons and Tea Gardens, the homemade sweet treats and locally roasted coffee will fuel the afternoon ahead.

When the sun’s shining, there’s nowhere better to be than Wetside, a water park along Hervey Bay’s foreshore that’s home to waterslides, fountains, tipping bucket and even a special under-fives area. Nearby you’ll also find an all abilities playground, and parents in need of a pick me up can grab a coffee from Bean Beat nearby. Older kids might be more interested in renting kayaks or SUPs from Aquaview and paddling the calm waters.

Come sunset, Enzo’s on the Beach is the place to be. There’s happy hour from 3-6pm, a dedicated kids menu, small plates plus more substantial meals with lots of vegan options.

Overnight: Choose your style from self-contained cabins in holiday parks to resorts.

Day 3: Whale watching in Hervey Bay

Hervey Bay is a beach town that’ll steal your heart with more than its good looks. Its residents – both those serving incredible breakfasts at cafes and of the larger migrating kind – make it a magical spot to spend a day or two.

In fact, Hervey Bay is so special it became the world’s first World Whale Heritage Site, a recognition awarded for the region’s commitment to conservation and protection. There’s simply no better place to get up close and personal with humpback whales and watch their incredible annual tradition of venturing to these calm waters to nurse their calves and play.

There’s so many opportunities for whale watching in Hervey Bay that it all comes down to your preference. From half-day trips to full day eco-sailing adventures, to budget options or even the chance to swim with whales, find out which whale watching boat is for you here.

Tonight, grab an ice cream and take a stroll along Urangan Pier for sunset, then tuck into a decadent burger from Badger & Brown’s (there’s special burgers for kids too).

For a truly memorable experience, visit during the annual Whale Festival. If you hang around Hervey Bay a little longer, check out these day trip ideas or settle in for a week.

Overnight: Return to your chosen Hervey Bay accommodation.

Day 4: Return to Brisbane

Get the car games ready: it’s a longer drive 3-4 hour drive south back to Brisbane, but that doesn’t mean the fun is over.

If your whale encounters inspire more wildlife experiences, take your pit stop at Australia Zoo to learn and meet animals from Australia and around the world, and watch the thrilling croc-show.

For something different, get the adrenalin pumping on the rides at Aussie World or get lost and solve the puzzles, twists and turns of Amaze World.

Of course, you can always take the opportunity for a little more beach time: Noosa and Mooloolaba are easy detours from the highway for one last fish and chips with your toes in the sand.  

Have a little more time?

Extend your road trip from Brisbane to Hervey Bay and add discovering the world’s largest sand island to your photo album.

K’gari (Fraser Island) is just off the coast from Hervey Bay – taking around 30 minutes on the car ferry - but retains wild, untouched landscapes that make you feel totally immersed in nature. Whether you bunk in style at Kingfisher Bay Resort or sign up for a multi-day 4WD family escape with K'gari Fraser Island Adventures, exploring this island is an experience the whole family will remember. Use this guide to help plan your trip.