Road Trip – Gold Coast to the Whitsundays
Arro Jet Boat Experience & Surfers Paradise Transfer
1 Hour Jet Ski Safari
Gold Coast Jet Blast Jetboat Ride
Gold coast Kayaking & Snorkelling tour
PADI Open Water Course
Wave Break Island PADI Discover SCUBA Diving Tour
Things to do in Whitsunday Islands, Book Here
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Discover Scuba Diving – Day Tour
2-Tank Scuba Tour – Whitsunday Islands
A Whitsunday Islands Sail, SUP & Snorkel Day Tour
The Ultimate Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet Experience
Europa Private Charter (Agent Use ONLY) – Hamilton Island Depart
Rayglass Protector ‘Standard’ Private Charter (Max 8 Passengers)
HITING THE ROAD PART 2
Embarking on a road trip from the Gold Coast to the Whitsundays is an unforgettable adventure that showcases the stunning beauty of Queensland’s coastline. This journey takes you through picturesque landscapes, charming coastal towns, and breathtaking views that make every stop worthwhile.
From the Gold Coast to the Whitsundays
It’s time to leave the Gold Coast and head to the city of Brisbane. There is so much to see and do it may be tricky deciding what is best to invest your time in. This is where BBM comes in handy to guide you on the best possible road trip with all the details.
Riding in a camper up the East Coast From Brisbane to the Whitsundays is an easy to follow with lots of things to do and see. From Brisbane to Hervey Bay, where you will find the wonderful Fraser Island is not too far away, the drive is under 4 hours. However, when returning from Fraser Island, you may find the next leg a little too much to do in one stint. If there is more than one of you living ‘la vida loca camper life’, taking it in turns to drive a couple of hours in rotation will make the journey a little less strenuous. Just beware that Fraser Island is quite a jam packed few days with plenty to do, wildlife to see and lots of goon to be sampled. Therefore it is quite a nice idea to return from Fraser Island and use the amenities of the hostels around the area to have a chill out day. You are travelling and holidaying after all and this East Coast trip is a marathon not a sprint.
This is the second leg of the journey after seeing the southern side of the east coast starting with Byron Bay, through to the Gold Coast. With two of the major tours and activities taking place throughout this leg of the trip, this would suggest that this is going to be the part to break the bank. However, the fact that you spend a lot of your time away at sea or on the islands means that you have paid for your trip; there is not much to spend your dollar on (phew).
Queue the views, which you will carry with you for eternity. Many a breath-taking moment is to be had and there are also lots of people to meet to shar these moments with forever. Brisbane through to the Whitsundays is famous for a reason; it is a unique and very special part of Australia that is worth every cent and every last drop of road-tripping energy. Forget the city life when you leave Brisbane and head for the tropical paradise of Fraser Island and the Whitsundays. Believe BBM, you won’t be disappointed!
Things to do in Brisbane
Brisbane is one of the largest cities of Australia, home to over 2 million people and is the capital of Queensland state. This city doesn’t scream a holiday vibe but there is plenty to see and do whilst visiting along with a sub-tropical climate to really get you in the mood for a good time. Popular tourist and recreation areas in Brisbane include the South Bank Parklands, Roma Street Parkland, the City Botanic Gardens and the Brisbane Forest Park. The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary also opened its doors in 1927 and was the world’s first
and finest koala sanctuary for all of you animal lovers out there. This area is built for backpackers with many hostels and travel agents to get you about the place.
Discover Best Things to do in Queensland
Story Bridge Adventure Climb
If you want to feel at the heart of Brisbane with the vista of a glistening skyline and winding rive in front of you, the Bridge Climb is at the top of list when visiting this city. Learn more about the city than the residents as you are guided to the top of the bridge. Get your adrenaline pumping and feel free as a bird as you climb to the top or abseil back into the city scene below. Just remember that what goes up must come down and this is not exempt with the Adventure Climb where you can also abseil back down to the starting point and back to reality, gaining your climb certificate – perfect for bragging about down at the pub. There are group offers and Facebook promotions most of the year and so make sure you and your mates check it out before hand.
170 Main Street, Kangaroo Point, QLD 4169
1300 254 627
www.storybridgeadventureclimb.com.au
Riverlife Adventure Centre
Riverlife Adventure Centre gets nothing but rave reviews, but then with the diverse selection of activities and the low prices, you can immediately see why. Depending on when you want to visit, there are many different kinds of things to do but booking is usually essential. For example the $69 offer of ‘Paddles and Prawns’ will take you kayaking through the city for 1.5 hours, before venturing out for beers and prawns. There are also classes to learn traditional Aboriginal song and dance or to watch a performance on Saturday nights.
Naval Stores Lower River Terrace, Kangaroo Point, Brisbane, QLD 4169
(07) 3891 5766
www.riverlife.com.au
Castlemaine – Perkins XXXX Brewery Tour
Walking twenty minutes west of the Transit Centre will take you to the golden nectar heaven that is the Perkins XXXX Brewery Tour. Leave the camper at the hotel and wander through town without having to worry about having to drive back. Adult entry involves beer tastings and a grand tour of the brewery itself. If you plan to visit on the weekend, there is a great beer and barbeque day, which includes ale and a barbequed food – perfect.
185 Milton Road Milton QLD 4064
(07) 3361 7597
www.xxxx.com.au
Accommodation
Tinbilly
Tinbillys states that it is “Crazy, Cool, Comfortable & Convenient” standing only five minutes from Brisbane CBD and only a short walk from the sky link, it is the most convenient backpackers in town. Each room comes with air conditioning and lockers as standard and they even supply the rice and pasta to keep you pumped on your travels. For the budget traveler they have the Tin Bar and grill serving good food and drink at great prices. Dorms start at $20 and there are different rooms for the different traveler depending if you are ona budget or if you want to splash out.
466 George Street, Brisbane, QLD 4000
(07) 3238 5888
www.tinbilly.com
Bunk
This is the place to be if you want to meet a good crew and have some top nights out. Bunk has got it right when it comes to making sure visitors have a great time. On the edge of the city and close to China Town, Bunk is on the cheaper end of the scale at $18 per person, per night, and has a great travel desk to help you plan your next adventures.
11/21 Gipps Street, Fortitude Valley, QLD 4006
(07) 3257 3644
www.bunkbrisbane.com.au
Hotel Rendezvous
If you’re on a bit of a higher budget and fancy something a little more luxurious then Hotel Rendezvous is just the ticket. With individually styled rooms and 24-hour service, your camper could even be valeted in the free parking at the hotel whilst you relax. Perfect for a romantic get away in the deluxe rooms or go for the studio room if you want to keep things a little cheaper and share with a friend.
255 Ann Street, Brisbane, QLD 4000
(07) -3001 9888
www.rendezvoushotels.com/brisbaneanzacsquare/
Bars, Pubs and Clubs
Mick O’Malleys
Mick O’Malleys is Irish through and through. Good drinks, food and open mic nights a plenty with great promotions most days of the week. From Moroccan spiced burgers to rump steaks and daily fresh fish selections, you will find yourself at O’Malleys for every occasion without having to worry about spends. Live sport and a buzzing atmosphere, this place will give you a royal Irish welcome and make you never want to leave,
Wintergardens Centre Shop B1, 171-209 Queen Street, Brisbane QLD 4000
(07) 3211 9881
www.mickomalleys.com.au
Things to do in Hervey Bay
Hervey bay has always been a popular spot up the coast from Brisbane and is massively appealing due to the close proximity to Fraser Island and popular whale watching spots. Whale watching is a much sought after activity in Hervey Bay with Humpback whales migrating along the coast between April and October. Before the whales set off to the Antarctica, they use Hervey Bay to rest and build up some serious swimming energy. Hervey bay has a relaxing atmosphere and lots of accommodation for the huge traveler clan, which you will find chilling on the beach talking about their Fraser Island excitement or experience.
Accommodation
Friendly Hostel
Friendly Hostel doesn’t only just do what it says on the tin; this hostel is different to other hostels you will find along the coast. With smaller dorms and smaller prices, Friendly Hostel is a very popular spot for travelers of all shapes and sizes whilst on a road trip. For a three bed apartment which will house 8 people, the cost is $180 which is still cheaper than most hostels but it means you and your mates have a little privacy if you are getting fed up with splitting’ up to fit into the available dorm space. From Friendly, you can book tours to
Fraser Island, the Whitsundays, whale watching in the famous Hervey Bay and also a funny day out on electric scooters.
182 Torquay Rd, Pialba, QLD 4655
(07) 4124 4107
www.friendlyhostel.com.au/pages
Flashpackers Hostel
Everyone enjoys a little luxury and why not? This hostel provides free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and welcomes you with a party. Flashpackers even offer free food some evenings throughout the week, super comfy beds and courtesy buses to take you around the town. Flashpackers is affordable even for those on a budget, making it the top place in Hervey Bay for a major relaxation session before heading off to Fraser Island.
195 Torquay Terrace, Torquay, QLD 4655
(07) 4124 1366
www.flashpackersherveybay.com/
Bars, Pubs and Clubs
Hoolihans
Hoolies is the perfect hang out in Hervey Bay with a menu to cater for whatever you and your mates fancy after a day at the beach. If you’re feeling a little homesick and fancy a proper roast, not just on a Sunday, sink those gnashers into the slow roasted pork belly with a pure Irish pint!
382 Esplanade, Torquay, Hervey Bay, QLD 4655
(07) 4194 0099
www.hoolies.com.au
Coast
Coast is a great hang out for any meal of the day or if you fancy a glass of wine after a long day at the beach. They have live music on a Sunday where you can sit and enjoy the view, the sea breeze and taste some local cuisine. The food tastes fresh and healthy, the menu a really well thought out list of meals to suit any palette.
469 Charlton Esplanade, Hervey Bay, QLD 4655
(07) 4125 5454
www.coastherveybay.com.au
Things to do in Fraser Island
Fraser Island is a beautiful world heritage sight and the biggest sand island in the world covering 1840 km². Fraser Island is a huge highlight for many travelers whilst in Australia with an extensive selection of tours to choose from. From your hostel in Hervey Bay, you will head to the ferry port in your pimped four-wheel drive jeep. A short ferry ride later and you arrive at the Island and see the beautiful sands, trees and jungle as you drive through to the first stop. Humans have resided here for 5000 years and this island still has a
population of 360 people. The tour guide takes you through each and every part of the islands, where you will envisage shipwrecks, rivers, and quick sand and more than anything you will experience wild life such as wild dingoes. This island is unique and exciting, with views which will take your breath away, with history, which will blow your mind.
Most tours cost around the $400 mark for a 2night/3day tour of the island. This includes your four-wheel drive which you drive around the island yourself in groups of six with the guide being the leader. The first night you will
sleep under the stars in the set up camps on the island. After a second day of discovering, there are purpose built hostels in parts of the island for you and your mates to barbeque drink and sleep.
Related Posts; Fraser Island 4WD Tours and Fraser Island Adventure Tours
Palace Adventures & Accommodation
Usually taken on the tours in groups of around 25, the guide knows each and every part of the island like the back of his hand, making sure it is fun, yet educative for the teams that travel from point to point in the passion wagons. All tour companies for Fraser Island want you to enjoy every moment, but Palace Adventures seem to have the set up just right. You will see the shipwreck on the horizon as you drive through to the Indian head rock formations and back into the jungle, goose bumps will take over your body and the sights will feed your heart and soul. Palace Adventures have a great hostel for you to use before and after the trip, recently renovated and one night’s stay is free for those doing the two-night tour over at Fraser.
184 Torquay Road,Scarness QLD 4655
1800 063 168
www.palaceadventures.com.au
Things to do in Airlie Beach
Airlie Beach is a town in the Whitsundays region, better known as the gateway to paradise. If you love the chill out vibe of Byron, Airlie beach has a similar feel to it. Full of hostels, bars and a great lagoon to swim in – Airlie is a very laid back town making it easy to meet people before you head off to the barrier reef or the Whitsunday islands.
Accommodation
Beaches Backpackers
With free parking, free linen and smiles with lots of entertainment every night whilst you stay at Beaches, you will be right in the middle of the madness of Airlie Beach at this hostel. Check out their website for their specials, and find them right in the heart of Airlie, opposite the lagoon and supermarket.
356 Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach, QLD 4802
(07) 4946 6244
www.beaches.com.au
Whitsunday On The Beach
These apartments are self-catering hubs of privacy and luxury. Beautifully appointed with a balcony or patio, each apartment has a kitchenette and Wi-Fi, with only a short walk to the shops, bars and marina. The staff here cannot do enough for you whilst you stay at Whitsunday On The Beach.
269 Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach, QLD 4802
(07) 4946 6359
www.whitsundayonthebeach.com
Bar, Pubs and Clubs
Magnums
At the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Magnums is host to the best night out and the cheapest accommodation in Airlie Beach. With deals going off left, right and center, you won’t have to wander about looking for a good deal when you arrive, just pop your camper into the free parking and drop your bags into their great rooms before heading out into the town. With beat boxing nights, a huge beer garden and jelly wrestling as standard, book your Whitsundays trips here and then kick back, relax and have a great time down at Magnums.
366 Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach, QLD 4802
(07) 4964 1199
www.magnumshotel.com.au
Whitsundays
Now that you’ve enjoyed exploring the land, the Whitsundays is the perfect chance to entertain your inner water baby. For all you sea captains out there who love the turquoise waters and pearly white sands, the Whitsundays will be a haven of sailing dreams for you. Out to sea for three days/two nights, there are many different boats to choose from. They are a collection of continental islands, all different shapes of sizes, with boats to match, which are a paradise beyond belief.
Things to do in the Whitsundays
Oz Sail
One of the major companies in the Whitsundays, Oz Sail has the greatest selection of boats to choose from depending on the kind of trip you and your companions want to experience. Mandrake, Spank Me and the Avatar are the most popular boats which will become your home for up to three days whilst sailing around the islands. Whether you are solo travelling, in a large group or just with your partner, you can decide where you wish to sleep. For instance, within the Avatar – purpose built triamaran, there are small pods within the wings of the boat, which are perfect for two people to sleep in, and so ideal for couples who wish for a ‘honeymoon suite’ style getaway.
Check out caves of wonder with Aboriginal paintings and snorkel in the most crystal clear waters where you can see the reef as clear as day. All food is supplied so you just take some good plonk and a smile out to the Whitsundays for a sailing holiday of a lifetime.
Shop 3, 398 Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach, QLD 4802
(07) 4946 6877
www.ozsail.com.au
Ocean Rafting
Looking for an adventure? Then Ocean Rafting could just be the adrenalin ride for you. In the stunning Whitsundays, from the holiday town of Airlie Beach, Ocean Rafting takes guests on an exhilarating ride to the beautiful Whitsunday Islands and world-famous Whitehaven Beach. An Ocean Rafting trip allows you to snorkel at pristine reefs, experience stunning views of famous Hill Inlet and sink your toes into the brilliant white sand that makes Whitehaven Beach one of the top beaches in the world. Taking only small groups, you get to experience a thrilling ride on a semi rigid inflatable vessel built for speed and maneuverability and the adventure of the “wild side” where there are no resorts, just the natural pristine beauty of the Islands and the marine life. Award winning Ocean Rafting is eco accredited and departs daily from the Coral Sea Resort in Airlie Beach.
25 Ocean View Avenue, Airlie Beach, QLD 4802
(07) 4946 6848
www.oceanrafting.com.au
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Accommodation
Accommodation for all budgets can be found throughout the Whitsundays. From the sophisticated resorts of Hayman Island and Beach Club on Hamilton Island, to the adults only hideaway at Peppers Palm Bay. However if you decide to book onto an island tour, you need not worry about finding the perfect hotel, as you’ll be sleeping on board and getting your sea legs!
As you sail back into the harbour of Airlie Beach, you won’t want to step back into reality, but all good things must come to an end, and the rest of the coast is waiting there for you. So head to the camper, sit back and enjoy the rest of your East Coast adventure. Next stop…Mission Beach and Cairns.
By Frankie Salt
Start point: Gold Coast. Destination: Whitsundays
Gold Coast to Brisbane – 80.3 km – 1 hour
Brisbane to Hervey Bay – 290 km – 3 hours 40 minutes
Hervey Bay to Fraser Island (return) – ferry crossing time 50 minutes
Hervey Bay to Airlie Beach (Whitsundays) -875 km – 10 hours 20 minutes
Get ready to see a group of islands around 55 kilometres (34 miles) offshore from the coast of Queensland. The Whitsundays are a tropical paradise that boasts stunning private beaches, turquoise seas that meet whirling white sands, and first-rate luxury lodging. You’ll discover amazing adventures, but it’s also a great place to relax.
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To see more of the Gold Coast drive along the beach road to Southport, and see some wonderful beaches like Palm Beach, Burleigh Heads, Mermaid Beach, Broadbeach and famous Surfers Paradise.