Embarking on the iconic east coast drive from Sydney to Brisbane covers roughly 900–1,000 km and typically takes about 10–12 hours of non-stop driving. We recommend spreading it over a week or more to savor the highlights. The Pacific Highway route hugs the coast (passing Newcastle, Port Stephens, Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay), whereas the inland New England Highway (via Scone, Tamworth, Armidale) is a bit longer (~990 km, ~11½h non-stop) but much quieter and scenic. Along the way you’ll encounter golden beaches, rainforests and quirky Aussie landmarks – from the legendary Sydney Opera House start to the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay’s laid-back surf culture.
Starting out from Sydney’s harbour (see Opera House and downtown skyline), the Pacific Highway leads north through coastal New South Wales. The total distance is roughly 900 km, so plan for daily legs of ~200–300 km. For example, many coastal itinerary covers the trip in a week-long loop. Even on a tight schedule, allow 10–12 hours of driving, but stop often: apps like WikiCamps can help find free campsite options along the way.
Highlights & Stops
The coastal route is packed with attractions. Key stops include:
Port Stephens (NSW) – Famous for its sand dunes and wild dolphins. At Anna Bay you’ll find the largest coastal dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, great for sand-boarding or even camel rides. Port Stephens also offers dolphin-swim cruises right in the bay.
Coffs Harbour (NSW) – Home of the giant Big Banana (a classic Aussie photo-op) and beautiful beaches. (Nearby Sawtell village has cafes and markets.)
Byron Bay (NSW) – Iconic surf town with a relaxed vibe. Snorkeling at Julian Rocks Marine Reserve brings you face-to-face with turtles, rays and dolphins. Don’t miss the Byron Bay lighthouse at sunrise or sunset (a dreamy coastal lookout).
Gold Coast (QLD) – Famous for its high-rises and sandy beaches. Nearby hinterland detours (e.g. Springbrook or Tamborine Rainforest) reward with waterfalls and mountain views.
Noosa (QLD) – Stunning beaches and hiking trails. The Noosa National Park has hidden “fairy pools” – clear rock pools that form at low tide. They are among the coast’s most magical swimming spots (don’t forget your swimsuit!).
Each of these destinations has caravan parks and campgrounds, but you can also opt for wild/free camping at nearby sites (see camping section below). Planning apps help – several travel sources highlight free campgrounds around Sydney, Newcastle, Coffs Harbour, Byron Bay and Brisbane.
Mid-trip view: Tomaree Head above Port Stephens, showing rolling green hills, bay beaches and Pacific Ocean. Port Stephens is famous for its nature – playful wild dolphins and big sand dunes – a great first-day stop after leaving Sydney.
Route Planning & Tips
Distance & Time – The drive is about 900–1,000 km. Break the trip into manageable days (many suggested 7-day itineraries cover roughly 200–300 km per day.). In practice, allow 10–12 hours total driving time, plus extra for detours and breaks.
Route Options – The Pacific Highway/M1 (coastal route) is faster (multi-lane motorway, scenic beaches). The New England Highway inland takes slightly longer (~11½h nonstop) but is far quieter and passes through rural towns like Tamworth (Golden Guitar) and Armidale. Both end in Brisbane.
Navigation – Use GPS or apps. Many travel guides recommend starting early to enjoy the morning light and avoid traffic. For EV travelers, note that more fast-charging stations are now available along the route. Apps like PlugShare are essential for finding EV charging stations. (For fuel vehicles, expect ~€0.90–0.95 per litre of petrol in Australia; at ~12 L/100 km, a 1,000 km trip might use ~100–120 L or roughly €100–€115 in fuel.)
Best Time to Travel – The stretch from May to September (Australian autumn–winter) is ideal. You’ll avoid the worst of the summer heat/humidity and storms, while still enjoying plenty of sunshine. Summer (Dec–Feb) is hot and humid up north, and beaches/campsites fill up. Spring and fall shoulder seasons offer mild weather and fewer crowds.
Apps & Resources – Campstar is a great resource for booking campervans and finding route tips. We also recommend checking our Wild Camping in Australia – Ultimate Guide for info on free/wild campsites and regulations along this drive. (It covers safety, planning, and how to find off-grid spots in Australia.)
Tolls & Roads – Leaving Sydney, you’ll hit a few toll roads (M2, M7 motorway). Once you’re on the Pacific Highway north of Gosford, there are no tolls until the Brisbane bypass. Roads are generally in good condition; watch for wildlife at dusk (especially kangaroos near forests).
Byron Bay at sunset: famous for surfing and chill vibes. The lighthouse walk and Julian Rocks snorkel are highlights. Byron Bay has plenty of caravan parks and bush camping nearby (see wild camping guide). Post-surf, enjoy Byron’s cafés and craft breweries.
Camping & Accommodation
For RV travelers, camping options abound:
Caravan Parks – All major stops (Sydney suburb parks, Port Stephens, Coffs, Byron, Gold Coast, Noosa, Brisbane) have full-service caravan parks (with electricity, showers, laundry, etc.). Rates vary but expect around €15–€25 per person, per night in low season.
Free/Wild Camping – The East Coast has many free campsites. Several travel sources highlight spots like Pebbly Beach, Samurai Beach, Tuppenny Road and Noosa North Shore as excellent off-grid campsites. Wikipedia and travel forums also recommend wild camping (bush camping on public land) at low-traffic beaches and hinterland roads. (Always check local signs and state rules: wild camping is legal in many rural NSW/Qld areas, but banned in many parks or near private property.) Using the free sites can cut costs dramatically. Our Wild Camping Guide (link above) has tips on safety, gear, and etiquette.
Apps & Guides – Camping platforms and official state websites can help you find and compare both paid and free campgrounds. Several travel resources highlight the availability of free campgrounds around Sydney, Newcastle, Coffs Harbour, Byron Bay and Brisbane. Download a map and plan each day’s overnight stop in advance.
Essential Preparation and Safety
Before you hit the road:
Vehicle Prep: Check your camper/RV is in good condition (tires, brakes, fluids). Stock up on water, extra fuel (or plan for diesel stops).
Packing: Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swim gear, insect repellent, and warm layers (coastal nights can be chilly in winter). A basic toolkit and first-aid kit are a must. Food: Carry snacks and supplies – small towns en route may have limited options.
Insurance: Ensure your RV rental has proper insurance. Campstar and other providers often include insurance packages.
Safety: Mobile reception is patchy in remote areas. Download offline maps. Notify someone of your itinerary. If traveling with kids, factor in extra stops.
Tip: Book your campervan well in advance, especially for summer. Rates are lower off-season, and vehicles (especially large 4WD campers) can be scarce during holidays.