Cairns to Melbourne 2-Week Road Trip Itinerary

After collecting your camper from the Cairns branch and stocking up on supplies, it's time to point your wheels south and ease into your first day of coastal motoring. As you leave the city’s tropical buzz behind, you’ll drive through lush rainforest, sugarcane fields, and misty mountain ranges on one side, with the Coral Sea glinting on the other.  

Where to stop between Cairns and Mission Beach

• Babinda Boulders: Tucked beneath Mount Bartle Frere, this lush rainforest reserve is famed for its crystal-clear creeks, shady picnic spots and ankle-deep swimming pools. It’s the perfect place for a refreshing dip and a stretch of your legs. 

• Etty Bay: Just 15 km off the Bruce Highway, Etty Bay’s white sands and rainforest backdrop create an idyllic coastal haven. Arrive early to spot wild cassowaries grazing right on the beach—an unforgettable wildlife encounter. 

Where to stay in Mission Beach

BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks – South Mission Beach offers powered sites, modern amenities and direct beach access, making it the perfect spot to unwind after your first 140 km of this Cairns to Melbourne road trip. 

Now that you’re warmed up, today’s drive hugs the Cassowary Coast all the way to Townsville. Rolling sugarcane hills give way to historic towns and rainforest-tucked waterfalls.   

Where to stop between Mission Beach and Townsville

Cardwell Spa Pools: Nestled in a secluded rainforest gully, these mineral-fed pools shimmer an otherworldly blue. There is truly no better way to stretch your legs than to slip into the silky water for a rejuvenating break beneath the canopy. 

Best things to do in Townsville

The Strand: The terminus of today's drive puts you in the heart of Townsville, and what better way to unwind than to go for a walk along Townsville’s two-kilometre seaside promenade, complete with rockpools, picnic lawns and sweeping views across Cleveland Bay to Magnetic Island. If time allows, pop into the nearby Museum of Tropical Queensland or hop a ferry to explore secluded bays and walking trails on Magnetic Island. 

Where to stay in Townsville

Rowes Bay Beachfront Holiday Park: Pitch your campervan under swaying palms with panoramic views of Magnetic Island. With modern facilities and beachfront access, Rowes Bay is the ideal base to recharge before day three of your epic road trip from Cairns to Melbourne.  

Today, you’re trading Townsville’s beachfront for the laid-back vibes of Airlie Beach: the gateway to the Whitsundays. Along the way, you’ll pass through sleepy towns where you can fuel up on local prawns and snap that perfect “road-trip” shot of your campervan by the water. This leg of your Cairns to Melbourne road trip is all about coastal panoramas and chilled-out stops. 

Where to stop between Townsville and Airlie Beach

• Horseshoe Bay, Bowen: A picture-perfect cove with clear, calm waters ideal for snorkelling right off the beach. Stretch your legs on the sand, then slip on your mask and explore the coral gardens just metres from shore. 

• Conway National Park: Just inland from the highway, this lush patch of rainforest offers walking tracks through hoop pines and pandanus groves. Keep an eye out for shy tree kangaroos and the occasional emerald dove. 

Best things to do in Airlie Beach

When the sun dips below the horizon, Airlie Beach comes alive. Head to the lagoon for an evening swim under the stars, then wander Main Street’s bars and cafés—live music, tropical cocktails and laid-back chatter are the order of the night. If you’re craving a late-night adventure, book a stargazing tour on the beach or simply kick back around a campfire at your motorhome site. 

Where to stay in Airlie Beach

BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort: More than just a place to park your camper, this resort is a Whitsunday holiday destination in itself. Splash in the pools, grab a pizza at the on-site café or nestle into your powered site surrounded by tropical palms. 

Today’s stretch is short but sweet—perfect for a relaxed morning coffee by the lagoon before you point your camper south. You’ll trade island views for rolling cane fields and stroll rainforest trails. 

Where to stop between Airlie Beach and Mackay

• Cape Hillsborough: For a little piece of Aussie magic, arrive at dawn to witness kangaroos grazing on the beach as the sun rises. It’s one of Australia’s most magical wildlife experiences—no zoo required. 

• Eungella National Park: Detour inland to Broken River, where early-morning platypuses slip through the water’s edge. Boardwalks and viewing platforms make spotting these shy creatures easy. 

Where to stay in Mackay

BIG4 Mackay Blacks Beach Holiday Park: Tucked on the headland, this coastal park overlooks the Southern Islands of the Whitsundays. Powered sites, clean facilities, and a palm-fringed beach just metres away make it a camper’s dream. 

Fuel up early because today’s drive is the longest so far, taking you through classic Queensland countryside. You’ll clock plenty of kilometres between Mackay and Rockhampton, but with a couple of fun detours, it won’t feel like too much of a slog.  

Where to stop between Mackay and Rockhampton

• Sarina Sugar Shed: Pull over to learn about the region’s sweet legacy—taste fresh cane juice, meet the farm animals and sample award-winning muscat. 

• Capricorn Caves: Just north of Rockhampton, these ancient limestone caverns are a cool reprieve from the midday heat. Guided tours wind through dramatic chambers and underground rivers. 

Where to stay in Rockhampton

Discovery Parks Rockhampton: Set against the backdrop of Mount Archer, this friendly holiday park offers spacious powered sites and quick access to Rockhampton’s cafés and pubs—ideal for unwinding after a big day on the road. 

Today’s stretch winds through charming rural landscapes dotted with grazing cattle and sugarcane fields. After rolling out of Rockhampton, you’ll encounter a refreshing oasis at Yeppoon before veering inland toward Agnes Water – the gateway to the historic Town of 1770. 

Where to stop between Rockhampton and Agnes Water

Yeppoon Lagoon: This free, ocean-fed infinity pool perches right on the foreshore, offering epic views of the Coral Sea and perfect photo ops. Pack your swimmers and snorkel gear for a quick dip before hitting the road again. 

Best things to do in Agnes Water

Paperbark Forest Walk: Stretch your legs on this short, elevated boardwalk through a fragrant melaleuca forest. The easy loop takes you past shaded wetlands—keep an eye out for kingfishers and tree snakes basking in the dappled sunlight. 

Where to stay in Agnes Water

Agnes Water Holiday Park: Whether you park your campervan metres from the waves or upgrade to a safari-style glamping tent, this park delivers laid-back coastal vibes. Fall asleep to the sound of surf and wake up ready for another day of road tripping from Cairns to Melbourne.  

Pick up the pace today as you cruise along the coast toward Hervey Bay. You’ll pass sugar-refining country and historic townships before reaching the gateway to K’gari (Fraser Island) – a highlight on any Cairns to Melbourne road trip. 

Where to stop between Agnes Water and Hervey Bay

• Bundaberg Rum Distillery: Tour the iconic distillery and sample their signature spiced rums. It’s a fun detour to learn how Queensland’s famous spirit is made – and to stock up your campervan’s minibar. 
   

• Fraser Island Tour: Jump on a guided day-trip with a local operator like Fraser Explorer Tours. While maui campervans aren’t permitted on the sand island, you can park up, ferry over and spend the day exploring the world’s largest sand island on 4wd tracks. 

Where to stay in Hervey Bay

Hervey Bay Caravan Park: Nestled beside a peaceful lake and nature reserve, this seven-acre park offers shady powered sites and easy access to town. Unwind with a lakeside sunset and plan tomorrow’s dolphin-watching cruise. 

Today, you’ll trade Hervey’s lakeside calm for Noosa’s boutiques, beaches and lush national parks. This leg of your Cairns to Melbourne travel itinerary showcases the best of coastal Queensland, blending wildlife encounters with laid-back beach culture. 

Where to stop between Hervey Bay and Noosa

Tin Can Bay: One of the few spots in Australia where you can hand-feed wild dolphins right from the shore. Book your 7 am session and prepare for a magical encounter before breakfast. 

Best things to do in Noosa

Noosa National Park: Lace up your walking shoes for coastal trails that hug dramatic headlands, past secluded bays and overhanging pandanus. Keep your eyes peeled for koalas snoozing in the eucalypts. 

Where to stay in Noosa

Noosa Holiday Parks: Offering a relaxed, comfortable and economical way to camp on Noosa’s doorstep, this park places you minutes from Hastings Street’s cafés and the beachside headland. 

This morning, point your campervan south along the Sunshine Coast. From world-famous wildlife encounters to cosmopolitan dining, Brisbane beckons with urban energy after your beachside cruise. 

Where to stop between Noosa and Brisbane

Australia Zoo: Step into Steve Irwin’s legacy at the “home of the crocodile hunter.” From croc feeds to koala cuddles, this family-run zoo is a must-visit for wildlife lovers on any east-coast road trip. 

Best things to do in Brisbane

South Bank: Wander riverside parklands, lounge by the man-made beach and explore world-class galleries and eateries. It’s the perfect urban counterpoint to your camper-powered days. 

Where to stay in Brisbane

Brisbane Holiday Village: Just 15 minutes south of the CBD, this family-owned, resort-style park offers spacious powered sites, a heated pool and friendly service—a cosy hub before tomorrow’s Gold Coast adventures. 

Today, you’ll cut through the Gold Coast’s iconic beaches en route to bohemian Byron Bay. Think glittering surf breaks, skyline vistas and Australia’s easternmost point calling your name. 

Where to stop between Brisbane and Byron Bay

Gold Coast Beaches: Swing by Surfers Paradise for that perfect city-meets-beach shot, or pause at Burleigh Heads and Currumbin for world-class waves and relaxed café culture. 

Best things to do in Byron Bay

Cape Byron Lighthouse: Lace up your hiking boots and venture out to Australia’s most easterly point. The reward? Panoramic ocean views, playful dolphins offshore and, if you’re lucky, migrating whales. 

Where to stay in Byron Bay

First Sun Holiday Park: Park your motorhome steps from Main Beach or glamp under the pandanus trees. With bright cabins, powered sites and a laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect Byron base. 

This leg of your Cairns to Melbourne campervan road trip treats you to a mix of laid-back beach towns and lush hinterland. Wind through Byron’s coastal backroads before rejoining the Pacific Highway. As you roll into Coffs Harbour, get ready to relive childhood thrills at an Aussie icon. 

Where to stop between Byron Bay and Coffs Harbour

Lennox Head Lookout: Perched high above the Pacific, this lookout delivers epic 180° views of rolling waves and distant headlands. It’s the perfect spot for a coffee break and a stretch of your legs before the final push to Coffs.  

Best things to do in Coffs Harbour

Big Banana Fun Park: No Cairns to Melbourne road trip is complete without a selfie by the giant banana! Spend an hour or two on the toboggans, mini-golf and laser tag to break up the drive and bring out your inner kid. 

Where to stay in Coffs Harbour

BIG4 Coffs Harbour: Wake up to the sound of surf just metres from your powered site. This park’s beachside location and leafy creek reserve make it a top choice for a relaxed camping experience. 

Trading tropical north for cosmopolitan south, today’s drive threads through picture-perfect seaside towns like Port Macquarie and Newcastle. Think world-class cafés, historic lighthouses and golden beaches galore on this stretch of the Princes Highway and Pacific Motorway. 

Where to stop between Coffs Harbour and Sydney

• Port Macquarie: Pop in for brunch overlooking Town Beach, then wander the Koala Hospital to see rescued wildlife up close—an unexpected delight on your road trip. 

• Newcastle: With its cool laneways, buzzing bar scene and iconic Merewether surf break, Newcastle is the perfect pit stop before the urban buzz of Sydney. 

Where to stay in Sydney

NRMA Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park: Just 45 minutes from the CBD, this tranquil park on the shores of Lake Narrabeen offers powered sites, a pool and easy ferry links into the city—a serene base for your one-night Sydney stop. 

While it’s technically possible to wrap up your two-week Australia east coast itinerary with a mega-day behind the wheel, if you have the time, we recommend extending this into a five-day drive so you can savour each stretch. Check out our Melbourne to Sydney itinerary for suggested overnight stops and hidden gems along the way. If you’re short on time, you can always hop a quick flight and pick up another maui motorhome up again in Melbourne to explore this final city on Australia’s famous east coast itinerary. 

If you have a day to spare in Melbourne before departure, why not sneak in a quick urban adventure? Check out our foodie’s guide to Melbourne for top eats, or unwind with fun things to do in Melbourne for couples. 

Ready to set off on the Cairns to Melbourne 2-week road trip itinerary?

There you have it! Now you’re all geared up to conquer nearly 3,700 km of east-coast magic—rolling rainforests, sun-soaked beaches, island paradises and vibrant cities. Before you hit the highway, you might also find these insider reads handy: 

• For extra inspiration in Far North QLD, check out our round-up of the best day trips from Cairns and uncover hidden gems in the rainforest. 

• Planning your evenings? Don’t miss things to do at night in Cairns for fun after dark. 

• Make the most of your downtime with a visit to the best national parks near Cairns—world Heritage walks are just a short drive away. 

• And once you roll into Melbourne, you can flip the map and head north again with our guide to the best stops on a road trip from Melbourne to the Gold Coast. 

Ready to make some road trip memories? Book your maui motorhome today and pick it up from any of our convenient branches to kick off the ultimate two-week adventure. Happy travels!