Mention the words Road Trip in a country the size of Australia and some people will cringe in horror. The long distances between towns can turn travellers off. But it shouldn't, as there are so many places and lots to do and see, I feel the biggest thing travellers do incorrectly when planning a road trip is they don't allow enough time. Being rushed isn't going to add to the enjoyment. If you are on a tight schedule, fly to a central point and drive out to the locations you most want to see.
This article is going to focus on Brisbane to Cairns via the coast road (Pacific Hwy). So firstly you will need to decide how long your trip is going to be and that will determine the length of time you will have in any one place. I am going to stick mostly to the coast but there are many fabulous places to see on the inland roads.
Depart Brisbane:- The easiest exit route is the gateway motorway north. If you're starting point is south of the Brisbane River there is a toll to get North and there are no toll booths, so you will need to arrange for a pass or if you do go through the toll you have 3 days to call the transport administration and arrange payment via your credit card. The motorway will then merge into the Bruce Highway which will take you the rest of your trip.
The roads are reasonable good but there are several road works around so don't be impatient, keep to the speed limits indicated and be sure to stop if you are feeling fatigued. The RACQ is a good reference for road conditions in Queensland. Queensland is very hot in summer so have the air conditioning working, plenty of water to drink and some health snacks. If you are travelling with children make sure you have everything you need to make their trip as pleasurable as you can. It will impact on your holiday. Use this link for handy information on travelling with children.
Sunshine Coast: The Sunshine coast stretches from Caloundra to Noosa and there are many beautiful beaches in between. The sunny coast is not as commercialised as the Gold Coast but the outdoor activity is similar. Surfing, boating, swimming, skiing or anything related to the water is here for your enjoyment. The accommodation ranges from budget camping, cabins, family hotels and 4 and 5 star resorts. There are theme parks for the kids and the young at heart, plenty of shopping for the shopaholics, department stores, boutiques and tailors bring it on and take your credit cards. Some places you should probably not miss:- Steve Irwin's Australia Zoo at Landsborough, Noosa National Park, Buderim's Ginger factory and Underwater World at Mooloolaba.
Gympie:- Not much to see here however it is a quaint little town once known as the town that saved Queensland from bankruptcy. Gold was discovered here in 1867 and at that time Queensland