Get to know one of Australia’s best regions, Queensland, by skimming the southern coast from Brisbane to Gold Coast, stopping at many great towns and cities along the way.

Queensland is one of the most blessed regions in Australia. It has many noteworthy attractions sprinkled all over it, and boasts of one of the finest seaside spots in the world – the Gold Coast. While all of Queensland is worth visiting, Gold Coast should be a major destination. But to see as much of the region, take a road trip instead of flying to the coast. This suggested itinerary will take you through several rewarding stops on your way to the perfect golden sands of southern Queensland.

Brisbane. The city of Brisbane is a great place to start your southern Queensland road trip, thanks to the laid-back lifestyle that will surely set the pace for your leisurely adventure. Brisbane is best known for its rich art and culture, its beach, and lakes, and the lovely river that runs through it.

From Brisbane, drive north by taking the Bruce Highway, which will lead you to the Sunshine Coast. By continuing on, you will find yourself in Maleny and Montville, two picture-perfect little towns full of log houses, stone cottages, art studios and galleries, and little craft shops.

Mooloolaba. Eventually, the road will lead you to Mooloolaba, a quiet coastal town with many chic bars and restaurants lined up along the sea. This is a great place to stay overnight in before driving on the next day. A seaside dinner is the perfect cherry to top off your fun-filled driving day.

Eumundi. From Mooloolaba, you can travel 39 km going to Eumundi, a town overflowing with fresh organic produce and a variety of native handmade products. These can all be found at the colorful and very busy Eumundi Markets.

There are four major stops in the area, namely:

· Coolabine Farmstead – Sample some of the farm’s hand-crafted goat cheese, which has actually won awards. 

· Yandina ginger factory – The largest ginger factory in the world, Yandina will amaze you with all its ginger-made goodies, from tea, chocolate, to ice cream.

· Eumundi Noose Milk – Sample some dairy fresh from the farm.

· Kenilworth organic olives – Take a look at how organic extra virgin olive oil is grown, produced, blended, and bottled.

Noosa. After an eventful day in Eumundi, make your way to Noosa, which is 21 km away. Another coastal town, Noosa has several beckoning resorts and sunny beaches. There are many bistros as well where you can take a relaxing peaceful brunch break by the sea.

Surfer’s Paradise. Finally, from Noosa, you can start driving towards Surfer’s Paradise, which will mark your entry into the Gold Coast. Surfer’s Paradise is a great place to search for accommodation options if you plan to stay for days in the Gold Coast. There are also many night markets that are worth checking out in the area.

Gold Coast. You’ve made it to the Gold Coast, one of the finest spots in the country and maybe even the world. Go to the QDeck, the only beachside observation deck in the country, and take a breathless 360-degree look at the whole place. This will help you understand just what the fuss is about.

While in the Gold Coast, you won’t run out of outdoor adventures to enjoy, some at the beach, some at any of the theme parks in the area.

Route Facts:

Country (where the road trip is): Queensland, Australia

Starting Point & Closest Airport: Brisbane, Brisbane Airport

End Point: Gold Coast

Total Distance (in Km or Miles): 640 km

Estimate of Drive Time to cover route: 1 week