Brisbane to Sydney: 10-Day Campervan Itinerary

Discovering Australia's East Coast

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Australia's diverse landscapes with this popular itinerary that takes you from the verdant rainforests of the Northern Rivers to the pristine shores of Byron Bay and Port Macquarie. Traverse the picturesque countryside at your leisure, uncover charming hamlets, and indulge in sumptuous cuisine and fine wines, all while marvelling at the unparalleled beauty of Australia's famed coastlines.

Find the perfect rental motorhome in Brisbane with Camper Champ's comparison functionality. Alternatively, you can pick up a camper rental from Sydney and drop it off in Brisbane.

Day 1-2: Brisbane, Beer and Beyond

Kick off your campervan adventure in sunny Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland. For some tips on where to park while you take the day to explore the city, visit our Brisbane guide. The South Bank Parklands is a great place to start, where you can enjoy a picnic, visit the Queensland Art Gallery, or cool off on those hot summer days at the man-made beach.

End your day with a visit to Fellons Brewery, a lively waterfront precinct teeming with bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues offering premium craft beers and delectable fare. Set along the Brisbane River, it boasts spectacular cityscape vistas and the iconic Story Bridge. Be present at dusk for awe-inspiring sunsets.

Mt Coot-tha also has some spectacular night views of the cityscape, and the Botanic Gardens offer an idyllic start to the day. Next, venture south towards the New South Wales border until you hit the Gold Coast. Located in the southeast pocket of Queensland, it’s renowned for its breathtaking beaches, amusement parks, and spirited nightlife. But be warned—the Gold Coast is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia, so it’s always busy, busy, busy!

Iconic shores like Surfers Paradise, Burleigh Heads, and Coolangatta offer crystalline waters, golden sands, and superb conditions for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing, all set against the backdrop of the Gold Coast's scenic hinterland.

Day 3: Rivers, Rainforests, and Seaside Sanctuaries

Experience waking up in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, where you'll be surrounded by lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and picturesque rivers—who could ask for more? Around these parts, you’ll find the historic town of Murwillumbah and can take a scenic drive through the Border Ranges National Park. A stop at Nimbin village, known for its alternative lifestyle and counterculture, is an interesting way to spend the afternoon.

Day 4: Surf, Sand and Sunsets in Byron Bay

Arrive in Byron Bay, famed for its relaxed atmosphere, pristine beaches, and top-notch surf. Discover Wategos Beach, hike to the Byron Bay Lighthouse and witness the magnificent sunset over Main Beach. Savour local seafood and organic produce.

Day 5-6: Port Macquarie's Coastal Allure

Travel further south along the Pacific Highway to reach Port Macquarie, a charming coastal town known for its historic landmarks, picturesque beaches, and abundant wildlife. Visit the Koala Hospital to get up close and personal with these adorable marsupials. Other attractions around include Shelly Beach and the ruins of Tacking Point Lighthouse.

Port Macquarie is a perfect place to slow the pace, take a more extended break from driving and spend an extra night.

Day 7: Lakeside Beauty and Natural Wonders in Forster

Taking a detour off the Pacific Highway to reach the enchanting coastal town of Forster, situated on the banks of Wallis Lake, is well worth the extra miles. Forster is a charming seaside town located in the Mid-North Coast region of New South Wales and is situated adjacent to its twin town, Tuncurry, which lies south across the bridge. Forster is also a gateway to the Myall Lakes National Park to the south, for those interested in camping, bushwalking, bird watching, and boating.

Forster is a popular destination for beachgoers, water sports enthusiasts, and nature lovers—where dolphins can often be seen in the area, and between May and November, Forster becomes a prime spot for whale watching as humpback whales migrate along the coast. Explore Booti Booti National Park, One Mile Beach and the Green Cathedral, an open-air church with a unique natural setting. With so much to see and do in Forster, it deserves staying here an extra day if you can extend your stay.

Day 8-9: Wine, Cheese and Scenic Views in the Hunter Valley

A visit to New South Wales is only complete with an overnight stop at the Hunter Valley, a picturesque region known for its world-class wines, artisan cheeses, and gorgeous landscapes. With a viticultural history dating back to the early 19th century, it is home to some of the oldest vine stocks in the world. The Hunter Valley is renowned for its Semillon, which is widely considered to be the iconic wine of the region. Take a scenic drive through the rolling hills and vineyards, stop at a few wineries for a tasting, and enjoy a gourmet lunch at one of the many fine restaurants in the area.

Pokolbin is the heart of the Hunter Valley Wine Country. It's a rural locality between the towns of Cessnock and Branxton. Pokolbin also offers a range of other attractions, including golf courses, hot air balloon rides, and concerts in its many vineyards. The Hunter Valley Gardens, located in Pokolbin, is a major draw for tourists. It's a large, beautifully manicured garden with a variety of themed sections. This, along with the Hunter Valley Zoo, makes Pokolbin a family-friendly destination as well.

Food and wine festivals are common in the area, with the Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival being a highlight of the year—typically spanning two months, May and June, annually. This event provides visitors with the opportunity to taste the region's diverse wines, meet local winemakers, and participate in cooking classes and workshops.

Day 10: Discovering the Best of Sydney

On the final day of your campervan adventure, you'll arrive in Sydney, the vibrant capital city of New South Wales. Visit iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, explore the historic Rocks district with its Friday night markets, and stroll through the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden.

Beachgoers will want to check out Bondi and Manly beaches, with epic surf spots and a buzzing vibe year-round.

Nature lovers won’t want to miss out on a day trip to the Blue Mountains to witness the sunset over The Three Sister’s rock formation or take a guided tour at Jenolan Caves and wander in awe at the beauty the mountains have carved out over the centuries.

Finish up your trip with a sunset drink at one of the many rooftop bars overlooking the stunning Sydney harbour as you reminisce about the unforgettable 10-day journey through one of Australia’s best coastlines. Reflect on the memories made, and adventures had, knowing that this trip through Australia's diverse landscapes has left an indelible mark on your heart.

Campervan Itineraries