Family-Friendly Road Trip from Sydney to Cairns via Gold Coast

Day 1: Explore Sydney

Sydney, Australia on June 1, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Grounds of Alexandria

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Grounds of Alexandria, a charming cafe with a beautiful garden atmosphere.
Drive from Sydney to Gold Coast, about an 11-hour drive covering approximately 850km.
$30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Gold Coast Beaches

Spend the afternoon relaxing at the stunning Gold Coast beaches, such as Surfers Paradise or Burleigh Heads.
Check into your accommodation in Gold Coast.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cavill Avenue

Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the many restaurants along Cavill Avenue, known for its vibrant dining scene.
Relax and rest for the night at your Gold Coast accommodation.
$50, 2 hours
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Day 2: Family Fun in Gold Coast

Gold Coast, Australia on June 2, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Paddock Bakery

Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Paddock Bakery, known for its delicious pastries and coffee.
Head to a nearby theme park like Movie World or Sea World for a day of family-friendly fun.
$25, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Rick Shores

Enjoy a relaxing lunch with stunning ocean views at Rick Shores, serving modern Asian cuisine.
Explore more of the theme park or head to the beach for some relaxation.
$40, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Experience up-close encounters with Australian wildlife at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, perfect for the whole family.
Return to your Gold Coast accommodation for a restful evening.
$35, 2.5 hours
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Day 3: Journey to Cairns

Cairns, Australia on June 3, 2024

7:00AM

Drive to Cairns

Embark on a scenic road trip from Gold Coast to Cairns, enjoying the picturesque views along the way.
Check into your accommodation in Cairns and freshen up.
Free, 8 hours (including stops)

3:00PM

Explore Cairns Esplanade

Take a leisurely stroll along Cairns Esplanade, lined with palm trees and offering stunning views of the waterfront.
Indulge in some local seafood for dinner at a restaurant overlooking the marina.
$60, 2 hours
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Day 4: Great Barrier Reef Adventure

Cairns, Australia on June 4, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ochre Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Ochre Restaurant, known for its modern Australian cuisine.
Embark on a full-day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef for an unforgettable snorkeling experience.
$200, 8 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Dundee's Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious dinner at Dundee's Restaurant, specializing in fresh seafood and Australian dishes.
Head back to your Cairns accommodation for a well-deserved rest.
$70, 2 hours
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Day 5: Kuranda Scenic Railway

Cairns, Australia on June 5, 2024

9:00AM

Take the Kuranda Scenic Railway

Embark on a scenic train journey through the rainforest on the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway.
Explore the Kuranda Village markets and enjoy lunch at a local cafe.
$80, 6 hours

4:00PM

Visit Rainforestation Nature Park

Experience indigenous culture and wildlife at Rainforestation Nature Park, including a Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience.
Return to Cairns for dinner at a cozy restaurant in the city.
$90, 4 hours
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Day 6: Relaxing Day in Cairns

Cairns, Australia on June 6, 2024

10:00AM

Enjoy Cairns Lagoon

Spend a relaxing morning at Cairns Lagoon, a popular swimming destination with stunning views of the ocean.
Indulge in a seafood lunch at a waterfront restaurant.
$50, 2 hours

2:00PM

Shopping at Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

Explore indigenous arts and crafts at Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, perfect for souvenir shopping.
Dine at a local eatery with live music for a vibrant evening.
$40, 3 hours
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Day 7: Return to Sydney

Sydney, Australia on June 7, 2024

8:00AM

Drive back to Sydney

Embark on the journey back to Sydney, enjoying the scenic views and reminiscing about your wonderful trip.
Arrive in Sydney and drop off your rental car.
Free, 10 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Sydney Tower

Enjoy a farewell dinner with panoramic views of Sydney at the Sydney Tower revolving restaurant.
Reflect on the unforgettable memories made during your family road trip.
$100, 2 hours
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