11-Day Family Adventure Road Trip Itinerary in Queensland

Day 1: Explore Brisbane

Brisbane, Australia

9:00AM

Brisbane Botanic Gardens

Start your adventure by wandering through the beautifully landscaped Brisbane Botanic Gardens, where the kids can enjoy the open spaces and learn about local flora.
Drive from your accommodation into the city centre, parking available at nearby facilities
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

11:00AM

South Bank

Head over to South Bank, filled with amazing play areas, where the kids can splash in the lagoon and you can find unique art installations.
A short walk from the Botanic Gardens
CURRENCY0, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Charming Squire

Enjoy some tasty pub food at The Charming Squire, featuring local seasonal dishes and kids’ meals.
Return to South Bank for lunch
CURRENCY80, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Queensland Museum

Spend the afternoon immersing yourself in Australia's natural history and culture at the Queensland Museum, which offers engaging exhibits for all ages.
5-minute walk from The Charming Squire
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Riverland

Relax at Riverland, a riverside bar and restaurant, letting the kids enjoy the outdoor games while you unwind.
Just a short walk along the river from the museum
CURRENCY90, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Gold Coast Fun

Gold Coast, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hippo Beach Café

Kickstart your day with a beachfront breakfast at Hippo Beach Café, where fresh ingredients create scrumptious meals.
Drive from Brisbane to Gold Coast, approximately 1 hour
CURRENCY60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Theme Park Adventure

Spend the day at Dreamworld, with thrilling rides and animal experiences to entertain the entire family.
Direct access from Hippo Beach Café, just 20 minutes drive to the park
CURRENCY320, 6 hours

4:00PM

Gold Coast Beaches

After Dreamworld, head to the beach for some sun and sand, perfect for the kids to play while you relax.
20-minute drive to Surfers Paradise
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at This Is How

Savour contemporary Australian dishes at This Is How while soaking in the coastal atmosphere.
Short drive from the beach
CURRENCY110, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Byron Bay Bliss

Byron Bay, Australia

8:00AM

Departure for Byron Bay

Enjoy a scenic drive to Byron Bay, renowned for its vibrant beaches and cultural atmosphere.
1 hour drive from Gold Coast
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe 63

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast at Cafe 63, known for its wide range of options and family-friendly vibe.
Located conveniently in Byron Bay
CURRENCY70, 1 hour

10:30AM

Cape Byron Lighthouse

Climb to the Cape Byron Lighthouse for breathtaking views and a touch of Australian history.
A short drive or walk from the café to the lighthouse
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Beach Hotel

Grab a family-friendly lunch at The Beach Hotel, where you can enjoy great views and a lively atmosphere.
Quick drive back to the beachfront
CURRENCY90, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Tallow Beach Exploration

Head to Tallow Beach for a laid-back afternoon, perfect for swimming and building sandcastles.
15-minute drive from The Beach Hotel
CURRENCY0, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Byron at Byron

Indulge in a gourmet dinner at The Byron at Byron, offering a range of exquisite dishes made from local produce.
Drive back towards town for dinner
CURRENCY120, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Back to Brisbane

Brisbane, Australia

9:00AM

Breakfast at Luscious

Enjoy a healthy breakfast at Luscious, with options perfect for everyone in the family.
A short drive or walk to the café from your accommodation
CURRENCY70, 1 hour

10:30AM

Return to Brisbane

Check out and start your drive back to Brisbane, preparing for the next city adventure.
1.5-hour drive back to Brisbane
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Explore the Queensland Art Gallery

Spend your afternoon at the Queensland Art Gallery, filled with inspiring art suitable for all ages.
Drive into the city and park nearby
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at GOMA Restaurant

Enjoy lunch at GOMA Restaurant, focusing on seasonal and local produce to create innovative dishes.
Onsite at the Queensland Art Gallery
CURRENCY90, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Meet adorable koalas and kangaroos at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary for an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Drive from the art gallery to the sanctuary, just 20 minutes away
CURRENCY80, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Fish Lane

Finish the day with a casual dinner at one of the eateries on Fish Lane, offering diverse options for the whole family.
Drive back to Fish Lane from the sanctuary
CURRENCY100, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Fun on Sunshine Coast

Sunshine Coast, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Moka

Start your Sunshine Coast adventure with a hearty breakfast at Café Moka, famous for its exceptional coffee and breakfast dishes.
Drive from Brisbane to Sunshine Coast, approximately 1.5 hours
CURRENCY60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Noosa National Park

Explore the pristine beauty of Noosa National Park, where you can take a family-friendly bushwalk along the coastal track.
A short 40-minute drive from Café Moka
CURRENCY0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Miss Moneypenny's

Savour a delicious lunch in a stylish setting at Miss Moneypenny's, with menus catered for families.
Drive back towards Noosa for lunch
CURRENCY100, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Australia Zoo

Experience the incredible wildlife at Australia Zoo, founded by the late Steve Irwin, offering plenty of activities for children.
A 30-minute drive from Noosa
CURRENCY240, 4 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Glasshouse

Wrap up your day with a delicious meal at The Glasshouse, known for its seasonal dishes encompassing local ingredients.
Drive to The Glasshouse nearby for dinner
CURRENCY110, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Fraser Island Adventure

Fraser Island, Australia

7:00AM

Depart for Fraser Island

Catch an early ferry from Hervey Bay to Fraser Island for a day filled with natural wonders.
Drive from Sunshine Coast to Hervey Bay, approximately 2 hours, to catch the ferry
CURRENCY150, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Breakfast on the Ferry

Have breakfast on the ferry while enjoying the spectacular views of the ocean.
On the ferry to Fraser Island
CURRENCY40, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Fraser Island

Spend the day exploring Fraser Island, visiting Lake McKenzie and other stunning natural attractions.
Organised guided tours available on the island
CURRENCY300, 6 hours

5:00PM

Return Ferry to Hervey Bay

Return to Hervey Bay with heartwarming memories of Fraser Island.
Catch the same ferry back to Hervey Bay
CURRENCY150, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Boat Club

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at The Boat Club, boasting waterfront views and fresh seafood.
Short drive from the ferry terminal
CURRENCY120, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Hervey Bay Relaxation

Hervey Bay, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Lounge

Indulge in a fantastic breakfast at The Coffee Lounge known for its relaxed atmosphere and tasty meals.
Just a short drive to the café
CURRENCY60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Whale Watching Tour

Take a family-friendly whale watching tour, where you might see humpback whales during their migration.
Book a tour within Hervey Bay
CURRENCY400, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Enzo's on the Beach

Savour a delicious beachfront lunch at Enzo's, loved for their warm atmosphere and fresh cuisine.
Short drive from the tour drop-off
CURRENCY80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Esplanade Walk

Take a leisurely stroll down the esplanade, where the kids can enjoy play areas while you enjoy the ocean views.
A short walk along the beachfront
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Salt Cafe

Conclude your day with a hearty meal at Salt Cafe, a local favourite with a vibrant atmosphere.
Short drive or walk from the esplanade
CURRENCY70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Bundaberg Exploration

Bundaberg, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Muffin Break

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Muffin Break, where you can try their renowned coffee and fresh pastries.
Drive from Hervey Bay to Bundaberg, approximately 1.5 hours
CURRENCY60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bundaberg Rum Distillery Tour

Take a family tour of the Bundaberg Rum Distillery, where you can learn the history and process of rum-making.
Short drive from the café to the distillery
CURRENCY90, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Experience

Enjoy a refreshing lunch while sampling locally brewed drinks and tasty dishes.
A brief walk to the Brewed Drinks Experience from the distillery
CURRENCY80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Mon Repos Turtle Centre

Explore the Mon Repos Turtle Centre, where you can learn about conservation efforts and see nesting turtles (seasonal).
35-minute drive from the Brewed Drinks Experience
CURRENCY0, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Lighthouse Hotel

Wrap up your day with dinner at The Lighthouse Hotel, featuring a menu of local delicacies in a family-friendly setting.
Drive to the hotel restaurant from the turtle centre
CURRENCY90, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Rockhampton Rhythms

Rockhampton, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee House

Start your day at The Coffee House for an energising breakfast before the drive to Rockhampton.
Drive from Bundaberg to Rockhampton, approximately 2 hours
CURRENCY60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Rockhampton Heritage Walk

Explore the historical architecture on a guided Rockhampton Heritage Walk, ideal for immersing in the local culture.
Straight to the city centre from the breakfast
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Rockhampton Leagues Club

Take a break for lunch at the Rockhampton Leagues Club, with a family-friendly atmosphere.
Short drive or walk from the Heritage Walk location
CURRENCY80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Kershaw Gardens

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring Kershaw Gardens, where there’s plenty of space for kids to play and wander.
A quick drive from the club
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at The Capricorn Caves

Enjoy an exhilarating dining experience at The Capricorn Caves, which also offers cave tours.
Drive approximately 30 minutes to the caves
CURRENCY100, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Gladstone Gateway

Gladstone, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Gladstone Marina

Savour your breakfast with a view at one of the cafés along Gladstone Marina, perfect for a family outing.
Drive from Rockhampton to Gladstone, approximately 1 hour
CURRENCY70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Tondoon Botanical Gardens

Explore the beautiful Tondoon Botanical Gardens, an oasis of local flora that the entire family can enjoy.
Short drive from the marina
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at The Rocks Bar

Take a break while enjoying the waterfront view at The Rocks Bar, with delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere.
Quick drive from the gardens
CURRENCY90, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Gladstone Aquatic Centre

Let the kids splash around at Gladstone Aquatic Centre, a great way to unwind in the sun.
5-minute drive from The Rocks Bar
CURRENCY10, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Gladstone Yacht Club

Wrap up your day with dinner at the Gladstone Yacht Club, offering delicious menu options with stunning views of the Harbour.
Short drive from the aquatic centre
CURRENCY100, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Return to Brisbane

Brisbane, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Emporium

Enjoy a final breakfast at The Coffee Emporium, known for its comfy atmosphere and hearty meals.
Drive back from Gladstone to Brisbane, approximately 5 hours
CURRENCY70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Check-out and Departure

Check out of your accommodation and depart to Brisbane for your onward journey, taking with you beautiful memories from a wonderful family trip.
Drive from your hotel in Gladstone straight to Brisbane
CURRENCY0, 5 hours
View Hotel Availability