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Family-Friendly Adventure Road Trip from Brisbane to Melbourne

Viewed by 768 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Brisbane

Brisbane, Australia

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Grey Street Restaurant

Start your journey with a hearty breakfast featuring local produce and stunning river views.
Begin at The Grey Street Restaurant near South Bank.
AUD 80, 1 Hour

10:30AM

Explore South Bank Parklands

Take a stroll through the lush gardens and enjoy the man-made beach with the family.
A short walk from your breakfast spot.
Free, 2 Hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Charming Squire

Enjoy a relaxed lunch with craft beers and delicious burgers in this stylish venue.
Head to The Charming Squire, just 5 minutes away by car.
AUD 120, 1.5 Hours

2:00PM

Visit the Queensland Museum

Explore the fascinating exhibits from dinosaurs to indigenous history at this kid-friendly museum.
Drive 10 minutes to the South Bank area.
Free, 2.5 Hours

5:00PM

Check-in at hotel

Relax and refresh before dinner; recommend staying at a family-friendly hotel in the city center.
Return to your accommodation in the city.
AUD 200, 1 Hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Eat Street Northshore

Taste a variety of international street foods in a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
Drive 15 minutes to Eat Street Northshore.
AUD 100, 2 Hours
Find Hotels in Brisbane

Day 2: Gold Coast Fun

Gold Coast, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bumbles Cafe

Indulge in a delightful breakfast with a beachside vibe before heading to the beach.
Drive 1 hour to Gold Coast from Brisbane.
AUD 90, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Visit Surfers Paradise Beach

Enjoy some sun, sand, and surf in one of Australia's most famous beach spots.
Walk to Surfers Paradise Beach nearby.
Free, 3 Hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Gecko's Restaurant

Enjoy a family-friendly meal with options for everyone after a fun morning at the beach.
5 minutes from the beach by car.
AUD 110, 1.5 Hours

2:30PM

Visit Infinity Attraction

Experience an immersive journey through a world of illusions and special effects; it's a hit with kids!
Drive 10 minutes from lunch spot.
AUD 150, 2 Hours

5:00PM

Check-in at hotel

Unwind at a family-friendly hotel with pools and beach access.
Head to your hotel in Gold Coast.
AUD 250, 1 Hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe

Enjoy a lively dining experience with classic American dishes and rock memorabilia.
A 7-minute drive from your hotel.
AUD 130, 2 Hours
Find Hotels in Gold Coast

Day 3: Byron Bay Day Trip

Byron Bay, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Byron Bay General Store

Grab fresh pastries and coffee from this iconic local spot.
Drive 1.5 hours from Gold Coast to Byron Bay.
AUD 60, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Visit Cape Byron Lighthouse

Take a scenic walk to Australia’s most eastern point and enjoy breathtaking ocean views.
Drive from the General Store, a short trip.
Free, 1.5 Hours

11:30AM

Explore the Byron Bay Beach

Relax or take a dip at this beautiful beach known for great surf and family-friendly spots.
Short walk from lighthouse.
Free, 2 Hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Beach Hotel

Enjoy delicious local seafood while overlooking the ocean.
Walk five minutes to the Beach Hotel.
AUD 120, 1.5 Hours

3:00PM

Visit Tallow Beach

A family-friendly place to relax, swim, or do some beachcombing in a less crowded spot.
Drive to Tallow Beach, about 15 minutes away.
Free, 2.5 Hours

5:45PM

Drive back to Gold Coast

Head back to your accommodation to freshen up after a fun day.
1.5-hour drive back.
N/A, 1.5 Hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Koi Dining & Lounge Bar

Indulge in Asian-inspired dishes in a classy but relaxed atmosphere.
5-minute drive from hotel.
AUD 140, 2 Hours
Find Hotels in Byron Bay

Day 4: Coffs Harbour Adventure

Coffs Harbour, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Aqua

Savor a delicious breakfast with ocean views before your journey to Coffs Harbour.
Drive 2 hours from Gold Coast to Coffs Harbour.
AUD 100, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Visit The Big Banana

Kids will enjoy this fun park featuring a giant banana and loads of interactive activities.
Just 5 minutes from the cafe.
AUD 80, 2 Hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Coffs Harbour Health Food Shop & Cafe

Enjoy a wholesome lunch with gluten-free, vegetarian-friendly options for all dietary needs.
Located 10 minutes away from The Big Banana.
AUD 70, 1.5 Hours

1:30PM

Explore Coffs Harbour Jetty

Relax or take a family picture with the picturesque view of the harbor.
A short drive to Coffs Harbour Jetty.
Free, 1 Hour

2:30PM

Visit Solitary Islands Marine Park

Take a short boat tour to explore marine life, or simply relax on the beach; a perfect family activity.
Drive for 15 minutes to the park.
AUD 150, 3 Hours

5:30PM

Check-in at hotel

Find your family-friendly accommodation that has entertainment offerings like a pool and games room.
Return to your hotel in Coffs Harbour.
AUD 200, 1 Hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Landing Dockside Restaurant

Enjoy a waterfront dinner featuring fresh seafood and local produce.
7-minute drive from hotel.
AUD 140, 2 Hours
Find Hotels in Coffs Harbour

Day 5: Port Macquarie Day Trip

Port Macquarie, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for the day ahead.
Enjoy the hotel’s breakfast offerings.
Included with stay, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Visit Koala Hospital

Explore this unique facility dedicated to the rehabilitation of injured koalas, a must for kids!
Drive approximately 40 minutes to Port Macquarie.
Free, 1.5 Hours

11:00AM

Visit Port Macquarie Beach

Let the kids play in the sand while you soak up the sun at this lovely beach.
Drive 10 minutes from the Koala Hospital.
Free, 2 Hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Stunned Mullet

Feast on local dishes prepared with fresh, local produce and stunning views of the ocean.
A 5-minute drive from the beach.
AUD 150, 1.5 Hours

2:30PM

Explore the Coastal Walk

Enjoy a scenic walk along the coastline with stunning ocean views and a chance for family photos.
Drive 10 minutes from The Stunned Mullet.
Free, 2.5 Hours

5:00PM

Drive back to Coffs Harbour

Relax on your drive back and reflect on a great day!
Drive back takes approximately 40 minutes.
N/A, 1 Hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Pacific Inn

Enjoy a classic pub-style meal with a family-friendly ambiance.
10-minute drive from your hotel.
AUD 100, 1.5 Hours
Find Hotels in Port Macquarie

Day 6: Hunter Valley Indulgence

Hunter Valley, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before heading out for the day's adventures.
Enjoy the hotel’s offerings.
Included with stay, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Drive to Hunter Valley

Travel to Hunter Valley, famous for its wineries and stunning scenery.
Drive 2.5 hours from Coffs Harbour.
N/A, 2.5 Hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cellar Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious farm-to-table lunch in the heart of wine country.
Arrive in Hunter Valley, easy access to the restaurant.
AUD 130, 1.5 Hours

1:30PM

Visit Hunter Valley Gardens

Explore the spectacular flower displays and themed gardens, fun for the entire family.
Just a short drive from lunch.
AUD 90, 2 Hours

4:00PM

Wine Tasting at a Local Vineyard

While the adults taste local wines, the kids can enjoy grape juice and play in the beautiful grounds.
Drive to a local vineyard within 10 minutes.
AUD 50, 2 Hours

6:30PM

Check-in at hotel

Settle into your accommodation in Hunter Valley, designed for families.
Go straight to your hotel after wine tasting.
AUD 250, 1 Hour

8:00PM

Dinner at The Convent Hunter Valley

Enjoy an exquisite dining experience that features local ingredients and fine wines.
Just a drive away from your hotel.
AUD 140, 2 Hours
Find Hotels in Hunter Valley

Day 7: Sydney Exploration

Sydney, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Start your day with a family breakfast at your Hunter Valley hotel.
Enjoy hotel dining.
Included with stay, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Drive to Sydney

Prepare for an exciting day in Australia’s iconic city!
Travel 2 hours to Sydney.
N/A, 2 Hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sydney Fish Market

Try fresh seafood in a bustling market; a must-visit for a culinary experience.
Make your way to the Fish Market upon arrival.
AUD 100, 1.5 Hours

1:30PM

Explore Sydney Opera House

Take a guided tour of this iconic landmark, fascinating for the whole family.
A short drive from the Fish Market.
AUD 120, 2 Hours

3:30PM

Walk through The Royal Botanic Garden

Enjoy beautiful gardens and a picnic space with stunning harbor views.
Walk five minutes from the Opera House.
Free, 1.5 Hours

5:00PM

Check-in at hotel

Relax at your comfortably booked family hotel in the heart of Sydney.
Return to the hotel.
AUD 300, 1 Hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Rocks

Explore the dining options at The Rocks and enjoy dinner with a view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
A quick walk from your hotel.
AUD 150, 2 Hours
Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 8: Canberra Bound

Canberra, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy breakfast before departing for the capital city.
Delight in your hotel’s breakfast options.
Included with stay, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Drive to Canberra

Travel to Australia's capital city to explore its rich history.
Drive for 3 hours to Canberra.
N/A, 3 Hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Canberra Centre Food Court

Enjoy a variety of cuisines in this family-friendly and vibrant food court.
Located in the city center.
AUD 80, 1.5 Hours

2:00PM

Visit National Museum of Australia

Interactive exhibits make learning about Australia's history fun for all ages.
Walk to the museum from the food court.
Free, 2 Hours

4:00PM

Visit Australian National Botanic Gardens

Enjoy a leisurely walk through the beautiful gardens and learn about native flora.
A short drive away from the museum.
Free, 1.5 Hours

5:30PM

Check-in at hotel

Relax and refresh at a hotel suited for families visiting Canberra.
Return to your accommodation.
AUD 200, 1 Hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Boat House

Indulge in a fine dining experience with water views and fresh produce.
Just a few minutes drive from your hotel.
AUD 180, 2 Hours
Find Hotels in Canberra

Day 9: The Great Ocean Road

Great Ocean Road, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Fuel up before embarking on an exciting drive along one of the world's most scenic routes.
Enjoy your hotel's breakfast options.
Included with stay, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Drive to The Great Ocean Road

Begin your journey exploring iconic landmarks and breathtaking coastal views.
Head out early for the longest scenic drive.
N/A, 3 Hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Apollo Bay Hotel

Enjoy a casual lunch with views of the ocean, refueling for the next leg of your adventure.
Stop at Apollo Bay on the Great Ocean Road.
AUD 120, 1.5 Hours

2:30PM

Visit Twelve Apostles

Marvel at the stunning limestone formations, an unforgettable experience for the family.
Drive about 30 minutes from lunch.
Free, 2 Hours

4:30PM

Explore Loch Ard Gorge

Discover this picturesque spot known for its dramatic cliffs and rich shipwreck history.
10-minute drive from Twelve Apostles.
Free, 1.5 Hours

6:00PM

Drive to Melbourne

Finish your day driving to Melbourne, where more adventures await.
Drive 2.5 hours to your hotel.
N/A, 2.5 Hours

8:30PM

Dinner at The Meat & Wine Co.

End your road trip enjoying a delicious meal renowned for its steaks and extensive wine list.
Arrive in Melbourne and drive to The Meat & Wine Co.
AUD 200, 2 Hours
Find Hotels in Great Ocean Road

Day 10: Explore Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Hardware Societe

Savor a fantastic breakfast known for its French flair and creative menu to start your day right.
Easy drive to the cafe from your hotel.
AUD 90, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Visit Melbourne Zoo

Explore the diverse world of wildlife at this family-friendly attraction; kids will love it!
Drive about 20 minutes away.
AUD 150, 2.5 Hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Melbourne Fish Market

Enjoy fresh seafood while sitting by the water; a perfect family stop.
Drive to the Fish Market within 15 minutes.
AUD 100, 1.5 Hours

1:30PM

Explore Royal Botanic Gardens

Relax and enjoy the beauty of flora; kids can run and play in the open space.
Drive 10 minutes from the Fish Market.
Free, 2 Hours

3:30PM

Visit Eureka Skydeck

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the city; a fun adventure for the family.
Drive 10 minutes from the gardens.
AUD 80, 2 Hours

5:30PM

Check-in at hotel

Conclude your adventures with a comfortable stay in Melbourne's city center for the night.
Return to your accommodation to wind down.
AUD 200, 1 Hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Supernormal

Wrap up your trip with delicious Asian-inspired dishes in a family-friendly setting.
Head out from your hotel, just a short drive away.
AUD 130, 2 Hours
Find Hotels in Melbourne
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