7-Day Coastal Adventure: Sydney to Byron Bay with Stops at Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie, and Exploring Nimbin, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast

Day 1: Sydney to Coffs Harbour

Sydney to Coffs Harbour, Australia on June 7, 2025

7:00am

Depart Sydney

Start your journey early from Sydney heading north on the Pacific Highway towards Coffs Harbour, aiming to avoid peak hour traffic for a smoother drive.
AUD0, 4h0m

11:30am

Breakfast at Old John's Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast with fresh local produce and great coffee at this popular Coffs Harbour spot.
AUD40, 1h0m

1:00pm

Coffs Harbour Jetty and Marina

Stroll along the scenic jetty and marina area, taking in ocean views and local marine life before checking into your accommodation.
AUD0, 1h30m

3:00pm

Check-in at BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort

Relax and freshen up at this beachfront resort, which offers beautiful ocean views and comfortable amenities.
AUD260, Check-in duration

6:30pm

Dinner at Latitude 30

Dine at this acclaimed restaurant known for its fresh seafood and contemporary Australian cuisine, perfect to end your first day.
AUD120, 2h0m
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Day 2: Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay

Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay, Australia on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Happy Frog

Start with a healthy breakfast at this friendly café offering delicious eggs and fresh juices.
AUD35, 1h0m

9:30am

Depart for Byron Bay

Drive from Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay along the scenic Pacific Highway, approximately 2.5 hours.
AUD0, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Farm Byron Bay

Enjoy farm-to-table dining amongst beautiful rural surroundings with fresh local ingredients in an organic setting.
AUD70, 1h30m

2:00pm

Check-in at Byron at Byron Resort

Relax at this luxury rainforest resort offering tranquility just minutes from Byron Bay’s town centre.
AUD400, Check-in duration

4:30pm

Byron Bay Lighthouse Walk

Explore the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse and enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean at sunset.
AUD0, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at St. Elmo Dining Room & Bar

Savour creative contemporary cuisine with a Mexican twist in this vibrant dining room.
AUD100, 2h0m
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Day 3: Byron Bay and Nimbin Day Trip

Byron Bay and Nimbin, Australia on June 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bayleaf Café

Fuel up with artisan coffee and healthy breakfast options in the heart of Byron Bay.
AUD30, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Nimbin

Take a scenic 45-minute drive to the unique village of Nimbin, famous for its alternative culture and colourful street art.
AUD0, 45m

10:00am

Explore Nimbin Village

Discover local galleries, craft shops, and the iconic Nimbin Hemp Embassy, soaking in the distinct vibe of the town.
AUD0, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Nimbin Bakery

Enjoy hearty bakery fare and pies, a perfect stop before heading back to Byron Bay.
AUD40, 1h0m

2:00pm

Return to Byron Bay

Head back to Byron Bay for an afternoon free for beach relaxation or local shopping.
AUD0, 45m

3:00pm

Relax at Wategos Beach

Spend a relaxing afternoon swimming or sunbathing at this beautiful and quieter beach near Byron Bay.
AUD0, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Balcony Bar & Oyster Co.

Dine on fresh oysters and local seafood complemented by stunning views of Byron’s Main Beach.
AUD110, 2h0m
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Day 4: Byron Bay to Brisbane

Byron Bay to Brisbane, Australia on June 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Folk Byron Bay

Enjoy a vibrant breakfast with fresh, organic dishes to start your journey north to Brisbane.
AUD35, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Brisbane

Travel approximately 2 hours north from Byron Bay to Brisbane city, Queensland’s capital.
AUD0, 2h0m

11:00am

Visit South Bank Parklands

Relax and explore the riverside parklands featuring gardens, markets, and cultural landmarks like the Queensland Art Gallery.
AUD0, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Stokehouse Q

Experience Brisbane’s finest waterfront dining with a focus on fresh seafood and modern Australian cuisine.
AUD90, 1h30m

3:00pm

Explore Brisbane Botanic Gardens & City Walk

Enjoy a leisurely walk through the lush Gardens and the vibrant Brisbane CBD, including a visit to the Kangaroo Point Cliffs for river views.
AUD0, 2h0m

6:00pm

Check-in at W Brisbane

Settle into luxury accommodation in central Brisbane with great facilities to refresh before dinner.
AUD350, Check-in duration

7:30pm

Dinner at Gerard’s Bistro

Enjoy inventive Middle Eastern and Mediterranean inspired dishes in a stylish city setting.
AUD100, 2h0m
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Day 5: Gold Coast Day Trip

Brisbane to Gold Coast to Byron Bay, Australia on June 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Brew - An Espresso Bar

Grab a great coffee and quick bite before heading south towards the Gold Coast.
AUD25, 45m

8:30am

Drive to Gold Coast

A 1-hour drive south to explore the famous beaches and attractions of the Gold Coast.
AUD0, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Surfers Paradise Beach

Relax on the iconic beach, watch surfers or take a stroll along the lively esplanade.
AUD0, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Rick Shores

Dine with stunning views at this trendy spot known for its Asian-inspired coastal cuisine.
AUD110, 1h30m

1:45pm

Visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Get close to native Australian animals including koalas, kangaroos and enjoy interactive wildlife experiences.
AUD66, 2h0m

4:00pm

Drive back to Byron Bay

Return to your Byron Bay accommodation for a relaxed evening.
AUD0, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Rae’s on Wategos

Enjoy a romantic dinner with sweeping ocean views, offering fresh seafood and local produce.
AUD120, 2h0m
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Day 6: Byron Bay Leisure Day

Byron Bay, Australia on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Combi

Relax with a vibrant breakfast at this quirky cafe serving innovative dishes and excellent coffee.
AUD35, 1h0m

9:30am

Kayaking with Dolphins

Join a two-hour guided kayaking tour in Byron Bay, where you might spot playful dolphins and other marine life (booking advised).
AUD160, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Folk Byron Bay

Enjoy organic, fresh food in a beautiful garden setting perfect for a mid-day meal.
AUD60, 1h0m

2:00pm

Shopping and Exploring Byron Market

Browse local art, crafts, and unique boutiques around the town centre or visit the Byron Bay Markets if open.
AUD0, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Clarkes Beach

Spend a quiet sunset at one of Byron’s favourite beaches, ideal for a calm end to the day.
AUD0, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Three Blue Ducks

Enjoy modern rustic Australian dishes with a focus on sustainability and fresh produce.
AUD110, 2h0m
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Day 7: Byron Bay to Port Macquarie

Byron Bay to Port Macquarie, Australia on June 13, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at The Top Shop

Grab a quick and delicious breakfast-to-go from this popular local bakery before departure.
AUD25, 30m

7:30am

Drive to Port Macquarie

Enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive down the coast to Port Macquarie.
AUD0, 3h0m

11:00am

Koala Hospital Tour

Visit the famous Koala Hospital to learn about wildlife conservation and see koalas up close. Open 8:30am-5:00pm.
AUD10 donation suggested, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Stunned Mullet

Dine at a highly regarded, award-winning restaurant focusing on fresh local seafood and seasonal produce.
AUD100, 1h30m

2:30pm

Check-in at Sails Port Macquarie

Relax at your waterfront accommodation with a pool and spa facilities.
AUD280, Check-in duration

4:30pm

Explore Town Beach and Breakwall

Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque breakwall, a great spot for photos and ocean views.
AUD0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Zinc Port Macquarie

Enjoy contemporary dishes with a local twist in a relaxed, modern atmosphere.
AUD90, 2h0m
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Day 8: Port Macquarie to Sydney

Port Macquarie to Sydney, Australia on June 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Café Aqua

Start your day with a waterside breakfast featuring fresh, quality coffee and light options.
AUD30, 1h0m

8:30am

Depart for Sydney

Begin your approximately 4.5-hour drive back to Sydney along the Pacific Highway, aiming for an uncomplicated journey.
AUD0, 4h30m

1:00pm

Optional lunch stop at Newcastle

Break your drive with a casual lunch at Newcastle’s waterfront, such as at Kingsley’s Steak & Crabhouse.
AUD70, 1h0m

2:30pm

Continue drive to Sydney

Complete your drive arriving back in Sydney by mid-afternoon.
AUD0, 1h30m
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