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Outdoor education with the Wyper family

Pioneers, educators and wildlings, making the most of life outdoors.

The Wypers: Outdoor Education

Photographer takes a road trip around NZ

A photographer heads out on a road trip to find the final perfect shot.

Amber: The perfect shot

Star Story: Pursue Your Dreams

A photographer couple return to New Zealand, a place that had captured their hearts five years ago.

Carina & Hannes: Pursue Your Dreams

Star Story: Slowing Down with Nature

Couple explores the South Island and they learn about the importance of the natural world around them.

Hannah & Luke: Slowing Down with Nature

RV road trip around the North Island

A father slows down time to soak up the feel of freedom with his sons, just like he did with his own Dad.

John: Like father, like son

Retired couple take a surfing road trip

A retired couple discover new things together in the outdoors.

Something new

Star Story: First times

Friends travel to New Zealand as their first trip after COVID. The trip ends in a surprise proposal.

Ben, Angelina & Noemi: First Times

A solo traveller finds peace on an NZ road trip

One man travels solo on a great New Zealand road trip to find peace.

Alex: Finding peace

Discover Australia

Star Benefits

annie-steve-reconnection

A couple's journey through Australia rekindles their connection and spirit of adventure.

Annie & Steve: Reconnection

Star Story: Matt and Olivia Reconnected

A decision to explore Australia together, a first-time experience filled with the promise of wildlife, natural wonders, and life on the road.

Olivia: Reconnected

Reconnect with nature on an Australian family road trip

An adventure seeking explorer shares his love of the outdoors with his family.

Henry: The Explorer

Joost & Willemijn: Slowing Down

An adventurous couple embrace the unknown and take their babies on a road trip across Australia. 

The Perfect One Week Southwest Road Trip 

A breath of fresh air to escape the city, get into the forest, and explore the coastline

Evan: The Perfect One Week Southwest Road Trip 

lisa-adventure-in-western-australia

From the moment we set off from Darwin, heading all the way to Perth, we knew we were in for something extraordinary. 

Lisa: Adventure in Western Australia

Surfing the waves on an Australian road trip

Always in search of the ultimate freedom, a freediver explores the Australian coastlines.

Olly: The Waterman

For an iconic journey filled with spectacular landscapes, diverse experiences, and plenty of culinary treats, road trip from Brisbane to Sydney. Never dull, this 900-kilometre Pacific Highway route passes peaceful seaside towns, hinterland trails worth the detour, and legendary stops that every traveller should pilgrimage to along this route.  

With driving distances between 1-3 hours and stops as rewarding as your motorhome is comfortable (and it’s very comfy), this Queensland to New South Wales road trip is the epitome of an effortless vacation. 

If you’re ready to embrace freedom, adventure, and life on the open road, check out our top 10 must-do stops on a Brisbane to Sydney road trip, with your [Australian motorhome rental](https://www.starrv.com/au/motorhome-hire-au). 

## Why choose a motorhome to road trip Brisbane to Sydney? 

When you travel in a motorhome, you’re choosing convenience, cosiness, and unparalleled flexibility for your Brisbane to Sydney road trip. What could give you more opportunities to be spontaneous and free than travelling with everything you need without sacrificing comfort?  

Travelling by motorhome allows you to explore further, stay longer, and wake to some of the best nature spots in Australia, sometimes with a cheeky kangaroo at your door! With the sounds of the ocean as your alarm clock, it’s easy to become fully immersed in the journey.  

Some of the perks of an [Australia motorhome hire](https://www.starrv.com/au/motorhome-hire-au) include: 

Guaranteed comfort Come rain or shine (or outback heat), you know you’re safe and dry with comfy beds, a bathroom and handy kitchen. 

Stay spontaneous Loved the look of that little farm shop? Check it out. Feel like the weather is more beachy than hiking? It’s easy to change your plans. The flexibility of life on the road means you get to be as un/scheduled as you choose. 

- **Ease on the road:** Skip nighttime toilet dashes and rooting around for coins for a hot shower, you’ve got everything you need in one tidy vehicle. 
- **Eat your way:** Whether you love dining alfresco, sampling farm-fresh produce, or are managing an allergy-free diet, travelling with a fridge and kitchen ensures you can eat your way.  
- **Travel light:** If you’re travelling by plane, you’ll love skipping packing (and carrying) tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and more.  
- **Safety is key:** Not only can you lock up your belongings (and yourself at night), but you’ve got safety in the form of our handy 24/7 roadside assistance. 
- **Camp free:** Did you know you can [free camp in Australia](https://www.starrv.com/au/discover/free-camping-australia) at hundreds of designated sites across the country, if you’re travelling in a fully self-contained vehicle (which all [Star RV vehicles](https://www.starrv.com/au/motorhome-hire-au) are)?  

## Star RV's 10 Road Trip Must-Dos from Brisbane to Sydney 

Planning a road trip can be daunting at the best of times, but when it’s on a route filled with amazing attractions, mindbogglingly beautiful scenery, and countless hidden treasures, how to choose?  

Thankfully, we’re the road trip experts! Whether you’re off on a quick jaunt or planning a longer road trip, consider these 10 road trip must-dos from Brisbane to Sydney.  

### 1. The glittering Gold Coast 

After collecting your [motorhome hire in Brisbane](https://www.starrv.com/au/motorhome-hire-locations-au/brisbane), from our branch near Brisbane Airport (we’ve assumed you’ve already [checked out Brissie](https://www.starrv.com/au/discover/things-to-do-in-brisbane-australia)), a Gold Coast stop is essential.  

While you may know the Gold Coast for Surfers Paradise and its theme parks, there’s so much more on offer. Like iconic [Burleigh Heads](https://www.destinationgoldcoast.com/places-to-go/central-gold-coast/burleigh-heads), where the culmination of the [Burleigh Heads National Park](https://parks.desi.qld.gov.au/parks/burleigh-head), gorgeous white-sand beach, and trendy eateries make for a fabulous stay. Or peaceful [Currumbin](https://destinationgoldcoast.com/places-to-go/southern-gold-coast/currumbin), where the ripper surf and award-winning [Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary](https://currumbinsanctuary.com.au/) appeal.  

If time permits, detour to the lush Gold Coast hinterland. Walk the [Twin Falls Circuit](https://www.queensland.com/au/en/plan-your-holiday/journeys/p-56b2624b7b935fbe730e20f1-twin-falls-circuit-springbrook-national-park) in Springbrook National Park or explore the spectacular rainforest walks of [Lamington National Park](https://parks.desi.qld.gov.au/parks/lamington).  

**Best campground:** Ninety minutes south of Brisbane, centrally located [Burleigh Beach Tourist Park](https://goldcoasttouristparks.com.au/parks/burleigh-beach/powered-site) has powered sites and fab facilities.  

 ![Gold Coast.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Gold_Coast_336b1938e1/Gold_Coast_336b1938e1.jpeg) 

### 2. Boho Byron Bay 

The pristine beaches, wellness-focused attractions, and boho vibes of [Byron Bay](https://byronbay.com/) make this a popular stop on a Brisbane to Sydney road trip. A sunrise walk to Cape Byron Lighthouse, the most easterly point in mainland Australia, is a must. Between ocean dips and choosing which Byron beach is your favourite (our pick? Wategos!), check out the town’s boutique shops, organic cafés, and hip nightlife. 

For a break from the Byron buzz, head to picturesque hinterland towns like [Bangalow](https://byronbay.com/bangalow/) and hippie haven [Nimbin](https://www.visitnimbin.com.au/), where quaint stores, lively markets, and tasty artisanal goods for your motorhome fridge delight. For something out of the ordinary, visit [Crystal Castle](https://www.crystalcastle.com.au/).  

**Best campground:** An hour from Burleigh, Reflections Byron Holiday Park is a central beachside campground close to the action. 

 ![Byron Bay.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Byron_Bay_7ffb96b918/Byron_Bay_7ffb96b918.jpeg) 

### 3. Relaxing Yamba 

An up-and-coming Northern New South Wales beach town, [Yamba](https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/clarence-valley/yamba) is the way Byron Bay once was. Charming, peaceful, and scenic, it’s an ideal spot to reclaim your inner peace and dive deeper into holiday mode.  

A dip in the famous Yamba Main Beach ocean pool and [Angourie blue and green swimming holes](https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/clarence-valley/yamba/attractions/angourie-blue-and-green-pools) are summer rites of passage. If you’re up for a hike, take the 6-kilometre trail to Durrangan Look; it goes via Angourie pool. For a splurge, [dine at the Pacific Hotel](https://www.pacifichotelyamba.com.au/restaurant/) where the view is as exceptional as the creative degustation menu (lower budget meals are also available). 

**Best campground:** [Calypso Yamba Holiday Park](https://clarencecoastholidayparks.com.au/our-parks/calypso-yamba) is 90 minutes from Bryon. Its Clarence River location, ample facilities - including pool, laundry, and free Wi-Fi - and easy access to Yamba’s key attractions make it an ideal base.  

 ![Yamba Ocean Pool.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Yamba_Ocean_Pool_7ac5df5a8c/Yamba_Ocean_Pool_7ac5df5a8c.jpeg) 

### 4. Ancient Dorrigo National Park  

While Coffs Harbour is a great spot to stop en route (snap a selfie at the Big Banana), we rate a hinterland stay near [Dorrigo National Park ](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/dorrigo-national-park) for a change of pace. This ancient rainforest is part of the [UNESCO Gondwana Rainforests of Australia](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/conservation-and-heritage/gondwana-rainforests-of-australia); it's a privilege to walk amid species that are 60 million years old on trails like Wonga Walk. Outside the park, visit the 30-metre gushing [Dangar Falls](https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/coffs-harbour-area/dorrigo/attractions/dangar-falls). 

If marine wonders are more your vibe, snorkel or dive the coral reefs at the [Solitary Islands Marine Park](https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/coffs-harbour-area/coffs-harbour/attractions/solitary-islands-marine-park) in Coffs Harbour.  

Best campground: We love the proximity and peace of [Dorrigo Mountain Holiday Park](https://dorrigomountainholidaypark.com.au/accommodation/caravan-sites-powered/), 2.5 hours from Yamba.  

 ![Dangar Falls, Dorrigo.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Dangar_Falls_Dorrigo_ec2c7dd5c4/Dangar_Falls_Dorrigo_ec2c7dd5c4.jpeg) 

### 5. The secrets of South West Rocks 

Often omitted from Brisbane to Sydney road trip itineraries, get off the beaten path to explore [South West Rocks](https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/macleay-valley-coast/south-west-rocks). Lesser known but no less charming, South West Rocks offers gorgeous beaches, the beautiful Arakoon National Park, and panoramic views from Smoky Cape Lighthouse.  

Connect to the region’s history at the [Trial Bay Gaol](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/historic-buildings-places/trial-bay-gaol), followed by a walk along the [Powder Magazine](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/powder-magazine-walking-track) or [Monument Hill](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/monument-hill-walking-track) tracks for exceptional views. 

For qualified divers, scuba Australia’s only true ocean cave at [Fish Rock](https://swrdive.com.au/pages/dive-sites). Expect the company of hammerhead sharks from October to January!  

**Best campground:** Ninety minutes from Dorrigo, camp with the ocean on your doorstep at [Trial Bay Gaol campground](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/camping-and-accommodation/campgrounds/trial-bay-gaol-campground). 

 ![Smoky Cape Lighthouse, South West Rocks.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Smoky_Cape_Lighthouse_South_West_Rocks_bf2580bfb0/Smoky_Cape_Lighthouse_South_West_Rocks_bf2580bfb0.jpeg) 

### 6. Chill-as Crowdy Bay  

[Crowdy Bay](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/crowdy-bay-national-park) has one of the [best national park campgrounds in NSW](https://www.starrv.com/au/discover/best-nsw-national-parks-camping), thanks to its gorgeous beachside location. An idyllic place to snorkel, hike, watch the resident kangaroos, or laze with a good book, a stay here encapsulates a true Australian beach break. 

En route to Crowdy Bay, spend some time checking out [Port Macquarie](https://www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au/), where history, nature, and adventure combine. Recommended stops include [Port Macquarie Museum](https://portmuseum.org.au/), [Koala Hospital](https://koalahospital.org.au/pages/visit), or [Walk n’ Fork](https://www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au/blog/walk-n-fork), an 8-kilometre trail dotted with cafés and swim spots.  

**Best campground:** [Diamond Head Campground](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/camping-and-accommodation/campgrounds/diamond-head-campground) is 90 minutes from South West Rocks with 75 unpowered beach-and-bush campsites, plus showers, toilets, picnic tables, and BBQs.  

 ![Sunrise-with-kangaroos-at-Diamond-Head-by-Matt-Cramer.png](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Sunrise_with_kangaroos_at_Diamond_Head_by_Matt_Cramer_d86d19d368/Sunrise_with_kangaroos_at_Diamond_Head_by_Matt_Cramer_d86d19d368.png) 

### 7. Adventuresome Port Stephens 

A [Port Stephens](https://www.portstephens.org.au/see-and-do/things-to-do/) visit is easily filled with adventure, fun, and awe. Why? Because besides its scenic waterways and 26 stunning beaches, there are [dolphins](https://www.portstephens.org.au/see-and-do/the-water/dolphin-whale-and-water-cruises/) to spy, 4WD, [quad biking and horse-riding tours](https://worimiconservationlands.com/guided-tours-2/), plus dunes to slide down!  

You’ll find the latter at the Stockton Sand Dunes in the Worimi Conservation Lands, managed by the traditional custodians. Learn more about the Worimi people at [Birubi Point Aboriginal Place](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/aboriginal-sites/birubi-point-aboriginal-place).  

[Tomaree National Park](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/tomaree-national-park) is another Port Stephens gem. While challenging, the coastal views on the [Tomaree Head Summit Walk](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/tomaree-head-summit-walk) make the 2-hour leg workout worth it. If you prefer a more chill experience in the park, head to Fingal Bay or Birubi Beach for a swim.  

Prefer a bustling city stay? Nearby [Newcastle](https://www.visitnewcastle.com.au/) has arts, culture, tasty culinary delights, and the largest ocean bath in the southern hemisphere. 

**Best campground:** Nestled between two scenic beaches, two and a half hours from Crowdy Bay, [Halifax Holiday Park’s](https://www.beachsideholidays.com.au/booking/check-availability/halifaxhp) modern amenities and proximity to attractions make it hard to beat.  

 ![Tomaree Heads.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Tomaree_Heads_8c4e74451b/Tomaree_Heads_8c4e74451b.jpeg) 

### 8. Celebratory Hunter Valley 

Wine lovers rejoice at an inland detour to the Hunter Valley’s 150+ wineries. It isn’t just a destination to enjoy an array of tipples at [Australia’s oldest wine region](https://www.winecountry.com.au/wine). There’s also [gourmet food](https://www.winecountry.com.au/dine), the pretty [Hunter Valley Gardens](https://www.huntervalleygardens.com.au/), and several adventure activities like hot air balloon and horseback rides.  

To ensure no one is stuck as the sober driver, consider renting an e-bike, taking the [Hop-on-hop-off wine bus](https://ihophuntervalley.com.au/hop-on-hop-off-bus/) or booking a [Hunter Valley wine tour](https://www.visitnsw.com/articles/hunter-valley-wine-tours-and-experiences).  

**Best campground:** An hour from Port Stephens, [Wine Country Tourist Park](https://winecountrytouristpark.com.au/accommodation/) is an ideal spot to explore the local vineyards. 

 ![Hunter Valley.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Hunter_Valley_cf53068512/Hunter_Valley_cf53068512.jpeg) 

### 9. The sublime Central Coast 

The [Central Coast](https://www.lovecentralcoast.com/) has beautiful beaches, scenic bushwalks, and charming towns to entice. Like the soul-enriching [Bouddi National Park](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/bouddi-national-park), where the ocean meets the rainforest. Hike the trails (including the renowned [Bouddi Coastal Walk](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/bouddi-coastal-walk)), swim at Putty Beach or Maitland Bay or visit some of the park’s 100+ culturally significant Aboriginal sites, including [Daleys Point](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/daleys-point-walking-track).  

Along the coast, [Avoca Beach](https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/central-coast/gosford-area/avoca-beach) wows with its laidback atmosphere and excellent surfing conditions. Alternatively, [paddleboard Tuggerah Lakes](https://www.lovecentralcoast.com/news/paddling-guide-to-sup-and-kayaking-on-the-central-coast) or enjoy a sunset cocktail in [Terrigal](https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/central-coast/gosford-area/terrigal).  

**Best campground:** We rate the [NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort](https://www.nrmaparksandresorts.com.au/ocean-beach/) for its excellent facilities and central location between Bouddi National Park and beaches. It’s 90 minutes from the Hunter Valley.  

 ![Avoca Beach.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Avoca_Beach_bcb89fed2e/Avoca_Beach_bcb89fed2e.jpeg) 

### 10. The wild Blue Mountains  

For a dramatic change of scenery, head inland to the Blue Mountains. The rugged cliffs, deep valleys, verdant forests, and eucalypt blue haze reveal a different side to New South Wales, one equally as enchanting!  

Standing in awe of the [Three Sisters](https://www.bluemts.com.au/info/thingstodo/threesisters/) rock formation is a must-do, as is a [Scenic World](https://www.scenicworld.com.au/) where you can ride a train, cable car or enjoy a boardwalk stroll in the temperate forest.  

For the best hiking trails, consider the [Grand Canyon](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/grand-canyon-track) or [Charles Darwin](https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/blue-mountains/katoomba-area/wentworth-falls/attractions/charles-darwin-walk) tracks. Nature lovers enjoy searching for [glowworms in a tunnel at Newnes Plateau](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/glow-worm-tunnel-walking-track), and heading underground at the [Jenolan Caves](https://www.jenolancaves.org.au/), Australia’s largest cave system. 

**Best campground:** [Katoomba Falls Tourist Park](https://www.katoombatouristpark.com.au/) is centrally located and 2.5 hours from the Central Coast and 90 minutes to our [Sydney motorhome hire](https://www.starrv.com/au/motorhome-hire-locations-au/sydney) branch. 

 ![Three Sisters, Blue Mountains.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Three_Sisters_Blue_Mountains_f7f5014aa9/Three_Sisters_Blue_Mountains_f7f5014aa9.jpeg) 

### A Brisbane to Sydney road trip is one of discovery, adventure, and expansion
Enjoy an immersive and personalised journey in a Star RV motorhome.  

Road-tripping the Pacific Highway awakens your adventurous spirit, recalibrates the mind, and reminds you of the joy of spontaneity and play. Motorhome travel allows you to set your own pace, camp in style at stunning locations, and enjoy freedom and flexibility as you travel. 

If you’re ready to embark on a Brisbane to Sydney East Coast escapade in an [Australian motorhome rental](https://www.starrv.com/au/motorhome-hire-au), click [BOOK NOW](https://bookings.starrv.com/obe/direct?_gl=1*1cj7b6z*_gcl_au*NzAwODkyNzUxLjE3MjE1OTQyNTg.*_ga*MTc1NzU0NjM1My4xNzEzNzM3MTg2*_ga_6VS54J2Y0G*MTcyMTYxMTg3OC44Ny4xLjE3MjE2MTI4NDUuNTguMC4w) or call our team on [1800 875 018](Href=tel:1800875018). 

Featuring scenic landscapes, charming towns, and culinary delights along the iconic Pacific Highway.

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10 must-dos on your Brisbane to Sydney road trip