Sydney to Brisbane Roadtrip Guide

Sydney to Brisbane Roadtrip Guide

Planning a road trip up the East Coast? The Sydney to Brisbane drive is one of Australia’s most scenic journeys, and you can do it for as little as $1/day. Thanks to Imoova’s campervan rental and car rental relocation deals, hitting the road has never been more affordable – or more fun. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best 5-day Sydney to Brisbane itinerary, including must-see spots, local eats, and the best campervan-friendly campsites to rest your head.

Why Choose Imoova For Your Roadtrip?

Imoova connects travellers with discounted campervan relocation and car rental deals from top rental companies such as Jucy and Avis. These vehicles need to be relocated between cities – like Sydney to Brisbane – so you get them for as low as $1/day, often with some fuel or tolls included.

Perfect for backpackers, budget travellers, and spontaneous adventurers.

📍 Day 1 – Sydney to Newcastle (160 km / 2 hrs)

Leave Sydney behind and cruise up the Pacific Motorway. Stretch your legs at the Australian Reptile Park, then head to Newcastle’s Nobbys Beach for a swim.

Where to camp:

• 🏕 NRMA Stockton Beach Holiday Park – beachfront, powered sites, showers

• 🏕 Belmont Lakeside Holiday Park – peaceful lake views

Food Stops:

• ☕ The Boathouse Balmoral – perfect for a beachy brunch before leaving town

• 🍔 The Happy Wombat (Newcastle) – modern Aussie pub food, vegetarian-friendly

• 🍕 Napoli Centrale Pizza Bar – authentic woodfired pizza in Newcastle

Campervan tip: If your rental includes kitchen facilities, stock up on groceries in Sydney before hitting smaller towns.

📍 Day 2 – Newcastle to Port Macquarie (250 km / 3.5 hrs)

Take the scenic route through Forster and Tuncurry, then continue to Port Macquarie. Visit the Koala Hospital, stroll along the Breakwall, and relax by the river. Grab fish and chips from the marina and enjoy them at Town Green.

Where to camp:

• 🏕 NRMA Port Macquarie Breakwall Holiday Park – top location near town and the beach

• 🏕 Flynns Beach Caravan Park – shaded sites, walking distance to the beach

Food Stops:

• 🐟 Beach Bums Café (Forster) – relaxed, beachfront breakfast or lunch

• 🍔 Burger Rebellion (Port Macquarie) – local favourite with creative burgers

• 🍨 Blue Cow Gelato – handcrafted ice cream for an afternoon treat

📍 Day 3 – Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour (160 km / 2 hrs)

After a morning beach stop at Nambucca Heads, head to Coffs Harbour to visit the Big Banana and try some iconic banana pancakes, hit the beach, and explore the markets.

Where to camp:

• 🏕 BIG4 Park Beach Holiday Park – family-friendly, right on the beach

• 🏕 Reflections Holiday Park Coffs Harbour – riverside, great amenities

Food Stops:

• 🍳 The Green Room (Nambucca Heads) – cosy café with excellent coffee and brekkie

• 🍤 Lime Mexican (Coffs Harbour) – budget-friendly Mexican with great vibes

• 🥗 Old John's Café – hip spot for brunch and quality espresso

Budget tip: Look for relocation campervans with fuel included – another big saver!

📍 Day 4 – Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay (240 km / 3 hrs)

Pass through Yamba or Lennox Head before reaching iconic Byron Bay. Enjoy surf, sunsets, and chilled-out cafés. Don’t miss the Cape Byron Lighthouse walk.

Where to camp:

• 🏕 First Sun Holiday Park – prime beachfront location

• 🏕 Byron Holiday Park – nestled in bushland, great for nature lovers

Food Stops:

• ☕ Palmers Island Café (Yamba) – riverside coffee and toasties

• 🥙 BayGer (Byron Bay) – fresh local burgers with vegan options

• 🍝 Trattoria Basiloco – authentic Italian and woodfired pizzas

• 🍓 The Farm Byron Bay – stop for a coffee and stroll through the gardens

📍 Day 5 – Byron Bay to Brisbane (165 km / 2 hrs)

Enjoy your final beach stop at Burleigh Heads or Coolangatta, then drive into Brisbane to explore South Bank, the Botanic Gardens, and West End.

Where to camp (if dropping off next day):

• 🏕 Brisbane Holiday Village – resort-style amenities, 15 mins to city

• 🏕 Gateway Lifestyle Redland Bay – great for early morning drop-offs

Food Stops:

• 🍳 Paddock Bakery (Burleigh Heads) – Insta-famous spot with next-level pastries

• 🍛 Govinda’s (Brisbane) – hearty, budget vegetarian meals

• 🍜 Eat Street Northshore (Brisbane, weekends) – huge selection of global vendors

The Sydney to Brisbane drive is a rite of passage for any road tripper – and now, thanks to Imoova, it’s more accessible than ever. Enjoy 5 days of scenic coastline, surf towns, and adventure, all from the comfort of your campervan for just $1/day.

👉 Browse deals now at imoova.com and kick off your road trip the smart way!