One Of Australia's Prettiest Coastal Road Trips Is Full Of Adventure-Packed Outdoor Stops

Australia is renowned for its gorgeous coastal landscapes, and one of the best ways to experience its beauty is by embarking on a road trip from Brisbane to the Gold Coast. You could take the direct 50-mile route along the Pacific Motorway (M1). However, this road trip doesn't have to be a race. The alternative route is the Scenic Rim — a 209-mile drive that crosses some adventure-packed outdoor stops, cultural experiences, and leisurely escapes. This journey could take one day to complete — but you can really make the most of it with a multi-day getaway and detours to Australian hidden-gem destinations.

Starting in Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, you'll find yourself in a vibrant city known for its sunny weather and bustling cultural scene. Before hitting the road, take some time to explore South Bank, a cultural precinct that boasts parks, museums (like Queensland Museum Kurilpa), and the iconic Brisbane Wheel. If you're curious about Australian wildlife, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary — the world's largest and oldest koala sanctuary — offers a chance to observe koalas up close and learn about their care, behaviors,  and conservation.

A short drive from Brisbane, Cleveland is your gateway to the stunning Moreton Bay. Here, you can catch a ferry to North Stradbroke Island, affectionately known as "Straddie." This island offers activities such as sandboarding on massive dunes, surfing, snorkeling or scuba diving in crystal-clear waters, and hiking along scenic coastal trails. Point Lookout provides panoramic views where you might spot whales and dolphins between June and November.

Heading back to the mainland, make your way towards Tamborine Mountain, part of the Gold Coast Hinterland. The Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk is an eco-adventure highlight, allowing you to walk 100 feet high among the treetops and experience the forest from a unique perspective. Don't miss the Glow Worm Caves, a purpose-built conservation cave, where you can see thousands of bioluminescent glow worms, the local species Arachnocampa flava, lighting up the dark. The area around Tamborine Mountain is also known for its wineries, particularly in Canungra. After all the action, this is the perfect spot to relax with a glass of wine and enjoy one of Australia's top-ranked regions for a wine vacation. O'Reilly's Canungra Valley Vineyards offers tastings, picnics, alpaca experiences, and various musical performances.

Canungra is a gateway to Lamington National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has 100 miles of wilderness trails. The official website lists the many available trails, from the "Rainforest Return" (a 30-minute hike that will take you through 23 million years of the park's geological history) to the "Border Track" (a challenging seven-hour trek that'll take you through the depths of the rainforest). Lamington National Park has a section of the ancient and protected Gondwana Rainforest — the largest and most significant subtropical rainforest in the world, and home to many rare and threatened species. Camping, wildlife viewing, and dramatic lookouts that offer stunning views of the Gold Coast can all be enjoyed here.

Your road trip culminates in the sunny Gold Coast, a beautiful canal town known for its stunning beaches and bustling attractions. Surfers Paradise is the heart of the Gold Coast. Spend the day surfing legendary waves, lounging on the sandy shores, or exploring the bustling Esplanade lined with shops, cafes, and ocean-view restaurants. As the sun sets, the area transforms into an after-dark nightlife hub. A short drive from Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads offer a more relaxed atmosphere without compromising on beauty and activities. Broadbeach is known for its expansive Kurrawa Beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. For thrill-seekers, theme parks like Dreamworld, Sea World, and Warner Bros. Movie World provide endless entertainment, especially if you're traveling with kids.

The best time to embark on this road trip is during the Australian spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are thinner. Depending on how long you plan to explore all the detours on this road trip, you may need to find somewhere to stay overnight. Consider staying in a mix of accommodations, from resorts on the Gold Coast to quaint bed-and-breakfasts in small towns around Tamborine Mountain, as well as various campgrounds at national parks. Bring all your travel essentials: sunblock, hats, swimwear, and hiking shoes to make the most of both beach and hinterland adventures. Pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the magic of Australia's eastern coast.