Brisbane to Cape Tribulation
1962km Road Trip
- Road Trips
- Brisbane to Cape Tribulation
About the Road Trip
You can follow along on the map on the right.
You can follow along on the map on the right.
Brisbane to Hervey Bay
3 Hrs 30 Min - 295 Km
The trip from Brisbane to Hervey Bay takes around 3 and 1/2 hours. The drive follows the coast north through quaint beach towns and sweeping ocean vistas. Hervey Bay has plenty of attractions to offer, including Fraser Island. So one or two nights in Hervey Bay is recommended to see it all.
What to See & Do in Hervey Bay
Fraser Island Experience Enjoy swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking on UNESCO-listed K’gari on this full-day cruise. Spot dolphins, swim with turtles, then discover the island’s wild side on a bush walk.
Where to Eat & Drink in Hervey Bay
Enzos On The Beach Escape the hustle and bustle of Hervey Bay’s tourist strip and immerse yourself in the one-of-a-kind, laid-back vibe that only Enzo’s on the Beach can offer.
Odyssey Bistro When you step into Odyssey's serene dining area, you'll be immediately drawn to the unique features that set it apart. Odyssey Bistro offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience. From the wax-sealed menus, a testament to the restaurant's attention to detail, to the distinctive sound of vinyl records playing, each moment at Odyssey adds to your overall experience.
Where to Shop in Hervey Bay
Pocket Store The Pocket Store in Hervey Bay is a hidden gem for road trippers cruising along the Brisbane to Cape Tribulation route. This store sells "unique and beautiful things", from stylish homewares to beautiful fashion pieces.
Hervey Bay to Gladstone
3 HRS 20 Min - 281 Km
The drive to Gladstone from Hervey Bay takes about three and a half hours, making it the perfect place to take a break and refuel. Arrive in Gladstone just in time for lunch. This bustling port city is known for its vibrant waterfront, parks, and outdoor activities. Grab a bite to eat at one of the local cafes or restaurants, and if you have time, explore the Gladstone Marina or Tondoon Botanic Gardens.
Where to Eat & Drink in Gladstone
Lightbox Espresso and Wine Bar The Lightbox Espresso and Wine Bar is famous for its outstanding service and distinctive selection of drinks, featuring both espresso and wine. Additionally, the café boasts a forward-thinking food menu that complements its beverages.
Auckland House Brewery Auckland House offers a laid-back charm and a vibrant atmosphere while overlooking the ocean.
Gladstone to Rockhampton
1 HR 20 Min - 108 Km
It's time to stretch your legs. Rockhampton is just one hour and twenty minutes from Gladstone. As one of the largest cities in the region, it offers the amenities and attractions of a major metropolitan area.
Where to Eat & Drink in Rockhampton
Waterline Restaurant The Waterline Restaurant is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven Days a week, for A La Carte Dining, Dine-In, and Takeaway. The menus showcase the best local beef, seafood, and produce. Located on the edge of the stunning Keppel Bay Marina, Waterline Restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience with breathtaking, uninterrupted views.
Rockhampton to Airlie Beach (Via Mackay)
5 HRS 25 Min - 483 Km
It takes about five to six hours to get from Rockhampton to the next stop in Arlie Beach. Around halfway is Mackay, a natural stopping point to stretch your legs and get food. If you feel like a steak and beer, Mackay has you covered with several excellent pubs. Alternatively, you will find everything from Cafes, Pizzerias, and restaurants around the main streets of Victoria and Woods Streets.
What to See & Do in Airlie Beach
Glass Bottom Boat Discovery Tour If you’d like to experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef without getting wet, this 70-minute glass-bottomed boat tour is ideal.
Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flights If you’d like to experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef without getting wet, this 70-minute glass-bottomed boat tour is ideal.
Where to Eat & Drink in Airlie Beach
Northerlies Beach and Bar At Northerlies Beach Bar and Grill, every effort is made to ensure that the ingredients used in their dishes are of the highest quality. The head chef has forged strong relationships with local farmers and suppliers to source the freshest produce.
Where to Shop in Airlie Beach
The Jungle Trader Discover a delightful selection of beautiful homewares, unique gifts, and exquisite jewelry nestled in the vibrant heart of Airlie Beach.
Maker Store Maker Store is a must-visit destination for road trippers seeking unique, locally crafted treasures.
Airlie Beach to Mission Beach
5 HRS 45 Min - 507 Km
Another driving day with the road from Arlie Beach to Mission Beach stretching for six hours, but it’s more than worth exploring this beautiful little beach town and meeting the locals. Stay a few nights as there is so much to see and do.
Where to Stay in Mission Beach
Elandra Mission Beach Hidden amongst 6 hectares of private tropical rainforest, we promise an experience of pure barefoot luxury. This retreat serves as a haven of relaxation, exclusively designed for extravagant getaways. Elandra Mission Beach offers 20 boutique designer rooms, each thoughtfully designed as a sanctuary of style and relaxation.
What to See & Do in Mission Beach
Dunk Island Ferry If you’re road-tripping through Mission Beach, adding Dunk Island to your itinerary is a must. The QuickCoast Dunk Island Ferry makes exploring this slice of tropical paradise easy. Departing daily at 9 AM and returning at 4.50 PM, the ferry gives you the right amount of time to enjoy everything the island offers. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by golden sands, lush bushwalking trails, and sparkling blue waters—perfect for snorkelling or a refreshing swim. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Dunk Island delivers. https://www.dunkislandferry.com/
Snorkel The Barrier Reef You will be whisked away to the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef, where you will enjoy two glorious hours of snorkelling at Beaver Reef.
Where to Eat & Drink in Mission Beach
Plenty Restaurant and Bar Plenty Restaurant and Bar offers a dining experience as vibrant and diverse as the stunning ocean views it boasts. The prime beachside location offers a relaxing atmosphere, allowing guests to soak up the scenic beauty of the coastline. The vistas of nearby islands add a touch of paradise to every meal.
Mission Beach to Port Douglas
3 Hrs - 204 Km
Port Douglas is three hours from Mission Beach, just a little past halfway between it and Cape Tribulation. The biggest draw for the town is the Four Mile Beach, a seemingly endless expanse of sand with plenty of room for you to kick back and soak in some sunlight after a morning on the road. Once you feel good and toasted, head to the esplanade for coffee before getting back in the car for the last hour and a half leg of the journey.
Where to Eat & Drink in Port Douglas
Salsa Bar and Grill Perched on the vibrant Wharf Street precinct in Port Douglas, Salsa Bar & Grill boasts breathtaking views of the sparkling waters.
Grant Street Kitchen Grant Street Kitchen is an artisan bakery and a casual café that beckons road trippers seeking a casual, laid-back stopover.
Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation
1 Hr 50 Min - 84 Km
At the end of the winding sealed road from the Daintree River, you will find Cape Tribulation. Its two magnificent beaches, laid-back vibe, and rainforest walks make it a little slice of tropical paradise.
What to See & Do in Cape Tribulation
Hike and Swim in The Daintree Tour Leaving Port Douglas, we travel north into the lush Daintree Rainforest. For our fascinating morning walk, we enjoy a leisurely wild wander along the Ancient Giants Trail through one of the most biodiverse valleys of the Daintree.
Cape Tribulation Horse Riding Beginners and experienced riders will enjoy riding through the beautiful Cape Tribulation landscape. After a safety briefing, you'll be guided through the ancient Daintree Rainforest, where you'll learn about the flora and fauna.
Zipline Cape Tribulation The guided zipline tour provides commentary on the rainforest ecosystem, and then the guides step back, and you enjoy the course at your leisure. The guides are there to help throughout the experience.