Australia is a country of breathtaking beaches, unique wildlife, stunning cliffs, and fascinating rock formations. What many may not realize is that it also boasts incredible waterfalls and lush forests. On top of that, Australia is known for its excellent coffee and warm, welcoming locals.

Australians are incredibly friendly and love small talk! They’re always happy to share hidden gems only locals know about, while also being curious about your travels and experiences. Through these conversations, we discovered some amazing places, which we now want to share with you.

In this post, we’ll focus on exploring Australia by campervan, one of the most popular ways to travel—not just for visitors, but for locals too. However, planning such a trip can be overwhelming. Where should you go? What’s worth seeing?

We’ll share everything we learned during our two-month campervan adventure across Australia to help you plan your own unforgettable journey.

Given Australia’s vast size, we’ve divided our trip into multiple posts, making it easier for you to organize your perfect road trip. Generally, traveling between major cities takes about two weeks, helping you plan a smooth and enjoyable adventure.

Check out all our Australia travel guides:

• Cairns to Brisbane Itinerary
• Brisbane to Sydney Itinerary
• Sydney to Melbourne Itinerary
• Melbourne to Adelaide Itinerary

Ahhh Australia! What a wonderful country! Thinking back about our trip we have in mind so many beautiful memories, animals we saw for the first time in our lives, cities like no other, wonderful beaches, high cliffs and great viewpoints. And these are just some of the attractions. Australia can not be described in a few sentences, it must be experienced.

Our trip to the land of kangaroos lasted two months, which is still not enough, and we already know that someday we will return to get to know this country even better. But for now we look through the photos and think back about, one of the coolest adventures in our lifes.

#1 Brisbane

Enjoy some big city life in Brisbane, the capital of Queensland. Get a first glimpse of the metropolis from Mount Coot-Tha Lookout. In the city, enjoy a walk along Howard Smith Wharves and marvel at the view of the skyline as well as the legendary Story Bridge. For a little escape from the urban bustle, take a walk in the City Botanic Gardens. Go on a shopping spree in Queen Street Mall or enjoy the warm sunshine along Streets Beach. To round things off, immerse yourself in another world at the Rainforest Walk, right next to the Wheel of Brisbane.

#2 Moreton Island

About 40 km from Brisbane is the paradise on earth called Moreton Island. At Tangalooma Beach you can enjoy a beautiful beach and a view of the famous Tangaloom Wrecks. These were sunk by the Queensland government between 1963 and 1984 to create a safe anchorage for recreational boaters on the eastern side of Moreton Bay.

Travel time: 1h 15min (ferry)

#3 Gold Coast

One of the most popular destinations in all of Australia, the Gold Coast is the perfect place for an enjoyable vacation, or a few days stopover during a road trip around Australia.

Loved by tourists and locals alike, this place offers amazing beaches with soft, yellow sand and an ocean where you can cool off during hot Australian days. Choose from several great beaches along the Gold Coast:

• Surfers Paradise
• Gold Coast Beach
• Broadbeach
• Nobby Beach
• Miami Beach
• Burleigh Beach

Gold Coast is somewhat reminiscent of Miami in the States, or Cancun in Mexico. On one side there is the ocean and a perfect, long and wide beach, and on the other side there are streets full of stores, restaurants and a mini park ideal for walking or jogging. And all of this stands in the shadow of skyscrapers offering great views of the ocean – living here is a dream for many.

If you got time to choose only one beach, let it be Surfers Paradise, which is one of the most lively area on the Gold Coast, offering amazing beach to chill and swim on a hot day. However, whichever beach you choose you can be sure of a long and wide beach, soft white sand and refreshing ocean water.

Parking spaces are located along the entire length of the beaches, but remember that they are paid and being even five minutes late can result in a hefty fine.

Travel time: 1h

– Barleigh Head National Park

If you fancy a short and not too intense bush walk, head to Barleigh Head National Park. For a part of the walk, you’ll follow designated trails right next to the cliffs, and you can even spot whales from a few observation points!

The bush walk here is not very demanding and takes a maximum of 2 hours including some breaks. Practically right at the entrance to the trail there is a paid parking lot.

– Tallebudgera Beach

Just outside Barleigh Head National Park is another long and wide beach called Tallebudgera Beach. This one is perhaps a little less popular, but just as beautiful and ideal for a relaxing day at the beach or a morning jogging.

Parking lots are located in many places along the entire length of the beach.

#4 Currumbin Beach / Currumbin Rock / Elephant Rock Lookout

Ready to watch the surfers or try yourself at Australian waves? Currumbin Beach will be the perfect place for that!

The most daredevils can be seen at Currumbin Rock, where the waves can be quite strong, although there is no shortage of surfers. But remember that the ocean can be dangerous and be ready for any possibility!

If you decide to stay dry that day, head to the amazing Elephant Rock Lookout, from where you can admire the entire area, including the beach and Gold Coast in the distance. Unforgettable views guaranteed and to get to the top you can use stairs, so it is not to hard.

A small, free parking lot is located right next to Elephant Rock Lookout, and from there you can easily walk to the beach and the rock as well.

Travel time: 25min

#5 Coolangatta

Another beautiful stop on your road trip is Coolangatta. A place where you’ll spend the perfect beach day on one of several beaches. Collangatta Beach and Greenmouth Beach, are wide and sandy, dotted with rock formations in places.

This area a great place for a beach day for everyone including families with children.

Travel time: 10min

– Rainbow Bay Beach

A short distance away is the smaller but equally charming Rainbow Bay Beach. This beach is loved by surfers, mainly because of the perfect waves on the ocean.

– Rotary Walk / Snapper Rocks / Point Danger

If you don’t feel like laying on the beach, be sure to take the Rotary Walk along the coast, which is offering great beach and ocean views and wildlife watching.

A walk along the wooden bridge will take you along the Snapper Rocks all the way to the magnificent Point Danger. From there you will enjoy amazing views of the ocean and surrounding coastline. It is also the perfect place to picnic on the grass, or in some spots in the shade of the trees. Some lucky people have even managed to spot whales from this spot!

Free parking for several hours is available in the center, as well as at several other locations near the various points mentioned above.

#6 Byron Bay

One of the most popular places in the area – Byron Bay is very popular place, especially among surfers. The access to this place is beautiful, amidst the surrounding greenery.

On site you have a choice of two beaches, both long and wide. The first one, Main Beach, is the most popular, probably due to its location. It is an ideal place for surfing and an unforgettable sunset.

The second one, Tallow Beach, is less popular, but just as beautiful and unique. Locals choose it for long walks and jogging.

Travel time: 45min

– Cape Byron Lighthouse

One of the most beautiful places you can visit in Bayron Bay is definitely the Cape Byron Lighthouse. Although getting to this place can be a bit tricky, it’s definitely worth the trip.

Especially during sunset this place is magical. From above, the views of Tallow beach, the setting sun and the endless ocean are some of the unforgettable ones.

There are two parking lots at the lighthouse, one a little further which is for free and the other right next to the lighthouse. If you decide to park right at the lighthouse, you should know that parking spaces are limited, parking is possible for a fee of $6.50 (10 AUD)  and the maximum parking time is one hour.

#7 Red Cliffs / Plumbago Beach

Traveling around this part of Australia, a brief stop at Red Cliffs is something not to be missed on your Asutralia itinerary.

Red Cliffs is one of the most beautiful places we’ve seen in our lives! Beautiful ocean views, red cliffs, surrounding greenery and beautiful blue sky are just a few of the advantages of this place.

Be sure to take a walk along the cliffs, go down to Plumbago beach, and make friends with …

Kangaroos!

There are so many of them here! They are most happy to lounge near the beach, in the green glades, or on the beach itself. Accustomed to humans, they do not really care about the next tourists taking pictures of them. Remember, however, that they are still wild animals and especially males can defend the area and females with young.

Free small parking lots can be found in several places along the beach.

Travel time: 1h 30min

#8 Crescent Head Lookout

The next brief stop, during your trip around Australia should be Crescent Head Lookout. The views that unfold from this spot are magnificent, and the short hike to the lookout point is easy and pleasant. In high season (April to November) you may even see whales here!

As for getting to the lookout, you have two options. The first is to leave your car in town and hike to the lookout (remember, however, that it is quite a long route, all the way uphill, on an asphalt road). The second option is to park the car on the mountain and take a short and easy walk to the viewpoint.

Travel time: 3h

– Barnett´s Backery

After visiting the Lookout be sure to head to Barnett’s Backery for breakfast or lunch. It’s the most popular place in the town. You will enjoy delicious coffee and local pastries with a variety of fillings and for dessert try delicious Lamington cake.

#9 Koala Conservation Hospital Port Macquarie

One of Australia’s five most popular animals, the adorable Koala is the country’s sweetest symbol. It inhabits several states in Australia (Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia).

Unfortunately, in 2022 it was listed as an endangered species in as many as three of the country’s states. Agriculture, urbanization, droughts, and associated bushfires, some related to climate change are now the main threats to koalas.

To help these adorable animals, the Koala Conservation Hospital Port Macquarie has been established, which captures and hospitalizes injured koalas. Most of the animals return to their homes in the wild after hospitalization, but several of the koalas are permanent residents at the hospital, as they would not be able to cope in the wild due to the damage they have suffered.

Travel time: 55min

Koala Hospital unfortunately gets no government funding, so it is entirely dependent on donations that can be made locally. The Koalas can also be „adopted“, which helps the hospital with expenses related to the wards. By adopting a koala you support the whole project while your koala and its koala friends continue to be helped in the hospital.

Koala Hospital is a great place for all lovers of these animals. If you’re in the vicinity, you should definitely visit to observe these adorable animals. If you have some money left, please consider to support the project.

There is a private, free parking space right next to the hospital.

– Fun facts about Koalas

• Mostly due to their consume of eucalyptus Koalas sleep up to 20h a day
• If they do not get enough rest, they could die from exhaustion
• Pooing is their biggest hobby – up to 200 times per day
• They are lazy, they even avoid brawls with other koalas at all costs.
• They weigh up to15 kg and are up to 85 cm tall – fluffy
• At birth, baby koalas climb into their mother’s pouch and remain there for the first six months of life

#10 Number One Beach

Loved by the locals, Number One Beach is quite small, but surely every newcomer will find a place for himself on it. The water at this beach is quite calm, which definitely makes it easier to swim and relax in the ocean. A little further from the shore the surfers will find perfect waves for themselves.

If you are lucky enough you can even observe dolphins swimming quite close to shore!

Free parking is located right by the beach.

Travel time: 1h 55min

#11 Zenith Beach

Situated in an beautiful, natural setting, Zenitch Beach is located between the mountains, which makes it somewhat secludet. Soft sand and clear water are a wonderful addition to this beautiful beach.

Unfortunately there is no lifeguard on site, so remember to use caution when entering the water. The waves at this beach can be quite strong, which is why it is a beloved spot for surfers.

Parking at the beach is unfortunately limited, so it is better to come here early in the morning, or in the afternoon, when the place gets a little bit more empty.

Travel time: 1h 50min

#12 Gan Gan Lookout

Driving from Zenith Beach, be sure to make a brief stop at Gun Gun Lookout, to admire the surrounding hills. The nature all around including the amazing tall flowers adds to the uniqueness of this place.

Getting to the lookout parking is a bit tricky, but once arrived getting to the lookout itself is simple and quick. There is a small, free parking at the top.

Travel time: 10min

#13 Tin City at Stockton Beach

The tin city on Stockton Beach is something you’ve probably never experienced before.

In the late 1800s, many ships crashed near Stockton Beach. People built two tin sheds to help stranded sailors. During the Great Depression in the 1930s, homeless people built tin shacks there.

In World War II, the army tore down the shacks to make room for a camp. Now, there are eleven shacks left, known as „Tin City.“ New shacks can’t be built, and damaged ones can’t be repaired. The area was even used in the movie „Mad Max“ in 1979.

Travel time: 45min

#14 Newcastle

Newcastle is definitely an interesting place to visit for a longer stop during your Australia trip. The city itself can impress with its architecture, a mix of older buildings and new ones.

In addition to several noteworthy buildings such as Newcastle City Hall, Christ Church Cathedral and the fountain in Civic Park, it also boasts nature. While in Newcastle, be sure to visit King Edward Park. This place is very popular among locals and is an ideal place for a walk or picnic among the trees.

While in the park be sure to visit the Bagey Hole where the more daring jump into the natural pool in the cliff. Even if you don’t feel like taking a dip, the place looks great from a vantage point in the park.

Close to the park is the Memorial walk located. From here you can enjoy beautiful views on Newcastle during a stroll.

If you feel like beach day there is a huge public beach in Newcastle – Bar Beach. Yellow sand, refreshing water and beautiful views of the cliffs guaranteed. At the beach there are bars and restrooms with free showers, as well as a large parking lot.

If you’re looking for some delicious food, make sure to visit Ground Floor Cafe.

Travel time: 1h 05min

#15 Redhead Beach

Redhead Beach is a great place for a day at the beach, swimming in the ocean or just jogging or walking.

While part of the beach is designated for sunbathers, there is also room for pets. They got their own beach, and can enjoy a swim in a refreshing water. With that, for dog lovers this place is ideal.

At the beach there is a bar, toilets and showers, as well as a large, free parking lot.

Travel time: 20min

#16 Mona Vale Beach

In case you can’t get enough beaches, be sure to visit Mona Vale Beach. This one is long and wide, with incredibly soft white sand. To the left is the tiny Bongin Bongin Bay which is loved by families with children.

Meanwhile, more or less in the middle, opposite the main parking lot is the magnificent Mona Vale Rockpool – a pool surrounded by rocks.

There are restrooms and showers on site, as well as paid parking.

Travel time: 1h 50min

#17 Sydney

Sydney is a vibrant city known for its iconic landmarks. The stunning Opera House with its sail-like design is one of the most famous buildings in the world, while the Harbour Bridge offers incredible views of the city and harbor. For a taste of history and architecture, don’t miss the Queen Victoria Building, a beautiful Victorian-era shopping center. Nearby, Angel Place is a charming alley with unique art installations and a peaceful vibe. Town Hall is an impressive building in the heart of the city, and a visit to Darling Harbour offers a mix of attractions, restaurants, and waterfront views, perfect for a day out.

Travel time: 35min

Outside of the city centre of Sydney, there are some incredible spots to explore as well. The Hornby Lighthouse, located on South Head, offers a scenic and historic escape with stunning views of the coastline and the entrance to Sydney Harbour. For nature lovers and beach enthusiasts, the Bronte to Bondi Beach walk is a must-do—this scenic coastal track offers breathtaking views, cliffs, and some of the most famous beaches in Australia, making it an unforgettable experience. Both of these attractions provide a refreshing contrast to the bustling city, offering natural beauty and a peaceful retreat.

Probably the best comfort of a campervan is that you not only have a means of transportation on four wheels, but also your entire home. Now you just need to know where you’re going to stay for the day and where you’re going to spend the night.

There is an app for that.

A camping trip in Australia wouldn’t work so easily without probably the most important app called WikiCamps . Rarely have we been so happy to live in an age of smartphones and apps.

With WikiCamps you can filter all the places and find exactly what you need.

• Where can I stay and cook during the day?
• Where can I fill up the campervan’s water tank?
• Where can I take a hot/cold shower?
• Where can I stay overnight for free?
• Where can I spend a paid night and charge the battery?

All this accompanied by numerous photos, ratings and reviews from a large camping community make planning so much easier and more enjoyable.

Download QR-Code

‎WikiCamps Australia

Entwickler: WikiCamps pty ltd

Preis: 6,99 €

Download QR-Code

WikiCamps Australia

Entwickler: WikiCamps

Preis: Kostenlos

Free vs. Paid Camping

Depending on how well equipped your campervan is and how often or if at all you need to recharge the electricity, you can decide every day whether you want to spend the night on a free or paid camping site. At the free ones you often only have one toilet, which is not necessarily clean, while at the paid ones you have a clean toilet and a warm shower.

To save money, we used a paid campsite every 3-4 days, also to recharge the batteries of the equipment and the campervan. On the days with free camping, we took a shower on the way and refilled the water tank, both of which you can also easily find in the app.

New South Wales is a blend of subtropical and temperate climates. For the best possible weather conditions, it is recommended to travel between March and April. As a general rule, in addition to the recommended months, the two or three months before and after are also highly recommended in most cases. Keep in mind, however, that the weather in Australia is the reverse of the western hemisphere.

In order to visit all the places we recommended in this post without rushing, plan at least two weeks. Distances in Australia can be enormous, so check the map of places before you travel and reserve a few days.