Ultimate East Coast Roadtrip – Rainbow Beach to Sydney
30 epic must visit places
If you’re planning a trip to the East Coast of Australia you need to add these 30 epic destinations to your Aussie bucket list! Wether you’re road tripping or not, these places are not to be missed. From stunning beaches to Jurassic rainforests that will leave you in awe, the East Coast is an iconic part to any Aussie adventure. Here are 30 epic spots to visit during your road trip adventure…
1. Rainbow Beach & Carlo sand blow
An incredible spot with a stunning view. Head here for sunrise to see the sand glisten as you head towards the cliff edge. Grab a picnic rug, sit down and watch the sun rise over the ocean. After the sun has risen grab a sand board or any make shift board and head for the sand dunes. Hours of fun are waiting to be had.
2. Booloumba Creek
A serene spot in nature where you’ll walk for hours and may not see another person. A peaceful walk with stunning scenery. Relax and listen to the sounds of nature or take a dip in the crystal clear water.
3. Noosa Fairy pools/National Park
Still a relatively hidden gem but not because people haven’t heard of this place, it’s exactly that- hidden. The fairy pools can be found in Noosa National Park. One of the most stunning National Parks I’ve ever seen!
4. Serenity falls
A beautiful walk through the jungle will lead you to this picturesque waterfall. Aim to go here early if you want to take a pic as it can be quite busy, especially on weekends.
5. Kondalilla Falls/national park
An impressive waterfall rewards you after a 3-4km hike. To get to the base of this waterfall requires a long hike down and a strenuous climb back up. Soak your feet in the beautiful rock pools on the way back up- bliss!
6. Glasshouse mountains
A trip to the Sunshine Coast isn’t complete without seeing this epic landscape. The Glasshouse Mountains will take your breath away with its impressive views and a range of hikes.
7. Wappa Falls
Another Sunshine Coast gem. An easy spot to get to if you fancy a dip in a natural swimming pool.
8. Northbrook Gorges & Mount Glorious
This place is completely hidden and one of the East Coast’s best kept secrets. To get here entails a bush walk and some gorge walking. Prepare to get your feet wet! Oh and watch out for snakes…
9. Cedar Creek Falls
This wonderful spot is the perfect place to take a natural shower and have a swim to cool off. Relatively easy to get to via a 20 minute stroll.
10. Mount Tamborine
Scenic drives and SO many viewpoints. Go here if you want to chill and watch the sunset.
11. Curtis falls
This enchanting waterfall is based in Mount Tamborine. To get here involves a wonderful hike through the rainforest. Prepare to be impressed by the gigantic palms.
12. Miami Beach
One of my favourite views. Miami Beach has it all and that’s all I need to say…
13. Greenmount beach
If you want to take a dip in the most aqua, crystal clear water on the Gold Coast, head here. No photo from this spot as we were having to much fun in the water…
14. Lamington National Park
I can’t put into words how special this place is. In short, JUST GO! Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
15. Springbrook National Park
Prepare to be wowed by Jurassic Rainforests which are millions of years old. So many awesome hikes and places of interest here. This National Park is not to be missed.
16. Currumbin Rock pool & Cougal Cascades
Currumbin rock pools is a lovely spot to take a dip but if you want to be wowed drive up the road to this hidden gem. We stumbled upon this place by accident and were left in complete awe.
17. Kingscliff Farm
A popular spot to visit according to Instagram. If you love sunflowers and cute farm animals then this place is for you. Ps they serve the most DELICIOUS croissants!
18. Brunswick River
One of my favourite spots to go for a swim. Brunswick river is based in a tiny town not far from Byron or the Gold Coast. I highly recommend visiting here.
19. Crystal Castle
Wether you love crystals or not, this place is a must visit. So many impressive crystals. Enjoy wandering around whilst recharging your energy. You will leave this place feeling totally zen.
20. Byron Bay Lighthouse
The most Eastern point in Australia- TICK! A gorgeous spot not to be missed in Byron. Make sure you to the sunrise trek at least once if you’re visiting.
21. The Pass
What can I say about this spot other than gooo! I spent SO many days here, scrap that, I went here almost every day at sunset for a swim. My favourite place in Byron 🙂
22. Wategos beach
A tranquil little beach with a cute (but pricey) cafe. Spot dolphins whilst you sunbathe or go for a swim.
23. Broken head beach
If Byron town and it’s busyness isn’t for you then head for Broken Head. A much quieter beach, which is gorgeous. There’s also more beautiful, quiet beaches a short drive from here.
24. Stockton Sand dunes
A desert next to the ocean. Well, not quite a desert but super impressive none the less. These sand dunes go on for miles. A short detour if you’re heading up or down the coast.
25. Bronte beach & Rock pool
One of my favourite spots in Sydney. Gorgeous beach with even more gorgeous views. If you’re visiting here ensure you do the Coogee to Bondi walk, Bronte is right in the middle. Perfect trail for endless ocean views.
26. Sydney Harbour Bridge
A trip to Sydney is complete without seeing this iconic bridge. Enjoy the view or if you love a good walk, cross the Harbour bridge. It’s definitely a tick off the bucket list!
27. Luna Park
If you have time to kill Luna Park is a must. A small but awesome theme park with lots of history. We had so much fun at Luna Park.
28. Sydney Olympic pool
Another iconic spot in Sydney. You can go for a swim and Sauna here for under $20. The pool is outdoor, salt water pool is cold but so refreshing. Bring your goggles as the water is extra salty!
29. Shark Bay
Dare to swim at Shark Bay. Yes, you wondered correctly, those nets are to keep the sharks out!
30. Sydney Opera House
Last but most certainly not the least- the Opera House. An absolute must do whilst exploring Sydney and the East Coast of Australia.
I hope you enjoyed these must visit places and hope you’ve added some to your East Coast road trip, they wont disappoint 🙂
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