Ace Rental Cars Blog

Whether you’re road-tripping solo or travelling with friends and family, a drive across the Pacific Coast Way from Sydney to Brisbane offers something for everyone. The drive from Sydney to Brisbane can take anywhere between 11-13 hours, and with so many towns and attractions to stop at along the way, it can be a struggle to pick where to go. From small coastal towns to entertainment epicentres, we’ve listed places to stop in between that offer a blend of adventure, sightseeing and moments for relaxation for every traveller.

• Port Macquarie, NSW
• Coffs Harbour, NSW
• Byron Bay, NSW
• Gold Coast, QLD

Port Macquarie

• Tacking Point Lighthouse
• Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk
• Rainforest Cafe

Starting in the country's tourist capital, visit the Harbour Bridge and Opera House in Sydney and soak up the wonder of Circular Quay. When you’re ready to depart, drive the rental car north to Port Macquarie, where the Hastings River meets the South Pacific Ocean. For ocean views and whale spotting during migration season, head to the Tacking Point Lighthouse. This cosy spot offers uninterrupted views of the ocean and is the perfect place for a picnic with family or friends. Swap the ocean breeze for rainforest canopies at the Sea Acres National Park. Here, nature lovers can undertake an immersive boardwalk experience through the forest. The 1.3km journey amongst the greenery is suitable for all ages, you’ll hear native bird calls and learn about Aboriginal history. Finish your rainforest adventure with a delicious meal at the Rainforest Cafe before heading back to the car to continue your interstate adventure.

Coffs Harbour

• The Big Banana Fun Park
• Harbourside Markets

Just under two hours from Port Macquarie in the rental car, Coffs Harbour is next on the list. The ideal family holiday destination, Coffs blends the atmosphere of a laid-back coastal town with a world of activities to last your entire visit. The highlight here is the Big Banana Fun Park. As the name suggests, the Park is home to one of Australia’s ‘big’ attractions - the 13-metre Big Banana. Stop here to snap a funny photo in front of the giant fruit before heading inside. At the Park, visitors can do everything from ice skating and racing down a giant slide to snacking on banana pancakes and chocolate-coated bananas. With rides, games, and unique experiences on offer at the Big Banana, it’s an awesome spot to make memories along your Pacific Coast Road trip. In town, enjoy shopping like a local and embrace the Coffs community spirit at the Sunday Harbourside Markets. Taking place by the jetty, browse a large collection of handmade wares and fresh-grown produce while live bands soundtrack your day.

Byron Bay

• Byron Bay Beach
• Cape Byron Lighthouse
• Stone & Wood Brewery
• Cape Byron Distillery

If you’re tired after all that adventure, Byron Bay is the perfect place to relax, chill out and immerse yourself in the laid-back lifestyle. Whether swimming in the ocean or sunbathing on the shore, the bay offers visitors a spot to take advantage of the sun, sand, and surf. For unmissable scenic views, head to Cape Byron Lighthouse on the country’s most Eastern point. Join a guided tour or walk the Cape Byron walking trail to discover the area yourself. For those looking for a spot to wind down with a pint of beer, visit the Stone & Wood Brewery to taste their iconic Pacific Ale and range of craft beers. If you prefer gin, the Cape Byron Distillery also offers unique flavours like Turkish Delight Gin and a Native Plum Gin Spritz. Always assign a designated driver when drinking.

Gold Coast

• Theme Parks
• Surfers Paradise

When it’s time to pick up the pace on your trip, take the rental car further up north to the Gold Coast. Buzzing with activity and a lively tourist spot, you can experience it all here from larger-than-life rollercoasters to walks along the shore. As the ‘theme park capital’ of Australia, a visit to the Gold Coast would be incomplete without visiting one of the city’s four major parks. For loop-de-loop fans, Dreamworld will have you wanting to ride the rollercoasters again and again and meet all the Looney Tunes characters at Warner Bros. Movie World. Wet’n’Wild is perfect for those looking to make a splash, and if underwater animals are your favourite, Sea World has plenty to offer. When you’re ready to wind down, soak up the sun, sea and sand and take a moment to relax on the beach at Surfers Paradise. Golden shores and crystal-blue waters look straight out of a movie, it’s the perfect spot to recharge and get inspired before you’re on the road again.

Finally, your journey ends in the Sunshine State’s capital of Brisbane, where there’s plenty to discover. From strolling along the Brisbane River to bird's eye views of the city on The Wheel, Brisbane is a hub of arts, culture, and history. A road trip from Sydney to Brisbane is the best way to discover the East Coast's hidden gems and top attractions and is an unforgettable way to make memories with loved ones.