Brisbane to Airlie Beach road trip: Distance, drive time & stops
Brisbane to Airlie Beach drive: Gympie and Rainbow Beach
On the way out of the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane to Airlie Beach road trip stops worth a look include the Noosa Botanic Gardens in Cooroy and the Gympie Gold Mining and Historical Museum in Gympie.
Well reviewed Gympie accommodation includes the Gympie Muster Inn and the Shady Rest Motel.
Gympie is also home to the Mary Valley Rattler steam train and the worthwhile turn-off for Tin Can Bay and Rainbow Beach.
There’s more to Rainbow Beach than just getting the barge to Fraser Island. You might also opt for a two hour surfing lesson, kayaking with dolphins or stand-up paddleboarding.
If Fraser Island is the target, there are multiple tours on offer. Decide between a one day Fraser Island coach tour, a two day bus trip or a three day tagalong trip where you drive your own 4WD vehicle.
5 brilliant Rainbow Beach experiences you should book in advance
- Kayaking with dolphins – including a 4WD beach driving adventure.
- Beginner surfing lessons – you’ll be standing on the board by the end.
- Stand-up paddleboarding and 4WD tour combo – great value day out.
- Fraser Island day tour – visiting the island’s main highlights.
- Fraser Island three day tour – covering parts of the island most visitors miss.
Rainbow Beach accommodation picks include backpacker favourite Pippies Beach House, the more deluxe Plantation Resort and sea view balconies at the Ocean Palms Resort.
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