Sydney to Noosa - The Ultimate East Coast Road Trip!
How to Road Trip Australia's East Coast on a Backpacker’s Budget
Traveling in Australia isn’t always cheap, but with a bit of creativity, it’s possible to explore this incredible country without breaking the bank. After living in Sydney for three months, we decided it was time for our first long road trip. Our journey was packed with wildlife encounters, breathtaking sunsets, pristine beaches, charming coastal towns, and delicious food. Oh, and we celebrated our first hot Christmas!
If you’re planning an East Coast adventure, here’s a guide to help you map out your trip.
What We Needed
- Transportation: We rented a car from Jucy Rentals via Kayak.com. At just $37 a day, the total cost for two weeks came to $530—a steal for the flexibility it gave us to travel on our terms.
- Accommodation: We mixed it up between Airbnbs and budget-friendly options on Booking.com, including hostels and hotels.
- Festive Spirit: It was Christmas, after all, so we packed a few gifts to keep the holiday magic alive!
The Road Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Sydney to Port Macquarie (4 Hours)
Our first stop was Port Macquarie, a charming coastal town with romantic vibes. On the way, we grabbed burgers at Rascals in Newcastle and made it just in time for a sunset swim.
- Stay: Beachside Backpackers – A cozy hostel with private room options.
- Must-Do: Take a dip and stroll along the picturesque Coastal Walk.
Day 2–4: Port Macquarie to Gold Coast (5 Hours)
After an early start, we stopped at Shelly Beach in Nambucca Heads for a quick swim before arriving at the Gold Coast. We stayed at Maldives Resort, a beachfront condo ideal for budget-conscious travelers who still want a touch of luxury.
Highlights:
- Surf at Currumbin Alley
- Swim in Tallebudgera Creek
- Celebrate Christmas at Main Beach
- Enjoy Christmas Eve dinner at Etsu Izakaya
With its mix of beaches, shopping, surfing, and nightlife, the Gold Coast is perfect for couples or friends seeking fun and adventure.
Day 5–6: Gold Coast to Brisbane (1 Hour)
Brisbane was a quick stop for us, and although it was Boxing Day with many places closed, we made the most of our time.
Top Picks:
- Scooter along the River Walk
- Grab a beer at Felons Brewing
- Breakfast at Joey’s
- Ice cream from Messina
Day 7–9: Brisbane to Sunshine Coast/Noosa (2 Hours)
With our friends joining us, we squeezed into our trusty hatchback and headed to the Sunshine Coast. We stayed in a budget-friendly Airbnb in Marcoola, just outside Noosa, which turned out to be a blessing—it gave us access to quieter, local beaches.
Hidden Gem: Coolum Beach – A daily favorite for swimming, sunbathing, and drinks at the surf club.
Must-Do in Noosa:
- Hike in Noosa National Park to the Fairy Pools
- Poke bowls at Raw & Rice
- Upscale dinner at Ricky’s on the River
- Explore the main shopping strip
Day 10–12: Sunshine Coast to Byron Bay (3 Hours)
Byron Bay is an iconic Aussie destination, and it didn’t disappoint. We stayed in an Airbnb in South Golden Beach and soaked up the laid-back vibes of this surfer’s paradise.
Best Experiences:
- Snorkeling with sharks and turtles
- Watching surfers at Wategos Beach
- The Lighthouse Walk
- Dinner at The Smoking Camel
- Late-night drinks at the Piano Bar
- Shopping for a cute new bikini
Day 13–14: Byron Bay to Sydney (9 Hours)
The final stretch of our road trip was the longest, but we kept it entertaining with crime podcasts, alphabet games, and plenty of snack stops.
Final Thoughts
After two weeks of road-tripping Australia’s East Coast, I’m filled with gratitude for the laughs in the car, ocean swims, cozy nights with friends, and the memories made along the way.
Whether you're a backpacker on a budget or just looking for an unforgettable adventure, this itinerary has a little bit of everything—wildlife, nature, beaches, food, and fun. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the journey!