A spectacular adventure, covering nearly 2,500 miles and showcasing the diversity of Australia’s landscapes, towns, and cities. Over the course of 14 days, I experienced everything from tropical outposts to bustling metropolises, all while enjoying the open road. Here’s my day-by-day account, including driving distances and travel times.
Day 1: Darwin to Katherine (200 miles, 3.5 hours)
Starting in Darwin, I explored the vibrant waterfront before hitting the road. After a scenic drive, I arrived in Katherine and stayed at Knotts Crossing Resort, a cozy spot close to Nitmiluk Gorge. I joined a sunset cruise on the Katherine River and had dinner at The Finch Café, which served hearty, home-style meals.
Day 2: Katherine to Mount Isa (470 miles, 8 hours)
This was a long drive through vast, open landscapes. Mount Isa, a mining town in Queensland, was my stop for the night. I stayed at the Isa Hotel, known for its friendly vibe. After visiting the Outback at Isa museum, I enjoyed a hearty steak dinner at the Rodeo Bar and Grill.
Day 3: Mount Isa to Townsville (550 miles, 9 hours)
The journey to Townsville took me past rolling hills and cattle stations. I stayed at a traditional Townsville Bed and Breakfast. Classique Bed and Breakfast. I walked along The Strand, a picturesque waterfront, and dined at Jam Corner, a modern Australian restaurant.
Day 4: Townsville to Airlie Beach (170 miles, 3 hours)
A shorter drive brought me to Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsundays. Coral Sea Marina Resort was my accommodation, and it offered incredible views. I spent the afternoon relaxing by the lagoon and had dinner at Fish D’vine, which featured fresh, locally sourced seafood.
Day 5: Whitsundays Excursion
I took a day off driving to explore the Whitsundays. A boat trip to Whitehaven Beach and snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef were unforgettable highlights.
Day 6: Airlie Beach to Rockhampton (300 miles, 5 hours)
Rockhampton, the beef capital of Australia, was my next stop. I stayed at Empire Apartment Hotel, a modern and comfortable place in the city center. I visited the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens and Zoo before enjoying a perfectly cooked steak at The Criterion Hotel.
Day 7: Rockhampton to Hervey Bay (260 miles, 4.5 hours)
Hervey Bay is known for whale watching, and I was lucky enough to spot some humpbacks. I stayed at Oaks Hervey Bay Resort, a beachfront property with great amenities. Dinner at Coast Restaurant was a treat, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Day 8: Hervey Bay to Brisbane (180 miles, 3 hours)
Arriving in Brisbane, I checked into The Calile Hotel in Fortitude Valley, a chic and stylish spot. I explored South Bank, visited the Gallery of Modern Art, and enjoyed dinner at Otto Ristorante, which offered fantastic river views.<
Day 9: Brisbane to Byron Bay (90 miles, 2 hours)
Byron Bay’s laid-back vibe was a welcome change. I looked at Byron Bay Guest Houses online and stayed at Byron Springs Guesthouse. Watching the sunrise from Cape Byron Lighthouse was magical, and dinner at The Farm Byron Bay was a farm-to-table delight.
Day 10: Byron Bay to Coffs Harbour (150 miles, 2.5 hours)
In Coffs Harbour, I stayed at Pacific Marina Apartments and explored the iconic Big Banana and the Jetty. Dinner at Shearwater Restaurant, overlooking the water, was a highlight of the evening.
Day 11: Coffs Harbour to Newcastle (240 miles, 4 hours)
Newcastle surprised me with its vibrant arts scene and beaches. I stayed at QT Newcastle, a boutique hotel. Nobbys Beach and the Newcastle Art Gallery were my favorite stops. Dinner at Subo, a contemporary bistro, was exceptional.
Day 12: Newcastle to Sydney (100 miles, 2 hours)
The final leg brought me to Sydney, where I stayed at the Park Hyatt, offering breathtaking views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. I explored the city’s iconic landmarks, from Bondi Beach to The Rocks, and enjoyed a celebratory dinner at Quay, one of Sydney’s top restaurants.
This road trip from Darwin to Sydney was an unforgettable journey through Australia’s diverse landscapes and cultures. Each stop offered unique experiences, from tropical beaches to bustling cities, making it a trip of a lifetime.
