Nothing is better than a fun road trip with your best mates along the beautiful east coast of Australia. These are the times you will look back on with fondness, and you will be glad that you took time out of your busy schedule to have some fun experiences. To make the road trip go as smoothly as possible, it’s good to plan out all the stops you will make along the way. Here are some ideas of great places to have a rest and see some sights when you are driving from Sydney to Brisbane.

Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park

Since it’s opening in 1894, Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park has been a favourite spot to holiday for many Sydneysiders, and a place to enjoy walking, boating, swimming and picnicking. Sure, you have barely left Sydney and are still at the beginning of your trip, but it is worth your while to stop at this unforgettable park. Ku-Ring-Gai Chase is where the mighty Hawkesbury River meets the sea; with beautiful clusters of winding creeks, secretive and sheltered beaches and hidden coves giving views of the deep blue sea. Stay a night in the campground and wake up surrounded by this breathtaking wilderness.

Port Macquarie

When you are ready to call it quits for the night, then it’s time to check into a spectacular Port Macquarie hotel. This coastal city has an amazing mix of old fashioned buildings, modern hotels and apartments as well as a variety of restaurants, great shopping and heaps of entertainment venues. If it is the scenery you are after you will have a great time exploring the rocky headlands, beaches and the banks of the Hastings River Estuary or taking a walk on one of the Heritage Walks through the rainforest. Come and find out why Port Macquarie holidays are so popular for folks from the big city.

Byron Bay

If you and your friends are looking to catch some great waves, hang out on the beach from dawn ‘till dusk or do some boutique shopping, Byron Bay has it all. Well-known for it’s alternative scene, Byron Bay also has some great hiking options that take you to hidden beaches, a cool lighthouse and the most eastern point on mainland Australia. If you come in the winter months, you will get some great deals on accommodation and may even get to see some whales!

Surfer’s Paradise

As you are getting close to Brisbane, you will hit the Gold Coast. This is an area that is good to visit so you can at least say that you’ve been there, as it is an extremely popular holiday destination for Australians and overseas visitors alike. You and your friends will get a taste of the high life here, as you lounge on the spectacular beaches, hit some of the best wave breaks around and do some shopping in the posh city centers. There are plenty of beaches to choose from, but if you are into surfing then make sure you check out Surfers Paradise in particular. If you are really feeling high class, book yourself into a day spa or dance the night away at one of the popular beachside night clubs.

There are heaps of places between Sydney and Brisbane that are great to stop at during your road trip, the only hard part will be deciding which ones to choose.