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The Pacific Coast Way, Island Vibes Edition

This isn't just an epic road trip - it's an overseas adventure!

The Pacific Coast Way is Queensland’s ultimate road trip, linking city, coast, and islands on one brilliant drive from the Gold Coast to Cairns. SeaLink connects the journey to amazing island destinations along the Queensland coast, from breathtaking North Stradbroke sunrises and K'gari's endless sand tracks to the thrill of jet skiing the Whitsundays and spotting wild koalas on Magnetic Island. Now, all that’s left is to choose your adventure and start planning your brilliant Queensland road trip today.


Four Queensland icons. One unforgettable drive-and-island adventure.

Discover the brilliant island's SeaLink can connect you to:

North Stradbroke Island

At the southern end of the Pacific Coast Way near Brisbane, hop aboard the vehicle ferry to North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) and leave the everyday behind. Wander along golden beaches, paddle across sparkling freshwater lakes, or lose yourself in untouched bushland. Feel the thrill of a surf lesson, discover stories on a cultural tour, or sip craft brews straight from the tanks at Straddie Brewing Company. With Straddie sunrises, endless horizons, and pure island bliss, it’s the perfect first island stop on your coastal journey.

Book your ferry to North Stradbroke Island


Tours and experiences on North Stradbroke Island

  • Indigenous Cultural Workshops

    Indigenous Cultural Workshops

    Step into the rich traditions of the Quandamooka people with Matthew Burns, a proud Traditional Owner.
    Find out more
  • Day Trip from Brisbane

    Day Trip from Brisbane

    Tour the island with passionate guide as you visit some of the most breathtaking sites, including Point Lookout Gorge Walk, Amity Point and more.
    From
    $190 per adult
    Book now
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  • Straddie Brewing Co Behind the Tanks Tour

    Straddie Brewing Co Behind the Tanks Tour

    Learn about the brewing process, the unique flavour profiles of their beers, and see where the magic happens.
    From
    $49 per adult
    Book now
    Powered by

K'gari (Fraser Island)

As you follow the Pacific Coast Way north to the Fraser Coast, set out for K’gari (Fraser Island), the World Heritage-listed island of towering sand dunes, lush rainforests, and endless beaches. Stay at Kingfisher Bay Resort or K’gari Beach Resort and let the island’s natural beauty unfold around you. Take a guided tour with K’gari Explorer Tours to discover hidden lakes, coastal vistas, and secret tracks, or explore at your own pace. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply a serene getaway, K’gari is a world of wonder and an essential stop on your coastal journey.

Book your ferry to K'gari (Fraser Island)


Accommodation and experiences on K'gari (Fraser Island)

  • Kingfisher Bay Resort

    Kingfisher Bay Resort

    Experience eco-luxury at this four-star resort, complete with restaurants and nature-based adventures.
    From
    $199 per night
    Book now
  • Illumina Light Show

    Illumina Light Show

    Marvel at the first permanent light, laser, and projection installation of its kind in Queensland, with nightly shows in Kingfisher Bay Resort.
    From
    $50 per adult
    Book now
  • K'gari Beach Resort

    K'gari Beach Resort

    Unwind at a laid-back 4WD-only retreat on the famous 75 Mile Beach, perfect for adventure seekers exploring the eastern side of the island.
    From
    $199 per night
    Book now

The Whitsundays

As your Pacific Coast Way journey reaches Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsundays, you’ll find a tropical playground of turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and lush island hideaways. Feel the soft sand between your toes at the award-winning Whitehaven Beach, often named one of the world’s best beaches. Dive into vibrant coral gardens of the Great Barrier Reef with Red Cat Adventures or or let your heart race on a Whitsunday Jetski Tour. All that’s left is to choose your adventure and let the Whitsundays do the rest.

Book your Whitsundays experience


Tours and experiences in The Whitsundays

  • Purely Whitehaven Day Tour

    Purely Whitehaven Day Tour

    Step aboard an award-winning cruise through the Whitsundays, stopping at Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout.
    From
    $245 per adult
    Book now
  • Outer Reef Snorkelling Tour

    Outer Reef Snorkelling Tour

    Experience the beauty of the world-famous Great Barrier Reef on this snorkelling eco-adventure.
    From
    $299 per adult
    Book now
  • Whitsunday Jetski Tours

    Whitsunday Jetski Tours

    Drive your own jetski out to view the Whitsunday Islands from the protection of the coastline, explore beautiful bays and enjoying some turtle spotting.
    From
    $259 per jetski
    Book now

Magnetic Island

Continuing along the Pacific Coast Way to Townsville, a short ferry ride takes you to Magnetic Island (or “Maggie” as the locals call it) where tropical charm meets laid-back adventure. With over 300 days of sunshine each year, it’s the perfect place to slow down and soak it all in. Explore more than 20 bays, snorkel fringing reefs, kayak hidden coves, or hike scenic trails where koalas doze in the eucalypts. On Maggie, every day is laid-back, sun-soaked, and unforgettable.

Book your ferry to Magnetic Island


Tours and experiences in Magnetic Island

  • Ferry to Magnetic Island

    Ferry to Magnetic Island

    The fastest way to get to Magnetic Island is with SeaLink, operating up to 17 services a day and it only takes 20 minutes.
    From
    $22 per adult
    Book now
  • Orpheus Island Day Tour

    Orpheus Island Day Tour

    Nestled within Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, spend the day exploring this true hidden gem off the coast of Townsville.
    From
    $155 per adult
    Book now

Frequently asked questions

  • The Pacific Coast Way, also called the Pacific Coast Highway, is one of the best road trips in Australia, stretching from the Gold Coast to Cairns for around 1,600 km along Queensland’s east coast. This scenic route links coast, rainforest, reef, and lively towns, making it a top choice for an unforgettable road trip.

  • A 14-day itinerary is commonly recommended for the Pacific Coast Way road trip, as it allows ample time to enjoy island adventures, reef excursions, rainforest walks, and the many towns and attractions along the way. Itineraries can be shorter or longer, but two weeks is ideal for a relaxed pace.

  • Top stops on this east coast Australia road trip include K’gari (Fraser Island), Hervey Bay, the Whitsundays, Great Barrier Reef, Big Pineapple, Mackay, Yeppoon, and Townsville, defining the ultimate Australian road trip experience.

  • The May to October dry season is perfect for a Pacific Coast Highway road trip, thanks to mild weather and clear skies.

Aboriginal Flag
Torres Strait Islanders Flag

At SeaLink, we acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, water and community. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Cultures, and Elders past and present. We acknowledge the First Nation communities in the regions in which we operate. Learn more.