Discovering Australia’s East Coast Gems

In Australia, an east coast holiday by the sea doesn’t have to mean crowded beaches, jam-packed bars and no vacancy campgrounds. There are over 50,000 kilometres of gorgeous coastline and some of the world’s best beaches to discover. With more beachside towns than just about anywhere else, we’ve compiled some of the best gems to find along the east coast when you want to escape the summer masses.

Cape York Peninsula, Queensland

If you’re wanting a true adventure, pick up your campervan rental in Cairns and begin the long, (but well worth it) road trip to Australia’s northernmost point. As you leave Cairns you’ll find plenty to see and do along the way. Dip into refreshing waterfalls and swimming holes that you’ll most likely have all to yourself. Visit indigenous communities and drive through undiscovered terrains. Hire a boat for a scenic cruise, take a picturesque helicopter ride, horse riding tour, wildlife spotting trip or Cape York Tip tours. It’s a long, wild drive, so pack accordingly and check out suitable campgrounds before you arrive to ensure you’ve got a secure space to park up.

Hervey Bay, Queensland

Hervey Bay is your gateway to Fraser Island and the Fraser Coast, and it’s pure heaven. Soak up the sun, dip your toes into the warm waters, and wander along the soft, silky sands. Hervey Bay is a coastal city near Brisbane which is perfect for nature and adventure lovers first and foremost. Did you know Hervey Bay is renowned as the best place in Australia, if not the world, for whale watching encounters? If you’re visiting between July and November, don’t miss out on this once in a lifetime experience. The Hervey Bay region offers a mixture of accommodation for visitors including motorhome parks with powered sites like Harbour View Caravan Park. You’ll be set no matter what experience you’re looking for.

Noosa National Park, Queensland

The Fairy Pools are a fun little stopover perfect for older children. These two natural tidal pools in Noosa National Park are tucked away on the coast, and you need to trek to get to them. We recommend strapping on your best walking shoes because depending on your pace, it should take 30-45 minutes to get out to the pools. It’s essential to keep the tide in mind. The Fairy Pools will only be disconnected from the sea during low tide. Go for a coastal swim in the clear waters, then carry on walking to reach Hell’s Door, a scenic cliff where you may even see whales and dolphins. This location can get busy, but if you pick your timing right, you could have natural jacuzzis all to yourself.

Byron Bay, New South Wales

You didn’t think we could leave this incredible beachy gem off the list, did you? Byron Bay offers visitors places to stay, play and explore, as well as some of Australia’s best food and art festivals. Splendour in the Grass is just one music festival that’s worth mentioning. With previous lineups including Childish Gambino, Sza and Tame Impala, this annual event is one for the books. If renting a campervan, (which we highly recommend) remember to book your motorhome space early and purchase the correct vehicle pass depending on the size of your rental.

Yamba, New South Wales

That’s right. If you’re staying in Yamba, you’ll have six beaches to choose from within walking distance from the town centre. What more do you need? This underrated beach town is also home to Angourie Blue Pool, previously a large quarry that filled with fresh water and is now a hot spot for swimming. Yamba is where you want to be if you love the water as it’s also located at the mouth of the Clarence River so you can mix it up with river-based activities. Angourie Point is famous for its surf and offers surfing lessons for those keen to learn. But Yamba is perhaps best known for its succulent prawns. Stop by the Clarence River Fishermen’s Co-Operative in Iluka for a taste of these delicious crustaceans.

Reef Beach, Sydney

Sometimes, less is more: for those seeking sandy respite without travelling too far from the city (if at all), Reef Beach along Dobroyd Head has you covered. This small strip of sand near the Manly Scenic Walkway serves up spectacular views across Sydney’s North Harbour – it’s a tranquil spot for a dip, minus the crowds and the fuss. Park up your motorhome rental and enjoy the 15-minute walk to the beach. The facilities include toilets and cold showers.

Golden sands, rolling dunes, endless ripples of salty whitewash – who doesn’t love a long day out at the beach? Thankfully, the east coast has a heavenly mix of sandy spots, many of them well off the beaten track. When Bondi, Manly and Tamarama start to jam up, book a campervan rental and head a little further out for your private oasis, or explore the city for lesser-known gems to enjoy.