5 days in Byron Bay, Gold Coast & Brisbane Itinerary

Named after Lord Byron's grandfather, Byron Bay is not only famous as the easternmost point of Australia, but even more so as one of the liveliest vacation spots in the country.

Kick off your visit on the 26th (Thu): look for gifts at The Byron Bay Book Exchange, then visit a coastal fixture at Cape Byron Lighthouse, then have unforgettable encounters with Sundive Byron Bay, and finally relax and rejuvenate at some of the best spas.

To find other places to visit, photos, more things to do, and tourist information, read our Byron Bay day trip tool.

Gold Coast to Byron Bay is an approximately 1.5-hour car ride. You can also take a bus. November in Byron Bay sees daily highs of 32°C and lows of 18°C at night. Finish your sightseeing early on the 27th (Fri) to allow enough time to drive to Gold Coast.

A city of towering skyscrapers, sandy beaches, and tree-lined streets, Gold Coast has an unpretentious air complemented by a citywide focus on sports and the arts.

Kick off your visit on the 27th (Fri): get up close and personal with brilliant marine life at Sea World Theme Park and then get in on the family fun at Infinity Attraction.

To find traveler tips, where to stay, photos, and other tourist information, read our Gold Coast trip builder website.

Traveling by car from Byron Bay to Gold Coast takes 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus. In November, daily temperatures in Gold Coast can reach 30°C, while at night they dip to 20°C. You'll have a few hours on the 28th (Sat) to wrap things up before traveling to Brisbane.

Queensland’s biggest town and state capital, Brisbane has an attractive, manicured image based around its riverside aesthetic as well as the contrast between its high-rise center and extensive urban greenery.

Brisbane is known for parks, wildlife, and museums. Your plan includes some of its best attractions: stroll around South Bank Parklands, explore and take pictures at Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt. Coot-tha, look for all kinds of wild species at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, and make a trip to Channel Seven Wheel of Brisbane.

Plan trip to Brisbane with our itinerary maker to find out where to go and what to do.

Traveling by car from Gold Coast to Brisbane takes an hour. Alternatively, you can take a train; or take a bus. Expect a daytime high around 31°C in November, and nighttime lows around 21°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 30th (Mon) so you can go by car back home.