The Ultimate Cairns To Brisbane 2 Week Itinerary
Have you been dreaming of exploring the very best of Queensland, Australia? Well you're in luck! We've selected the most important must-see destinations in this tropical corner of the world and combined them into an action-packed 2-week itinerary! In the space of just 14 days, you can make your way from Cairns down to Brisbane (or reverse it if you'd prefer!) and hit all of the very best holiday spots and experiences along the way. From waterfalls, wildlife and rainforests to island-hopping and overnight sailing adventures, this itinerary covers it all. You can thank us later.
Cairns to Brisbane in 2 Weeks
In just 2 weeks, you can experience the most magical parts of Queensland, travelling from Cairns all the way down to Brisbane and hitting a few must-see spots in between! Here's how we'd recommend doing it:
We know what you're thinking: 'You can do all of that in just two weeks?!' You sure can! It's all about building the perfect itinerary. Read on for a breakdown of how to pull off this awesome adventure!
First Stop: Cairns
This itinerary kicks off in Cairns - the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the home of the world's oldest tropical rainforest, Daintree Rainforest. We've designed this itinerary to include two separate day tours so that you get to experience both reef and rainforest, so be sure to organise accommodation for both nights! We recommend booking somewhere within Cairns CBD so that it's easy to get to your tour pick-up points each day.
Day 1: Visit Daintree Rainforest or Atherton Tablelands Waterfalls
Spend your first day in Cairns exploring the natural beauty that has thrived here for millions of years. Whether you choose to explore Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation or the Atherton Tablelands, you're in for some of the most beautiful sights Australia has to offer.
At Daintree Rainforest - the oldest living rainforest on Earth - you can trek through twisted trees and marvel at gushing rivers, spot exotic wildlife and hike to jaw-dropping lookout points. Some day tours also include river boat cruises through the forest to spot saltwater crocodiles, and visits to Cape Tribulation and Mossman Gorge.
If waterfalls and swimming holes are more your style, then opt for a day tour through the Atherton Tablelands. This World Heritage Area is home to some of the most beautiful falls in Australia including Millaa Millaa Falls, Josephine Falls, and Barron Falls. Go for a dip in Lake Eacham, swim under a waterfall, and keep your eyes peeled for local platypuses on this epic day out!
Take a look through the top day tours to Daintree Rainforest or Atherton Tablelands - as well as other things to do in the area - on our sister website Cairns Tours.
Day 2: Great Barrier Reef Tour
If you're visiting Cairns and don't plan on seeing the Great Barrier Reef, what are you doing? The dreamy reef structure (so large that you can see it from outer space) is the ultimate day out, with opportunities to snorkel, scuba dive, and spot beautiful marine life. Whether you're with friends, family, a partner, or travelling solo, day tours to the Reef include something fun for everyone!
Find our top-recommended Great Barrier Reef day tours on our sister website Cairns Tours, or get in touch with our team of travel experts for more information.
Next Stop: Magnetic Island
This marks the first tropical island on your Cairns to Brisbane adventure! This gorgeous sun-soaked destination is a wildlife haven, with opportunities to spot cuddly koalas and adorable wombats. Pay a visit to the island's wildlife sanctuary to get close to these local cuties, as well as a few snakes - if you're brave enough! Enjoy exceptional reef snorkelling, set off on breathtaking hiking trails, or chill out on sandy beaches - the world is your oyster on Magnetic Island.
Day 3: Travel Day (Cairns to Magnetic Island)
That's all for Cairns! Today you'll head south and make your way to Magnetic Island. Whether you're catching a bus or driving, be sure to leave early to give yourself plenty of time.
If you're keen to spend the night on Magnetic Island (which we'd recommend), it's best to look into this in advance. To get the best value for money, it's a good idea to consider the Magnetic Island Escape Package which covers 2 nights of accommodation, your ferry to and from the island, and some activities!
Travel Time from Cairns to Townsville: 6 hour drive
Travel Time from Townsville to Magnetic Island: 40 minute ferry
Day 4: Spend The Day Exploring the Island
Whether you decide to book the Magnetic Island Escape Package or you want to explore the area yourself, today is brimming with potential. Hire some snorkel gear and explore the thriving marine world just off the island, enjoy a breakfast with koalas, feed the rock wallabies, or hike Forts Junction or Horseshoe Bay. There's so much to do on this little island!
Next Stop: Airlie Beach
The next stop on the itinerary is Airlie Beach - aka the gateway to the beautiful Whitsundays! There are plenty of accommodation options in this charming beach town - from swanky resorts to budget-friendly hostels - but you'll only need to book accommodation for your first and last night here, because you'll be spending 2 nights at sea amongst the fabulous Whitsunday Islands.
Day 5: Travel Day (Magnetic Island to Airlie Beach)
Say goodbye to Magnetic Island and catch the ferry back to the mainland today. It's time to drive further south and make your way to Airlie Beach. Once you arrive and check in to your accommodation, why not take some time to explore the town? Airlie Beach is home to some fantastic bars and restaurants, as well as some great shops, a large lagoon pool, and a gorgeous local beach. Airlie Beach also boasts a lively nightlife scene, but don't go too wild tonight! You'll want to be fresh for your boat tour through the Whitsundays.
Travel Time from Magnetic Island to Townsville: 40 minute ferry
Travel Time from Townsville to Airlie Beach: 4 hour 30 minute drive
Day 6: 2D/2N Whitsunday Sailing Tour
Today you'll be checking back out of your Airlie accommodation and checking onto an overnight boat! There are so many tours to choose from, so be sure to take a good look through your options, or chat with one of our local travel experts before you book.
For example, backpackers and social travellers usually opt for boats like Atlantic Clipper and New Horizon, that offer itineraries jam-packed full of activities, and a lively atmosphere. Meanwhile, those who are keen to do more scuba diving or snorkelling might consider the boat Summer Jo - a beautiful, modern boat that frequents the best reef sites around the islands. Those seeking a little more chill time on a catamaran should look at boats like Entice, On Ice or Powerplay - to name a few!
Travellers can typically only bring one small to medium soft bag on board Whitsundays tour boats. If you require somewhere to keep your other belongings, you can head to The Travel Shop at the top of Airlie Beach's main street, which offers luggage storage.
Top 2D2N Tours in The Whitsundays
Day 7: 2D/2N Whitsunday Sailing Tour
This is the second day of your overnight sailing tour. Perhaps you'll for a dip in the pristine blue Coral Sea, visit the best beach in the world, Whitehaven Beach, snorkel the colourful fringing reef, or chill out on the deck. Soak up the salty sea air while you can!
Day 8: Return to Airlie Beach / Boat After Party
After your fabulous sailing adventure, you'll return to shore today. Exchange numbers with your new friends, make sure chuck yourself in the water a few more times, and then sit back and enjoy the cruise back to Airlie Beach. That evening, your boat crew will organise an after party for you and your tour group. If you're not in too much of a rush, it's always fun to stick around for a night, share a drink with the crew and the guests, and reminisce about your time at sea. Before you head to the after party, be sure to pick up your luggage and check back into your Airlie Beach accommodation for the night.
Next Stop: Noosa
Noosa isn't just a convenient stopover between Airlie Beach and K'gari (Fraser Island). It's a surfer's dream with seemingly endless beaches, epic surf, excellent brunch spots, and charming neighbouring towns. During your time here, it won't be hard to find things to do!
Day 9: Travel Day
First, though, you'll need to leave Airlie Beach! The drive from Airlie to Noosa is the longest stint you'll do on this itinerary. To make the journey feel a little shorter, it's recommended that travellers book an overnight bus, departing in the afternoon and arriving in Noosa the following morning.
While you're waiting for your bus, there are lots of activities to keep you busy in Airlie. Keep things cheap and chill by the lagoon, or splash out and book morning activity like a scenic flight over the Reef, a jetski tour, or even a skydive!
Travel Time from Airlie Beach to Noosa: 17 hours
Day 10: A free day in Noosa
Check in for a night of accommodation at Noosa and spend the day as you please! Take a surfing lesson, canoe down the everglades, kayak with dolphins, go for a drinking tour in the hinterlands, or just chill on the beach!
Next Stop: K'gari (Fraser Island)
K'gari (Fraser Island) is one of the most beautiful spots along the entire East Coast of Australia. Home to thriving rainforests, pristine beaches and lakes, and comfy campsites under the stars, it really is a nature lover‘s paradise! There are so many outstanding sights to see on this island (the largest sand island in the world!), so it's key to give yourself a few days to see this spot. We recommend a 3 day, 2 night tour that covers your transport, accommodation, and a guide to take you to all of the best spots.
Day 11: 3D/2N Camping Tour
Today you'll travel from Noosa to Inskip Point - the departure point from the mainland to K'gari. Depending on the tour you've booked, your operator may organise for you to be picked up from Noosa, or you may have to meet them at Inskip Point. Speak to our travel team to organise the right K'gari tour to suit your needs! Or take a look through the options on our sister website Fraser Tours.
Travel Time from Noosa to Inskip Point: 1 hour 30 min drive
Travel Time from Inskip Point to K'gari: 10 minute ferry
Day 12: 3D/2N Camping Tour
Today is the second day of your K'gari camping tour. Over the course of the tour, you could visit any number of spectacular destinations on the island, including, Champagne Pools, Lake Wabby, Eli Creek, Lake McKenzie, Central Station, Maheno Shipwreck and more!
Day 13: Return to Noosa
Today will mark the last day of your K'gari tour and you'll be heading back to the mainland on the ferry, then driving back to Noosa for one more night in this coastal, sun-soaked town. Take some time to chill out after your island adventure, or enjoy a night out in Noosa!
Travel Time from K'gari to Inskip Point: 10 minute ferry
Travel Time from Inskip Point to Noosa: 1 hour 30 min drive
Next Stop: Brisbane
The final destination on your 2-week itinerary is the fun, friendly city of Brisbane. After days of on the road and in remote islands, it'll be nice to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of a thriving city! Enjoy charming morning markets, go for a dip in the South Bank lagoon, or enjoy night of dancing in Fortitude Valley!
Day 14: Travel to Brisbane
Today will mark the final leg of your 2-week Cairns to Brisbane tour. Say goodbye to Noosa and hit the road one last time to make your way to the thriving city of Brissie! Stroll down the streets, enjoy some retail therapy, or simply chill in your accommodation after an exhilarating 2 weeks,
Travel Time from Noosa to Brisbane: 2 hour 15 minute drive
