Australia’s Holiday Highway—also known as the Pacific Coast Way—is Queensland’s most iconic road trip. Stretching from the glittering Gold Coast to tropical Cairns, this 2,000-kilometre coastal drive promises endless sunshine, vibrant towns, and nature at every turn.
Along the way, the Capricorn Coast shines as the ultimate halfway highlight—where reef meets rainforest, and outback energy meets seaside calm.
Discovering the Pacific Coast Way
Beginning on the Gold Coast, the drive heads north through Brisbane and into the Sunshine Coast hinterland, where mountain villages and artisan cafés invite you to linger. Noosa’s boutique beaches soon give way to Hervey Bay’s whale-watching waters and the sand tracks of World Heritage-listed K’gari.
Further north, the Southern Great Barrier Reef begins to emerge—ushering in the Central Queensland coastline. This is where you’ll find the Capricorn Coast, a region that blends laidback lifestyle with unforgettable outdoor adventures.
The Capricorn Coast: Queensland’s halfway hero
Located between Rockhampton and the Keppel Islands, the Capricorn Coast offers travellers a true Queensland experience without the crowds. It’s relaxed yet adventurous, coastal yet connected—and filled with experiences that showcase the best of regional Australia.
This region has surged in popularity in recent years for good reason. From fossicking for gems to fishing for barramundi, exploring caves to relaxing on island beaches, it delivers an itinerary that ticks every box for road trippers.
Rockhampton: riverside charm and cultural heart
Known as Queensland’s beef capital, Rockhampton is also a city with deep roots and modern energy. Sitting on the Fitzroy River, it’s the cultural hub of Central Queensland and the perfect base for regional exploration.
Highlights include the Nurrim Circuit Skywalk in Mount Archer National Park, the limestone formations of the Capricorn Caves, and gem-hunting at Mount Hay Tourist Park. Families can try their luck fishing in town or time their trip with the Rockhampton River Festival or Capricorn Food and Wine Festival to soak up the local vibe.
Yeppoon and the Keppel Islands
Just 30 minutes from Rockhampton, Yeppoon offers a relaxed coastal escape with a stylish edge. Its beachfront lagoon is a free, family-friendly attraction, while the foreshore’s boutiques and cafés add a dose of contemporary cool.
A ferry from nearby Rosslyn Bay whisks you to Great Keppel Island in under an hour. With 17 beaches, walking trails, and clear waters perfect for snorkelling, it’s a Southern Great Barrier Reef gem ideal for day trips or longer stays.
Nature and adventure in Byfield
A short drive north of Yeppoon takes you to Byfield, where rainforest meets sand dunes and freshwater swimming holes like Upper Stony Creek offer the perfect way to cool off. Byfield National Park is a haven for hikers, 4WD enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.
Wildlife encounters on land and sea
Capricorn Coast travellers can meet kangaroos, koalas, and cassowaries at Cooberrie Park Wildlife Sanctuary, or join a boat tour in Keppel Bay to spot turtles, dolphins, and dugongs in the wild. For a deeper dive into Queensland wildlife, Koorana Crocodile Farm offers an educational and thrilling experience.
A taste of Capricorn: food and drink highlights
The local food scene is fresh, fuss-free, and full of flavour. Craft breweries like Crimson Finch, boutique distilleries, and weekend farmers markets make the region a delight for foodies. Taste Capricorn Coast celebrates local growers, makers, and chefs who champion sustainability and seasonal produce.
Continuing north to Cairns
Once you’ve explored the Capricorn Coast, the Pacific Coast Way continues north through Mackay’s wallaby-strewn beaches, the sailing paradise of the Whitsundays, and the coral-fringed magic of Magnetic Island. From there, Mission Beach leads the way to Cairns, gateway to the Wet Tropics and the northern reaches of the Great Barrier Reef.
Why choose the Capricorn Coast on your road trip?
- Safe, welcoming, and full of character
- Excellent value for money across stays and experiences
- Beaches, islands, rainforest and river—all in one place
- Easy access to reef tours, wildlife parks, and national parks
- Authentic Queensland culture with a relaxed local vibe
