The drive from Gold Coast to Byron Bay is a short one. However, when there’s no need to rush, there is a whole host of things to see and do along the way. This stunning stretch of coastline and gorgeous hinterland is begging to be explored – so why not put your rental car to good use and make a day (or two) of it?
Begin in Gold Coast
Gold Coast is a place built for holidaymakers, pleasure seekers and party-goers. Its Australia’s original holiday destination. With gorgeous beaches framed with views of decadent, shimmering skyscrapers, it’s a self-assured city, confident and unapologetically attractive.
The best way to take in the unique location and beauty of the city is to get to the top of the Q1 building. Towering at 203 metres above ground level, this is Australia’s tallest building and offers spectacular views of the city below.
From the iconic Surfers Paradise beach, to Main Beach and Broadbeach, you’ll be spoilt for choice when looking to soak up the sun or splash in the waves. Outside the city, lush, green hinterland offers a different side to Gold Coast – and one that is equally as enjoyable
Tamborine Mountain and National Park
If you can summon the willpower to leave the beach, jump in your rental car and hit the road to begin this short, but stunning, road trip.
Just under an hour inland from Gold Coast is Tamborine Mountain. Here you’ll find pristine rainforest, located in the third oldest national park in the world. There are numerous walks and lookout points to enjoy, as well as the Tamborine Mountain Skywalk which takes you on a trail through the forest canopy. After plenty of sun at the beach, some cool mountain air will be just what you need.
Currumbin Rock Pools
Wirth your lungs full of refreshing mountain air, jump back in your rental car and head for Currumbin Rock Pools. Here you’ll find a natural oasis, with cascading waterfalls and lagoons set alongside lush, tropical greenery. This is what holidays are made of.
On one side of the pools, you’ll find a deeper lagoon perfect for swimming, while on the other, there is a small waterfall with smooth rocks that has created a natural waterslide. Pack a picnic and spend an afternoon relaxing before hitting the road.
Kingscliff
Our next stop is Kingscliff, a charming beach town popular with holidaymakers – and just a short 30-minute drive from Currumbin Rock Pools. Kingscliff is a pretty town, with a picturesque coastline and pristine beaches with reef breaks that offer some world-class surfing. With a growing reputation for gourmet food, Kingscliff is an excellent place to stop off for a spot of lunch and sample some of the area’s fresh seafood. Aside from sun, surf and kicking back on the beach, the Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Point Danger Lookout, and the Fingal Lighthouse are all worth a visit.
Byron Bay
After exploring Kingscliff, jump in your rental car and head south for our final destination, Byron Bay. Byron is a bustling coastal town, not far from Cape Byron Lighthouse, which marks mainland Australia’s most easterly point.
The town is laid-back and relaxed, with dazzling beaches, hip shopping, and plenty of gourmet dining. It has long been a haven for hippies and hipsters, with plenty of wellness and yoga retreats, as well as trendy shops that sell locally made products.
Byron is all about the chilled atmosphere. Take a stroll through the town and soak up the vibes. Catch a sunset with a cold beer. Stay out late and catch some live music. Or maybe stay out late enough to catch a stunning sunrise.
Whatever you choose to do, you’ll love Byron Bay. And a rental car from Hertz will get you there.
