Imagine the thrill of the open road, the cool winter breeze on your face, and the anticipation of discovering new adventures at every turn. This is your time to embark on the Ultimate East Coast Winter Roadtrip, a journey that promises not only breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable moments but also the warmth and comfort of Tasman Holiday Parks along the way.
From the tranquil shores of Nambucca Heads to the tropical allure of Cairns, winter reveals the hidden gems of Queensland and Northern New South Wales. Picture yourself whale watching in Hervey Bay, exploring the vibrant culture of Ballina, or snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef. Each stop on this journey offers a new adventure, with Tasman Holiday Parks providing the perfect base to relax and recharge.
Whether you’re seeking the thrill of skydiving over Mission Beach or the peacefulness of a coastal walk at Hastings Point, this road trip is designed to cater to every traveller’s dream. Imagine cosy nights in premium cabins, laughter-filled days with family and friends, and the joy of creating memories that will last a lifetime.
So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the ultimate winter escape. Let the Ultimate East Coast Winter Roadtrip be your guide to discovering the unparalleled beauty and excitement that awaits along Australia’s stunning coastline.
Starting Point: Nambucca Heads
Embarking on your Ultimate East Coast Winter Roadtrip, Nambucca Heads is the perfect starting point to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Northern NSW. Known for its stunning coastal views and laid-back atmosphere, Nambucca Heads offers an ideal blend of relaxation and adventure.
Winter in Nambucca Heads means fewer crowds and more opportunities to enjoy its natural splendour. Take a leisurely stroll along the V-Wall, a unique outdoor gallery where locals and visitors alike have decorated the rocks with vibrant art and messages. For those keen on spotting marine life, winter is prime whale-watching season. Head to Captain Cook Lookout for a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, where you might catch a glimpse of majestic humpback whales on their annual migration.
The town also boasts a rich cultural scene with local eateries serving up fresh, locally sourced seafood. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in a meal at the V-Wall Tavern, offering spectacular views and a menu that showcases the best of the region’s produce.
Staying at Tasman Holiday Parks – Nambucca Heads provides unparalleled comfort and convenience. Just footsteps from the beach, the park offers a range of accommodation options, from pet-friendly cabins to spacious sites for caravans and campers. Enjoy the park’s amenities, including a swimming pool, BBQ facilities, and a kids’ playground, ensuring a delightful stay for families and solo travellers alike. With its scenic beauty and welcoming atmosphere, Nambucca Heads sets the perfect tone for your winter adventure.
Exploring Ballina
As you journey further along the East Coast, Ballina welcomes you with its vibrant culture and stunning beaches, making it a must-visit destination on your winter road trip. Ballina’s mild winter climate is perfect for outdoor activities, allowing you to fully enjoy the natural beauty and attractions this coastal town has to offer.
Start your day with a visit to the Ballina Naval and Maritime Museum, where you can dive into the rich maritime history of the region. Then, take a leisurely walk along the Ballina Heritage Trail, which winds through the town’s historic sites and landmarks, offering a glimpse into its past. If you’re a surfing enthusiast, winter swells at Lennox Head, just a short drive away, are legendary and not to be missed.
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the Richmond River provides ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and riverside picnics. The Ballina Farmers Market, held every Sunday, is a fantastic spot to sample local produce and crafts, offering a true taste of the region.
When it comes to accommodation, Tasman Holiday Parks – Ballina is your perfect home away from home. Situated between the towns of Ballina and Lennox Head, and just a stone’s throw from Boulders Beach, the park offers a variety of lodging options, including comfortable cabins and well-equipped caravan sites. The park’s facilities, such as a swimming pool, outdoor playground, and recreation room, ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Ballina’s blend of cultural richness and natural beauty provides a memorable stop on your East Coast adventure.
Fun at Hastings Point – North Star
Nestled between the ocean and the hinterland, Hastings Point is a hidden gem that offers tranquillity and adventure in equal measure. Known for its pristine beaches and lush landscapes, Hastings Point is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Start your exploration with a visit to the Hastings Point Headland, a renowned spot for its breathtaking views and abundant marine life. The headland is part of the Tweed Coast and is an ideal location for spotting dolphins, sea turtles, and during the winter months, migrating whales. The nearby estuary is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle.
For those interested in exploring the local ecosystem, the Marine Discovery Centre offers educational tours and displays about the region’s unique coastal environment. The centre’s interactive exhibits are perfect for families and those keen to learn more about marine conservation.
Staying at Tasman Holiday Parks – North Star at Hastings Point ensures you’re in the heart of this coastal paradise. The park boasts a range of family-friendly accommodations, including cabins, villas, and camping sites. Kids will love the waterpark and adventure playground (Closed 22nd July – 23rd August), while adults can relax in the heated pool or indulge in a massage at the Seascape Leisure Centre. With its idyllic location and excellent facilities, North Star is the perfect base for exploring all that Hastings Point has to offer.
Hervey Bay – Whale Watching Paradise
As you make your way to Hervey Bay, prepare for an unforgettable experience in Australia’s whale watching capital. Hervey Bay’s sheltered waters provide the perfect environment for humpback whales during their annual migration, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts.
Winter is the peak season for whale watching, with numerous tours offering close encounters with these magnificent creatures. Join a guided tour to witness humpback whales breaching, tail-slapping, and nurturing their young. The experience is both thrilling and awe-inspiring, providing a unique opportunity to observe these gentle giants up close.
In addition to whale watching, Hervey Bay offers a variety of attractions and activities. Stroll along the scenic Esplanade, which stretches for 17 kilometres and is lined with parks, cafes, and shops. The nearby K’Gari (Fraser Island), the world’s largest sand island, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers stunning landscapes, freshwater lakes, and ancient rainforests.
Tasman Holiday Parks in Hervey Bay provide a range of accommodation options across three locations: Hervey Bay, Fraser Coast, and Torquay Palms. Each park offers comfortable cabins, caravan sites, and camping areas, along with amenities such as swimming pools, BBQ facilities, and playgrounds. With its prime location and excellent facilities, Hervey Bay is an ideal stop for a memorable winter adventure.
Fisherman’s Beach – Emu Park
Continuing north, Fisherman’s Beach at Emu Park offers a peaceful retreat with stunning coastal views and a relaxed atmosphere. This charming seaside village is perfect for those looking to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Capricorn Coast.
Fisherman’s Beach is ideal for swimming, fishing, and beachcombing. The calm waters and pristine sands make it a favourite spot for families and those seeking a tranquil beach experience. The nearby Emu Park Main Beach is also worth a visit, with its scenic walking paths and picnic areas.
For a unique experience, visit the Singing Ship, a monument that honours Captain James Cook’s exploration of the region. The sculpture’s design allows it to catch the sea breeze, producing musical sounds that add to the charm of the area. The nearby Keppel Kraken, a water play park, is perfect for kids and offers fun for the whole family.
Tasman Holiday Parks – Fisherman’s Beach offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveller. From ensuite cabins to spacious camping sites, the park provides all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including direct beach access, modern amenities, and BBQ facilities. Emu Park’s peaceful environment and stunning scenery make it a perfect stop on your Ultimate East Coast Winter Roadtrip.
Airlie Beach – Gateway to the Whitsundays
As you continue your winter road trip, Airlie Beach awaits with its vibrant atmosphere and stunning natural beauty. Known as the gateway to the Whitsundays, Airlie Beach offers an abundance of activities and experiences that make it a highlight of your journey.
The town’s bustling marina is the starting point for exploring the Whitsunday Islands. Join a sailing tour to discover the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters of this tropical paradise. Whitehaven Beach, consistently ranked among the world’s best beaches, is a must-visit with its powdery white sand and turquoise waters. Snorkelling and diving opportunities abound, with the Great Barrier Reef providing a spectacular underwater world teeming with marine life.
Back on land, Airlie Beach Lagoon is a popular spot for swimming and relaxation. The town itself is filled with lively cafes, restaurants, and shops, offering a vibrant nightlife and plenty of dining options. For those seeking adventure, the surrounding Conway National Park offers hiking trails with stunning views of the coastline and islands.
Tasman Holiday Parks – Airlie Beach provides the perfect accommodation for your stay. The park offers a range of options, from luxurious glamping tents to spacious premium evergreen ensuite sites. Enjoy the park’s facilities, including a swimming pool, BBQ areas, and a shaded playground for the kids. With its prime location and excellent amenities, Airlie Beach is the perfect base for exploring the Whitsundays and enjoying a memorable winter getaway.
Rowes Bay – Townsville’s Gem
Next on your journey, Rowes Bay in Townsville offers the perfect blend of city excitement and beachside relaxation. As one of Townsville’s most popular beaches, Rowes Bay is known for its stunning views, recreational activities, and close proximity to the city’s attractions.
Start your day with a visit to The Strand, a beautiful beachfront promenade lined with cafes, restaurants, and parks. Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the waterfront, taking in the views of Magnetic Island. For a bit of history, visit the Jezzine Barracks, a significant cultural site that showcases Townsville’s military history and Aboriginal heritage.
Castle Hill, a granite monolith in the heart of Townsville, offers panoramic views of the city and the Coral Sea. The walking trails to the summit are popular with locals and visitors alike, providing a rewarding experience with stunning vistas. For a day trip, hop on a ferry to Magnetic Island, where you can explore its beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife.
Tasman Holiday Parks – Rowes Bay provides an ideal base for exploring Townsville. Located just minutes from The Strand, the park offers a variety of accommodation options, including oceanview cabins and evergreen powered sites. Enjoy the park’s amenities, such as the swimming pool, tennis court, and BBQ facilities. With its prime location and excellent facilities, Rowes Bay is the perfect spot to experience the best of Townsville’s city and beach life.
Rollingstone Adventure
A short drive north of Townsville brings you to Rollingstone, a picturesque coastal village that combines the best of both worlds: adventure and relaxation. Known for its stunning beaches and laid-back vibe, Rollingstone is a fantastic stop for those looking to unwind and explore.
Begin your Rollingstone adventure with a visit to Balgal Beach, a pristine stretch of sand perfect for swimming, fishing, and beachcombing. The on-site barramundi lakes provide excellent opportunities for catch and release fishing, making it a haven for anglers. For a unique experience, try your hand at mud crabbing, a popular activity in the region.
The area is also rich in history and culture. Visit the historic Rollingstone Railway Bridge or take a trip to the nearby town of Paluma to explore the beautiful Paluma Range National Park, where you can enjoy bushwalking, bird watching, and stunning waterfalls. The Little Crystal Creek Bridge, a picturesque stone arch bridge, is a highlight not to be missed.
Staying at Tasman Holiday Parks – Rollingstone ensures you’re perfectly positioned to enjoy all that this beautiful region has to offer. With a variety of cabins and sites available, offering both ocean and lake views, Rollingstone is truly a park for everyone. Take advantage of the park’s amenities, including a resort-style swimming pool and waterslide, camp kitchen, and BBQ facilities. The combination of location and in-park amenities makes Rollingstone an attractive destination for an extended stay. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Rollingstone provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable winter getaway.
Discovering South Mission Beach
Journeying further north, South Mission Beach offers a tropical paradise with its lush rainforests and stunning coastline. Like Rollingstone, this destination is perfect for those looking to combine relaxation with a touch of adventure, making it an essential stop on your winter road trip.
The main attraction of South Mission Beach is, undoubtedly, its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. Winter is an excellent time to explore the reef, with clear waters providing perfect conditions for snorkelling and diving. Numerous tours operate from the area, offering unforgettable experiences of the world’s largest coral reef system. For those who prefer to stay above water, kayaking and sailing are popular activities that offer a different perspective of this natural wonder.
The surrounding rainforests are home to diverse wildlife and numerous walking trails. Located down the road from the park, the Kennedy Walking Track is a must-do, offering breathtaking views and the chance to spot native birds and cassowaries in their natural habitat. For thrill-seekers, skydiving over Mission Beach provides an adrenaline rush with spectacular aerial views of the coastline and the reef.
At Tasman Holiday Parks – South Mission Beach, you’ll find a range of accommodation options to suit every traveller. Whether you choose a beachfront villa or a spacious camping site, set in beautifully landscaped gardens, the park’s facilities, including a swimming pool, camp kitchen, and playground, ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. South Mission Beach’s blend of natural beauty and adventure makes it a standout destination on your East Coast winter road trip.
Cairns Cool Waters – Tropical Escape
The final destination on your Ultimate East Coast Winter Roadtrip is Cairns, a tropical paradise with a warm climate and stunning landscapes.
The Great Barrier Reef is the star attraction, and winter provides excellent conditions for snorkelling and diving. Join a tour to explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life that make this natural wonder so special. For a different perspective, take a scenic flight over the reef and the Daintree Rainforest, offering breathtaking views of these UNESCO World Heritage sites.
The Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway provide an unforgettable journey through the ancient rainforest, offering panoramic views and opportunities to spot native wildlife. Cairns Esplanade is another highlight, with its lagoon pool, walking paths, and vibrant markets.
Located in the tranquil forests of Cairns, Tasman Holiday Parks – Cairns Cool Waters offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. The park’s amenities, including a swimming pool, turtle sanctuary, and freshwater creek, ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Cairns’ tropical climate and stunning scenery make it the perfect final stop on your East Coast winter adventure.
Now’s the time to pack your bags and set off on this extraordinary winter escape. Book your stays at Tasman Holiday Parks and experience the best of Queensland and Northern NSW. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination, so take your time, enjoy the scenic drives, and immerse yourself in the wonders of Australia’s East Coast. Happy travels!
