Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Bundaberg, QLD to Arakoon, NSW
A road trip from Bundaberg, Queensland, to Arakoon, New South Wales is a truly unforgettable experience. The trip begins with a drive through scenic rural areas on the outskirts of Bundaberg, which then leads to the picturesque towns of Gladstone and Rockhampton, where visitors can explore the charming local cultures and historic landmarks. Heading towards the halfway point, Ashmore, Queensland, the drive becomes more scenic and peaceful with breathtaking views of the rugged countryside. After having a quick stop in Ashmore, travelers will then take off to explore the beautiful coastal towns of Central Queensland, before finally reaching the serene destination of Arakoon, New South Wales. Here are some of the top things to do on this amazing road trip.
1. Visit Lady Elliot Island
Lady Elliot Island is a natural haven for marine life lovers, making it one of the best places to visit while on a road trip from Bundaberg to Arakoon. The island is home to an abundance of sea turtles, colorful fishes, manta rays, and hundreds of bird species, and offers visitors a range of water activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving in crystal-clear waters. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the island, where they can learn about the fascinating wildlife and ecology.
Interesting Fact: Lady Elliot Island is an eco-resort that is entirely powered by renewable energy.
2. Visit Great Keppel Island
For those with a passion for sun, sea and sand, Great Keppel Island is the perfect stop on a Bundaberg to Arakoon road trip. It is a favorite beach location among Queensland locals and has been voted one of the top 10 beaches in Australia. Here visitors can enjoy a range of water sports, including scuba diving, snorkeling, kite-surfing, and boating. They can also indulge in good food at one of the local restaurants.
Interesting Fact: Great Keppel Island has a unique ecosystem and is home to over 90 different species of birds.
3. Visit Coffs Harbour
Coffs Harbour is a charming seaside town situated along coastal New South Wales and is easily accessible from Bundaberg. Visitors to this town can indulge themselves in activities such as whale watching, surfing, and exploring the beautiful Dorrigo National Park. They can also visit the iconic Big Banana, one of Australia's most popular tourist attractions, and enjoy the amusement park rides and banana-themed activities.
Interesting Fact: The Big Banana was established in 1964 and is a tribute to the bananas that were once a significant part of Coffs Harbour's economy.
4. Visit Hat Head National Park
Hat Head National Park is an incredibly tranquil location and offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy multiple outdoor activities. Here visitors can go swimming, fishing, surfing, and canoeing, or enjoy a picnic with their loved ones. The park is also home to beautiful vistas, rainforests, and an abundance of native wildlife.
Interesting Fact: The park is home to some of the oldest Aboriginal rock art in Australia.
5. Visit Trial Bay Gaol
Trial Bay Gaol is a convict-built jail located in Arakoon and is one of the historical landmarks that visitors should not miss while on a Bundaberg to Arakoon road trip. Built-in 1886, the jail initially served as an accompaniment to a nearby public works site but was later converted to a German internment camp during World War I. Visitors can take a guided tour of the jail and learn about the history of the site.
Interesting Fact: Trial Bay Gaol was used as a film set for the 1979 film, "The Irishman."
The Bundaberg to Arakoon road trip is a trip of a lifetime, with so much to explore along the way. Visitors can indulge in the historic sights and sounds and explore the pristine nature that surrounds them. It is an approximate 700km trip, which should take around 9 to11 hours. It is also advisable to take frequent breaks along the way to soak in the impressive locations visited on this road trip.