An Easy Brisbane to Byron Bay Road Trip with Kids!

Looking for the best things to do on an easy Brisbane (QLD) to Byron Bay road trip? We have got what you need to know!

The relaxed beach lifestyle, stunning lookouts and casual dining heaven of Byron Bay is a must do for families. And if you are in search of their next road trip adventure, this is the one for you! Byron Bay is just under two hours from Brisbane and has numerous worthwhile pit-stops along the way. I am sure you will agree with us that the journey is guaranteed to be as worthwhile as the destination.

Brisbane City to Yatala Pies – 30 minutes

First stop, and an Australian icon, the Yatala Pie shop. We love their dessert menu which is as good as the savoury. So be sure to get your fill of baked goods for the journey ahead. At just 30 minutes from Brisbane this is a great way to save time with brekkie on the go, keep the kids satisfied and a quick stretch leg stretch all in one for the journey ahead.

Just like all popular food stops, arriving early means easier parking and more choice of snacks, a custard and apple tart and or steak and pea pie are well known favourites, best to order both unless you really want to share. Gluten free and most other dietary requirements are also covered.

Yatala Pies to Palm Beach – 40 minutes

Just 40 minutes from your pie session, you’ll arrive for your first taste of the sea at Currumbin on the Gold Coast. This is a great chance to visit the local beach boutiques and choose one of the numerous beach side cafes for a morning brew. By now the kids will no doubt want to get out and explore, so you can head down to one of the many white sprawling beaches or the calm water at Laguna Park for a family swim before the midday sun sets in.

We also love the Palm Beach Pirate Treasure Island. You can find it at 945 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach.

If the sea air has triggered your tastebuds, some of the best fish and ships are just a stroll or drive a way. You can have a meal straight from your swim at the local’s favourite, Luka’s Fish and Chips, which is just across the road. You will rewarded with some of the best and affordable battered whiting, burgers and share packs around.

If you are in the mood to drive, an equally excellent lunch awaits at Get Hooked Seafood just 15 minutes away in picturesque Tweed Heads. We highly recommend taking lunch to go and eating up at Rainbow Bay lookout, with its own picnic tables and a view to write home about already!

We also wrote about our favourite family friendly restaurants (offering discounts) on the Gold Coast here. As a bonus, if you’re looking for some places on the Gold Coast where kids eat free, see our article here.

See all the best things to do on the Gold Coast with kids here.

Palm Beach to Tropical Fruit World – 25 minutes

By now the summer heat will be in full- swing and just over twenty minutes from Rainbow Bay lookout, Tropical Fruit World is the ideal stop to keep the kids from car-ride boredom and escape the midday sun. The ever popular farm tours are back in action following NSW restrictions. We loved the guided farm safari by tractor, boat as well as their short walking tour.

The kids will be able to meet and learn about farm and native animals, followed by the chance to pick and taste the myriad of native and exotic fruits. Due to restrictions, pre-booking is essential for all tours and the cafe to avoid disappointment.

We wrote about Tropical Fruit World on our other website.

You can visit Tropical Fruit Worlds website here.

Tropical Fruit World to Tintenbar – 45 minutes

As the summer heat begins to ease, and if the kids have the energy, Tintenbar and surrounds is one must visit location. The area is home to a selection of waterfall destinations; Minyon, Killen and Protester’s falls to name a few.

Take the time to cool down and float under any of these natural wonders after a short walk trail. Insect repellent essential if you arrive in the late afternoon.

Finally a reward especially for the parents, Tintenbar Tea House. The Tiintenbar Tea House is just five minutes from most waterfalls and is the ideal for afternoon tea or early dinner before you head into Byron Bay. The restaurant has plenty of pizza and burgers for the kids. We reckon adults will love the more refined options available with their locally sourced high tea platters receiving rave reviews far and wide.

Tintenbar to Byron Bay – 30 Minutes

The heart of Byron Bay is a short thirty-minute drive from the Tintenbar Teahouse. We recommend the scenic drive through Broken Head along the coast to avoid traffic and roadworks. We also love the views! You will head along Ross Lane Tintenbar through Broken Head, arriving relaxed and satisfied at your destination, Enjoy!

FIND OUT MORE: Here are the best things to do in Byron Bay with kids!

STAY: Check out Ocean Suites Byron Bay here, Discovery Parks Byron Bay here, or the Glen Villa Resort Byron Bay here.

EXPLORE: Visit the Byron Bay dolphins on this kayaking tour, and your pass to go horse riding on Byron Bay Beach here. Grab a delicious meal from the Crystal Castle Cafe here.

Brisbane to Byron Bay road trip

This is our recommended itinerary for a Brisbane to Byron Bay road trip. Let us know if you found any other places to stop that you think should be added to our list!

Looking for more fun road trips to do in Queensland with kids?

Check out these day trips from Queensland cities and towns

You can find all our Queensland content here.