• The Big Pacific Coast Touring Route
See many of Australia’s ‘Big Things’ on the Pacific Coast Touring Route from Sydney to Cairns
Australia is a big country with a fondness for Big Things - super-sized sculptures commemorating everything from prawns and pineapples to native animals. You'll find them all along the spectacular Pacific Coast Touring Route, which stretches all the way from Sydney to Cairns. Weave through the Hunter Valley, Byron Bay, the glittering Gold Coast and see the World Heritage-listed wonders of Fraser Island and Great Barrier Reef. Stop to snap the Big Banana, a giant gumboot, a herculean pelican and many more larger-than-life monuments along the way. Whether you consider them highway art or just humorous, the Big Things are worth spotting on this stunning 13 day Australian road trip that brings you from Sydney, Central Coast, Hunter Valley, Port Stephens, Coffs Harbour, Byron Bay, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Fraser Island, Bundaberg, Rockhampton, Mackay, Townsville and Cairns.
While there are many stops worth making along the way, here are a few unmissable ones:
Take a Dip with Dolphins
The beautiful beaches of Nelson Bay in Port Stephens await you just a two-anda-half-hour drive from Sydney. This is a dream destination for those who love water sports. Get your fill of aquatic activities, be it swimming, surfing, snorkelling or diving.
Sandboarding on the Dunes
While in Port Stephens, be sure to visit The Worimi Conservation Lands, the largest sand dune system in Australia covering 4,200 hectares. This sprawling landscape includes 1,800 hectares of forests as well as 32 kilometres of beach — and the ever-shifting sand dunes that can reach up to 40 metres in height.
Say Hello to a Koala!
If you love cute creatures, drop by the Koala Hospital in Port Macquarie. Visitors are welcome to walk the grounds and observe the koalas under care. Join the Walk and Talk Tour at 3pm to watch the koalas being fed and see for yourself how these furry creatures are being cared for.
For more information and inspirational holiday ideas, please visit www.australia.com.