Distance and estimated driving time
Driving from Brisbane to Sunshine Coast typically takes around 1 hour and 19 minutes, covering approximately 68 miles. The most common route is via the Bruce Highway (State Route 70), ensuring a straightforward and efficient journey. This scenic drive offers travelers a quick connection between the bustling city and the coastal region. Planning ahead for potential traffic can help ensure a smooth trip along this popular route.
Driving route
The drive from Brisbane to Sunshine Coast offers a scenic journey through numerous vibrant suburbs and coastal towns. Starting from Brisbane, travelers pass through Chermside and Sandgate, moving along the coast past Redcliffe, Clontarf, and Scarborough, which are popular for their beachside attractions. Continuing north, the route takes you through Murrumba Downs, Mango Hill, and North Lakes, providing a blend of urban and suburban landscapes. The journey concludes with stops at Bribie Island and Woorim before reaching the Sunshine Coast, offering a diverse mix of coastal scenery and thriving communities. This route captures the beauty of Queensland's coast, making it an enjoyable trip with plenty of interesting sights along the way.
Best time to travel
The best time to travel from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast is during the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May), when the weather tends to be mild and sunny, providing optimal driving conditions and a more enjoyable experience. Avoid peak holiday periods such as major public holidays and school vacations, as traffic congestion can significantly increase, especially around popular stops like Redcliffe and Bribie Island. Early mornings or late afternoons are also recommended to avoid the busiest travel times and enjoy a more relaxed journey along the scenic route through Chermside, Sandgate, and Woorim. Ultimately, planning your trip during these periods ensures a smoother drive, better sightseeing opportunities, and an overall more pleasant trip to the Sunshine Coast.
Road conditions and traffic updates
Road conditions along the Brisbane to Sunshine Coast route are generally smooth, but travelers should be cautious of peak hour congestion, especially around Chermside, Redcliffe, and North Lakes. Traffic updates indicate increased volume during morning and late afternoon, with occasional delays near Bribie Island and during holiday periods on Bongaree and Woorim. Roadworks and maintenance in certain areas, such as around Morayfield and Narangba, may cause short-term slowdowns, so it's advisable to check current traffic reports before departure. Overall, the route offers well-maintained roads, but planning ahead will ensure a safer and more efficient journey.
Fuel stops and petrol prices
When undertaking a drive from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast, planning fuel stops is essential for a smooth journey. Petrol prices along this route can vary, with typical costs ranging from $1.60 to $1.80 per liter depending on the specific location and time. Major towns such as Chermside, Redcliffe, and Morayfield offer numerous service stations, making it convenient to refuel. To optimize costs, it's advisable to compare prices at different stations along the route and consider filling up in larger towns where fuel generally tends to be more competitively priced.
Recommended rest and refreshment spots
Along the Brisbane to Sunshine Coast route, travelers can enjoy several recommended spots for rest and refreshment. In Brisbane, visiting cafes or parks in Chermside offers a relaxing break before heading north, while Sandgate and Redcliffe feature seaside cafes perfect for a refreshing pause. Clontarf and Scarborough are ideal for enjoying coastal views and indulging in local seafood. Further north, areas like Mango Hill and North Lakes provide shopping centers and eateries to rejuvenate before continuing the journey to the Sunshine Coast.
Scenic viewpoints and attractions en route
Traveling from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast offers a variety of scenic viewpoints and attractions along the route. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Moreton Bay from Redcliffe, as well as explore the charming waterfront precincts of Scarborough and Bray Park. Deception Bay provides beautiful coastal scenery, while Bribie Island and Bongaree feature stunning beaches and bushland retreats. Additionally, North Lakes and Mango Hill offer modern parks and shopping precincts amidst lush surroundings, making the journey both picturesque and engaging.
Parking facilities at Sunshine Coast
Parking facilities at the Sunshine Coast are diverse and convenient, catering to visitors and residents alike. Major attractions and shopping centers offer ample parking options, including free and paid parking zones to suit various needs. Additionally, public parking areas are well-maintained and easily accessible, making it simple for travelers to explore the region without concern for parking availability. Overall, the Sunshine Coast provides a user-friendly parking experience, supporting its vibrant tourism and local community.
Travel safety tips for the route
When traveling from Brisbane to Sunshine Coast, it's essential to prioritize safety to ensure a smooth journey. Always check your vehicle's condition before departing, including tire pressure, fluid levels, and brakes, to prevent breakdowns. Adhere to posted speed limits and road signs, especially when passing through areas like Deception Bay, Burpengary, and Redcliffe, where traffic can vary. Finally, stay alert for pedestrians, cyclists, and wildlife, and keep your focus on the road to prevent accidents along this scenic route.
Alternative routes and detours
When traveling from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast, alternative routes and detours can help avoid traffic congestion or roadworks. One option is to take the inland route via Caboolture and Morayfield, bypassing some coastal areas like Redcliffe and Scarborough. Alternatively, detours around busy areas such as North Lakes or Murrumba Downs can be made by using the local roads through Mango Hill or Bounty Hills. Planning ahead with real-time traffic updates ensures a smoother journey, especially during peak times or in the event of road closures.