Welcome to Bundaberg – where the dirt’s rich, the flavours are real, and the locals know exactly where your food comes from (because they grew it). Set just four hours north of Brisbane and perched on the southernmost edge of the Great Barrier Reef, Bundaberg is one of Australia’s most fertile food bowls – producing a staggering 25% of the nation’s fresh fruit and vegetables. Here, the paddock-to-plate philosophy is second nature, farm gates swing open with a genuine welcome, and you’re invited to get a little hands-on with the region’s finest.

This is a road trip for those who like their food fresh, their stories real, and don’t mind getting a little red dirt on their boots in pursuit of flavour.

If your soul’s been craving stillness, fresh air, and open space, Bundaberg might just be the balm you didn’t know you needed. Tucked between fertile farmland and the Southern Great Barrier Reef, this vibrant patch of Queensland is where the wild things whisper — from coral gardens to granite cliffs, rainforest pools to riverside paddocks.

When the open road calls, Queensland’s Pacific Coast Way delivers. Stretching from Brisbane to Cairns, it’s a bucket-list drive packed with coastal charm, country soul, and world-class experiences. But for those in the know, the real magic begins with a short detour — off the highway and into the heart of the Bundaberg Region, where reef meets rum, turtles nest on moonlit shores, and the warmth of the locals is matched only by the sunshine.

Here’s your perfect five-day itinerary for the ultimate Bundaberg & Southern Great Barrier Reef escape.

Whether you're craving the nostalgia of old-school beach vibes or a family seeking a coastal getaway that’ll get the kids talking for weeks, the Bundaberg region offers the perfect road trip for those who love a bit of salt in the air, sand between their toes, and the feeling of the open road ahead.

Plan Ahead
Sure, spontaneous detours are fun… until you’re three hours off track with a grumpy co-pilot and an empty fuel tank. Plan your route ahead of time to cut down on emissions, save cash, and avoid unnecessary backtracking. Most map apps will help you out, but if you’re cruising our way, we’ve already done the hard yards for ya! Check out our carefully curated itineraries here to make sure you’re making the most our of your time in region.