Sometimes the best adventures don’t require a plane ticket, just a packed bag, a full tank, and the open road.
Bundaberg is the perfect base for weekend escapes, with everything from coastal gems and country towns to natural wonders just a short drive away. Whether you’re after a laid-back beach break, foodie finds, or an outdoor adventure, here are some top road trip ideas to inspire your next getaway.
1. Bargara and the Coral Coast (allow 3-5 hours)
Just 15 minutes from the CBD, Bargara is a seaside favourite for good reason. Stroll the foreshore, cycle the Turtle Trail, or stop by the Mon Repos Turtle Centre (open year round, or visit over summer for the famous turtle encounters). From Bargara, continue along the coast to the south to explore Innes Park, Coral Cove and the Barolin Rocks dive site, and the sparkling blue waters and white sands of Elliott Heads, each offering plenty of spots to unwind.
Local tips:
- Grab a coffee at one of the waterfront cafés and watch the sunrise over the shore.
- Try a paddleboard at Elliott Heads for calmer waters and a chance to spot rays or turtles.
- Check out the quirky coastal artworks along the Bargara foreshore including the award-winning Milbi Magic Mosaics for a mini scavenger hunt.
2. Childers charm (allow 3-5 hours)
About 40 minutes’ drive inland, Childers is a heritage town with a colourful main street lined with historic buildings, art galleries, and lots of local shops. Learn more about local history at the Palace Backpackers Memorial, sample wines at a nearby vineyard, or take the kids to the Snakes Downunder zoo, there really is something for everyone.
Local tips:
- The volunteer-run Old Pharmacy Museum is a treasure-trove of history and insta-worthy collections.
- The Childers Visitor Information Centre is your first stop for information on the local area
3. Gin Gin country escape (allow 2-4 hours)
Heading west, Gin Gin offers a taste of the country. Known as the “Gateway to the Outback,” this relaxed town is surrounded by rolling hills and farming land. Stop into the Gin Gin Historical Village for a step back in time, or take a scenic drive through Mount Perry for views that stretch forever.
Local tips:
- The Gin Gin Tourist Centre is a volunteer run gem in the middle of town - drop in and meet a local for the best tips for your visit
4. Southern Great Barrier Reef adventures (full day / overnight options)
Okay, so technically you can't drive to the Reef but you can take a plane or boat and that counts when you're visiting one of the world's greatest natural treasures, right?
Lady Musgrave Island (allow 10–12 hours or stay overnight)
Swap the car keys for a reef cruise, departing from Burnett Heads with Lady Musgrave Experience. Explore the southern Great Barrier Reef with snorkelling, glass-bottom boat rides, and guided island walks.
Overnight reef sleep experiences let you stargaze on the pontoon and wake to the sound of the ocean.
Lady Elliot Island (allow 10–12 hours or stay overnight)
Take a scenic flight for a full-day eco-tour to Lady Elliot Island, the southern-most coral cay at the tip of the Great Barrier Reef. Swim with manta rays and turtles, snorkel pristine reef sites, or enjoy a guided reef walk to learn about the island’s unique wildlife and coral ecology.
Overnight stays are available at the eco-resort for a magical reef sunrise.
Local tips:
- Bring a waterproof camera - you’ll want to capture the marine life.
- Keep a reef-safe sunscreen handy to protect the coral.
- Depending on the season, be sure to look out for the islands' quirky resident birds, manta rays and nesting turtles.
- If timing allows, plan around low tide for a short reef walk at Lady Musgrave.
5. North Burnett road trip (allow 6-10 hours)
A longer weekend roadie takes you into the North Burnett. Explore towns like Gayndah (famous for citrus), Mundubbera, and Eidsvold, each with their own slice of country hospitality. Take a walk at Mt Walsh National Park near Biggenden or explore Cania Gorge’s stunning sandstone cliffs and caves.
Local tips:
- Pick up fresh oranges in Gayndah, and pop into the Big Orange.
- Mt Walsh, near Biggenden, offers spectacular panoramic views for those with sufficient fitness and experience.
- Explore Cania Gorge’s hidden sandstone secrets and look for native wildlife - this is best explored over a couple of days if you have the time!