In short, yes, it is absolutely worth doing a road trip from Sydney to Brisbane. If you stick to the coastline and stop at the many sunny, beachside towns along the way, there are ample National Parks and secluded beach strips for you to uncover.

The choice between driving and flying from Sydney to Brisbane depends on whether you value time or the journey itself. Flying is the most efficient option; the flight time is only about 1.5 hours, and with several carriers (Qantas, Virgin, Jetstar) operating the route frequently, you can often find competitive prices. Including airport transit, the total travel time is roughly 4 hours. Driving, on the other hand, is a significant undertaking, covering roughly 920 kilometers (570 miles) and taking about 10 to 12 hours of pure driving time. However, the Pacific Highway is one of Australia’s most scenic coastal routes, offering stops at iconic locations like Port Macquarie, Byron Bay, and the Gold Coast. If you have a few days and want to turn the trip into a holiday with a family or a pet, driving is far superior. But for a weekend trip or business travel, flying is the logical choice, as the cost of fuel and tolls (which are numerous on the highway) can often equal or exceed the price of a budget airline ticket.