Many travellers dream of waking up to the gentle sound of waves rolling in along the Sunshine Coast, coffee in hand and a day of relaxed exploring ahead. If that sounds like your kind of holiday, you’re not alone — it’s one of the most popular regions for couples choosing campervan hire Sunshine Coast itineraries.
But here’s something that often surprises first-timers: although people search for campervan hire directly on the Sunshine Coast, the closest motorhome depots are actually located near Brisbane Airport. Fortunately, the Sunshine Coast is only a short and very scenic drive away, making Brisbane the ideal pickup point. You get all the convenience of major-city depots with the relaxed, coastal holiday you’re aiming for.
For mature travellers, this combination works beautifully. You have the ease of collecting your motorhome close to the airport — no fuss, no long transfers — and within ninety minutes you’re settling into that gentle Sunshine Coast pace. And if you ever prefer a holiday where all the planning is done for you, our escorted motorhome tours are a friendly, confidence-building option.
Why Start Your Journey in Brisbane?
Even when travellers are planning a route focused entirely on the Sunshine Coast, they typically book through motorhome hire Brisbane for several helpful reasons:
1. Brisbane Airport Is the Main Hub
Most vehicle depots are within a short, simple drive of Brisbane Airport. Once you’re on the road, the highway north is straightforward and well signed.
2. A Relaxed Drive to the Sunshine Coast
The drive from Brisbane to Caloundra or Mooloolaba is manageable and gentle, making it ideal for mature travellers easing into a motorhome holiday. You can take your time, stop for a cuppa, and arrive at your first destination without rushing.
3. Better Vehicle Availability
Brisbane depots generally offer more motorhome layouts, giving you the freedom to choose something comfortable and easy to handle — perfect for couples wanting space without anything too complicated.
Many travellers naturally search for campervan hire Sunshine Coast, thinking it makes sense to collect their vehicle right where they plan to holiday. But in reality, the Sunshine Coast doesn’t have motorhome depots, and Brisbane offers far better vehicle availability and choice. With the depots conveniently located near Brisbane Airport and only a short, easy drive from the coast, it’s the most practical and comfortable starting point for the Sunshine Coast itinerary you have in mind.
We can offer motorhome and campervan hire personalised advise to make the planning and booking part very easy for you.
Your 7-Day Sunshine Coast Motorhome Itinerary
Day 1 – Brisbane Pickup to Caloundra
Collect your motorhome from the depot near Brisbane Airport, get familiar with the setup, and begin your relaxed northbound drive. Within a short time you’ll be rolling into Caloundra, where calm beaches and a seaside boardwalk make for a gentle first afternoon. Fish and chips by the water sounds like a perfect start to the holiday!
Day 2 – Mooloolaba’s Coastal Energy
A short drive brings you to Mooloolaba. Enjoy a relaxed wander along the beachfront, visit the marina, or simply find a shady spot with a sea breeze and watch the world go by. The area is very motorhome-friendly, especially early in the day.
Day 3 – Cotton Tree & Maroochydore
Cotton Tree is one of those places where the peaceful river, the friendly local paths, and the soft afternoon light make you feel instantly settled. Many travellers love staying here thanks to the easy walking, the pleasant foreshore, and the handy holiday parks.
Day 4 – Eumundi Markets & Hinterland Drive
A morning at Eumundi Markets offers colour, craft, and local produce. After lunch, head inland to the Blackall Range. The drive winds through forested hills, offering little glimpses of the coast as you climb.
Day 5 – Montville & Maleny
These two hinterland towns are ideal for a slower day. Browse galleries, taste local cheese, and take in sweeping views from quiet lookouts. The cooler air and gentle breezes are such a contrast to the coast — a beautiful reminder of how diverse this region can be.
Day 6 – Noosa National Park
Noosa is always a highlight. Its national park offers shaded walking tracks with stunning ocean views. Start early for soft light and fewer crowds. After your walk, the river area or Noosa Heads beachfront is perfect for a slow lunch and a relaxed afternoon.
Day 7 – Noosa River & Return Drive
Spend your final morning enjoying the peaceful river or browsing the local shops before beginning the easy drive back towards Brisbane. This is where having started with campervan hire Sunshine Coast via Brisbane really pays off — your return is simple and stress-free.
Thinking About a Longer Adventure?
If this trip leaves you wanting more, it’s quite common for travellers to look at bigger adventures as well. Routes like the iconic Brisbane to Darwin road trip offer a wonderful mix of coastal, outback, and Top End landscapes. And if you prefer an organised experience with expert support and friendly company, our Brisbane to Darwin escorted tour is an easy and enjoyable way to explore that incredible route.
Others like to continue all the way from Brisbane to Cairns – we have great resources that make it easy to plan such a big adventure, from campground and popular activity suggestions down to giving inside tips on those hidden gems. You’ll love our travel guide that will be provided as part of your motorhome hire with us on iconic routes such as travelling around Queensland.
Practical Tips for Your Sunshine Coast Adventure
- Driving comfort: Distances between Sunshine Coast destinations are short, making this itinerary ideal for mature travellers.
- Best seasons: April to October offers pleasant days and cooler nights.
- Holiday parks: Consider booking ahead for coastal sites, especially near Noosa.
- Motorhome familiarity: Take 20–30 minutes at the Brisbane depot to learn your layout and features before leaving.
- Arrival tips: If flying in, stay the first night in Brisbane or begin the short drive north after coffee and a stretch.
Why Travel with Gallivanting Oz
With more than 15 years of helping travellers explore Australia by motorhome, we’re here to make your journey comfortable, confident, and enjoyable. Our team takes pride in understanding what mature couples value — clear guidance, friendly support, and sensible travel advice grounded in real experience.
If you’re curious about our approach, you can always learn more about us on the Gallivanting Oz website.
Ready to Plan Your Sunshine Coast Escape?
Choosing campervan hire Sunshine Coast (with a simple pickup from Brisbane Airport) gives you the best of both worlds — convenience at the start, and a beautifully relaxed coastal holiday from the moment you arrive. If you’d like some personalised help choosing the right motorhome or planning your itinerary, our team is always happy to help. Simply get in touch for friendly advice whenever you’re ready.
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