Sunshine, salt air, stunning coastlines, and now, a little island magic. Queensland’s iconic Pacific Coast Way has just elevated, and it’s all thanks to a brand-new collab between SeaLink Marine & Tourism, Tourism & Events Queensland, and everyone’s favourite road tripping radio duo: Carrie Bickmore and Tommy Little.
Teaming up for the “Little Carrie-Van Adventure”, Carrie and Tommy are hitting the open road this September, broadcasting live from the Gold Coast to the Fraser Coast, wrapping things up on the jaw-dropping sands of Fraser Island (K’gari). And they’re bringing us all along for the ride. But here’s the twist: this isn’t just any Aussie road trip. With SeaLink in the mix, your car-based getaway now includes four unforgettable island escapes, from laid-back Magnetic Island to the crystal-clear waters of the Whitsundays. Welcome to Sealink’s Pacific Coast Way, Island Vibes Edition.
Let’s be real, Aussies are absolutely loving a good road trip right now. According to recent travel stats, 75% of us hit the highway for a domestic holiday last year. But SeaLink is flipping the script on what a road trip can be, because who says your car can’t hop a ferry? SeaLink’s new campaign invites travellers to stretch their road trip dreams beyond the mainland and onto Queensland’s most iconic island destinations. Think fewer traffic jams, more beachside bliss. And with a seamless booking hub at sealink.com.au, you can line up your entire road trip/island escape in one go.
So where will you be going?
North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah)
Kick things off just 30 minutes from Brisbane with a ferry ride to this Redlands Coast beauty. Spot whales from the headland, wander the North Gorge Walk, and dive deep into Quandamooka culture through immersive storytelling and tours.
Fraser Island (K’gari)
Next up: World Heritage site. Take the ferry from River Heads to the world’s largest sand island. Float in Lake McKenzie, marvel at the Maheno Shipwreck, or go all-out luxe at Kingfisher Bay Resort, now home to Illumina, Queensland’s first permanent light show.
Whitsunday Islands
Make a detour to Airlie Beach and cruise straight into a tropical daydream. Snorkel the outer reef with Red Cat Adventures, chill on Whitehaven Beach, or zoom across turquoise waters with a jet ski tour. Whether you’re into sailing, sunbaking, or sipping cocktails at sea, this one’s a no-brainer.
Magnetic Island
Wrap things up with 20 minutes of ferry time from Townsville to Maggie Island, where WWII relics meet cuddly koalas and reef adventures. Snorkel coral coves, hike to The Forts, or just kick back in one of the island’s relaxing beach cafés.
And because no road trip is complete without a killer playlist and a cheeky Instagram post, SeaLink’s bringing the goods:
- #SeaLinkPacificCoast Photo Comp – Tag your best road trip moment for the chance to win one of four $500 Brilliant Gift Cards.
- Island Vibes Playlist – Stream the ultimate road trip soundtrack, curated for coastal cruising and island-hopping vibes.
So, whether you’re chasing waterfalls, whales, or Whitehaven Beach, the Pacific Coast Way now comes with an unforgettable side of sand, sea, and stories to tell. Start planning your own dream road trip (with a tropical twist) over at sealink.com.au