Whether you’ve just arrived on the Gold Coast or you’re wrapping up a few days of beaches and theme parks, the question is always the same: where to next? The Gold Coast sits between Byron Bay and Brisbane on JOEY’s east coast route, which means you’ve got options in both directions. Head south to Byron Bay, or north through Brisbane to Noosa and Rainbow Beach.
JOEY Travel runs a hop-on hop-off backpacker bus service along the east coast, connecting the Gold Coast south to Byron Bay and north through Brisbane, Noosa and all the way up to Rainbow Beach. Here’s everything you need to know about where you can go, what’s included, and how the routes work.
From the Gold Coast, JOEY Travel connects you to the following destinations:
All of these are covered under a single JOEY pass, so you can hop off wherever you want and catch the next bus when you’re ready to move on. No need to rebook or stress about missing a connection. Check out our one trip, three trip and 6 trip passes here.
The drive from the Gold Coast to Byron Bay takes roughly an hour to an hour and a half by road. It’s one of the shortest legs on the JOEY route and a natural first stop heading south.
Byron Bay is one of the most iconic stops on the east coast backpacker trail. Known for its beaches, surf culture, live music and laid-back atmosphere, it’s the kind of place that was supposed to be a two-night stop and ends up being two weeks. From the Gold Coast it’s an easy hop south and a completely different vibe when you get there.
The drive from the Gold Coast to Brisbane takes roughly over an hour by road. It’s a quick leg north and a natural stopover before continuing up to Noosa and Rainbow Beach.
Brisbane is well worth a stop in its own right. South Bank, Fortitude Valley, the CBD and the surrounding areas give you plenty to do. It’s also a great base if you want to explore the Scenic Rim or the hinterland before continuing north.
Rainbow Beach sits at the northern end of the JOEY route, beyond Noosa. The Gold Coast to Rainbow Beach bus takes around 6 hours. From the Gold Coast, you head north through Brisbane and Noosa before continuing up to Rainbow Beach, which is the main access point for K’gari (Fraser Island). The largest sand island in the world and one of the most unique experiences on the entire east coast. Well worth adding to your itinerary if you have the time.
The drive from the Gold Coast to Noosa takes roughly 3.5 hours by road. On JOEY, you travel via Brisbane, which breaks the journey up and gives you the chance to hop off and explore the city before continuing north.
Noosa is one of the highlights of the east coast. Hastings Street, the national park, Main Beach and the Noosa River make it a place that’s easy to love. It’s the kind of stop that fills up your camera roll and makes you rethink your timeline.
JOEY runs one core route along Australia’s east coast:
Byron Bay > Gold Coast > Brisbane > Noosa > Rainbow Beach
The service runs as a hop-on hop-off pass, meaning you purchase a pass that covers the full route and use it however suits your trip. You can travel the whole route end-to-end, or jump off at any stop and explore before catching the next bus. View the Joey Routes and Schedules here
JOEY offers three pass options designed for different types of trips:
Our shortest package, built for travellers who want a fast-paced run along the coast. Covers the core route with a curated selection of accommodation and inclusions.
See our 8 day package.
More time, same great route. The 11 Day Adventure gives you the flexibility to spend an extra night or two at your favourite stops and really settle into each place rather than rushing through.
Learn more about our 11 Day Adventure.
All the adventure, with upgraded experiences and stays. Designed for travellers who want a little more comfort without losing the backpacker community vibe that makes the east coast what it is.
Book our 11 Day Premium Package here.
All packages include accommodation, and a community of other travellers going the same way. It’s not just a bus. It’s a crew.
See all JOEY packages here.
If you’re based on the Gold Coast for a few days before heading out, there are some great day trips worth building into your itinerary.
If you’re staying elsewhere on the Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise is worth a visit for the strip, the beach and the energy. It’s the beating heart of the Gold Coast and best experienced at least once, even if you prefer the quieter stretches of sand.
About an hour inland from the Gold Coast, Springbrook is one of the most accessible rainforest day trips in South East Queensland. Waterfalls, ancient trees and clear air make it a great contrast to a few days on the beach.
Another solid hinterland option, Tamborine Mountain sits about 45 minutes from the Gold Coast and offers wineries, galleries, rainforest walks and views back towards the coast. Easy to do as a half day before catching the next JOEY north or south.
Yes. JOEY’s hop-on hop-off pass covers the full route from the Gold Coast south to Byron Bay.
See all JOEY passes here.
Yes. JOEY’s hop-on hop-off pass covers the full route from the Gold Coast north through Brisbane and Noosa, all the way up to Rainbow Beach.
You purchase a JOEY pass that covers the full route. At each stop, you decide how long you want to stay. When you’re ready to move on, you jump back on the next JOEY bus. There’s no fixed schedule you have to stick to, and accommodation is built into the pass.
Read our blog for more information on how your JOEY pass works.
JOEY passes include transport between all stops on the route. You can also book a JOEY package which includes accommodation and activities. Specific inclusions vary by package. Check the Packages page on joeytravel.com.au for a full breakdown of what’s included in each tier.
JOEY is built for independent travellers aged 18 to 35 who want to explore the east coast without the hassle of planning every leg themselves. If that sounds like you, JOEY is built for you.
Head to joeytravel.com.au to see current packages and pricing, or book a call with the team if you want to talk through which pass suits your trip.
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