Is there a direct train?

No, there is no direct train service between Gympie and Coffs Harbour.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 7 hours under normal traffic conditions.

Yes, you will encounter tolls on the M1 motorway near Brisbane.

There are no direct flights; you would need to fly from Brisbane Airport.

The Pacific Highway is a major dual-carriageway and is generally very safe.

Gympie

Coffs Harbour

Bus Driving

Gympie to Coffs Harbour

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Gympie to Coffs Harbour spans approximately 550 kilometers along the Pacific Highway. Most travelers prefer driving via the M1 Pacific Motorway for a direct route through the Gold Coast and Northern NSW. The trip typically takes 7 hours depending on traffic through Brisbane. You will pass through major regional hubs like Ballina and Grafton. This route offers a scenic transition from the Sunshine Coast hinterland to the lush Coffs Coast.

Total Distance: 550 km driving distance; 480 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the fastest, taking 7 hours without major stops.

Cheapest Way

Bus travel via Greyhound is the most cost-effective method, starting at 90 AUD.

Compare Gympie to Coffs Harbour Routes

	Bus Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	9 hours 30 mins	7 hours
Avg Price	90-130 AUD	120-160 AUD
Operator	Greyhound Australia	Personal Vehicle
Route	Gympie to Brisbane Roma Street, then transfer to Coffs Harbour.	M1 Pacific Motorway via Brisbane and Ballina.
Tip	Book your ticket online in advance to secure lower fares.	Avoid peak hour traffic in Brisbane by timing your departure for mid-morning.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill up in major towns like Ballina to avoid higher prices in remote stretches.
Traffic Alerts
Check Live Traffic NSW for roadwork updates on the Pacific Highway.
Rest Breaks
Stop every two hours at designated driver reviver stations to prevent fatigue.
Booking
Reserve your accommodation in Coffs Harbour early during school holiday periods.
Navigation
Download offline maps as mobile reception can be patchy in some hinterland sections.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Be cautious of kangaroos at dawn and dusk, especially near forested areas.
Weather
Check for heavy rain warnings during summer months which can cause localized flooding.
Fatigue
Share the driving duties if traveling with a partner to maintain alertness.
Emergency
Keep a physical road map in your glovebox for emergencies.