From iconic beaches to reef adventures, this 21-day East Coast trip is your all-in-one ticket to explore Australia the easy way.
At just $110 a day (bus pass included), this is our most value-packed adventure with expert planning, exclusive perks, and zero stress.
Trip Start: Sydney
Trip End: Cairns
Or opt to do it in reverse
Length: 21 days
Destinations: Sydney, Byron Bay, Noosa, Rainbow Beach, K'gari, Airlie Beach, Whitsundays, Cairns
Inclusions:
- 16 nights in hostel accommodation
- Overnight buses between key stops
- 3-Day / 2-Night K'gari 4WD Tag Along Safari
- Epic Whitsundays day trip
- Flexible East Coast bus pass (worth up to $300)
- Some meals included
- Access to Peterpans exclusive perks (discounts, welcome drinks, local tips)
- Flexibility to customise your trip: Add Byron Bay surfing, Everglades kayaking, or a Whitsundays scenic flight depending on your time and budget.
Why You'll Love This Trip
This trip takes the guesswork out of planning and replaces it with 21 days of epic experiences. From campfires on K’gari and snorkelling the Whitsundays, this is the ultimate highlights route for backpackers who want the best value, the most iconic stops, and the freedom to customise.
Plus we have the best prices out there, guaranteed!
This trip is perfect for:
- Travellers looking for maximum value without compromising experience
- Solo backpackers who want the freedom to explore, not be locked into a group
- First-timers in Australia who want the top coastal highlights in one trip
- Those already in Sydney or Brisbane looking for a flexible start point
- Anyone who wants a done-for-you itinerary with built-in perks and expert help
Day 1 : Overnight bus from Sydney to Byron Bay
Your adventure kicks off in stunning Sydney city where you'll have time to explore all the highlights including the Sydney Opera House and Darling Harbour. Looking at arriving a few days earlier to explore the best of Sydney tours? Chat with our travel experts today to find the best prices on day trips and Sydney accommodation. Tonight, you'll hop on board the overnight bus that will take you to the iconic coastal town of Byron Bay.
Day 2 : Byron Bay
Arrive in the vibrant coastal town, where the scent of saltwater fills the air. Settle into a cozy hostel and hit the beach for some sun and surf. Unwind with a sunset walk along the sandy shores.
Day 3 : Byron Bay
Today you can soak up Byron Bays' charm and relaxed atmosphere. It is also a hub for artists, musicians, and creatives, plus you'll find a vibrant arts scene, live music performances, street markets, and an array of unique and eclectic shops. With stunning coastal walks as well as plenty of hinterlands, and awesome nightlife - there's plenty to keep you busy. If you want to make the most of this free day, head to the iconic lighthouse to do the famous Lighthouse Walk.
Day 4 : Byron Bay
Take your time to relax and enjoy this classic coastal town. Why not take a surf lesson? Or explore the hinterlands on one of the amazing tours of the Northern Rivers.
Day 5: Bus from Byron to Noosa
Escape to Noosa, where the sun-kissed beaches meet lush hinterlands, creating the perfect backdrop for your next getaway. With its stunning landscapes and vibrant coastal culture, Noosa invites you to indulge in a luxurious yet relaxed lifestyle.
Day 6: Noosa
Enjoy another free day in Noosa. Visit the amazing national park and see the amazing fairy pools. Why not go and visit the world famous Noosa Everglades, with only two everglades in the world this one is not to be missed.
Day 7: Noosa
Relax and unwind. Take a walk among the boutiques on Hastings street, rent a BBQ boat on the river or take a surf lesson on the main beach.
Day 8 : Bus from Noosa to Rainbow Beach
Today, you’ll head up to Rainbow Beach. Check into the Freedom hostel and then head out to explore! You'll be staying at this Rainbow Beach hostel for a total of 3 nights so get comfortable! Make sure to check out the amazing sunset at the Carlo Sand Blow.
Day 9 : Rainbow Beach
Today, immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Rainbow Beach! Start your day with a walk along the pristine shoreline, where you can feel the soft sand between your toes and enjoy the breathtaking views of the ocean. If you're looking for a day with some adrenaline, this is your last chance to catch some waves. We could help you get on a cool surf lesson here with our professional instructors on the longest wave in Australia.
Day 10 : 3 Day / 2 Night K'gari Fraser Island Tag Along Safari
Your Fraser Island adventure begins with a quick morning brief at Freedom Hostel. At 9:30 am, depart for Fraser Island and drive approximately 10 minutes to the barge (ferry) and board for your 10-minute barge crossing. Once you have arrived on the world's largest sand island, drive for 1 hour to the Eurong Beach Resort along 75 Mile beach - Fraser Island's own sand highway with speed limits! There you can grab a coffee and chocolate croissant (own cost) for morning tea. From here, the adventure really begins, as we drive to the famous Lake McKenzie, one of the most popular and picturesque highlights of Fraser. We stop for lunch and time to swim and relax in the amazingly clear waters of the lake before driving up the beach to your campsite. Settle in for an early dinner, some well-deserved drinks and plenty of fun!
Day 11 : 3 Day / 2 Night K'gari Fraser Island Tag Along Safari
The day begins with a quick breakfast to fuel your busiest day on Fraser Island! First stop is Eli Creek, a beautifully clear creek perfect for a relaxing swim. Travelling north, stop at Maheno Shipwreck for a photo opportunity and a short history lesson about this famous Fraser Island icon before continuing on to Indian Head. Fraser Island's highest point, from here you may be lucky enough to see whales and sharks in the ocean before travelling to Champagne Pools for a drop. Lunch is served at either Maheno Shipwreck or Champagne Pools on Day 2 depending on time constraints, safety and beauty. In the afternoon, travel back to camp for dinner and drinks.
Day 12 : 3 Day / 2 Night K'gari Fraser Island Tag Along Safari / Rainbow Beach
Start with breakfast before cleaning and disassembling your campsite. Once packed up, you'll drive to the beginning of the Lake Wabby walk where you'll stride through the dunes to find a tropical paradise! Lunch follows your trip to Lake Wabby before you begin the drive down the beach and back to the barge. Once you’ve arrived on the mainland, head to the 4WD shed where you can unpack and quickly clean the cars. You will return to Freedom Hostel between 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm, depending on the tides.
Day 13 : Rainbow Beach and Overnight bus to Airlie Beach
Enjoy a free day in Rainbow Beach. Watch the sunset right before you hop on your overnight bus to Airlie Beach!
Day 14 : Airlie Beach
You'll arrive in the tropical paradise of Airlie Beach bright and early. This morning you'll check into your central Airlie Beach accommodation. No time to waste! Drop your bags and head out to explore this beachside town before preparing for your Whitsundays tour tomorrow!
Day 15 : Airlie Beach
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Airlie Beach, where the bars, restaurants, and nightclubs keep you entertained until the wee hours of the morning. Thrill-seekers can indulge in adventure activities like skydiving and jet skiing - just ask us for more information! The town's relaxed and laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for everyone to enjoy
Day 16 : Whitsundays Day Trip
Cruise out to one of Whitsunday's most picturesque islands and jump in the water to experience what all this fuss about Whitsundays Snorkelling is about. With 2 tropical snorkelling opportunities and Whitehaven beach you'll see the most vibrant marine life, the colours are simply breathtaking. You’ll arrive back at Airlie Beach around 5 pm with a bucket load of memories!
Day 17: Bus from Airlie Beach to Cairns
Today you'll wave goodbye to the Whitsundays and hello to Cairns. Cairns is the gateway to both the Great Barrier Reef as well as the Daintree Rainforest and offers heaps of awesome activities for travellers from nature to extreme sports! Check into your Cairns accommodation for 2 nights and then head out to explore the city.
Day 18: Cairns
Why not take the opportunity to tick off one of Australia's must-do activities - a full day Great Barrier Reef tour? Contact our team to add this onto your package!
Day 19: Cairns
Want to visit the oldest rainforest in the world? Or keen to go chasing waterfalls? Talk to our team to add on some epic nature related activities.
Day 20: Cairns
Chasing an adrenaline hit in Cairns? You can you add on a skydive over the Great Barrier Reef. You can free-fall from up to 15,000 feet with panoramic views of lush rainforests, tropical coastline and turquoise reef stretching to the horizon. Or plummet to the ground on a 50 metre bungy jump. The choice is yours!
Day 21: Cairns Departure
Today you check out of your hostel and wave goodbye to your East Coast adventure as you set off on the rest of your travels. We hope you have made memories to last a lifetime and hope to help you on your next journey! Fiji or New Zealand anyone….?
Day 1: Cairns
Your adventure kicks off in stunning Cairns! Cairns is the gateway to both the Great Barrier Reef as well as the Daintree Rainforest and offers heaps of awesome activities for travellers from nature to extreme sports! Check into your Cairns accommodation for 2 nights and then head out to explore the city.
Day 2: Cairns
Chasing an adrenaline hit in Cairns? You can you add on a skydive over the Great Barrier Reef. You can free-fall from up to 15,000 feet with panoramic views of lush rainforests, tropical coastline and turquoise reef stretching to the horizon. Or plummet to the ground on a 50 metre bungy jump. The choice is yours!
Day 3: Cairns
Want to visit the oldest rainforest in the world? Or keen to go chasing waterfalls? Talk to our team to add on some epic nature related activities.
Day 4: Cairns
Why not take the opportunity to tick off one of Australia's must-do activities - a full day Great Barrier Reef tour? Contact our team to add this onto your package!
Day 5: Bus from Cairns to Airlie Beach
Today you'll wave goodbye to Cairns and hello to Airlie Beach. You'll arrive in the tropical paradise of Airlie Beach.
Day 6: Whitsundays Sailing Trip - Airlie Beach to Whitsundays
Cruise out to one of Whitsunday's most picturesque islands and jump in the water to experience what all this fuss about Whitsundays Snorkelling is about. With 2 tropical snorkelling opportunities and Whitehaven beach you'll see the most vibrant marine life, the colours are simply breathtaking. You’ll arrive back at Airlie Beach around 5 pm with a bucket load of memories!
Day 7: Airlie Beach
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Airlie Beach, where the bars, restaurants, and nightclubs keep you entertained until the wee hours of the morning. Thrill-seekers can indulge in adventure activities like skydiving and jet skiing - just ask us for more information! The town's relaxed and laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for everyone to enjoy
Day 8: Airlie Beach and Overnight bus to Rainbow Beach
Enjoy a free day in Airlie Beach. Watch the sunset right before you hop on your overnight bus to Rainbow beach!
Day 9 : Rainbow Beach
Today, immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Rainbow Beach! Start your day with a walk along the pristine shoreline, where you can feel the soft sand between your toes and enjoy the breathtaking views of the ocean. If you're looking for a day with some adrenaline, this is your first chance to catch some waves. We could help you get on a cool surf lesson here with our professional instructors on the longest wave in Australia.
Day 10 : 3 Day / 2 Night K'gari Fraser Island Tag Along Safari
Your Fraser Island adventure begins with a quick morning brief at Freedom Hostel. At 9:30 am, depart for Fraser Island and drive approximately 10 minutes to the barge (ferry) and board for your 10-minute barge crossing. Once you have arrived on the world's largest sand island, drive for 1 hour to the Eurong Beach Resort along 75 Mile beach - Fraser Island's own sand highway with speed limits! There you can grab a coffee and chocolate croissant (own cost) for morning tea. From here, the adventure really begins, as we drive to the famous Lake McKenzie, one of the most popular and picturesque highlights of Fraser. We stop for lunch and time to swim and relax in the amazingly clear waters of the lake before driving up the beach to your campsite. Settle in for an early dinner, some well-deserved drinks and plenty of fun!
Day 11 : 3 Day / 2 Night K'gari Fraser Island Tag Along Safari
The day begins with a quick breakfast to fuel your busiest day on Fraser Island! First stop is Eli Creek, a beautifully clear creek perfect for a relaxing swim. Travelling north, stop at Maheno Shipwreck for a photo opportunity and a short history lesson about this famous Fraser Island icon before continuing on to Indian Head. Fraser Island's highest point, from here you may be lucky enough to see whales and sharks in the ocean before travelling to Champagne Pools for a drop. Lunch is served at either Maheno Shipwreck or Champagne Pools on Day 2 depending on time constraints, safety and beauty. In the afternoon, travel back to camp for dinner and drinks.
Day 12 : 3 Day / 2 Night K'gari Fraser Island Tag Along Safari / Rainbow Beach
Start with breakfast before cleaning and disassembling your campsite. Once packed up, you'll drive to the beginning of the Lake Wabby walk where you'll stride through the dunes to find a tropical paradise! Lunch follows your trip to Lake Wabby before you begin the drive down the beach and back to the barge. Once you’ve arrived on the mainland, head to the 4WD shed where you can unpack and quickly clean the cars. You will return to Freedom Hostel between 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm, depending on the tides.
Day 13: Rainbow Beach
Enjoy another day in this beautiful little beach town, hangout by the hostel pool, sandboard down the Carlo Sandblow and get some insta-worthy pics at the Rainbow Beach stairs.
Day 14: Rainbow Beach and bus to Noosa
Today, you’ll head to Noosa. Check into your hostel and then head out to explore! You'll be staying at this hostel for a total of 3 nights so get comfortable!
Day 15: Noosa
Escape to Noosa, where the sun-kissed beaches meet lush hinterlands, creating the perfect backdrop for your next getaway. With its stunning landscapes and vibrant coastal culture, Noosa invites you to indulge in a luxurious yet relaxed lifestyle.
Day 16: Noosa
Enjoy another free day in Noosa. Visit the amazing national park and see the amazing fairy pools. Why not go and visit the world famous Noosa Everglades, with only two everglades in the world this one is not to be missed.
Day 17: Bus from Noosa to Byron Bay
Arrive in the vibrant coastal town, where the scent of saltwater fills the air. Settle into a cozy hostel and hit the beach for some sun and surf. Unwind with a sunset walk along the sandy shores.
Day 18: Byron Bay
Today you can soak up Byron Bays' charm and relaxed atmosphere. It is also a hub for artists, musicians, and creatives, plus you'll find a vibrant arts scene, live music performances, street markets, and an array of unique and eclectic shops. With stunning coastal walks as well as plenty of hinterlands, and awesome nightlife - there's plenty to keep you busy. If you want to make the most of this free day, head to the iconic lighthouse to do the famous Lighthouse Walk.
Day 19: Byron Bay
Today you can soak up Byron Bays' charm and relaxed atmosphere. It is also a hub for artists, musicians, and creatives, plus you'll find a vibrant arts scene, live music performances, street markets, and an array of unique and eclectic shops.
Day 20: Byron Bay and Overnight Bus to Sydney
Spend your day in Byron Bay before taking the overnight bus down to Sydney
Day 21: Arrive in Sydney
This morning you will arrive in Sydney and wave goodbye to your East Coast adventure! If you want to add some time to this trip but don’t want to add on destinations, Sydney is a great place to add on a few nights and explore! Say goodbye to like-minded friends and set off on the rest of your travels. We hope you have made memories to last a lifetime and hope to help you on your next adventure! Fiji or New Zealand anyone….?
Choose your Start and End location
Cairns > Sydney
OR
Sydney > Cairns
None
- Surf lesson
- Kayaking with dolphins
- Scenic flight
- Bungy jumping
- Skydiving
- Great Barrier Reef trip (snorkel or dive)
- Waterfalls trip
- River Rafting
Looking to extend your trip? Add on some epic overnight experiences
- Whitsundays Overnight Sailing Trip
- Great Barrier Reef Liveaboard
- Overnight Rainforest Tour
Contact our team to add any of these activities to your package
