From iconic beaches to reef adventures, this 23-day East Coast trip is your all-in-one ticket to explore Australia the easy way.
At just $117 a day (bus pass included), this is our most value-packed adventure with expert planning, exclusive perks, and zero stress.
Trip Start: Sydney (or Brisbane)
Trip End: Cairns
Or opt to do it in reverse
Length: 23 days
Destinations: Sydney, Byron Bay, Brisbane, Noosa, Rainbow Beach, K'gari, Airlie Beach, Whitsundays, Magnetic Island, Cairns
Inclusions:
- 18 nights in hostel accommodation
- Overnight buses between key stops
- 3-Day / 2-Night K'gari 4WD Tag Along Safari
- 2 nights sailing the Whitsundays on the Atlantic Clipper
- Full-day Great Barrier Reef snorkelling tour
- Full-day Waterfall Wanderers tour
- Flexible East Coast bus pass (worth up to $300)
- Ferry to Magnetic Island
- 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 23 days of epic experiences. From campfires on K’gari and snorkelling the Whitsundays to koala spotting on Magnetic and reef swims in Cairns, 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.
OPTIONAL: Surf Lesson or Kayak with Dolphins
Day 4 : Bus Byron Bay to Brisbane
Head up the East Coast to your next big and lively city. Today, you can explore the vibrant city of Brisbane! Start your day with a visit to South Bank Parklands, where you can enjoy the beautiful gardens and art installations. Take a dip in the public pool or savour brunch at one of the trendy cafes. End your day with a relaxing dinner at one of the many restaurants in the city!
Day 5 : Brisbane
On your second free day in Brisbane, you can discover the city's cultural highlights. Visit the Queensland Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art for a dose of inspiration and creativity. Stroll through the historic city centre to admire the stunning architecture, or go shopping in the unique boutiques of Fortitude Valley. If you're looking for an activity to do here in Brisbane, we can help you get on a Koala river cruise. A Koala & River Cruise is the perfect way to get up close and personal with Australia’s cuddliest creatures while enjoying the sights and sounds of Brisbane’s most attractive waterfront suburbs.
OPTIONAL: Koala and River Cruise
Day 6 : Bus Brisbane 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 7 : 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.
OPTIONAL: Noosa Everglades
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.
OPTIONAL: Surf Lesson or Kayak with Dolphins
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!
Meals : Lunch, Dinner
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.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12 : 3 Day / 2 Night K'gari Fraser Island Tag Along Safari
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.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch
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!
OPTIONAL: 60 minute scenic flight over the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef, including Heart Reef, Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet
Day 15 : Whitsundays Sailing Trip - Airlie Beach to Whitsundays
This 2 night Whitsundays tour offers the opportunity to explore the islands, including time to relax at the magnificent Whitehaven Beach, walk to the famous Hill Inlet Lookout. Experience up to 4 snorkelling locations to check out the magnificent fringing reef around the Islands (all part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park).
Meals : Dinner
Day 16 : Whitsundays Sailing Trip
Today you can enjoy multiple bush-walks and hikes (with lookouts and stunning views) - don't forget to charge up your phone/ camera! Enjoy Standout delicious meals made by the crew who are fun, and experienced and welcome you into the family. With 2 slides and an onboard jacuzzi you're bound to have a good time.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 17 : Whitsundays Sailing Trip - Whitsundays to Airlie Beach
Wake up on your final morning to that clear sea air before it's time for more thrilling sailing back to Airlie Beach. After your tour, keep the adventure alive and meet your crew and fellow passengers for a catch-up at the after-party in Airlie Beach – you will have a reserved table, drink discounts and meal deals!
Meals : Breakfast
Day 18 : Bus from Airlie Beach to Townsville - Magnetic Island
Today you'll make your way to Townsville where a ferry will take you to the stunning Magnetic Island (included!). Check-in for 2 nights and then kick back and relax on one of the island's many iconic beaches.
Day 19 : Magnetic Island
Today is yours free to soak in the sunshine of Magnetic Island for your final day here. A beautiful place for hiking, kayaking, and full relaxation! Explore Horseshoe Bay and Picnic Bay for a pristine beach day. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including koalas, rock wallabies, and over 180 species of birds.
Day 20 : Bus from Townsville to Cairns
Today you'll wave goodbye to Magnetic Island and hello to Cairns as you catch the ferry back to Townsville and then head further north. 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 21 : Great Barrier Reef / Cairns
This morning you can tick off one of Australia's must-do activities - a full day Great Barrier Reef tour. You'll board at 7:30 am for a day packed with fun and excitement as you explore the outer reef. With options to try snorkeling or even upgrade to scuba diving, you'll spend up to 6 hours discovering 2 spectacular reef locations. Swim alongside schools of tropical reef fish and admire amazing coral formations. Learn about the underwater ecosystem during a glass-bottom boat cruise and Marine Biology presentation. It's a true bucket-list experience that you won't want to miss!
Meals : Lunch
OPTIONAL: Scuba dive
Day 22 : Waterfall Wanderers / Cairns
Today prepare to be mesmerised by nature and wildlife within the ancient tropical rainforest. You'll explore Babinda Boulders, Josephine Falls (Natural rock slide), Crawfords Lookout (Beautiful lookout) and the stunning Millaa Millaa Falls (World famous hair flick waterfall). You will also have the opportunity to visit the dormant Volcanic Crater Lake filled with turtles and surrounded by wildlife. You will watch the sunset next to your last swim (don’t worry about getting cold the water in here never changes temperature, it's 23 degrees all day and all night)!
Meals : Lunch
Day 23 : Departure Cairns
This morning you will check out of your hostel 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, Cairns 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….?
Day 1 : Cairns
Start your East Coast adventure in 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 3 nights and then head out to explore the city.
Meals : None
Day 2 : Great Barrier Reef / Cairns
This morning you can tick off one of Australia's must-do activities - a full day Great Barrier Reef tour. You'll board at 7:30 am for a day packed with fun and excitement as you explore the outer reef. With options to try snorkeling or even upgrade to scuba diving, you'll spend up to 6 hours discovering 2 spectacular reef locations. Swim alongside schools of tropical reef fish and admire amazing coral formations. Learn about the underwater ecosystem during a glass-bottom boat cruise and Marine Biology presentation. It's a true bucket-list experience that you won't want to miss!
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch
OPTIONAL: Scuba dive
Day 3 : Waterfall Wanderers / Cairns
Today prepare to be mesmerised by nature and wildlife within the ancient tropical rainforest. You'll explore Babinda Boulders, Josephine Falls (Natural rock slide), Crawfords Lookout (Beautiful lookout) and the stunning Millaa Millaa Falls (World famous hair flick waterfall). You will also have the opportunity to visit the dormant Volcanic Crater Lake filled with turtles and surrounded by wildlife. You will watch the sunset next to your last swim (don’t worry about getting cold the water in here never changes temperature, it's 23 degrees all day and all night)!
Meals : Lunch
Day 4 : Bus to Townsville, Ferry to Magnetic Island
Today you'll make your way to Townsville where a ferry will take you to the stunning Magnetic Island (included!). Check-in for 2 nights and then kick back and relax on one of the island's many iconic beaches.
Meals : None
Day 5 : Magnetic Island
Today is yours free to soak in the sunshine of Magnetic Island for your final day here. A beautiful place for hiking, kayaking, and full relaxation! Explore Horseshoe Bay and Picnic Bay for a pristine beach day. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including koalas, rock wallabies, and over 180 species of birds.
Meals : None
Day 6 : Ferry to Magnetic Island, Bus to Airlie Beach
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!
Meals : None
Day 7 : Whitsundays Sailing Trip - Airlie Beach to Whitsundays
This 2 night Whitsundays tour offers the opportunity to explore the islands, including time to relax at the magnificent Whitehaven Beach, walk to the famous Hill Inlet Lookout. Experience up to 4 snorkelling locations to check out the magnificent fringing reef around the Islands (all part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park).
Meals : Dinner
Day 8 : Whitsundays Sailing Trip
Today you can enjoy multiple bush-walks and hikes (with lookouts and stunning views) - don't forget to charge up your phone/ camera! Enjoy Standout delicious meals made by the crew who are fun, and experienced and welcome you into the family. With 2 slides and an onboard jacuzzi you're bound to have a good time.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9 : Whitsundays Sailing Trip - Whitsundays to Airlie Beach
Wake up on your final morning to that clear sea air before it's time for more thrilling sailing back to Airlie Beach. After your tour, keep the adventure alive and meet your crew and fellow passengers for a catch-up at the after-party in Airlie Beach – you will have a reserved table, drink discounts and meal deals!
Meals : Breakfast
Day 10 : 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!
OPTIONAL: 60 minute scenic flight over the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef, including Heart Reef, Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet
Day 11 : 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.
OPTIONAL: Surf Lesson or Kayak with Dolphins
Day 12 : 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!
Meals : Lunch, Dinner
Day 13 : 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.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14 : 3 Day / 2 Night K'gari Fraser Island Tag Along Safari
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.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch
Day 15: Bus Rainbow Beach 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.
Meals : None
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.
OPTIONAL: Noosa Everglades
Day 17 : Bus Noosa to Brisbane
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.
Meals: None
Day 18 : Brisbane
On your second free day in Brisbane, you can discover the city's cultural highlights. Visit the Queensland Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art for a dose of inspiration and creativity. Stroll through the historic city centre to admire the stunning architecture, or go shopping in the unique boutiques of Fortitude Valley. If you're looking for an activity to do here in Brisbane, we can help you get on a Koala river cruise. A Koala & River Cruise is the perfect way to get up close and personal with Australia’s cuddliest creatures while enjoying the sights and sounds of Brisbane’s most attractive waterfront suburbs.
OPTIONAL: Koala and River Cruise
Day 19 : Bus Brisbane 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.
Meals : None
Day 20 : 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.
OPTIONAL: Surf Lesson or Kayak with Dolphins
Day 21: 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.
Meals: None
Day 22: Byron Bay and Overnight Bus to Sydney
Spend your day in Byron Bay before taking the overnight bus down to Sydney
Meals : None
Day 23: 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
