Embark on the ultimate adventure along Australia’s breathtaking East Coast, spanning 30 exhilarating days from Melbourne to Cairns. This amazing tour has all the amazing East Coast highlights in, where you'll have 30 days to explore these iconic destinations.
Kick off your journey in vibrant Melbourne, an artsy hub rich with culture. After settling in, hop on an overnight bus to Sydney, where you'll have two nights to explore its stunning sights, including the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. A thrilling day trip to the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains offers breathtaking views and nature trails.
Next, bask in the laid-back vibe of Byron Bay, famous for its surf and sunsets. Explore the stunning coastline, visit the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse, and embark on a day trip to nearby waterfalls. Your journey continues to Surfers Paradise, where the golden beaches and vibrant nightlife await.
In Brisbane, dive into the cultural scene, followed by relaxing days in Noosa, where you’ll explore national parks and the unique Noosa Everglades. A surf lesson at Rainbow Beach prepares you for the thrilling 3-day K'gari (Fraser Island) tag-along safari, featuring pristine lakes and wild dingoes.
Experience the enchanting Whitsundays with a two-night sailing trip, visiting Whitehaven Beach and snorkelling vibrant reefs. Relax and soak in the tropical beauty of Airlie Beach before heading to Magnetic Island, where you can unwind on stunning beaches and spot local wildlife.
Finally, discover Cairns, your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Spend a day snorkelling among colourful marine life and explore the lush landscapes of the Daintree Rainforest. With all accommodation, transport, and selected meals included, this adventure takes away the stress of planning, allowing you to focus on creating unforgettable memories. Join us for this once-in-a-lifetime journey filled with breathtaking scenery, thrilling activities, and unforgettable memories!
Day 1 : Overnight bus from Melbourne to Sydney
Your East Coast package starts in the fan favourite city of Melbourne! This artsy southern capital is worth a few extra days so we recommend arriving a little earlier. This evening, you'll hop on board your overnight bus to sunny Sydney!
Day 2 : Sydney
Welcome to Sydney! Check into your Sydney accommodation for 2 nights and then head out to explore all the city has to offer! Head to the Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House for some classic photos before wandering the museums and parks. As well as being one of Australia's most iconic cities, it also boasts heaps of awesome day trips including Bondi Beach, the Hunter Valley, and Blue Mountains tours!
Day 3 : Sydney - Blue Mountains
Hop on a small group tour for a day in the epic Blue Mountains National Park. See the highlights of the Majestic Blue Mountains with a knowledgeable tour guide who knows the area. The “Grand Canyon” of Australia, which is now World Heritage listed, has deep gorges, steep cliffs, spectacular lookouts, excellent bushwalks and rich flora and fauna. Get involved!
Day 4 : Overnight bus from Sydney to Byron Bay
Enjoy a free day to explore at your own pace, tonight, you'll hop on board the overnight bus that will take you to the iconic coastal town of Byron Bay.
Day 5 : 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. Explore the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse for breathtaking views, and unwind with a sunset walk along the sandy shores.
Day 6 : Byron Bay - Behind the bay
Today you'll check out a cool waterfall near Byron, with our Behind the Bay trip! Get some awesome pictures and soak up the beautiful nature. Enjoy some free time at different selected locations!
Day 7 : 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 8 : Bus from Byron Bay to Surfers Paradise
Head up the East Coast to popular Surfers Paradise where you can take a dip in the ocean and look at the city skyline at the same time! Explore the endless shoreline and vibrant nightlife for 2 nights.
Day 9 : Surfers Paradise
Today you can check out the dining scene here, with numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries at Surfers Paradise serving a variety of cuisines. Perhaps ride a wave... whether you are an experienced surfer or a beginner, the area offers excellent surfing conditions and a range of surf schools to help you learn.
Day 10 : Bus from Surfers paradise to Brisbane
Jump on board a bus to Brisbane in the Queensland Region where you will check-in for 2 nights. Spend your first day exploring the area! Brisbane is known for its thriving arts and cultural scene. You can explore the Queensland Cultural Centre, which houses several world-class museums and galleries.
Day 11 : Brisbane
Enjoy your free day in Brisbane! Opt for a koala river cruise, or take a leisurely stroll along the scenic South Bank Parklands, where you'll find picturesque views, riverside dining options, and the iconic Wheel of Brisbane.
Day 12 : Bus from Brisbane to Noosa
Today you will jump on the bus to Noosa. Arrive in the afternoon in the cool surf town. Get out, and explore the area!
Day 13 : Noosa
Enjoy your free day in Noosa. Visit the amazing national park and see the amazing fairy pools.
Day 14 : Noosa everglades
Today you will visit the world famous Noosa Everglades, with only two everglades in the world this one is not to be missed. Take your camera and capture this once in a lifetime experience!
Day 15 : Bus from Noosa to Rainbow Beach
Today, you’ll head up to Rainbow Beach. Check into your beachfront accommodation and then head out to explore! You'll be staying at this Rainbow Beach hostel for a total of 2 nights so get comfortable
Day 16 : Rainbow beach Surf lesson
Surfs up! It's time to tackle some waves like the locals. From Rainbow Beach your surf school will take you to the best beaches with perfect learning waves and will have you riding in no time! You’ll enjoy a half day Surf lesson with an expert local team and all equipment will be provided.
Day 17 : 3 Day / 2 Night K'gari Fraser Island Tag Along Safari – Dingos
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 18 : 3 Day / 2 Night K'gari Fraser Island Tag Along Safari – Dingos
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 19 : 3 Day / 2 Night K'gari Fraser Island Tag Along Safari – Dingos
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 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 20 : 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 21 : 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 22 : 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 23 : 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 24 : 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 25 : 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 (extra cost $36 AUD approx). Check-in for 2 nights and then kick back and relax on one of the island's many iconic beaches.
Day 26 : 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 27 : 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 28 : 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
Day 29 : 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 at your last swimming stop.
Day 30 : 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….?
This package has select departure dates.
Please contact our travel specialists to discuss your preferred date of travel.
Departs: Melbourne or Cairns
Returns: Cairns or Melbourne
You will need to pay the "Magnetic Island Ferry" cost directly (approx $36 AUD return ticket)
There is an optional driving insurance levy to pay directly for the K'gari 4WD Safari
The bus + package price includes a specific bus pass, selected to work with this trip length
Contact Us today if you wish to explore alternative trip lengths or transport options
Please note: If you are travelling in Peak Season between the 15th December to the 15th January 2024 there is a slight rate increase as reflected on our package pricing.
Please contact us for any questions.
