The Roo lives life to the fullest and this 16-Day Tour from vibrant Byron Bay to tropical Cairns is all about fun!
With a local guide (who will share their insider knowledge) and a bunch of like-minded travellers (who will become lifelong friends) you’ll explore everything that Aussie has to offer in your own private bus so we can see more and do more!
From the city to a remote sand island, to canoeing and sailing, there are so many awesome inclusions with the Stray Roo Byron Bay to Cairns Tour:
Drop into the iconic Surfers Paradise and enjoy views of kilometres of golden sand beaches
Spot wild kangaroos in their natural habitat
Spend a night exploring the buzzing riverside city of Brisbane
Embark on a 3-day 4WD Safari to Fraser Island. Camp under the stars, visit a shipwreck and swim in crystal clear waters before enjoying sundowners at sunset
Stay at the relaxed seaside town of Bargara and taste some of Bundaberg's famous rum
Explore the breath-taking Whitsunday Islands during a 2-days/2-night sailing trip. Snorkel over vibrant fringing reefs and visit some of the world's most pristine beaches
Discover the magic of the Atherton Tablelands - from amazing waterfalls and lush rainforest to a pristine crater lake!
Enjoy the relaxed Cairns lifestyle and the fun nightlife that it’s famous for!
*From October 1st 2023 discover the nature lovers paradise of Magnetic Island
Day 1 - Sunday: Byron Bay to Brisbane via Surfers Paradise
This morning, meet your guide and group outside the Surf House hostel at 8:50 am. Then we’ll jump on the Stray bus and depart north across the NSW border to Queensland. We’ll head to the famous Surfers Paradise, where we’ll stretch our legs and grab some lunch. Next, we’ll visit a nearby nature reserve to spot some wild kangaroos, before continuing to Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland, for the night. This evening, we recommend going for a stroll down to Southbank for a walk along the Brisbane River and checking out some of the many bars and restaurants.
- Accommodation: Roamer Brisbane or similar
- Meal options: Self-cater, local cafes, restaurants
- Free activities: Visit Surfers Paradise, kangaroo spotting, catch the Brisbane city ferry
Day 2 - Monday: Brisbane to Noosa
Have a sleep-in this morning before leaving Brisbane and heading north to Noosa. We’ll stop along the way to stretch our legs and see the amazing panoramic views of the Glasshouse Mountains and the Sunshine Coast, before enjoying lunch in the quirky town of Eumundi, known for its artisanal crafts. We’ll go for another walk to see some final views of Noosa and its gorgeous headlands before arriving at our accommodation in the afternoon.
Our Noosa accommodation is less of a hostel and more of a resort, with a pool and a licensed bar/café (did someone say poolside margaritas?) as well as designer dorms with privacy screens and USB charging points. This evening, we’ll grab a drink and dinner at the bar and make plans to explore Noosa.
- Accommodation: Bounce
- Meals included: Breakfast, drink on arrival
- Meal options: Self-cater, local cafes, dinner at the hostel
- Free activities: Swim, walks, lookouts
Day 3 - Tuesday: Noosa Free Day
Today you have a completely free day to spend however you like. Explore the Everglades by kayak or book a skydive to see Noosa and its surroundings from above. Grab a sun lounger and enjoy some much-needed R&R, go for a walk around the incredible headland, visit the beach, or have a long, lazy lunch in the sun. The Noosa Surf Club is one of our favourites, so if you’re planning to go out for dinner, you can’t go wrong with this local hotspot!
- Accommodation: Bounce
- Meals included: Breakfast
- Meal options: Self-cater, local cafes, restaurants
- Free activities: Relax by the resort pool, take a walk in the National Park, visit the beach, or check out the local boutiques and cafés
- Optional paid activities: Everglades Cruise and/or Canoe, Skydive
Day 4 - Wednesday: Noosa to K’gari (formerly Fraser Island)
It’s an early start this morning as you head out for your 3-day, 2-night K’gari (formerly Fraser Island) adventure. During this amazing experience, you’ll explore the largest sand island in the world on a 4WD expedition, see the magical Lake Boorangoora (McKenzie), discover towering rainforests, spot a wild dingo, cruise along endless sandy beaches, and lose yourself in the magic of stargazing. If you fancy learning how to drive a 4WD, you can do that! This is going to be one of the best experiences of your whole trip and is definitely the coolest way to explore this World Heritage-listed National Park.
After a bus, ferry, and 4WD transfer, you’ll arrive at The Eco Retreat on K’gari (your accommodation for the next 2 nights). You’ll have a tasty lunch and then check out the retreat’s ocean views before heading out for your first adventure to see some of the island’s highlights. This evening, enjoy dinner, practice throwing a boomerang, share stories, and learn to play the didgeridoo around the campfire. Tonight, you’ll be lulled to sleep by the sound of the waves as you settle into your beach cabin accommodation.
- Accommodation: The Eco Retreat on K’gari
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Snacks
- Included activities: K’gari adventure tour
- Do More: Take part in a beach cleanup to help preserve this paradise as nature intended.
Day 5 - Thursday: K’gari (formerly Fraser Island)
Wake up to the gorgeous golden sunrise over the ocean, enjoy breakfast, and prepare for a fun-filled morning exploring K’gari and its hidden treasures. Enjoy lunch on the beach and spend the afternoon discovering more lakes (there are over 100!) and epic views before arriving back at The Eco Retreat for another dinner under the stars and some evening activities.
- Accommodation: The Eco Retreat on K’gari
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Snacks
- Included activities: K’gari adventure tour
Day 6 - Friday: K’gari (formerly Fraser Island) to Bundaberg
After breakfast, hit the inland tracks to discover towering trees and enjoy one last refreshing dip. Have lunch in the forest, then begin your journey back to the mainland, arriving at Rainbow Beach in the mid-afternoon. From here, continue your journey north to Bundaberg. Bundaberg is famous for sugarcane, rum, ginger beer, and has earned the nickname the ‘Bundaberg Bowl’ for its abundance of fresh food served across the country. Your accommodation is a relaxed eco-resort located by a nature reserve in the coastal suburb of Bargara, complete with access to a spa, sauna, tennis courts, and more—yes, we treat you well!
- Accommodation: Kelly’s Eco Resort in villas or similar
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks
- Included activities: K’gari adventure tour
Day 7 - Saturday: Bundaberg Free Day
Enjoy a relaxing morning in Bundaberg. Sleep in, swim in the resort pool, or play a game of tennis. After breakfast, head to Bundaberg for lunch and local exploration. In the afternoon, visit the Bundaberg Rum Centre for a distillery tour and rum tasting. Alternatively, for a full day out on the water, join the Lady Musgrave Full Day Tour, which includes snorkeling, a boat cruise, an island walk, and delicious food. In the evening, enjoy a group BBQ dinner at the resort.
- Accommodation: Kelly’s Eco Resort or similar
- Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Included activities: Distillery tour
- Meal options: Self-cater, local cafes, restaurants
- Optional paid activities: Lady Musgrave Full Day Snorkel Tour
- Free activities: Swim, play tennis, or explore Bargara Beach
Day 8 - Sunday: Bundaberg to Airlie Beach
Today is a big travel day to Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. Pack snacks, and we’ll make plenty of stops along the way to stretch our legs. Arrive in Airlie Beach in the evening.
- Accommodation: Base Airlie Beach or similar
- Meals included: Breakfast
- Meal options: Self-cater, local cafes, bakeries, restaurants
Day 9 - Monday: Airlie Beach to Whitsunday Islands
This morning, enjoy a sleep-in or stroll to the Airlie Lagoon for a dip. For a bird’s-eye view, consider an optional scenic flight over the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef, including Heart Reef, before departing on your 2-night sailing tour.
After lunch, meet your crew at Coral Sea Marina and board a 76-foot maxi sailing yacht, your home for the next two days. Watch the crew hoist the sails for an exhilarating trip through the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Once among the islands, swim or snorkel over fringing reefs and enjoy the sunset with a drink in hand on a pristine beach. In the evening, relax on deck, stargaze, and let the calm waters rock you to sleep. Adventurous? Sleep under the stars on deck. Prefer comfort? Beds await below deck.
- Accommodation: Open shared dorm-style accommodation on a maxi sailing yacht
- Meals included: Breakfast, Afternoon Snacks, Dinner & Dessert (BYO drinks)
- Included activities: Sailing, snorkeling, and exploring the Whitsunday Islands
Day 10 - Tuesday: Whitsunday Islands
This morning, wake up in paradise and enjoy breakfast on deck as you sail to Whitsunday Island, home to the world-renowned Whitehaven Beach. Take a bush walk to Hill Inlet Lookout, offering stunning panoramic views, then relax and explore Whitehaven Beach. The day includes more snorkeling, a sunset beach session, and another fun-filled evening onboard with your group and crew.
- Accommodation: Open shared dorm-style accommodation on a maxi sailing yacht
- Meals included: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Afternoon Snacks, Dinner & Dessert
- Included activities: Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet Lookout, bush walk, sailing, snorkeling
Day 11 - Wednesday: Whitsunday Islands to Magnetic Island via Airlie Beach
Spend your final morning on the yacht with a magical swim or snorkel, then sail back to Airlie Beach. From here, board the bus to Townsville, where you’ll catch the ferry to Magnetic Island, arriving in the late afternoon. Nearly 50% of ‘Maggie Island’ is national park, surrounded by breathtaking beaches and abundant wildlife. Your guide will provide tips on the best activities for the next two days.
- Accommodation: Roamer Magnetic Island or similar
- Meals included: Breakfast, Morning Tea
- Meal options: Self-cater, local cafes, restaurants
- Included activities: Sailing, snorkeling, Magnetic Island ferry
Day 12 - Thursday: Magnetic Island Free Day
Today, wake up in paradise and enjoy a full free day. Magnetic Island is home to the historic Forts Complex, which you can explore on a scenic walk with your guide, ending with incredible views of the island and ocean. Spend the rest of the day relaxing on secluded beaches, hiking through native bush, or spotting wildlife. Pro Tip: Keep your eyes on the trees—Maggie Island is one of the best places to see koalas in the wild!
- Accommodation: Roamer Magnetic Island or similar
- Meals included: Breakfast
- Meal options: Self-cater, bakery, or cafes
- Free activities: Scenic walk, beach relaxation
- Optional activities: Snorkel
Day 13 - Friday: Magnetic Island to Cairns via Atherton Tablelands
Catch the ferry back to the mainland in the morning and begin the journey to Cairns, passing through the stunning Atherton Tablelands. Stop at Millaa Millaa Falls for a swim and photos, visit Lake Eacham, a beautiful crater lake, and marvel at the heritage-listed Curtain Fig Tree. Arrive in Cairns and check into an amazing resort featuring a man-made beach. Enjoy a group dinner, then head out to experience the legendary Cairns nightlife.
- Accommodation: Gilligans Cairns or similar
- Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Meal options: Self-cater, local cafes, restaurants
- Included activities: Magnetic Island ferry, swim, waterfalls
Day 14 - Saturday: Cairns Free Day
Enjoy a completely free day in Cairns. Recover from the previous night with a lazy morning or head out for more adventure. Book a day trip to Cape Tribulation or experience the Great Barrier Reef up close with a snorkeling or diving tour.
- Accommodation: Gilligans Cairns or similar
- Meal options: Self-cater, local cafes, restaurants
- Free activities: Lounge by the resort pool, walk the Esplanade, visit the Botanical Gardens
- Optional activities: Cape Tribulation Day Trip, bungy jumping, Great Barrier Reef tour, skydiving, rafting
Day 15 - Sunday: Cairns
Today marks the final day of your Stray adventure. Say goodbye to your new friends, reflecting on the incredible memories, everything you’ve learned about Australia’s culture and wildlife, and of course, some classic Aussie slang: G’DAY MATES!
This itinerary serves as a guide, and due to the spontaneous nature of our trips and Australia’s unpredictable weather, daily activities may occasionally vary.
This morning, meet your guide and group outside the Surf House hostel at 8:50am for the 9am departure.
The Surf House
23 Lawson St,
Byron Bay
NSW 2481
Any meals that aren't included.
Many activities are included but there is a free day in Noosa and Cairns if they want to add on any additional activities e.g. a skydive, kayak, Great Barrier Reef trip.
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