23 Days Sydney to Cairns Budget

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From the Sydney Harbour Bridge to the rainforests of Cairns, the 28-Day Explorer Itinerary lets you experience Australia’s East Coast at a relaxed pace. Discover stunning natural sites like the Great Barrier Reef, Great Dividing Range, and Whitsunday Islands, paired with local and unique adventures.

Catch waves in Byron Bay, make friends in Gold Coast, swim in Noosa’s fairy pools, cuddle a koala on Magnetic Island, dance the night away in Brisbane, 4WD along K’gari’s shores, and sail into the sunset in the Whitsundays. With free time and award-winning tours, explore Australia’s best spots like a true adventurer!

Includes

3 Days Sailing Whitsundays
3 Days Fraser Island
1 Day Great Barrier Reef
2 Days Magnetic Island
2 hour Noosa kayak rental
Half-day Byron Bay surf lesson

1 night in Sydney
3 nights in Byron Bay
2 nights in Surfers Paradise
3 nights in Noosa
2 nights in Rainbow Beach
3 nights in Airlie Beach
2 nights on Magnetic Island
5 nights in Cairns

Greyhound Bus Passes
Experienced & Knowledgable Guides
Meals during your tours
Taxes & Fees

Trip length: 28 Days
Group size: Avg 21
Start: Sydney
End: Cairns

Vehicle: Bus, Boat, 4x4, Ferry
Sleep: Hostel, Boat, Camping
Physical Demand:
Comfortlevel:

Highlights

Meet your guide

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Pictures / Videos

Itinerary

See Map

How it works:

Our incredible east coast packages are made up of a combination of various tours, accommodation and bus routes. You'll be travelling independently between each town using our amazing greyhound bus network that we'll book and organise for you.

We plan out your entire trip to help you save money and time and take away the fuss of making sure everything fits together seamlessly.

We'll be staying in some of Australia's best hostels and exploring iconic destinations such as Fraser Island, Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef with amazing guides and other likeminded travellers. No time is wasted and every dollar goes towards maximising your experience!

Day 1: Welcome to Sydney

Arrive in Sydney at your convenience and check into your hostel, gearing up for an incredible 28-day journey along Australia’s East Coast!

Accommodation: Central Sydney Hostel (shared dorm)

Day 3: Travel Byron Bay

Arrive into Byron at 8am, check into your hostel and enjoy a full day to soak up the bohemian charm of Byron Bay. Whether it’s relaxing on the beach, exploring the town, or venturing to the Byron Cape Lighthouse, today is yours to discover Byron at your own pace.

Accommodation: Central Byron Bay hostel (shared dorm)

Day 4: Free Day in Byron Bay

It’s time to hit the waves with an optional morning surfing lesson on Byron’s renowned beaches! Whether you’re a beginner or more experienced, an instructor will guide you through the basics or help refine your skills. In the afternoon, unwind with a cold beer and live music with your new travel companions.

Optional Activities: Morning Surf Lesson

Accommodation: Central Byron Bay hostel (shared dorm)

Day 5: Travel to Gold Coast

Head to the Gold Coast, famous for its beaches, nightlife, and attractions. Spend time relaxing by the beach, surfing, or enjoying the nightlife in Surfers Paradise.

Accommodation: Hostel in Gold Coast

Day 5: Travel to Noosa

Spend another day exploring and enjoying the beautiful Gold Coast. This afternoon board a bus and head to Noosa and check into your accommodation there.

Accommodation: Hostel in Noosa

Day 7-9: 3 Days Fraser Island Adventure

Today at 7am we start our K’gari (Fraser Island) 3-day adventure.

Day 1: Depart Noosa
Once you have arrived on the world's largest sand island, drive for 1 hour to the Eurong Beach Resort along 75 Mile Beach - K'gari's (Fraser Island) own highway with speed limits! There, you can grab a coffee and chocolate croissant (at your 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 K'gari (Fraser Island). We stop for lunch and time to swim and relax in the amazingly clear lake waters before driving up the beach to your campsite around 3:00 pm. Settle in for an early dinner, well-deserved drinks and plenty of fun!

Day 2: K'gari (Fraser Island)
The day begins with a quick breakfast to fuel your busiest day on K'gari (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 K'gari (Fraser Island) icon before continuing on past Indian Head to the stunning Champagne Pools for a dip. 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 3: Return to Noosa
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 your Hostel between 3:00 pm and 4:00 pm.

Activities: 3 Day K'gari (Fraser Island) Tour

Food: All Meals

Accommodation:
Day 7 & 8 - K'gari campsite
Day 9 - Hostel in Noosa

Day 10: Travel to Rainbow Beach

Make your way to Rainbow Beach for the next 2 days, a peaceful town on the coast. Unwind on the beach or take part in a dolphin kayak tour and enjoy the surrounding beauty.

Accommodation: 2 nights in Hostel in Rainbow Beach

Optional Activities:

Dolphin kayak tour

Day 11: Travel to Airlie Beach

Prepare for an exciting journey to Airlie Beach as you board the overnight bus at 4pm. Before embarking on your adventure, take advantage of the day to freely explore the area and check out of your hostel, ensuring everything is ready for your departure to Airlie Beach.

Accommodation: Overnight bus from Rainbow Beach to Airlie Beach

Day 12: Airlie Beach Free Day

Take the day to explore Airlie Beach or opt for a scenic flight over the breathtaking Whitsundays, where you'll get a bird's-eye view of its stunning islands and turquoise waters.

Accommodation: Central Airlie Beach hostel (shared dorm)

Optional Activities:

Whitsundays scenic flight

Day 13 - 15: 3 Days Whitsunday Islands Sailing Adventure

Day 1
Embark on a sailing adventure to one of the Whitsundays' most picturesque islands. Dive into the crystal-clear waters and discover the wonders of snorkeling and scuba diving. As you sail to your first sleeping location in the protected waters of Whitsunday Island, unwind on the deck with a refreshing beer or wine and savor a freshly cooked dinner sourced locally.

Day 2
Rise and shine to a freshly cooked breakfast. Today's activities will depend on the weather and tides. You can look forward to two additional snorkeling sessions at different beautiful locations around the islands, or opt for a quick 10-minute bush walk to Hill Inlet lookout. Capture the breathtaking view and take a leisurely stroll to the world-famous Whitehaven Beach. Indulge in a fully catered lunch and dinner during the day.

Day 3
Beach Wake up early once again to enjoy breakfast and make the most of your final day in the Whitsundays. Spend more time exploring the beaches and snorkeling spots before heading back to Airlie Beach in the late afternoon. You'll have another night's stay at Nomads and can look forward to an epic after-party with your newfound friends.

Activities: 3 Day Whitsunday Island Sailing Tour

Food: All Meals

Accommodation: Day 13 & 15 - Cabin on a sailing vessel
Day 16 - Hostel in central Airlie Beach

Day 17: Magnetic Island

At 10am travel to Townsville, arriving at 2:30pm and catch a ferry to the picturesque Magnetic Island. Check in at one of the delightful beachside resorts for an incredible two-night stay. Unwind and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the island's iconic beaches while sipping on a complimentary glass of champagne.

Accommodation: Beachfront hostel on Magnetic Island (shared dorm)

Day 18: Free Day on Magnetic Island

Continue exploring Magnetic Island’s diverse landscapes with options for water sports, snorkeling, or relaxing on the beach.

Accommodation: Beachfront hostel on Magnetic Island (shared dorm)

Day 19: Travel to Cairns

This morning at 8am, board the Greyhound bus to Cairns, a tropical city in northern Queensland. Arriving at 1:30pm, check into your centrally located accommodation and spend the rest of the day and evening immersing yourself in the local culture and vibrant nightlife. Make sure to get a good night's sleep for your upcoming Great Barrier Reef trip.

Accommodation: Cairns Hostel

Day 20: Great Barrier Reef Snorkel & Scuba Tour

Starting at 7am, today we dive into the world-famous Great Barrier Reef for a full day of snorkeling or an introductory scuba dive. Marvel at the vibrant marine life and colorful coral gardens as you explore one of the natural wonders of the world. All equipment and lunch are provided, ensuring you have a smooth, worry-free adventure.

Activities: 1 Day Great Barrier Reef Tour

Food: Lunch

Accommodation: Hostel in central Cairns

Day 21: Free Day in Cairns

For thrill-seekers, a skydive over Cairns is available. In the evening, gather with newly made friends for a farewell dinner to reminisce about your epic journey along the East Coast.

Accommodation: Central hostel in Cairns (shared dorm)

Optional Activities:

15,000ft skydive

Day 22: Free Day in Cairns

Another free day in Cairns. We suggest taking the opportunity to head further up the coast and explore cape tribulation. You can do this with a car or jump onboard a 1 day tour.

Accommodation: Central hostel in Cairns (shared dorm)

Optional Activities:

1 Day Cape Tribulation Tour

Day 23: Final Day in Cairns

Check out of your accommodation and say goodbye to your fellow travelers. If you need help with onward travel plans, local agents are available to assist you with any additional bookings.

Accommodation: None (check-out day)

See Map

what to bring

Packing List

Backpack (40-60L)
Swimwear
Reusable water bottle
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Flip-flops and hiking shoes
Quick-dry towel
Rain jacket
Power bank
Travel adapter (Australian plug)
Insect repellent
Snorkel gear (optional)
Hat and sunglasses
Basic first aid kit
Comfortable daywear
Evening attire for nightlife

What is included

Accommodation

1 night in Sydney
3 nights in Byron Bay
2 nights in Surfers Paradise
3 nights in Noosa
2 nights in Rainbow Beach
3 nights in Airlie Beach
2 nights on Magnetic Island
5 nights in Cairns

Activities

Great Barrier Reef tour including 1 introductory dive
Return ferry to Magnetic Island from Townsville
2 day, 2-night Whitsundays social sailing adventure
3 day, 2-night K'gari tag-along camping safari
Half-day Byron Bay surf lesson

Transport & Extras

All Greyhound Bus Passes from Sydney to Cairns
Luggage storage in Airlie Beach

Meals

Meals during your tours

Total Accommodation

27 nights of accommodation (hostels, overnight buses, sailing cabins, and island camping)

Trip Info

Preparing for the trip

Where can I get more information about this trip?

If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have. 

What should I pack?

Depending on where in Australia or New Zealand you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.

What immunisations do I need?

For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.

Do I need to take any medical supplies?

It is not necessary to bring any medical supplies other than any personal items you may require. Each tour will carry an first aid box and our guides are all certified in First Aid.

How much luggage can I bring along the East Coast?

You can bring is much as luggage as you like. However, during each tour on the east coast, whether its a 2 day Fraser tour or a 3 Day Whitsunday tour, there will be luggage restrictions - generally to around 10-15kg per person. In these scenarios, you'll be able to leave the bulk of your luggage at your hostel/hotel whilst you're on tour.

Where can I store my luggage whilst on tour?

During the tour your main luggage will be stored in our trailer. This trailer is always locked however we cannot guarantee the complete safety of your gear from theft or damage. This is why it is so important to purchase a good travel insurance. If you need to store your luggage whilst away on tour, this can be done through your accommodation. Most hostel and hotels will store your luggage safely free of charge.

Where can I do laundry?

Each hostel and hotel we book you into will have laundry facilities you can use.

Do I need travel insurance?

Insurance is important in protecting visitors from loss or damange of goods, medical problems, cancelation by passengers or other casualties. Its highly recommended. Some tours on this website require you to have travel insurance. If you are Australian then it is not necessary.

How do these packages work?

We are essentially creating a travel plan for you. We'll book all your accommodation, transport between towns, tours and other activites for you to do. You just need to show up with your tickets and off you go! All towns are connected together using the greyhound network which will alllow you to move along the east coast freely and timely stopping and starting where you want. 

Private tours and families

Is it possible to travel in a private group?

If your looking for a private tour based of one of our trips please contact us directly and we may be able to help. Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip.

Booking the trip

Do I have to book this tour online?

Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.

If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?

Absolutely! If you are booking multiple tours then we may be able to offer you a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.

Does the tour price include flights?

No. Tour prices do not include any travel arrangements other than for the duration of the tour itself. If you need assistance with booking flights or buses our travel team and certainly help - Just ask!

How far in advance do I need to book my tour?

As a rule of thumb we generally say AT LEAST 2 weeks prior to departure, this will usually get you a seat on the date you want. That being said, we cannot guarantee that spaces will be available at the time of your booking so, if you can, book as soon as possible. Bookings can still be made right up until the departure date of the tour if seats are available. If you know when you'd like to travel, please contact us and we will let you know if you need to book soon or if you have time.

How do I know what date this package is available?

Since these packages are made up of a wide variety of different hotels, tours and transport we need to check that all these things are available one after another from the starting date you need. Although our calendar says that you can go any day you like, please contact us directly so that we can piece it all together for you and reconfirm that everything is ok.

Who travels with us

Is this tour for me?

Our tours are made up of small groups with a range of different ages, nationalities and backgrounds. Generally people who travel with us are between 20 and 49, though we also get alot passengers much older onboard - everyone is welcome! On tour we get equally as many males as females and everyone shares an enthusiasm for the out doors, nature, adventure and culture. Our tours are for those wanting to really explore and share the experience with likeminded travellers. Whether we are camping by a billabong in Kakadu National Park or sharing a cabin in Tasmania, our travellers want more than just a site seeing tour. They are chasing a hands on group experience. The trips are packed with many highlights and the pace can be fast. There may be some long drives and passengers should expect to help out when setting up camp or cooking food - this is a group adventure. However, there’s always time to chill out, have a cold beer ( or wine! ) and soak up your surroundings. As always, if in doubt then contact us directly with your concerns.

Cost and Fees

Are there any additional costs?

Whilst you are on the various tours we book for you, you do not need to pay anything extra. All food, accommodation, transport and equipmenet will be provided for you. When you are not on a tour, the only additional costs you need prepare for is food and drink. Accommodation and transport along the east coast will be covered for.

Do I need to tip our guide?

If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip the guide, then that is completely up to you. However, tipping is not customary and is not at all expected.

Whilst on tour

Where do we stay during our journey?

During our tours we stay in a wide variety of different styles of accommodation. All accommodation are run my friendly and hospitable locals who's job it is to make sure you enjoy your stay. Acommodation varies between hostels, hotels, camping to sleeping on boats! So please check your itinerary for exact details.For those who'd like more privacy, we may be able to upgrade to twin or double rooms with private facilities. Just ask!

Can you cater of special diets?

We can certain cater for most dietary needs. Please advise us at the time of your booking so arrangements can be made. For travellers with more extreme diets we may ask that you bring along additional snacks.

Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?

We know our country inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations. Please contact us for recommendations.

What vehicle will we use to explore?

We will be using everything from trains to boats, to buses and in some cases, even a horse! For more specific information on what transportation you'll be on please refer back to your itinerary. Whatever it is though, it will be lots of fun.

What is the weather like on the east coast?

The east coast of Australia is an extremely long piece of coastline and it traverses very different weather patterns, from the temperate south in Sydney to the tropical north in Cairns. Irrespective of the season, In summer, if you are travelling between Sydney and Cairns, you are probably going to either experience wetter more humid weather nearer Cairns. In winter months, clear and dry conditions near cairns and cooler and wetter weather nearer Sydney.

Will I travel with the same people the whole time?

No. This itinerary is made up of various different tours and accommodation. You may run into the same people as you travel along the east coast, however, each tour will have new people who will likely be moving to different cities and destinations after their trip.

How do I travel between destinations?

All destinations such as Noosa Head, Cairns, Airlie Beach, Brisbane etc are connected together using the greyhound bus network. We'll book all your passes for you and provide you with the meeting locations and times. These will be in coordination with your tours and accommodation so that its easy for you to meet each bus to get to your next destination.

What happens if I miss the bus?

If you miss your bus please contact us immediately via phone or email. We'll need to try and push back your other tours and accommodation that we can not gaurantee that this is possible. In most cases, if you miss your bus you may end up missing out on the next tour that we planned for you. 

Reviews

“A great adventure”

Travelled 4th August 2025

(5/5)

If you’re thinking about doing it — just book it. You won’t regret it. Made heaps of good memories and mates. 100% would do another one of these trips.

- Kelly

“very special”

Travelled 19th April 2025

(5/5)

make great friends who make the whole experience even more special

- Susanne

“High recommend ”

Travelled 24th November 2024

(5/5)

We loved travelling along the East Coast! The team was so helpful in picking dates and making everything simple. The tours were amazing, the groups were fun, and the hostels were very clean. Even the buses were okay with a good book. I have told my friends to try this trip too!

- Maria

“Well Organised”

Travelled 24th November 2024

(5/5)

Lost In Australia organise very good trip for us. The itinerary was full of fun activities, and I enjoy every part.

- Nguyen Thao

“Fantastic”

Travelled 24th November 2024

(5/5)

Everything was planned so well by the Lost In Australia team. The schedule was busy but exciting, and the places we stayed were very nice and comfortable.

- Jorge Martinez

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How it works:

Day 1: Welcome to Sydney

Day 3: Travel Byron Bay

Day 4: Free Day in Byron Bay

Day 5: Travel to Gold Coast

Day 5: Travel to Noosa

Day 7-9: 3 Days Fraser Island Adventure

Day 10: Travel to Rainbow Beach

Day 11: Travel to Airlie Beach

Day 12: Airlie Beach Free Day

Day 13 - 15: 3 Days Whitsunday Islands Sailing Adventure

Day 17: Magnetic Island

Day 18: Free Day on Magnetic Island

Day 19: Travel to Cairns

Day 20: Great Barrier Reef Snorkel & Scuba Tour

Day 21: Free Day in Cairns

Day 22: Free Day in Cairns

Day 23: Final Day in Cairns

Packing List

Accommodation

Activities

Transport & Extras

Meals

Total Accommodation

Preparing for the trip

Where can I get more information about this trip?

What should I pack?

What immunisations do I need?

Do I need to take any medical supplies?

How much luggage can I bring along the East Coast?

Where can I store my luggage whilst on tour?

Where can I do laundry?

Do I need travel insurance?

How do these packages work?

Private tours and families

Is it possible to travel in a private group?

Booking the trip

Do I have to book this tour online?

If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?

Does the tour price include flights?

How far in advance do I need to book my tour?

How do I know what date this package is available?

Who travels with us

Is this tour for me?

Cost and Fees

Are there any additional costs?

Do I need to tip our guide?

Whilst on tour

Where do we stay during our journey?

Can you cater of special diets?

Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?

What vehicle will we use to explore?

What is the weather like on the east coast?

Will I travel with the same people the whole time?

How do I travel between destinations?

What happens if I miss the bus?

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