from
AUD
4399
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our 28 day Sydney to Cairns adventure along Australia’s East Coast. Travel with fellow backpackers, stopping in Sydney, Byron Bay, the Gold Coast, Noosa, K’gari (Fraser Island), Airlie Beach, Magnetic Island, and Cairns!
Enjoy activities like surfing, snorkeling, hiking, and more as you explore Australia’s natural beauty. This trip offers a great mix of group experiences whilst also getting your own personal free time. Perfect for solo travelers and social backpackers—pack your sunscreen and get ready for the ultimate adventure!
Includes
- 1 Day Great Barrier Reef
- 3 Days Sailing Whitsundays
- 3 Days on Fraser Island
- 2 Day Cape Tribulation
- Half-day surf lesson
- Everglades Canoe Day Trip
- Canoe with Dolphins
- Greyhound Bus Passes
- 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
- 1 Nights in Sydney
- Available in Reverse
- Experienced & Knowledgable Guides
- Taxes & Fees
- Locally Owned Businesses
- Plant a Tree Charity
- Trip length: 28 Days
- Group size: Avg 21
- Start: Sydney
- End: Cairns
- Vehicle: Bus, Boat, 4x4, Ferry
- Sleep: Hostel, Boat, Camping
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Physical Demand:
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Comfortlevel:
Itinerary
See MapHow 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 Dinner in 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 2: Free day in Sydney
Start your day exploring Sydney’s iconic sights, from the Sydney Harbour Bridge to the Opera House and Bondi Beach. Use your free time to tick off those must-see landmarks. Later in the evening at 7pm, board the overnight Greyhound bus that will take you to your next destination: Byron Bay.
Accommodation: Overnight Bus
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: Surfing in Byron Bay
It’s time to hit the waves with a 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.
Activities: Morning Surf Lesson
Accommodation: Central Byron Bay hostel (shared dorm)
Day 5: Kayaking with Dolphins
Wake up in the stunning surroundings of Byron Bay. Today's itinerary includes a thrilling 3.5-hour dolphin kayak tour. Make your way to the designated meeting point on Lawson Street, where your experienced guide and fellow group members will be waiting for you. Embark on an amazing paddle around Cape Byron Lighthouse, spotting wild dolphins, rays, turtles, and more. After the tour, you can choose to return to your accommodation or spend a relaxing afternoon at the beach.
Activities: Kayak with Dolphins day tour
Accommodation: Byron Bay
Day 6: Travel to Surfer Paradise
Embark on a brief bus journey to the renowned city of Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast. Upon arrival, check in to your accommodation and get ready to discover Australia's equivalent of Miami. Stroll along Miami Beach and capture a memorable photo under the Surfers Paradise sign, then venture out into the vibrant nightlife alongside your newfound friends.
Accommodation: Surfers Paradise Hostel
Day 7: Free Day in Surfers Paradise
Start the day slow with a swim at sunrise or explore the endless attractions of Surfers Paradise. Whether you’re shopping, surfing, or just relaxing, today is yours to experience the Gold Coast your way.
Accommodation: Central Surfers Paradise hostel (shared dorm)
Day 8: Travel to Noosa
Start your day by checking out of your Surfers Paradise accommodation as you bid farewell to the town. Say hello to Noosa as you travel to the Sunshine Coast. Upon arrival, check in to your hostel and drop off your bags. Take some time to explore this beautiful beachside town, known for its surfing and breathtaking national parks. In the evening, attend a mandatory 6 PM safety briefing at your hostel in preparation for your upcoming Fraser Island tour.
Accommodation: Noosa Hostel
Day 9: Everglades Kayak
Begin your day with a convenient pickup for your excursion to the breathtaking Noosa Everglades. As one of only two everglades in the world, this experience promises to be truly extraordinary. Embark on a canoeing adventure through a stunning natural landscape brimming with rare animal and plant species, immersing yourself in its tranquil beauty.
Activities: 1 Day Everglades Canoeing Tour
Food: Lunch
Accommodation: Noosa Hostel
Day 10: Free Day in Noosa
Enjoy a free day in Noosa or opt for a visit to the legendary Australia Zoo, home to some of the country’s most famous wildlife. Spend the day exploring the zoo’s expansive exhibits.
Accommodation: Deluxe beachside hostel in Noosa
Optional Activities:
- Australia Zoo day pass
Day 11: Travel to Rainbow Beach
Leave Noosa and head to Rainbow Beach, the gateway to K’gari (Fraser Island). Spend the day relaxing on the beach, visiting the Carlo Sandblow for stunning views, or enjoying some downtime.
Accommodation: Rainbow Beach hostel (shared dorm)
Day 12 - 14: K’gari (Fraser Island) 4WD Adventure
Today at 7am we start our K’gari (Fraser Island) 3-day adventure.
Day 1: Depart Rainbow Beach
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 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 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 4:00 pm.
Activities: 3 Day K'gari (Fraser Island) Tour
Food: All Meals
Accommodation:
Day 12 & 13 - K'gari campsite
Day 14 - Hostel in Rainbow Beach
Day 15: 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 16: 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 17: Airlie Beach Free Day
Spend the day at the luxurious Hamilton Island if you’ve chosen the optional activity, enjoying its serene beaches and pools, or relax and explore Airlie Beach at your own pace.
Accommodation: Central Airlie Beach hostel (shared dorm)
Optional Activities:
- Hamilton Island day trip
Day 18 - 20: 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 18 & 19 - Cabin on a sailing vessel
Day 20 - Hostel in central Airlie Beach
Day 21: 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 22: 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 23: 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 24: 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 25-26: 2 Day Cape Tribulation & Daintree Tour
Day 1
Today at 7am we head off to the magnificent Cape Tribulation and Daintree Rainforest - a must for any traveller to Australia. Experience the magical culture of the ancient Rainforest that grows right down to the edge of the sea and stand in awe of the meeting of 2 UNESCO World Heritage listed sites.
Explore waterfalls, rainforest and wildlife in this spectacular area. You will be swimming in pristine waterfalls like Josephine Falls, get your hair flock photo taken at Milla Milla Falls (So nice they named it twice) and swim in an ancient crater lake called Lake Eacham surrounded by lush rainforest just to name a few..
Later that afternoon we will arrive in Yungaburra and here you will spend the night at the beautiful “On the Wallaby Eco Lodge”.
Your accommodation offers dormitory style rooms (upgrade to private rooms available) on the Atherton Tablelands. With lovely home cooked meals and after dinner we will take you on Australia’s one & only night canoeing trip.
Spot amazing wildlife and be closer to the stars on Lake Tinaroo.
Day 2
After a delicious breakfast we head towards the Daintree National Park via Granite Gorge Nature Park where you will come up close with Australian wildlife.
All your meals are included and freshly made prior to your arrival, enjoy the the croc cruise on the mighty Daintree River, rainforest walks, a swim in our private swimming hole tucked in the rainforest, beach walks and finishing the afternoon in Port Douglas.
Arrive back to your accommodation in Cairns at approximately 5pm.
Acitivites: 2 Day Cape Tribulation Tour
Food: Meals as mentioned
Accommodation: Cape Tribulation Hostel
Day 27: 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 28: 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)
