14 Days Sydney to Cairns Tour has got pretty much everything on your bucket list – Sydney Harbour, the incredible underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef, the stunning Whitehaven Beach, and some seriously cute koalas, along with a bunch of those hidden local treasures that you’d likely walk right over on your own. And to top it all off, enjoy some of the region’s best food & wine, and genuine Aussie hospitality. So, are you ready to experience the East Coast at its absolute best?
Price options
Departure Time
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*Shared Accommodation - Adult 18+ from 8,490A$
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Private Double/Twin Room - Adult / Child from 8,490A$
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Private Single Room - Adult 18+ from 10,990A$
- 14 Days / 13 Nights
- Departs: 18:00 PM - 10:00 AM
- Sydney, New South Wales
Introduction
- Takin’ it easy style – travel in a small group with a relaxed pace that’s all about comfort, without skippin’ out on the must-see sights.
- Wildlife galore – get up close & personal with kangaroos, wombats, emus, and all sorts of other Aussie favourites.
- Wine country indulgence – sample the best of the Hunter Valley‘s wines with some local cheese & handcrafted chocolate thrown in for good measure.
- Get a taste of the real Australia – meet the Traditional Custodians of the Gumbaynggirr land and hear their stories, learn the language and get a deeper understanding of the culture.
- Port Macquarie Koala Hospital – check out how these injured koalas get rescued, rehabbed, and then back out in the wild they go.
- Byron Bay, the quintessential Aussie beach – visit the famous Cape Byron Lighthouse and take in those sweeping ocean views as you go.
- K’gari (Fraser Island) 4WD adventure – get ready to explore the world’s largest sand island with an off-road vehicle.
- Whitsundays & Whitehaven Beach cruise – spend the day island-hopping, snorkelling and seeing all the sights with a bit of a guide along the way.
- Atherton Tablelands – discovering the secrets of Northern Queensland – take a swim in volcanic crater lakes, chase some waterfalls and keep an eye out for platypus.
- Great Barrier Reef Ocean Freedom cruise – snorkel the best reefs, cruise in a glass-bottom boat and learn all about the amazing marine life.
What you can actually see!
Booking
Full Itinerary
Your East Coast adventure kicks off in the iconic harbour city of Sydney, where the New South Wales coastline meets the South Pacific. After checking in and getting settled, meet up with your tour leader and fellow travellers for a welcome briefing at 6 pm – a great way to get the gang together and set the tone for the adventure ahead. Then, enjoy a good old-fashioned group dinner and get to know each other a bit better.
Included Activities:
- A get-together with your tour leader and group – all the icebreakers you could want
- A group dinner to get everyone chatting and sharing stories
Meals: Dinner to look forward to
Driving Distance: None
Where You’ll Be Staying: We’ve booked you into the Holiday Inn Potts Point or a similar place – you’ll be just a stone’s throw from the city centre
From the city, we head to a wildlife park where you’ll get to see some pretty cool native Aussie animals – think koalas, kangaroos, and emus going about their business. Next up is the renowned Hunter Valley, where we’ll set up camp for a day of wine tastings and indulging in some of the country’s best food and drink. Wrap up the day in Newcastle with a little orientation tour, and then you’ll have some time to get settled into your new digs.
Included Activities:
- A visit to the wildlife park, where you’ll meet some very special Aussie animals
- A day trip to the Hunter Valley, with plenty of wine tastings and delicious food to go around
- A quick tour of Newcastle to get your bearings and make the most of your time here
Meals: Breakfast to get you going
Driving Distance: 280 km
Walking Distance: Just a couple of short walks to get your legs moving
Where You’ll Be Staying: We’ve booked you into the Lucky Hotel Newcastle or a similar place, in the heart of the city and close to all the action
Today’s adventure begins with a trip north to Port Macquarie, where we’ll visit one of the most famous Koala Hospitals in the country. This is a real chance to learn about the vital work they do in rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing koalas back into the wild. After that, we’ve got a lovely foreshore walk lined up, with the possibility of spotting some wild dolphins playing in the waves. You’ve got the rest of the day to do as you please – relax, enjoy some of the local food, go for a swim… whatever floats your boat.
Included Activities:
- A visit to the Koala Hospital to learn about these amazing animals and the people working so hard to save them
- A scenic foreshore walk, with the chance to see dolphins up close
Meals: Breakfast to fuel you up
Driving Distance: 250 km
Walking Distance: Easy strolls and great views – there’s no huffing and puffing required
Where You’ll Be Staying: We’ve booked you into the El Paso Motor Inn or a similar place – the perfect base for exploring Port Macquarie
Today’s a big day, with a special cultural experience lined up with the Gumbaynggirr First Nations community. You’ll have the chance to learn about their stories, language, and traditions – it’s an amazing opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Australia. After that, we’re off to Byron Bay, where we’ll visit the famous Cape Byron Lighthouse – the easternmost point of mainland Australia. Take a moment to soak up the stunning views and see if you can spot any dolphins or migrating whales (if it’s the right time of year).
Included Activities:
- A chance to learn about the Gumbaynggirr First Nations culture and history
- A visit to Cape Byron Lighthouse, with its stunning views of the coastline
Meals: Breakfast to start you off
Driving Distance: 400 km
Walking Distance: Just a couple of short walks to take in the views
Where You’ll Be Staying: We’ve booked you into the Beachcomber Byron Bay or a similar place – you’ll be right on the beach
Today it’s all about doing your own thing in Byron Bay. You can spend the day relaxing on the beach, browsing the local shops, or taking part in one of the many optional activities on offer, such as surfing lessons, kayaking, whale watching (if it’s the right time of year), or just enjoying a leisurely breakfast and a long, lazy day.
Included Activities:
- A free day to use as you see fit – relax, explore, or get adventurous
Meals: None – but there are plenty of great places to grab a bite nearby
Driving Distance: None
Where You’ll Be Staying: We’ve booked you into the Beachcomber Byron Bay or a similar place, so you can just relax and enjoy yourself
Heading into the great state of Queensland, we arrive in Noosa, a laid-back coastal gem that’ll steal your heart. Take some time to explore the breathtaking Noosa National Park, where you might just catch a glimpse of a koala or two doing their thing. Afterwards, spend some time in Hastings Street and Main Beach, soaking up the laid-back atmosphere that Noosa is famous for. Later in the day, we’ll make our way to Rainbow Beach for a 2-night stay.
Included Activities:
- A visit to the magic of Noosa National Park
- A guided orientation tour of Noosa, showing you the best spots in Main Beach and Hastings Street
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Driving Distance: a fair old 420 km
Walking Distance: Easy strolls and lookout points, and of course, the odd bit of beach walking
Where You’ll Be Staying: Our base for the next two nights is going to be the Rainbow Getaway Apartments, which are similar to a home away from home
Today’s all about getting out into the wilderness of K’gari (Fraser Island), the world’s largest sand island and a real adventure playground in every sense. On our 4WD journey, we’ll be discovering all sorts of hidden treasures. From the lush rainforest tracks to the crystal-clear waters of Lake McKenzie, and of course, a visit to the iconic S.S. Maheno shipwreck. We’ll even be cruising along 75 Mile Beach, where the real chance to spot the island’s many resident wild dingoes.
Included Activities:
- A full-day guided 4WD tour of the amazing K’gari
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Driving Distance: A relatively short 200 km today
Walking Distance: Easy strolls and lookout points – about 5 km in total
Where You’ll Be Staying: We’ll be staying at the Rainbow Getaway Apartments, so no need to disrupt your routine
Time to head south to Brisbane, the relaxed and sunny capital of Queensland, where that’s all about enjoying life. We’ll have a quick orientation tour to show you the ropes, after which you’re free to explore this easy-going city at your own pace. Why not take a stroll along the picturesque Brisbane River, take a ferry ride or simply soak up the atmosphere in one of the many parks and gardens?
Included Activities:
- A whistle-stop tour of Brisbane to give you the lowdown
Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: A relatively short 240 km today
Walking Distance: Easy strolls to get you in the right mood
Where You’ll Be Staying: Our Brisbane base will be The Point Hotel Brisbane, which has all the comforts of a home away from home
We fly north today from Brisbane to the Whitsundays, which we’ll be reaching via the charming town of Airlie Beach. After checking into our accommodation, the rest of the day is all about exploring this beautiful coastal town at your own pace. You might want to take a relaxing stroll by the lagoon, wander along the esplanade or maybe even try out one of the many local cafes and bars.
Included Activities:
- A domestic flight from Brisbane to Proserpine (the gateway to the Whitsundays)
- A day of doing as you please in Airlie Beach
Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: A very short 40 km today
Where You’ll Be Staying: We’ll be staying at the Mantra Club Croc, a great place to rest your weary head
This morning, we set off on an unforgettable full-day adventure through the stunning Whitsunday Islands aboard the award-winning Thundercat vessel. One of the highlights of our trip has to be a visit to the world-famous Whitehaven Beach. We’ll be taking a guided walk to Hill Inlet Lookout for the most fantastic views of the beach and its surrounding waters. After which, we’ll be snorkelling in the pristine waters of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, surrounded by the most incredible coral and marine life. After a day that’s been full of adventure and beauty, we’ll be returning to Airlie Beach in the afternoon, with time to unwind or try out some of the local cuisine.
Included Activities:
- A full-day Whitsundays cruise with snorkelling – get ready to be amazed!
- A visit to the breathtaking Whitehaven Beach, with a guided walk to Hill Inlet Lookout
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Travel Distance: About an 8-hour boat journey (46 km)
Walking Distance: Some short guided walks (just about 2 km total)
Where You’ll Be Staying: We’ll still be staying at the Mantra Club Croc, so you can get right back into the swing of things.
Head north on the famous Bruce Highway and pass through some of the most picturesque sugarcane country you’ve ever seen. Before long, you’ll find yourself at the stunning Mission Beach, where the day is yours to unwind. Take a dip in the pool, or simply take a leisurely stroll along the beach – the choice is yours. Keep an eye out for wildlife, particularly the elusive cassowary, which is said to roam these rainforests. Its a great place to take a deep breath and soak up the beauty of North Queensland.
Included Activities:
- Take a drive along the coast via the Bruce Highway
Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: a decent 505km
Walking Distance: easy strolls and some great lookouts
Where You’ll Be Staying: at the lovely Mission Beach Resort
After a leisurely breakfast, drive inland to the beautiful Wet Tropics and explore the Atherton Tablelands. Take a look at a stunning waterfall hidden deep in the rainforest and go for a refreshing swim if you like. Next up is Lake Eacham, a crystal-clear crater lake that’s sure to take your breath away. Be sure to check out the Curtain Fig Tree while you’re in the area. Finally, you’ll arrive in Cairns, a vibrant town with a real tropical vibe and a rich cultural scene to boot.
Included Activities:
- Explore the Atherton Tablelands with its waterfalls, rainforests and wonderful wildlife spotting
Meals: Breakfast only
Driving Distance: a relatively short 220 km
Where You’ll Be Staying: at the Flynn Hotel Cairns, or similar
Today is all about the Great Barrier Reef, widely regarded as one of the world’s most amazing natural wonders.
Included Activities:
- A full day on the Great Barrier Reef with snorkelling and glass-bottom boat trips
- Scuba diving for those who are game
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Travel Time: a decent 6.5 hours on the boat
Where You’ll Be Staying: still at the Flynn Hotel in Cairns
After one last breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to your guide and the other members of your group as you head off on your next adventure or continue on your travels.
Meals: Breakfast
- 13 nights in boutique-style accommodation (private or shared rooms with en-suite bathrooms)
- 12 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 1 big group dinner to all enjoy together
- We’ve even got the entry fees to all the National Parks, so you can just focus on the scenery
- Get ready to taste some of the best wine, cheese and chocolate the Hunter Valley has to offer
- Go on a genuine First Nations cultural experience, and get up close and personal with some amazing wildlife at a wildlife park and your native animal encounters
- Cruise around K’gari (Fraser Island) in a 4WD, and join a small group to explore the Whitsundays with a full day cruise and all the snorkelling gear you need
- We’ll also be taking you to the Great Barrier Reef for a day of snorkelling and a peek at the reef through a glass-bottom boat
- And with all the guided coastal and nature walks (we’re talking 17 km total), you’ll get to see some truly amazing sights
- You’ll have an experienced driver-guide with local knowledge to take care of you, and all the transport – small groups, transfers, domestic flights, and boat journeys – are sorted
- The tour starts in Sydney and finishes in Cairns
- Any meals that aren’t listed in the itinerary (we’ve got the food you need, but you’re on your own for the rest!)
- Transfers to and from where the tour starts and ends (we can help with those if you need)
- If you’re keen on some extra activities like surfing, kayaking or scuba diving, that’s all on you (it’s easy to book at the time)
- You’ll need to book your own pre-tour and post-tour accommodation (we can help if you need some recommendations, though)
- Don’t forget to get travel insurance (we really do strongly recommend it)
- And any personal expenses or incidentals you might run up along the way (just be aware that your credit card might get a workout!)
- International flights are up to you to organise
- A refillable water bottle (at least 1L) – your guide will remind you about staying hydrated throughout the trip
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat: we want you to get home with a healthy tan (instead of a lobster one!)
- A good quality beach towel and all your personal toiletries
- The usual beach gear: swimwear, flip-flops
- Good comfy walking shoes for all the great coastal and nature walks we’ll be doing (get something waterproof if you have to!)
- Pack light for the warmer days, but also bring a few decent layers for the cooler evenings
- A small overnight bag (max 20kg) and a small daypack (about 5kg) so you can carry the essentials
- Any medication you might need, and let us know about any medical conditions at the time of booking
- A torch or flashlight, just in case (but don’t worry too much about it)
- Insect repellent and a camera, because you won’t want to miss a single shot!
- Some cash for snacks and any additional meals you might want to pick up
- And above all, your sense of adventure (we know you’ve got one!)
The weather along Australia’s East Coast is a bit of a mixed bag; it depends on where you are and when you’re visiting. In the summer months, it can get scorching hot in many areas, we’re talking high 30s and sometimes even higher, but things calm down in the winter, which is always a relief, especially up north. Don’t be surprised if you get caught in some showery weather right by the coast, either – things can change quickly there. One thing to bear in mind is that it’s always a good idea to have a rough idea of what the local weather’s like when you arrive, so chuck a look at the seasonal averages before you go and pack some essentials like sun protection, a few lightweight layers and some rain gear just in case. Provided nothing too unusual comes up, most tours will still run, unless the operator tells you otherwise, of course.
The Important Stuff You Need to Know
Booking Details:
We need all passenger information right from the start when you book, that’s date of birth, phone number, passport details, dietary needs, and rooming preferences (ie, what title/gender you go by).
Diet
We do our best to cater for most dietary needs, but all requirements and allergies have to be mentioned at the time of booking.
Pre-existing Conditions:
If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, please let us know at the time of booking, as this tour isn’t as low-key as you might think and does involve some light physical activity.
Fitness Level:
You don’t have to be an olympian but you should be comfortable strolling and not need a hand getting around. If you’re 70+, you’ll need a doctor’s note within 30 days of your trip to confirm you’re good to go.
Age Rules:
If you’re under 17, you’ll need to be with a grown-up, and we don’t really recommend the tour for anyone under 12. Sorry.
Travelling Solo:
If you’re booking a twin room by yourself, we’ll pair you with someone else who’s travelling on their own, and we try to match you with someone of the same gender.
Accommodation Options:
We have a few different rooms you can choose from:
- Shared Room: Just adults (18+), you’ll be in a room with shared bathroom facilities.
- Private Double/Twin Room: Ideal for 2 of you to share a private bathroom and the room.
- Private Single Room: This one is just for adults (18+); you get the whole room to yourself with a private bathroom.
Limited Mobility:
This tour isn’t for anyone with mobility issues who needs a walking aid or a wheelchair.
Luggage:
We’ve got limited storage space, so each of you can bring one main bag (20kg max) and one smaller daypack (5kg max). If you’ve got any extra or bigger bags, you need to let us know in advance.
Itinerary Flexibility:
The itinerary might change due to weather, park closures, or other safety concerns, but safety will always come first, and we’re committed to giving you the best experience we can.
Booking Reconfirmation:
We need you to reconfirm your booking with us within 7 days of your departure date, via phone or email, so we can make sure everything is in order.
Private Tours:
If you’re looking to book a private tour, just let us know, and we can arrange something for you.
Safe Travel Measures
When you’re visiting Australia, you should always make sure you’re following all the relevant rules and regulations, which means checking what’s required for visitors like you, whether that’s vaccinations, testing, or just making sure you have the right bits of paper to get in. If things change while you’re there, it’s also a good idea to keep an eye on what’s needed. One other bit of advice we’d give is to take a few rapid antigen tests with you, just in case.
If things take a turn for the worse while you’re on tour and you end up getting ill, be aware that any costs that come out of that, like getting you to a different location or getting you off the tour early, will be down to you to pay. And it’s worth noting here that we don’t give refunds in cases like that, but you should be able to make a claim through your travel insurance if it all gets too much.
FAQ
Is this a small group tour?
Yes, it is. This is a small group experience designed to give you a more relaxed feel, with all the benefits of a smaller traveller group – better service, more time to ask questions & a chance to really get to grips with the places we visit.
What kind of accommodation can I expect?
You’ll be staying in some really nice places, including boutique hotels, resorts and apartments – all with private or shared en-suite options, carefully chosen for comfort and location.
Are meals included on the tour?
You’ll get 12 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 1 group dinner, but for the rest, you’re free to try out all the local eateries you come across, with the flexibility to choose what you want to do and when.
Do I need to be super fit for this tour?
No way – this one is pretty easy going. You’ll just need to be okay with some short walks, maybe a short hike or two, and some optional extras along the way.
What sort of wildlife can I look forward to seeing?
You might catch a glimpse of knee-high kangaroos, koalas lazing about, emus wandering around & dolphins playing in the waves – and if you’re lucky, cassowaries, tropical fish & even a koala or two.
Is snorkelling included on the reef & Whitsundays trips?
Yup, snorkelling equipment is provided for both those experiences, and if you fancy diving too, you can do that at a bit of an extra cost.
Can I come as a solo traveller?
No worries at all. Loads of people come on this trip on their own – it’s just as popular with couples & groups of mates.
Are flights included in the tour?
A domestic flight from Brisbane to the Whitsundays is included, but your international flights are not part of the deal.
Is travel insurance a must?
Not included, but we really can’t stress enough how important it is to get some.
When's the best time to do this trip?
We run this tour all year round, but the best time to do it is usually from April to October, when the weather’s nice, and the wildlife’s out in full swing.