22-day Australia east coast adventure

Brisbane

Day 1: Welcome to Australia!

Upon your arrival, a transfer will be waiting to drive you to your accommodation. Today is at leisure to enjoy however you wish - if your jet lag allows for it, head out to explore Brisbane! At the top of your list should be a walk along the Brisbane River which winds through the central city, a visit to the lovely City Botanic Gardens, and a swim at Streets Beach in South Bank Parklands.

Brisbane

Day 2: An urban adventure in Brisbane

Delve into the heart of Brisbane, home to a vibrant blend of old-world charm and modern marvels. Shop at Queen Street Mall, explore the Treasury Building, and marvel at City Hall; for a unique perspective, ascend the latter's clock tower.

Afterwards, venture to Fortitude Valley, famous for its cafes, boutiques, and live music. Enjoy a meal at King Arthur Café, then shop at James Street's 130 or so speciality stores. Don't miss the Valley Laneway Markets on Saturdays.

In the late afternoon, hop on a free ferry to South Bank and relax at Streets Beach, Australia's inner-city man-made oasis. Althernatively, dive into culture at QPAC and Queensland Art Gallery, before ending your day with a ride on the Wheel of Brisbane.

Brisbane - Noosa

Day 3: Delights of the Sunshine Coast

Get ready for a sun-soaked adventure! Pick up your rental car and hit the road to the Sunshine Coast.

First stop: Coolum Beach – a tranquil paradise for a refreshing swim and lunch at the Surf Club. The resort area of Noosa awaits next, known for its National Park and chic Hastings Street brimming with exquisite dining, lively bars, and stylish boutiques.

Beyond the coast, discover the hinterland's allure via the Glass House Mountains and Blackall Range. The towns of Montville and Maleny also offer breathtaking views back on the Sunshine Coast.

Noosa

Day 4: Everglades escapade

Dive into the unique Noosa Everglades, a natural wonder known as the River of Mirrors. These pristine waters stretch 60km, offering breathtaking reflections, rich biodiversity, and narrow waterways. They're a photographer's paradise and haven for nature enthusiasts. Easily accessible just 40 minutes from Noosa Heads, this hidden gem can take as little as a half-day to explore.

In the afternnon, explore Noosa National Park and wander along the scenic coastal walk that provides excellent photo opportunities, beautiful nature, and the chance to see wild koalas.

Noosa - Hervey Bay - Fraser Island

Day 5: Fraser Island escape

When you're ready, hit the road heading north. From Noosa, it's about a two-hour drive to Hervey Bay. Catch a ferry at River Heads to Fraser Island, the world's largest sand island. Known as K’gari (meaning paradise) by its traditional owners, the Butchulla people, this island is truly beautiful. Once you've checked into your accommodation, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure on this island paradise.

Fraser Island

Day 6: A day of scenic island exploration

Today, join an adventure-packed itinerary exploring Fraser Island. Dive into the crystal-clear Lake McKenzie, wander through ancient subtropical rainforests, and admire the rusted S. S. Maheno shipwreck site. Journey along the 75 Mile Beach sand highway, the world's largest of its kind. An expert guide will lead the way, sharing the island's rich history and introducing you to its unique wildlife, as you immerse yourself in this World Heritage-listed paradise.

Fraser Island - Hervey Bay - Town Of 1770

Day 7: Surf, sunsets & serenity

After a ferry ride back to the mainland from Fraser Island, take some time to explore more of Queensland's treasures; choose a direct route with coffee stops in Childers, Gin Gin or Miriam Vale, or detour via Bundaberg, renowned for its rum.

Discover the towns of Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy, where surf vibes meet authentic, laid-back charm. Agnes Water's Main Beach is Australia's hidden gem, known for its family-friendly shores; Seventeen Seventy, named after Captain Cook's landing year, offers a cool bohemian vibe and a starting point for exploring the Great Barrier Reef. You'll find no traffic lights or fast-food chains here - just beautiful beaches, cycling paths and boardwalks, including the Paperbark Forest Boardwalk and incredible 1770 Butterfly Walk. Come evening, enjoy a serene sunset over the ocean.

Town Of 1770

Day 8: Amphibious afternoon cruising

Today, join LARC! on an unfogettable afternoon cruise. Not only does LARC! offer the perfect introduction to the area, it is also the first amphibious tour operator in Australia. The cruise crosses Round Hill Creek, makes its way along the edge of Eurimbula National Park up to Eurimbula Creek, then turns around and returns to explore the 1770 Sandbar. This one-hour joyride is fun for everyone, with an entertaining running commentary, breathtaking scenery, amazing wildlife, and an exciting finale.

Town Of 1770 - Yeppoon

Day 9: Beef, beaches & beyond

Continue your drive today, stopping off in Gladstone en-route to Rockhampton, fondly nicknamed 'Rocky.' Here, the spirit of Australia's Beef Capital awaits. With over 2.5 million cattle nearby, it's certainly a city that lives up to its title. Explore heritage-filled streets and dive into premium dining along the Fitzroy River, to enjoy the best steaks, seafood and cocktails - culinary paradise is definitely on the menu.

Next up is the town of Yeppoon, just 38km from Rockhampton, and your gateway to Great Keppel Island and the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Stroll the esplanade here to encounter beach-chic boutiques and vibrant street art murals.

Yeppoon - Airlie Beach

Day 10: Journey to the Whitsunday Coast

Leaving Yeppoon, don't miss a pit stop at Flaggy Rock for ice cream and coffee to fuel your journey. Continue north to Mackay, a laid-back town with Cape Hillsborough National Park nearby. Keep an eye out for wild wallabies and kangaroos that call this place home.

In the afternoon, you'll reach Airlie Beach, a coastal gem on the Whitsunday Coast. From here you'll be perfectly placed to explore the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef - although, do take some time to enjoy here, as Airlie Beach itself is a destination worth savouring. Bask in year-round tropical weather, relax on palm-fringed beaches, enjoy waterfront parks, dine at al fresco restaurants, and explore vibrant markets at your leisure.

Airlie Beach - Whitsunday Islands - Airlie Beach

Day 11: Whitsunday island wonders

Embark on a thrilling adventure to uncover the wonders of the Whitsunday Islands. Begin with a scenic flight over the 74 islands, capturing the beauty of Whitehaven Beach and Heart Reef. Enjoy the pilot's insights as you marvel at the views from a fixed-wing aircraft with big windows.

Next you'll dive into the wild side of the Whitsunday Islands with a guided walk and a snorkel through its pristine reefs. Special permits provide access to protected areas in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, ensuring an ultimate adventure. For an afternoon to remember, spend two hours at Hill Inlet beach and explore more snorkelling sites at Hook and Border Islands.

Airlie Beach - Townsville - Magnetic Island

Day 12: Tropical bliss on Magnetic Island

Drive north from Airlie Beach to Bowen, home of the Big Mango and hidden gems like Horseshoe Bay. Drive on through sugar cane fields to vibrant Townsville, to catch a 40-minute ferry ride to Nelly Bay on Magnetic Island. This island is a tropical paradise in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, featuring palm-fringed beaches, scenic hikes, friendly koalas, and stunning snorkelling spots.

You can take your rental car on the ferry to explore at your pace. Witness the mesmerising sunset at Geoffrey Bay, where native rock wallabies make a daily appearance, providing a unique wildlife experience.

Magnetic Island

Day 13: Enjoy a wildlife-rich walk

Start today by tackling Magnetic Island National Park's renowned Forts Walk. This track leads to captivating WWII fortifications, offering panoramic 360-degree vistas and potentially wild koala-spotting along the way.

After your walk, relax on a serene beach, perfect for sunbathing and snorkelling. Magnetic Island features two self-guided snorkel trails showcasing vibrant coral, fish, and intriguing relics like a WWII aircraft propeller and the S.S. Moltke wreck. For water sports enthusiasts, Horseshoe Bay is your playground, offering kayaking, diving, jet-skiing, and offshore fishing. Alternatively, if you seek tranquillity, visit the long sandy beaches of Geoffrey, Arthur, Florence, Radical, and Balding Bays.

Magnetic Island - Townsville - Mission Beach

Day 14: Waterfalls, beaches & island adventures

Head north today on the Bruce Highway for an hour to reach the Mount Spec section of Paluma Range National Park. Hike to McClellands Lookout for beautiful views before cooling off at Little Crystal Creek.

Drive 45 minutes to Ingham, a charming sugar cane town with Mediterranean influences from Italian and Spanish migrants. After lunch, head to Wallaman Falls, Australia's tallest single-drop waterfall.

Continue your adventure with a stop in Cardwell to explore the famous Cardwell Spa Pool, a serene natural swimming hole. In the afternoon, reach Mission Beach, a tranquil slice of tropical North Queensland coast and the closest mainland point to the Great Barrier Reef. Here, escape traffic lights, chain stores and crowds; enjoy the stunning beaches, or opt for an adventure to Dunk Island, a natural paradise with beautiful trails and palm-fringed beaches.

Mission Beach

Day 15: Adventure awaits

Get ready for a thrilling day in the town of Mission Beach. Explore Clump Mountain National Park, home to nature walks like the 4km Bicton Hill Circuit and the scenic Cutten Brothers Walking Track, where the rainforest meets the sea.

For more excitement, rent a bike to venture through the rainforest or cruise along the beach. Mission Beach, with its laid-back vibe, holds an exciting secret - white water rafting! Dive into all the adrenaline-packed adventures this coastal gem has to offer.

Mission Beach - Port Douglas

Day 16: From Paronella Park to Four Mile Beach

Begin today at Paronella Park, a mystical moss-covered garden just 45 minutes north of Mission Beach. Afterwards, drive to Etty Bay, known for being home to unique southern cassowaries. From here, enter Wooroonooran National Park to see the beautiful Josephine Falls, then venture on to Babinda Boulders; located an hour south of Cairns, this site offers a refreshing swim spot year-round.

In the afternoon, enjoy the unspoiled beauty of Four Mile Beach with its golden sands, warm coral waters, and captivating rock pools at the northern end. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy however you wish.

Port Douglas - Great Barrier Reef - Port Douglas

Day 17: Sensational snorkelling

Embark on an exhilarating underwater journey today with Silversonic! This day is all about exploring the enchanting world of the Great Barrier Reef.

With special roaming permits and remote locations, you'll snorkel at three distinct and ecologically diverse reef sites, carefully selected to match the day's conditions. Don’t worry if you are a beginner - some of the most vibrant snorkelling experiences are in the shallow areas around the reef top, where sunlight nurtures coral growth.

For certified divers, the day offers up to three spectacular dives in three different Great Barrier Reef environments, with options like drift and wall dives, bommie and pinnacle explorations, coral gardens, and thrilling swim-throughs.

Port Douglas - Daintree - Port Douglas

Day 18: Daintree delights

Embark on a unique cultural adventure led by local Aboriginal guides today. Explore Kuku Yalanji country and soak in the natural and cultural wonders from Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation. Your journey spans the ancient Daintree Rainforest, a cruise along the majestic Daintree River, and the mystical Cape Tribulation. Dive into coastal habitats, learn about indigenous land relationships, taste bush tucker, and cool off in pristine streams.

After your adventure, relax in charming Port Douglas, which offers a variety of cafes, bars, and delicious restaurants.

Port Douglas - Cairns - Sydney

Day 19: Spectacular Sydney

This morning, drive from Port Douglas to Cairns, where you'll drop off your rental car before boarding a flight to the vibrant heart of Australia, Sydney.

The city's magnetic charm stems from its stunning harbour, beachside strolls, and thriving culinary and entertainment scenes. Start with a leisurely walk through the Royal Botanic Garden leading to the iconic Mrs Macquarie's Chair, offering the ultimate view of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. As the sun sets, dive into Sydney's culinary delights and discover hidden bars, lively pubs, and perhaps some live music.

Sydney

Day 20: Explore Sydney on two wheels

Get ready for a Sydney experience like no other, as you join your energetic guides for a classic bike tour. You'll pedal through parks, along the harbour, and past all the iconic landmarks. Feel the thrill of riding on the world-famous Sydney Harbour Bridge and enjoy a pit stop at one of the city's oldest pubs.

In the afternoon, take on Sydney by foot. For a deeper dive into the bridge's history, visit the Pylon Lookout & Museum, offering fascinating insights and panoramic views. Hop on a ferry to Milsons Point and embark on a scenic walk back to the city across the bridge.

Sydney

Day 21: Scenic Strolls

Start your day at the iconic Bondi Beach, a hub of surf culture lined with modern boutiques. Head to Surry Hills for breakfast, then explore Darlinghurst, Sydney's LGBTQ+ district known for its lively rainbow-coloured Oxford Street.

Continue to Newtown, Sydney's bohemian university district boasting unique shops and craft breweries. On Saturdays, be sure to visit Paddington Markets and appreciate the Victorian architecture. You can also relax at Centennial Park or the Royal Botanic Garden.

In the afternoon, stroll along the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, a 6km scenic journey. Explore beaches, admire Aboriginal rock carvings at Mark's Park, and sip on coffee at Tamarama Beach. Pass by the heritage-listed Waverley Cemetery, before finally reaching Coogee Beach.

Sydney

Day 22: Goodbye, Australia!

Take the morning to unwind and reflect on your trip, before transferring to the airport for your departure flight home. Take with you all the new memories from your trip Down Under, and come back soon!