Most of the Coast: Sydney to Cairns - 16 Days

From £1,893£118 per daySave 26%

Trip Snapshot

Genders

  • Female69%
  • Male31%

Average age

25
18 Min39 Max

Start / End

  • Sydney
  • Cairns

Physical rating

3/5

Group size

1 - 20

Meals included

14

Highlights

  • Begin your adventure immersed in the vibrant life of Sydney, from the architectural marvel of the Opera House to the sun-kissed shores of Bondi Beach, soaking in the city's iconic culture and coastal energy.
  • Embrace Australia's surf lifestyle with an included lesson at Spot X Surf Camp, catching waves on picturesque beaches before venturing out on a unique kangaroo trek.
  • Discover the bohemian charm of Byron Bay, where you can trek to the Cape Byron Lighthouse for breathtaking ocean views, with a chance to spot migrating whales and playful dolphins, and enjoy ample free time for surfing or adventurous optional activities.
  • Embark on an unforgettable 4WD adventure on K'gari (Fraser Island), the world's largest sand island, immersing yourself in a traditional welcome by the Butchulla people, swimming in the pristine Lake McKenzie, and exploring ancient rainforests.
  • Explore the stunning Noosa National Park, hiking along dramatic coastal paths to Hell's Gate where turquoise waters meet rocky shores, with opportunities to spot koalas and enjoy leisurely afternoons on idyllic beaches.
  • Conclude your epic journey in tropical Cairns, the vibrant gateway to the magnificent Great Barrier Reef, where you can snorkel amongst vibrant marine life or choose from thrilling optional activities like whitewater rafting or skydiving.
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What's inside the PDF

  • Day-by-day itinerary
    Every day mapped out, covering activities, travel times, meals and where you'll stay.
  • Packing & kit list
    Exactly what to bring, from clothing and essentials to luggage guidelines and what's available to hire locally.
  • What's included
    Accommodation, transport, guides and meals, so you can see exactly what your price covers.
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Summary

Now's the time to explore Australia on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. Turn your "must-do" list into "been there, done all of that" on this 16-day tour up Australia’s East Coast. This classic Sydney-to-Cairns route introduces you to both sides of modern Australia — the bright lights of the big city and the raw beauty of the rugged coastline. You’ll get to try your hand at everything from surfing to snorkelling. And when you travel in small groups, you'll get to meet the locals and experience their land as they do. That amazing new frontier you’ve been looking for? Here it is.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Sydney

    Arrive at any time.

    There's nothing quite like a night out to get people comfortable with one another. Hit up Side Bar, connected to where you will be staying at the Wake Up Hostel in Sydney. This is the liveliest bar around, sporting a huge young and local crowd. There’s always non-stop action with the entertainment so get ready to have a few drinks, let your hair down, and dance until you drop! There are no planned activities during the day, so check into the hotel and explore the city.

    If you arrive early enough, head down to the harbour's edge to 'The Rocks' historic area.

  • Day 2

    Sydney

    Immerse yourself in all things Sydney with a free day to explore the oldest and biggest Australian city. Glide along the harbour on a ferry and gaze at the white sails of the Opera House gleaming in the sun. Get lost as you wander the narrow, cobbled laneways and take in Sydney’s fabled history. Catch some rays on the sand at Bondi Beach or duck out of your comfort zone and surf the green-barrel breaks just off shore. The choice is yours so get as adventurous as you like in the "Land Down Under"!

  • Day 3

    Sydney/Arrawarra

    It's all aboard today as you take the train north to Coffs Harbour. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the views. After pulling into Coffs Harbour station, the group will travel to Spot X Surf Camp, our base for the next few days.

  • Day 4

    Arrawarra

    As the sun rises along the ocean hit the beach for an included surf lesson with Spot X. Located in one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the country they are completely devoted to the surf lifestyle.

    Spend some time in the sun and laughing in the waves with your travel tribe before heading out on a kangaroo trek. Then it’s time for a free afternoon to enjoy your surroundings. Soak up views of Solitary Islands Marine Park, embark on a rockpool scramble to look for fish traps and sea creatures, or wander over to Mullawarra beach for a picnic. Your only real job today is to have fun!

  • Day 5

    Arrawarra/Byron Bay

    Adventure through lush national parks, stunning beaches, rolling green hills, and small but vibrant towns full of charm and authentic Australian culture as the group drives from Arrawarra to Byron Bay. Grab lunch in the surf and arts town of Byron Bay, before walking to Cape Byron Lighthouse to see the easternmost point in the country. If luck is on your side you may glimpse migrating whales and pods of resident dolphins. Travel the coastal road to the stunning surf and arts town of Byron Bay. Enjoy plenty of free time to experience the hippie surfing town.

  • Day 6

    Byron Bay

    Welcome to Byron Bay… the city of surfing and sunbathing! The day is yours to explore; walk along hidden beaches, play in the surf, grab a massage. Want to get your adrenaline pumping? Go skydiving, try sea kayaking, or go on a dolphin watch. At the end of it all hop on that surfboard for one last ride because as the locals say, “You haven’t surfed until you’ve surfed Byron Man!"

    Opt to pre-book the "Byron Bay Ocean Kayaking" activity on the checkout page ahead of time, to include this optional on your tour.

  • Day 7

    Byron Bay/Brisbane

    Venture north with your group to the capital of Queensland; Brisbane. Pass by national parks, mountains, surfy enclaves, and endless stretches of sand bordering brilliant blue water. Then, stretch those legs one final time on an included walk at the Daisy Hill Koala Centre. Nestled amongst eucalyptus trees, the centre features multi-level viewing of the resident rescue koalas and interactive educational displays, making it a unique place to learn about koalas and their conservation. Tonight, experience a night out with the group in Queensland's capital.

  • Day 8

    Brisbane/K'gari (Fraser Island)

    An early rise today starts your journey to K'gari (Fraser Island) World Heritage Area. Upon arrival to the largest sand island in the world, you will go through a traditional welcome by the Butchulla people, setting the tone for what's to come. After the welcome ceremony, get straight into the 4WD adventure. Swim in Boorangoora (Lake Mckenzie), hike beneath the amazing rainforest and walk along the beach during sunset (seasonal). At night, sit around the campfire with your new found friends. This unique stay on K'gari is hosted by the Traditional Owners of the land who are keen to share their experiences with you and welcome you. This is an incredibly unique experience and a thrilling opportunity to gain insight into Australia's Indigenous culture-both past and present.

  • Day 9

    K'gari (Fraser Island)/Noosa

    Today you'll drive along 75 Mile Beach, see the Maheno shipwreck and swim in the crystal clear Eli Creek that pumps millions of litres of spring-fed fresh water into the ocean every hour. In the afternoon, say goodbye to K'gari and head to your next beachy destination, Noosa.

  • Day 10

    Noosa

    Picture rocky coast against perfect turquoise water. Now head out with your CEO and see it first hand. Catch the ferry and start your easy hike in Noosa National Park along the waterways to end up at the secluded beach, Hell's Gate. While it sounds intimidating, it is well worth it, and really quite spectacular. Keep your eye out for koalas along the hike too. Enjoy the afternoon free in Noosa. Opt to get lunch on Hastings Street and enjoy some relaxing beach time or rent a surfboard. Then take the ferry back before dinner.

  • Day 11

    Noosa/Airlie Beach

    Enjoy a free day in cute beachfront town of Noosa! Do some shopping along Hasting Street in search of souvenirs, have a coffee on the beach, or go for a surf. Many consider Noosa to be the best place for surfing in all of Australia. You can also choose to spend time back at the hostel or participate in some of the optional activities offered in the area. In the afternoon, we'll pack our bags and head to the train station. Tonight we sleep on an overnight train as we head north to some of the most beautiful parts of the country. Fall asleep in Noosa and wake up by the Whitsundays!

  • Day 12

    Airlie Beach

    Hop off the train and board a bus for a short ride to Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier reef. After dropping your bags, do your thing in Airlie Beach. Relax on a gorgeous beach, take a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef or get some shopping in on the town. Airlie Beach is your oyster.

  • Day 13

    Whitsunday Islands/Airlie Beach

    Get ready for an amazing day at sea! Today, we'll climb aboard an ocean raft and zoom around the wispy turquoise waters. With time to snorkel, go on bushwalks, and chill on the beach, today will be as close to perfect as one can get.

  • Day 14

    Airlie Beach/Cairns

    With an early morning departure, we take a relaxing rail journey through sugar-cane fields, and coastal countryside, the perfect way to unwind and watch Queensland roll by.

  • Day 15

    Cairns

    Cairns is quite the place to visit if you love warm weather (it would be headline news for the city’s temperature to drop much below 20°C (68°F)) and want to visit the Great Barrier Reef. Take advantage of a free day to book one of the many optional activities that will get you out in nature’s playground. Snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef or get that adrenaline pumping by skydiving, and cap it all off on a Big Night Out in Cairns with your fellow travellers. Drinks all around are well deserved after spending the day escaping your comfort zones. Opt to pre-book the "Great Barrier Reef Snorkelling" activity on the checkout page ahead of time, to include this optional on your tour.

  • Day 16

    Cairns

    Depart at any time.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Hostels (13 nts, multi-share with 4-8 people), overnight train (1 nt), remote beach accommodation (1nt) **All nights are multi-share on this trip.

  • Meals

    Breakfasts: 6, Lunches: 4, Dinners: 4

    Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.

    Vegetarian options available

  • Local Guide

    Guided

    This adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.

  • Wifi

    Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.

Dates & Prices

  • Aug 2026

    from £1,893
  • Sep 2026

    from £2,145
  • Oct 2026

    from £2,187
  • Nov 2026

    from £2,330
  • Dec 2026

    from £2,870
  • Jan 2027

    from £2,741
  • Feb 2027

    from £2,870
  • Mar 2027

    from £2,870
  • Apr 2027

    from £2,870
  • May 2027

    from £2,741
  • Jun 2027

    from £2,741
  • Jul 2027

    from £2,573
  • Aug 2027

    from £2,573
  • Sep 2027

    from £2,573
  • Oct 2027

    from £2,573
  • Nov 2027

    from £2,741
  • Dec 2027

    from £2,870
  • Save 26%
    Sunday 9 Aug 2026to Monday 24 Aug 2026
    6+ spaces of 20 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £2,549£1,893
    Best offer
  • Save 26%
    Sunday 23 Aug 2026to Monday 7 Sep 2026
    6+ spaces of 20 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £2,549£1,893
    Best offer

Customer reviews & ratings

(4.65 out of 5)
Based on 466 reviews
  • Adrianus Willem Apr, 2025 Verified
  • Amazing way to see the east coast and make new friendships with an amazing CEO and likeminded travellers (majority were solo travellers so very supportive environment!), really good mix of activities and unique experiences that give lifelong memories Mostly because of Lozza and her infectious and positive attitude and the fact she really encouraged us to be in the present, it was nice not to have to worry about arrangements as we knew she had it covered and it let us just relax and take in the amazing east coast we were so lucky to see! It felt like having a mam looking after you while also being really knowledgable. Also really liked that this trip caters so much to solo travellers and meeting like minded people of a similar age and we made such good friendships through the shared dorms

    Sophie Feb, 2025 Verified

Essential trip information

Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.

Frequently asked questions

  • What is the age range for participants on this tour?

    This tour is designed for young travelers aged 18 to 39, following an "18-to-Thirtysomethings" travel style.
  • What is the typical group size for this tour?

    The maximum group size is 20 travelers, with an average of 16.
  • What type of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

    Most nights are spent in multi-share hostels (with 4-8 people), along with one overnight train journey and one night in remote beach accommodation. All accommodation is multi-share and generally split by gender.
  • Are meals included in the tour price?

    Yes, the tour includes 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners. Included breakfasts typically consist of cereal, milk, bread, spreads, juice, tea, and instant coffee. For other meals, you'll have the flexibility to choose where and what to eat, and your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) can offer recommendations.
  • What is the physical rating for this tour?

    This tour has a physical rating of 3. Participants should have at least an average level of fitness and mobility, being able to walk unaided, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum.
  • What are some of the main highlights of this trip?

    Highlights include learning to surf at Spot X Surf Camp, relaxing in famous Byron Bay, and experiencing Indigenous culture on an overnight stay on K'gari (Fraser Island).
  • What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

    Transportation includes private vehicles, buses, trains (including an overnight train), boats, 4x4 vehicles, ferries, and walking.
  • Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

    Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will need to show evidence of coverage for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation (minimum USD200,000) to your leader upon joining the group.
  • What is the local currency, and how are credit cards handled?

    The local currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted, but it's recommended to carry a combination of local currency (preferably smaller bills) and credit cards. ATM machines may only accept 4-digit PINs.
  • Should I tip service providers or the tour leader in Australia?

    Tipping service providers is not customary in Australia, but if you experience outstanding service, a tip (rarely more than 10% in quality restaurants) is appreciated. Tipping local guides is not expected unless specifically asked by your CEO. A small tip of 5-10 AUD per person, per day, for your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) is considered if they did an outstanding job, but it is not expected.
  • What optional activities are available on this tour?

    Optional activities include a visit to Sydney Opera House, a coastal walk from Coogee Beach to Bondi Beach, skydiving or ocean kayaking in Byron Bay, a Noosa Everglades kayak adventure, a visit to Eumundi Market, and in Cairns: skydiving, whitewater rafting, and Great Barrier Reef snorkeling.
  • Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

    No, solo travelers are not charged extra. Accommodation is designed for shared living, and single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip.
  • Is Wi-Fi readily available in Australia during the tour?

    Wi-Fi and internet access may not be as readily available as in other parts of the world, often incurring additional charges, and speeds might be slower than expected.
  • Are there any specific rules regarding illegal drugs or sex workers on the trip?

    Illegal drugs are not tolerated and are against local laws. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also contrary to the tour's philosophy. Group leaders have the right to expel any member found possessing drugs or utilizing the services of paid sex workers.
  • What happens if I want to try scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef and I'm on prescription medication?

    If you decide to book the optional scuba diving activity in the Great Barrier Reef and are taking any prescription medications, you will need a doctor’s release giving you permission to dive.
  • What should I know about travelling during Australian public holidays?

    Over public holidays in Australia (such as Christmas, New Years Day, Easter, and Anzac Day), there may be some limitations of services and disruptions to schedules. While tours generally operate effectively, there might be closures of optional activities and restaurants, and slight itinerary adjustments.
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