Most of the Coast: Sydney to Cairns - 16 Days

From £1,930£121 per day Save 26%

Who is this trip for

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

  • Learn to surf at Spot X Surf Camp
  • Bliss out in famous Byron Bay
  • Learn about Indigenous culture on an overnight stay on K'gari (Fraser Island)

Talk to a travel expert

Our experts are ready to perfect your trip with personalised advice on itineraries, transfers, and local tips.

Email UsCall Us: 0208 004 8886
Recommended

Free Brochure

Uncover insider tips, see a packing list and view a detailed itinerary and accommodation information.

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 sailing and 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

    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

    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

    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)

    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 climb sand dunes, 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, admire the scenery on the bus ride north to Cairns. We'll make a few pit stops along the way to stretch your legs, see some sights and check out some of Australia big things!

  • Day 15

    Cairns

    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 multi-share) 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 25

    from £1,930
  • Sep 25

    from £1,930
  • Oct 25

    from £1,930
  • Nov 25

    from £2,339
  • Dec 25

    from £2,465
  • Jan 26

    from £2,305
  • Feb 26

    from £2,850
  • Mar 26

    from £2,850
  • Apr 26

    from £2,850
  • May 26

    from £2,712
  • Jun 26

    from £2,712
  • Jul 26

    from £2,524
  • Aug 26

    from £2,524
  • Sep 26

    from £2,524
  • Oct 26

    from £2,524
  • Nov 26

    from £2,712
  • Dec 26

    from £2,850
  • Save 26%
    Sun 5 Oct 2025 > Mon 20 Oct 2025Guaranteed Departure
    6+ spaces of 20 left
    £2,599Best offer£1,930
  • Save 26%
    Sun 19 Oct 2025 > Mon 3 Nov 2025Guaranteed Departure
    6+ spaces of 20 left
    £2,599Best offer£1,930
  • Save 16%
    Sun 26 Oct 2025 > Mon 10 Nov 2025Guaranteed Departure
    6+ spaces of 20 left
    £2,599£2,187

Customer reviews & ratings

(4.65 out of 5)
Based on 466 reviews
  • Grateful to the people who came on this journey with me and i will forever hold this trip near to my heart Amazing adventure with fun people

    Egill Oct, 2024 Verified
  • Incredible experience, just needs a few adjustments Professional

    Emily Oct, 2024 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.

  • Anna's profile
  • Petra's profile
  • Livvy's profile

Still have questions?

Can't find the answer you're looking for? Please chat to our friendly team.

Get In Touch

Why book with us

  • Help Change The World

    We collaborate with local businesses and communities.

  • Best Price Guaranteed

    We won't be beaten on price. If you find this adventure at a lower price please get in touch!

  • You're In Good Hands

    We work with trusted tour operators around the world.

  • You're spoilt for choice

    We have the best choice of adventures on the market.

Similar adventures

Was this page helpful ?

If you need information about a tour or a booking, please contact us instead.

Sign up for our deals

Stay up to date with our new latest deals & special offers!

Your email is secure and we won't send you any spam.
Feefo Rating 4.9/5

The Adventure People has been rated excellent by its customers