East Coast Tour - 3 Week Itinerary

Australia’s East Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline, offering diverse landscapes and vibrant cities. From the cosmopolitan energy of Sydney, with its iconic Opera House and Bondi Beach, to the laid-back charm of Brisbane, the region is packed with attractions. Further north, the tropical city of Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders.

Along the coast, travelers can explore national parks, pristine beaches, and vibrant coastal towns like Byron Bay and the Gold Coast. Adventure seekers can surf, snorkel, and dive, while nature lovers can discover rainforests, wildlife, and scenic drives. With its mix of urban excitement and natural beauty, Australia’s East Coast is a dream destination for any traveler.

3 Week Itinerary

Day 1: Depart Sydney and drive to Port Stephens (2.5 hours). Spend the afternoon settling in and relaxing at Nelson Bay or Fingal Bay, enjoying the tranquil beaches.

Day 2: Start the day with a dolphin-watching cruise from Nelson Bay. Afterward, head to the Stockton Sand Dunes for some sandboarding or a 4WD tour. Spend the evening dining at a local seafood restaurant.

Day 3: Spend the morning kayaking or snorkeling at Shoal Bay. Later, hike up Tomaree Head for stunning panoramic views of the coast. Enjoy your last evening in Port Stephens, soaking in the relaxed atmosphere.

Day 4: Drive from Port Stephens to Coffs Harbour (4.5 hours). Upon arrival, visit the Big Banana, and spend the evening relaxing at one of the local beaches or exploring the Coffs Harbour Jetty.

Day 5: Take a day trip to Dorrigo National Park, about 1.5 hours away. Explore the Skywalk, hike to Crystal Shower Falls, and enjoy the lush rainforest scenery. Return to Coffs Harbour in the evening.

Day 6: Spend the day enjoying the beaches, try surfing, or explore the Coffs Harbour Botanic Garden. You can also take a leisurely walk along the coastal trails or visit nearby attractions like Muttonbird Island.

Day 7: Drive to Byron Bay (3 hours). Spend the afternoon exploring the town, visiting the boutique shops, and relaxing on Main Beach. Catch the sunset from Cape Byron Lighthouse, the easternmost point of Australia.

Day 8: Start the day with a surf lesson or take a kayaking tour to spot dolphins. Later, explore nearby hinterland towns like Bangalow or Mullumbimby, known for their charming cafes and art galleries.

Day 9: Take a day trip to the quirky town of Nimbin, famous for its alternative lifestyle. Explore the Nimbin Rocks, visit the local markets, and enjoy the laid-back vibe before returning to Byron Bay.

Day 10: Drive to the Gold Coast (1.5 hours). Spend the day at one of the theme parks like Dreamworld, Sea World, or Movie World. In the evening, explore the vibrant nightlife of Surfers Paradise.

Day 11: Spend the day relaxing on the beaches of Broadbeach or Burleigh Heads. Visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary to see Australian wildlife up close, including koalas and kangaroos.

Day 12: Take a day trip to the Gold Coast Hinterland. Explore Lamington National Park, go for a hike, or visit the charming village of Tamborine Mountain. Return to the Gold Coast in the evening.

Day 13: Drive to Brisbane (1 hour). Explore the South Bank area, visit the Queensland Art Gallery, and take a walk along the Brisbane River. In the evening, enjoy dinner in the trendy West End or Fortitude Valley neighborhoods.

Day 14: Spend the day visiting Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, where you can cuddle a koala and see other native Australian animals. Alternatively, take a ferry to Moreton Island for snorkeling, sandboarding, and dolphin spotting.

Day 15: Explore Brisbane’s cultural attractions, such as the Brisbane Museum or the Gallery of Modern Art. Spend your afternoon shopping in the Queen Street Mall or exploring the Botanic Gardens. In the evening, take a sunset cruise on the Brisbane River.

Day 16: Drive to the Sunshine Coast (2 hours). Spend the day at Mooloolaba Beach or visit Australia Zoo, made famous by Steve Irwin. In the evening, head to Noosa and settle into your accommodation.

Day 17: Explore Noosa National Park, walking the coastal track that offers stunning ocean views and the chance to spot koalas in the wild. Spend the afternoon relaxing on Noosa Main Beach or paddleboarding along the Noosa River.

Day 18: Take a day trip to the nearby Eumundi Markets, the largest artisan market in Australia. Alternatively, enjoy more time in Noosa, perhaps renting a boat to explore the Noosa Everglades or indulging in a spa day.

Day 19: Fly from Brisbane to Proserpine Airport (near Airlie Beach). Spend the afternoon exploring Airlie Beach, relaxing by the lagoon, or visiting local markets. In the evening, enjoy dinner with a view of the Coral Sea.

Day 20: Take a full-day tour to the Whitsunday Islands. Visit the pristine Whitehaven Beach, explore Hill Inlet, and snorkel at one of the nearby coral reefs. Return to Airlie Beach in the evening.

Day 21: Spend the day at leisure in Airlie Beach. You can take another tour to the outer Great Barrier Reef, relax at a nearby beach, or enjoy some watersports. In the evening, unwind with a sunset cruise.

Day 22: Fly to Cairns (1.5 hours). Upon arrival, explore the Cairns Esplanade, visit the Botanic Gardens, or take a dip in the Cairns Lagoon. Spend the evening enjoying the lively atmosphere of the waterfront.

Day 23: Take a full-day tour to the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel or dive among the vibrant coral and marine life, or take a glass-bottom boat tour. Enjoy lunch on board your tour vessel before returning to Cairns in the late afternoon.

Day 24: Take a day trip to the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation. Experience a guided walk through the ancient rainforest, visit Mossman Gorge, and explore the stunning Cape Tribulation Beach where the reef meets the rainforest.

Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely morning in Cairns. You might visit the local markets for last-minute souvenirs or take a scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef before heading to the airport for your departure.

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If you have any queries , you can contact us at bookings@trippinandsippin.co.uk