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Most of the Coast: Sydney to Cairns

16 days, Sydney to Cairns

Travellers surfing on pristine waters in Sydney, Australia
Map of the route for Most of the Coast: Sydney to Cairns
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Itinerary Notes

Please note that most 18-to-Thirtysomethings accommodation in Australia is multi-share. For more info, see our Trip Details.

Itinerary

Day 1Sydney

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.

Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group

Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends

Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.

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Optional Activities - Day 1 HideShow

The Rocks Neighbourhood Visit
The Rocks1h-2h
Free

Set out and explore this historic colonial neighbourhood in the city centre. Bordered by the Sydney Harbour on one side, it is home to vibrant cafés and pubs, cobbled alleyways, and charming shops. Snap some shots of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, and get a feel for cosmopolitan Sydney.

Accommodation

Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.

Wake Up! Sydney (or similar)
Hostel

Day 2Sydney

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"!

Free Time
Sydney Full Day

There's lots to do and see in Sydney – make the most of a free day to explore.

Orientation With CEO
30m-1h

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

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Optional Activities - Day 2 HideShow

Coogee Beach to Bondi Beach Coastal Walk
Coogee Beach – Bondi Beach

Go for a walk along one of the most iconic trails in Australia. Pass by secluded beaches, massive cliffs, and more breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean than imaginable – all before arriving at the world-famous Bondi Beach. From May to December, keep a keen eye on the ocean to try and spot migrating humpback whales.

Sydney Opera House Visit
Sydney
43-185AUD per person

Stroll along the waterfront to admire Sydney's most iconic landmark, designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon and opened by Queen Elizabeth 11 in 1973. Take a guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site to discover its history, folklore, and more.
Some two million people a year come to see concerts and cultural performances Opera House. Catch the boom of the grand organ–with more than 10,000 pipes, it took 10 years to build and is the largest mechanical organ in the world.

Accommodation

Wake Up! Sydney (or similar)
Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 3Sydney/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.

Train
Sydney – Coffs Harbour9h

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the train views as you head north.

Private Vehicle
Coffs Harbour – Arrawarra

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Accommodation

Spot X Surf Camp (or similar)
Lodge

Meals included:

Dinner

Day 4Arrawarra

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!

Your Hands-On Moment: Surfing Lesson

Take to the waves with an included surf lesson at the secret Spot X. Learn to paddle, stand, and ride a wave into shore! With top-notch instructors in the water, get ready to ride the swells like a local in no time.

Free Time
Spot X Afternoon

Head out for a swim or simply chill on the beach. The afternoon is yours!

Kangaroo Trek
Arrawarra

Observe kangaroos (and their joeys) in their natural habitat during an hour-long trek through the coastal bushland around Arrawarra. Along the way, pass Indigenous midden sites with fossilized shells. Don't forget your camera!

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Optional Activities - Day 4 HideShow

Swimming

Grab your bathing suit and go for a refreshing swim.

Accommodation

Spot X Surf Camp (or similar)
Lodge

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 5Arrawarra/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.

Cape Byron Lighthouse Visit
Cape Byron30m-2h

Cape Byron Lighthouse is 3km (1.9 mi) northeast of Byron Bay. The popular white structure emits the most powerful light of all working lighthouses in the country, and it's also located at the most easterly point of the Australian continent. Head up to the top of the tower to scan the ocean for whales (the Southern Cross University's Whale Research Centre is located here).

Private Vehicle
Arrawarra – Byron Bay3h210km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Accommodation

Wake Up! Byron Bay (or similar)
Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 6Byron 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.

Your Discover Moment
Byron Bay Full Day

There's plenty to see and do in Byron Bay, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like sea kayaking, yoga, and skydiving. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

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Optional Activities - Day 6 HideShow

Skydiving
Byron Bay2h-5h
409AUD per person

Enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of Byron Bay from an eagle's perspective this morning. Suit up, get briefed, and board the prop plane to soar high about the land and sea. Strap onto your instructor, take a breath, and leap into a once-in-a-lifetime free fall. This is what a natural high truly feels like!

Byron Bay Ocean Kayaking
Byron Bay

Slice through the waters of the iconic Byron Bay in the morning on this half-day kayaking adventure. Paddle past the most easterly point of the Australian mainland, see the Julian Rocks Marine Reserve, and ride the waves into shore. On top of it all, keep a close eye for dolphins and whales (in season) who call these waters home. Epic? Definitely.
This activity is in the ocean and conditions can sometimes be rough due to weather. This is a very fun activity but first time kayakers may find this challenging.

Accommodation

Wake Up! Byron Bay (or similar)
Hostel

Day 7Byron 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.

Private Vehicle
Byron Bay – Brisbane4h288km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Daisy Hill Koala Centre
Daisy Hill

Located within the Daisy Hill Conservation Park, the Koala Centre is a dedicated koala education facility and a beautiful spot to see these unique Australian animals.

Accommodation

BUNK Brisbane (or similar)
Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 8Brisbane/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. 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.

Private Vehicle
Brisbane – Noosa2h45m-3h250km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Welcome to Country Ceremony
K'gari (Fraser Island)

Welcome to Paradise and the traditional homeland of the Butchulla people. Start your time on the island with a special welcome ceremony by K'gari's Traditional Owners. K'gari is a UNESCO World Heritage listed site, known for its natural beauty and ongoing geomorphological processes.

K'gari Inland Experience
K'gari (Fraser Island)

Hop into an off roading, 4x4 vehicle and explore K'gari from the inside out. Check out inland highlights like Boorangoora (Lake McKenzie) and Central Station. Boorangoora is a gorgeous, crystal lake filled solely by rain water. Visit Central Station and enjoy the island's ancient sub-tropical rainforest while learning some of the islands more modern history.

Twilight Beach Walk
K'gari (Fraser Island)

Take a stroll along the beach in K'gari during sunset and watch as this beautiful paradise becomes even more amazing.

Stories around the campfire
K'gari (Fraser Island)

Join your group around the campfire and look up at the stars.

Accommodation

The Eco Retreat (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 9K'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.

K'gari Beach Tour
K'gari (Fraser Island)

Climb into a 4x4 vehicle for a full day tour of K'gari Island. Walk on Kirrar Sandblow, drive along 75 mile beach, and see the towering coloured sand dunes at the Pinnacles. Grab a swim at Eli Creek, the largest freshwater creek on the island.

Private Vehicle
K'gari (Fraser Island) – Noosa1h30m115km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Accommodation

Bounce Noosa (or similar)
Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 10Noosa

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.

Noosa Coastal Walk
Noosa

Hike as a group along the shoreline between the Noosa Headlands and Hell's Gate, passing by gorgeous scenery along the way. Peer into the trees and try to spot koalas in their natural habitat and visit spots like Boiling Point, Dolphin Point, and Hell's Gates.

Free Time
Noosa Afternoon

Enjoy a free day in Noosa by taking in the shops along Hasting Street in search of souvenirs, having a coffee on the beach, or a surf in the Ocean.

Accommodation

Bounce Noosa (or similar)
Hostel

Day 11Noosa/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!

Free Time
Noosa Full Day

Enjoy a free day in Noosa by taking in the shops along Hasting Street in search of souvenirs, having a coffee on the beach, or a surf in the Ocean. You can also choose to spend time back at the hostel or participate in some of the optional activities offered in the area.

Overnight Train (seats)
Noosa – Airlie Beach

Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.

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Optional Activities - Day 11 HideShow

Noosa Everglades Kayak Adventure
Noosa Everglades

Join a guided day's paddle into the Noosa Everglades and Upper Noosa River, enjoy a delicious hearty lunch, take a refreshing dip in the river and be inspired by this remote wilderness experience.

Eumundi Market
Noosa

Jump on public transport and head to the Eumundi Market. Renowned for its locally made artisan treasures there’s no other market quite like it. The Original Eumundi Markets is the biggest and the best artisan market in Australia.

Day 12Airlie 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.

Free Time
Airlie Beach

Enjoy free time in Airlie Beach. Opt to relax by the lagoon, take a scenic flight of cruise on a jetski.

Accommodation

Nomads Airlie Beach Hostel (or similar)
Hostel

Day 13Whitsunday 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.

Whitsunday Islands Boating Excursion
Whitsunday Island8h

Enjoy a day out on the water amidst some of the 74 tropical islands that make up the Whitsunday archipelago. Visit Whitehaven Beach, jump overboard for a quick refreshing dip, and make friends with the tropical fish that thrive within Australia's Great Barrier Reef.

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Optional Activities - Day 13 HideShow

Whitsunday Islands Snorkelling
Whitsunday Islands30m-1h
Free

Take advantage of the included snorkel gear, throw on a mask and see what lives in the Great Barrier Reef. (Note that fins are not provided in order to adhere with local coral conservation efforts.)

Accommodation

Nomads Airlie Beach Hostel (or similar)
Hostel

Meals included:

Lunch

Day 14Airlie 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!

Get ready for an early morning wake-up today for the journey to Cairns. Make sure to stock up on snacks and bring personal entertainment – it may be one of the longer travel days on this trip, but it's worth it to reach The Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef!

Private Vehicle
Airlie Beach – Cairns7h-8h620km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Accommodation

Cairns Central YHA (or similar)
Hostel

Day 15Cairns

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, get that adrenaline pumping by whitewater rafting or 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.

Depending on availability of Dive Instructors, an upgrade to SCUBA diving from snorkelling may be possible but is by no means guaranteed. Please speak to your CEO to see if this is available.

Your Big Night Out Moment:

Release your inner break dancer and go wild tonight in Cairns with your G travel family. Get ready to bust a move and have the time of your life. Whether it’s a pub crawl, drink specials or a bonfire on the beach, celebrate late into the night with your new best friends.

Your Discover Moment
Cairns Full Day

There's plenty to see and do in Cairns, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, whitewater rafting, and skydiving. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

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Optional Activities - Day 15 HideShow

Skydiving
Cairns2h-6h
310-400AUD per person

Enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of Cairns from an eagle's perspective. Suit up, get briefed and board the prop plane to soar high above the land and sea. Strap onto your instructor, take a breath and leap into a once-in-a-lifetime free fall. This is what a natural high truly feels like!

Whitewater Rafting
Cairns12h-12h30m
138-210AUD per person

Put on a helmet, grab a paddle and raft the Class 3 & 4 rapids of the mighty Tully River, considered the best rafting river in all Australia & New Zealand.

Great Barrier Reef Snorkelling from Cairns
Great Barrier Reef8h-9h

Don a mask and snorkel the largest coral reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef. Say g'day to Nemo, the clown fish, and some of the 1,500 other species of tropical fish that thrive in the warm waters off Australia's east coast.

Depending on availability of Dive Instructors, an upgrade to SCUBA diving may be possible but is by no means guaranteed. Please speak to your CEO to see if this is available.

Accommodation

Cairns Central YHA (or similar)
Hostel

Day 16Cairns

Depart at any time.

Departure Day

Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

Most of the Coast: Sydney to Cairns

| 16 days - Sydney to Cairns - from $2699 USD