Day 1
Arrive in Sydney
Your adventure begins in Sydney, Australia's oldest and grandest city. Its' stunning natural harbour, golden beaches, and pleasant climate ensure the perfect introduction to Australia. Get to know the city with a stroll around Circular Quay, where the Harbour Bridge stands at one end and the Opera House at the other.
Overnight: Adina Hotel Sydney Darling Harbour or similar
Day 2
Sydney Sightseeing Tour
Embark on a half-day panoramic Sydney tour, where you'll take in breath-taking views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The tour takes you along the eastern suburbs' scenic coastline, with a stop at Watsons Bay for stunning views over Sydney Harbour. Next, visit the famous Bondi Beach, strolling along its promenade and enjoying the sunshine. Your day ends back at Circular Quay, having passed through Paddington, Chinatown, and Darling Harbour.
Overnight: Adina Hotel Sydney Darling Harbour or similar.
Day 3
Sydney to Port Stephens via Hunter Valley Wine Country (Approximate Distance: 295 km | Driving Time: 3 hours 15 mins)
Pick up your rental car and drive across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, towards Port Stephens. Stop at Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine region, to enjoy stunning vineyard views. The region, home to over 150 wineries, offers a scenic lunch stop as you admire the beautiful landscapes. Keep an eye out for wild kangaroos along the way.
Overnight: Anchorage Port Stephens or similar.
Day 4
Port Stephens at Your Leisure
Spend the day exploring Port Stephens at your own pace. You may choose to hike to the summit of Mt Tomaree for stunning views, or embark on a dolphin-watching cruise.
Overnight: Anchorage Port Stephens or similar.
Day 5
Port Stephens to Port Macquarie (Approximate Distance: 220 km | Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins)
Drive to Port Macquarie, located on New South Wales's Mid North Coast. Known for beautiful beaches and a fantastic year-round climate, Port Macquarie is the perfect spot for a stroll along the 9km Coastal Walk, or enjoying a meal by the waterfront.
Overnight: Mantra The Observatory Port Macquarie or similar.
Day 6
Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour (Approximate Distance: 155 km | Driving Time: 1 hour 45 mins)
Travel to Coffs Harbour, a subtropical coastal town framed by lush forests and banana plantations. The Forest Sky Pier offers stunning views of the city and coastline, or you may choose to visit the Solitary Islands Marine Park to swim with humpback whales (June-Oct).
Accommodation: BreakFree Aanuka Beach, Coffs Harbour or similar
Day 7
Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay (Approximate Distance: 235 km | Driving Time: 3 hours)
Next, journey to the vibrant, free-spirited town of Byron Bay, known for its thriving arts scene and relaxed beach culture. Visit the Cape Byron Lighthouse for panoramic views, or watch the professional surfers at The Pass.
Overnight: The Lord Byron or similar.
Day 8
Byron Bay & Hinterland Kayak Tour
Join a full-day guided kayak tour, beginning with a bush walk to Minyon Falls. Spot dolphins, whales (May-Oct), and turtles while taking in spectacular views of the coastline.
Overnight: The Lord Byron or similar.
Day 9
Byron Bay to Brisbane (Approximate Distance: 165 km | Driving Time: 2 hours)
Cross into Queensland and head to Brisbane via the iconic Gold Coast. Known for its golden beaches, surfing spots, and theme parks, the Gold Coast is perfect for a stop along the way. Arrive in Brisbane, Queensland’s subtropical capital, known for its vibrant arts scene and cultural attractions.
Overnight: Punthill Brisbane or similar.
Day 10
Free Day in Brisbane
Explore Brisbane at your leisure. Take a river cruise past the city’s landmarks, or visit the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA). You can also relax at the man-made Streets Beach in South Bank, or shop in Fortitude Valley.
Overnight: Punthill Brisbane or similar.
Day 11
Brisbane to Noosa (Approximate Distance: 150 km | Driving Time: 2 hours)
Enjoy a scenic drive to Noosa, renowned for its stunning beaches and surrounding national parks. En route, consider visiting the Australia Zoo, founded by the late Steve Irwin.
Overnight: Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas or similar.
Day 12
Fraser Island 4WD Day Tour
Embark on an adventurous 4WD tour of Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island. Explore 75 Mile Beach, take a guided rainforest walk, swim in Lake McKenzie, and enjoy a scenic tour through towering forests.
Overnight: Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas or similar (lunch included).
Day 13
Noosa to Hervey Bay (Approximate Distance: 160 km | Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins)
Travel to Hervey Bay, known as the whale-watching capital of the world. The sheltered waters of the bay are home to migrating humpback whales from July to November.
Overnight: Mantra Hervey Bay or similar.
Day 14
Hervey Bay to Rockhampton (Approximate Distance: 385 km | Driving Time: 4 hours 15 mins)
Continue your journey to Rockhampton, where you can explore the town's rich history and heritage as Australia’s “Beef Capital”.
Overnight: Empire Apartment Hotel Rockhampton or similar.
Day 15
Airlie Beach: Gateway to the Whitsunday Islands (Approximate Distance: 485 km | Driving Time: 5 hours 30 mins)
Drive to Airlie Beach, a tropical resort town perfect for exploring the Whitsunday Islands. Enjoy the lagoon, take a ferry to the islands, or relax on the beautiful beaches.
Overnight: Marina Shores, Airlie Beach or similar.
Day 16
Cruise the Whitsundays: Hamilton Island & Whitehaven Beach
Cruise to Hamilton Island and Whitehaven Beach. Explore Hamilton Island’s attractions before sailing to Whitehaven Beach for a swim in crystal-clear waters and a picnic lunch.
Overnight: Marina Shores, Airlie Beach or similar.
Day 17
Airlie Beach to Townsville (Approximate Distance: 275 km | Driving Time: 3 hours 15 mins)
Drive north to Townsville, Australia’s largest tropical city. Visit the Reef HQ aquarium or take a ferry to Magnetic Island.
Overnight: Hotel Grand Chancellor Townsville or similar.
Day 18
Townsville to Cairns (Palm Cove) (Approximate Distance: 350 km | Driving Time: 4 hours 15 mins)
Continue your journey to Cairns, a hub for reef cruises, snorkelling, and rainforest adventures. Relax at the Cairns Esplanade lagoon after your drive.
Overnight: Peppers Beach Club, Palm Cove (Cairns) or similar.
Day 19
Great Barrier Reef Cruise
Take a full-day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef, where you can snorkel, scuba dive, or enjoy glass-bottom boat tours over vibrant coral gardens. You may also spot marine life such as turtles, rays, and tropical fish.
Overnight: Peppers Beach Club, Palm Cove (Cairns) or similar (lunch included).
Day 20
Fly home
Time to go home or continue your travels.
