With a coastline that stretches around 4,000km from Melbourne, Victoria in the south to Cairns, Queensland in the North, Australia’s East Coast has it all. It’s a popular route taken as a self-drive or multi-centre itinerary with superb locations including Sydney, Byron Bay, Surfer’s Paradise, Brisbane, Noosa and Fraser Island – and of course, the amazing book-ends of Melbourne and Cairns themselves. In this vast part of the world, you’ll discover golden beaches, rainforest, vineyards, cosmopolitan cities and an abundance of nature. Many will travel the East Coast in 2 weeks, though to explore it more extensively, and if you have the time, four weeks is a real must!
What you’ll love most about Australia’s East Coast
- Begin your journey along Australia’s East Coast in Sydney, the vibrant capital of New South Wales, where iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach await exploration, along with a rich tapestry of cultural attractions, dining experiences, and outdoor adventures
- Venture north from Sydney to the Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine-producing region, where rolling vineyards, gourmet restaurants, and cellar doors beckon wine lovers to indulge in tastings of world-class wines and gourmet delights amidst picturesque countryside landscapes
- Continue your journey to Port Stephens, a coastal paradise known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life, offering opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, dolphin watching, and sandboarding down the towering dunes of Stockton Beach
- Journey further north to Byron Bay, a bohemian coastal town famed for its laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, and alternative lifestyle, where you can surf world-class waves, practice yoga, explore vibrant markets, and soak up the eclectic arts and music scene
- Head north to Cairns and explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system, teeming with vibrant marine life, colourful coral formations, and exhilarating dive sites, offering unforgettable underwater adventures and scenic cruises to tropical islands
- Venture into the ancient beauty of the Daintree Rainforest, located near Cairns, where lush foliage, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife await exploration, providing opportunities for guided walks, wildlife spotting, and cultural experiences with Indigenous communities
- Island-hop through the Whitsunday Islands, a pristine archipelago located off the coast of Queensland, where secluded beaches, turquoise waters, and coral reefs offer the perfect setting for sailing, snorkelling, diving, and luxury resort getaways
- Finally, explore the Sunshine Coast, with its laid-back coastal towns, stunning beaches, and lush hinterland, where you can swim with humpback whales, hike through national parks, and indulge in fresh local produce at gourmet restaurants and farmers’ markets