Australia East Coast Explorer

Arrival in Sydney

Arrive at Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport and transfer to your harbourside hotel. Take in your first glimpse of the iconic Harbour Bridge and Opera House from Circular Quay. Join a welcome dinner at a waterfront restaurant in The Rocks, Sydney's historic precinct.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Sydney CBD

Sydney City Highlights

Explore Sydney's top landmarks beginning with a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House. Stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens for postcard views of the harbour, then take a ferry to Manly Beach. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic Sydney Harbour lunch cruise passing under the Harbour Bridge and past waterfront mansions.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Sydney CBD

Blue Mountains Day Trip

Head west to the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park. Marvel at the Three Sisters rock formation from Echo Point, ride the world's steepest railway at Scenic World, and walk through ancient rainforest on the valley floor. Stop at the charming village of Leura for afternoon tea before returning to Sydney.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Sydney CBD

Sydney to Byron Bay

Fly from Sydney to Ballina and transfer to the laid-back coastal town of Byron Bay. Walk to the Cape Byron Lighthouse, the most easterly point of mainland Australia, with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Spend the afternoon exploring boutique shops, galleries, and the vibrant local café culture.

Accommodation: Boutique beach resort in Byron Bay

Byron Bay at Leisure

A free day to soak up the Byron Bay lifestyle. Choose from optional activities including surfing lessons at Wategos Beach, sea kayaking with dolphins, or a hinterland tour to the stunning Minyon Falls. In the evening, enjoy live music at one of Byron's famous open-air venues and a farewell dinner by the beach.

Accommodation: Boutique beach resort in Byron Bay

Byron Bay to Gold Coast

Drive north along the Pacific Highway to the Gold Coast, Australia's playground of sun, surf, and entertainment. Check into your beachfront resort at Surfers Paradise and spend the afternoon relaxing on the golden sand or browsing the Cavill Avenue shopping strip. Watch the sunset over the Gold Coast hinterland from the hotel terrace.

Accommodation: 4-star beachfront resort in Surfers Paradise

Gold Coast Theme Park Day

Enjoy an exhilarating full day at one of the Gold Coast's world-famous theme parks — choose from Dreamworld, Sea World, or Warner Bros. Movie World. Thrill-seekers can tackle roller coasters and water rides, while those seeking a more relaxed pace can enjoy animal encounters and live shows. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.

Accommodation: 4-star beachfront resort in Surfers Paradise

Gold Coast to Cairns

Transfer to Gold Coast Airport for your flight to Cairns in tropical Far North Queensland. Upon arrival, explore the vibrant Cairns Esplanade and take a dip in the free saltwater lagoon. Wander through the Cairns Night Markets in the evening for local crafts and tropical street food.

Accommodation: 4-star resort in Cairns

Great Barrier Reef Cruise

Embark on the highlight of the trip — a full-day catamaran cruise to the outer Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel among vibrant coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays. Non-swimmers can view the reef from a glass-bottom boat or semi-submersible. Enjoy a gourmet buffet lunch on board before returning to Cairns.

Accommodation: 4-star resort in Cairns

Daintree Rainforest Exploration

Journey north to the ancient Daintree Rainforest, one of the oldest tropical rainforests on Earth. Cross the Daintree River by cable ferry and explore the lush canopy on guided boardwalks with a naturalist guide. Visit Cape Tribulation where the rainforest meets the reef, and enjoy a tropical fruit tasting along the way. Return to Cairns for a farewell dinner.

Accommodation: 4-star resort in Cairns

Departure from Cairns

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before your transfer to Cairns Airport. Depending on your flight time, take a last stroll along the Esplanade or pick up souvenirs from local shops. Depart with memories of Australia's magnificent East Coast.