New South Wales
Northern Territory
Queensland
South Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
Western Australia
North Island
South Island

Sydney to Cairns Road Trip Itinerary | East Coast Reefs and Beaches Tour 

Cairns beach shorefront

Buckle up and get ready for an epic Australian adventure!

The open road beckons on this thrilling road trip from Sydney all the way to the tropical paradise of Cairns. Get set to soak up the sun and uncover hidden gems along the way on this epic 15 Day East Coast Reefs and Beaches Tour!

Perfect for solo travellers and for those travelling with friends, this trip is alongside a group of up to 20 other 18-35s from all over the world (plus your Ultimate East Coast Group Leader).

Over two weeks, you will travel over 2000km via plane, train and car! Between Sydney and Cairns, experience the very best of Australia's East Coast, including Byron Bay, Noosa, Noosa National Park, K'Gari (Fraser Island), Lake Mckenzie,  Airlie Beach, Whitehaven Beach, Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef.

So, pack your bags, roll down the windows, and let's hit the highway as we chase the sun from Sydney to Cairns! 

Sydney to Cairns Itinerary:

Days 1-3: Sydney

Welcome to Sydney! Spend your first three days in Sydney, experiencing its vibrant culture and surroundings. Upon arrival, enjoy a welcome dinner with fellow travellers and your tour guide.

On Day 2, explore Jervis Bay's stunning beaches, national parks, and wildlife on a full-day tour. Then day 3 offers a free day to discover Sydney at your own pace, with personalised suggestions from your guide, including iconic landmarks, optional city tours, or a visit to Taronga Zoo.

 Days 4-5: Sydney to Byron Bay

On Day 4, fly to Byron Bay, a laid-back town famous for its surf culture and vibrant music scene. Relax on the beach or explore by bike, and visit the Cape Byron Lighthouse for stunning views.

Next, Day 5 features a guided tour through Byron Bay's hinterland, showcasing the region's natural beauty, history, and cultural richness. Explore waterfalls, rainforests, and farmland before returning to Byron Bay for the evening.

Days 6-8: Byron Bay to Noosa

Travel from Byron Bay to Noosa on Day 6, enjoying a scenic 3-hour 30-minute drive through Queensland's Sunshine Coast. Explore Noosa's charming town, beaches, and national park.

On Day 7, embark on a captivating K'gari (Fraser Island) day trip, experiencing diverse landscapes and learning about its Aboriginal history.

Finally, day 8 offers a free day in Noosa to relax, visit the national park, or browse local shops before boarding an overnight train sleeper to Airlie Beach in the late afternoon.

Days 9-11: Noosa to Airlie Beach & Whitehaven

Arrive in Airlie Beach on Day 9 and enjoy leisure time exploring the town, markets, or lagoon, with optional activities like a Great Barrier Reef scenic flight. Day 10 takes you to the stunning Whitehaven Beach for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing, followed by a picnic lunch.

Your final day in Airlie Beach gives you another free day, with options to sail the Whitsunday Islands or relax poolside, culminating in a group dinner to celebrate your journey.

Days 12-15: Airlie Beach to Cairns & the Great Barrier Reef

On Day 12, embark on a 12-hour scenic journey from Whitsundays to Cairns, with numerous stops to enjoy Queensland's breathtaking landscapes.

Then, on day 13, jump into a full-day snorkelling tour of the iconic Great Barrier Reef, complete with a buffet lunch on board. Spend a free day in Cairns on Day 14, exploring local attractions, before joining a farewell dinner with your fellow travellers.

Finally, Day 15 marks the end of your tour at 10am, leaving you free to extend your stay in Cairns or continue exploring Australia.

AUTHOR PROFILE
Chyna Hayden

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Posts

Brisbane Itinerary: Three-Day Brisbane City Escape

Day 1: Hello Summer Sun Rise & Shine for a Sweet Escape: ‘Rise and shine’ takes on a whole new meaning when you embark on a bakery trail starting with Sprout, offering delicious artisanal delights. Follow it up with a visit to Agnes Bakery for delectable pastries and conclude with a TikTok famous cookie from […]

fraser-island-tour-2

What to expect from K'gari (Fraser Island) in November

If you’re visiting K’gari in November, you’ll get the best out of the island’s lush rainforest walks. That’s due to the weather during this month giving you a pleasant climate that’s ideal for exploring the island’s natural beauty without the intense heat of the upcoming summer. With temperatures ranging from 21°c to 28°c, it’s a […]

fraser-island-tour-2

What to expect from K'gari (Fraser Island) in October

K'gari in October – just like any other time of year – is a true paradise, particularly for those who want the tropical island experience. With mild spring temperatures ranging from 19°c to 26°c and not a lot of rainfall, October gives you the perfect conditions for an evening on the water. Sail Away on […]

fraser-island-tour-2

What to expect from K'gari (Fraser Island) in September

K'gari in September is definitely a photographer's utopia. This month in spring offers temperatures ranging from 17°c to 25°c and clear skies, providing perfect lighting and weather conditions for capturing the island's natural beauty. A K'gari Snapshot During September in K’gari, the low humidity and minimal rainfall give you clear, crisp shots and it’s perfect […]

fraser-island-tour-2

What to expect from K'gari (Fraser Island) in August

If you’re looking for a hiking experience you’ll always remember, K'gari in August will bring a smile to your face. This month is perfect for outdoor adventures, and with temperatures ranging from 15°c to 23°c, the cooler weather makes hiking more comfortable, so you can enjoy the island's many landscapes and natural beauty without breaking […]

fraser-island-tour-2

What to expect from K'gari (Fraser Island) in July

K'gari in July is a truly spectacular location for whale and dolphin watching. As part of the warm QLD winter, July offers some seriously pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from around 15°c to 22°c and minimal rainfall. It’s an awesome time for outdoor activities and marine wildlife spotting. Spotting Marine Wildlife July is the […]

Social Media

Accepted Payments

Members of

chevron-down