Australian East Coast Tour

On arrival, you will be met by a private driver outside customs exit and delivered to your Sydney accommodation.

Sydney, Australia’s most iconic city, is a vibrant hub of culture, beauty, and history. Home to nearly 20% of the country's population, it’s also Australia’s largest city. Perched along the stunning east coast, Sydney boasts an enviable mix of world-famous landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, alongside pristine white-sand beaches like Bondi and Manly. With a rich tapestry of history, art, and diverse culinary delights, Sydney offers something for every traveller, from sun-seekers and food lovers to adventure enthusiasts.

Step aboard a modern 78ft cruiser to begin your stunning Sydney Harbour Dinner Cruise. Designed with luxury and superb comfort in mind and with plenty of room on board, expansive main, upper, and sun decks offer 360-degree views of all the harbour’s iconic attractions as you sail past. The Sydney Harbour is photogenic at any time, but sunset is particularly special, and once the sun goes down, the gleaming cityscape comes alive in glittering lights. This dinner cruise allows you to experience the harbour from both beautiful perspectives.
This dinner experience is a long, lavish affair, with generous meals showcasing locally sourced and regionally influenced delicacies, paired with an expansive collection of beers, wine, soft drinks, tea, or coffee.

Often mistaken as Australia's capital city, Sydney is a vibrant coastal city with plenty to see and do. Starting in Circular Quay you will catch your first views of the two big icons, Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. From here you can catch one of the quintessential harbour ferries over to Manly Beach or Taronga Zoo, catching a glimpse of Kirribilli House, the Prime Minister's official Sydney residence, on the way over. Kirribilli is also home to one of Sydney's oldest markets at the Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre twice a month. It is known for its stalls of vintage clothing, arts, delicious street food and its lively community atmosphere - so if you are in town on a market day, you can't miss it. For a relaxing end to your day of exploration, your dinner options are aplenty. From high-end restaurants around Circular Quay that offer amazing views, to the Chinatown food courts and a broad range of eateries at Barangaroo, you will be spoiled for choice.

Step inside an iconic landmark. The Sydney Opera House is one of the world’s most recognisable landmarks and this is your chance to truly get up-close. Run your hands over the world-famous shell tiles, take a seat in the elegant custom-made white birch timber chairs and marvel at the vaulted ceilings. Visit areas off-limits to the public and capture photographs from rare vantage points. Explore theatres and foyers where more than 1600 concerts, operas, dramas and ballets take place each year. 

Be touched by the most ancient human culture on earth in a 90-minute leisurely walkabout with an Aboriginal guide in The Rocks, and journey into DreamTime, the culture of Aboriginal People. Get inspired as you discover the oldest ecology, conservation, sustainability, astrology and spiritual beliefs on earth today. Connect with Australian skies, lands and waters, and the experiences of 'always walking Country'. Feel empowered by learning how to teach others to navigate Dreamtime pathways, whenever, in the city or out in the bush.

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range or ask our team for a suggestion. From compact economy to prestige SUVs. First time driving in Australia? Check out this helpful guide.

After departing Sydney through the leafy northern suburbs, take the scenic route to the Central Coast. A popular stop on the way is the Australian Reptile Park, where you can see an array of local animals and even feed a kangaroo or cuddle a koala.
Continuing along the highway, you should take some time to explore the area with towns like Terrigal, Avoca Beach and The Entrance which are home to long sandy beaches, popular surf breaks, and great cafes and restaurants.
Continue north, skirting Lake Macquarie, Australia's largest coastal saltwater lake before arriving into Newcastle, the second biggest city in NSW.

This experience includes an industry-first tasting and tour of the Shellar Door, a cruise out to the farm longlines on the scenic lower Hawkesbury River and an immersive pearl grading session inside the restricted-access Pearl Room. Follow the story of the Australian pearl from its ancient Indigenous beginnings through modern farming and grading techniques, all the way to the finished piece of unique pearl jewellery.

This full day journey follows the Pacific Highway north, through coastal national parks, across waterways and with plenty of detours available to small towns, all with their own charms. 
Stop into Port Macquarie to stretch your legs on the white sandy beaches and stop for lunch and pop into the Koala Hospital to learn about Australia's cutest inhabitants, the threats that they face, and the important conservation work done by the hospital's staff and volunteers.
If you're a country music fan, take a short detour into Kempsey, where a visit to the Slim Dusty Museum will give you an insight into the history of country music in Australia and local icon, Slim Dusty. Kempsey is also home to the Akubra hat factory, so for a truly authentic souvenir, a visit to the showroom is a must.
Continue another hour north to your destination, Coffs Harbour. Grab a photo with the famous Big Banana, symbolic of one of the regions largest economic drivers, the tropical fruit industry. With gorgeous beaches and spectacular lookouts, this is a great place to put your feet up and relax.

Unlike the usual aquarium viewing through glass, at Irukandji you can meet the wildlife, pet them, feed them and even share the water with them! Wade with into the shallow water of the tropical lagoon in bare feet, being surrounded by many curious and friendly sharks & rays. Wearing your own clothes, you will mostly stay dry with only your feet and legs becoming wet. Stepping into the water with the animals, is a whole new level of excitement, fear and admiration.

This 2-hour tour takes guests on a cultural journey showcasing the local Gumbaynggirr language, bush tucker and Dreaming stories while walking easy grades through the Orara East State Forest. Your tour guides are all Gumbaynggirr or Aboriginal people who have strong ties to Gumbaynggirr country. Throughout your tour they will teach you about local Gumbaynggirr stories and language, and even help you find bush delicacies that you can sample as you bask in the ambience of the panoramic views, uniquely beautiful rainforest flora, and tranquil sounds of native fauna.

Today's drive will cover about 240km up the Pacific Coast, leaving you plenty of opportunities to stop off and take in the sights. Before heading off from Coffs Harbour, head to the Solitary Islands Marine Park to explore the surrounding waters on a snorkelling tour. These waters are home to diverse coral, colourful fish, turtles, and dolphins.
From Coffs Harbour, snake along the coast for 120km until you reach signs for Yamba. This sleepy hamlet has beaches that rival those of Byron Bay but remains a little more low-profile. Take a stroll on one of the beautiful beaches, or head to the Pacific Hotel for some great views.
From Yamba, return to the Pacific Highway and continue to head north. If you want an opportunity to spot a second "big thing" today, take a short detour into Ballina to see the Big Prawn. Back on the highway, it's just 30km (18 miles) further to your final destination, Byron Bay.

Byron Bay is Australia's easternmost town and is home to beautiful beaches, lush rainforest, luxury retreats and some fantastic restaurants. People have always been drawn to the region for its fantastic surf, but today it also caters to those looking for a slow-paced break.
Take advantage of some of the town's beautiful walks, such as the Cape Byron track - the perfect place to watch the sunrise. This 3.7km loop takes you through rainforest and shear cliffs with panoramic views of the region. If you're there between June and November keep your eyes peeled for whales migrating along the coast.

Delta Kay, an Arakwal Bundjalung woman enthusiastic about sharing Aboriginal culture, leads this Aboriginal Tour where guests can gain insight into the pre-colonial Aboriginal way of life, including land care and preservation. Along with teaching guests some Bundjalung language, on this tour Delta also provides explanations on local land formations, bush food and other Aboriginal artefacts.

The Night Vision Walk is a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Imagine exploring the Australian rainforest at night, searching for nocturnal wildlife. Instead of wielding a torch, you’re incognito, wearing special night vision goggles. This is military grade technology that lets you see animals as they go about their business.

The drive from Byron Bay to Surfers Paradise will see you crossing state lines from New South Wales to Queensland. This short drive will take little more than an hour, so have a leisurely start to your morning in Byron Bay before hitting the road.
Travel past Coolangatta, a surf and diving mecca revered for its unpretentious culture and bountiful array of aquatic life. Continue through the Gold Coast, famed for its white-sand beaches, theme parks, and shopping. At the northern end of the Gold Coast you will reach the iconic Surfers Paradise. Take a surf lesson, or, for a bird's eye view of the city and surrounding beaches, head up the 270m tall (886 foot) Q1 building.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a heritage-listed zoological garden. The multitude of events, shows, and attractions include dingo encounters, koalas, kangaroos, wombats, free-flight bird shows, and the feeding of the park's massive saltwater crocodile. You will step back in time with a visit to Lost Valley and a journey through the ancient supercontinent Gondwana. Here, you will experience exotic Australian wildlife, including Cotton Top Tamarins, Red Panda, Capybaras, and four Ring Tail Lemurs. You can also visit the Extinction Trail, where you step back in time and learn about prehistoric times when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. The park also contains a serious aspect of its work and exhibits, and behind the scenes includes a state-of-the-art veterinary and rehabilitation hospital. The Sanctuary is a non-profit organization that invests in world famous Wildlife Research and Conservation Projects, to help save some amazing species from extinction. Their world famous Wildlife Hospital is one of the busiest in the world; the care and treatment are funded from park admissions, visitors, and donations from the public. You are welcome to visit the hospital and see the day-to-day workings from a viewing deck. Enjoy your day seeing the wildlife and learning about everything from Koalas to Wombats and Reptiles to the ring-tailed lemur.

Experience an exciting night time tour with stargazing, delicious dessert at a local restaurant and a fully guided rainforest walk to the waterfall. This is a great tour for you to discover the bio-network of rainforests and to experience nocturnal wildlife spotting. Journey to the peaceful and picturesque Gold Coast hinterland. A local mountain-top restaurant awaits you to serve tea, coffee or hot chocolate accompanied by a selection of delicious cakes.
With the knowledge of your guide, discover the lush forests of Tamborine National Park and spot native nocturnal wildlife. Everyone has a flashlight to light the walkway. At the end of the trail emerges Curtis Falls, a subtropical waterfall and habitat to the stars of the show, the ever-fascinating, glow worms.

The Gold Coast's star attraction is its white sand beaches, including the world-famous stretch of sand at Surfers Paradise. Beyond the beaches, a the Gold Coast boasts Australia's tallest building - the Q1, a booming culinary scene, rainforest walks and the Gold Coast's famous theme parks.

You will be taken on a guided tour to experience the beauty of Australia's natural flora and fauna. On this wildlife walk, you’ll encounter native animals, such as wild kangaroos, koalas, and others. Take a relaxed stroll through the untouched eco forest and admire the towering gum trees, paperbarks, and tropical ferns. Keep your camera ready to capture the natural beauty around you. Finish the tour with a 1.5 hour cruise on a whisper quiet Duffy Electric Boat. Let the boat and your senses take you on a peaceful ride as you glide silently through the Gold Coast's pristine waterways. Keep an eye out for dolphins, sea eagles, turtles, and other marine life on this wonderful journey. 

Be collected from your accommodation at pre-dawn and taken to the launch site to witness the inflation of the balloon. Once inflated you'll be amazed at its height, standing 10 stories tall. Your guide will have you in the balloon ready for launch as the sun is coming up. Feel at peace as you look out at the rolling hills, open fields, and stunning country land as the sun rises and you gently float across the skies, overlooking the famous Gold Coast Hinterland and Scenic Rim. As your flight is coming to an end the pilot will slowly guide the ballon to the landing point where the fun continues - once you have landed, experience the pack down of the balloon and come together with the pilot and crew, share a toast with a glass of bubbly to celebrate the fantastic flight you had before you receive your commemorative certificate! Enjoy an exclusive boutique vineyard hot breakfast to end the beautiful morning in the sky.

The Scenic Rim driving route between Gold Coast and Brisbane is one of spectacular beauty, bursting with stunning mountain ranges and unique topography. Nestled in an ancient volcanic caldera, its abundance of flora, fauna, scenery and local produce is not to be missed.
Begin your journey by making your way westbound out of the city towards Nerang, and from there carry on west to Canungra. Once you reach Canungra, you will head south on Lamington National Park Road.
This UNESCO World Heritage site will take your breath away with its exceptional beauty. Home to rainforest, ancient trees, deep valleys and streams, you can immerse yourself in its 160km of walking trails. If you are looking for an easy walk, head for the Centenary Track which should take roughly 30 minutes. If you're feeling a bit more invigorated, carry on to the Morans Falls Track from Centenary Track for a 2 hour return journey.
After you've had your fix of short walks, head back to Canungra before heading north towards Tamborine Mountain. Home to a Rainforest Skywalk, Treetop Challenge, and brewery, there is something for everyone in the family. The plateau is the product of lava flow from the Mount Warning volcanic eruption 22 million years ago and prior to European settlement, it was inhabited by Aboriginal People for tens of thousands of years. Today, it is celebrated for its natural beauty, exceptional fresh produce and abundance of outdoor activities.
Drive north towards Brisbane and if you're still hungry, Yatala Pies are a Queensland icon, making meat pies for over 130 years and definitely worth a quick stop. From here, get back on the motorway and follow it all the way into Brisbane.

Brisbane is a hub of activities and attractions. With its unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, Brisbane offers something for everybody. Starting the day early, one could begin by exploring the South Bank Parklands, a sprawling riverside precinct filled with lush gardens, walking paths, and stunning views of the city skyline. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Brisbane River, visit the iconic Wheel of Brisbane for a panoramic view, or enjoy a relaxing breakfast at one of the charming riverside cafes. Next, consider delving into the cultural scene by visiting the Queensland Cultural Centre, which houses the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA). Art enthusiasts can immerse themselves in a diverse range of local and international artworks, while history buffs can explore the Queensland Museum or the Museum of Brisbane. For a taste of the city's history, a visit to the Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park is a must. The Story Bridge Adventure Climb offers breathtaking views of the city from its summit, and the Kangaroo Point Cliffs provide a perfect spot for picnics. Afterwards, make your way to the vibrant Fortitude Valley, known for its trendy boutiques, bustling markets, and eclectic mix of cafes and restaurants. Explore the Brunswick Street Mall, discover unique fashion finds, and indulge in a delicious lunch at one of the local eateries. To complete the day, a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is highly recommended. As the world's oldest and largest koala sanctuary, visitors can cuddle koalas, hand-feed kangaroos, and get up close to a variety of Australian wildlife.

A South Bank icon, Streets Beach is a must-visit while you’re in Brisbane. It is Australia’s only inner-city, man-made beach, and it boasts a sparkling lagoon surrounded by white, sandy beaches and sub-tropical plants. It is the perfect antidote to the corporate bustle of the CBD across the river. Streets Beach, with its pristine powder white sand, lifeguards, and permanent huddle of sun-kissed bathers, offers a great spot to cool down and escape the heat. South Bank is also home to a host of free-to-use, public barbeque spots, so why not plan a full day out and make the most of what's on offer in the city's parklands? Streets Beach, Aquativity, and the Boat Pool are free to use and are patrolled by qualified lifeguards all year round.

This popular cruise has been taking visitors to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary for over 60 years and is a "must-do" experience while in Brisbane. The cruise travels through the city's most historic landscapes, iconic attractions, historical homesites and interesting wildlife habitats as you listen to an entertaining and informative commentary. Enjoy 3 hours exploring Lone Pine, before re-joining the cruise for a relaxing return journey on the river back to the city.

This incredible day trip includes a guided snorkel tour through the magical Tangalooma Shipwrecks of Moreton Island. The crystal clear waters that surround the wrecks are filled with over 200 species of fish and 130 species of coral, not to mention 3 different species of marine sea turtle, dolphins, and even resident Wobbegong sharks and stingrays. This guided tour begins at the Tangalooma beachfront, with a short boat ride to the wrecks, with all snorkel gear provided.

Explore more of Brisbane before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

Farewell Australia today. If there is more of Australia or New Zealand you would like to explore, talk to your sales consultant about planning your next stop!