Australian Escape
15 days from £2,899
Trip Photos
Sun, sea and surf, from Sydney to Cairns
Nowhere says ‘beach life’ quite like Australia, and from the sun-kissed sands of Bondi to the tropical shores of Cairns, the East Coast does it best. Travel the length of the coast over 15 amazing days, stopping at beaches, reefs, and rainforests. Stroll down the whitest sand in the world in Jervis Bay, take a 4WD tour of freshwater lakes and epic sand dunes on K'gari, and spend the day on Whitehaven Beach – officially one of the world’s most beautiful. Oh, and did we mention the day you’ll spend snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef? It doesn’t get better than this.
Highlights include
Itinerary
Day 1: Hello Sydney
Arrive in sun-drenched Sydney. Drop your bags and head out to explore the city, or just relax by the hotel pool after your flight. This evening, meet your group for a delicious welcome dinner and your first taste of Sydney's vibrant nightlife.
Day 2: Jervis Bay
We're up early today on a full-day adventure to Jervis Bay, famed for its dazzling beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife. Sink your toes into the world's whitest sand on Hyams Beach, spot some kangaroos, wallabies and dolphins, and tuck into a picnic before heading back to Sydney.
Day 3: Sydney Free Day
Enjoy a free day in Sydney. Dine on a classic Aussie brunch, bronze yourself on Bondi, explore the lush Botanical Gardens, take a cruise round the harbour, or explore iconic landmarks from the Opera House to the Harbour Bridge. Tonight, go large in Sydney's cocktail bars and backpacker pubs.
Day 4: Surfers Paradise
Take the short flight to the golden shores of Surfers Paradise. Hit the famous blonde beach, get a bird's eye view on the city's high rise heart from the Skypoint Observation Deck, or give your credit card a workout in the malls. Let loose later in Surfers' hottest bars and clubs.
Day 5: Island Boat Trip
Take a boat trip to Moreton Island, home to some of the most spectacular beaches in Queensland. Spend your day snorkelling over shipwrecks teeming with marine life, kayaking, and paddle boarding on the bluest water you've ever seen. Sail back with salt in your hair after the most amazing day.
Day 6: Noosa
Travel north to lovely Noosa. Boasting jaw-dropping beaches, sparkling lakes, and tropical everglades, it's no wonder it's one of the Gold Coast's top destinations. Spend the afternoon exploring the town, meeting the friendly locals, and relaxing into the beach town pace of life.
Day 7: K'Gari
Take a ferry to the largest sand island in the world. Known for its freshwater lakes, lush rainforest, and rolling dunes, K'gari is an Aussie must do. Take a 4WD tour to the island's most breathtaking attractions, including the bright blue waters of Lake McKenzie, before heading back to Noosa.
Day 8: Noosa & Night Train
Today's yours to enjoy Noosa at your own pace. Take in far-reaching coastal views from Noosa National Park, browse the local boutiques, canoe through the Everglades, or just chill on the gorgeous sandy beaches. Then board a sleeper train to Airlie Beach at around 4pm.
Day 9: Airlie Beach
Wake up as the train rolls into Airlie Beach and drop your bag before exploring the town. More than just the gateway to the dazzling Whitsundays, Airlie has its own gorgeous beaches, the Airlie Beach Lagoon, bustling markets, and a range of purse-friendly bars and restaurants.
Day 10: Whitehaven Beach
We're headed to the stunning Whitsundays today for a full-day cruise to Whitehaven Beach, one of the most beautiful stretches of sand in the world. Snorkel in crystalline waters, sun yourself on deck, enjoy a picnic lunch, and pad down the pristine shoreline. Sail back to buzzing Airlie for the evening.
Day 11: Airlie Beach Fun
You've got a free day to enjoy Airlie. Take a dip in the Lagoon, jet-ski round the harbour, hire a stand-up paddle board, or just bum around on the beach. We'll enjoy a group dinner tonight before a last night in Airlie's bars and pubs.
Day 12: Train to Cairns
Stock up on snacks and download your favourite playlists before boarding the train to Cairns this morning. It's a 12-hour journey through the scenic heart of Queensland so just sit back and enjoy the ride. Arrive in Cairns and check into your hotel before heading out to explore the vibrant city.
Day 13: Great Barrier Reef
It's a bucket list big one today with a full-day snorkelling tour on the one-and-only Great Barrier Reef. Swim with tropical fish, marvel at colourful coral, enjoy a tasty buffet lunch on deck, and keep your eyes peeled for mantas and turtles. Sail back to Cairns as the sun dips below the horizon.
Day 14: Cairns Free Day
Explore Cairns at your own pace today. Stroll along the boardwalk, pick up some souvenirs in the markets, explore the lush Botanical Gardens, or see some more marine life at the Cairns Aquarium. Toast to your amazing adventure over a farewell dinner tonight.
Day 15: Goodbye Australia
Say your goodbyes and check out of our Cairns hotel for 10am before making your way to the airport, or continuing your travels Down Under. We've loved having you!
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Flights
To get a flight quote use the buttons below or call our fantastic flights team on 01892 277037.
Most expensive: £1,094 October, 2024
Extra information
This trip begins on day 1 in Sydney. You’ll need to fly into Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) and to make your own way to our starting accommodation in the heart of the city. There are no activities planned until a welcome dinner tonight so arrive at a time that suits you. Airport transfers are not included but it’s easy to make your way into the city centre. The Airport Link Train whizzes you into the centre in 13 minutes, or you can get a taxi, which takes around 20 minutes.
The trip ends on day 15 in Cairns. Return airport transfers are not included but your tour guide can help you book onward travel. Cairns Airport (CNS) is easily reached by taxi in 10 - 15 minutes depending on traffic.
The maximum group size is 20.
This trip is designed for travellers aged 18-35.