Days
8
Price from
1516AUD
SB8_ATA_2023

From the vibrant city of Sydney to the sun-kissed beaches of Brisbane, soak up the best of Australia’s East Coast on our 8-day Tour with like-minded travellers and a knowledgeable local tour guide.

From surfing the world class waves of Byron Bay to wine tasting in the Hunter Valley region, our action-packed itinerary blends city thrills, natural wonders, and laid-back coastal vibes.


Start
Sydney, Australia
Finish
Brisbane, Australia
Destinations
East Coast,New South Wales,Queensland
Style
Shared Dorms
Theme
Code
SB8
Physical rating
Medium
Ages
18+
Group size
Min 8, Max 22

Why you’ll love this trip?

  • Discover your inner wine connoisseur at Hunter Valley and taste award-winning samples fresh from the vineyard
  • Catch a glimpse of local wildlife and snap the amazing views at Port Stephens
  • Get a closer look at Australia’s laziest (and cutest) marsupials at the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital
  • Visit the historic town of Bellingen
  • Connect and gain an understanding of the incredible Aboriginal Culture through a bush walk and cultural experience in Coffs Harbour
  • Centre yourself with a yoga class in laid-back Byron Bay and enjoy a couple of days to explore at your own pace
  • Drop into the iconic Surfers Paradise and a local conservation park
  • Spend a night exploring the buzzing riverside city of Brisbane

Is this trip right for you?

  • You’ll travel with a driver/ guide (and get their insider knowledge) and a bunch of like-minded travellers (your new lifelong friends) and explore all the amazing places Aussie has to offer!
  • If you’re eager to explore diverse landscapes, try new activities, and step out of your comfort zone, this trip offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
  • If you’re a nature enthusiast who wants to experience Australia’s unique wildlife, stunning beaches and lush rainforests, this journey has been tailored for you.
  • If you’re curious about the local culture, history, and hidden gems, having knowledgeable local guides will provide you with authentic insights that enhance your travel experience.

Itinerary

Your epic East Coast journey begins in Sydney, where you’ll have a full day to explore the city’s wonders. After checking into your cozy hostel, head to Circular Quay and soak in iconic views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Tonight, join us for a pizza feast at the hostel bar, where you’ll meet your guide and your new travel buddies.

Accommodation

Wake Up Sydney or similar

Optional activities

Bondi to Coogee beach walk, visit Darling Harbour, explore King Street Wharf, Royal Botanic Gardens, Taronga Zoo, walk around the Opera House and the Rocks, the oldest area of Sydney. You can also take the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly.

Meal options

Head down to the hostel bar for Pizza Night

Time to hit the road and leave the harbour city behind. We’ll start the day with a delightful visit to the Hunter Valley wine region for some wine tasting and chocolate indulgence. Then, off to Port Stephens for breathtaking landscapes and wildlife encounters. Get ready for an authentic Aussie BBQ dinner with your newfound friends.

Accommodation

Surfside Hostel

Meals

BBQ Dinner

Meal options

Self-cater, local cafes, restaurants

Included activity

Wine and Cheese Tasting

Free activities

Wildlife spotting at our accommodation, beach swim

Wake up to the sound of waves and choose your adventure: sleep in, hit the beach, or try thrilling sand-boarding on the Stockton Sand Dunes. We’ll then head to the top of Tomaree Head for jaw-dropping coastal views and a chance to spot dolphins and whales (seasonal). Onward to Port Macquarie, where we’ll visit the Koala Hospital and cuddle up to these cuties.

Accommodation

Port Macquarie YHA or similar

Meals
  • Breakfast
Meal options

Self-cater, local cafes, restaurants

Included activity

Koala Hospital visit

Free activities

Sleep in, swim, relax on the beach, Headland Walk

Optional paid activities

Sand-boarding

Time to set course for Byron Bay, the ultimate surfer’s paradise. Along the way, we’ll stop in the charming village of Bellingen for lunch and an enlightening Aboriginal cultural experience. At “Niigi Niigi” in the Orara East State Forest, immerse yourself in the rich Aboriginal heritage through stories, music, and more. Arriving in Byron Bay, we’ll show you around town.

Accommodation

The Surf House or similar

Meals
  • Breakfast
Meal options

Self-cater, local cafes, restaurants, BBQ at the rooftop of the hostel

Included activities

Historic town and Aboriginal Cultural Experience

“Cheer up, slow down, and chill out” – that’s the motto of Byron Bay, and today is all about embracing it. Start with a refreshing morning yoga session on the rooftop, then explore the town at your own pace. Stroll to Cape Byron Lighthouse for stunning views or take up surfing lessons to feel like a true Aussie beach bum. The day is yours to unwind and soak in the laid-back vibes.

Accommodation

The Surf House or similar

Included activity

Morning yoga class

Meal options

Self-cater, local cafes, restaurants

Optional paid activities

Surf lesson, dolphin kayak, snorkel or dive at Julian Rocks, skydive

Free activities

Walk to the lighthouse, swim, relax on the beach, check out the shops and cafes, free surfboard hire

Guess what? Another free day in Byron Bay. Keep crossing items off your bucket list or simply indulge in the town’s fantastic atmosphere. Try out more surfing, hit the beach, or roam the markets for a taste of local delights. Byron Bay is a foodie paradise, so don’t miss the chance to savour delicious vegan options.

Accommodation

Surfhouse or similar.

Meal options

Self-cater, local cafes, restaurants. We recommend trying one of the many great vegan options!

Optional paid activities

Surf lesson, dolphin kayak, snorkel or dive, skydive.

Free activities

Walk to the lighthouse, swim, relax on the beach, check out the shops and cafes.

Time to say goodbye to Byron and hop on the bus to Surfers Paradise in Queensland. Marvel at the scenic views as we cross the border and catch a glimpse of wild kangaroos at a local nature reserve. Then, off to Brisbane, where you’ll have a night to explore the city’s buzzing riverside scene. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and make the most of your last night with the group.

Accommodation

Selina Brisbane or similar

Meal options

Self-cater, local cafes, restaurants

Free activities

Surfers Paradise, kangaroo spotting, catch the Brisbane city ferry

As your adventure comes to an end, bid farewell to your newfound mates and cherish the memories you’ve made. You’re leaving with a heart full of fantastic experiences, a deeper understanding of Australia’s unique culture, and, of course, a classic Aussie lingo – G’DAY MATES! Until we meet again.

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Important notes

  • Luggage is limited to one piece per person with a maximum weight of 20kg plus a day pack

  • A basic level of fitness is required for medium length walk

  • Accommodation is in 4-8 shared dorms in a range of hostels, backpacker resorts, eco-lodges.

  • 3 meals are included. We make regular supermarket stops so you can self-cater for other meals, or there are usually quite a few cafe/restaurant options in each location.

  • Subject to minimum numbers

Essential trip information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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