East Australia Tours & Trips
What if Australia's east coast delivered everything you’ve dreamed about? It does! Fraser Island and Whitsundays sailing are mind-blowing. Picture pristine beaches, incredible marine life, and coastal landscapes that define paradise. Australia’s east coast packs the country's highlights into one stunning stretch, including the iconic Sydney Harbor Bridge as a must visit.
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Kirsten • traveled in February, 2025
ABSOLUT AMAZING TOUR, especially our Tour-Guide Cara, almost not only best driver and organizer, but more a friend, small group-Tour with lovely Hotels/Resorts on top level, meet wonderful people,,., so best tour in Australia so far for me, and it was the 5th time I travel Australia because a part of family living here and I love Australia - so I am qualified to say that!
Best Of The East Coast – 16 Day Boutique Tour - L
LukeWilday • traveled in April
Had a top notch week with intro travel, Ben was also an awesome group leader. Honestly feels like I’ve been in Oz for a month with the amount of things we experienced within just a week. The perfect introduction to Australia. I started off thinking have I made the right choice to come here and felt a little alienated on the other side of the planet, to feeling at home. Activities this week were awesome, Port Stephens was a favourite me. Loved the harbour cruise, but could do with being a lot longer than it was. We jelled perfectly as a group and I feel Ben was a big part of that happening. He got us all involved to begin with, having jokes, getting us dancing together and it broke the ice perfectly. From that moment it felt like I’d already known everyone for a week already. Ben kept the energy high all week and for a 19 year old lad I was very impressed with his confident ability to get the group going, deliver informative talks and make everyone feel at home. By doing just the little things. For example I noticed he knew everyone’s name and plans without hesitation within the first day. It was also great to have Dean alongside, I know he will make a fantastic group leader and I’m glad he’s now got his shot. Congrats Dean and thanks Ben and all of Intro travel!
Oz Intro - S
Sven • traveled in November
I had a great 6 weeks trip with the Ultimate squad! First I had the Ultimate Oz introduction week in Sydney. We went to base camp and I met amazing people! After the introduction week I went straight on to the 5 weeks East Coast trip, wich was amazing! We did everything that you have to do on the East Coast of Australia! From Fraser Island to Magnetic island! Our tour guide Shana was so much fun! Had an amazing time with her and she helped us with a lot of things! Like helping with stuff for after the trip if you didn’t know what to do. Thanks Ultimate team for this great experience!
East Coast Explorer: 5 Week | ULTIMATE
Table of contents
- The best East Australia tour packages
- Travel East Australia your way
- Best tour companies for East Australia tours
- Popular East Australia Cruise Ships
- Discover East Australia tours for every budget
- East Australia tours for every type of group
- Top East Australia travel itineraries to fit your plans
- Demographics
- Best time to visit East Australia
- Contact our East Australia travel experts
- What our customers ask about East Australia Tours & Trips
The best East Australia tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaEast Australia travel expert at TourRadar
Oz Intro
1,536 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Her sparkle enables you to have the best time whilst also feeling safe and comfortable exploring a new environment.”
Heather, traveled in October
From Sydney's Bondi Beach through Byron Bay's surf culture to Brisbane's waterfront, the east coast comes alive. Dolphin spotting at Cape Byron Lighthouse, mangrove paddling in Surfers Paradise, and premium beachfront hostel stays create the perfect adventure.
Duration 10 days Destinations Sydney, Byron Bay, Surfers Paradise, Brisbane Age Range Ages 18-45 Operator INTRO Travel From
- NZ$1,599
Brisbane to Cairns Experience: Sand Dunes & the Whitsundays
30 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Fantastic trip. Very well organised and better than I had expected.”
ClareBoyle, traveled in March
Queensland's coastal gems shine with K'gari's sand dunes, Noosa's coastal trails, and Whitsundays ocean rafting. Multi-share hostel stays, overnight train travel, and optional Great Barrier Reef diving complete the experience.
Duration 10 days Destinations Brisbane, Fraser Island, Mackay, Whitsunday Islands, Airlie Beach, Cairns Age Range Ages 18-39 Operator G Adventures From $3,899
25% Off- NZ$2,924You save $975
Sydney's Opera House begins this grand coastal journey, leading to Byron Bay's lighthouse trail and Whitsundays sailing. Surf breaks at Spot X, K'gari (Fraser Island) adventures, and Great Barrier Reef snorkeling fill 14 nights. Accommodations with meals cost approx. $220/day.
Duration 15 days Destinations Sydney, Bondi, Byron Bay, Noosa, Fraser Island, Sunshine Coast, Rainbow Beach, Brisbane, Airlie Beach, WhitsundaysSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-39 Operator TruTravels From $5,773
10% Off- NZ$5,196You save $577
Best of Cairns, Great Barrier Reef & Daintree (10 destinations)
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We managed to do everything we had on the schedule under the very unpleasant conditions.”
Sylvia, traveled in March
Tropical wonders abound: Kuranda's Skyrail glides above ancient rainforests, Solar Whisper's Daintree River cruise reveals wildlife, and Great Barrier Reef snorkeling amazes visitors. Aboriginal cultural immersion at Mossman Gorge and Port Douglas stays round out the adventure.
Duration 5 days Destinations Cairns, Great Barrier Reef, Kuranda, Port Douglas, Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge, Mossman, Palm Cove Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From $3,330
25% Off- NZ$2,498You save $833
East Coast Explorer: 5 Week | ULTIMATE
106 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This trip would never have been the same without our incredible tour guide. I truly don't believe I would have experienced half as much.”
Dirk, traveled in November
This 36-day adventure from Sydney to Cairns showcases Australia's best. Byron Bay's waves, Fraser Island's beaches, Whitsundays' turquoise waters, and Great Barrier Reef snorkeling create unforgettable memories. Includes 33 nights accommodation and professional guides with 4.8 rating (100+ reviews).
Duration 36 days Destinations Sydney, Byron Bay, Surfers Paradise, Brisbane, Noosa, Rainbow Beach, Fraser Island, Whitsunday Islands, Airlie Beach, Magnetic IslandSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-35 Operator Ultimate Travel From
25% Off- NZ$6,323
Melbourne serves as the gateway to iconic sites including the 12 Apostles on Great Ocean Road and wildlife encounters at Moonlit Sanctuary. The tour features Phillip Island's famous penguin parade and wine tasting at Rochford Wines in the picturesque Yarra Valley.
Duration 6 days Destinations Melbourne Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Delightful Travel From
25% Off- NZ$2,473
East Coast Australia: 6 Week | ULTIMATE
75 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It was the most amazing time for me here in Australia. Everything was being taken care of by Ultimate and Eli, so for us the only thing what we had to do was have fun.”
Femke, traveled in March
The 43-day Australian adventure takes you from Sydney Opera House to the Great Barrier Reef. Catch waves at Byron Bay, sail through the Whitsundays, and stay at award-winning hostels. Includes guided tours and group activities.
Duration 43 days Destinations Sydney, Bondi Beach, Port Stephens, Byron Bay, Surfers Paradise, Brisbane, Noosa, Rainbow Beach, Fraser Island, Airlie BeachSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-35 Operator Ultimate Travel From
25% Off- NZ$7,340
【Cairns】& Port Douglas All-Inclusive 7 Days Touring Package
6 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour was well organized and the selection of food when offered was good.”
AYCAN, traveled in November
The natural wonders of East Australia range from Moore Reef's coral gardens to Daintree's ancient rainforest. Visitors ride Kuranda's historic railway, cruise Trinity Inlet's mangroves, and find Cape Tribulation's pristine beaches where reef meets rainforest.
Duration 7 days Destinations Cairns, Kuranda, Great Barrier Reef, Port Douglas, Daintree National Park, Cape Tribulation Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Delightful Travel From
25% Off- NZ$3,704
Oz East Coast Adventure 28 Days
49 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“From start to finish, our tour leader Katie was professional, knowledgeable, and made the whole experience so enjoyable.”
Daniella, traveled in July
The 28-day coastal odyssey leads from Sydney's Bondi Beach to Byron Bay's surf spots. Gold Coast's party scene, Brisbane's urban life, and K'Gari's sand dunes precede Whitsundays sailing and Great Barrier Reef snorkeling.
Duration 28 days Destinations Sydney, Byron Bay, Surfers Paradise, Brisbane, Rainbow Beach, Fraser Island, Airlie Beach, Whitsundays, Magnetic Island, Mission BeachSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-45 Operator INTRO Travel From
25% Off- NZ$6,199
10-Day Australia Starter Package - Private
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Hotel locations was perfect near city center, hotel is clean and perfect.”
Lilbeth, traveled in June
From Melbourne's cultural scenes to Sydney's iconic harbor and Cairns' tropical north, Australia's east coast beckons. Queen Victoria Market, Bondi Beach, and the Great Barrier Reef highlight this route with stays at selected 3-4 star hotels.
Duration 10 days Destinations Melbourne, Sydney, Cairns Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Vio Travel From $2,438
20% Off- NZ$1,950You save $488
Travel East Australia your way
More travel styles:
Best tour companies for East Australia tours
Based on what our travelers tell us, both UltimateOz and Intro Travel run really solid East Coast tours. People consistently mention how smoothly everything runs, how much the guides know their stuff and the great social vibe with other travelers. UltimateOz is particularly helpful for newcomers to Australia - they'll sort out practical things like your bank account and phone setup, which takes a lot of stress out of arriving. Intro Travel's 28-day route is quite comprehensive and includes everything you'd want to experience - you'll learn to surf at Byron Bay and drive 4x4s around Fraser Island, among other activities. If you're short on time or prefer more upscale accommodation, G Adventures runs a nice 3-day option along the Great Ocean Road and through the Grampians. You'll stay in quality hotels and enjoy proper sit-down meals rather than the typical backpacker fare. The route hits all the main spots and our travelers say it's well worth the higher price point for the comfort level. What's nice about all three companies is they've really nailed the balance between organized activities and free time to explore. The guides know when to step in with information and when to let the group do their own thing.
Popular East Australia Cruise Ships
Travel Marvel
PS Emmylou -- 4 night cruise Echuca Return (OWA)
5 cruises
Murray River Paddlesteamers
PS Emmylou
4 cruises
APT
PS Australian Star -- 7 night cruise Echuca Return
3 cruises
APT
Coral Discoverer -- 7 Night (Cairns Return)
2 cruises
Travel Marvel
Spirit of the Outback 1 Night Brisbane to Longreac
2 cruises
APT
PS Australian Star -- 4 night cruise Echuca Return
1 cruise
Discover East Australia tours for every budget
East Australia tours for every type of group
Who are you traveling with?
Top East Australia travel itineraries to fit your plans
3 Day Itineraries
7 Day Itineraries
10 Day Itineraries
Demographics
Solo Travelers168 tours- Couples114 tours
- Young Adults (18 - 39)33 tours
- Seniors (50+)84 tours
Best time to visit East Australia
- Winter 2025 / 2026
Winter is ideal for exploring Australia's east coast and our Sydney tours between May and August are consistently popular. You'll get to watch humpback whales migrate past during 4WD trips on K'gari (Fraser Island). The well-designed tours start in Sydney's local neighborhoods before heading to basecamp near One Mile Beach - it's a great spot for wild dolphin watching, running down massive dunes on sandboards and joining guided bush walks. The Whitsundays sailing tours work really well in winter too, with calm waters making it perfect for snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef and finding secluded beaches. Our longer east coast journeys get great feedback for balancing outdoor activities, cultural experiences and also mild winter weather.
- 65 tours
- 103 tours
- popular 135 tours
- Spring 2026
Spring makes extended east coast exploration really enjoyable, and our travelers keep rating the Brisbane to Cairns routes as their top picks. The 5-week journeys give you proper time in each spot - you'll take surfing lessons in Byron Bay, sail through the Whitsundays and also discover the ancient Daintree Rainforest. Sydney-based tours shine with harbor cruises, coastal walks and native wildlife encounters. The spring weather creates just the right conditions for hiking the Noosa Coastal Track, swimming at Lake McKenzie on K'gari and also exploring the Great Barrier Reef.
- popular 125 tours
- 121 tours
- 123 tours
- Summer 2026
Summer brings the east coast water activities to life, especially around Cairns. You'll spend your days exploring the Great Barrier Reef's coral gardens with marine biologists who explain the reef ecology while you spot sea turtles and tropical fish. The Sydney tours mix city discoveries with ocean activities to beat the heat - harbor sailing, coastal walks and also surfing lessons. Our boutique Brisbane to Cairns tours balance adventure with culture nicely, combining indigenous guided walks, wildlife encounters and also rainforest exploration.
- 118 tours
- 119 tours
- popular 120 tours
- Fall / Autumn 2026
Autumn is perfect for longer trips up Australia's east coast, and our Brisbane to Cairns adventures get consistently good reviews this time of year. The 5-week journeys mix surfing in Byron Bay, Whitsundays sailing and Great Barrier Reef exploration - the cooler temperatures make outdoor activities much more pleasant. Sydney tours combine city life with nature, offering wild dolphin spotting, sandboarding and also guided bush walks. The multi-day Whitsundays sailing tours really shine in autumn, with a nice balance of water activities and also island exploration.
- 128 tours
- popular 140 tours
- 134 tours
Contact our East Australia travel experts
Joachim
Expert in East Australia at TourRadar
Joachim is one of our seasoned East Australia Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about East Australia tours answered!
- Choose from 281+ East Australia tours
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Call us
+64 4888 0182What our customers ask about East Australia Tours & Trips
What's Really the Best Way to Get Around Australia's East Coast?
The Greyhound coaches are honestly great for travelers watching their budget you get these flexible hop-on-hop-off passes that let you explore at your own pace. Flying between cities is definitely faster if you're short on time and lots of our travelers actually mix it up they'll fly between Sydney Brisbane and Cairns then use the Greyhound to check out all the spots in between. For a proper 5-week East Coast adventure you're looking at spending somewhere between 2500 and 4500 AUD which really isn't bad when you think about everything you'll see.
How Much Time Do You Actually Need for an East Coast Australia Trip?
Most people who've done it will tell you 6 weeks is the sweet spot it gives you enough time to really soak in everything from Sydney up to Cairns without rushing. You can properly explore the major cities hit up Byron Bay cruise around the Whitsundays and spend quality time on Fraser Island. If you've only got 3-4 weeks that's doable too but you'll need to be a bit pickier about what you want to see. There's this great 3-day tour from Adelaide to Melbourne along the Great Ocean Road and through the Grampians that'll set you back about 500-800 AUD.
What Kind of Local Cultural Experiences Can You Actually Join In?
There's this really special Welcome to Country ceremony on K'gari (Fraser Island) with the Butchulla people that's just incredible. The local custodians welcome you to their land through traditional songs and stories it's one of those genuine experiences you won't find in typical tourist spots. In Red Rock you can join a First Nations cultural walk where Gumbaynggirr guides share their stories teach you about native plants and show you traditional bush tucker it's hands-on and really authentic.
Where Are the Best Natural Areas Outside the Cities and How Do You Get There?
Beyond the obvious Great Barrier Reef there's this amazing spot called Crowdy Bay National Park just north of Sydney. You've got these gorgeous beaches dramatic cliffs and these hidden coves plus hiking trails for everyone. Keep your eyes open for whales and dolphins offshore and you'll probably spot kangaroos hopping around the bush. Dorrigo National Park is another gem you can get there via the Waterfall Way it's got these incredible waterfalls and it's actually got plants that date back to when Gondwanaland was still around.
Which Secret Routes Do Experienced Travelers Take Around East Australia?
The Waterfall Way between Bellingen and Dorrigo National Park is this incredible alternative route people love it because you're driving through this amazing subtropical rainforest that's actually left over from ancient Gondwanaland. You get these stunning waterfall views and glimpses of wildlife you won't see on the main highway. For cycling enthusiasts the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail is perfect it's got different terrains country backroads and works for both new riders and more experienced ones you can even use e-bikes if you want.