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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Dirk • traveled in December, 2024
I’ve just completed a five-week journey from Sydney to Cairns, and I can confidently say it was the best five weeks of my life. This trip would never have been the same without our incredible tour guide, Zoe. Zoe went above and beyond in every possible way. She wasn’t just organized, she was always a step ahead, ensuring everything ran smoothly while also creating a vibrant and fun atmosphere. Her attention to detail was unmatched. I truly don’t believe I would have experienced half as much or created such amazing memories without booking this ultimate tour. If you’re lucky enough to have Zoe as your guide, know that you’re in for something special. Thank you, Zoe, for making this the trip of a lifetime!
East Coast Explorer: 5 Week | ULTIMATE - K
Katharina • traveled in September, 2025
It was good but a lot of extra cost
Oz Intro - C
Charlotte • traveled in May
I really liked the itinerary, it was varied with some active days like the hike to Hells gate and back. Other days we could do our own thing which was great. Most of the hostels were to be expected, however the one in Airlie Beach was awfully dirty and lacking basic things such as lockers and safes. Apart from that, I enjoyed the trip!
Brisbane to Cairns Experience: Sand Dunes & the Whitsundays
Traveler Photos & Videos from East Australia tours
3 Day Adelaide to Melbourne Overland Adventure Tour (Accommodated)
Ofer
East Coast Explorer: 5 Week | ULTIMATEKatie
Oz IntroElla
East Coast Highlights - 3 Week | ULTIMATEChloe
Brisbane to Cairns Experience: Sand Dunes & the WhitsundaysBorja
Welcome to MelbourneAnia
2 Day / 2 Night Whitsunday Islands Sailing Adventure (on Condor, Broomstick or Hammer)George
10-Day Australia Starter Package - PrivateLilbeth
MPMAUREEN
Best of Cairns, Great Barrier Reef & Daintree (10 destinations)
TKTrecia
Sailing Adventures through the Whitsunday Islands
Brisbane to Cairns - 7 Day Boutique Tourleslie
CGClaudia
Most of the Coast: Sydney to Cairns
SMSophia
East Coast Australia: 6 Week | ULTIMATE
Oz East Coast Adventure 28 DaysDaniella
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
The best East Australia tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaEast Australia travel expert at TourRadar
East Coast Explorer: 5 Week | ULTIMATE
107 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“My favorite part was K'gari. I already miss the people I met and above all my group leader Jenn.”
Sarah, 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
- US$3,961
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, Bondi Beach, Byron Bay, Surfers Paradise, Brisbane Age Range Ages 18-45 Operator INTRO Travel From
- US$924
Brisbane to Cairns Experience: Sand Dunes & the Whitsundays
32 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“I enjoyed having a smaller, intimate group for a greater opportunity to bond. Seen a lot in a short period of time.”
Alyssa, traveled in July
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 $2,549
25% Off- US$1,912You save $637
Sydney to Brisbane Adventure
11 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour was amazing. We had a wonderful time.”
Loeki, traveled in February
Cover 1000km from Sydney to Brisbane, starting at Hunter Valley for sommelier-led wine tastings. Port Macquarie's Koala Hospital comes next, then walk the skywalk through Dorrigo National Park's ancient Gondwana rainforest. Byron Bay Lighthouse offers great dolphin-spotting chances offshore.
Duration 7 days Destinations Sydney, Hunter Valley, Cessnock, Port Macquarie, Dorrigo National Park, Coffs Harbour, Byron Bay, Springbrook, Gold Coast, Brisbane Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From
25% Off- US$2,380
East Coast Australia: 6 Week | ULTIMATE
75 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“I had a fantastic time with ultimate travel! We had good guidance with booking the optional activities.”
Britt, 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- US$4,598
3 Day Adelaide to Melbourne Overland Adventure Tour (Accommodated)
9 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Good company to travel with and Greg was very unformative.”
Pam, traveled in November
Eastern Australia's diverse landscapes stretch from Adelaide Hills to coastal Victoria. Grampians' rocky peaks rise dramatically, native wildlife thrives at Tower Hill Reserve, and ancient rainforest fills Great Otway National Park. Comfortable stays at Gariwerd Motel and Warrnambool accommodations included.
Duration 3 days Destinations Adelaide, Grampians National Park, Halls Gap, Warrnambool, Great Otway National Park, Apollo Bay, Lorne, Great Ocean Road, Geelong, Melbourne Age Range Ages 6+ Operator Autopia Tours From
25% Off- US$633
Best of Sydney & the Great Barrier Reef
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We had an amazing trip, very well organized. We had an amazing time and learned a lot from this great continent.”
Henriett, traveled in October
Sydney Opera House marks the starting point of this coastal adventure to Great Barrier Reef. Ibis Styles Sydney Central and Southern Cross Atrium Cairns provide comfort while Blue Mountains wilderness, ancient Daintree Rainforest, and tropical reef locations showcase natural wonders.
Duration 12 days Destinations Sydney, Blue Mountains, Cairns, Great Barrier Reef, Daintree National Park, Fitzroy Island, Green Island National Park Age Range Ages 6+ Operator Travel Made Easy Pty Ltd From
25% Off- US$3,254
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 Travelers157 tours- Couples121 tours
- Young Adults (18 - 39)30 tours
- Seniors (50+)77 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.
- 68 tours
- popular 110 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 118 tours
- 112 tours
- 117 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.
- 113 tours
- 114 tours
- popular 118 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.
- 122 tours
- popular 139 tours
- 136 tours
Contact our East Australia travel experts
Alex
Expert in East Australia at TourRadar
Alex is one of our seasoned East Australia Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about East Australia tours answered!
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