Australia East Coast Tours & Trips
Could you handle Australia's east coast, though? We're talking Bondi surf lessons, sailing through the Whitsundays with that insane water color, exploring Fraser Island's sand dunes in a 4x4, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef before it's too late, wine tasting in Hunter Valley, and learning about First Nations culture in Gumbaynggirr. Sydney to Cairns properly done.
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- Choose from 50+ Australia East Coast tours
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Katie • traveled in December
Loved Ozintro...awesome week, and perfect start to a great year! A big help throughout the year...and equally loved working for you with Ozparty... so much fun & best job ever!! Thanks you guys! Xxx
Oz Intro - BW
Bryan • traveled in November, 2025
We just finished this tour and got exactly what was advertised with a few bonus additions: our guide, Cara, was experienced, professional and organized; and we had a great group of fellow travellers. If you are looking for a stress free introduction to the Australian East Coast, this is it !
Sydney to Brisbane – 8 Day Boutique Tour - T
Tiffany • traveled in September
I want to give a 5 for the tour but it was nerve racking that I never got a welcome package or solid itinerary. The Monday before the Friday trip I called with urgency asking my meeting hotel. The guide told me it was a holiday and he would have someone get back in touch with me. I am freaking out because i fly Thursday..takes a couple days to get there from USA. So no one calls or notifies me there is a response in my box saying that it is probably these hotels but not for sure. Then another text comes later saying where the meeting hotel is and giving me an itinerary with no times, hotel, etc. Just the basic one that you see online before purchasing. I wanted to set up transfers but the transfer buttons would not populate. I was so afraid no one would be there but since it is an English speaking country i knew i could figure it out if i go there and no one is avail. I arrive and take uber to the hotel. Luckily, another tour member was at the desk the same time as me! She too did not get information. I was so happy to meet her. We got a welcome paper stating our guide would be five hours late. Now, we are both nervous but grateful the rooms were already booked and in our names. So later when our wonderful guide Max shows up we can begin to really calm down. He was a great guide. He went over and beyond as far as making us feel comfortable and treating us to bbqs and planned events when one of the planned presentations fell through. The lack of being able to have a detailed itinerary nor be able to talk to someone...I even wrote Intrepid to no avail. My ending day I booked my flight too early assuming we were in Brisbane for the last day. In actuality we drive to the finishing spot on the last day so i had to shuttle myself out of Byron Bay and stay at another hotel to catch my 6:00a.m flight. These hiccups could have been avoided if someone could respond in a proper fashion. They say they are not fully manned at this time. Answering phones and texts is not a difficult job. I would do it for you for a discount...lol. Just saying. The trip was amazing. Great spots, fun stuff, good food. Please do this just make sure you get the details and can reach someone...
Sydney to Brisbane Adventure
Traveler Photos & Videos from Australia East Coast tours
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Most of the Coast: Sydney to Cairns
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8 Day Livin' The Dream Surf Adventure
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Table of contents
- The best Australia East Coast tour packages
- Travel Australia East Coast your way
- Best tour companies for Australia East Coast tours
- Australia East Coast tours for every type of group
- Top Australia East Coast travel itineraries to fit your plans
- Demographics
- Best time to visit Australia East Coast
- Contact our Australia East Coast travel experts
- What our customers ask about Australia East Coast Tours & Trips
The best Australia East Coast tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaAustralia East Coast travel expert at TourRadar
Oz Intro
1,536 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The 28-day trip along Australia's east coast takes you to the most beautiful places! The organization is excellent.”
Lotte, traveled in June
Surfing instruction at Byron Bay combines with sunrise walks to Cape Byron Lighthouse and paddleboarding through Surfers Paradise's mangroves. Beachfront hostels host group BBQs, ending at Brisbane's famous Lagoon.
Duration 10 days Destinations Sydney, Byron Bay, Surfers Paradise, Brisbane Age Range Ages 18-45 Operator INTRO Travel From
- US$874
Sydney to Brisbane – 8 Day Boutique Tour
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“If you are looking for a stress free introduction to the Australian East Coast, this is it!”
Bryan, traveled in November
Premium accommodations at Holiday Inn Potts Point and Rainbow Getaway Apartments anchor this Sydney to Brisbane coastal adventure. K'gari Island paradise, Hunter Valley wineries, and Byron Bay's coastal charm await, shared with maximum 16 travelers.
Duration 8 days Destinations Sydney, Hunter Valley, Newcastle, Port Macquarie, Byron Bay, Noosa, Rainbow Beach, Fraser Island, Brisbane Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Via Travel Australia From $3,046
15% Off- US$2,589You save $457
Sydney to Brisbane Adventure
11 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Perfect mix of leisure and activities. I would highly recommend him to anyone doing trips in East Coast of Australia.”
Ajeeth, traveled in April
Sydney's harbor opens a path to Brisbane's cityscape, featuring Hunter Valley wines, Port Macquarie's koala hospital, and Byron Bay's lighthouse. Wallis Lake cruise, Dangar Falls swimming, and indigenous experiences at Orara East State Forest complete the journey.
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
15% Off- US$2,380
Brisbane to Cairns Experience: Sand Dunes & the Whitsundays
30 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Fraser Island was super cool. Awesome guide that provided a lot of information.”
Tobias, traveled in December
The coastal path from Brisbane's Howard Smith Wharves to Cairns showcases K'gari 4x4 tours, Noosa National Park hikes, and Whitsundays sailing adventures. Hostel accommodation and various transport options included.
Duration 10 days Destinations Brisbane, Fraser Island, Mackay, Whitsunday Islands, Airlie Beach, Cairns Age Range Ages 18-39 Operator G Adventures From $2,699
25% Off- US$2,024You save $675
East Coast Australia: 6 Week | ULTIMATE
75 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Travelling all up the east coast with ultimate travel is well and truly worth it, especially with an insane tour guide.”
Jack, traveled in October
The grand coastal route from Sydney to Cairns unfolds with harbor cruises, Byron Bay surfing, Fraser Island 4x4 adventures, and Whitsunday sailing. Includes 40 nights in quality hostels, professional guides, and 15 meals.
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$4,317
Most of the Coast: Sydney to Cairns
38 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Everyday was packed full of adventure and excitement! I wish it would be longer!”
Eddie, traveled in September
Nine iconic destinations unfold from Sydney to Cairns. Surf lessons at Spot X, aboriginal culture on K'gari Island, and Whitsundays sailing create unforgettable moments. Multi-share hostel stays included, rated 4.9/5.0 from 35+ reviews.
Duration 16 days Destinations Sydney, Arrawarra, Byron Bay, Brisbane, Noosa, Fraser Island, Airlie Beach, Whitsunday Islands, Cairns Age Range Ages 18-39 Operator G Adventures From $3,949
25% Off- US$2,962You save $987
Sydney to Cairns Adventure
6 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Very well run and organized. Great tour.”
Michael, traveled in March
Duration 14 days Destinations Sydney, Hunter Valley, Cessnock, Port Macquarie, Dorrigo National Park, Coffs Harbour, Byron Bay, Springbrook, Gold Coast, BrisbaneSee all destinations Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From
25% Off- US$5,590
Duration 4 days Destinations Brisbane Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Vio Travel From
25% Off- US$450
UltimateOz - Gap Year | ULTIMATE
193 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The trip down to Port Stephens was so good and nice to get out of the city for a few Days!”
Grace, traveled in November
The coastal route from Sydney Harbor to Newcastle reveals dolphin habitats near One Mile Beach, with stays at Ultimate Basecamp. Visitors can sandboard at Stockton Dunes, watch bottlenose dolphins in Nelson Bay, and walk the stunning Coogee to Bondi coastal path.
Duration 8 days Destinations Sydney, Newcastle, Bondi Age Range Ages 18-35 Operator Ultimate Travel From
25% Off- US$797
Travel Australia East Coast your way
Best tour companies for Australia East Coast tours
UltimateOz really stands out for travelers exploring Australia solo or in their 20s. From what our customers tell us, the guides know their local areas inside out and the activities hit all the right notes - you're out on Sydney Harbour one day and sliding down massive sand dunes the next. If you're keen to catch some waves, Mojosurf keeps things affordable without cutting corners on quality. Their camps at Spot X and Byron Bay are exactly what you want in a surf school - skilled instructors who make learning fun and a casual vibe that helps everyone relax into the experience. G Adventures runs a solid route from Brisbane up to Cairns, and while some of our travelers mentioned their guides' knowledge varied a bit, the trip itself packs in some of Australia's best spots. You'll get out to Fraser Island and cruise through the Whitsundays, which gives you a proper taste of Queensland's coast.
Australia East Coast tours for every type of group
Who are you traveling with?
Top Australia East Coast travel itineraries to fit your plans
Demographics
Solo Travelers42 tours- Couples20 tours
- Young Adults (18 - 39)18 tours
- Seniors (50+)16 tours
Best time to visit Australia East Coast
- Winter 2025 / 2026
Winter brings some excellent touring options along Australia's East Coast, with cooler weather that's perfect for certain activities. Our Sydney tours really shine this time of year - you can pair city exploration with Blue Mountains day trips where the crisp mountain air makes hiking comfortable and you'll often spot kangaroos during early morning walks. Harbor cruises run throughout winter with smaller crowds, giving you clear views of the Opera House and Bridge. We see lots of gap year participants joining winter programs, where they mix surf lessons with sandboarding and wildlife spotting without summer's intense heat. The shorter days lead to great social connections, especially during pub crawls and evening activities.
- 30 tours
- 37 tours
- popular 44 tours
- Spring 2026
Spring temperatures create ideal conditions for our most popular East Coast journeys. The Brisbane to Cairns routes are particularly good - our travelers tell us the Great Barrier Reef snorkeling conditions are perfect and the Whitsundays sailing through turquoise waters is at its best. Fraser Island really comes alive in spring too. You'll drive 4WDs along 75 Mile Beach, cool off in Lake McKenzie's crystal waters and often catch migrating whales from Indian Head lookout. The weather lets you properly enjoy both beach time and rainforest walks. We also see high demand for boutique tours mixing Sydney's main sights with Hunter Valley wines, where mild temperatures make outdoor tastings and garden walks extra pleasant.
- 39 tours
- 38 tours
- popular 41 tours
- Summer 2026
Summer is prime time for our beach-focused tours with plenty of ocean swimming to beat the heat. The Byron Bay surf camps fill quickly - our instructors are patient and the conditions are ideal, with complete beginners usually standing on their boards within just a few days. If you're starting in Sydney, our packages mix harbor swims with coastal walks and beach visits, while longer East Coast routes let you really sink into summer. You'll camp under stars in Noosa, snorkel alongside turtles on the reef and join group beach barbecues. Early lighthouse walks and social evenings help you dodge the strongest midday sun.
- 39 tours
- popular 41 tours
- 39 tours
- Fall / Autumn 2026
Autumn gives us some of our most varied touring experiences, with comfortable temperatures perfect for mixing activities. Our 6-week East Coast routes are especially popular, combining Daintree rainforest hikes with Aboriginal cultural experiences. The mild weather means you can still swim at most stops but without summer's intensity. Wildlife viewing really picks up on our Sydney to Brisbane routes - travelers regularly spot koalas around Port Macquarie and dolphins off Nelson Bay. The balance of outdoor activities and cultural experiences works particularly well in autumn's gentle conditions.
- popular 40 tours
- 40 tours
- 39 tours
Contact our Australia East Coast travel experts
Claire
Expert in Australia East Coast at TourRadar
Claire is one of our seasoned Australia East Coast Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about Australia East Coast tours answered!
- Choose from 77+ Australia East Coast tours
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Call us
+1 844 311 8331What our customers ask about Australia East Coast Tours & Trips
How do you get around those big East Coast cities - you know, New York, Boston, and D.C.?
Getting around the major cities isn't as tricky as you might think. New York's subway runs 24/7 which is super convenient and you'll find Boston's T subway covers pretty much everywhere you need to go though the hours change depending on which line you're taking. D.C.'s Metro is really efficient but heads up it closes earlier than New York's. You know what works really well? Mixing up public transport with walking tours especially in Boston where you can join these amazing Freedom Trail walks that take you right through revolutionary history and all the important historical spots.
What's the best way to experience nature beyond the city buzz?
The East Coast has some incredible natural spots once you step away from the urban scene. You've got to check out Acadia National Park in Maine with these stunning coastal views and hiking trails you can easily reach by car or hop on the park shuttle. Cape Cod's another gem with these beautiful beach towns and pristine shorelines - just drive over or catch a ferry. The Blue Ridge Mountains are perfect for both hiking and driving with loads of scenic stops and waterfalls you can easily access by car.
I've heard about the major spots, but what about those hidden East Coast gems?
While everyone's hitting the big cities there are these amazing places just waiting to be discovered. Salem Massachusetts is fascinating with its maritime history and those famous witch trials - you'll find great museums and historical walks there. Then there's Annapolis Maryland this gorgeous historic seaport with colonial buildings and sailing opportunities just a car or train ride from the major cities. For something really special head to North Carolina's Outer Banks where you've got these incredible beaches wild horses and lighthouse tours all accessible by car.
What kind of local experiences can visitors really get into along the East Coast?
You can really dive into the local scene in so many ways. Boston's Freedom Trail walks let you literally follow in revolutionary footsteps while discovering all these important historical places. Philadelphia's got this amazing art scene where you can catch performances at the Kimmel Center or explore these world-class museums. And New York's food scene is just incredible - join a food tour through Little Italy or Chinatown and you'll taste the real deal.
Should I book a guided tour or just hit the road on my own?
It really depends on what kind of traveler you are. Guided tours take care of all the details - like our UltimateOz Gap Year package that handles everything from airport pickups to accommodation plus these great Sydney tours including Opera House visits Harbour Bridge exploration a harbor cruise with BBQ time at Basecamp near One Mile Beach and even a pub crawl. Our customers love not having to worry about the details. But if you're more of a freestyle traveler doing your own road trip gives you total freedom to explore at your own pace and find those hidden spots though you'll need to plan things out yourself. Think about how you like to travel and go from there.