An East Coast road/bus trip is almost a rite of passage for backpackers in Oz. From the sparkling Whitsundays Islands and Great Barrier Reef to iconic Sydney and Brisbane and Byron Bay and Fraser Island in between, travelers can't help but fall in love with this slice of paradise. There's never a shortage of things to do or see, but there are definitely highlights and muse-sees that you just can't miss.
Here are 5 of the best East Coast tours that will make your trip one to remember.
1. K'Gari (Fraser Island) 3D2N 4WD Adventure
Fall in love with Fraser Island.It's not everyday that you get to step on the world's largest sand island! The recently-named K'Gari (Fraser Island) boasts long stretch of sandy beaches, dingoes, and pristine blue lakes.
This overnight camping tour takes you to the best spots in K'Gari including 4WD adventure on the beaches, learn Indigenous cultural experiences (you can throw a boomerang!), and do water activities. Explore the famous Lake McKenzie and Eli Creek, Maheno shipwreck, and Champagne Pools.
INCLUDED: cabin accommodation, meals, 4WD vehicle, ferry tickets, national park fees.
2. Byron Bay Kayak with Dolphins with Cape Byron Kayaks
This is a magical Byron Bay tour. It gives you a taste on the natural wonders that abound in this area!
You'll enjoy about 3 hours on the water, leaving from Clarks Beach and follow the coastline out to the Cape. You'll meet some dolphin friends at Wategos Beach and enjoy a snack too.
This trip is jam-packed with wildlife encounters, and you might even be lucky enough to see whales and turtles.
INCLUDED: pickup/drop off, all equipment, snacks
3. Great Barrier Reef 'Reef Sleep' with Awesome Whitsundays
What could be a better Great Barrier Reef experience than actually sleeping on the waves!? This unique tour gives you the chance to see the Reef during both day and night.
You'll cruise past Airlie Beach and The Whitsundays and spend your days snorkelling over the spectacular coral. You'll also enjoy access to Underwater Observatory. When darkness falls, sleep on deck in swags under the stars.
INCLUDED: access to Underwater Observatory, all equipment, meals.
4. Skydive in Cairns with Skydive Australia
It goes without saying - this is an incredible way to take in Cairns and it's beautiful surrounds.
You'll jump from 14,000 feet and soar over spectacular views of Cairns, the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. Skydive Australia is one of the country's leading skydive companies, so you know a trip with them will be safe and full of adrenaline.
INCLUDED: Pickup/drop off, certificate of skydive.
So there you have it! The perfect East Coast road trip. What are you waiting for? Now all you have to do is book!
If you want to explore the East Coast on the cheap, check out our blogs on 7 free things to do in Byron Bay and 5 free things to do in Airlie Beach.
