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Australia’s East Coast Treasures

Embark on an exclusive, 18-day, small-group adventure that takes you on a thrilling exploration of Australia’s coastal wonders. From the iconic cityscapes of Sydney to the tropical tranquility of the Whitsundays, this tour is designed for those seeking a blend of heart-pumping adventure and tranquil moments in stunning surroundings. Splash into the Great Barrier Reef, wander through ancient rainforests, spot wildlife in its natural habitat, and experience the awe-inspiring natural beauty of K’Gari Island. With a focus on immersive, hands-on experiences and premium accommodations, this is the ultimate Australian coastal adventure.

Is this trip for me?

Duration: 18 days | 17 nights (plus optional Uluru extension)

Tour Starts & Ends: Sydney, Australia to Brisbane, Australia

Accommodation Style: Hand picked 4-5 star hotels. Single rooms available for a supplement

Activity Level: Easy – Ideal for most travellers who love adventure with a high level of comfort

Availability: Limited departures in April to June and September to November for optimal conditions and to avoid the peak crowds.

Trip Type: Small Group (max 16 travellers)

Age Requirement: 14+ (all travellers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult)

Highlights

Jetboat to Whitehaven Beach: Zoom through the Whitsunday waters to reach the world-famous white sands and vibrant reefs

Snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef: Immerse yourself in the underwater world of vibrant coral gardens and colourful marine life

4×4 Drive on K’Gari Island: Explore the world’s largest sand island, navigating sandy highways and discovering pristine lakes and lush rainforest

Wildlife Encounters in the Daintree: Swim in freshwater creeks and cruise the Daintree River, spotting saltwater crocodiles and rare bird species

Forts Walk on Magnetic Island: Hike the scenic trail to spot wild koalas and enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline

Scenic Railway and Cableway in the Blue Mountains: Experience heart-stopping views of the Three Sisters and the Jamison Valley from thrilling vantage points

Swim in Lake McKenzie: Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear freshwater lake, surrounded by powder-white sand on K’Gari Island

Explore Uluru & Kata Tjuta (Optional): Wander through sacred landscapes, witness fiery desert sunsets, and journey off-road into Aboriginal homelands for a powerful cultural connection

These handpicked experiences promise to fill your days with adventure, discovery, and memories to last a lifetime. Departures are limited and bound to fill quickly.

Details

Included:

  Premium Accommodation: Twin Share in handpicked 3-4 star hotels and lodges. Single rooms available for a supplement.
  Local, Authentic Meals: Daily breakfast, some lunches, and some dinners. Included meals are as specified in the itinerary, though at times your guide may swap meals around if needed.
  Adventure Activities: Snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, Jetboating the Whitsundays, Exploring the Great Ocean Road, 4x4ing K’Gari Island, and SO much more!
  Private Transportation: Bus sizes will vary depending on group size. Bus journeys are private, though transport by boat will be shared.
  Local Legend: Your guide knows this region like no others and they are excited to share their stories with you.
  Small Group Experience: Tours will have a maximum group size of 16 passengers or less!
 Domestic Flights: Flights within the tour are included in economy class.


Not Included:

✕  International Flights: Your international airfare to and from Australia.
✕  Visas or ETAs to enter Australia: We can provide more information about how to obtain these clearances.
✕  Airport Transfers: Available to book through Radventures at additional cost.
✕  Beverages: Drinks (both soft and alcoholic) are at your own expense.
✕  Gratuity: Tips, especially for your guide are not required but encouraged for great service.
✕  Single Room: Limited single rooms are available for a supplement.
✕  Travel Insurance: Mandatory and available for purchase
✕  Uluru Extension: 3 night extension is available for purchase

Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Uluru & Sunset Experience

Touch down in the heart of Australia and transfer to your hotel to check in and settle into your surroundings. This afternoon, meet your guide and head out to explore Uluru – one of the world’s most iconic and spiritually rich natural wonders.

Journey around the base of this sacred monolith, stopping for a short walk to the Mutitjulu Waterhole. Here, you’ll discover ancient rock art and hear stories of the Anangu people, the traditional custodians of the land. Continue to the Mala Walk before arriving at a specially chosen vantage point to watch the colours of Uluru transform at sunset. Enjoy light refreshments as the day fades and the desert comes alive with evening hues.

 

Meals: None

Overnight: Uluru

Sample Hotel: Outback Hotel & Lodge

Arrive in Sydney, a vibrant city where iconic landmarks meet coastal charm. After settling into your hotel, meet your guide and fellow adventurers for a warm welcome and briefing. Enjoy a relaxed evening soaking in Sydney’s lively energy before heading out for a memorable welcome dinner at a classic Aussie pub.

Meals: Dinner
Overnight: Sydney
Sample Hotel: The Grace Sydney or similar

Today, Sydney’s energy unfolds before you, from its historic heart to its sun-kissed shores. Stroll through The Rocks, where sandstone buildings and hidden laneways echo the city’s past. Feel the grandeur of the Sydney Opera House, its white sails gleaming against the skyline, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Circular Quay

Later we head to Bondi Beach, where surfers carve through rolling waves and golden sand warms beneath your feet. Take in the endless blue horizon, breathing in the salty breeze. In the afternoon, explore at your own pace or join an optional surf lesson to embrace Australia’s beach culture firsthand (we recommend advance booking).

Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Sydney
Sample Hotel: The Grace Sydney or similar

Leave the city behind as we journey into the Blue Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed wilderness of towering sandstone cliffs, misty valleys, and ancient eucalyptus forests. Our first stop is Featherdale Wildlife Park, where you’ll come face to face with Australia’s most beloved wildlife—hand-feed a kangaroo, snap a photo with a cuddly koala, and spot elusive native species up close.

Next, thrill-seekers can brace for jaw-dropping views at Scenic World, home to the world’s steepest railway and a breathtaking cableway ride over the lush Jamison Valley. Stand in awe before the legendary Three Sisters, an ancient rock formation steeped in Aboriginal legend. After a day of adventure, return to Sydney, your senses still buzzing with the rugged beauty of the mountains.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Sydney
Sample Hotel: The Grace Sydney or similar

This morning, we take a quick flight to Melbourne, Australia’s cultural capital and a city pulsing with creativity. On arrival, dive straight into its iconic laneways, where bold street art, hole-in-the-wall coffee spots, and indie boutiques create a vibe unlike anywhere else. Your expert guide will lead you through hidden alleys to uncover the city’s best-kept secrets, from quirky cafes to offbeat galleries.

Pause for a coffee break—because in Melbourne, coffee isn’t just a drink, it’s a ritual. Then, we hit Federation Square and the striking Flinders Street Station, soaking in the city’s electric energy before a delicious welcome-to-Melbourne dinner at a local eatery.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Melbourne
Sample Hotel: The Dorsett Hotel or similar

Today, we set out on one of the world’s most spectacular coastal drives—the Great Ocean Road. As we wind along this breathtaking route, witness sheer limestone cliffs, endless ocean views, and lush rainforests spilling onto golden beaches.

Pass through charming seaside towns before arriving at the rugged highlight of the journey—the Twelve Apostles. These towering limestone stacks rise dramatically from the Southern Ocean, shaped by time and tide. A short drive away, step into the storied past of Loch Ard Gorge, where shipwreck legends meet striking coastal beauty. After a day of unforgettable scenery, we return to Melbourne in the evening, still awed by nature’s artistry.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Melbourne
Sample Hotel: The Dorsett Hotel or similar

This morning, we swap Melbourne’s cityscape for the lush tropics of Cairns, the vibrant gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. A short flight whisks us to this laid-back coastal paradise, where palm-fringed shores and warm breezes welcome us.

Spend the afternoon at your leisure—relax by the beach, explore the lively Esplanade, or dip your toes in the lagoon

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Cairns
Sample Hotel: Crystalbrook Bailey Hotel or similar

Step into the ancient world of the Daintree Rainforest, where towering ferns, tangled vines, and the call of exotic birds create an immersive tropical paradise. This UNESCO-listed wonder is the world’s oldest rainforest—home to pristine freshwater creeks and rare wildlife found nowhere else on Earth.

Take an exciting and refreshing float down a crystal-clear rainforest stream (no crocs here!), surrounded by the lush canopy. After lunch, board a Daintree River cruise, gliding past mangrove-lined banks as you scan for saltwater crocodiles basking in the sun. With the rainforest’s magic still lingering, we return to Cairns in the afternoon.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Cairns
Sample Hotel: Crystalbrook Bailey Hotel or similar

Today, we set sail for an unforgettable journey into the Great Barrier Reef, the largest living structure on Earth. As we cruise over turquoise waters, anticipation builds for an up-close encounter with this natural wonder.

Dive into a world of rainbow-coloured coral gardens, where tropical fish dart among the reefs. Whether you’re snorkelling, swimming, or even trying an optional scuba dive (discovery dives are available for people without a license), the experience is nothing short of breathtaking. Between reef stops, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch on board, then bask in the sun as we cruise back to Cairns—just in time for Happy Hour by the waterfront.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Cairns
Sample Hotel: Crystalbrook Bailey Hotel or similar

Today is yours to unwind or seek adventure. Relax by the beach, explore the Cairns Esplanade, or visit the serene Botanic Gardens. For those wanting deeper exploration, we highly recommend the Kuranda scenic and historic train ride and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway (advance booking recommended).

Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Cairns
Sample Hotel: Crystalbrook Bailey Hotel or similar

Hit the open road as we journey south from Cairns to Townsville, uncovering tropical gems along the way. Our first stop is Josephine Falls, where a natural rock slide leads into a cool, crystal-clear plunge pool beneath a cascading rainforest waterfall—the perfect spot for a refreshing dip.

Next, we visit Murdering Point Winery, where tropical fruits are transformed into unique local wines. Sip on bold flavours of lychee, mango, and passionfruit before a relaxed coffee break in a charming café. By late afternoon, we arrive in Townsville, a laid-back coastal city where we gather for a sunset dinner with ocean views.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Townsville
Sample Hotel: The Ville Resort-Casino or similar

Day 1: Welcome to Uluru & Sunset Experience

Touch down in the heart of Australia and transfer to your hotel to check in and settle into your surroundings. This afternoon, meet your guide and head out to explore Uluru – one of the world’s most iconic and spiritually rich natural wonders.

Journey around the base of this sacred monolith, stopping for a short walk to the Mutitjulu Waterhole. Here, you’ll discover ancient rock art and hear stories of the Anangu people, the traditional custodians of the land. Continue to the Mala Walk before arriving at a specially chosen vantage point to watch the colours of Uluru transform at sunset. Enjoy light refreshments as the day fades and the desert comes alive with evening hues.

 

Meals: None

Overnight: Uluru

Sample Hotel: Outback Hotel & Lodge

We depart Townsville for the scenic drive to Airlie Beach, the vibrant gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. We plan to arrive by early afternoon and enjoy a relaxed evening exploring this lively coastal town.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Airlie Beach
Sample Hotel: Airlie Beach Hotel or similar

Feel the thrill as we cruise through the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Whitsundays on a jetboat adventure. Our destination: Whitehaven Beach, famed for its dazzling white silica sands that stretch endlessly across the shore. It’s a beach lover’s dream.

Snorkel in vibrant coral gardens, where marine life flourishes in technicolour—you might even spot a sea turtle or two. After soaking in the serenity of this pristine paradise, we head back to Airlie Beach, where the day’s adventure continues with a relaxed evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Airlie Beach
Sample Hotel: Airlie Beach Hotel or similar

Fly south to Brisbane, and then transfer to Noosa, a coastal haven that blends golden beaches with a laid-back vibe. Spend your afternoon wandering the town’s boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries, or take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque coastline.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Noosa
Sample Hotel: Noosa Blue Resort or similar

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to K’Gari Island, also known as Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its diverse landscapes, from pristine beaches and crystal-clear lakes to lush rainforests.

We spend the day on a thrilling 4×4 adventure where we drive ourselves across the island’s sandy highways. Lake McKenzie, a freshwater lake surrounded by powder-white sands, beckons for a refreshing swim. Continue through the ancient rainforest, where towering trees create a serene, shaded sanctuary. Keep an eye out for the island’s famous dingoes, one of the most genetically unique breeds in the world. After a full day of exploration, return to Noosa, filled with awe and gratitude for the island’s magic. It’s a day you won’t soon forget. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Noosa
Sample Hotel: Noosa Blue Resort or similar

Today is free for you to unwind or embrace the vibrant charm of Noosa. Spend the morning basking in the sun at Noosa Main Beach or take a stroll along the Noosa National Park coastal walk, where rugged cliffs meet the rolling surf. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like koalas dozing in the trees. Alternatively, discover Noosa’s inviting café culture, stopping for a coffee or boutique shopping in the lively Hastings Street precinct.

Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Noosa
Sample Hotel: Noosa Blue Resort or similar

Bid farewell to Noosa as you journey south to Brisbane, Queensland’s dynamic riverside capital. After checking in to your hotel, join your guide for a relaxed city stroll. Explore South Bank, a lively cultural hub with parklands, galleries, and riverside dining. Wander the vibrant Queen Street Mall, ideal for some last-minute shopping or soaking in Brisbane’s cosmopolitan vibe.

In the evening, gather with the group for a farewell dinner, celebrating the incredible memories made throughout our Australian adventure. 

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Brisbane
Sample Hotel: Crystalbrook Vincent or similar

Your incredible Australian adventure comes to an end today. We can’t wait for the next adventure. 

Meals: Breakfast

Journey Map

Reviews


FAQs

Your deposit is refundable for 24 hours after booking. After that, there is a $100 per person transfer fee that applies to changes you want to make to your tour (ie. to change the tour date or to choose a different tour). Transfers are possible until the final payment deadline, unless otherwise specified. Of course, if Radventures cannot confirm your tour by the final payment deadline, your deposit can be refunded or transferred to another tour free of charge.

Of course! There is a $100 per person transfer fee that applies. Transfers are possible until the final payment deadline, unless otherwise specified.

Radventures lives for those who want to escape the ordinary. Those who want to steer clear of the tourist traps and queues of cashed up pensioners. Those who are nomadic by nature and desire deep, authentic and local connections to make their trip as much about the journey as the destination. If that sounds like you, then you’re just like us, and between our relentless efforts to blow your expectations out of the water and our super knowledgable team, we’re your travel experts!

Different tours/trips have varying physical demands, but our most adventurous are designed to be enjoyed by anyone who is reasonably fit. When selecting your tour please make sure you have read through the itinerary and itinerary carefully to assess your ability and to cope with our style of travel. Some trips visit remote areas with limited or non-existent medical facilities so you must be in good health. Factors such as altitude, cold temperatures, delays, unfamiliar food and different customs and cultures can also add to the physical toll. Keep in mind you will sometimes need to carry your own bags. Please note that if, in an extremely unlikely case, in the opinion of our guide, any guest is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, Radventures reserves the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements (including a spare pair of glasses) as they may not easily be obtained at the locations on this trip. For legal reasons our guides are prohibited from administering any type of drugs including headache tablets and antibiotics. Please ensure that you are adequately prepared.

Yes! We would definitely recommend an “All Inclusive” policy that covers you for both medical expenses as well as any trip cancellation or interruptions. You can purchase this from our booking platform, “WeTravel”, or contact us for more information.

At Radventures we pride ourselves on our flexibility. If you wan’t to enjoy more of this beautiful country before and after your time with us, we’d be more than happy to make any arrangements for you. As for being partly involved in a tour, whilst we can’t make any guarantees about whats possible or not, it’s best that you get in touch with us when you’re considering booking a tour or trip with us and let us know how you want things to work so we can see if we can make it work.

This is a tricky one. We don’t know when other people will book, so it’s hard to know if and when the tour will fill up. Our advice is to book as soon as you’ve made the decision to travel, that way you won’t be disappointed. Most of our service providers have a cutoff date of 2-3 months before departure that we need to advise them to release any excess space, and while we may be able to get these services back after the cutoff date it’s definitely safer to book early while we can still guarantee enough space for you.

You’re in great company! We have two options for solo travellers on our tours – you can join our share program to be matched with another rad solo traveller (of the same sex), or you can purchase the single supplement to have your own private room.

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