2 Week Sydney To Cairns Budget
Select Date and Passengers
Whitsundays
Airlie Beach + Island
Fraser
K'gari Island Day Tour
Cairns
Tropical Reef Tour
Sailing
Social Vessel
Snorkelling
Great Barrier Reef
Accommodation
Hand-picked Hostels
Surfing
Lessons In Byron Bay
Transport
East Coast Bus Pass
Overview
It's time to stop dreaming, and start crossing off those gorgeous bucket list destinations in 2 weeks! The East Coast is just waiting to be discovered so grab your swimmers and sunnies and let the adventure begin on this jam-packed, seamless itinerary.
Absolutely full of dazzling beaches, tropical rainforests, kaleidoscopic reefs and bustling cities, the East Coast will provide you with sun-soaked moments at spectacular natural marvels. Spend 14 days travelling from Sydney to Cairns, stopping in Airlie Beach, the Great Barrier Reef, K’gari (Fraser Island), Noosa and Byron Bay! With worry-free travel and good times ensured, it’s time to discover paradise down under!
- Great Barrier Reef snorkelling through colourful corals and amazing marinelife.
- A jam-packed island experience amongst the turquoise waters of the Whitsundays.
- Tropical island guided adventure to K’gari’s spectacular lakes and rainforests.
- Hassle-free, seamless and flexible travel with a locally-designed itinerary.
Your Sample Itinerary
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Day 1 |
Welcome to Sydney!The city lights of Sydney are your departing destination as you begin the adventure of a lifetime. Embark on your journey to Byron Bay, where rolling coastlines and a gorgeous township awaits. If you’re looking for more time in Sydney, add on some pre-tour experiences and accommodation in this buzzing city! StayOvernight bus to Sydney |
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Day 2 & 3 |
Byron Bay surfingWake up to the sound of crashing waves in Byron Bay, a town renowned for chilled vibes, excellent surf and a sweet live music scene. Get out into the sunshine with a free day in Byron - we recommend a stroll around the farmer's markets, a coastal hike up to the lighthouse and a lazy afternoon by the beach. On day 3, hit the waves for a surf lesson! With excellent tutelage and a longboard, learn the basics of this quintessential Aussie sport! StayHostel in Byron Bay |
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Day 4 |
Brisbane exploringRoll up into Brisbane with a golden tan and discover this colourful city full of art, food and nightlife! Take a dip in Street's Beach, catch a ferry along the Brisbane River and grab a cocktail under the Story Bridge at Howard Smith Wharves. This is truly Brisvegas! StayCentral Brisbane hostel |
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Day 5 & 6 |
Coastal adventures in NoosaDiscover the Sunshine Coast at your own pace, with two free days in beachside paradise! Enjoy a famous wildlife experience with the optional choice to add a trip to Australia Zoo to your itinerary. Home to the renowned Crocodile Hunter, get a taste of the native Australian fauna such as koalas, kangaroos and more only found down under! Noosa is abundant in coastal biodiversity, so hit Main Beach for a swim, surf Tea Tree, hike through the National Park and unwind at your deluxe hostel! StayHostel in Sunshine Beach |
Trip Upgrade
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Day 7 |
Fraser Coast Region chillin'Spend a day enjoying Rainbow Beach, where the flourishing rainforest meets the beach. Whether you’re lounging on the sands, exploring surrounding hikes or adding a magical dolphin kayak tour to your list, it’s time to truly relax in paradise! StayRainbow Beach hostel |
Trip Upgrade
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Day 8 |
Discover K’gari (Fraser Island) on your guided 4WD tourCatch the barge over to the world’s largest sand island and dive into K’gari’s magic! With infinite possibilities, island life awaits and this special destination holds an abundance of natural marvels. Let your dreamy itinerary show you crystal-clear swims, cruisy beach scenes and exciting 4WD trips down abundant sandy stretches! Lake Mackenzie, Maheno Shipwreck and 75 Mile Beach are just the tip of your jam-packed itinerary today. StayRainbow Beach hostel |
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Day 9 |
Airlie Beach, here we come!Venture further north along the Queensland coast as you depart Rainbow Beach for the Whitsunday Region. On your journey to Airlie Beach, catch up on those zzz's, post some FOMO-inducing pics and get ready for your next tropical adventure! StayOvernight bus to Airlie Beach |
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Day 10 |
Welcome to Airlie BeachThe charming seaside town of Airlie Beach welcomes you! A renowned backpacker hub, step into the good vibes, bustling nightlife and colourful local character. Spend your day hanging out by the lagoon, meandering down the esplanade, trying out the foodie scene or discovering some cruisy local music! Then, check into your accommodation, before heading back out for an afternoon filled with good company and cocktails! StayHostel in central Airlie Beach |
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Day 11 |
Whitsunday Islands & Whitehaven BeachEmbark on the journey of a lifetime as you hit the sparkling Whitsunday Island waters on a fun, social day trip! Whether you’re a fan of dazzling sunsets, up for an adventure or looking to chase the best snorkel spots in the Great Barrier Reef, you’re bound to be living the try island life out here! Head up to Hill Inlet Lookout, swim in the turquoise waters of Whitehaven and unwind in tropical heaven! Return to Airlie Beach mainland and hit the town with a VIP afterparty, welcome drink included! StayHostel in central Airlie Beach |
Trip Upgrade
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Day 12 |
Cairns, here we come!Make your way to Cairns today, where tropical ecosystems, vibrant local atmospheres and impeccable reefs are nestled. Known as the gateway between the Great Barrier Reef and ancient rainforests, you won’t be disappointed by the marvels of Far North Queensland. Choose to break up the trip with a stop at the incredible Magnetic Island, where you can experience a Koala & Wildlife tour adventure. StayHostel in the heart of Cairns |
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Day 13 |
Great Barrier Reef AdventureDive in and explore the awestriking marinelife of the flourishing Great Barrier Reef! Here you will snorkel with sea turtles, tropical fish, dazzling corals and more as you delve into mystical underwater ecosystems! Either snorkel or scuba dive into the magnificent depths of ethereal underwater forests, fringing reefs and coral gardens. StayHostel in the heart of Cairns |
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Day 14 |
Adios in Cairns!Rise and shine in Cairns on the final day of your itinerary! After a coffee and a trip to Rusty's fruit market, check out of your hostel and make your own way from here. Thanks for the awesome time - it's been a blast! |
What's Included?
- Whitsundays sailing and snorkelling day trip
- Guided 4WD tour of K’gari (Fraser Island)
- Cairns Great Barrier Reef cruise
- Half-day Byron Bay surf lesson
- VIP Airlie Beach afterparty + welcome drink
- Free luggage storage in Airlie Beach
- Deluxe hostel accommodation
- All bus transport from Sydney to Cairns
- 3 lunches
- Guaranteed authentic adventures!
What's Extra?
Optional Trip Add-ons
- Australia Zoo Wildlife experience
- Rainbow Beach Dolphin Kayak
- Magnetic Island Wildlife Island adventure
Optional Trip Upgrades
- Van or rental car transport
- Private room upgrade
Terms and Conditions
Please read our terms, conditions and cancellation policies before booking your East Coast itinerary package.
FAQs
Who will I travel with?
This is not a group tour, so you only travel with whoever you book for. Whether that’s solo, with your partner, friend or group of your own choice, spend your downtime how you like and make memories with your tribe!
Whenever you embark on a tour during your itinerary (like your Whitsunday sailing trip or K'gari 4WD), rest assured that you will be on fun and adventurous backpacker-style tours.
Is this itinerary guided?
This is a semi-guided itinerary, meaning that professional skippers and tour guides lead any time spent on individual tours (like sailboats, 4WD camping tours, reef tours, and the likes). However, the in-between bits like travel days, downtime and free days are up to you.
That means nobody will be waking you up for your early bus or checking into hostels with you, however, it makes your time in Australia undeniably more personalised and flexible. Read more about our semi-guided itineraries in our FAQs or chat with a local travel agent to match you with your dream experience.
If you are looking to travel with a group of other backpackers and be guided through every leg of your journey by a local leader, check out our fully guided group itineraries.
Are meals included?
Three lunches are included in this itinerary, all of which are provided during your day trips. The rest of the meals are up to you, and you will have plenty of access to bars, restaurants, cafes and supermarkets along the East Coast.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, we strongly recommend that travellers purchase their own travel insurance before their East Coast trip. Travel insurance is not included in your package price, and East Coast Tours is not responsible for personal injury, operator cancellations or delays.
How much spending money do I need?
We recommend about $60 to $100 AUD spending money per day. This will cover you for a meal in a restaurant, a couple of beers and some supermarket supplies daily. For details on your daily spending budget in Australia, check out our budget travel guide!
Where will I stay?
You will stay in a variety of beachfront, poolside and city-centre hostels on this trip including 11 nights in deluxe hostel dorms (Byron Bay, Brisbane, Noosa, Rainbow Beach, Airlie Beach & Cairns) and 2 overnight buses.
Can I upgrade to private rooms rather than shared dorms?
Of course! If you prefer some privacy, you can absolutely upgrade to a private room. Please note that you will pay the difference from a shared dorm to a private room, and all accommodation is subject to availability. For a detailed estimate, chat with our friendly travel agents over live chat to secure your space.
What kind of transport is included?
Our itineraries include bus transport which is primarily a Greyhound Whimit Pass. Greyhound Busses are deluxe coaches with in-seat USB charging, wifi, reclining seats, air conditioning and onboard bathrooms. If you wish to upgrade your package, you can book a rental car or campervan through our friendly travel experts to go your own way!
Can I extend or personalise my itinerary?
Simply chat with our friendly travel agents to personalise your itinerary before you book. We wouldn't blame you for wanting longer in the Byron Bay surf or Airlie Beach sunshine!
Are the dates flexible?
Yes, the dates for this itinerary are flexible. Simply input your preferred arrival and departure dates before booking, or chat with our expert travel agents about your timeframe and we'll make it work for you!
Customer Reviews
James Church
Feb, 25 2024
James Church
Feb, 25 2024
I thought it was very well priced, made solo traveling very easy for me and Maurice was very helpful with quick replies for any issues experienced on my trip. 10/10 would definitely recommend
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