1 Week Brisbane To Cairns Budget

Day 1 

Hello Brisbane!

Arrive in colourful meanjin (Brisbane) with its city lights and wicked backpacker scene. From here, you're en route to dazzling Rainbow Beach, where beachy days and sparkling saltwater await. Hop on the bus and check in to your beachy hostel digs in the afternoon. Welcome to the East Coast! 

Day 2

Embark on your 4WD K'gari experience

The world’s largest sand island, K’gari (Fraser Island), is blossoming with some of the most beautiful marvels we’ve ever witnessed! From jewel-coloured freshwater lakes to sparkling beaches and tropical rainforests, this island holds both natural and historical magic. So, jump into your 4WD day trip and zoom down 75 Mile Beach as your K’gari adventure begins! Lunch, lake swims and local guidance are all included.

Day 3 

A big Airlie Beach welcome 

Wake up to Airlie Beach’s rolling beaches, coastal views and bustling town centre! Renowned as a backpacker hub and a gateway to the Whitsundays, spend your day lounging by the Airlie Beach lagoon, delving into the fresh foodie scene or on a local hike! We recommend winding your day down with a beer accompanied by some quintessential live music in the Airlie main strip.

Day 4

Discover the Great Barrier Reef and Whitehaven Beach

The marvels of Whitsunday Island await, so grab your swimmers and sense of adventure! A zooming day boat is bound to get you in the holiday mood. Enjoy a bushwalk up to Hill Inlet Lookout and gaze out at the mosaic of swirling sands, before relaxing on one of the world’s best beaches: Whitehaven Beach! Then, snorkel the warm waters of the Great Barrier Reef as colourful coral beds, with sparkling fish and majestic sea turtles swirl around you. Return to the mainland, freshen up and head out on a night of dancing and utter fun with access to an exclusive afterparty included in your vessel ticket! We’re talking discounted drinks and free entry into one of Airlie Beach’s favourite clubs. Let’s boogy! 

Day 5

En route to Cairns

Hop back on your bus and venture to sunny Cairns. Arrive in the hub of Far North Queensland in the afternoon, ready for your final leg of tropical adventuring! Mosey along the foreshore, grab a rooftop cocktail if you wish, and welcome the adventure!

Day 6

Scuba dive to the depths of the Great Barrier Reef

With flourishing reefs renowned for their unbeatable colours and marine life, Cairns is a real hub for lovers of the deep blue. So, don a scuba tank and embark on your intro to scuba diving, where experienced divers will train you in the very basics of scuba. Perfect for all knowledge levels, you will learn a new skill as well as get in and amongst some of the most breathtaking marine ecosystems in the southern hemisphere. Our best tip… don’t forget the GoPro to capture your Finding Nemo moments! 

Day 7

Cairns free day & farewell!

Wake up for a coffee and brunch in Cairns, before checking out of your hostel. The road is infinite and all yours as your Aussie East Coast itinerary comes to a close, so pave your own path. Or, for a few more days of rainforest adventuring, extend your time in Cairns! Whatever is next, we hope you've got awesome memories and a golden tan to remember your coastal journey!