Airlie Beach + Islands
3-Day 4WD Tour
Great Barrier Reef Tour
Social Vessel
All Gear Provided
Hostels + Cabins + Camping
Make Friends For Life
18 Meals Provided
Say hello to Aussie adventures with our once-in-a-lifetime G’day Mates Sydney to Cairns Trip. Spend 4 weeks making your way along the incredible East Coast of Australia with a group of backpackers, with stops in Sydney, Byron Bay, Gold Coast, Noosa, K’gari (Fraser Island), Airlie Beach, Magnetic Island and Cairns!
Surf, snorkel, four-wheel drive, scuba dive, hike and dance in the most beautiful gems of Australia! You will spend your trip with a group of like-minded travellers, making core memories on this epic trip. With an exclusive WhatsApp group chat and group dinners peppered throughout your itinerary, this tour is the perfect balance of social fun in a group setting with independent travel. Popular amongst social backpackers and solo travellers, you're in for the trip of your life with this ultimate group itinerary. Be guided through UNESCO world wonders, with ample downtime to do things your way! All that is left is to pack the sunscreen and say g’day to your new mates - the East Coast awaits!
Day 1 |
Welcome to Sydney DinnerArrive in Sydney at your own pace today, making your way to your deluxe, central hostel where a local guide will meet you. Meet your group over a welcome dinner, where the city lights of Sydney grace your sights! Let the adventure begin! StayCentral Sydney Hostel in a shared dorm |
Trip Extension
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Day 2 |
Discover Sydney IconsFrom the monumental Sydney Harbour Bridge to the elegant arches of the Opera House and the white sands of Bondi Beach, tick off your Sydney bucket-list sights this morning with free time in Sydney! For more info, check out our handy guide to spending a day in Sydney. Then, depart the sparkling city of Sydney… next stop Byron Bay! StaySydney to Byron Bay overnight bus |
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Day 3 |
Byron Bay blissDiscover Byron Bay today with a free day in this bohemian paradise. From endless sandy shores to colourful palm-lined streets, encounter this character-filled town and relax! Explore with your new travel buddies, hit the beach for a yoga sesh, venture to the Byron Cape Lighthouse or create your own adventure with our insightful things to do in Byron Bay guide. StayCentral Byron Bay hostel in a shared dorm |
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Day 4 |
Hit the waves in ByronSurf’s up today as you head out to an iconic Byron Bay break and catch some waves! Your lesson is led by a qualified, experienced instructor and is perfect for any ability; from total beginner to intermediate surfer. Spend your afternoon grabbing a beer in a nearby pub with your group, with some local live music accompanying that post-beach-sunshine bliss… now this is living! StayCentral Byron Bay hostel in a shared dorm |
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Day 5 |
Byron Bay dolphin kayak or own adventureChoose your own adventure today, opting either for an optional add-on activity, the Byron Bay dolphin kayak! A popular upgrade for this trip, paddle out to the renowned Cape Byron and keep your eyes peeled for close encounters with turtles, dolphins and other local ocean creatures! Or enjoy a final day of Byron Bay chilling at your own pace! StayCentral Byron Bay hostel in a shared dorm |
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Day 6 |
Gold Coast boundWake up to another sun-soaked day as you venture from one surfer’s heaven to the next. Hop on your bus from Byron Bay to Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast. Here, golden sands, fun cityscapes and endless beach days await. Why not dive into the infamous Surfers Paradise nightlife scene with your new friends? StayCentral Surfers Paradise hostel in a shared dorm |
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Day 7 |
Golden Gold Coast adventuresWake up slowly, or wander down to the beach for a morning sunrise and swim! Today is totally up to you, whether you want to slow down and chill out in classic Gold Coast fashion, or make the most of Surfers Paradise, it’s up to you! With something for everyone, discover the local boutiques, head out for a surf, indulge in local fare or embark on a fun add-on tour! StayCentral Surfers Paradise hostel in a shared dorm |
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Day 8 |
En route to NoosaDepart the sunny Surfers Paradise for the equally idyllic shores of Noosa. A beloved holiday and surf spot amongst locals and backpackers alike, the days melt into a haze of salty swims, sandy walks, soft sunsets and post-surf acai bowls here! Arrive at your hostel and venture to Hastings Street for a laid-back afternoon with your group! StayDeluxe, beachy hostel in Noosa |
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Day 9 |
Noosa dreamingFrom National Parks to gorgeous, crystal-clear waters, discover the natural marvels of Noosa today with this things to do guide. Or, elevate your time on the Sunshine Coast and book a day trip out to Steve Irwin’s iconic Australia Zoo, or a kayak experience through the Noosa Everglades. The Noosa Everglades are a lesser-known sight on the Sunny Coast, but a total hidden gem, as one of just two everglade ecosystems in the world! Reconvene at your fantastic local hostel for some downtime or a drink with your friends! StayDeluxe, beachy hostel in Noosa |
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Day 10 & 11 |
Rainbow BeachDepart the shores of Noosa for Rainbow Beach today, your gateway to K’gari (Fraser Island) and a gorgeous, beachside town. Here, you can opt to head to the beach for the afternoon before you grab a drink or dinner at a local pub with your mates! The marvels of Rainbow Beach await, so dive into a relaxed free day of sand, salt and summertime bliss! Head to the nearby Carlo Sandblow for incredible sand dune formations and ocean vistas out of a postcard, sunbake and swim at the local beach or take some time to catch up on your laundry and have some R&R on this jampacked experience. StayRainbow Beach hostel in a shared dorm |
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Day 12 - 14 |
K’gari (Fraser Island) 3-Day, 2-Night 4WD TourA bright and early start will have you catching the ferry over to the world’s largest sand island: K’gari (formerly called Fraser Island). Here, three days and two nights exploring gem-coloured lakes, gorgeous sandy stretches and ancient rainforests. Itinerary highlights of this tour include Lake Mackenzie, Central Station, Maheno Shipwreck, Lake Wabby and 75 Mile Beach. Your transport around the island is an iconic 4WD, from which you can spot dingoes and zoom along sandy highways! Rest your head at a tranquil campsite with excellent facilities, starry nights and campfire chats. K’gari translates from the native Butchulla language to literally mean paradise, discover the magic, adventure and beauty that is abundant on this gorgeous island! StayNight 12 & 13 - deluxe K’gari campsite Night 14 - Rainbow Beach hostel in a shared dorm |
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Day 15 |
From Rainbow to Airlie Beach, the WhitsundaysVenture to North Queensland today as you journey up to Airlie Beach. The hub of the Whitsunday region and gateway to the 74 beautiful Whitsunday Islands, you’ll find pristine beaches, secluded bays and lush islands in this corner of the world! StayOvernight bus from Rainbow Beach to Airlie Beach |
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Day 16 |
Airlie Beach chillin’Wake up in tropical heaven with a free day in Airlie Beach. Renowned as a backpacker oasis, with a laidback small-town charm combined with colourful nightlife and bars lining Main Street, find your groove in this unique Aussie destination! Can’t wait to discover the plethora of islands just off the mainland? Add on an exhilarating jet ski or skydive experience or a day trip to the luxe Hamilton Island for some cocktails from the poolside bar! StayCentral Airlie Beach hostel in a shared dorm |
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Day 17 - 19 |
Whitsunday Island Sailing tourArrive nice and early at the meeting point for your exciting 2-day, 2-night sailing trip! Board your deluxe vessel with your group and meet other fellow fun-loving backpackers and your friendly crew. Set sail towards the Whitsundays, stopping at Tongue Bay for a scenic hike to Hill Inlet lookout, with its breathtaking views of Whitehaven Beach. Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner on board while anchored in a lively bay, soaking in the social atmosphere and the dazzling night sky. Wake up to a hearty breakfast on the boat and head to Whitehaven Beach for swimming and sunbathing on the pristine sands. Spend the afternoon snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef's vibrant coral gardens, exploring the rich marine life. Enjoy another delightful evening meal on the boat, sharing stories and laughs with new friends under the stars. The next morning, savour a leisurely breakfast before a final swim or snorkel session, then sail back to Airlie Beach, filled with unforgettable memories and new friendships. Head to Mama Africa's where free entry and a boat afterparty await with friends new and old! StayNight 17 & 18 - Comfortable shared cabin aboard a state-of-the-art sailing yacht Night 19 - Central Airlie Beach hostel in a shared dorm |
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Day 20 |
Last day in Airlie BeachEnjoy a chill final day in Airlie. Wander along Main Street, alive with vibrant bars and unique shops, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Or, pick a sunny spot by the Airlie Beach lagoon and chill out with a swim and good book! If you didn’t take advantage of the array of add-on activities, opt for a skydive, jet ski, Hamilton Island trip or wildlife experience today! Enjoy your last day, soaking up the laid-back atmosphere and creating lasting memories with your mates. StayCentral Airlie Beach hostel in a shared dorm |
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Day 21 & 22 |
Magnetic Island adventuringA total hidden island gem just off of Townsville, Magnetic Island is a beachy paradise. Hop on the ferry and arrive to views of serene bays, secluded palmy caves, turquoise waters and rocky walkways. Here, you can decide how you spend your two days with your group. Choose to rent a 4WD or scooter to explore the island, visiting Horseshoe Bay for water sports and relaxing on its sandy shores. Hike the Forts Walk for stunning views and history and cuddle a koala at Bungalow Bay Koala Village, snorkel at Geoffrey Bay and join a sea kayak tour. Or, check out our favourite free things to do on Magnetic Island and do it your way! StayBeachfront hostel on Magnetic Island in a shared dorm |
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Day 23 |
On the road to Cairns!Your last travel leg of the trip has come, so hop on the ferry back to the mainland, and then catch your bus from Townsville to Cairns. The Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest and tropical marvels are just around the corner, so settle in with a good podcast, fill in your travel journal and enjoy the ride! StayCentral hostel in Cairns in a shared dorm |
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Day 24 |
Great Barrier Reef Scuba & Snorkel tourEmbark on an unforgettable day trip from Cairns to the Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef system. Board a modern vessel and head to vibrant dive sites teeming with marine life. Snorkel or scuba dive among colourful coral formations, encountering exotic fish and even sea turtles. Enjoy a delicious lunch onboard before relaxing on the sun deck. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site before returning to Cairns, sunkissed and filled with awe at the underwater marvels of tropical North Queensland. StayCentral hostel in Cairns in a shared dorm |
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Day 25 & 26 |
Explore Cairns or add-on Daintree & Adrenaline activitiesRelax and explore the vibrant wonders of Cairns. With an array of epic things to do, a fun backpacker scene and a laid-back township, you can hang out with your group and unwind by the lagoon. Or, if you’re looking to make the most in Far North Queensland, opt for extra activities. On day 25, you can add on an additional Atherton Tablelands Waterfall Day Tour or Daintree Rainforest Day Trip. On day 26, get your adrenaline up with an optional bungy jump or white water rafting experience! Whatever you choose, enjoy the tropics under the sun! StayCentral hostel in Cairns in a shared dorm |
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Day 27 |
Cairns hangs & farewell dinner
A final free day in Cairns is yours! So, head on down to Rusty’s Fruit Market, wander around the Cairns Art Gallery or go for a walk along the esplanade. Reconvene for a delicious farewell dinner with your group, and swap photos and your fave memories from the month of adventuring along the East Coast! StayCentral hostel in Cairns in a shared dorm |
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Day 28 |
Check-out & onward travelToday is your last day in Cairns, so wake up and check out of your accommodation, say goodbye to your travel mates and continue your journey! If you need a hand organising your onward travel, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our local travel agents who can book any extra accommodation, transfers or tours for you! |
Trip Extension
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Upcoming Trips Departures: 4 Nov 2024, 18 Nov 2024
Travel Insurance
Add-on Activities
Trip Upgrades
Trip Extensions
Please read our terms, conditions and cancellation policies before booking your East Coast itinerary package.
A G’day Mates East Coast Tour is a semi-guided Aussie adventure, with transport, accommodation and tours included. Striking the perfect middle ground of easy group travel with unique, independent experiences, this trip is perfect for adventurers who don’t want to feel like a tourist but also appreciate easy, pre-organised trips. Plus, you’re bound to make friends with other like-minded travellers from all over the world!
Upcoming departure dates for this tour include:
You will travel with a small, fun group of other adventure travellers aged 18 years and up, with friendly group leaders and guides at various parts of your trip. This itinerary is designed for backpackers and is perfect for solo travellers, couples or small groups looking to make friends and have a blast exploring the East Coast!
This tour is semi-guided, meaning that any tours (like your Whitsunday sail, K'gari 4WD camping tour and Cairns Reef Trip) will be guided by local professionals. Similarly, you will be greeted in Sydney by a local East Coast Tour guide to ensure you arrive seamlessly! However, the in-between bits like catching the coach and making use of your free days, will be up to you and your group. We'll organise a WhatsApp group exclusively for your G'day Mates cohort, ensuring you can do all of the fun stuff together!
This itinerary comes with a Greyhound Whimit bus pass that allows travel up the East Coast for the duration of your trip. The Greyhound Bus is decked out with reclining chairs, in-seat charging, wifi, aircon and an onboard toilet.
Please note that it is your responsibility to arrive at the pickup locations and catch the Greyhound, as there will be no guide for these parts of the trip. You can coordinate your travels with your group via the WhatsApp chat!
It is compulsory to have travel insurance for the entire duration of this itinerary.
18 meals are provided throughout the itinerary, including your group welcome and farewell dinners at local restaurants.
The rest of the meals are up to you, and you will have plenty of access to bars, restaurants and supermarkets along the East Coast.
Check out our ultimate East Coast packing list for everything you need to bring along.
You will spend:
Please advise our travel agents as soon as possible when booking this trip to ensure your dietaries can be catered to where possible. Please note that some tours charge small fees to cover the cost of accommodating dietary requirements.