6 Week Melbourne To Cairns Ultimate

Day 1 

Make the Melbourne to Sydney trip!

Jump straight into motion on your jam-packed East Coast adventure with a trip from Melbourne to the dazzling lights of Sydney. Get some rest, ready for an awesome stint in Sydney where iconic sights and quiet landscapes await!

Day 2

Sydney sights & beaches

Wake up in the bustling city of Sydney! Check into your hostel, wander through the bustling CBD, check out the Harbour, take a trip over to Luna Park, strike a pose outside of the Opera House and relax on the shores of Bondi Beach… there really is so much to do in the iconic streets of Sydney! 

Day 3

Hike the stunning Blue Mountains

Pull on your hiking boots and trek out to the gorgeous Blue Mountains. A unique, lesser-known stop on your East Coast road trip, get back to nature on this awestriking and grounding day in the bush! Head up to Three Sisters for vast views over the lush Jamison Valley, as your local guide illuminates the deep Indigenous connection and history of this beautiful landscape.

Day 4 & 5

Look at you, a Sydney local!

Head back to the city for two free days of leisure in this bustling hub! There is no lack of places to see, sights to visit, friends to meet and food to eat, so strap in for an awesome couple of days, your way! Whether you’re beach bumming it with Bondi lifeguards, stopping at the Fish Markets, climbing the Harbour Bridge or unwinding with your new travel friends, take it easy like a local with our Sydney things to do guide!

Day 6

On the road to Byron Bay!

You’re heading to Byron Bay today, so buckle in and post some of your Sydney snapshots to Instagram as you continue north to the famous, bohemian streets of this trendy beach town!

Day 7 - 11

Byron Bay surf lessons, dolphin kayaking & Nimbin exploring!

Land in the eclectic streets of Byron Bay and spend day 7 exploring, chilling at the beach and enjoying the many delicious foods here in town! On day 8, wake up bright and early and get in the waves with a half-day surf lesson… you’ll be shredding like a pro in no time! Then on day 9, you have a unique sea adventure to embark on! Your dolphin kayak tour will take you around the headland and alongside these beautiful creatures as you’re guided by a local professional! Day 10 holds a quintessential day trip out to the neighbouring town of Nimbin, where music, psychedelic art and good vibes await. Finally, on day 11, revel in the magic of Byron Bay your way with another full free day in paradise… a trip up to the lighthouse is definitely in order!

Trip Extension

• Surf more with 2 - 7 day surf camps in Byron Bay

Day 12 & 13

Surf’s up in Surfers Paradise!

You’re en route to the Gold Coast today, so buckle up for some serious fun under the sun! This backpacker city is where nightlife meets beach life, so get amongst the social vibes and great music! Spend your days by the sea and nights under the stars in this vibrant and happening destination!

Day 14 & 15

Brisbane city lights

Head further north to Brisbane to continue the good vibes in sunny Brisbane! This urban hub is home to the winding Brisbane River (or the brown snake, as the locals call it), ample pubs and cafes, cute little nooks and awesome free things to do! So, hop on a CityCat or lime scooter and explore this funky city!

Day 16 - 19

Noosa Everglade kayak tour & Australia Zoo

Arrive in the beautiful coastlines of Noosa on day 16 of your itinerary and be welcomed by a deluxe, central hostel! Head straight to Noosa Main Beach for a quintessential arvo on the beach. Day 17 holds some pretty magical adventures, so get ready to reconnect with nature. You will be guided through the Noosa Everglades, a total hidden gem and one of just two glade ecosystems in the world! Explore the river of mirrors by kayak, spot Aussie wildlife and swim in bright blue swimming holes! On day 18, check out the Sunshine Coast’s iconic Australia Zoo, home of the late Steve Irwin; wildlife warrior and Aussie legend! Cuddle koalas, watch a crocodile feed show and rub shoulders with an array of different native creatures! Day 19 is the perfect day to beach it up and catch up on some laundry with a free day!

Day 20 & 21

Rainbow Beach relaxing!

Your northbound journey continues as you hit the dazzling sands of Rainbow Beach! This sleepy beach town is the epitome of that beach bum lifestyle, so soak up the sun, explore the geographical wonders around you and get ready for the next chapter of your East Coast adventure; an overnight camping 4WD on K’gari (Fraser Island)!

Day 22, 23 & 24

K’gari (Fraser Island) camping adventure!

Wake up bright and early to catch the ferry over the K’gari (Fraser Island); the largest sand island in the world! Laden with stunning rainforest settings, open beaches, secluded bays and freshwater lakes, you will explore the best of Australia’s National Parks on this experience! 4WD down golden highways, swim in the turquoise waters of Lake Mackenzie, hike through Pile Valley, float down Eli Creek and explore the historic Maheno Shipwreck! Let your local guide take you to incredible hidden gems on this social, jam-packed tour. And, in the evenings, settle into your starlit campsite for fireside chats and delicious meals!

Day 25

Overnight bus to Airlie Beach

Head back to the mainland and settle in for the drive from the Sunshine Coast to Airlie Beach. Your next stop is the lush Whitsunday region, so relax and unwind as you enter the abundant Far North Queensland! 

Day 26

Get to know the buzzing Airlie Beach

Arrive in the backpacker town of Airlie Beach and be welcomed by a busy esplanade, colourful main street and countless bars, pubs and live music venues! Your hostel is in the middle of the action, so check in before taking a dip in the lagoon, going on a nearby hike or grabbing a cocktail with a gorgeous waterfront view!

Trip Upgrade

• Scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef

Day 27, 28 & 29

Whitsunday Island sailing!

Ahoy there sailor, it’s time to board your decadent two-day, two-night Whitsunday Island tour! Your expert and friendly crew will guide your group to the best beaches, snorkelling spots and inlets of this breathtaking island paradise! From the bright white sands of Whitehaven Beach to the swirling views of Hill Inlet to the magnificent turtles of the Great Barrier Reef to starlit dining aboard a grand sailing vessel, get your tropical fix out at sea! Your trip is designed for backpackers, featuring a social atmosphere and great tunes at night so you can live it up in paradise! Return back to the mainland on the third day to an exclusive tour afterparty, where VIP free entry and drink discounts await your group and crew at the hottest club in Airlie Beach! 

Day 30

Airlie Beach vibes!

Wake up and take it easy (nurse that hangover if you have to), with a swim in the lagoon and a slow day in paradise! Whether you’re keen to enjoy some local seafood, want to go bush and get amongst the many local trails around you or simply want to hang out in town at your hostel, the world’s your oyster with one last day in Airlie Beach!

Day 31, 32 & 33

Magnetic Island chillin’

Make the journey to Townsville, where you will catch the ferry to the palm-lined shores of Magnetic Island; a true tropical oasis! With a mighty fine selection of exquisite beaches, magical rock pools, bars and even a local koala sanctuary, chill out in paradise like the island royalty you truly are! 

Day 34, 35 & 36

Mission Beach Skydiving & White Water Rafting

Mission Beach is a total hub, where rolling bays and beautiful beaches meet a bustling tropical township. Spend day 34 exploring and wandering at your own pace, soaking in the cruisy vibes all-too-common in the beautiful Far North Queensland! Then, on day 35, suit up and get ready for an adrenaline-packed thrill as you skydive over sprawling tropical landscapes! Your final day in Mission Beach is all about adventure and natural wonders as you hit incredible local rainforests and rapids for an exciting white water rafting tour! 

Day 37

Cairns, here we come! 

Arrive at your ultimate destination and unwind after a huge few days of awesome tours and experiences! Lounge by the lagoon, do some laundry, eat some delicious food or relax by the pool at your deluxe hostel… the choice is yours! The next few days are full of incredible tours that will showcase everything Cairns has to offer, to rest up and recharge.

Day 38

Scuba dive & snorkel the Great Barrier Reef

Dive into the Great Barrier Reef and immerse yourself in one of the world’s seven natural wonders! Your day tour includes all gear, tutelage, food, and most importantly access to the best, flourishing reefs in the world! Spot turtles, giant clams, coral gardens, schools of fish and more quirky marinelife as you journey deeper into the dazzling colours of the Great Barrier Reef!

Day 39

We’re waterfallin’ in love with the Atherton Tablelands!

Contrary to some popular advice, today we are indeed going to be chasing waterfalls! Head out to the lush, green Atherton Tablelands and become a forest fairy for a day of hidden gems exploring. From the grand falls at Millaa Millaa to the gentle cascades of Josephine Falls, you’re bound to get lots of tranquil swims, astonishing pictures and serene memories in Far North Queensland!

Day 40

Venture to Cape Tribulation & the Daintree Rainforest

For your final guided tour in Cairns, embark on the journey to Cape Tribulation. An unforgettable point on your itinerary, this is where the world’s oldest rainforest intersects with the magical Great Barrier Reef. If you’re seeking natural wonder, there really is no better place to explore than Cape Tribulation. Wander inland for an illuminating trek through the ancient Daintree Rainforest, where you will be taught about this biodiverse slice of the environment and its Indigenous histories.

Day 41

Cairns leisure time & farewells! 

Spend your last day in Cairns as you wish; whether that’s getting back on the reef, relaxing by the lagoon or simply chilling out with your new travel buddies. A final beachside sunrise is in order as you appreciate the marvels that this rich corner of the world holds. On day 42, check out of your hostel at mid-morning and continue on your journey, whenever it may leave you!