This girls-only East Coast adventure follows the exact same itinerary as our popular 5-Week Ultimate East Coast Explorer, which is open to all genders and designed for travellers aged 18–35. Same epic route. Same inclusions. Same unforgettable experiences. The difference is how you travel it.
These departures run on select dates and are made for anyone who wants to experience the East Coast alongside a crew of other girls, with a female Ultimate Group Leader and exclusive female-only dorm accommodation throughout the trip.
You’ll still be right in the mix socially. On activities, transport days, overnight sailing trips, and in hostel social areas, you’ll regularly cross paths with other Ultimate groups and travellers from all over the world. Think shared coaches, buzzing hostels, group tours, and big social energy — without sacrificing the comfort and vibe of travelling with your own all-girls crew.
Best of both worlds:
Same adventure. Same chaos. Same memories.
Just with a girls-only crew doing it together.
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Your Ultimate East Coast Explorer kicks off in Sydney with a guided city tour and an orientation at Ultimate HQ. Spend the afternoon meeting your new girl gang and settling in before we hit the road on our epic East Coast adventure. We’ll travel overnight by coach, complete with WiFi and comfy reclining seats, so kick back, relax, and get ready for five unforgettable weeks discovering the very best of Australia’s stunning East Coast.
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We arrive in Byron Bay this morning, the boho babe of the East Coast. Spend the day exploring the town, relaxing on beautiful beaches, and soaking up those laid-back surf vibes with your girl gang. You’ll jump into a fun, professional surf lesson and be riding waves in no time.
Start your day with morning yoga, enjoy free time to explore, and get amongst the hostel’s evening events. We’ll also visit the iconic Byron Bay Lighthouse for stunning ocean views at Australia’s most easterly point. Want more? Go dolphin kayaking or chase waterfalls and hidden beaches nearby (optional add-ons).
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Next stop: Surfers Paradise – where the city meets the sea. Famous for epic waves, golden beaches and nonstop nightlife, Surfers is a true East Coast fave. We’ll explore the town and beach it up, then choose your own adventure: theme park thrills at Dreamworld, get jump on the well-known Aquapark, surfing or jet boating (optional add-ons).
The next day is all about poolside chilling, sunshine and city exploring. Don’t miss a visit to Q1, Australia’s tallest building, for unreal views to top it all off.
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We hop on the bus and head to Brisbane! We’ll check out the city’s highlights, from the iconic Streets Beach to South Bank, Brisbane’s buzzing cultural hub. As night falls, enjoy a fun night out with the girls, see Story Bridge glowing after dark or belt it out at karaoke.
Feeling adventurous or looking for a husband (AKA Robert Irwin)? You can opt to visit the famous Australia Zoo! Or check out and snorkel the shipwrecks of Moreton Island (optional add-ons).
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Our next stop is Noosa- all lush greenery, cute wildlife and stunning beaches. We’ll arrive in the afternoon and ease into island time with beach hangs and a sunset you won’t forget. The next day, we’ll hike along the coastal headlands for unreal ocean views, check out the fairy pools and keep an eye out for koalas.
After that, the day is yours: relax by the pool, grab a free surfboard or boogie board from the hostel, or enjoy a couple of drinks at a local bar before diving into the hostel’s free evening events.
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Our next stop is Rainbow beach, the gateway to our K’gari adventure! Check into our hostel prepare for the adventure of a lifetime. Upon return to Rainbow Beach you will have a guided walk to the Carlo Sand Blow, a unique sand mass where you can watch the sunset over the southern tip of K’gari! The rest of the day is free for you to chill on the beach, explore Rainbow or relax by the hostel pool.
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Ready to explore the world’s largest sand island? Today, we will begin our K’gari (Fraser Island) adventure, exploring this vast island in a 4×4! We will drive on the beach highway, take a dip in the amazing clear waters of Lake McKenzie, bathe in the champagne pools, and see many other unique landscapes on the island. We’ll be spending the 2 nights here in our own private campsite, just a few metres from the beach, so kick back and disconnect from the outside world!
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Check into your hostel before heading out to explore tropical Airlie Beach, taking a dip in the famous harbourfront lagoon. Enjoy multiple days here and make sure you don’t miss out on the Scenic Flight over The Great Barrier Reef and Whitehaven Beach, or jump on the back of a jet ski to zip around The Whitsundays themselves. After our Whitsundays sailing adventure we will come back here to celebrate with the crew at the after boat party before heading to our next destination.
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It’s time for our Whitsundays adventure! For the next few days, we’ll be sailing around these jaw-dropping islands on our own boat – yes, actual paradise. We’ll sleep onboard, get comfy, sip drinks, enjoy delicious meals and soak up the unreal scenery.
Think crystal-clear snorkelling spots, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, golden sunsets, and quality time with your girls. Absolute pinch-me moments. After two unforgettable days at sea, we’ll head back to Airlie Beach for the iconic after boat party.
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You’re in for a treat as we spend the next few days exploring Magnetic Island – home to wild koalas, wallabies, and golden sandy beaches. Snorkel in the pristine island waters, take the guided Fort’s walk offering incredible views of the island and chill at the beach front hostel. Want to explore the rest of the island? Rent a 4×4 ‘Topless jeep’ and drive around the island with your mates (available for hire)!
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Our next stop is Mission beach, where the rainforest meets the sea. We recommend exploring the neighbouring National Park, traditional country of The Djiru Aboriginal people. If you’re up for a bit of adrenaline action, you have the option of joining an awesome white water rafting adventure in Tully (add-on). Mission beach is also home to Australia’s highest skydive (15,000ft!), so if you’re feeling adventurous and brave – get signed up (add-on). Fly over the reef, jump out a plane and land on the beach. Awesome!
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Our East Coast Adventure ends in Cairns – the Ultimate backpacker destination, home to the Great Barrier Reef and gateway to the Rainforest. Our first full day in Cairns will be spent on a day trip to the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef! We’ll take a boat to the outer reef and snorkel around the vibrant coral, encountering turtles, stingrays and maybe even Nemo – an experience you’ll never forget! We will be exploring the Tablelands region, chilling under waterfalls and sliding down natural rock slides. The final two days are open for you to explore Cairns as it has ample activities for you to do – Cape Tribulation, canyoning, bungy jumping and more! Soak up the sun while you reminisce on the past 5 week of adventure with your new mates!
The Ultimate East Coast Australia Explorer tour includes 33 nights accommodation and 2 overnight buses.
To make your booking, select your chosen departure date and any optional extras you would like to book. If you are unsure about optional extras or if you need additional accommodation before or after your tour, you can let us know later via email.
We'll send you a booking confirmation as well as important information about your tour. You can make payments on your tour balance sooner, or regularly, via our website here. A non refundable 5.25% booking processing fee applies to each booking, calculated on the value of your booking.
Travelling solo? Great! Most of the people you meet on tour will also be on a solo adventure! If you are curious as to who you could be travelling with, or want to make some friends before arriving, join our Travel Community and reach out to your potential new travel mates!
Booking with ULTIMATE is easy! We take payments securely via Mastercard or Visa Credit and Debit Card and we will charge you in Australian Currency (AUD). Your deposit is flexible and if you can no longer travel, you can save your deposit for a later trip or destination if you notify us 30 days before your scheduled tour date.
Making your booking is easy. Choose a date below, and if you have any questions about extras, deposits, or meeting other travellers, just get in touch — we're happy to help.
Where does the tour start and finish?
The Ultimate East Coast Australia Explorer (5 Week) and Explorer + Sydney (6 Week) start in Sydney on Mondays (Thursdays or Saturdays) at 11.30am and ends in Cairns on Mondays (Thursdays or Saturdays) at 10am. At the end of your adventure your Group Leader can help you to arrange onward travel. Main Tour Meeting Point: WakeUp Hostel Sydney Central at 11.30am. Tour End Point: Gilligan’s Hostel and Resort Cairns at 10am on checkout.
Who will I be travelling with?
You’ll be travelling with a group of 18-30-somethings girlypops from all over the world, and a female ULTIMATE Group Leader. Group sizes vary but you can generally expect to travel with a group of approximately 10-20 people.
Where will I be staying?
We stay at some of the most popular hostels along the Australian East Coast. All prices are based on shared accommodation in 4 – 12 share dorm style rooms. Hostel accommodation on these tour dates are female-only dorm rooms. Twin and private room upgrades are available to book but are subject to availability and single supplement charges. Note: Twin and Private room upgrades are not available on the Whitsundays, Fraser Island or overnight buses. Twin and Single room upgrades may still have shared bathroom facilities. Please note: Whitsundays 2 night Sailing Trip, K’gari 4×4 configurations and transport to each destination will not be guaranteed female only.
Can I book any extras with my trip?
Various activity add-ons on your way up the East Coast coast including: Skydive, Bungy Jump, white Water Rafting, Waterfall tours and More! You are able to add your extras to your experience when making your booking or you can book with your Group Leader once the tour commences. A full list of optional activities is made available to you prior to your tour starting. Please note that optional activities are subject to availability and additional booking terms and conditions.
What is an orientation walk?
We include an Orientation Walk at most stops of our itinerary. It is a short and guided walk with your group leader when you arrive at a new destination. It’s designed to help you get your bearings, understand the layout of the area, and learn where everything is. We’ll show you key landmarks, main streets, transport points, and local hangouts. You’ll also get insider tips on food, nightlife, activities, and the best ways to spend your free time. Our Orientation Walks are not formal, history heavy tours. While we’ll share some fun facts and local insights, the focus is on helping you experience the destination rather than providing an in depth historical guide. Most Orientation Walks take around 10 to 30 minutes depending on the destination. Orientation Walks are included in most itinerary stops where it adds value and helps you get familiar with the destination.
Can I book extra nights?
If you need additional nights before or after your Ultimate East Coast Australia Explorer tour, just add them to your booking when you checkout. Not sure if you need extra nights? Get in touch to chat with a member of the crew before or after you book. If you are arriving early into Sydney or want to explore more of the harbour city before starting your trip, book our 6 Week East Coast Explorer tour which includes an entire week in Sydney prior to connecting with the 5 Week East Coast Explorer tour.
Can you help me organise flights & insurance?
We are unable to book flights, but we always recommend using online search engines to research the best available flight routes, prices and times. To ease your experience, we suggest booking via a Travel Agent or directly with your preferred airline. Travel insurance is required to participate in this tour. We recommend that you find and compare various policies to ensure you have an appropriate level of coverage for you adventure. Not sure where to start? You can find some trusted Travel Insurers here.
Are there any extra fees?
We have done our best to include all fees and charges but there are some key touring components that are required to be paid on arrival whilst on tour. Fraser Island Insurance Fee ($20 AUD) – Paid direct on arrival Fraser Island Sleeping Bag Hire ($10AUD) – Paid direct if required Great Barrier Reef Conservation Levy ($20 AUD) Paid direct on arrival Whitsundays National Park EMC Levy ($30 AUD) Paid direct on arrival Optional Activity Levies – Whilst on tour, various local activity operators may charge a levy that is to be paid direct on the day your activity takes place. These will be communicated to you when booking any optional activities. A local ‘levy’ is generally a tax or administration fee.
Are meals included?
Australia has no shortage of incredible food and when travelling on our East Coast tours, we make sure we include some iconic Australian BBQs. Please refer to the tour itinerary and inclusions for a list of included meals, but please note that meals are generally not included and we recommend you account for meals and drinks in your budgeting
Is an airport transfer included?
An airport shuttle on arrival is included. During the booking process, or once you have booked your flights, supply us with your full flight details and we’ll arrange the shuttle to take you to the tour meeting point. You can arrive up to three days before your tour starts and we’ll ensure a transfer is available to you. Closer to the start of your tour we’ll supply you with details on where to go at the airport to meet your transfer. If you do not receive this email at least one week before your tour then please contact us.
What is a fully guided tour?
A fully guided tour means ALL the stress of travel is taken out so you can really enjoy your time! No making phone calls, waiting around, writing emails or using confusing apps. You have a group leader with you the whole time! Our group leaders will let you know where you need to be, when you need to be there, book any extra activities for you, give recommendations, teach you abour each area and the history on Australia and so much more. All of our group leaders are first-aid trained and are experts on everything East Coast Australia.
When is the best time to explore australia?
The great thing is, there is no bad time to travel to Australia! The country is so vast that depending when and where you plan on travelling you’re always likely to hit some sun! At certain times of the year there can be tropical storms in some locations across Australia, there can be hot, humid weather and there can be beautiful sunny skies with a cooler breeze. As you’ll be travelling such a wide area from South to North you are likely to experience a bit of everything. Please Note – We cannot predict the weather and cannot guarantee perfect days, but we will do our best to make the most of days when Mother Nature isn’t in our favour!
Is there free time on this tour?
Yes! Our East Coast Explorer tour range is suited to travellers who want to travel at a reasonable pace and tailor their experience to their preferences. Each stop along our journey to Cairns will have some free time for you to explore with our group and on your own.
Can I travel with special dietary requirements?
In most cases, we can cater to Vegetarian and Gluten Free diets. We will make every effort to cater to all other diets and needs, but we are unable to guarantee this will be possible in every location we visit. Unfortunately we can not cater for tastes or dislikes. We will ask you to re-confirm any dietary requirements with your Group Leader at the start of your trip.
Can I travel with a medical condition?
If you have an existing medical condition or disability that may affect your trip or how we deliver our experience, we ask that you inform us in writing at the time of your booking. You may be asked to obtain a medical certificate and if we reasonably feel we are unable to accommodate your particular needs, we reserve the right to decline your booking.
How much spending money do I need?
On our Group Tours, your transport and accommodation along with the meals and activities listed on the itinerary are all included in your tour price. While you are travelling you may wish to participate in additional activities which you will need to budget for. While travelling you may wish to eat and drink out or you may plan to cook and prepare some of your own meals. As a guide, we recommend you budget an additional $80 – $100 AUD per day for spending money. Please note that all travellers are different and you may wish to travel with additional spending money. There are amazing optional activities and food options on offer on the East Coast and if you desire to experience most of them, you may wish to budget for additional spending money.
Who is this trip designed for?
Our East Coast Explorer tours are designed for travellers 18-35 that wish to experience the best of the East Coast. Some travellers will be on Gap Years and others will be on short holiday breaks looking to have fun, meet new people and experience Australia. Our tours are Social and Fun and our itineraries are designed for those who are eager to travel and experience their ULTIMATE Travel Moment. You should join us if you are looking to meet other travellers, make the most of every moment and experience the best of the East Coast. This tour is specifically designed for girlie vibes only.
What will happen after a tour?
At the end of your tour you’ll be full of emotions and some amazing memories, but the adventure doesn’t have to stop there! If you’re unsure of what to do after your package ends, talk to your leader or drop us an email or give us a call – we’re happy to give you recommendations on what to do next!If you’ve got the travel bug our friendly travel experts can talk you through some options – and even set you up with some sweet deals on discounted travel!On a working holiday and looking for a job? Our jobs expert can help you write the perfect CV and apply for jobs.We love hearing from you and we’re here to assist you any way we can!
What type of transport will we be taking?
We travel from Sydney to Great Barrier Reef via public transport, train and coaches. Our point to point transport feature air-conditioning, leather reclining seats, Wifi, in-seat USB chargers, and onboard toilets. We travel a whopping 2,420.2 km between Sydney and Cairns and to make the most of our time in each location, we use two overnight coach services to travel, so we arrive rested, refreshed and ready for our next adventure!
Is travel insurance required?
Yes. It is mandatory that you travel with a comprehensive travel insurance policy to cover the likes of cancellation, personal injury and medical expenses. By joining us on tour, you acknowledge that you have obtained a policy and are covered. You are responsible for reading and understanding the details of the policy that you are taking out. You should book your travel insurance at the time of booking your trip.
How do I book?
To book this East Coast Australia tour, select your chosen departure date, enter your details and we’ll send you a booking confirmation as well as useful information about your tour and where you can meet others booked onto your start date! Got a travel date in mind but not ready to pay in full? Choose to pay a non-refundable $300 deposit to secure a spot on your chosen departure date. Need someone to talk through your travel plans with? Get in touch!
695-699 George Street.
Sydney, NSW 2000
ABN: 91 133 215 166
