CHECK DATES & BOOK REQUEST INFO OZ ESSENTIALS Package SYDNEY TO CAIRNS | 25 DAY Oz Adventure Package East Coast Australia Group Whitsundays Mobile Slide
PRICES START FROM:
EUR GBP AUD
€1399 £1199 $2499

Tour charges are in AUD. Secure your tour date with a 50% deposit. Booking and Transaction Fees apply. Find out more here.

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Start this self-guided package in Sydney and end in Cairns! This is our best value 25 Day Itinerary and East Coast Essentials package! Flexibility is key with this package, as you can choose your preferred dates to start your itinerary and choose your own activities and adventures. Your accommodation and transport is booked with this package so depending on your travel preferences, you have the option to book the activities and experience that suit your travel style.

East-Coast-Essentials-North

25 DAY | SYDNEY TO CAIRNS

EAST COAST ESSENTIALS PACKAGE

SELF-GUIDED ADVENTURE | ALL ACCOMMODATION & BUS TRAVEL

4.8 Stars - based on 3087 ULTIMATE Traveller Reviews
PRICES START FROM:
EUR GBP AUD
€1399 £1199 $2499

Tour charges are in AUD. Secure your tour date with a 50% deposit. Booking and Transaction Fees apply. Find out more here.

East-Coast-Essentials-North

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS & HIGHLIGHTS

Start this package in Sydney and end in Cairns! This is our best value 25 Day Itinerary and East Coast Essentials package! Flexibility is key with this package, as you can choose your preferred dates to start your itinerary and choose your own activities and adventures. Your accommodation and transport is booked with this package so depending on your travel preferences, you have the option to book the activities and experience that suit your travel style. Want to travel in the opposite direction? Check out our reversed Cairns to Sydney itinerary option here.

Travel via Coach

Travel the East Coast on Australia’s largest coach network. Hop on hop off travel in any direction on any route on along the East Coast for your chosen duration. Transport features include WiFi, onboard toilets, USB charging slots and reclining seats.

23 NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION

Accommodation included for the duration of your package in 6 – 12 Bed Dorms. Choose from up to 8 Hostels on Australia’s East Coast. The most popular stops include Sydney, Byron Bay, Brisbane, Noosa, Airlie Beach, Magnetic Island, Cairns plus more!

> THE TRAVEL STYLE

INCLUDED ACCOMMODATION

Your accommodation and itinerary is prebooked and set prior to your arrival. You will be booked at the best hostels on the Aussie East Coast in 6-10 bed dorms. You’ll be staying in a beachfront hostel and some resort-style flashpacker accommodations. Room upgrades are available.

ITINERARY STOPS

With many years of experience travelling, ULTIMATE has created a path along the best and most exciting destinations along Australia’s East Coast, where you are bound to meet fellow travellers. You will visit Sydney, Byron Bay, Surfers Paradise, Brisbane, Noosa, Airlie Beach, Magnetic Island and Cairns!

CHOOSE YOUR OWN ACTIVITIES

The flexibility offered by our Oz East Coast Essentials Package allows travellers more freedoms to customise their experience. You have full control of all activities and can book arrangments in the palm of your hand via our ULTIMATE App.

CONNECT WITH TRAVELLERS

With thousands of itineraries crossing paths, you’ll meet loads of like-minded travellers throughout the season. Our group tour series pass through each location on the Essentials itinerary on a weekly basis and the East Coast is home to 1000’s of travellers each year! Use our ULITMATE Travel Community Facebook Group to access the best ways to meet new people travelling Australia!

INCLUDED TRANSPORT

Your travel days and itinerary are all prebooked. You will travel on comfortable and modern coaches with door-to-door service to most of our accommodation partners. Your travel pass is on Australia’s largest transport network. Buses feature bathrooms on board, reclining seats similar to airlines and access to WiFi in certain areas of Australia.

ULTIMATE APP

Our East Coast Essentials package secures your itinerary and gives you the very best framework to live your best life on the East Coast with full control over what activities suit your travel style! Once you book, download the ULTIMATE App to local our Destination Guide and optional activities you can book from the app

> THE INCLUSIONS

INCLUDED ACCOMMODATION

Your accommodation and itinerary is prebooked and set prior to your arrival. You will be booked at the best hostels on the Aussie East Coast in 6-10 bed dorms. You’ll be staying in a beachfront hostel and some resort-style flashpacker accommodations. Room upgrades are available.

INCLUDED TRANSPORT

Your travel days and itinerary are all prebooked. You will travel on comfortable and modern coaches with door-to-door service to most of our accommodation partners. Your travel pass is on Australia’s largest transport network. Buses feature bathrooms on board, reclining seats similar to airlines and access to WiFi in certain areas of Australia.

CONNECT WITH TRAVELLERS

With thousands of itineraries crossing paths, you’ll meet loads of like-minded travellers throughout the season. Our group tour series pass through each location on the Essentials itinerary on a weekly basis and the East Coast is home to 1000’s of travellers each year! Use our ULITMATE Travel Community Facebook Group to access the best ways to meet new people travelling Australia!

ITINERARY STOPS

With many years of experience travelling, ULTIMATE has created a path along the best and most exciting destinations along Australia’s East Coast, where you are bound to meet fellow travellers. You will visit Sydney, Byron Bay, Surfers Paradise, Brisbane, Noosa, Airlie Beach, Magnetic Island and Cairns!

CHOOSE YOUR OWN ACTIVITIES

The flexibility offered by our Oz East Coast Essentials Package allows travellers more freedoms to customise their experience. You have full control of all activities and can book arrangments in the palm of your hand via our ULTIMATE App.

ULTIMATE APP

Our East Coast Essentials package secures your itinerary and gives you the very best framework to live your best life on the East Coast with full control over what activities suit your travel style! Once you book, download the ULTIMATE App to local our Destination Guide and optional activities you can book from the app

> THE ITINERARY – SYDNEY TO CAIRNS

> THE ITINERARY

DAY 1 Sydney

Get ready to start your East Coast adventure as we launch our tour in Sydney! You will visit the iconic landmarks that define this magnificent city, including the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge! Today, we embark on an epic coastal journey, and our initial destination is none other than Byron Bay!

DAY 2 – 5  BYRON BAY

Today we start our Byron Bay exploration! Byron Bay is famous for it’s amazing beaches and laid-back-surfer attitude Here we’ll explore the relaxed town and some of the many beautiful beaches in the area as well as the famous Byron Lighthouse, standing at the most easterly point of the Australian mainland, at sunrise. Embrace the surfer vibes of Byron with a professional surf lesson. Keen for more? Get up close with friendly wild dolphins on a dolphin kayaking tour or check out the alternative hippie hub of Nimbin (add-ons) before we move onto the next location, Surfers Paradise!

DAY 6 SURFERS PARADISE

Welcome to Surfers Paradise! Renowned for its epic waves, endless nightlife, and sandy beaches, Surfers Paradise promises to be a highlight of your East Coast journey. As the sun sets, it’s time to dress up and venture out for an unforgettable night on the town, hopping between fantastic bars and clubs on our optional pub crawl (add-on). For thrill-seekers, your tour guide can assist in arranging a visit to the legendary Dreamworld, the Gold Coast’s most famous theme park, or even book you stand-up paddleboarding session (optional add-on). The following day, take a moment to unwind by the pool, soak up the sun, or delve into the city’s wonders at your own pace.

DAY 7-8 BRISBANE

This morning we board the bus making our way to Brisbane! Settled in the heart of the city, our accommodation will grant us easy access to the best attractions, including the man-made Streets Beach and the cultural hub of Southbank. For those seeking a wild adventure, take the opportunity to visit the renowned Australia Zoo and witness the wildlife in action (optional add-on).

DAY 9-14 NOOSA

Noosa is our next stop. We’ll arrive in the afternoon, chill by the beach and watch the sunset. Tomorrow, we’ll take a hike over the coastal headlands taking in the amazing sea views. The rest of the day is yours: chill by the pool, grab a surfboard or boogie board from your hostel (free) or have a couple-a beers at the bar at your hostel this evening. You also have the chance to join a Noosa Everglades Kayak adventure (optional add-on).

DAY 15-19 AIRLIE BEACH

Arriving in the morning, we’ll soak up the paradise of Airlie’s lagoon, wander around the town or explore the surrounding national park! We’ll hit up the hostel bar for some evening drinks enjoying the awesome sunsets! Enjoy some days in paradise before our journey to Townsville, the gateway to Magnetic Island!

DAY 20 – 22 MAGNETIC ISLAND

You’re in for a treat as we spend the next 2 days exploring Magnetic Island – home to wild koalas, wallabies, and golden sandy beaches. Snorkel in the crystal blue island waters, take the guided Fort’s walk offering incredible views of the island and chill at the hostel. Our hostel even has an on-site wildlife park where you can get up close to Aussie wildlife such as koalas and wallabies (additional cost). Want to explore the rest of the island? Rent a 4×4 ‘Barbie car’ and drive around the island with your mates (available for hire)!

DAY 23 – 25 CAIRNS

Your final destination is Cairns, the ultimate destination for backpackers, where the Great Barrier Reef awaits. Our hostel has daily entertainment in our resort-style accommodation along with a pool and bar. Get ready to make yourself at home, as we’ll be spending the next few days here. If you’re eager to explore the rainforest, you’re in luck – optional add-ons for Cape Tribulation are available, offering an extraordinary rainforest experience.

> WHERE YOU STAY

Our East Coast Essentials Package includes 23 nights accommodation at some of the East Coasts most popular hostels. You will have two overnight buses. Your itinerary will be set – and you will be staying in 6-10 Dorm rooms at properties with features including:

  • Kitchens/Laundry facilities
  • Free WIFI available at all properties.
  • Great and Central Locations
  • All accommodation have Social Events along with Food and Beverage venues or deals.
  • Upgrades to room options are available.

> EAST COAST ACTIVITIES!

WhitsundaySailingActivityEastCoastEssentials

WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS

Opt for a Overnight or Multi Day sailing trip or book a day trip visit out to Whitehaven Beach!

  • Mission Beach.
FraserIslandActivityEastCoastEssentials

K’GARI (FRASER ISLAND)

Explore the world’s largest sand via 4WD and choose to camp or visit on a Day Trip

  • Gold Coast, Queensland.

ATHERTON TABLELANDS

Spend a day exploring waterfalls and nature at this World Heritage Wet Tropics Rainforest (older than South Americas Amazon Rainforest) 

  • Cairns, Australia.

LEARN TO SURF!

Learn the local way of Aussie life with an introductory surf lesson along the East Coast of Australia.

  • Bondi Beach, Australia.

SKYDIVE AUSTRALIA

The ULTIMATE high! Tandem skydive from Australia’s highest altitude of up to 15000 ft over the most spectacular beach.

  • Various Locations.

DOLPHIN KAYAKING

What better way to experience Byron Bay than kayaking through the marine park, home to bottle nose dolphins!

  • Byron Bay, Australia.

> EAST COAST ESSENTIALS FAQS

> FAQS

DO MANY PEOPLE TRAVEL SOLO?
IS THIS A GUIDED TOUR?
WHERE DOES THE PACKAGE START AND FINISH?
WHO IS THIS TRIP DESIGNED FOR?
WHAT ACCOMMODATION IS INCLUDED?
CAN I BOOK EXTRA NIGHTS?
ARE THERE ANY EXTRA FEES?
IS AIRPORT TRANSFER INCLUDED ON ARRIVAL?
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO AUSTRALIA?
CAN I TRAVEL WITH A MEDICAL CONDITION
ARE PRIVATE ROOM UPGRADES AVAILABLE?
IS TRAVEL INSURANCE REQUIRED?
CAN YOU HELP ME ORGANISE FLIGHTS & INSURANCE?
HOW MUCH SPENDING MONEY IS RECOMMENDED?
HOW DO I BOOK?
DO MANY PEOPLE TRAVEL SOLO?

Yes! Most of our customers are solo travellers. 

The East Coast is one of the most popular backpacker travel routes in the world and you are bound to cross paths with plenty of other travellers with various backgrounds. You will typically cross paths or bumps into an Ultimate guided tour with an Ultimate tour leader who will always be happy to help with any questions and queries you have!

IS THIS A GUIDED TOUR?

No. This package is not with a set group leader.

ULTIMATE supports you with our best travel structure that covers transport, accommodation and activities so you can relax without the pressure of following a group or guide. Should you require a full guided tour, check out our Highlights and Explorer tours.

WHERE DOES THE PACKAGE START AND FINISH?

The Oz Adventure package starts in Sydney and ends in Cairns. Your travel pass is valid for 30 days and the package officially starts on Fridays or Sundays with an overnight bus to Byron Bay. Your bus will depart any time after 6pm.

There is no official time for you to arrive into Sydney, but most travellers will choose to arrive in the morning or add additional nights in Sydney and arrive one or two days earlier.

Package Departure Point:  Sydney Central Station, Forecourt, Coach Bay 5 &, Haymarket NSW 2000.

 

WHO IS THIS TRIP DESIGNED FOR?

Our Oz Adventure package is designed for travellers 18-35 who want some more flexibility to their travel arrangements. The itinerary requires a moderate level of fitness. You will spend 2-4 nights in each location staying in centrally located and sociable hostels. 

WHAT ACCOMMODATION IS INCLUDED?

We partner at some of the most popular social hostels on the East Coast of Australia.  All prices are based on shared accommodation in 6 to 12 bed share mixed dorm style rooms. 

Byron Bay - Nomads Art Factory, Aquarius Hostel or YHA Byron Bay (or similar)

Surfers Paradise - Budds Hostel or Bunk Hostel (or similar)

Brisbane - YHA Brisbane or Bunk Hostel (or similar)

Noosa - 12 Bed Dorm in Hostel

Airlie Beach - Base Backpackers (or similar)

Magnetic Island - 12 Bed Dorm in Hostel

Cairns - Global Backpackers, Mad Monkey Hostel (or similar)

 

CAN I BOOK EXTRA NIGHTS?

If you need additional nights before or after your trip, 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. 

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 ($30 AUD) - Paid direct on arrival 
  • Great Barrier Reef Conservation Levy ($20 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. 

Food and Drink - No meals or drinks are included in this package so will all need to be budgeted for seperately.

IS AIRPORT TRANSFER INCLUDED ON ARRIVAL?

An airport shuttle on arrival is not included.  You are required to make your own way to the overnight bus departure point at Sydney Central Station

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO 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!

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.

 

ARE PRIVATE ROOM UPGRADES AVAILABLE?

Twin room and Single room upgrades are available, but are subject to availability and can take up to ten business days to confirm.  Private rooms are not available on our Bus transport, Whitsundays Sailing or Fraser Island Trip components. Please note that Single rooms may have shared bathroom facilities. You can request a Twin or Single room upgrade via the booking process or email our reservations team after you have made your booking. 

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 making a booking with us, 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.

 

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.

HOW MUCH SPENDING MONEY IS RECOMMENDED?

While you are travelling you may wish to participate in additional activities which you will need to budget for.  You may wish to eat and drink out, which will require additional budgeting or you may plan to cook and prepare some of your own meals.

As a guide, we recommend you budget an additional $40 - $60AUD 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.

 

 

HOW DO I BOOK?

To book the East Coast Oz Adventure Package, select your chosen departure date, enter your details and pay your $300 package deposit. Your final payment is due 45 days prior to your start date.

Once you book, we’ll send you a booking confirmation. Once your trip is paid in full, you will be issued with a Travel Pass, Accommodation and Activity Vouchers.

Need someone to talk through your travel plans with? Get in touch!

 

FIND A TRAVEL BUDDY!

Most ULTIMATE customers are solo travellers! The East Coast is one of the most popular backpacker travel routes in the world and you are bound to cross paths with plenty of other travellers with various backgrounds. You will typically cross paths or bumps into an ULTIMATE Guided Tour with an ULTIMATE tour leader who will always be happy to help with any questions and queries you have! Looking to make friends before arriving or after a travel buddy? Join our Travel Community to meet other travellers.

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// BOOK THE EAST COAST OZ ESSENTIALS PACKAGE

  • MAKING YOUR BOOKING

    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. If you have a travel date in mind but you’re not ready to pay in full, you can secure your spot with a $300 deposit. We’ll send you a booking confirmation as well as important information about your tour.  Your final payment is due 45 days before your tour date and you will be sent an automatic reminder. 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.

  • MEETING OTHER TRAVELLERS

    This package is self guided and you are not guaranteed to travel in a group. Most travellers will be solo. 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! Join the conversation here.

  • BOOKING WITH CONFIDENCE

    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 always flexible and if you can no longer travel, you can save your deposit for a later trip or destination, or even gift it to a mate to use anytime in the future. We also allow date changes up until 14 days before your scheduled tour date! Check out our full booking policy here.

  • Christmas Tours and Peak Season Travel

    Please note that an additional surcharge applies to our East Coast tours that depart between Monday 9th December and Monday 6th January

// BOOK 

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