Holiday Overview
Discover the wonders of Australia’s East Coast on this self drive from Sydney to Cairns.
Explore the iconic sights of Sydney with a harbour cruise taking in the views of Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Venture outside of Sydney to the Blue Mountains and savour in local wines in the Hunter Valley. Begin your drive along New South Wales coastline visiting a variety of quaint towns including Byron Bay, Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie. Your drive continues into Queensland home to the Great Barrier Reef, Whale Watching and long white sandy beaches. As you drive up the coast from Brisbane you will visit laid back towns like Noosa, Hervey Bay and Airline Beach to relax in. For the more adventurous you will have the thrills of whale watching, exploring the rainforests, and visiting the islands away from the coastline.
Duration: 24 Days/23 Nights
Start: Sydney Finish: Cairns
States Visited: New South Wales, Queensland
Ultimate Australia East Coast Self Drive includes:
- Return Flights from the UK
- 23 Nights accommodation
- Car Hire
- Blue Mountains Day Tour
- Sydney Harbour Lunch Cruise
- Full Day K'gari Explorer
- Outer Barrier Reef Cruise
- Cape Tribulation, Daintree & Mossman Tour
Day 1 - UK to Sydney
Arrive into Sydney and transfer to your chosen hotel, spending the remainder of your day at leisure.
Featured accommodation
Parkroyal Darling Harbour Hotel
Enhance your experience
Spicers Potts Point Hotel
Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney
Day 2 - Blue Mountains
Leave the city behind for a day of natural beauty, beginning at Calmsley Hill, a working farm home to kangaroos, emus, wombats, and koalas, where you can enjoy morning tea and explore at your own pace. Ascend the Blue Mountains, visiting stunning, crowd-free viewpoints of the Jamison Valley. At Eaglehawk Lookout, marvel at the iconic Three Sisters rock formation while your guide shares its legends and provides excellent photo opportunities.
Lunch is served at the Hydro Majestic in Blackheath, offering a relaxed two-course meal with breathtaking views. The afternoon includes visits to famous lookouts like Govetts Leap, featuring a dramatic 180m waterfall and panoramic vistas of the Grose Wilderness.
The final stop is Mt. Tomah Botanic Gardens for sparkling wine or juice, accompanied by sweeping views to Sydney, before returning via the Bells Line of Road, arriving back at your hotel in the evening.
Featured accommodation
Parkroyal Darling Harbour Hotel
Enhance your experience
Spicers Potts Point Hotel
Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney
Unmissable Experiences
AEA Blue Mountains Deluxe Day
Day 3 - Sydney Harbour Cruise
Spend your morning at leisure, explore Sydney's Rock area and Circular Key before embarking on your lunch cruise of Sydney Harbour. Discover the secrets of one of the world's most famous and spectacular natural harbours including icons such as Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, Sydney Botanical Gardens and more. We give you a chance to see the city from a new perspective and marvel at the sights that decorate its coastline. Owing to our educated live commentator, you will get to learn something new about Sydney, its history and about each of the sights that you can see from the deck.
Featured accommodation
Parkroyal Darling Harbour Hotel
Enhance your experience
Spicers Potts Point Hotel
Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney
Unmissable Experiences
Sydney Experiences
Day 4 - Sydney to Hunter Valley
Today collect your car hire and begin your drive to the Hunter Valley one of Australia’s premier wine making regions.
Featured accommodation
Hunter Valley Resort
Enhance your experience
Spicers Vineyards Estate
Day 5 - Explore Hunter Valley
Spend the day enjoying the delights of the area, there are offer 150 wineries, many offering tastings and paddock to plate food pairings.
Featured accommodation
Hunter Valley Resort
Enhance your experience
Spicers Vineyards Estate
Day 6 - Hunter Valley to Port Macquarie
Journey to the charming coastal town of Port Macquarie, renowned for its picturesque sandy beaches, inviting local cafes, and the beloved Koala Hospital, a must-visit attraction.
Featured accommodation
Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges
Day 7 - Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour
Travel north to Coffs Harbour, nestled between lush forested hills and golden beaches. Don't miss the Forest Sky Pier, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the stunning surroundings.
Featured accommodation
BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort
Day 8 - Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay
Today continue to Byron Bay, Australia’s most Eastern point. Take a stroll to the lighthouse for wonderful views.
Featured accommodation
Eco Beach Resort
Enhance your experience
Elements Of Byron Resort & Spa
Day 9 - Byron Bay
Enjoy a full day at leisure to enjoy the stunning beaches and restaurants in the area, if you are looking for activity, then a guided kayak tour is a fantastic option.
Featured accommodation
Eco Beach Resort
Enhance your experience
Elements Of Byron Resort & Spa
Unmissable Experiences
Byron Bay Experiences
Day 10 - Byron Bay to Brisbane
Your drive today takes to Queensland's capital Brisbane.
Featured accommodation
Grand Chancellor Brisbane
Enhance your experience
Spicers Balfour Hotel
Day 11 - Explore Brisbane
Dedicate a day to exploring a variety of activities, from whale watching (June to November) to a dolphin-viewing cruise. Alternatively, unwind and savor the vibrant, cosmopolitan charm of Brisbane.
Featured accommodation
Grand Chancellor Brisbane
Enhance your experience
Spicers Balfour Hotel
Day 12 - Brisbane to Noosa
Your drive continues along Queensland beautiful coast, your first stop is Noosa. Renowned for its beautiful beach and bohemian Hastings Street, the heart of the town, filled with cafes, restaurants, bars, boutiques, day spa’s and galleries.
Featured accommodation
Peppers Noosa
Enhance your experience
Habitat Noosa Everglades Eco Camp
Day 13 - Explore Noosa
Immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere of Noosa with a full day to explore. Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Main Beach, wander along the vibrant Hastings Street, or take a scenic stroll along the coastal boardwalk to the stunning Noosa National Park.
Featured accommodation
Peppers Noosa
Enhance your experience
Habitat Noosa Everglades Eco Camp
Day 14 - Noosa to Hervey Bay
Take the short drive onwards to Hervey Bay, Queensland’s whale watching capital (Jul-Nov) and gateway to Fraser Island.
Featured accommodation
Mantra Hervey Bay
Day 15 - Explore Fraser Island
Today we have included a day trip to Fraser Island. Your guide is a Fraser Island expert with local knowledge and a passion for the island. On this adventurous day out, you'll drive across sand tracks to explore some of the most beautiful, natural spots and listen to fascinating facts about the island's history, fauna and flora. The custom designed 4WD buses are airconditioned for your comfort and fitted with panoramic windows.
Featured accommodation
Mantra Hervey Bay
Day 16 - Hervey Bay to Rockhampton
This morning continue northward to Rockhampton, giving yourself time to explore the Capricorn Caves, just north of the city.
Featured accommodation
The Edge
Day 17 - Rockhampton to Airlie Beach
Set out on the longest drive of the itinerary, heading towards Airlie Beach. Consider a detour to Eungella National Park, where you can explore scenic bushwalking tracks and possibly catch a glimpse of the elusive platypus in its natural habitat.
Featured accommodation
Toscana Village Resort
Day 18 - Explore Airlie Beach
Enjoy a full day of leisure exploring the area. Consider a cruise to the stunning Whitsunday Islands or a scenic flight over this tropical paradise. For a truly unforgettable experience, spend the night in a swag on the Great Barrier Reef.
Featured accommodation
Toscana Village Resort
Day 19 - Airlie Beach
Another full day to explore Airlie Beach.
Featured accommodation
Toscana Village Resort
Day 20 - Airlie Beach to Townsville
Continue North to Townsville, gateway to Magnetic Island, catch one of the regular ferries out to the Island to enjoy one of its 23 beaches.
Featured accommodation
Mercure
Enhance your experience
Grand Chancellor Townsville
Day 21 - Townsville to Cairns
Today, your journey concludes in Cairns. Along the way, take a break at Mission Beach to enjoy lunch at one of its many charming eateries. Upon arrival in Cairns, return your car hire.
Featured accommodation
Mantra Esplanade
Enhance your experience
Cairns Colonial Club Resort
Shangri La Hotel
Day 22 - Outer Barrier Reef Cruise
Explore the Agincourt Reef, at the very outer edge of the Barrier Reef. Here, special reefs known as ‘ribbons' run parallel to the Continental Shelf. Adjacent to the Coral Sea trench, these ribbon reefs are recognised as the most pristine eco-systems in the reef's environment. Clear water provides the best possible underwater visibility, encourages rich coral growth and supports spectacular marine life. As the region's outer reef pioneer, we chose the best location available to show you nature's finest.
Featured accommodation
Mantra Esplanade
Enhance your experience
Cairns Colonial Club Resort
Shangri La Hotel
Unmissable Experiences
Moore Reef Outer Barrier Reef Tour
Day 23 - Cape Tribulation, Daintree & Mossman Tour
Explore the ancient rainforests of World Heritage listed Cape Tribulation and the Daintree National Park. Discover the secrets of the rainforest at Mossman Gorge and spot wildlife along the Daintree River Cruise. Enjoy a delicious lunch in the heart of the rainforest before stepping foot on the world-renowned Cape Tribulation Beach. Also included is a delicious afternoon refreshment at the Daintree Ice Cream Company.
Featured accommodation
Mantra Esplanade
Enhance your experience
Cairns Colonial Club Resort
Shangri La Hotel
Day 24 - Cairns to UK
Today make your way to Cairns airport for your onward flight home.
PARKROYAL Darling Hotel, Sydney Holidays
PARKROYAL Darling Harbour offers views of Darling Harbour and the city skyline and features a restaurant, a fully equipped fitness centre and free cable TV. It is located in Sydney CBD (Central Business District) just a 5 minutes’ walk to Chinatown and Town Hall Station
Spicers Potts Point Hotel, Sydney Holidays
Spicers Potts Point is situated in Sydney, 1.1 miles from Circular Quay. Guests can enjoy a drink in the guest bar and breakfast in the garden courtyard.
Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney Holidays
Wake up to breath-taking views of the iconic Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge or Darling Harbour each morning. You will be spoiled for choice at the Shangri-La Hotel, with a day spa, fitness centre and indoor pool at your disposal.
Hunter Valley Resort, Hunter Valley Holidays
This stylish resort offers rooms with timber cathedral-ceilings and private balconies overlooking the largest winery in the Hunter Valley. It is located within minutes of 3 championship golf courses.
Spicers Vineyards Estate
Just a two hour drive from Sydney, you’ll be greeted by rolling vineyards and natural bush land at Spicers Vineyards Estate. Where Spa Anise adds to the feeling of rejuvenation and appreciating life comes as naturally as appreciating the latest vintage.
Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges, New South Wales Holidays
The Sails Resort Port Macquarie by Rydges is located at Pelican Bay, 10 minutes' drive from the town centre. It overlooks the Hastings River and Marina and features rooms with stunning water or garden views. Guests enjoy free unlimited WiFi.
BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort, Coffs Harbour holidays
Situated on the beachfront with magnificent ocean views, BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort offers a day spa, swimming pool, restaurant and bar. Free on-site and on-street parking are available for guests.
Eco Beach Resort, Byron Bay Holidays
Just a 5-minute walk from Belongil and Main Beaches, and a 10-minute walk from the heart of Byron Bay's nightlife, Eco Beach Resort offers a solar-heated outdoor pool and free on-site parking. Its self-contained suites offer a kitchenette.
Elements Of Byron Resort & Spa, Byron Bay Holidays
Nestled on 50 acres of absolute beachfront, Elements of Byron Resort & Spa features private villas. Each villa boasts modern beach architecture and interiors inspired by the natural beauty Byron Bay has to offer. The restaurant offers all day dining and the bar serves signature cocktails.
Greand Chancellor Brisbane
Situated on the highest point in Brisbane’s Central Business District, Hotel Grand Chancellor Brisbane is a convenient address for business and leisure travellers. Discover an engaging blend of contemporary design, modern amenities and gracious hospitality, at a 4.5 star Brisbane hotel dedicated to the perfect guest experience - ideal for a relaxing corporate trip, family holiday or weekend getaway.
Spicers Balfour Hotel, Brisbane Holidays
Spicers Balfour Hotel is an award-winning boutique hotel just minutes from the Brisbane city centre, 16km from Brisbane Airport, and a 2 minute walk from Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane’s newest entertainment and lifestyle destination
Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas Holidays
Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas is nestled in the serenity of Noosa National Park. Spend your days lazing in the inviting free-form swimming pool, pamper yourself in Stephanie’s Ocean Spa, or just take it easy
Habitat Noosa Everglades Eco Camp
Located 25 minutes from Noosa, set amongst 65 acres of National Park and perched on the edge of picturesque Lake Cootharaba. With an array of accommodation options from campsites (powered and unpowered) to Glamping tents there is a solution to suit all guest comfort levels. Boasting a number of waterfront activities from stand up paddle boards, canoes, wave skis, kayaks and tinnie hire to the exciting sport of disc golf in a bushland setting.
Mantra, Hervey Bay Holidays
There are many reasons to stay and play at Mantra Hervey Bay, overlooking the famous calm waters where migrating humpback whales frolic with their newborns.
The Edge, Rockhampton Holidays
The Edge offers deluxe accommodation in the heart of the CBD Riverfront Precinct. Take in spectacular views of the mighty Fitzroy River, Mount Archer, and the city. The Edge is walking distance to Rockhampton shopping mall in the CBD.
Toscana Village Resort, Airlie Beach Holidays
Toscana Village Resort is a family-oriented resort, featuring spacious, well-equipped, self-catering apartments in a tranquil garden setting inspired by the villages of Tuscany.
Mercure, Townsville Holidays
Situated on 11 lush, resort-style acres just minutes from the centre of Townsville and only two kilometres from the airport, the Mercure Hotel Townsville offers a tranquil, relaxing choice for holiday travellers visiting this beautiful gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
Grand Chancellor, Townsville Holidays
Hotel Grand Chancellor Townsville, situated in the heart of the business and shopping districts, is fondly known locally as the ‘Sugar Shaker’, due to its unusual shape. Being Townsville’s tallest building, the hotel offers stunning views across the city, Castle Hill and towards Magnetic Island.
Mantra Esplanade, Cairns Holidays
With its prime waterfront location, Mantra Esplanade offers stylish and contemporary accommodation in the heart of the holiday hub of Cairns.
Cairns Colonial Resort Hotel holidays
The Cairns Colonial Club Resort is recognised worldwide as the region's leading leisure resort. The facilities include the magnificent 345 rooms, 11 acres of lush, award-winning tropical gardens and three lagoon style swimming pools. Further to this, the resort provides additional services and facilities designed to ensure your stay is both pleasurable and memorable.
Image Gallery
Noosa
Townsville
Sydney Opera House
Koala
Great Barrier Reef
Sydney
Blue Mountains
Blue Mountains, Three Sisters
Hunter Valley
Coffs Harbour
Coffs Harbour
Port Macquarie
Port Macquarie
Byron Bay
Byron Bay
Byron Bay
Brisbane
Brisbane
Noosa Everglades
Noosa Everglades
Hervey Bay
Whale Hervey Bay
Fraser Island
Fraser Island
Turtle Great Barrier Reef
Airlie Beach
Great Barrier Reef
Daintree Rainforest
Alternative Holidays That May Interest You
Below you will find a small selection of 2024, 2025 holidays that may interest you. Remember, we tailor-make each holiday to your exact needs, so please call us on 0800 270 0009 and let one of our Holiday experts design the perfect trip for you
Legendary Pacific Coast Fly Drive Holiday
- Sydney
- Hunter Valley
- Port Macquarie
- Coffs Harbour
- Byron Bay
- Gold Coast
- Brisbane
- Cruise Sydney Harbour
- Stay on a working vineyard
- Enjoy bohemian Byron Bay
- See the glitz of Gold Coast
12 Nights from £2490pp
The Great Ocean Road - Australia Fly Drive
- Melbourne
- Apollo Bay
- Robe
- Barossa Valley
- Kangaroo Island
- Adelaide
- Get up close to wildlife on Kangaroo Island
- Witness the coastal icons, the towering 12 Apostles
- Taste the best wine from Yarra Valley and Barossa Valley
- See the penguins & koalas of Philip Island
11 Nights from £2805pp
Perth's Road to Margaret River Fly Drive Holiday
- Perth
- Margaret River
- Karri Valley
- Mandurah
- Visit the stunning beaches of Margaret River
- Explore the seaside town of Mandurah
- Visit Lake Beedup in the Karri Forest
11 Nights from £3415pp
Western Australia Coastal Adventure Fly Drive
- Perth
- Cervantes
- Kalbarri
- Monkey Mia
- Dirk Hartog Island
- Carnarvon
- Ningaloo
- Exmouth
- Visit Namburg National Park to see the Pinnacles
- Wander through Kalbarri National Park to step back in time
- Experience swimming with Whale Sharks at Ningaloo Reef
- Feed the dolphins at Monkey Mia
14 Nights from £3565pp
Coastal Coral Sea Australia Fly Drive Holiday
- Brisbane
- Noosa
- Hervey Bay
- Rockhampton
- Airlie Beach
- Townsville
- Cairns
- Visit the cosmopolitan city of Brisbane
- Visit Queensland's whale watching capital
14 Nights from £2830pp
Golf Australia
- Adelaide
- Kangaroo Island
- Melbourne
- Sydney
- Hunter Valley
- Play some of Australia's best golf courses
- Stay on a family owned working vineyard
- See the wildlife of Kangaroo Island
- Enjoy the cities of Adelaide, Melbourne & Sydney
15 Nights from £2975pp