Cairns
This Semi-Guided Trip is FULLY Customisable
Highlights
Optional Hostel, Bus & Tour Inclusions
Additional Tour Add Ons
Sydney - Blue Mountains
Brisbane - Australia Zoo
Byron Bay - Dolphin Kayak
Airlie Beach - Skydive
Cairns - Daintree & Cape Tribulation
Our Services
FREE Personalised Plan
Trusted Tour Providers
Discounted Price Applied
No Booking Fees
1:1 Travel Specialist Support
Day 1: Cairns
Begin your East Coast adventure! Cairns is the gateway to both the Great Barrier Reef as well as the Daintree Rainforest and offers heaps of awesome activities for travellers from nature to extreme sports! Check into your Cairns accommodation for 3 nights and then head out to explore the city.
Meals included: None
Day 2: Cairns
Ask us about visiting the stunning Daintree Rainforest for hikes and wildlife spotting, and take a refreshing dip at the nearby waterfalls like Josephine Falls or the Crystal Cascades! For a budget-friendly adventure, head to the Cairns Esplanade, where you can relax by the lagoon or join free fitness classes.
Meals Included: None
Day 3: Great Barrier Reef / Cairns
This morning you can tick off one of Australia's must-do activities—a full-day Great Barrier Reef tour. You'll board at 7:30 am for a day packed with fun and excitement as you explore the outer reef. With options to try snorkeling or even scuba diving, you'll spend up to 6 hours discovering two spectacular reef locations. Swim alongside schools of tropical reef fish and admire amazing coral formations. Learn about the underwater ecosystem during a glass-bottom boat cruise and Marine Biology presentation. It's a true bucket-list experience that you won't want to miss!
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4: Bus from Cairns to Mission Beach
Today, you’ll head south to Mission Beach, Known for its long stretches of pristine, palm-fringed beaches with soft white sand. The scenery is picturesque, making it an ideal place for relaxation, sunbathing, beach walks, and water activities!
Meals included: None
Day 5: Mission Beach
This is one of the best places in the world to skydive, landing on the beach itself! Contact our team to add this exhilarating experience to your itinerary. Mission Beach also has a laid-back and tranquil atmosphere, making it an excellent destination to unwind in a peaceful setting.
Meals included: None
Day 6: Bus from Mission Beach to Townsville
Today you'll make your way to Townsville where a ferry will take you to the stunning Magnetic Island. Check in for 2 nights and then kick back and relax on one of the island's many iconic beaches.
Day 7: Magnetic Island
Today is yours free to soak in the sunshine of Magnetic Island for your final day here. A beautiful place for hiking, kayaking, and full relaxation! Explore Horseshoe Bay and Picnic Bay for a pristine beach day. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including koalas, rock wallabies, and over 180 species of birds.
Meals included: None
Day 8: Bus from Townsville - Magnetic Island to Airlie Beach
Today you'll leave stunning Magnetic Island behind and explore the tropical paradise that is Airlie Beach - gateway to the Whitsundays! The scenery here is picturesque, making it an ideal place for relaxation, sunbathing, beach walks, and water activities! The town itself offers a relaxed vibe with vibrant bars, restaurants, and a famous lagoon perfect for swimming.
Meals included: None
Day 9: Whitsundays Trip from Airlie Beach
This unique full-day Whitsundays tour visits both the northern and southern ends of Whitehaven Beach. Enjoy approximately two hours relaxing on the world-famous white silica sand and enjoy a guided bushwalk to the spectacular Hill Inlet Lookout to view and capture photographs of the stunning swirling silica sands and aqua water. Snorkel for over an hour at Border Island, Dumbell Island, or one of our “secret” snorkel spots, enjoying the amazing hard and soft corals of the fringing reefs. You'll head back to Airlie Beach where you will stay for the night.
Meals included: Lunch
Day 10: 1770 to Airlie Beach
Today is your last day in Airlie Beach and it is time to explore! Kick back and relax on the beach or test your limits and opt for something a bit higher off the ground..how about how you can add on a scenic flight to see the iconic Heart Reef or why not try skydiving in one of Australia's most stunning coastal locations? Tonight you will board the bus to 1770/Agnes Water.
Meals included: None
Day 11: 1770
Arrive bright and early into the beautiful seaside town of Agnes Water! Drop you bags at the hostel and enjoy surfing or swimming at Agnes Water Beach, known as the northernmost surf beach on Australia's east coast, is perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers. Then catch the beautiful sunset at the 1770 Marina.
Meals included: None
Day 12: 1770
Wake up and head to the epic coastal beach here. Enjoy surfing and swimming at Agnes Water Beach. Known as the northernmost surf beach on Australia's east coast, it's perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers. In the evening, check out the sunset at the 1770 Marina. Witness a stunning sunset over the water—a perfect way to end the day. Learn about the local history, including Captain Cook's landing in 1770!
Meals included: None
Day 13: 1770 to Rainbow Beach
Wake up early, and jump on the bus heading south to Rainbow Beach. Arriving for lunch time, check into your beachfront accommodation and then head out to explore! You'll be staying at this Rainbow Beach hostel for a total of 2 nights so get comfortable - with daily free guided walks to the Carlo Sandblow and free pancake breakfasts, that's not hard to do!
Meals included: None
Day 14: 3 Day / 2 Night K'gari (Fraser Island) Tag Along Safari - Day 1
Your K'gari Fraser Island adventure begins with a quick morning brief at Freedom Hostel (7am). At 9:30 am, depart for Fraser Island and drive approximately 10 minutes to the barge (ferry) and board for your 10-minute barge crossing. Once you have arrived on the world's largest sand island, drive for 1 hour to the Eurong Beach Resort along 75 Mile beach - Fraser Island's own highway with speed limits! There you can grab a coffee and chocolate croissant (own cost) for morning tea. From here, the adventure really begins, as we drive to the famous Lake McKenzie, one of the most popular and picturesque highlights of Fraser. We stop for lunch and time to swim and relax in the amazingly clear waters of the lake before driving up the beach to your campsite. Settle in for an early dinner, some well-deserved drinks and plenty of fun!
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 15: 3 Day / 2 Night K'gari (Fraser Island) Tag Along Safari - Day 2
The day begins with a quick breakfast to fuel your busiest day on Fraser Island! First stop is Eli Creek, a beautifully clear creek perfect for a relaxing swim. Travelling north, stop at Maheno Shipwreck for a photo opportunity and a short history lesson about this famous Fraser Island icon before continuing on to Indian Head. Fraser Island's highest point, from here you may be lucky enough to see whales and sharks in the ocean before travelling to Champagne Pools for a drop. Lunch is served at either Maheno Shipwreck or Champagne Pools on Day 2 depending on time constraints, safety and beauty. In the afternoon, travel back to camp for dinner and drinks.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 16: 3 Day / 2 Night K'gari (Fraser Island) Tag Along Safari - Day 3
Start with breakfast before cleaning and disassembling your campsite. Once packed up, you'll drive to the beginning of the Lake Wabby walk where you'll stride through the dunes to find a tropical paradise! Lunch follows your trip to Lake Wabby before you begin the drive down the beach and back to the barge. Once arrived on the mainland, head to the 4WD shed where you can unpack and quickly clean the cars. You will return to Freedom Hostel between 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm, depending on the tides.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 17: Bus from Rainbow Beach to Brisbane
Jump on board a bus to Brisbane in the Queensland Region where you will check-in for 1 night. Spend your first day exploring the area! Brisbane is known for its thriving arts and cultural scene. You can explore the Queensland Cultural Centre, which houses several world-class museums and galleries.
Meals Included: None
Day 18: Brisbane
Enjoy your free day in Brisbane! Opt for a koala river cruise, visit Australia Zoo, or take a leisurely stroll along the scenic South Bank Parklands, where you'll find picturesque views, riverside dining options, and the iconic Wheel of Brisbane.
Meals Included: None
Day 19: Brisbane to Surfers Paradise
Jump on board a bus to Surfers Paradise. Check into your accommodation and then head out to explore! You'll be staying at this hostel for a total of 2 nights. Surfers Paradise has an epic mix of golden beaches and lively nightlife, so take a surf and then a cocktail?
Meals Included: None
Day 20: Surfers Paradise
Another day in paradise! Enjoy breathtaking views from the SkyPoint Observation Deck, visit attractions like Infinity and Ripley's Believe It or Not!, or experience water sports and jet boating. There are also, nearby theme parks, whale watching (seasonal), and Sea World. Whether you're after adventure or relaxation, Surfers Paradise has something for everyone.
Meals Included: None
Day 21: Bus from Surfers Paradise to Byron Bay
Hop on the bus and kick it down to chilled out Byron Bay! Today is yours free to relax and soak up the vibes. With stunning coastal walks as well as plenty of hinterlands, and awesome nightlife - there's plenty to keep you busy. If you want to make the most of this free day head to the iconic lighthouse to do the famous Lighthouse Walk.
Meals Included: None
Day 22: Byron Bay
Today you can soak up Byron Bay's charm and relaxed atmosphere. It is also a hub for artists, musicians, and creatives, plus you'll find a vibrant arts scene, live music performances, street markets, and an array of unique and eclectic shops.
Meals Included: None
Day 23: Byron Bay
Why not tackle some waves like the locals and hop on a surf lesson? Ask us for more info! Or maybe take a dolphin kayak or day trip to awesome Nimbin—yeeeow.
Meals Included: None
Day 24: Byron to Sydney Overnight Bus
Tonight you'll leave the iconic coastal town of Byron Bay and head overnight to SYDNEY!
Meals Included: None
Day 25: Sydney
Rolling into the city bright and early—Welcome to Sydney! Check into your Sydney accommodation for three nights and then head out to explore all the city has to offer! As well as being one of Australia's most iconic cities, it also boasts heaps of awesome day trips including Bondi Beach, the Hunter Valley, and Blue Mountains tours!
Meals Included: None
Day 26: Sydney
Why not hop on a small group tour for a day in the epic Blue Mountains National Park—ask us for more info! You can also explore the historic charm of The Rocks, where cobblestone streets meet modern boutiques and cozy cafés. Dive into the bustling atmosphere of Darling Harbour, home to fantastic dining, entertainment, and attractions like the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium. For a taste of local wildlife, visit Taronga Zoo, offering stunning views of the harbour alongside encounters with native animals.
Meals Included: None
Day 27: Sydney
Begin your day at the iconic Sydney Opera House to admire its stunning architecture and harbour views. Afterwards, enjoy a peaceful stroll through the nearby Royal Botanic Garden.
Meals Included: None
Day 28: Depart Sydney
Say goodbye to like-minded friends and set off on the rest of your travels. We hope you have made memories to last a lifetime and hope to help you on your next adventure! Fiji or New Zealand anyone….?
Meals Included: None
This package has select departure dates.
Please contact our travel specialists to discuss your preferred date of travel.
Departs: Sydney or Cairns
Returns: Cairns or Sydney
Contact Us today if you wish to explore alternative trip lengths or transport options.
Please note: If you are travelling in Peak Season, there is a slight rate increase as reflected on our package pricing.
Please contact us for any questions.
Love this package but have some questions? No worries!
Here is a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about our packages.
Don't see yours here? Contact Us to find out more.
It is no problem to customise your package to suit your travel plans by adding/removing anything that you wish. If you wish to make changes, please contact us via email hello@backpackersworld.com, and we will be more than happy to assist you by providing you with an updated itinerary/package inclusions/price.
This trip consists of a combination of tours and hostels, selected to fit in with your chosen style of travel (budget or flexi flashpacker). Whilst this means that you will not be with the same group of people for the entire duration of your tour, you will be with a group for each tour that you do, and it is very likely that the people that you do the tours with will be booked in the same accommodation in the area. As travellers often travel to similar destinations, it is likely that you will see some of these people, again and again, throughout your tour!
We book all of your tours/accommodation on your behalf and you will be given a voucher for each with all of the information needed ie travel date and pick up location/time. For your buses, we provide you with a bus ticket which has all of the individual departure and arrival times/details.
As Backpackers World Travel is one of the largest travel agencies in Australia, these packages are heavily discounted. Should you need any extra guidance, we are always on hand to help!
This is the most popular way of travel for backpackers along the East Coast, whether you are a solo traveller or travelling in a group of friends - it is the perfect way to meet other travellers and get the most out of your East Coast trip!
All of our packages include some meals (you can find the included meals in the inclusions and in the day-to-day itinerary) which means that you will only have to budget for the meals that are not included. The amount that these meals will cost vary however all of the hostels have communal kitchens so you can cook your own meals instead of eating out. Some travellers will only spend an extra $5 a day whereas some will spend an extra $50!
Due to limited availability in hostels and on tours we recommend that you book your package as far in advance as possible to guarantee availability on your chosen dates.
We hand-pick the best selection of hostels on the East Coast that are available for your travel dates. We include 6-8 bed dorms in the package price however double/twin share room upgrades are available at an additional cost. Please contact us with your preferred travel date and package name if you would like a price to upgrade to double/twin share rooms.
This package is available to depart most days of the week (subject to availability). To check availability for your preferred departure date please ask us on live chat, or send us an email at hello@backpackersworld.com. Alternatively you can book directly on the website by selecting your preferred date and we will reply within 48 hours with a booking confirmation or a secondary option that suits your dates.
The majority of our customers book and pay for their package in full, meaning that we will book everything in advance to guarantee availability. However, as the prices of our packages can change due to price increases, you are able to secure this amazing package price with a small deposit of just $100pp. You are then able to pay off the package in instalments as and when you wish. As we are unable to make the bookings for the hostels and tours until we have received full payment, due to availability, we do recommend completing payment for your package as far in advance as possible to avoid disappointment. Because of this, it is no problem to tweak the itinerary until full payment has been received - the deposit just locks in the discounted price of this package. If you are worried about availability, let us know as so we can go ahead and look into options for you, for example locking in certain parts of your trip that are likely to fill up in advance such as the Whitsundays/Fraser Island. Have a query about the payment that isn't answered above? Feel free to ask us on live chat, or send us an email at hello@backpackersworld.com
Most if not all suppliers are able to cater for specific dietary requirements, however for some suppliers this can be an additional cost. Our online team are fully knowledgeable on what suppliers/tours charge extra for which dietary requirements so feel free to contact us for more information.
