Sydney to Cairns: Why the East Coast is Australia's Best Backpacking Route

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Published 03rd June, 2025
Article author - Amber Young

Australia’s East Coast is a must-do for any backpacker, offering vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes, and thrilling activities. From the hustle and bustle of Sydney’s iconic landmarks to the tropical paradise of Cairns, our East Coast Adventure is the ultimate way to explore this incredible route.

Aus_whitsundaysboat

1. Sydney

Sydney is a vibrant mix of cosmopolitan energy and coastal beauty. Famous for the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, the city also boasts stunning beaches like Bondi and Manly, perfect for surfing or relaxing. The Bondi to Coogee Walk offers spectacular coastal views, and you can wind down with a classic Aussie beach BBQ.

Highlights

  • Sydney City Tour : Explore the iconic landmarks and vibrant cityscape.
  • Bondi to Coogee Walk & Beach BBQ : Stunning coastal views and a relaxed BBQ.
  • Surf Lesson : Learn to surf at the world-famous Bondi Beach.

2. Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a chilled, bohemian escape, famed for its surfing culture and tranquil beaches. The Cape Byron Lighthouse offers panoramic coastal views, while the town’s yoga studios and organic cafés create the perfect environment for relaxation.

Highlights

  • Surf Board Hire : Hit the waves at Byron’s best surf spots.
  • Yoga Class : Unwind with a peaceful yoga session by the beach.
  • Cape Byron Lighthouse Walk : Scenic walk with breathtaking views of the coast.

3. Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is where Australia’s most famous beach meets a thriving cityscape. With its golden sands and thrilling waves, it’s the ideal place to soak up the sun or experience adrenaline-pumping activities. The area’s nightlife and beach culture offer a lively vibe, making it a must-visit on your trip.

Highlights

  • Jet Boating : High-speed adventure on the water.
  • Beach and City Vibes : Soak up the sun or enjoy the lively city atmosphere.

Aus_Goldcoast_skyline

4. Brisbane

Brisbane combines the charm of a riverside city with an artsy edge. Enjoy the South Bank precinct, filled with galleries, markets, and riverside parks. The city’s relaxed atmosphere is ideal for exploring, with great places to eat, shop, and discover local culture.

Highlights

  • Brisbane City Tour : Discover the highlights of Queensland’s capital city.
  • South Bank Precinct : Explore riverside parks, galleries, and markets.

5. K'gari (Fraser Island)

K'gari (Fraser Island) is a stunning paradise, home to vast sand dunes, crystal-clear lakes, and ancient rainforests. The island is perfect for nature lovers, offering unique wildlife and pristine beaches - a place of incredible diversity and untouched beauty.

Highlights

  • 3-Day 4WD Tag Along Tour of K'gari : Explore the island in a 4WD, visiting natural wonders.
  • Wildlife & Nature : See native wildlife in their natural environment, from dingoes to birds.

6. Airlie Beach & the Whitsundays

Airlie Beach is the perfect spot to begin your Whitsundays adventure - a collection of idyllic islands with pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs. Whitehaven Beach is a must-see, with its soft white sands and clear waters, while the surrounding coral gardens offer some of the world’s best snorkelling.

Highlights

  • 2-Day 2-Night Whitsundays Sailing Trip : Sail through the stunning Whitsundays islands.
  • Whitehaven Beach : Relax on one of the world’s most famous beaches.
  • Snorkelling : Dive into the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.

Aus_whitsundays

7. Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island offers a tranquil retreat with stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and wildlife like koalas. The Forts Walk offers breathtaking views, and the peaceful island atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to relax and unwind.

Highlights

  • Forts Walk : Hike for spectacular views of the island and surrounding waters.
  • Wildlife Encounters : Spot koalas, wallabies, and more in their natural habitats.
  • Island Relaxation : Unwind on quiet beaches or enjoy a peaceful swim.

8. Cairns

Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, offering exceptional snorkelling and diving opportunities. Beyond the reef, you can explore lush rainforests and picturesque waterfalls in the nearby Atherton Tablelands, making it a perfect tropical destination to cap off your adventure.

Highlights

  • Full-Day Snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef : Swim at two outer reef locations for vibrant coral and marine life.
  • Atherton Tablelands : Explore the lush rainforests and stunning waterfalls.

From iconic cities to tropical islands, our OZ Adventure is the ultimate way to experience Australia’s East Coast. Whether you’re chasing waves, exploring rainforests, or diving into the Great Barrier Reef, every stop offers something unforgettable. Ready to join us for this adventure of a lifetime?

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Sydney to Cairns: Why the East Coast is Australia's Best Backpacking Route

blog image
Published 03rd June, 2025
Article author - Amber Young

Australia’s East Coast is a must-do for any backpacker, offering vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes, and thrilling activities. From the hustle and bustle of Sydney’s iconic landmarks to the tropical paradise of Cairns, our East Coast Adventure is the ultimate way to explore this incredible route.

Aus_whitsundaysboat

1. Sydney

Sydney is a vibrant mix of cosmopolitan energy and coastal beauty. Famous for the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, the city also boasts stunning beaches like Bondi and Manly, perfect for surfing or relaxing. The Bondi to Coogee Walk offers spectacular coastal views, and you can wind down with a classic Aussie beach BBQ.

Highlights

  • Sydney City Tour: Explore the iconic landmarks and vibrant cityscape.
  • Bondi to Coogee Walk & Beach BBQ: Stunning coastal views and a relaxed BBQ.
  • Surf Lesson: Learn to surf at the world-famous Bondi Beach.

2. Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a chilled, bohemian escape, famed for its surfing culture and tranquil beaches. The Cape Byron Lighthouse offers panoramic coastal views, while the town’s yoga studios and organic cafés create the perfect environment for relaxation.

Highlights

  • Surf Board Hire: Hit the waves at Byron’s best surf spots.
  • Yoga Class: Unwind with a peaceful yoga session by the beach.
  • Cape Byron Lighthouse Walk: Scenic walk with breathtaking views of the coast.

3. Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is where Australia’s most famous beach meets a thriving cityscape. With its golden sands and thrilling waves, it’s the ideal place to soak up the sun or experience adrenaline-pumping activities. The area’s nightlife and beach culture offer a lively vibe, making it a must-visit on your trip.

Highlights

  • Jet Boating: High-speed adventure on the water.
  • Beach and City Vibes: Soak up the sun or enjoy the lively city atmosphere.

Aus_Goldcoast_skyline

4. Brisbane

Brisbane combines the charm of a riverside city with an artsy edge. Enjoy the South Bank precinct, filled with galleries, markets, and riverside parks. The city’s relaxed atmosphere is ideal for exploring, with great places to eat, shop, and discover local culture.

Highlights

  • Brisbane City Tour: Discover the highlights of Queensland’s capital city.
  • South Bank Precinct: Explore riverside parks, galleries, and markets.

5. K'gari (Fraser Island)

K'gari (Fraser Island) is a stunning paradise, home to vast sand dunes, crystal-clear lakes, and ancient rainforests. The island is perfect for nature lovers, offering unique wildlife and pristine beaches - a place of incredible diversity and untouched beauty.

Highlights

  • 3-Day 4WD Tag Along Tour of K'gari: Explore the island in a 4WD, visiting natural wonders.
  • Wildlife & Nature: See native wildlife in their natural environment, from dingoes to birds.

6. Airlie Beach & the Whitsundays

Airlie Beach is the perfect spot to begin your Whitsundays adventure - a collection of idyllic islands with pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs. Whitehaven Beach is a must-see, with its soft white sands and clear waters, while the surrounding coral gardens offer some of the world’s best snorkelling.

Highlights

  • 2-Day 2-Night Whitsundays Sailing Trip: Sail through the stunning Whitsundays islands.
  • Whitehaven Beach: Relax on one of the world’s most famous beaches.
  • Snorkelling: Dive into the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.

Aus_whitsundays

7. Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island offers a tranquil retreat with stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and wildlife like koalas. The Forts Walk offers breathtaking views, and the peaceful island atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to relax and unwind.

Highlights

  • Forts Walk: Hike for spectacular views of the island and surrounding waters.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Spot koalas, wallabies, and more in their natural habitats.
  • Island Relaxation: Unwind on quiet beaches or enjoy a peaceful swim.

8. Cairns

Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, offering exceptional snorkelling and diving opportunities. Beyond the reef, you can explore lush rainforests and picturesque waterfalls in the nearby Atherton Tablelands, making it a perfect tropical destination to cap off your adventure.

Highlights

  • Full-Day Snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef: Swim at two outer reef locations for vibrant coral and marine life.
  • Atherton Tablelands: Explore the lush rainforests and stunning waterfalls.

From iconic cities to tropical islands, our OZ Adventure is the ultimate way to experience Australia’s East Coast. Whether you’re chasing waves, exploring rainforests, or diving into the Great Barrier Reef, every stop offers something unforgettable. Ready to join us for this adventure of a lifetime?

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