Australia

East (Gold) Coast

Experience the Iconic Sydney

  • Marvel at the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
  • Explore the historic Rocks district with its cobblestone streets and pubs.
  • Relax on Bondi Beach, try surfing, or enjoy the coastal walk.
  • Take a ferry to Manly for stunning harbour views and beaches.
  • Wander through the Royal Botanic Garden.
  • Enjoy world-class dining and nightlife in the city.

Discover the Scenic Beauty of the South Coast (New South Wales)

  • Explore Jervis Bay with its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters (e.g., Hyams Beach).
  • Visit national parks like Murramarang and Ben Boyd for hiking and wildlife spotting.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood in coastal towns like Ulladulla and Narooma.
  • Go whale watching during migration season.
  • Discover hidden gems like the Sea Cliff Bridge.

Explore the Natural Beauty of the Blue Mountains (Near Sydney)

  • Discover the iconic Three Sisters rock formation.
  • Hike through stunning eucalyptus forests and canyons.
  • Ride the Scenic World railway, cableway, and skyway for breathtaking views.
  • Visit charming mountain towns like Katoomba and Leura.
  • Explore waterfalls and Aboriginal rock art.

Relax and Discover Port Stephens (North of Sydney)

  • Go dolphin watching in the pristine waters of the bay.
  • Climb the Stockton Sand Dunes, the largest moving coastal dunes in the Southern Hemisphere.
  • Try sandboarding or quad biking on the dunes.
  • Relax on beautiful beaches like Shoal Bay and Nelson Bay.
  • Hike to the top of Tomaree Head for panoramic coastal views.

Experience the Laid-Back Vibe of Byron Bay

  • Surf the famous breaks at Main Beach or The Pass.
  • Walk to the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse, Australia's most easterly point.
  • Kayak with dolphins in the bay.
  • Explore the eclectic shops and cafes in town.
  • Enjoy live music and a vibrant nightlife.

Relax and Explore in Brisbane

  • Stroll along the South Bank Parklands with its lagoon and cultural precinct.
  • Visit the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) and Queensland Museum.
  • Explore the City Botanic Gardens.
  • Take a kayak or paddleboard on the Brisbane River.
  • Enjoy the vibrant dining and nightlife scene in Fortitude Valley and West End.

Discover the Natural Beauty of the Sunshine Coast

  • Relax on the beautiful beaches of Noosa, Mooloolaba, and Caloundra.
  • Explore Noosa National Park with its coastal walks and wildlife.
  • Visit Australia Zoo, home of the Crocodile Hunter.
  • Discover the Glass House Mountains with their unique volcanic peaks.
  • Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and local markets.

Explore the Unique Fraser Island (K'gari)

  • Drive a 4WD along the vast 75 Mile Beach.
  • Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake McKenzie.
  • Visit the Maheno shipwreck on the beach.
  • Explore the rainforest growing on sand.
  • Spot wild dingoes in their natural habitat.

Experience the Gold Coast's Thrills and Beaches

  • Enjoy world-famous surfing beaches like Surfers Paradise.
  • Visit thrilling theme parks like Dreamworld, Warner Bros. Movie World, and Sea World.
  • Explore the lush hinterland with rainforests and waterfalls.
  • Experience vibrant nightlife, dining, and shopping.
  • Take a hot air balloon ride over the coast and hinterland.

Discover the Tranquil Whitsunday Islands

  • Sail through the stunning turquoise waters.
  • Snorkel or dive in the fringing reefs.
  • Hike to Hill Inlet lookout for breathtaking views.
  • Consider a stay on one of the resort islands.

Explore the Tropical Charm of Cairns and Northern Queensland

  • Discover the ancient Daintree Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Visit Kuranda Village via the scenic Kuranda Scenic Railway or Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
  • Explore the Atherton Tablelands with its waterfalls, lakes, and charming towns.
  • Snorkel or dive on the outer Great Barrier Reef from Cairns.
  • Experience Aboriginal culture through guided tours and art centers.

Discover the Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef (Departing from Cairns)

  • Access the Inner Reef islands like Green Island and Fitzroy Island via a short boat trip.
  • Join day tours to the Outer Reef pontoons (e.g., Norman Reef, Hastings Reef, Agincourt Reef) for snorkeling, diving, and semi-submersible experiences.
  • Consider liveaboard dive and snorkel trips for multi-day exploration.
  • Take scenic helicopter flights over the reef.

Discover the Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef (Departing from Airlie Beach & The Whitsundays)

  • Join sailing tours that include snorkeling and diving on various reef locations.
  • Take day trips to the Outer Reef (e.g., Hardy Reef) from the mainland or island resorts.
  • Experience the Reefsleep overnight pontoon for a unique stay.
  • Enjoy scenic flights over the Whitsunday Islands and Heart Reef.

South Coast & Tasmania

Experience the Vibrant City of Melbourne

  • Explore the city's laneways filled with street art, cafes, and boutiques.
  • Visit iconic landmarks like Federation Square, Flinders Street Station and the grounds of the F1 circuit.
  • Immerse yourself in arts and culture at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV).
  • Catch a sporting event at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
  • Enjoy the diverse culinary scene and vibrant nightlife.

Discover the Penguins of Phillip Island (Near Melbourne)

  • Witness the nightly Penguin Parade as little penguins return to their burrows.
  • Explore the island's wildlife, including koalas and seals.
  • Visit the Nobbies Centre for stunning coastal views and seal colonies.

Explore the Food and Wine Regions of Victoria

  • Visit the Yarra Valley for wineries and stunning scenery.
  • Discover the Mornington Peninsula with its wineries, hot springs, and coastal views.
  • Explore the Macedon Ranges and its historic gardens and wineries.

Explore the National Capital of Canberra

  • Visit Parliament House and its beautiful kept grounds.
  • Explore the Australian War Memorial, a significant national landmark.
  • Discover national treasures at the National Gallery of Australia.
  • Wander around Lake Burley Griffin and enjoy its recreational activities.

Drive the Stunning Great Ocean Road

  • Witness the iconic Twelve Apostles rock formations.
  • Explore the dramatic coastal scenery, including Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge.
  • Drive through charming seaside towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay.
  • Hike through the rainforest in Great Otway National Park and see waterfalls.
  • Spot koalas in their natural habitat along Kennett River.

Experience the Wilderness of Wilsons Promontory National Park (Victoria)

  • Enjoy stunning coastal walks and hiking trails.
  • Spot diverse wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and wombats.
  • Relax on pristine beaches like Squeaky Beach with its unique sand.
  • Go camping in scenic campgrounds.
  • Hike to the iconic Tidal River.

Discover the Charm of Adelaide and South Australia

  • Explore the cultural boulevard of North Terrace with its museums and art galleries.
  • Visit the Adelaide Central Market for local produce and treats.
  • Take a day trip to the Barossa Valley, Australia's famous wine region.
  • Discover the wildlife and rugged beauty of Kangaroo Island.
  • Relax on the beaches of Glenelg.

Explore the Natural Beauty of Tasmania

  • Hike in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
  • Visit the historic Port Arthur convict site.
  • Explore the vibrant city of Hobart, including Salamanca Place and MONA (Museum of Old and New Art).
  • Drive the scenic East Coast and visit Freycinet National Park (Wineglass Bay).
  • Discover the rugged beauty of the West Coast, including Strahan and the Gordon River.
  • Explore the Huon Valley and its apple orchards.

Experience Tasmania's Rugged West Coast

  • Take a cruise on the Gordon River through pristine wilderness.
  • Visit the mining town of Queenstown with its stark landscape.
  • Explore the Tarkine Wilderness, a vast area of rainforest and wild rivers.
  • Ride the West Coast Wilderness Railway.
  • Experience the dramatic coastline and surf beaches.

West Coast

Experience the Cosmopolitan City of Perth & its Beaches

  • Explore Kings Park and Botanic Garden for stunning city and Swan River views.
  • Relax or surf at popular beaches like Cottesloe and Scarborough.
  • Take a ferry to Rottnest Island and cycle around, spotting quokkas.
  • Enjoy the vibrant dining and nightlife scene.
  • Visit the Art Gallery of Western Australia.
  • Explore the Elizabeth Quay waterfront precinct.

Explore the Historic Charm & Surf Culture of Fremantle

  • Wander through the well-preserved Victorian architecture.
  • Visit the Fremantle Markets for local crafts, food, and buskers (Fridays to Sundays).
  • Explore the Fremantle Prison, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Discover the Western Australian Maritime Museum.
  • Enjoy the lively cafe culture and street performers.
  • Catch some waves at nearby beaches like Leighton or Port Beach.
  • Sample craft beers at local breweries.

Discover the World-Class Wineries & Surf of the Margaret River Region

  • Visit numerous wineries and enjoy wine tasting experiences.
  • Surf renowned breaks like Surfers Point, Yallingup, and Injidup.
  • Explore stunning beaches and other surf spots for all levels.
  • Discover ancient caves like Mammoth Cave and Lake Cave.
  • Walk through towering karri forests and indulge in local gourmet food.

Experience the Underwater Wonders & Coastal Beauty of the Ningaloo Reef

  • Snorkel or dive alongside whale sharks (seasonal).
  • Explore vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life.
  • Relax or surf at the beaches of Coral Bay and Exmouth.
  • Kayak or paddleboard in the calm lagoons.

Explore the Remote Beauty of Broome and the Kimberley Region

  • Witness the Staircase to the Moon phenomenon over Roebuck Bay (seasonal).
  • Ride a camel along Cable Beach at sunset.
  • Explore the dramatic gorges and waterfalls of the Kimberley (e.g., Horizontal Falls, Mitchell Falls).
  • Discover Aboriginal art and culture.

Discover the Unique Landscape of the Pinnacles Desert (Near Perth)

  • Explore the unique landscape of thousands of limestone pillars rising from the sand.
  • Visit the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre to learn about the formation of the pinnacles.
  • Enjoy stargazing in this remote and dark sky location.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the coastal town of Cervantes.

Explore the Historic Town of Albany and the South Coast

  • Visit the National Anzac Centre to learn about Australia's involvement in World War I.
  • Explore the rugged coastline and natural wonders like the Gap and Natural Bridge.
  • Discover beautiful beaches, some offering surfing opportunities like Ocean Beach.
  • Learn about Albany's role as the first European settlement in Western Australia.

Experience the Unique Ecosystem of Shark Bay

  • See the stromatolites at Hamelin Pool, living fossils.
  • Observe dolphins at Monkey Mia.
  • Explore Shell Beach, made entirely of tiny white shells.
  • Look for dugongs and other marine life.

Discover the Inland Wonders: Kalgoorlie and the Goldfields

  • Visit the Super Pit, one of Australia's largest open-cut gold mines.
  • Explore the historic streets and architecture of Kalgoorlie.
  • Learn about the region's gold rush history.

Central Region & The North

Witness the Majesty of Uluru (Ayers Rock)

  • Observe the changing colors of Uluru at sunrise and sunset.
  • Take a base walk around the rock to appreciate its size and features.
  • Learn about the Anangu traditional owners and their cultural significance of Uluru.
  • Visit the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre.

Explore Alice Springs and the Red Centre

  • Visit the Alice Springs Desert Park to learn about the unique desert flora and fauna.
  • Explore the Royal Flying Doctor Service Alice Springs Tourist Facility.
  • Hike in the West MacDonnell Ranges and discover gorges like Simpsons Gap and Standley Chasm.
  • Visit the Alice Springs Reptile Centre.
  • Learn about Aboriginal art at local galleries.

Explore the Dramatic Kings Canyon (Watarrka National Park)

  • Hike the Rim Walk for stunning views of the canyon and its unique formations.
  • Descend into the Garden of Eden, a lush waterhole within the canyon.
  • Take the shorter Kings Creek Walk along the canyon floor.
  • Learn about the traditional owners and the cultural significance of the area.

Discover the Tropical City of Darwin

  • Visit the Mindil Beach Sunset Market (Thursdays and Sundays during the dry season).
  • Explore the Darwin Waterfront Precinct with its lagoon and wave pool.
  • Learn about the region's history at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT).
  • See crocodiles up close at Crocosaurus Cove.

Experience the Natural Wonders of Kakadu National Park

  • See ancient Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr and Nourlangie Rock.
  • Take a Yellow Water Billabong cruise to spot wildlife.
  • Hike to waterfalls like Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls (seasonal access).
  • Explore the diverse landscapes of wetlands, escarpments, and woodlands.
  • Learn about the Bininj/Mungguy traditional owners.

Experience the Waterfalls and Nature of Litchfield National Park (Near Darwin)

  • Swim in the natural pools beneath Wangi Falls and Florence Falls.
  • See the unique magnetic termite mounds.
  • Hike to Tolmer Falls for stunning escarpment views.
  • Explore the monsoon rainforests and sandstone plateaus.

Explore Katherine and Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge)

  • Take a boat cruise through the stunning Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk Gorge).
  • Canoe or kayak along the river.
  • Hike to viewpoints overlooking the gorge system.

Discover the Tiwi Islands (Near Darwin)

  • Take a day trip or extended tour to experience the unique Tiwi culture.
  • Visit local art centers and learn about their distinct art styles.
  • Go fishing with local guides.
  • Learn about their traditions and history.

Suggested Travel Itinerary

Australia - 16 Weeks

Days 1-10: Sydney & New South Wales Exploration

  • Arrive in Sydney. Explore iconic landmarks (Opera House, Harbour Bridge), Bondi Beach, the Rocks, city culture and dining.
  • Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains.
  • Scenic coastal drive, Jervis Bay (beaches, dolphins), explore towns like Ulladulla and Narooma, Murramarang National Park.
  • Travel to Canberra (National Capital). Explore key attractions (Parliament House, War Memorial).
  • Explore the Snowy Mountains and/or Hunter Valley wine region.

Days 11-32: Melbourne & Victoria's Diverse Landscapes

  • Immerse yourself in Melbourne's vibrant city life.
  • Explore hidden laneways, discover a thriving arts scene, wander through the Royal Botanic Gardens, catch a sporting event (seasonal), and soak up the atmosphere of its diverse neighborhoods.
  • Embark on the iconic Great Ocean Road: witness the dramatic Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge, explore charming coastal towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay, and discover the lush rainforests of the Great Otway National Park.
  • Indulge in the renowned wineries and scenic beauty of the Yarra Valley.
  • Relax on the stunning beaches and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs of the Mornington Peninsula.
  • Enjoy breathtaking coastal walks in Wilsons Promontory National Park.
  • Witness the Penguin Parade on Phillip Island.

Days 33-47: Tasmania's Natural Beauty & History

  • Drive the scenic east coast, stopping at charming towns like Bicheno and Swansea. Visit Freycinet National Park for hiking to Wineglass Bay and exploring the pink granite Hazards. Consider a wildlife cruise or kayaking.
  • Explore Hobart's historic waterfront, Salamanca Place, and the fascinating MONA. Take a day trip to the historic Port Arthur Convict Site. Consider a hike up kunanyi/Mount Wellington for panoramic views.
  • Experience the rugged beauty of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park with its stunning hiking trails (from easy strolls to challenging multi-day treks). Discover the wild West Coast, perhaps visiting Strahan and taking a Gordon River cruise through ancient rainforest.
  • Visit the Bay of Fires for its orange-hued rocks. Explore the lavender farms in the north, and delve into the art scene in Launceston.

Days 48-53: Byron Bay Surfing & Exploration

  • Immerse yourself in the laid-back surf culture of Byron Bay.
  • Catch some waves at its famous beaches (The Pass, Main Beach, Wategos).
  • Visit the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse for stunning coastal views.
  • Explore the eclectic shops and vibrant cafes.
  • Discover the natural beauty of the hinterland.

Days 54-74: Queensland's Coasts & Hinterland

  • Explore Brisbane and South Bank. Consider a day trip to the Glass House Mountains or Tamborine Mountain.
  • Experience the Gold Coast's beaches, theme parks (optional), and nightlife. Explore the hinterland rainforests.
  • Relax on the Sunshine Coast beaches (Noosa, Mooloolaba). Hike in Noosa National Park. Visit Australia Zoo. Explore Eumundi Markets or Montville.
  • Optional: Whale watching (seasonal), Fraser Island tour, or more time in the hinterland.

Days 75-85: The Great Barrier Reef & Tropical North Queensland

  • Sail through the stunning Whitsunday Islands. Relax on Whitehaven Beach and swim in the turquoise waters.
  • Snorkel or dive the Great Barrier Reef from Airlie Beach or the Whitsundays, experiencing diverse marine life.
  • Explore Cairns and Port Douglas. Access the Outer Reef for exceptional diving and snorkeling.
  • Discover the ancient Daintree Rainforest and visit Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the reef.
  • Ride the scenic Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Explore the Kuranda village.
  • Optional: Explore the Atherton Tablelands with its waterfalls, crater lakes, and unique wildlife.

Days 86-96: Central Australia

  • Fly to Alice Springs. Explore the town, visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the Alice Springs Desert Park.
  • Experience the awe-inspiring Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas). Consider sunrise and sunset viewings and cultural tours.
  • Visit Kings Canyon (Watarrka National Park) for dramatic gorges and hiking trails (requires extra days).

Days 96-106: Western Australia Highlights

  • Explore Perth's city center, Kings Park for panoramic views, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of its beaches like Cottesloe and Scarborough.
  • Enjoy a leisurely day trip (or an overnight stay) to Rottnest Island. Cycle around the island, discover its stunning beaches and bays.
  • Explore the historic port city of Fremantle. Wander through its well-preserved Victorian architecture, visit the Fremantle Markets, explore the Maritime Museum, and enjoy the vibrant arts and dining scene.
  • Take a few days to explore the Margaret River region. Indulge in wine tasting at some of its renowned wineries, explore the stunning coastline with its dramatic cliffs and surf breaks.