Ultimate East & South Coast Adventure

Discover the beauty of the Blue Mountains on a deluxe day tour with AEA Luxury Tours. Enjoy a luxurious, all-inclusive experience as you visit breathtaking lookouts, iconic landmarks like the Three Sisters, and hidden gems, all while travelling in the comfort of a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle. With an expert guide sharing insights throughout the day, you’ll explore stunning landscapes, enjoy a scenic bushwalk, and indulge in a delicious lunch at an award-winning local restaurant. This small-group tour ensures a more intimate and relaxed experience of the Blue Mountains.

Explore Sydney's rich history and vibrant coastal scene on this small group tour. Begin in the Rocks, learning about early convict life and marvelling at 18th-century sandstone architecture. From Mrs. Macquaries Point, capture iconic photos of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Travel through the affluent Eastern Suburbs, passing through Kings Cross and Double Bay en route to Watsons Bay for a coastal walk. Conclude your tour at famous Bondi Beach, where you can feel the sand between your toes and watch surfers before returning to the city through the stylish boutiques of Paddington.

Experience the breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Sydney, whilst scaling the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge on BridgeClimb’s original Climb experience. Feel on top of the world as you journey along the upper arch to the peak of an Australian icon, soaking in the stories from your expert Climb Leader and the sights of the Harbour and the City skyline that surround you.

Step aboard a modern 78ft cruiser to begin your stunning Sydney Harbour Dinner Cruise. Designed with luxury and superb comfort in mind and with plenty of room on board, expansive main, upper, and sun decks offer 360-degree views of all the harbour’s iconic attractions as you sail past. The Sydney Harbour is photogenic at any time, but sunset is particularly special, and once the sun goes down, the gleaming cityscape comes alive in glittering lights. This dinner cruise allows you to experience the harbour from both beautiful perspectives.
This dinner experience is a long, lavish affair, with generous meals showcasing locally sourced and regionally influenced delicacies, paired with an expansive collection of beers, wine, soft drinks, tea, or coffee.

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range or ask our team for a suggestion. From compact economy to prestige SUVs. First time driving in Australia? Check out this helpful guide.
Please note, a one-way fee may apply

Head to the Sydney CBD depot today to collect your chosen rental car, and continue your journey.

After departing Sydney through the leafy northern suburbs, take the scenic route to the Central Coast. A popular stop on the way is the Australian Reptile Park, where you can see an array of local animals and even feed a kangaroo or cuddle a koala.
Continuing along the highway, you should take some time to explore the area with towns like Terrigal, Avoca Beach and The Entrance which are home to long sandy beaches, popular surf breaks, and great cafes and restaurants.
Continue north, skirting Lake Macquarie, Australia's largest coastal saltwater lake and pass Newcastle, the second biggest city in NSW, before arriving at Port Stephens.

With 26 sandy beaches, an idyllic blue bay, and a backdrop of giant sand dunes, Port Stephens is a true paradise. The area boasts one of Australia's highest populations of bottlenose dolphins and offers many sheltered coves perfect for families. Choose from a variety of activities, including swimming with the dolphins, or enjoying a day of diving, surfing, or snorkelling. You can also get up close with local wildlife, even touching a shark or cuddling a ray at a nearby marine park. For those who love adventure, get an adrenaline rush by quad biking or sand boarding down the towering Stockton Sand Dunes, the Southern Hemisphere's largest moving coastal dunes. You can also explore the many bush walks, or taste the local fresh-caught seafood.

Set sail on a fantastic 1.5-hour Dolphin Discovery Cruise in Port Stephens, Australia's "Dolphin Capital"! Join Moonshadow TQC as you search for over 160 resident bottlenose dolphins amidst the stunning Tomaree and Yacaaba headlands. Enjoy lively commentary from your captain, sharing fascinating insights. For an added splash of fun, try boom netting, safely towed through the water, a unique, exhilarating experience! With excellent dolphin sighting rates, comfortable viewing, and a licensed bar, it's a truly memorable way to connect with Port Stephens' vibrant marine life.

Port Stephens is famous for its beautiful beaches, coastal walks, national parks, resident wild dolphins, and pristine waters. There are 26 sandy beaches, some sheltered in bays that are perfect for families as well as swimming, snorkelling and kayaking. The towering Stockton sand dunes are great for sandboarding, quad biking and horseriding or visit the Koala Sanctuary and have lunch with the koalas! 

Today's drive begins by following the bay around to the north to rejoin the Pacific Highway and cross the Karuah River. Your drive to Port Macquarie is along the Legendary Pacific Coast Drive, one of the state's most beautiful routes. If you aren't in a rush and feel like a detour to explore more of the coast, then you will be rewarded by a stop in Forster. Seafood lovers can relax here over a lazy lunch of freshly oysters while overlooking the water. Port Macquarie is your destination for the day and is home to 17 beaches, beautiful scenic walks, and the Koala Hospital. If time allows, we recommend the 9km Coastal Walk from town to Lighthouse Beach.

Nestled along the stunning coastline of New South Wales, Port Macquarie is a vibrant seaside town known for its beautiful beaches, lush hinterlands, and rich history. This coastal gem offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure. Port Macquarie boasts a variety of pristine beaches, ideal for swimming, surfing, and soaking up the sun. Nature lovers can explore the nearby coastal walks, including the famous Coastal Walk, which offers breathtaking views of the ocean and chances to spot whales during migration season. The town is also home to the Koala Hospital, where visitors can learn about conservation efforts and see koalas up close.
For history enthusiasts, Port Macquarie’s heritage is on display at sites like the Historic Courthouse and the Port Macquarie Museum, which showcase the town’s colonial past. The vibrant town center offers a range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

Today's drive will cover about 400km (250 miles) up the Pacific Coast, leaving you plenty of opportunities to stop off and take in the sights. From Port Macquarie, head north on Pacific Highway (A1) for about 150km (93 miles) to reach your first stop of the day, Coffs Harbour. Home to the iconic Big Banana, Australia's first "big thing" built back in 1964. Stop at the cafe for a coffee or banana split, or head into town to take a stroll on the Coffs Harbour Jetty. From Coffs Harbour, snake along the coast for 120km until you reach signs for Yamba. This sleepy hamlet has beaches that rival those of Byron Bay but remain a little more low-profile. Take a stroll on one of the beautiful beaches, or head to the Pacific Hotel for some great views. From Yamba, return to the Pacific Highway (A1) and continue to head north. If you want an opportunity to spot a second "big thing" today, take a short detour into Ballina to see the Big Prawn. Back on the highway, it's just 30km (18 miles) further to your final destination, Byron Bay.

The Night Vision Walk is a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Imagine exploring the Australian rainforest at night, searching for nocturnal wildlife. Instead of wielding a torch, you’re incognito, wearing special night vision goggles. This is military grade technology that lets you see animals as they go about their business.

Sunrise flights over the Byron Bay region – Australia’s most easterly point – gives you the unique opportunity to be the first to watch the morning’s sunrise over the Australian mainland from the air. Each of the Byron Bay region flights is unique and the location of the morning’s launch site will depend on the wind conditions of the day, so your flight could be taking in magnificent views of the ocean, the hinterland, or the vast diversity of scenery around the famed counterculture meccas of Bangalow, Mullumbimby, Nimbin or Lismore.

Byron Bay, located on the easternmost point of Australia, is a vibrant and picturesque coastal town that has something for everyone, from breathtaking natural beauty to a laid-back atmosphere. Known for its stunning beaches, lush hinterland, and thriving arts scene, Byron Bay offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal destination for all types of travellers.
For those seeking adventure, start your day with a sunrise hot air balloon experience. Drift high above the stunning landscapes as you watch the first light of the day spill over the coastal town, hinterland, and nearby beaches. It's a serene way to experience the beauty of Byron Bay from a unique perspective. For an up-close encounter with the ocean, try sea kayaking through the crystal-clear waters. Paddle along the iconic Main Beach or venture to Wategos Beach, where you may encounter dolphins, turtles, and other marine life in their natural habitat. The gentle waves and scenic coastline make for a memorable and immersive adventure.
Byron Bay is also home to the famous Cape Byron Lighthouse, perched on the highest point of the eastern coast. Take a lighthouse walk along the trail that offers spectacular panoramic views of the coastline, from the rocky cliffs to the shimmering ocean below. At the end of the walk, enjoy the iconic lighthouse, a perfect spot for photos, and a great place to catch a breathtaking sunrise or sunset. If you’re looking to explore the hinterland, the Byron Bay hinterland offers lush rainforests, waterfalls, and hiking trails, where you can disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. There are also numerous wellness retreats and yoga classes available, perfect for anyone seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in a peaceful, natural environment.

You’ll need a good two hours to properly experience the Cape Byron walking track – but it’s rich in delights, so don’t be surprised if you reach the end and feel like doing it all again. In fact, it’s one of the best ways to spend a couple of hours on the state’s entire coast.

The loop walk can be started at numerous points, including Captain Cook lookout, The Pass, Wategos Beach and Cape Byron Lighthouse. To get there follow Lawson Street (which becomes Lighthouse Road) from Byron Bay town centre and look for the signs.

The 3.7km loop leads you on a hike through rainforest and across clifftops with stunning views of the ocean and hinterland.
En route you’ll wander through the shade of bangalow palms and ancient burrawangs, across kangaroo grasslands, along picturesque beaches and up to Cape Byron Lighthouse. Remember to keep an eye out on the water for turtles, dolphins, stingrays and, in season, whales..

Please note that National Park Fees may apply.

It’s only a short drive north from Byron to Cabarita Beach, but the journey is dotted with plenty of charming seaside towns worth a stop. Begin with a detour south to Lennox Point, a world-class surf break within a National Surf Reserve, where you can watch the surfers or simply take in the coastal views.  From Lennox Head, make your way up the coast to Brunswick Heads, a small, unspoilt coastal village, situated at the mouth of the Brunswick River. Brunswick Heads is all about the simpler side of life and unlike its neighbour, Byron Bay, it has retained its traditional seaside village atmosphere, with fewer tourists than other towns on the coast. From Brunswick Heads, drive to Hastings Point, a sleepy coastal town, well known for its incredible beaches and laid-back atmosphere.The town is enveloped by verdant national park, with the ocean to the east, and the beautiful, yet delicate, estuary on the west. The area is known nationally as the Green Cauldron and is one of the most unique seaside towns in the country. It’s the perfect place for those looking to reconnect with nature. End the day in Cabarita Beach, the perfect getaway for when you want to put your feet up and enjoy a lazy day reading by the beach.

Cabarita Beach, located on the stunning Tweed Coast in New South Wales, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and laid-back charm. This coastal paradise is renowned for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush surrounding greenery, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and outdoor activities. One of the must-do activities in Cabarita Beach is exploring the scenic walking trails that wind through the area, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and opportunities to spot local wildlife. Surfing enthusiasts will find some of the best waves in the region, with several surf spots catering to all skill levels. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, a visit to the Cabarita Beach Headland is a must. This elevated vantage point provides panoramic views of the ocean and is a popular spot for whale watching during the migration season. In addition to its natural attractions, Cabarita Beach boasts a vibrant local scene with charming cafes, boutique shops, and a variety of dining options. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the beachfront restaurants while soaking in the stunning ocean views. The nearby Cudgen Nature Reserve offers a peaceful escape into nature, with walking and biking trails that meander through wetlands and forests, perfect for a day of exploration and birdwatching. Whether you're looking to surf the waves, hike scenic trails, or simply unwind on the beach, Cabarita Beach provides an idyllic setting for a memorable getaway.

The Scenic Rim driving route between Gold Coast and Brisbane is one of spectacular beauty, bursting with stunning mountain ranges and unique topography. Nestled in an ancient volcanic caldera, its abundance of flora, fauna, scenery and local produce is not to be missed.
Begin your journey by making your way westbound out of the city towards Nerang, and from there carry on west to Canungra. Once you reach Canungra, you will head south on Lamington National Park Road.
This UNESCO World Heritage site will take your breath away with its exceptional beauty. Home to rainforest, ancient trees, deep valleys and streams, you can immerse yourself in its 160km of walking trails. If you are looking for an easy walk, head for the Centenary Track which should take roughly 30 minutes. If you're feeling a bit more invigorated, carry on to the Morans Falls Track from Centenary Track for a 2 hour return journey.
After you've had your fix of short walks, head back to Canungra before heading north towards Tamborine Mountain. Home to a Rainforest Skywalk, Treetop Challenge, and brewery, there is something for everyone in the family. The plateau is the product of lava flow from the Mount Warning volcanic eruption 22 million years ago and prior to European settlement, it was inhabited by Aboriginal People for tens of thousands of years. Today, it is celebrated for its natural beauty, exceptional fresh produce and abundance of outdoor activities.
Drive north towards Brisbane and if you're still hungry, Yatala Pies are a Queensland icon, making meat pies for over 130 years and definitely worth a quick stop. From here, get back on the motorway and follow it all the way into Brisbane.

Enjoy a luxurious wine tasting of Sirromet's most highly awarded wines. These carefully selected premium award-winning wines include Sirromet's unique wild yeast-fermented Le Sauvage range and Private Collection LM Assemblage. Then sit back and relax while taking in the breathtaking scenery spread across the vast Sirromet Winery Estate as you indulge in your premium winery hamper for two. Complete with the finest selection of locally sourced meats, cheese, sweets wine, and everything you will need to sit back and enjoy the atmosphere. 

Head north out of Brisbane and through the Glass House Mountains towards Beerwah. This area is a playground of walking tracks and stunning views.  Before you reach the Zoo, you can go for the 30-minute Tibrogargan circuit and easy Glass House Mountains Lookout Track with sweeping views of Moreton Island and Brisbane. After you enjoyed short walks, head towards Beerwah, home of Steve Irwin's Australia Zoo, where you can see over one hundred different species including crocodiles, Tasmanian devils, koalas, wombats and dingoes.

Unlock a full day of wildlife adventure with the Australia Zoo One Day Admission Pass. Set across 110 acres, this iconic zoo, made famous by the late Steve Irwin, offers an unforgettable experience with up-close encounters with Australia’s most iconic animals. Explore the expansive grounds, where you’ll meet koalas, kangaroos, wombats, and the famous crocodiles in their natural habitats. Enjoy thrilling shows like the Wildlife Warriors demonstration, where saltwater crocodiles leap from the water’s edge in a spectacular display. Visit the Wildlife Hospital, one of the busiest in the world, and witness firsthand the vital care given to endangered animals. Discover the Tiger Temple, home to majestic Sumatran and Bengal tigers, and stroll through Queensland’s only multi-species African exhibit. With a variety of live presentations, animal encounters, and opportunities to learn about conservation efforts, the Australia Zoo One Day Admission Pass offers a full day of fun and education. 

Explore more of Brisbane before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

The cost for this flight is additional to your tour, we can book this flight for you.

A private transfer will meet you on arrival at the airport and transfer you to your Cairns accommodation.

Immerse yourself in the magic of the underwater world after dark with Aquarium by Twilight! This exclusive, after-hours tour unlocks the hidden wonders of Cairns Aquarium as day surrenders to twilight. Embark on a captivating two-hour journey with our expert guide, traversing 10 breathtaking ecosystems. Witness the vibrant coral reefs transform as colorful fish seek shelter, and watch in awe as nocturnal creatures emerge from their daytime hiding spots. Witness the captivating transition as reptiles, amphibians, and even sharks come alive under the soft glow of the evening. Learn about the fascinating adaptations that allow animals to thrive from day to night in the Wet Tropics. Gain insights into the world of nocturnal predators like sharks, rays, and groupers, and discover their vital role in the delicate balance of the underwater ecosystem. Afterwars, indulge in a delicious three-course dinner for adults or a two-course meal for children at Dundee's Waterfront Restaurant, boasting stunning views of the aquarium. 

Experience this scenic journey on the Kuranda Scenic Railway to the 'village in the rainforest'. Your day begins in Cairns as you board the train for a morning departure. Travel through unsurpassed views of World Heritage-listed rainforest and waterfalls, including Stoney Creek Falls and the breathtaking Barron Gorge. You will wind your way through 15 tunnels and over 37 bridges on your journey before reaching Kuranda, where you will have several hours to explore the village. Visit the award-winning attractions Birdworld, Kuranda Koala Gardens and the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary. In the afternoon you will board the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for a journey up and over the rainforest canopy, back to the Skyrail terminal where you will be transported back to the Cairns railway station.

The mountain retreat of Kuranda Village is nestled into the world's oldest living tropical rainforest, just 25 kilometres northwest of Cairns. The tiny town is a vivid mix of quirkiness, interesting characters and natural beauty all perched atop a mountain. The colourful village is accessible by either driving up the mountain range, travelling up in the Skyrail Cableway, or winding through the Barron Gorge on board the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Once you are here, there are a range of things to experience. To get your fix of retail therapy, head to the Kuranda Markets and quaint stores throughout the village. Experience the surrounding nature on a river cruise, and get friendly with the local wildlife at the Kuranda Koala Gardens and Birdworld Kuranda.

Experience the ultimate reef getaway with the 2 Day, 1 Night Snorkel Adventure aboard Reef Encounter. Enjoy spacious stateroom accommodation, gourmet meals, and access to world-class snorkelling sites on the Great Barrier Reef. With small group experiences and personalised service, immerse yourself in vibrant coral gardens and marine life, creating memories to last a lifetime.

Travel from Cairns City to the Outer Great Barrier Reef for a truly unique liveaboard experience on the Reef Encounters floating hotel cruise. Enjoy scuba diving, scuba diving courses, unlimited snorkelling, excellent cuisine, and fabulous facilities and accommodation out amongst the natural beauty, tropical fish, and marine life of the Outer Great Barrier Reef.
Day one of your Liveaboard Snorkel Adventure begins with your boarding of the vessel Reef Experience at Cairns Marlin Marina for a transfer to the Reef Encounter. A buffet-style breakfast of BBQ bacon and egg rolls is served at 8:30 am. Shortly thereafter, you will arrive onboard the Reef Encounter for a warm welcome and safety briefing. You will then check into your room at 10 am, before beginning your first snorkelling water session at 10:30 am. A BBQ buffet-style lunch is served at 12 pm. At 1 pm water briefings will be given for certified divers, into scuba diving, and snorkel adventures, and at 1:30 pm the next water session begins. At 3:00 pm, the Reef Encounter moves to an entirely new reef for your exploration, with the next water session beginning at 3:30 pm. Dependent on the season, Dinner will be served in the Dining Saloon between the hours of 6 and 7:15 pm, followed shortly by dessert. Finally, you will return to your stateroom, for a night of rest in preparation for your next day of exploration on the Outer Great Barrier Reef.

Day two of your Liveaboard Snorkel Adventure begins with a 6:00 am wake-up call for an early morning dive and snorkel session beginning at 6:30 am. Buffet-style breakfast is served in the Dining Saloon at 7:30 am, and room checkout is at 8:00 am. At this time, the Reef Encounter will move to the next reef site. Two water sessions follow, at 8:30 am and 10:30 am. Buffet-style lunch is served in the Dining Saloon at 12:00 pm, followed by a final water session at 1:30 pm. At 2:45, you will board the Reef Experience for transfer back to Cairns. Refreshments including wine, cheese, and biscuits will be served at 3:15 pm, and you will arrive back at Cairns Marlin Marina at approximately 4:30 pm to conclude your Liveaboard Snorkel Adventure.

Expertly guided aboard one of Billy Tea Safari’s custom 4WD vehicles, this immersive wet-tropics experience showcases the flora, fauna and diverse landscapes of the oldest continually surviving rainforest on the planet. Highlights include a scenic coastal drive, Daintree River cruise, guided rainforest walk, lunch in a beautiful rainforest setting, opportunity for an invigorating rainforest swim, free time at Cape Tribulation beach, complimentary tropical fruit ice-cream and a cable ferry crossing of the Daintree River.

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to the airport in time for your departing flight.

The cost for this flight is additional to your tour. Please contact your Sales Consultant if you would like us to book this flight for you at an additional cost. 

You will be met at your Melbourne accommodation by the driver and transferred to the Melbourne Airport.

Welcome to Melbourne, a city that thrives on creativity, diversity, and an undeniable energy. Stroll through its laneways, where vibrant street art and tucked-away cafes create a buzzing atmosphere, or step into historic arcades like the Block Arcade, offering boutique shopping with a touch of old-world charm. The city’s dining scene is legendary, from multicultural precincts like Lygon Street to the bustling Queen Victoria Market, where fresh produce and artisan treats tempt every palate. Outdoors, Melbourne provides riverside walks along the Yarra, the tranquillity of the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the beachside vibe of St Kilda. 

The City Circle Tram service provides a free and convenient way to get around central Melbourne. Tourists, shoppers, office workers and families can use the City Circle Tram to travel to major attractions, shops and city events. An audio commentary provides details of city landmarks and major attractions such as the City Museum, Parliament House, Docklands, Federation Square, Melbourne Aquarium and the Princess Theatre. You can spend all day, or stay one hour - this is a perfect free version of a hop on-hop off service so that you can enjoy each of Melbournes sites with the added bonus of traditional Melbourne transportation. 

Set off early from Melbourne to beat the crowds and experience the very best of the Great Ocean Road on this small-group tour. Discover iconic landmarks including the 12 Apostles, Gibson Steps, Loch Ard Gorge, and the lush rainforest of Maits Rest. Spot koalas in the wild at Kennett River and explore charming coastal towns with world-famous surf beaches. Enjoy a serene rainforest walk and soak in panoramic ocean views along this scenic drive. Rich in natural beauty and history, this tour blends wildlife, landscapes, and unforgettable moments—perfect for those wanting a true taste of Australia’s stunning southern coastline.

Experience the best of Melbourne in just three hours. This “complete” experience is meant to tell the whole story of Melbourne in an economical time - from how we got to be known as the world’s coffee capital, to where the find the best street art.
Your guide will entertain you with stories of Melbourne’s humble beginnings to the Gold Rush era that changed everything. Explore Chinatown and discover Melbourne’s multicultural edge. Hear the guide brag about the Melbourne cafe scene and then deliver the goods, as they buy you a famous Melbourne coffee! Finish up like a “fair dinkum” Aussie – at a pub of course! Let your guide grab you a cold beer (or soda/cider) and take questions and give advice on other Melbourne highlights.

Indulge in an evening aboard the Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise, with Melbourne River Cruises. This elegant experience offers a unique perspective of Melbourne's glittering cityscape as you dine on a meticulously crafted multi-course menu featuring fresh, local produce. Glide along the tranquil waters of the Yarra River, passing iconic landmarks like Flinders Street Station, Federation Square, and the Arts Centre, all beautifully illuminated against the night sky. Live entertainment provides the perfect soundtrack to your journey, creating a sophisticated and romantic atmosphere. The Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise promises an evening of culinary delights, stunning views, and an unparalleled ambience. Relax, unwind, and create lasting memories as Melbourne unfolds before you.

Experience the Mornington Peninsula like a local with delicious food and wine, spectacular sightseeing, and an indulgent wellness experience, finishing at the famed Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs. Begin with a short walk (150m) through the bush to one of the best views of Port Phillip Bay and the Melbourne Skyline from atop Arthur’s Seat, with plenty of time for fantastic photo opportunities. Enjoy a sumptuous wine tasting and gourmet grazing lunch at an award-winning Red Hill winery, exploring the working vineyard and olive farm. Then, relax and immerse in over 50 thermal pools at the Peninsula Hot Springs, spending 3 hours in the tranquil bush setting. All of this is led by a friendly local guide, with the comfort of Premium Seating for the journey.

You will be met at your Melbourne accommodation by the driver and transferred to the Melbourne Airport.

Farewell Australia today. If there is more of Australia or New Zealand you would like to explore, talk to your sales consultant about planning your next stop!