VIA Travel: Best of East Coast Australia

Trade Sydney’s towering skyscrapers for the serenity of a wildlife park, where a personal ranger will guide you through encounters with koalas, kangaroos, and other Aussie favorites. Nestled in the heart of the Hunter Valley,  indulge in a delightful tasting tour of wine, cheese, and chocolate. To top off the day, explore the vibrant coastal city of Newcastle, rounding off an eclectic day

After breakfast, head to Port Macquarie for a heartwarming visit to the local koala hospital, where you will meet the dedicated volunteers who care for these adorable animals. Expect to come away with a deeper understanding about these often misunderstood creatures & how by joining our tour, you are supporting this amazing centre's conservation efforts. In the evening, unwind with a leisurely stroll along the foreshore, taking in the sounds of local birdlife, and keep an eye out for the wild dolphins that regularly grace the area. Dinner is on your own tonight, giving you the chance to explore at your own pace.

Take part in an immersive First Nations experience of the Gumbaynggirr nation, that will get you in touch with the traditional custodians of this land. Then we’re headed to Byron Bay, a laid-back surf paradise with boundless coastline, sand and friendly locals. We’ll pay a visit to Cape Byron, for a unique photo opportunity, and the chance for the eagle-eyed to spot dolphins, whales, and other marine life.

Today we’re talking relaxation, relaxation, and relaxation. Spend the morning on the warm sand, shopping for bargains, or indulge in one of our optional activities: surfing or kayaking plus many activities like balloon rides, whale watching, brewery tours etc. The day is all yours – put your feet up, head to a cosy bar, or watch the world go by from one of the local cafes.

Journey across the border and into Queensland, the Sunshine State! Along the way, you'll stop at Noosa, one of Australia’s top surf destinations and home to many champion surfers. Explore the stunning Noosa National Park, a natural haven for wildlife, and keep an eye out for koalas and other iconic Australian creatures in their natural habitat. From there, continue to the picturesque coastal town of Rainbow Beach, renowned for its colorful ancient sand dunes and striking beauty. After checking into your accommodation for the next two nights, take time to relax and soak up the town's laid-back atmosphere.

Ready, steady, go, for a once-in-a-lifetime 4WD K’Gari adventure today. Once known as Fraser Island, the destination has been returned to its original name K’gari. K’gari is the local Butchulla nation’s name for the island, meaning ‘paradise’ – you’ll find out why soon enough. You’ll never want to leave, as we explore the largest sand island in the world, kick back at some of Queensland’s most renowned lookouts, take a walk on the wild side in a lush rainforest, dive into Boorangoora (Lake McKenzie) a crystal-clear lake, see the famous S.S Maheno shipwreck and course go dingo-spotting along the golden 75 Mile Beach. The fun needn’t stop there; after the tour feel free to enjoy Carlo Sand Blow and Rainbow Beach, or put your feet up in your accommodation.

It’s Bris-vegas, baby! Journey to Queensland’s vibrant capital, Brisbane – soon to take the world stage as the host of the summer Olympics. Known for its laidback charm, year-round sunshine, and positive energy, this buzzing city embodies everything that makes Australia so iconic. From trendy riverside dining to thriving cultural hubs, Brisbane offers a blend of relaxed lifestyle and urban excitement. Start your exploration with a leisurely stroll along the iconic Brisbane River, where you'll soak up scenic views, iconic Story Bridge and get a feel for the city's pulse as you discover its best spots.

Airport time! Get ready for takeoff as you soar towards Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. This tropical paradise invites you to take a leisurely stroll through the charming town, where you can discover boutique shops and vibrant cafés, or kick back at a cool local bar for a refreshing drink. If you're in the mood for a swim or to simply soak up some sun, explore the local lagoon just off the main street. The afternoon is yours to enjoy in this stunning slice of Queensland heaven.

After breakfast, it’s time to set sail on a stunning cruise through the picture-perfect Whitsunday Islands, with a stop at the world-renowned Whitehaven Beach! This iconic beach stretches for seven kilometers, its shores washed by swirls of turquoise, blue, and green waters. The sand, made up of 98 percent pure white silica, sparkles with an almost luminescent glow. Dive into the clear waters and snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, encountering playful fish and curious turtles along the way. After your island adventure, the rest of the day is yours to relax or discover the town’s best food and drink spots at your leisure.

Today, you’ll embark on a long journey north, passing through rolling cane fields on your way to the breathtakingly scenic Mission Beach. It’s a full day on the road, but once you arrive, time is yours to enjoy. With a whole afternoon ahead, you can kick back and relax—whether that means catching up on some reading or lounging by the pool with a cold drink in hand, soaking in the tranquil tropical atmosphere. Mission Beach, a peaceful stretch of coastline framed by the Wet Tropics Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, is actually made up of four charming villages spread across 14km of palm-fringed shores. Despite its popularity, it retains a dreamy, laid-back vibe, where the friendly locals still outnumber the tourists. The area also boasts one of the highest concentrations of the endangered cassowary in Australia. These majestic, flightless birds can often be spotted wandering through gardens and fields, and sometimes even swimming across rivers.

Start your day with breakfast before venturing into the lush wet tropics of Far North Queensland. On your way to the Atherton Tablelands, stop to discover a magnificent plunge waterfall hidden deep within the dense tropical rainforest. Here, you can enjoy a cool and invigorating swim. Next, head to Lake Eacham, a serene crater lake formed by ancient volcanic activity. Continuing on, visit the famous ‘Curtain Fig Tree,’ an enormous and fascinating natural wonder, with its unique roots draping down like a curtain. Finally, arrive in Cairns, one of Australia’s most vibrant and dynamic tropical cities. 

Get ready for one of Australia’s most unforgettable experiences: a day at the Great Barrier Reef! Today, you'll cruise to this world-famous natural wonder, spending the day snorkeling through vibrant coral gardens and encountering incredible marine life. Enjoy a delicious lunch on board, and take in the underwater world from a glass-bottom boat. For those looking to dive deeper, there’s the option to try an introductory scuba dive, or, if you’re certified, you can join a dive master for a more in-depth exploration of the reef (additional costs apply). As you explore, soak up fascinating conservation insights onboard a state-of-the-art vessel, enhancing your appreciation of this remarkable ecosystem. It’s a bucket-list adventure, so keep your camera close! After an exhilarating day on the reef, gather together for a memorable farewell dinner.

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to your fellow travelers as your tour concludes at the Flynn Hotel on Day 14. With no scheduled activities for the day, you’re free to depart at your leisure and continue your journey whenever you're ready!