Australia’s East Coast Islands & Rainforest
Beach bliss and lush landscapes
Head "down under" for this once-in-a-lifetime journey through Australia! Beginning in Sydney and ending in Cairns, you'll visit the Blue Mountains, the Great Barrier Reef, Noosa, the Gold Coast, and much more. Encounter local wildlife, enjoy scenic cruises, relax on postcard-worthy beaches, and immerse yourself in the culture of local villages. With tours, transportation, and several meals included, this trip is the adventure you've been waiting for.
You can find safety advice and alerts for Australia travel here.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Sydney (SYD), out of Cairns (CNS)
- All airport transfers
- Accommodation in hotels listed, or similar:
- 3 nights in Sydney at the Rydges Sydney Central Hotel or Hyatt Regency Harbour
- 1 night in Port Macquarie at the Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges Hotel
- 2 nights in Gold Coast at the Novotel Surfers Paradise Hotel
- 2 nights in Noosa at the Hotel Sebel Noosa
- 1 night in Hervey Bay at the Mantra Hervey Bay Hotel
- 1 night in Rockhampton at the Quality Regent Hotel
- 2 nights in Hamilton Island at the Reef View Hotel
- 1 night in Mission Beach at the Castaways Resort & Spa
- 2 nights in Cairns at the Hilton Hotel Cairns
- Guided sightseeing as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Sightseeing tour of Sydney with harbour cruise
- Visit to the Blue Mountains & Sydney Zoo
- Visit to Hunter Valley Vineyard with wine tasting
- Gold Coast sightseeing
- Brisbane panoramic tour & visit to the Australia Zoo
- Fraser Island tour
- Ohana Exotic Fruit Orchard tour
- Langmorn Station tour
- Visit to the Kuranda Rainforest with Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
- Catamaran cruise to the Great Barrier Reef with snorkeling
- Breakfast daily, 4 lunches, and 5 dinners
- Services of an experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
- Travel by luxury coach
Great Ways to Explore
-
Snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef during your stay in Cairns!
- Feel the wind in your hair as you cruise through Sydney Harbour.
-
Take a spectacular walk in Noosa National Park!
-
Be on the lookout for humpback whales as you drive to the Gold Coast.
-
Enjoy an exclusive wine tasting in Hunter Valley, one of Australia's major wine regions.
This is an escorted tour. It’s perfect if you prefer not to do your own driving and want to see as many sights as you can during your vacation.
Ready, set, adventure! Get ready for the Australian vacation you've always dreamed about. Start off in Sydney, where you'll enjoy a sightseeing tour, as well as a Sydney Harbour lunch cruise! Take photos in-front of the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach, and more. From Sydney, you'll embark on an escorted tour to Australia's amazing rainforests and sparkling coasts!
Join a knowledgeable guide and fellow travelers on an incredible journey north from New South Wales to Queensland! Kick off in the seaside town of Port Macquarie, then continue onto the famous Gold Coast. Experience breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales! After a stops in Brisbane and at the Australia Zoo, continue to the beachside resort town of Noosa. Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Main Beach or discover the natural beauty of Noosa National Park. Visit UNESCO-recognized Fraser Island, the world's largest sand island, before travelling to Hervey Bay.
Enjoy an included visit to an exotic fruit orchard, then cross the Tropic of Capricorn into Rockhampton! Treat yourself to a delicious steakhouse dinner in this city known for its beef production. Next, you'll hop on a ferry to Hamilton Island, one of the 74 tropical islands that make up the Whitsunday group in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef! Discover a kaleidoscope of coral, colorful marine life, and picture-perfect beaches. You may even spot koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and kookaburras! Your paradise beach vacation continues along the Coral Sea in Mission Beach, and then in Cairns. Explore lush rainforests in the Atherton Tablelands and soak up native cultural in Kuranda rainforest village. During your stay in Cairns, you'll enjoy a thrilling catamaran cruise through the Great Barrier Reef, during which you'll be able to snorkel and view the spectacular coral from the boat's underwater observatory!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Sydney (SYD), out of Cairns (CNS)
- All airport transfers
- Accommodation in hotels listed, or similar:
- 3 nights in Sydney at the Rydges Sydney Central Hotel or Hyatt Regency Harbour
- 1 night in Port Macquarie at the Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges Hotel
- 2 nights in Gold Coast at the Novotel Surfers Paradise Hotel
- 2 nights in Noosa at the Hotel Sebel Noosa
- 1 night in Hervey Bay at the Mantra Hervey Bay Hotel
- 1 night in Rockhampton at the Quality Regent Hotel
- 2 nights in Hamilton Island at the Reef View Hotel
- 1 night in Mission Beach at the Castaways Resort & Spa
- 2 nights in Cairns at the Hilton Hotel Cairns
- Guided sightseeing as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Sightseeing tour of Sydney with harbour cruise
- Visit to the Blue Mountains & Sydney Zoo
- Visit to Hunter Valley Vineyard with wine tasting
- Gold Coast sightseeing
- Brisbane panoramic tour & visit to the Australia Zoo
- Fraser Island tour
- Ohana Exotic Fruit Orchard tour
- Langmorn Station tour
- Visit to the Kuranda Rainforest with Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
- Catamaran cruise to the Great Barrier Reef with snorkeling
- Breakfast daily, 4 lunches, and 5 dinners
- Services of an experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
- Travel by luxury coach
-
Snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef during your stay in Cairns!
- Feel the wind in your hair as you cruise through Sydney Harbour.
-
Take a spectacular walk in Noosa National Park!
-
Be on the lookout for humpback whales as you drive to the Gold Coast.
-
Enjoy an exclusive wine tasting in Hunter Valley, one of Australia's major wine regions.
This is an escorted tour. It’s perfect if you prefer not to do your own driving and want to see as many sights as you can during your vacation.
Ready, set, adventure! Get ready for the Australian vacation you've always dreamed about. Start off in Sydney, where you'll enjoy a sightseeing tour, as well as a Sydney Harbour lunch cruise! Take photos in-front of the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach, and more. From Sydney, you'll embark on an escorted tour to Australia's amazing rainforests and sparkling coasts!
Join a knowledgeable guide and fellow travelers on an incredible journey north from New South Wales to Queensland! Kick off in the seaside town of Port Macquarie, then continue onto the famous Gold Coast. Experience breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales! After a stops in Brisbane and at the Australia Zoo, continue to the beachside resort town of Noosa. Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Main Beach or discover the natural beauty of Noosa National Park. Visit UNESCO-recognized Fraser Island, the world's largest sand island, before travelling to Hervey Bay.
Enjoy an included visit to an exotic fruit orchard, then cross the Tropic of Capricorn into Rockhampton! Treat yourself to a delicious steakhouse dinner in this city known for its beef production. Next, you'll hop on a ferry to Hamilton Island, one of the 74 tropical islands that make up the Whitsunday group in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef! Discover a kaleidoscope of coral, colorful marine life, and picture-perfect beaches. You may even spot koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and kookaburras! Your paradise beach vacation continues along the Coral Sea in Mission Beach, and then in Cairns. Explore lush rainforests in the Atherton Tablelands and soak up native cultural in Kuranda rainforest village. During your stay in Cairns, you'll enjoy a thrilling catamaran cruise through the Great Barrier Reef, during which you'll be able to snorkel and view the spectacular coral from the boat's underwater observatory!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Day 1. Welcome to Sydney!
Touch down in stunning Sydney! Upon arrival, enjoy a comfortable transfer to your first hotel. Once you get settled, take a stroll and get to know the city! The rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure.
Transfer to Sydney hotel
Step into luxurious elegance at this stylish hotel on the edge of the Sydney Central Business District. Check-in with the 24-hour reception team, then head up to your spacious room. Open the door to crisp air conditioning, free WiFi, plush bedding, flat-screen TV, and extensive bath amenities.
Once you're all settled in, unpack your swimsuit and take a dip in the sparkling swimming pool! Keep up your workout routine in the fitness center, then steam your stresses away in the sauna. When you work up an appetite, treat yourself to a delicious meal at the onsite restaurant and bar!
Hyatt Regency Harbour overlooks Darling Harbour in Sydney's CBD. It is the largest hotel in Sydney, with almost 900 rooms and a variety of dining options and meeting spaces. Guests can enjoy air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, television, coffee/tea making facilities, and more. Sailmaker offers dishes featuring fresh produce and local seafood. Zephyr is the hotel's rooftop bar offering sensational views of Sydney and Darling Harbour. The hotel also has a Lobby Lounge where you can start the day with a morning coffee or end the day with a cozy cocktail. With Sydney's finest attractions at your fingertips, you'll appreciate the comfort and convenience of Hyatt Regency Harbour.
Day 2. Sydney
Recharge with a delicious breakfast, then embark on a Sydney sightseeing tour! First, you'll cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge for a stop at Milsons Point - talk about stunning city views! Snap some great photos, then stop at North Head lookout for a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean. Relax with some free time at Manly Beach and take a peaceful stroll along The Corso. Then, you'll head back to the city only to board your Sydney Harbour lunch cruise!
IN the afternoon, you'll drive through the city to Mrs. Macquarie's Chair. Get your camera ready for up-close views of the famous Opera House, then visit the one and only Bondi Beach. Wander along the shoreline and get a taste of surfer life!
After an unforgettable day, treat yourself to a delicious dinner in the city.
Day 3. Sydney
Grab your camera and get ready for an unforgettable day in the UNESCO World Heritage-Listed blue Mountains National Park! View the famous Three Sisters from a picture-perfect vantage point before arriving at Scenic World. There, you'll have the opportunity to ride the Scenic Railway, Cableway, or Skyway - all incredible ways to the the steep valleys and canyons!
After a thrilling morning, enjoy a stop in picturesque Leura, where you'll enjoy lunch in a local cafe. Take some time to explore this local village, filled with quaint shops and pretty gardens.
The fun's not over yet! On your return drive to Sydney, you'll enjoy an afternoon encounter at Featherdale Wildlife Park. Get up-close and personal with koalas, kangaroos, and other native animals!
Day 4. Sydney - Port Macquarie
Say "see ya" to Sydney and depart on your escorted tour to Australia's stunning islands and lush rainforests! Your first stop will be a beautiful vineyard in Hunter Valley, one of Australia's renowned wine regions. Enjoy an exclusive wine tasting and get to know your travel companions over lunch!
After a delightful start to your tour, you'll continue north to the seaside town of Port Macquarie, known for its extensive beaches and sparkling waterways. Check-in to your hotel, then spend the evening getting to know the area!
Check-in - Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges
Nestled on stunning Pelican Bay, this luxurious hotel overlooks the Hastings River and Marina, as well as lush green gardens. Check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, then head up to your spacious room. Open the door and find free WiFi, plush bedding, crisp air conditioning, flat-screen TV, and much more.
Once you're all settled in, let the fun begin! Find yourself lounging on the waterfront pavilion, take a dip in the sparkling swimming pool, or take a ride on a paddle board. Offering tons of outdoor activities, Sails Port Macquarie is the perfect place to relax and have fun. When you work up an appetite, be sure to treat yourself to a delicious meal at the new Boathouse Bar & Restaurant! Too comfy to leave your room? Don't worry - there's always room service.
Day 5. Port Macquarie - Gold Coast
This morning, feast your eyes on spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean from Cape Byron, the eaternmost point in Australia! Don't be surprised if you spot migrating whales close to shore!
This afternoon, enjoy a scenic coastal drive to the legendary vacation spot of the Gold Coast. Settle in for your two-night stay, then explore this beachy paradise!
Check-in - Novotel Surfers Paradise
Nestled in the heart of Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast, this luxurious hotel is surrounded by picturesque beaches and vibrant nightlife. After checking in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, head up to your spacious room. Open the door and find crisp air conditioning, floor-to-ceiling windows, satellite TV, and more. Step out on your balcony and take in breathtaking views of the ocean or the city!
Once you're all settled in, challenge someone to a tennis match on the full-size court, or work all your stresses away in the fitness center! Why not take a dip in the sparkling pool? Relax in the hot tub, or treat yourself to a tranquil massage. When you work up an appetite, consider a meal at the delicious onsite restaurant!
Day 6. Gold Coast
Spend today immersing yourself in the beauty of the Gold Coast. Choose one amazing activity from a selection of included sightseeing experiences, like an exciting visit to the Gold Coast Hinterland, a boat trip to try your hand at crab fishing, and more!
Day 7. Gold Coast - Noosa
This morning, you'll head north to Noosa. Along the way, enjoy a stop in Brisbane for a quick city tour! Then, continue to the famous Australia Zoo and take a sneak peek into the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital.
After a fun trip, check-in to your Noosa hotel and indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant with your travel companions.
Check-in - The Sebel Noosa
Just steps from Noosa Beach, this beautiful hotel features luxurious apartments, stunning views, and a plethora of amenities. After checking in with the 24-hour reception team, find your apartment and settle in. Enjoy flat-screen TV, WiFi, comfortable bedding, and much more!
Located right off vibrant Hastings Street, The Sebel Noosa is surrounded by shops and restaurants, and is within easy walking distance of Noosa National Park. You, however, don't have to leave the hotel to have fun! Make a splash in the sparkling swimming pool, work all your stresses away in the fitness center, and find peace in the steamy hot tub.
Day 8. Noosa
Wake up in paradise! Today, discover Noosa on your own. Swim through the crystal-clear waters of Main Beach, or take a picture-perfect walk in Noosa National Park. If you're in the mood for adventure, you may want to inquire about a boat ride through the Noosa Everglades!
This evening, stroll along Hastings Street and treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of its many charming restaurants.
Day 9. Noosa - Hervey Bay
Today, explore the wonder of Fraser Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's largest sand island! Take in its spectacular environment of striking blue freshwater, crystalline creeks, vast dunes, and lush rainforests.
Enjoy a delicious lunch before heading to Hervey Bay, where in the springtime, approximately 7,000 humpback whales and their new calves rest and play in the calm, safe waters before they swim back to Antarctica. Check-in to your Hervey Bay accommodation and spend your evening at leisure.
Check-in - Mantra Hervey Bay
Nestled on the waterfront overlooking the Urangan Marina, Mantra Hervey Bay offers laid-back luxury and comfortable rooms. Don't worry about not having a good view - all rooms have balconies with views towards the beach! In your room, you'll find cable TV, crisp air conditioning, WiFi access, and more.
Once you're all settled in your room, explore this beautiful property! Perhaps you want to grill up a picnic using the BBQ facilities, then make a splash in the sparkling outdoor pool! Work all your stresses away in the gym, then steam up in the sauna. Whether you're hanging out on your balcony or lounging poolside, keep an eye out for humpback whales swimming about!
Day 10. Hervey Bay - Rockhampton
Rise and shine! Your day begins with a special visit to the Ohana Exotic Fruit Orchard. After a truly sweet morning, you'll travel to Landmorn Station for a guided tour of the 11,000-hectare cattle property, as well as a delightful afternoon tea session.
Later in the day, cross over the Tropic of Capricorn and arrive in Rockhampton. Settle in, then take a stroll along historic Quay Street and consider an unforgettable dinner at one of the city's famous steakhouses!
Check-in - Quality Hotel Regent Rockhampton
Located in the heart of Rockhampton's city center, his heritage-listed building boasts luxurious comfort in an elegant atmosphere. Just steps from a range of shopping and dining options, Regent Hotel Rockhampton offers free WiFi, a sparkling outdoor pool, and a classy cocktail lounge. Open the door to your spacious room and find flat-screen TV, contemporary decor, a mini-bar, plush bedding, and much more!
Day 11. Rockhampton - Hamilton Island
Travel up north to Sarina today, where you'll enjoy a guided tour of the town's unique miniature sugar mill and distillery. Then, arrive at Airlie Beach and catch the ferry to Hamilton Island, one of 74 tropical islands that make up the Whisunday group in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
Boasting pristine beaches, colorful marine life, and a kaleidoscope of coral, Hamilton Island is home to large populations of koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and kookaburras! Settle into your Hamilton Island accommodation and take in your postcard-worthy surroundings.
Check-in - Reef View Hotel
Located right across the street from Catseye Beach, Reef View Hotel offers luxurious comfort, modern amenities, and breathtaking sea views. Check-in with the 24-hour reception team, then head up to your spacious room. Open the door to free WiFi, crisp air conditioning, flat-screen TV, and much more. You'll even have your own balcony, where you can start every morning with a scenic cup of coffee.
Once you're all settled in, explore the hotel's facilities! Make a splash in the sparkling outdoor pool, steam your stresses away in the sauna, or keep up with your workout routine in the fitness center. Interested in snorkeling or windsurfing? Inquire at the front desk! This hotel will position you up-close and personal with the renowned Great Barrier Reef.
Day 12. Hamilton Island
Wake up smiling - you're on Hamilton Island! Today is yours to indulge in whatever your heart desires. Consider some optional experiences, like a cruise to Whitehaven Beach or a scenic flight over the iconic Heart Reef. Looking to stay nearby? You may want to visit the island's wildlife park, read a book by the pool, or relax on the beach!
Tonight, go ahead and treat yourself to an oceanfront dinner. Feast on delicious cuisine while you feast your eyes on an amazing sunset.
Day 13. Hamilton Island - Mission Beach
This morning, take the ferry back to the mainland and venture to the seaside town of Mission Beach. Nestled between the rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, Mission Beach offers superb views and immersive nature experiences.
Settle into your Mission Beach accommodation, then enjoy a relaxing night by the Coral Sea.
Check-in - Castaways Resort & Spa
Perfectly located at the edge of the Great Barrier Reef, Castaways Resort & Spa offers luxurious accommodations and breathtaking scenery. This beautiful beachfront property features both rooms and apartments with balconies and ocean views. Surrounded by lush rainforests and white sand beaches, Castaways Resort & Spa is a dream come true.
Open the door to your spacious room and find plush bedding, free WiFi, flat-screen TV, and much more. Unpack your swimsuit and take a dip in the sparkling swimming pool, pamper yourself at the onsite spa, or work all your stresses away in the fitness center. When you work up an appetite, treat yourself to a delicious meal at the onsite Bibesia Cocktail Bar & Restaurant.
Day 14. Mission Beach - Cairns
Prepare for a journey to the breathtaking Atherton Tablelands, filled with lush rainforests, rushing waterfalls, and sparkling lakes! Visit Millaa Millaa Falls, a 500-year-old Curtain Fig Tree, and more! Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the magnificent Ulysses butterfly, a native to the area. Spend some free time in Kuranda, the "village in the rainforest," before traveling on via the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway! Take in awe-inspiring views of the rainforest and the coral sea.
After an exciting day, relax at your luxurious Cairns hotel.
Check-in - Hilton Hotel Cairns
Hilton Hotel Cairns is located on the water, just minutes from the Cairns Convention Center, Cairns Airport, and more! Guests can easily explore the Daintree Rainforest or Great Barrier Reef from this location. Guests can enjoy air-conditioned rooms with complimentary toiletries and premium television. Choose to dine at Mondo on the Waterfront with beautiful views of Trinity Inlet and an international menu, or at Simply Italian for fantastic Italian dishes. Unwind with a trip to the lagoon-style pool or with a luxurious treatment at the on-site spa. Sip a cocktail at Gin Social Bar while you watch the sunset, and then do it all again tomorrow!
Day 15. Cairns
It may be your last full day in Australia, but there's still tons of fun to be had! Board a high-speed catamaran and cruise out to the iconic Great Barrier Reef! Did you know that it's the only living organism that can be seen from the moon!?
In the Great Barrier Reef, you'll have the opportunity to snorkel and view the colorful coral and tropical fish from an underwater observatory! Gaze out at the beautiful surroundings as you enjoy a tropical buffet lunch on board.
Back on land, indulge in a memorable farewell dinner with your travel director and newfound friends. Replay warm memories and reminisce about your favorite moments over a good meal.
Day 16. Depart Australia
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage and enjoy a convenient transfer to the airport. Find your departure gate, then spend your flight home dreaming about your next adventure!
Transfer to Cairns Airport
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
Advertised vacation package prices are per person based on two people traveling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised package rates are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, were available via the Great Value Vacations website and may not represent current prices.
Vacation packages include round-trip economy class airfare on valid international carriers as noted in specific package inclusions and as indicated on booking engine calendar, which may also include code share flight agreements between carriers as indicated during the booking process. Carriers may vary based on city of origin.
Air fares are based on a 14-day advance purchase and include round-trip economy class airfare, including carrier and government-imposed taxes and fees, and the September 11th Security Fee of $5.60 per enplanement originating at a U.S. airport. Fluctuations in exchange rates may affect some taxes or fees. Other departure dates and origins are available at slightly higher rates. Fares apply to North American originating passengers only, and are not eligible for accrual of frequent flyer points/mileage. Seats are limited and fares may not be available on all flights. Child/infant discounts are not available, and stopovers are not permitted. Advance seat selection is controlled by the carrier(s), and may not be available on all flights. Baggage fees may apply; please check with carrier for specific policies.
Vacation packages are subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may not be available on every date or on all flights, and may be restricted to certain hotel room and car categories. Higher rates may also be available throughout travel period. Full payment is required at the time of reservation. Rates cannot be combined with any other discount/promotion, and are valid for new bookings only. Offers may be changed or withdrawn at any time without notice. Website contains special pricing that is exclusively for Internet sale only. Bookings made through our call center may incur a concierge fee of up to $25 per person.
Escorted vacation packages are per person based on two travelers (unless otherwise specified), and typically include hotel accommodations; transportation with professional driver/guide; sightseeing as listed, some meals, local taxes, hotel service charges and porterage of one (1) suitcase per person, due to limited capacity on motor coaches. Space is limited and prices may be restricted to certain travel dates, length of stay or room type. Driver and guide gratuities are not included, and are at the discretion of the traveler. Terms and conditions apply. Minimum child ages and handicapped traveler restrictions may apply on escorted tours; please call for details.
Promo Code Offer Details: All promotions are subject to availability, valid for new bookings only, cannot be combined with any other promotion, discount, voucher or any other offers, and are not redeemable for cash. Offers are available for phone bookings via our reservation agents as well as online. This promo code can be input online on the payment screen. The call center is open Monday through Friday 9AM – 9PM ET, Saturdays 10AM – 6PM ET. Discounts will apply only once per passenger and are not valid for airfare only, or any other products or services. If a flight reservation is changed or cancelled, the original fare basis rules apply (plus any increase in fare). Additional restrictions may apply.
Cancellations/Changes: Rates are non-refundable. Substantial restrictions apply for cancellation/change, and depend upon the package type. Trip protection is recommended.
Call 1-800-896-4600 or go to https://www.greatvaluevacations.com/travel/terms-and-conditions for full details on change/cancellation policy.