14 Day Sydney to Cairns Unleashed

Itinerary: day by day

Day 1 – Sydney to Crescent Head

PICK UP LOCATION: Sydney Central YHA, 06:30am

Wave the city goodbye and cross the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge in search of sun, surf and sand. We travel to our beachside surf camp at Crescent Head — one of the most stunning places on the Australian coastline. Try out the Aussie surf life by hitting the water for your first lesson. You can spend the day practicing your wave riding, relaxing at the nearby Tea Tree Lakes or having a go at some beach volleyball. Tonight you can enjoy some live music or head back down to the beach to enjoy a blazing beach fire. (D)

Day 2 – Crescent Head to Byron Bay

Wake up early and grab some breakfast before hitting the waves for some more surfing fun. After a BBQ lunch it’s time to wave goodbye to our remote paradise and get back on the road. We pass through Coffs Harbour, with its giant banana, and the picturesque beach town of Ballina, before reaching our destination, Byron Bay — renowned for its surf beaches, rainforests and eclectic lifestyle. Why not start the evening with a pub meal at The Rails (own expense), a popular pub with the locals. (BL)

Day 3 – Byron Bay

You have a free day to explore and enjoy the wonderful Byron Bay. From lush hinterland to world renowned surf beaches, Byron is truly a natural wonder. It’s impossible to do too much or too little in this town, but whatever you choose you’re guaranteed to fall in love with the lifestyle. You can try skydiving, scuba diving at Julian Rocks, sea kayaking, extra surf lessons, or simply chill out on the sand and relax (all activities at own expense). If you want to take a break from activities on the beach you can spend the day exploring the unique shops and art galleries, or making friends with the colourful locals. (B)

Day 4 – Byron Bay to Gold Coast

Today we make the short journey over the Tweed River, into Queensland and the Gold Coast. Cruise along the coast and get a feel for one of Australia’s most popular holiday spots. Expect warm beaches and friendly locals. Once we arrive, explore the area at your own leisure – perhaps visit the nearby theme parks for some excitement, indulge in a spot of shopping, or climb the Skypoint Observation Deck (activities at own expense). Tonight we regroup for a frame or two of bowling and some dinner, before checking out the famous Gold Coast nightlife. (B)

Day 5 – Gold Coast to Noosa

An hour’s drive north of the Gold Coast is the city of Brisbane. We board the boutique MV Neptune for a cruise along the river and check out the incredible city skyline. Later we get back on to the Bruce Highway, passing the Glasshouse Mountain range and arriving at Noosa, a popular resort town on the Sunshine Coast. Enjoy the endless beaches of the area, hit the shops or take a walk through Daintree National Park. Tonight we’ll share a drink or two with the friendly locals. (B)

Day 6 – Noosa and Fraser Island

Today we’ll take a guided tour around the world’s largest sand island, stunning Fraser Island! Join the local guides on a 4WD trip that drinks in the awesome beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. We’ll traverse the stunning Seventy Five Mile Beach, before entering the tropical part of the island for a guided rainforest walk. After a delicious Aussie BBQ on the banks of Lake McKenzie, take to the waters for a cooling swim. There’s still time to stop off at Central Station, as well as witnessing the multi-coloured sands of Rainbow Beach before returning to Noosa. (BL)

Day 7 – Noosa to Kroombit Park

Head inland from the beach to the bush, for a taste of country Australia! Our stop is a visit to the Sandilands family on their 10,000 acre cattle station. Breathe in the fresh air and get a feel for the wide open space. Spot some of the local kangaroos and enjoy this peaceful taste of the Australian bush — a chance relax and unwind. This afternoon get ready for the world-famous ‘Goat Rodeo’, before we settle in for dinner around the campfire. Don’t forget to try your skills on the Mechanical Bull! Tonight we sleep in bush cabins made from recycled timber at Kroombit Cattle Station. (BD)

Day 8 – Kroombit to Emu Park

This morning, have a go at goat mustering, horse riding, quad biking or trap shooting, (all activities at own expense) before jumping on the bus and heading up to Rockhampton (or ‘Rocky’ to its mates). It’s not far from here to our overnight stop at the relaxed Emu Park. You won’t need any help chilling out in a place like this! Go for a swim in the pool, take to the beach, or just enjoy the warm sunshine. Tonight, make the most of the local hospitality and tuck into a reef and beef dinner right by the ocean! (BLD)

Day 9 – Emu Park to Whitsundays (Sailing)

Today get ready to chase the sun along the shimmering ocean. We arrive at Airlie Beach, a picturesque resort town and gateway to the Whitsunday Islands — heaven on earth. Step aboard our yacht and set sail for this 74 tropical island paradise. Learn the basics of sailing and enjoy swimming or snorkelling the reef. Tonight you'll gaze upon the stars from the deck and enjoy the sense of relaxation that comes with spending the night sailing through tropical waters. (BD)

Day 10 – Whitsundays (Whitehaven Beach)

Wake up in the shelter of a nearby cove and get ready for a day of sailing! We'll take in beautiful beaches, snorkel through colourful reefs and spot some incredible marine wildlife. Weather permitting we'll visit Whitehaven Beach (the whitest sand you've ever seen) and Blue Pearl Bay. Then we plot a course for nearby South Molle Island, our home for the next two nights. (BLD)

Day 11 – Whitsundays (South Molle Island)

Back on dry land, explore the idyllic surrounds of South Molle Island. You can feed the Rainbow Lorikeets, go snorkelling or swimming or even a quick 9 holes of golf if you feel the urge (own expense). There's plenty of bushwalking tracks available and with 360 degree scenic views of the Whitsundays and 17 private beaches you’ll be spoilt for choice. A walk up Spion Kop, voted as one of the best island bushwalks in Queensland, is a must.  Either way, the pace is relaxed and the choice is all yours. (BD)

Day 12 – Whitsundays to Cairns

Set sail early today and head back to the mainland and Airlie Beach. From here, head north and further up towards Far North Queensland and pass through charming Townsville — it's not far to the adventurous city of Cairns. The destination for many a traveller, it's somewhat of a party town, which you'll find out about tonight. (B)

Day 13 – Cairns to Great Barrier Reef (Passions of Paradise)

Today is going to be truly unforgettable! We’re headed for the Great Barrier Reef. Set sail for the outer reef onboard our catamaran and stop at two unique locations, Michaelmas Cay and Paradise Reef. All snorkeling equipment is included and if you’re keen to try some diving (own expense) there is a certified diving instructor on board as well. Michaelmas Cay is a national park and certified bird sanctuary whilst Paradise Reef is an exclusive mooring just for us. Take in the incredible wildlife and enjoy a tasty buffet lunch prepared by your onboard chefs. (BL)

Day 14 – Cairns

We wrap up our journey with a free day in Cairns to take in some awesome optional activities. Go wild and try out some white water rafting on Tully River, or visit the World Heritage listed Daintree region. You can also try horse riding, quad biking, bungy jumping and even hot air ballooning (all activities at own expense). Alternatively you can use your first day in Cairns to relax and plan your next adventure. (B)