14 Day Cairns to Sydney Unleashed

Itinerary: day by day

Day 1 – Cairns

PICK UP LOCATION: Hides Hotel (87 Lake St), 06:30am

Travel one of Australia’s most scenic coastal drives to the Daintree region and meet the traditional custodians of the region, the Kubirri brothers of the Kuku Yalanji tribe. They’ll show us traditional spear fishing and teach about their culture.

Day 2 – Cairns

Where the rainforest meets the reef, that’s where you’ll find Cairns. Take advantage of these two spectacular natural landscapes with a day free for optional activities! Why not spend the day diving or snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, a highlight of any visit to tropical North Queensland. (B)

Day 3 – Cairns to The Whitsundays

We have arrived in Paradise. Sail across azure waters, discovering remote beaches and colourful coral reefs. Soak up the sun, swim in the tropical ocean or take a turn at the helm. (BD)

Day 4 – The Whitsundays (South Molle Island)

Today get ready to chase the sun over the shimmering ocean. 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 – take a turn on the helm if you're up for it! (BLD)

Day 5 – The Whitsundays (South Molle Island)

Back on dry land, explore the idyllic surrounds of South Molle: feed the Rainbow Lorikeets, go snorkelling or swimming. There are plenty of bushwalking tracks available, with scenic views of the Whitsundays and 17 (count 'em) private beaches. A walk up “Spion Kop” is a must. (B, D)

Day 6 – The Whitsundays to Emu Park

After a morning of sailing we’re back to dry land at Emu Park. (BD)

Day 7 – Emu Park to Kroombit Park, via Rockhampton

Later get ready for the world-famous “Goat Rodeo”, before we settle in ‘round the campfire for a tale or three. Don’t forget to try your skills on the Mechanical Bull, either!. (BLD)

Day 8 – Kroombit Park to Noosa

Leaving the farm behind, we journey back to the coast to Noosa, a popular resort town on the Sunshine Coast! Enjoy the endless beaches of the area, or just mosey around town. Tonight we’ll share a drink or two with the friendly locals. (B)

Day 9 – Fraser Island

Today we visit the world’s largest sand island, and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, Fraser Island! We’ll take a 4-wheel drive tour and guided rainforest walk followed by an Aussie Barbecue on the banks of stunning Lake McKenzie. (BL)

Day 10 – Noosa to Gold Coast

Travelling along the Bruce Highway, we drive past the Glasshouse Mountain range en route to Noosa, a popular resort town on the Sunshine Coast. There’s an option to hop off at Australia Zoo on the way. Arrive in Brisbane, capital of Queensland, for a cruise along its famous river. (BD)

Day 11 – Gold Coast to Byron Bay

Today we make the short trip over the border to Bryon Bay, the easternmost point on the mainland. World renowned for its superb beaches and eclectic lifestyle, it’s a resort town so good some visitors have never left! (BL)

Day 12 – Byron Bay

A full day in Byron leaves you with a veritable cavalcade of options: try out sea kayaking, diving, or skydiving perhaps? Maybe you’d prefer to experience the arts and crafts of the local area, or take a walk to Cape Byron. Then again, the beach could be calling your name. (B)

Day 13 – Byron Bay to Crescent Head

Take in the shimmering Pacific Ocean with a surfing lesson, or just kick back and enjoy the natural scenery. (BD)

Day 14 – Crescent Head to Sydney

We hit the beach early for a surf lesson before heading down the coast. We’ll make a quick stopover in Kempsey (home of the “Akubra” hat), before arriving in Sydney where we say our goodbyes. (B)