Ultimate 2 Week East Coast Australia Itinerary: A Local’s Guide

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Australia is a massive country, with an endless supply of unique natural locations and culturally fascinating places to visit. Many people know Australia because of its unique wildlife, especially the marsupials such as koalas and kangaroos, or because of world-class surfing and beach life.

For me, Australia’s pull is strong because of its long bio-cultural history, generally laid-back atmosphere, and endless adventure opportunities. If you ask any Aussie, they’ll tell you: the East Coast of Australia is one part of the country where all this abounds.

What makes this part of Australia truly special is that it is made up largely of lush coastal forests that are often bordered on one side by the Pacific Ocean, and on the other, by various mountain ranges. This makes quite a contrast to the drier, inland parts of the country.

An East Coast Australia itinerary could include visiting its stunning beaches, snorkeling and diving in tropical waters, enjoying nature-bound adventures in tropical and temperate rainforests, and visiting interesting cities and towns. This part of Australia is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the whole world, which means that traveling here is comfortable and safe, with great tourism infrastructure.

In this article I’ll share my personal recommendation for a two-week East Coast Australia itinerary. Ideally, you’d have a few weeks more than that for exploring the East Coast, but two weeks will give you a great introduction to the region. T

he way you can experience comfortable travel and adventure here, topped with friendly, laid-back people and balmy temperatures, makes the East Coast one of the best places to travel in the whole world.

When to visit the East Coast of Australia

In the North of the East Coast, around Cairns region, the summers (November-February) can get pretty hot, while the winters in the south of the East Coast can get a bit chilly. All in all, though, a big part of the East Coast has a temperate climate, and even winters are generally mild and sunny. You might wish to avoid the months from December to February if you don’t like crowds. In particular, when Christmas season coincides with Australia’s summer holiday season.

Apart from the weather, I recommend considering a few other factors as well. If you’re greatly into swimming and surfing, stinger nets are installed at many beaches during the Australian summer months, to protect beach goers against increased jellyfish activity. Meanwhile, the conditions for whale watching are best between June and November. In some cities, such as Newcastle, you can literally spot whales right off shore during June and July.

Getting there and getting around

Flying to Australia can, naturally, take a good while, if you’re flying from for example Europe or the US. Because of the country’s size, you might wish to take some in-country flights, as well, and, if you book far in advance, these can be quite cheap.

However, when traveling the East Coast, I’d always recommend renting a car so you can make as many stops along the way you wish, and take your time exploring places. There’s no greater joy than finding a small beach or little country pub.

If driving isn’t your thing, you can also use long-distance buses and trains connect most towns. I especially like the trains on the East Coast; they are really comfortable, and it’s also a fantastic way to see the landscapes while having a relaxing travel experience.

Ultimate 2 weeks East Coast Australia Itinerary

Days 1-2: Cairns

I suggest starting your East Coast journey in Cairns. This city in Far North Queensland is a wonderful place to visit in itself. I find Cairns to have a laid-back, tropical atmosphere, and there are lots of fun, characterful bars, restaurants, and hostels in the city. You can also take a gorgeous trip from Cairns to a nearby Kuranda village, by a cable way and a scenic train. I love this trip for the views over Cairns and the Coral sea, as well as enjoy the ancient jungle surrounding Cairns.

Furthermore, Cairns is the best base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef. Ecologically sustainable tour operators can take you diving or snorkeling on the miraculously beautiful reef. Otherwise, if you have the inclination for more forest adventures, I’d highly recommend visiting Daintree National Park, to the north of Cairns. This region consists of the oldest rainforests of the world, and is home to unique plants and wildlife, such as ancient cycads and ferns or the rare cassowary.

Daintree also has stunning, pristine beaches that I find are some of the most beautiful in the world. Without question, my favorite is at Cape Tribulation.

Cairns is also an excellent base for day trips around Far North Queensland. For more tips, don’t miss our guide to the best day trips from Cairns.

Days 3-4: Towards the Whitsundays

Travel down to Airlie Beach

I suggest leaving early and driving down towards Airlie Beach on your third day. Along the way, there are some lovely stops. If you’re after the best pictures of Australian wildlife, head to Townsville’s Billabong Sanctuary which offers interactive experiences with Australian wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, or even crocodiles. You’ll also find a lovely esplanade at Townsville with cafés and restaurants.

If you have a few extra days up your sleeve, consider spending a day on Magnetic Island (just off the coast off Townsville).

Explore the Whitsundays: a must on any East Coast Australia itinerary

From Airlie Beach, you can easily take a ferry over to the Whitsundays. This is a place to do some serious island hopping. The landscape is beyond stunning, with white sands, turquoise waters, and green, tropical tree lines.

Whitehaven is easily the most popular of Australia’s island destinations. The white sand here apparently consists of silica, which makes it exceptionally soft and cool to the feet. You can also access the Great Barrier Reef from the Whitsunday islands.

Day 5: Rockhampton

The next wonderful destination during an East Coast Australia itinerary is Rockhampton, about 5-6 hours south from Airlie Beach. Along the way, you can make stops to more beautiful beaches, and you’ll also drive past several state forests and national parks. I’d suggest taking a little drive in to visit Eungella National Park and the surrounds. There are amazing swimming spots here, and the possibility of seeing platypuses.

Rockhampton has some beautiful architecture and tree-lined streets. I like walking around and viewing the historic buildings, especially along Quay street. The city also has amazing restaurants and bars, often with live music; it’s really a fun city to stay over at. If you arrive early, you could make a trip to one of the nearby destinations. Capricorn Caves is one of the most unique places to visit in this region. Or, if you head to Mount Archer, you can walk along the elevated boardwalk from where you can enjoy a view over the city and the surrounding landscapes.

If you’re already keen to extend your trip, take a few days offshore at neighboring Great Keppel Island. We’ve prepared the ultimate guide for spending 3 days on this off-the-beaten-track tropical island.

Day 6: Hervey Bay and K’gari

From Rockhampton, you’d travel further south towards Hervey Bay. If you leave early, you’ll have 4 hours on the road and you can still enjoy settling in at Hervey Bay and K’gari. Hervey Bay is yet another location with stunning beaches, but it is especially well known for great whale watching (mainly between June and November). And, it is a gateway to the famous K’gari.

K’gari

Ferries from Hervey Bay can take you to the K’gari island – previously known as Fraser Island. K’gari is a magical place. It’s a World Heritage Site, said to be the world’s largest sand island, and it has for long been an important place for the original inhabitants of the land. On K’gari, you absolutely need a 4×4 to explore the island. If your vehicle doesn’t have this feature, you can easily join an organized tour for the most comprehensive experience of the island.

I’d recommend staying over at K’gari before continuing on your trip the next day. This way you’ll have the whole rest of your day to explore the special island, and the following morning. The easiest way to arrange this is through a full package (transport and accomodation) 2 day tour.

At K’gari, there are rock pools and creeks you can swim in, and lovely hiking trails. I can highly recommend taking a walk here, to appreciate the local plants and wildlife, as well as the landscape. Lake McKenzie’s blue depths are naturally infused with tea tree oil; it’s amazing having a swim in its clear waters. If you visit between June and October, you’ll have great chances of spotting whales. Yet, the most visited place at K’gari is 75 Mile Beach – so named for its impressive length. It actually serves as a highway, and is also used as a landing strip for light aircraft. 

Travel tip: If you only do one scenic flight in Australia, you’ll want it to be over K’gari. The world’s largest sand island plus humpback whales from the sky – does it get anymore Australia than this?

Day 7: Brisbane through Sunshine Coast

It takes just over 3 hours to drive from Harvey Bay to Brisbane, so you could take your time, and enjoy K’gari for a bit longer or explore the sights along the way to Brisbane. I’d suggest at least stopping to visit the Sunshine Coast. If you just choose one beach at Sunshine Coast, Noosa beach is well worth visiting. You’ll find lovely trails there, and lots of viewpoints from where you can take in the surrounding Coral Sea and, if you’re lucky, spot dolphins or other sea life.

Sunshine Coast is famed among surfers, as well. You can also visit a lighthouse right by the city, at a stunning location at Port Cartwright.

Alternatively, if you’ve had enough of the sand for a while, I highly recommend visiting Australia Zoo, if you enjoy seeing wildlife and learning about conservation. This zoo is considered one of the best zoos in Australia. Run by the family of Steve Irwin, the zoo upholds strong commitment to conservation, crocodile research, and rehabilitation.

Day 8: Brisbane – Queensland’s green capital city

Brisbane city centre is beautiful. After a few days in the small coastal towns, I’d recommend hopping on a walking tour to get your bearings. Although Brisbane is a big city, with high-rise building and the like, it also contains some aesthetically beautiful historic buildings, and the centre and river-side are dotted with lovely parks. Brisbane City Botanic Garden is maybe best known of them, located right in the heart of the city, along Brisbane River. There are beautiful walkways there, along with the countless trees and plants, and a cafe. It’s a great place for an afternoon stroll.

If you’re an art lover, or curious to learn more about Australia’s indigenous heritage, I highlight recommend visiting Queensland Museum Kurilpa. It is a fabulous place for learning about the histories of Australia’s First Nations and the mixed histories of the last few centuries.

There’s another garden in Brisbane, though, that I find highly recommendable. Mt Coot-tha Botanical Garden, at Brisbane’s suburbs, is one of the loveliest botanic gardens I’ve been to. It’s fairly large, with impressive subtropical displays, a tropical dome, a Japanese garden, and much more.

Days 8-9: Visit Gold Coast

I’d recommend you to make the hour-long drive to Gold Coast from Brisbane at the end of your 8^th day, to spend the night at this world-famous location, and to spend the next day there.

Gold Coast is a metropolitan region known especially for its wide stretches of beach, vibrant nightlife, and theme parks. There is much more to see and do here, though. Gold Coast is also close to the ancient Gondwana rainforests, such as those found at Lamington National Park. And I’d recommend visiting Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, a really beautiful animal sanctuary with lovely gardens and an animal hospital.

Keen to get under the skin of Surfers Paradise? There’s nothing more Australian than joining a surf class on the Gold Coast!

Day 10: Drive to Newcastle, with stops along the way

During this 7-8-hour drive, or a bit more with stops in between, you’ll get to visit more amazing beaches – this time in New South Wales.

Byron Bay is just an hour from Gold Coast, and it is known as a superb surfing spot. There is a stunning conservation area there, at a headland, called Cape Byron State Conservation Park. I love walking the trails here, and visiting the beautiful Cape Byron Lighthouse. It is still a small, coastal community, though it is increasingly popular amongst visitors and famous for its slightly bougie cafe scene and boutiques. If you have a few days extra, you can easily spend a few days at Byron Bay.

A few hours further south, at Coffs Harbour, many people stop to take a photo with the somewhat iconic Banana monument. However, Coffs Harbour is also surrounded by stunning natural sights. Waterfall Way scenic drive would make a bit of a detour, but it is really beautiful and well worth it. The detour would also take you to the lovely small town of Bellingen, with its down-to-earth atmosphere and colorful markets. Finally, I’d also recommend stopping at Port Macquarie. This fabulous coastal offers an iconic coastal walkway and one of the East Coast’s most beautiful lighthouses. For dinner, don’t miss the iconic Whalebone.

Day 11: Newcastle

Newcastle is a large urban area. Yet, the city itself still feels cozy and friendly. What I love about Newcastle is how it has so many trendy spots, like Nobby’s Beach with the famous lighthouse or the many restaurants and cafés close to the various beaches. Meanwhile, it’s also full of culture – there’s a lovely theatre in Newcastle, as well as a stunning university campus. My favorite thing about the city is, however, the nature it is engulfed in. The city centre has beautiful parks, and along the beach walks there are stunning nature areas. Hunter Wetlands is a lovely place to visit, to view local plants and animal life, such as amphibians and birds.

I always recommend walking along Bathers Way. It connects Nobby’s Beach to Merewether Beach, and along the way you can visit the historic site of Fort Scratchley, or have a swim at the ocean pool Bogey Hole.

Or, if you’re a friend of wines, the Hunter Valley lies close to Newcastle. It is well known for its amazing wineries, set in the beautiful New South Wales country side. I always sign myself up for a wine tour when I’m in this gorgeous region. If you’re a real wine aficionado, don’t miss our guide to the best wineries of Mudgee, New South Wales.

Days 12-13: Sydney and surrounds

The drive from Newcastle to Sydney is just about two hours. Whilst visiting Sydney, I do recommend having a look at some of the most popular sights of the city. The iconic Opera House at the harbor is simply beautiful, and it is fun walking over the nearby Harbour Bridge.

Not far from the Opera House are the Royal Botanical Gardens. They are a lovely place to relax for a while, under the shade of trees or amidst native and exotic plants. You may spot the flying foxes chatting in the canopies. Meanwhile, if you climb the Sydney Tower, you’ll have an awe-inspiring view of the surrounding city and the sea. I do recommend it, and the other attractions mentioned here, even if they’re certainly some of the most busy places in Sydney, in terms of visitors.

The city has so much more to offer, though. I love walking around, to see the shopping streets and malls, just to view the buzzing activity of this vibrant metropolis. In the busier areas especially, such as the waterfront areas, you can often see street performances by contemporary artists or First People artists. If you’d like to see wildlife, I can highly recommend Taronga Zoo. It is one of the best zoos I’ve even been to, in terms of education, facilities, and the environment. They house lots of native animals, but also animals from Africa and other continents. The giraffes by the entry are a stunning welcome to the zoo.

If you’re looking for something memorable to do in Sydney, do not miss out on the opportunity to climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge!

Visit the mesmerizing Blue Mountains

One of my personal favorite places in the whole world is Blue Mountains National Park. It is a vast area of bushland and forest, about an hour away from Sydney. The national park consists of table-shaped mountains with large valleys in between, and the valley bottoms are covered in towering eucalyptus trees and tree ferns. You’ll often hear the babble of a little brook while walking through the trees. As to wildlife, if you’re lucky, you might hear or see the special lyrebird – perhaps doing its unique imitation of the sounds it hears. Or, be on the lookout for small square-ish pellets; a wombat might be around.

Most trails to the nature area start in the villages of Katoomba and Leura. You’ll also find lovely restaurants and cafés in these places. I can highly recommend Black Cockatoo Bakery at Katoomba. These days there’s also a cable car at the Blue Mountains which takes you up above the treetops to a height of over 200 metres. It’s a great way to admire the national park if you’re not into hiking so much.

The easiest way to reach the Blue Mountains is with your own wheels, otherwise you’ll find many guided tours departing from Sydney daily.

Day 14: End your trip in Melbourne

Although quite a bit further south from Sydney, Melbourne could well be included in an East Coast Australia itinerary. Because of the distance, I’d recommend flying from Sydney to Melbourne on the night of your 13^th day or on the following morning, and enjoying the last day or two of your trip there.

Melbourne is a fabulous destination with a culturally rich, yet very trendy, city centre, and beautiful surrounding areas. I’ve never encountered a city centre quite so imaginative as that in Melbourne. There are many fascinating buildings portraying innovative contemporary designs, such as the iconic building of the vibrant Federation Square.

At the same time, the centre also contains some truly beautiful, historic buildings such as Flinders Street train station or the Princess Theatre. A tram system allows you to enjoy Melbourne centre for free. Apart from city things, the loveliest thing I’ve experienced in Melbourne is visiting the penguins. You can see Australia’s fairy penguins easily by visiting St Kilda Pier.

But if you ask any Melburnian why they love their city, the answer will unquestionably have something to do with food. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with an updated guide to Melbourne’s best brunch spots and an in-depth handbook to Melbourne’s Asian fusion cuisine.

For more insider tips from Melbourne, don’t miss our expert, locally-authored 3 day guide to Melbourne.

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