Top Spots to Visit on an East Coast Tour of Australia.

Bribie Island, Day tours from Brisbane city

Australia’s east coast offers some of the most iconic destinations, combining stunning beaches, vibrant cities, natural wonders, and thrilling adventure experiences. Stretching from Sydney in the south to the tropical rainforests of the Daintree in the north, this coast is a traveller’s paradise. Whether you’re after the pulse of city life, the beauty of remote islands, or the thrill of off-road adventures, the east coast of Australia has it all. This guide will walk you through the must-see spots, including a unique 4WD tour of Bribie Island with G’day Adventure Tours, plus other top activities to enjoy along the way.

Sydney: A Cosmopolitan Beginning to Your East Coast Adventure

Start your east coast tour in Sydney, Australia’s largest city and a cultural hub. Sydney is famous for its breathtaking harbour, iconic landmarks, and vibrant arts scene.

• Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge: These world-renowned structures are must-see attractions. Take a guided tour of the Opera House, or for the daring, climb to the top of the Harbour Bridge for panoramic views of the city and the harbour.
• Bondi Beach: For beach lovers, Bondi is the quintessential Sydney experience. Whether you’re swimming, surfing, or enjoying the coastal walk to Coogee, Bondi is a fantastic way to kick off your adventure.
• Taronga Zoo: For wildlife enthusiasts, Taronga Zoo offers a chance to see Australian animals up close, all with the stunning backdrop of Sydney Harbour.

Byron Bay: The Laid-Back Surfer’s Paradise

Next, head north to Byron Bay, a laid-back coastal town known for its surf culture, wellness retreats, and stunning sunsets.

• Cape Byron Lighthouse: Located at Australia’s most easterly point, the Cape Byron Lighthouse offers spectacular ocean views. Watch the sunrise or spot migrating whales between June and November.
• Surfing Lessons: Byron Bay is synonymous with surfing, and it’s a great spot for beginners and seasoned surfers alike.
• Yoga Retreats: Byron is also famous for its wellness scene, and you can find yoga retreats, meditation centres, and health-focused cafes throughout the town.

Brisbane: A City of Arts and Outdoor Adventure

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, offers a balance between cultural experiences and outdoor activities.

• South Bank Parklands: Explore Brisbane’s cultural heart along the Brisbane River. The parklands are home to the Queensland Art Gallery, the Gallery of Modern Art, and a man-made beach perfect for swimming and relaxing.
• Story Bridge Climb: For a bird’s-eye view of Brisbane, embark on a guided climb to the top of the Story Bridge. The 360-degree panorama is one of the best in the city.
• River Cruise: Hop on a river cruise to take in the city’s sights from the water, including the city skyline, Kangaroo Point, and the Botanic Gardens.

Bribie Island: 4WD Adventure with G’day Adventure Tours

A short drive from Brisbane, Bribie Island is a unique spot where you can experience a rugged 4WD adventure with G’day Adventure Tours.

• 4WD Beach Tour: Explore Bribie Island’s breathtaking natural beauty on a guided 4WD tour. This tour takes you off-road along the island’s stunning beach, through its forests, and past its historical military remnants. You’ll experience the wild side of Bribie while learning about the island’s history and ecology.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for kangaroos, wallabies, and bird species, as Bribie is a haven for wildlife.
• Swimming and Fishing: Bribie Island’s beaches and the calm waters of the Pumicestone Passage are perfect for swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding. After your adventure, cool off in the island’s pristine waters or try your hand at paddleboarding.

Moreton Island: A Gem of the Queensland Coast

Next on the itinerary is Moreton Island, a short ferry ride from Brisbane and a natural paradise.

• Tangalooma Wrecks: Snorkel or dive among the famous Tangalooma Wrecks, where you can spot vibrant marine life, including tropical fish and sea turtles.
• Sandboarding: Adventure seekers can try sandboarding on the island’s massive sand dunes, racing down the slopes for an adrenaline rush.
• Dolphin Feeding: At Tangalooma Resort, visitors have the chance to hand-feed wild dolphins, an unforgettable experience unique to Moreton Island.

Noosa: National Parks and Pristine Beaches

Noosa, on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, is renowned for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere.

• Noosa National Park: Take a scenic walk through Noosa National Park, where you can see koalas in the wild, hidden beaches, and dramatic coastal views.
• Hastings Street: This vibrant street offers boutique shopping, cafes, and fine dining, all just steps away from Noosa’s main beach.
• Surfing: Noosa’s gentle waves make it an ideal spot for beginner surfers, with numerous surf schools offering lessons.

K’gari (Fraser Island): The World’s Largest Sand Island

K’gari (Fraser Island) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest sand island, offering unique landscapes and adventure.

• Lake McKenzie: This crystal-clear freshwater lake is surrounded by white silica sand, making it one of the island’s most beautiful natural attractions.
• 75 Mile Beach: Drive along this long stretch of beach, where you can stop at highlights like the Maheno Shipwreck and the Champagne Pools.
• Eli Creek: Float down this freshwater creek, one of the island’s most popular natural attractions.

Rainbow Beach: Gateway to K’gari

Rainbow Beach is a small coastal town known for its colourful cliffs and as a gateway to K’gari.

• Sand Blow: Visit the Carlo Sand Blow, a massive sand dune offering views of the coloured sands and the coastline.
• Surfing and Kayaking: Rainbow Beach’s surf is perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers, while kayaking tours offer a chance to explore the surrounding waters and marine life.

1770 & Agnes Water: Tranquil Coastal Beauty

1770 and Agnes Water are twin towns offering quiet beaches and adventure activities.

• Surfing: Agnes Water is known as the northernmost surf beach in Queensland.
• Kayaking and Sunset Cruises: Explore the coastline and nearby islands by kayak, or enjoy a sunset cruise in the tranquil waters off the town of 1770.
• Lady Musgrave Island: A trip to Lady Musgrave Island provides world-class snorkelling and diving opportunities on the Great Barrier Reef.

Yeppoon and Great Keppel Island: Off the Beaten Track

Further north, Yeppoon serves as the gateway to the idyllic Great Keppel Island, part of the southern Great Barrier Reef.

• Great Keppel Island: Enjoy snorkelling, diving, and bushwalking on this peaceful, uncrowded island.
• Explore Yeppoon: Yeppoon offers beautiful beaches, a relaxed atmosphere, and access to the Capricorn Coast’s stunning natural attractions.

Airlie Beach: Gateway to the Whitsundays

Airlie Beach is the launchpad for exploring the world-famous Whitsunday Islands.

• Whitsunday Islands Sailing: Take a sailing trip through the Whitsundays, stopping at iconic spots like Whitehaven Beach, known for its pure silica sand and turquoise waters.
• Snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef: Airlie Beach is one of the best places to access the Great Barrier Reef. Join a snorkelling or diving tour to experience the reef’s vibrant coral and marine life.

Townsville and Magnetic Island: Tropical Vibes and Koalas

Townsville, a vibrant tropical city, offers easy access to Magnetic Island, a short ferry ride away.

• Magnetic Island: Known for its rugged beauty and wildlife, Magnetic Island offers bushwalking trails, secluded beaches, and the chance to spot wild koalas in their natural habitat.
• Reef HQ Aquarium: Back in Townsville, visit Reef HQ, the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium, where you can learn more about the Great Barrier Reef’s ecosystem.

Cairns: The Heart of the Great Barrier Reef

Cairns is the gateway to two of Australia’s greatest natural wonders: the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest.

• Great Barrier Reef Tours: From Cairns, join a snorkelling or diving tour to explore the coral reefs and marine life of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Kuranda Scenic Railway: Take a scenic train ride to the rainforest village of Kuranda, where you can explore local markets, wildlife parks, and cultural experiences.

Port Douglas: A Tropical Getaway

Just north of Cairns, Port Douglas offers a more laid-back experience with easy access to both the reef and the rainforest.

• Snorkelling and Diving: Port Douglas is another excellent base for Great Barrier Reef tours, with daily trips to the outer reef.
• Four Mile Beach: Relax on this beautiful stretch of sand or take a leisurely bike ride along the beach.

The Daintree Rainforest: The World’s Oldest Living Rainforest

End your east coast adventure in the ancient Daintree Rainforest, a World Heritage-listed site where the rainforest meets the reef.

• Cape Tribulation: Explore the remote Cape Tribulation, where you can hike through the rainforest, spot wildlife, and relax on secluded beaches.
• Daintree River Cruise: Take a cruise along the Daintree River to spot crocodiles, birdlife, and other native species.

FAQs

What is the best time to visit the east coast of Australia?
The best time to visit is between May and October when the weather is mild and dry in most regions, perfect for exploring beaches and islands.

Can you 4WD on Bribie Island?
Yes, you can enjoy a thrilling 4WD tour of Bribie Island with G’day Adventure Tours, exploring beaches, forests, and wildlife-rich areas.

Which is the best spot for diving on the Great Barrier Reef?
Lady Musgrave, Airlie Beach and Cairns offer excellent access to diving sites on the Great Barrier Reef, with tours departing regularly from these locations.

What are the must-see national parks on the east coast of Australia?
Top national parks include Bribie Island National Park, Moreton Island, Noosa National Park, the Daintree Rainforest, and Fraser Island’s Great Sandy National Park.

Can I see koalas in the wild on the east coast of Australia?
Yes, places like Noosa National Park, Magnetic Island, and the Daintree Rainforest offer opportunities to see koalas in their natural habitat.