Australia is vast. So very vast. As the planet’s biggest island and sixth-largest country, there truly are a lot of things that can be found, explored, and done here.
We’ve covered travelling through the middle of Australia, but we’ve gone further since. The east coast alone stretches over 2,500 miles – from the vibrant city of Sydney in the south all the way up to the tropical wonderland of Queensland’s Cairns in the North. Travelling through eight climate zones, this region offers an incredible variety of travel experiences – and here are the best ones.
Before you set off, ensure you’ve got everything you need, as travelling across the globe (literally! Australia is almost exactly the UK’s antipode) definitely comes with a bit of stress. You should apply for an Australian eVisitor visa way ahead of time, make sure your passport is up to date and have a chat with your GP to see if you need to top up on any vaccines.
Starting In The South
If you begin your journey in the southern section of Australia’s East Coast, chances are great that you’re starting in the bustling city of Sydney – and that rightfully so. You can explore iconic and internationally known landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House or the Sydney Harbour Bridge, before venturing into the nearby Blue Mountains for a stunning natural beauty.
The name comes from the marvellous blue hue the mountainous range takes on when viewed from a distance – which we definitely recommend, among taking some amazing hikes in the mountains themselves!
Continue your way to some south coast adventures in Byron Bay, a laid-back coastal town famous for its pristine beaches and alternative lifestyles.
Travelling Upwards
As you continue your road trip up the coast, you’ll eventually reach the vibrant city of Brisbane, Queensland’s capital. A wonderful place to stroll along the Brisbane River and enjoy the cultural precinct of Youth Bank. In addition to, you know, exploring a vibrant city.
You should definitely make some time to visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary though, to meet one of Australia’s most famous and cuddly unique wildlife up close.
A bit further north, Fraser Island beckons with its natural wonders, including lush rainforests and truly pristine lakes. A 4WD, or a four-wheel driving tour, is a must for exploring this sand island’s diverse landscape though, so be prepared!
Reaching The North
The northern stretch of Australia’s East Coast is an incredible tropical paradise – and a side, that many might not immediately associate the country with. It offers stunning opportunities to sail or cruise to the Whitsunday Islands, for example, where crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and Whitehaven Beach’s pure silica sand await.
This is also where you’ll find the Great Barrier Reef, the UNESCO World Heritage site, in which you can snorkel or dive in its unique vibrant underwater world. Even further north you’ll find the Daintree Rainforest, which offers an opportunity to explore the ancient landscapes it holds – and if you’re lucky, you might even spot some crocodiles on a river cruise, while you immerse yourself in the lush jungle surrounding.
Finally, in Cairns, a vibrant city that blends adventure and relaxation, slow down a bit with the Cairns Esplanade and take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to Kuranda. You made it!
