Best of East Australia: A Local’s Guide for Adventure, Food, and Paradise

Meet Gemma! She is a total badass. I met her last summer while traveling in Thailand and if anyone knows a thing a two about travel, it’s this girl! After graduating college, she took off to explore the world, she’s gone to Iceland, Vietnam, Indonesia, Africa, Switzerland, Greece, Italy, Austria, Ireland, and Spain… and her newest adventure, the entire east coast of Australia 🙂 After traveling to Australia, she decided to get a work visa and stay for a while. She has built an entirely new life for herself filled with new friends, scenery, hobbies, and lovers:) Gemma is one of the most easy-going, fun-loving, adventurous gals I’ve ever met. If there is one thing that I’ve learned from her, it’s BOOK THE TRIP! Just do it. We don’t have forever! I hope you enjoy this Australia East Coast Itinerary we made! Don’t forget to check out Gemma’s page! @gemma_h_xoxox

“Going traveling has been one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I have met incredible people, done incredible things, met an amazing man and seen beautiful things. However, once I stopped traveling and started ‘living’ if you will, things became a lot more difficult than I thought they would be. I’ve always been close with my family and friends but I never realized how difficult I would find it being away from them. When you are traveling around it is easy to think they are just around the corner and you’re so distracted by the skydiving and dolphins that you tend to forget about the life you lived before you left. People come on a WHV because they are leaving a life they hate, some people are running away from something, but me, I just left because I was struggling with my exams at work and just needed a change after covid. I loved my life and everything about it, I just thought fuck it why not I’m only 22. 

But for every photo of a sunset, or video of a night out, there’s one of me in tears because it’s the first year my parents haven’t bought me an easter egg or my friends have gone for dinner and i’m not there. I’ve been away for 11 months now and I have missed birthdays, promotions, redundancies, moves; my dad even had a stroke, and all I could do was call and say I’m sorry. Not being able to support the people involved in any of these events was heartbreaking and I worry the longer I stay the more I will miss. 

Travelling has allowed me to be completely myself, not worry about what anyone thought, just lived nomadically with like minded people and I allowed myself to live my life the way I wanted to, but i’m not travelling anymore. I know in my heart that Australia isn’t my forever, but the situation in the U.K is so dire right now I can’t justify giving up $28 an hour to work in a bakery and I never anticipated a 6’5 Australian plumber would turn up either. So for now i’m going to travel in small doses, Singapore here, The Phillipines there and keep myself fulfilled as much as possible.

I am happy on my little island. I finish work at 11 am, and spend my days on the beach, but as I sit writing this in the one pub on the island, Peach Bellini in hand, alone, I can’t help but wish my friends and family would’ve got to experience this journey with me”.

– gemma x

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Traveling Internationally? Check out the 7 Top Essentials you NEED when traveling abroad↗

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1 AUD = 0.67 USD= 0.53£

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Best Time To Visit

1. Autumn (March to May) and Spring (September to November) are great times to visit because of their mild temperatures and fewer crowds!
2. Summer (December to February) particularly for beach vibes and adventurous activities. This is the peak tourist season though, so prices for flights and accommodations will be high and destinations will be crowded!
3. Winter (June to August) is a great time to visit the Northern parts of Australia, such as Darwin and the Top End, as the weather is dry and mild. It can also be a good time for skiing in New South Wales or Victoria.

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Flying

If you’re traveling long distances in Australia, flying is usually the quickest and most convenient option. Here are some budget-friendly airlines

1. Jetstar Airways ↗– Jetstar is a budget airline that operates both domestic and international flights in Australia. It is known for offering cheap airfares and has a reputation for being one of the most affordable airlines in the country.
2. Tigerair Australia ↗– Tigerair offers low-cost domestic flights in Australia. It is a subsidiary of Virgin Australia and is known for its cheap airfares and basic accommodation with minimal upgradable services.
3. Virgin Australia ↗– While not as budget-friendly as Jetstar or Tigerair, Virgin Australia is still a relatively affordable airline that offers domestic and international flights. It often has sales and promotions that can make its airfares quite competitive.
4. Qantas↗– Qantas is Australia’s national carrier and is generally considered to be a full-service airline. However, it does offer budget-friendly fares on some of its domestic routes, particularly if you book well in advance or during a sale.
5. Rex ↗– Regional Express (Rex) is a regional airline that operates flights to smaller destinations across Australia. While its fares may not be as cheap as some of the other budget airlines, it can be a good option for traveling to more remote areas of the country.

Bus

Many travelers opt for the Greyhound bus↗ bus service in Australia operates as a long-distance coach service that covers the major cities and towns along the east coast.

To use the Greyhound service, you can purchase a travel pass which allows you to hop on and off the bus as you please along the designated routes. There are different packages that cover a range of routes and travel days.

7 days– $265 15 days– $339– 30 days– $415 60 days– $529 90 days– $665 120 days $789

When you purchase your pass, you’ll receive a schedule of the bus routes and times, and you can then book your seat for each leg of your journey. It’s important to book your seats in advance, as the buses can fill up quickly during peak travel times.

The buses themselves are coach-style, with comfortable seats, air conditioning, and restrooms on board! Some of the longer journeys may have a stopover, allowing you to stretch your legs and grab some snacks. But make sure you pack some beforehand! They also include Wi-Fi but it’s a bit spotty so download those Netflix shows before you go. This is the most recommended for solo travelers, it’s a great opportunity to meet new people and make some friends along the way!

Rent a car

Renting a car is ideal if you plan on traveling for an extended period of time, want to go at your own pace, and especially if you want to explore more rural areas and the outback.

Car rental services such as Transfer Car↗ offer vehicles to rent for as low as $1 per day when you drive them from point A to point B.

Transfercar is a unique service that works with rental car companies that need to relocate their vehicles from one location to another.

Instead of paying for a truck or driver to relocate the car, the rental company offers the vehicle for free or at a very low cost to a registered Transfercar user who is willing to drive it to the desired location. This way, the rental company saves money on relocation costs, and the user gets a free or cheap rental car for their trip.

To use Transfercar, you’ll need to register on the website and search for available vehicles that need to be relocated. You can then book the vehicle for a specified period of time, usually around 3-5 days, and pay a small deposit to secure the booking. Once you pick up the car, you’ll be responsible for fuel costs and any additional insurance you may want to purchase.

It’s important to note that Transfercar vehicles are often only available for a one-way journey, so you’ll need to make alternative travel arrangements for your return journey. You’ll also need to stick to the rental company’s schedule and drop off the vehicle at the specified location and time.

Overall, Transfercar is a great option if you’re budget-conscious and don’t mind a bit of flexibility in your travel plans. It’s a unique way to see more of Australia and save money!

Depending on the vehicle, you have to be at least 21–25 years old to rent. However, be aware of the ‘young driver surcharge’ if you’re 21-24 years old. This can be around 23.50 AUD per day

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Tips

-If you aren’t sleeping in a camper van, always stay in hostels. It’s the best way to meet people. The app Hostel World↗ is super easy to use, and when booking you don’t even have to pay until you arrive. Don’t worry about arriving too early, all hostels also have luggage rooms to store your things even if you can’t check-in.

-Alcohol is very expensive in Australia so always pregame when you can!

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Regional Work

• If you’re traveling, and you’d like to stay in Australia for a bit longer than intended, you may consider getting a 417 Working Holiday VISA. This requires 88 days’ worth of “farm work”. And yes, I mean an actual farm. There is talk that the regional work may be over soon, meaning you can come to Australia from specific countries and not have to do your 88 days in order to secure a 2nd year working holiday VISA.

• This means you could stay for 3 years with no questions asked. However, if you do need to do it there are plenty of ways you can do it without going to a farm. I knew before I came that I was not cut out for it so I found a hospitality job on a ‘remote island’ called Stradbroke (Minjerribah). I spend my days as a barista/baker in a bakery working from 4:30 am-11 am. This works great for me because I get to spend all my afternoons on the beach and spend a lot of my time just enjoying the wildlife and the island.

• If you look on the Australian government website it will tell you all the information you need and what jobs you can do depending on the postcode. It is all very postcode specific so just be careful when you are looking. Do keep in mind that there are a lot of people looking for regional work so it can be very competitive in areas that are densely populated with travelers, like Cairns. Most importantly do not leave the 88 days too late because very often you will not complete a full week’s work (38 hours) in a week, so give yourself some buffer time so you’re not caught short: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/work-holiday-417/specified-work

Gemma stays on Stradbroke Island off the coast of Brisbane, here is what she has to say about it!

“I have been living on Stradbroke Island since January and am staying here until the end of May. It is a small little island with a population of around 2,000 people and I work in a bakery here. Seeing dolphins, turtles, manta rays, koalas, and sunbathing on the beach is all part of my daily life. I would recommend living on a small island to anyone for a little while just to experience ‘island life’ because it really is something else. It’s super chilled, very small, lots of surf. There’s great weather, even better storms, and gives you a chance to switch off and recharge”

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~The Itinerary~

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Here is a Google map to help guide you through your trip! I have everything listed on the itinerary on the map! Feel free to download it and accommodate it to you personally! Starting in Melbourne, then Sydney, Bondi, Byron, Surfers Paradise, Brisbane, Fraser Island, Bundaberg, Airlie Beach, Whitsundays, Magnetic Island, and Cairns.

Melbourne

Space Hostel

Space Hostel↗ is a great place to stay if you want to be in the middle of the action. It’s located near many bars, activities, and nightlife. It’s clean, has friendly staff, and has a great location!

• Location: Space Hotel is located in the heart of Melbourne, Australia. It is a short walk from Queen Victoria Market, Chinatown, and Melbourne Central.
• Rooms: Space Hotel offers a variety of room options, including private rooms, female-only dorms, co-ed dorms, and family rooms. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, heating, and free Wi-Fi!
• Shared facilities: including a kitchen, laundry facilities, and a common area
• Rooftop Terrace: stunning views of the city skyline
• Movie Room– with popcorn!

Hijinx hotel

Instead of staying at the Hijinxx Hotel↗ why not play in it!? This is a really unique activity where you and your friends can complete 10 different challenge rooms with different themes, puzzles, and difficulty levels. Each room is a different experience with epic Instagramable views. Let your inner kid take over and let your creativity flow as you complete these challenges!

Hours: 10:00 a.m.- 10:00 p.m.

Costs: per room: $10-$20 All Day Pass: $50

Puffing Billy Railway

Want to hang your feet off the side of this epic historic steam train while zooming through lush forests, picturesque towns, and the countryside of the Dandenong Ranges? Puffing Billy ↗ is a popular tourist attraction but it is a must-do! But be conscious of the steam train soot, it can land on your lap and in your eyes depending on where you are sitting- But it doesn’t go off the whole time so just be aware!

Day trips from:

Belgrave-> Lakeside, Lakeside-> Gembrook, Belgrave-> Menzies Creek, Belgrave-> Gembrook

Pricing: $31-$150 depending on the type of carriage you choose!

Great Ocean Road

If you want stunning scenery including limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and the most beautiful beaches you’ve ever seen, Great Ocean Road just answered your prayers. This stretch of coastal road is 243 miles long (391 kilometers) and great for camping, hiking, and road trips! Here are a few of the most popular destinations 🙂

• The Twelve Apostles: These are a group of limestone stacks that rise out of the ocean
• Loch Ard Gorge: a natural harbor named after a shipwreck in 1878, with absolutely stunning views!
• London Bridge: This is a limestone cliff that collapsed into a natural arch in 1990
• The Grotto: An incredible cave that can be accessed by swimming or walking through a natural tunnel
• The Bay of Islands: located off the coast of Apollo Bay, popular for snorkeling and kayaking

The entire strip can take up to 12 hours to complete so be prepared. Pack lots of snacks, water, and extra clothes!! The weather can change quite quickly so bring options for sun, rain, and wind! Also, bring hiking sandals or tennis shoes for the hikes, it can get quite rocky 🙂

Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs

Relaxation awaits! The Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs↗ are about 90 minutes by car from Melbourne but definitely worth the drive! This is a popular destination so make sure you plan ahead, here are some tips to help you out:)

Average Price:

• Adult admission (16+) on weekdays is $120 AUD.
• Adult admission (16+) on weekends is $140 AUD.

Open hours: 9 a.m.– 9. p.m daily!

Traveling tips:

• Ferry: You can take a ferry to the hot springs from Melbourne! The ferry ride takes about 40 minutes. Make sure to book your tickets in advance, they fill up quickly!
• Public transport: There is no direct public transportation to the hot springs but there is a train to Frankston, from there and take a bus to Rye. You can take a taxi or Uber from Rye to the hot springs.
  • the last train leaves Rye at 6 p.m.
• Car: Use google maps of course, but take the M1 East Freeway to the Mornington Peninsula Freeway, and then follow the signs to Fingal.

Once you arrive at the hot springs, there is a free car park available and a shuttle to bring you to and from the hot springs!

The Pillars: Mt. Martha

Cliff Diving!! Also located on the Mornington Peninsula, a perfect place to seek your adventurous side. With crystal blue waters and a stunning coastline, what better place to conquer your fear? The tallest cliff comes in at 82 feet with surrounding waters ranging from 6-32 feet deep so be mindful of where you jump! But if you are cautious and sober… you’ll be okay:) Cliff diving is such a rush, and I recommend that anyone thinking about it go for it! You’ll want to do it again and again!

Phillip Island Penguin Parade

Phillip Island is home to seals, koalas, and of course Penguins! Every night, just after sunset, you can witness hundreds of little penguins come ashore and waddle up to their burrows. An experience you really don’t want to miss!

Penguin parade costs ↗

• Adult (16 years and over): AUD 38.50
• Child (4-15 years): AUD 22.50

There are a number of attractions on Phillip Island such as the Nobbie Centre, Phillip Island Grand Prix, and the Churchill Island Heritage Farm. You can purchase the Phillip Island Nature Park Pass for access to all.

• Adult (16 years and over): AUD 61.00
• Child (4-15 years): AUD 30.50

But unfortunately, it doesn’t cover parking. which is annoying…..

Parking fees include: Penguin Parade is AUD 10 per day Parking at the Nobbies Centre is AUD 5 per day and parking at the Churchill Island Heritage Farm is AUD 3 per day.

However, you can purchase a 4 Parks Pass which includes parking at all three locations for AUD 35 per day.

Traveling to Phillip Island

• By car: The drive from Melbourne to Phillip Island takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The best route is via the Monash Freeway to the South Gippsland Highway, then follow the signs to Phillip Island.
• By ferry: There is a passenger ferry service that runs between Stony Point on the Mornington Peninsula and Cowes on Phillip Island. The journey takes about 45 minutes.
• By bus: V/Line operates a bus service that gets you from Melbourne to Phillip Island. The bus departs from Southern Cross Coach Terminal in Melbourne and arrives at Ventnor Beach R. in Cowes on Phillip Island. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.
  • Cost: a single ticket is AUD 12.00 for adults
  • Return ticket is AUD 22.00.
  • The bus stop is located at Southern Cross Coach Terminal, which is a short walk from Southern Cross Station. Arrive at the bus stop early! Seats get filled quickly.

Getting around Phillip Island

• Car: Easily the best way to get around Phillip Island is by car. It gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. No rules and an open road.
• Bus: Phillip Island Explorer Bus Loop. The bus loop runs a circular route around the island, stopping at all of the major attractions, including the Penguin Parade, the Nobbies Centre, and the Churchill Island Heritage Farm. The bus is a great way to see the island and get around without having to worry about parking.
  • The bus runs every 30 minutes from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, seven days a week.
  • Costs: a single ticket is AUD 5.00 for adults
  • Day passes are AUD 15.00 for unlimited travel. A great way to see the island without having to worry about parking fees!

Sydney

*Key Tip* Do NOT stay at the Wake Up House. It was dirty and it was an overall unpleasant experience.

Sydney Central YHA (Hostel)

Just a short walk from Central Station, Sydney Central YHA ↗ is located in the heart of Sydney. It’s in walking distance from the Sydney Opera House, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, heating, and free Wi-Fi. The hostel also has a number of shared facilities, including a kitchen, laundry facilities, and a common area.

• Location: located in the heart of Sydney, close to clubs, restaurants, and major attractions.
• Rooms: They offer co-ed and female/male-only dorms ranging from 4-16 beds, private rooms, and family rooms. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, heating, and free Wi-Fi.
• Shared facilities: Includes a kitchen, laundry facilities, and a common area.
• Highlights: Rooftop pool, sauna, cinema, convenient shop (snacks, toiletries, souvenirs), and an in-house restaurant open from 7:00 a.m.- 10:00 p.m.

• Prices: Dorm rooms start at AUD $30 per night, private rooms start at AUD $60 per night, and family rooms start at AUD $100 per night.

Smash Room City

Okay, this is my actual dream. Have you ever just wanted to take a sledgehammer and just smash everything in sight? Well, here you can! I think a rage room is such a cool and unique experience where you get loose and break things to your heart’s content:) And I’m talking TVs, computers, furniture, and more! You’ll get a safety speech and protective gear such as goggles and gloves. And then you can then start smashing away!

Open: 10:00 a.m- 6:00 p.m. Daily

Tickets ↗

• 10-minute session: AUD $25 per person
• 20-minute session: AUD $40 per person
• 30-minute session: AUD $55 per person

House Down Under

The Upside Down House is another unique experience that I wanted to include. This place makes you feel like you’re in a different world. You can climb on the ceiling and sleep in a bed hanging upside down! Imagine the Instagram pics. This is just a different activity that is so much fun and will guarantee to have the group feeling like kids again.

Tickets↗ Adults AUD 25 Kids AUD 20

Open: Weekdays: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry 5:00 p.m.)

Weekends: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (last entry 6:00 p.m. )

Kirribilli Lookout

The Kirribilli Lookout is a great place to get a panoramic view of Sydney Harbour! You’ll probably find yourself at the harbor just exploring, but to have the best view, the lookout is located on the north shore of the harbor. From here you can see the opera house, Harbour Bridge, and the city skyline:)

Manly Wormhole

The Manly Wormhole is a tunnel that was carved out in 1908 by local fishermen to avoid having to climb above the rocks to get between beaches. It’s located on the north end of Manly Beach near the Queenscliff Surf Life Saving Club. The tunnel is 40 meters long and about 2 meters wide. You’ll have to climb your way through some rocks to get there but once you see the red heart with “QBC” written on it you’re golden. Be cautious of the tide, if it is too high it will be closed. And make sure to wear shoes! The rocks can be sharp.

Sunset Cinema

If you’re traveling with a partner, this is the best date night! Watch a movie on the soft grass while overlooking the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a summer night, sitting underneath the stars, and relaxing on a picnic blanket. There’s also a bar!

Open: September- February (But check dates online, it varies every year)

Tickets↗ AUD 22 per adult (prices can vary per film)

Seating: Bring a blanket if you don’t mind sitting on the ground. Bean bag chairs AUD 10

If you’re feeling frisky, the Tim Tam Lounge costs AUD 45 and comes with reserved seating with prime viewing and bottomless popcorn 🙂

Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach is EXTREMELY popular, it’s in the heart of Sydney, easily accessible and very busy… I still recommend going because though it is busy, it’s a good busy. If you’re looking for a young crazy crowd, this is the place to go.

Wake Up! Hostel

Wake Up↗ Hostel is located in the heart of town, just a short walk from the beach and all the best restaurants and shops. It’s a clean hostel with a great atmosphere.

Accommodation: They offer Female-only dorms, mixed dorms, private rooms, and family rooms. Some have private bathrooms but it will cost you more. The rooms are clean along with the rest of the shared living space including the kitchen, common room, and laundry room! Seriously, take advantage of this ad do laundry when you can!

Highlights: Rooftop bar with stunning views of the beach! It’s really to make friends here because there are loads of activities guests can attend to, therefore more people tend to hang around. They offer free yoga classes, movie nights, and of course pub crawls 🙂 They also have a barbecue area, game room, and a luggage storage area.

Prices ↗

Dorm Rooms AUD 25 per night

Private rooms start at AUD 75 per night

Family rooms that start at AUD 120 per night.

Bondi Iceberg Club

This is more of a splurge but considering how busy Bondi Beach can be, I definitely recommend checking out this private club! It’s a nice neighborhood club that allows guests to use the 50-meter heated pool with the best view of the ocean, gym, and sauna with a guest pass. The club also has a bistro and bar which are reasonably priced but I still recommend pre-gaming if possible. They have pizza, salads, burgers, and a very Americanized menu. Expect a lot of tourists but a lively atmosphere, it’s a great place to meet people!
Cost↗ Day Pass AUD 30 for adults

AUD 20 for concession holders (seniors, students, and children under 16).

Karen’s Diner

Karen is such a bi***!… But don’t worry, it’s all a part of the experience 🙂 Karen’s Diner↗ is a 1950’s style diner that is known for its sarcastic and rude service so expect to be made fun of and bullied by the staff but don’t be afraid to snap back. It’s honestly hilarious. They have milkshakes, burgers, fries, and very big portions. It’s such a good time, here’s a sample of their menu:) Be sure to order a shake, they are delicious!

Appetizers

• Fried Pickles with ranch dressing ($10)
• Mozzarella Sticks with marinara sauce ($12)
• Onion Rings with ranch dressing ($10)
• Chicken Wings with your choice of sauce ($15)

Main Courses

• The Karen Burger ($20)
• The Big Mac Attack ($25)
• The Whopper ($22)
• The Grilled Cheese Sandwich ($15)
• The Mac and Cheese ($18)
• Fries ($7)
• Shakes ($12)

Diamond Bay

Take a walk to Diamond Bay and walk down these stairs built on the side of the limestone cliffs. No one knows for sure who built these stairs, but it is believed to have belonged to a washed-away house and they are incredibly dangerous so be careful and watch your step. If the weather is bad I say stay clear, but if it is dry, it makes for an excellent picture 🙂

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

If you want to hit some of the best beaches, waterfalls, and rock pools all in one go, definitely take a stroll on the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. This is a 3.7-mile, (6-kilometer) walk where you will see the most stunning views of the Pacific. This is definitely an all-day activity…. if you’d like it to be. There are a number of cafes, and restaurants that will feed you all day and bars to keep the buzz going. There are also free showers on the beaches so don’t worry about being sticky, just take a bag with a change of clothes, sunscreen, water bottle, bathing suit, and you’re golden. Here are some of the highlights of each beach:)

• Bondi Beach:  This is where the adventure begins. The trail starts at Bondi Ice Berg Club right by the water.
• Tamarama Beach: This is a bit smaller than Bondi Beach, but it is just as beautiful and known for its “toilet bowl” waves, which are perfect for surfing!
• Bronte Beach: Take a dip in the Bronte Baths! They are enclosed by a seawall and some get filled by water falls.. its absolutely gorgeous, and better yet, they are free!!
• Clovelly Beach: This is a unique beach with a number of rock pools surrounded by cliffs with a small waterfall. Also, a great place to snorkel!
• Gordons Bay: This is a great lookout point and small bay located between Clovelly Beach and Coogee Beach. Great views of the coastline with waterfalls that cascade down the cliffs.
• Coogee Beach: This will be the final beach along the walk which is great because it’s a great place to relax, grab dinner and take in this amazing day!

Byron Bay

Byron Bay YHA

If mixed-dorm hostels don’t bother you, I The Byron Bay YHA. They have private rooms as well but it’s about double the price. Dorms can go up to 12 people and they are all mixed. But if you are barely in the room like me, this won’t be a problem. They have free breakfast every morning with common areas and laundry facilities. It is a great place to stay if you are looking for a budget-friendly option!

Costs↗ Mixed-Dorm AUD 25 Private AUD 50

The Pass

If you’re looking for a spot to surf but you don’t want to practice with all the pro surfers, The Pass is a great place to go. There will be beginner surfers here trying to catch their waves. There is just a narrow-channel that separates this beach from Belongil Beach, so you can explore both!

Minyon Falls

This is a highlight of Byron Bay… a small risk with a huge reward. This is a short 1.6-mile loop (2.5 kilometers) that brings you through the rainforest and to the base of this amazing waterfall! Located in the Byron Bay Hinterland and just a short drive from Byron Bay. There is a picnic area with tables and a bathroom. Admission is free, there is parking lot as well but there is a parking fee of AUD 10. Great day for a hike, picnic, and a dip in the pools with waterfall views 🙂

Lighthouse coastal walk

Take this walk at sunset! It’s absolutely gorgeous and an easy walk that will take around 2 hours. This is about 4 miles (6.6km) and runs along Wategos Beach and have you ending at the incredible Cape Byron Lighthouse built in 1901. If you take this hike at sunrise or sunset, keep an eye out for the local wildlife including dolphins, whales, and seagulls! It’s not uncommon to spot them here!

Whites Beach

I particularly like this beach because of the jungle-covered low cliffs enclosing the sides of the beach and of course, the white sand. And yes just like the name the sand is WHITE and soft:) The waves here are a bit choppy and fold easily so this isn’t the best spot for surfing. This means if you are just looking to go for a swim, this is a great place if you don’t want to get hit in the head with a board!

Surfers Paradise

Tequila Sunrise Hostel

Tequila Sunrise is just a short walk from the beach and has one of the nicest kitchen facilities I’ve ever seen. Yes, it is important that everything be clean but some shared kitchens can get gross FAST, But not this one! And thank gosh because they host dinner here, I mean home-cooked meals 3/nights a week. A great way to socialize! The bunks themselves come with a double or single option including loads of storage, plugs, and a lovely blackout curtain to ensure your privacy:) Each pod will have their own section in one of the many fridges they have so you’ll have plenty of place to store food! I definitely recommend cooking in when you can, so take advantage of this kitchen! They also have a breakfast buffet with pancakes in the morning!

Costs↗ AUD 46/ night

Sky Point Observation Deck

Sky Point offers a view of the city and coastal line all in one go. The best part is, your ticket is a DAY pass, so you can visit as many times as you’d like during that day! See what the city looks like during the day, and then go back for sunset. You definitely won’t want to miss the night view! It’s insane.

Prices↗ AUD 31

Wet ‘N’ Wild Water Park

Okay I don’t know about you but I love water parks, and Wet ‘N’ Wild ↗ is the biggest in Australia! And better yet, it is open all year round. All the pools, slides, everything is heated during the colder months. A number of moives were filmed here, including The Inbetweeners 2 and Splash Planet. There’s thrill rides, a lazy river, and a giant wave pool. This just makes you feel like a kid at heart, and Australia is so hot, why not get refreshed while having fun? They have 17 Water slides, 4 wave pools, 2 lazy rivers, 1 kids’ water play area, and 1 sky coaster! Here are some of the top rides 🙂

• KABOOM!: This is a 3-in-1 water slide complex that includes a 65-foot-tall free fall slide, a 50-foot-tall racing slide, and a 40-foot-tall body slide.
• Super Ripper: This is a 65-foot-tall, four-lane racing slide that drops riders down a steep, twisting track.
• Double Barrel: This is a 50-foot-tall, double-barrel water slide that sends riders down a series of twists and turns.
• The Giant Wave Pool: perfect for body surfing!
• The Lazy River: a waterpark would not be complete without a lazy river, and they have 4! It’s a great way to relax and cool off.

In addition to its attractions, Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast also has a variety of food and beverage options, as well as a gift shop. The park is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, and it is a great place to cool off and have fun on a hot summer day.

Open: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily

Price: $79.95 for adults, $69.95 for children (4-12 years), $64.95 for seniors (60+ years), and $59.95 for children (3 years and under)

Finn McCool’s Irish Pub

This is a fun little pub for some imported beers, fish and chips, and great live music. At Finn McCool’s ↗ every night, live music ranges from rock and roll to Irish folk, and the blues. It’s a typical pub with low lighting and barrel bar stools. It’s a sports bar with a warm atmosphere and great food. Here are some of the best dishes.

• Fish and Chips – Beer battered cod, fries, tartar sauce – $14.00
• Shepherd’s Pie – Ground lamb, mashed potatoes, peas, gravy – $14.00
• Fish Filet – Beer battered cod, fries, tartar sauce – $14.00
• Danger Dog – Bacon-wrapped all beef frank, caramelized onions, pickled jalapeños, mayo, ketchup mustard, and mayonnaise – $9.00
• Irish Apple Crumble – Warm apple crumble with vanilla ice cream – $7.00

Miami Marketta

Appropriately named, Miami Marketta↗ is the most vibrant night market I’ve ever seen. They have everything from street food, clothes, jewelry, art, etc. all while being accompanied by live music. Even if it’s just to window shop, the vibes here are playful and fun. Don’t be surprised for sellers to be shakin’ what their momma gave them while they try to crack you a deal:)

Open: Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday 5:00-10:00 p.m.

Aquaduck

Okay, you HAVE to do this. The Aquaduck ↗ is straight out of a cartoon, absolutely bonkers. Imagine you’re riding in a bus, it’s pretty tall but then all of a sudden you go straight for the freaking river. But instead of dying you just experienced the coolest boat/bus ride of your entire life. This is a great way to tour the Gulf Coast from a new perspective! It’s about an hour tour and you’ll be able to see Mansions, wildlife, and waterways.

Cost: $33.15 for adults and $22.50 for children

Brisbane

Do NOT stay at Bunk Hostel. It was dirty, and just unpleasant so don’t make the same mistake! Stay at Nomads instead.

City Backpackers Hostel

City Backpackers has a killer rooftop lounge with a pool. There used to be a bar here but it longer exists. Which is disappointing because it is no longer on their website. I think the vibe is still nice thought, and you get a great view of the city. Some highlights of this hostel are evening pasta and a free sauna!

Costs↗ AUD 40 /Night

Retros

Retros is a great Brisbane bar known for its retro atmosphere and decor. It’s a trendy bar with vintage furniture, memorabilia, and GREAT music. You’ll be dancing the whole night, guaranteed 🙂 They have a mix of pop and rock music with a huge light-up dance floor, disco balls, and their signature fishbowl cocktail. This place is such a vibe, you wont even bother bouncing to other places.

Prices↗ AUD 20 cover charge

Open: Thursday (sometimes)

Friday-Saturday: 8:00- 3:00 p.m.

16 Antlers

Located on the 16th floor of the Pullman Brisbane King George Square hotel, 16 Antlers ↗ offers a stunning view of the city with it’s rooftop bar. They offer an array of tapas-styled dishes including patatas braves, croquetas, and pintxos. They also have a number of signature cocktails you don’t want to miss. Try The Antler, The Botanist, and The Manhattan. It is definitely more of a chill vibe than Retros so put on your classiest outfit and play the part for the night!

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

If you’re on the lookout for Koalas, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary↗ is a great place to go! Built-in 1927, their goal has always been to provide koalas with a safe home and educate the public about these amazing animals. This sanctuary offers more than just koalas though, you can expect to see kangaroos, wombats, emus, and reptiles. Here you can learn all about them in their natural habit. Here are some of the highlights 🙂

• Meet koalas: Obviously, you can’t miss this experience. But expect to pay an extra AUD 25 for it. I know but, imagine snuggling with a koala? The time you get is limited, about 20 minutes but it’s so worth it!
• Feed kangaroos: To feed the Kangaroos. you can purchase a bag of food for AUD 3.
• See a show: They also offer a variety of shows to help you learn more about the wildlife in a n interactive way. There are many shows running throughout the day including sheepdogs, platypus feedings, and bird shows.

• Open: 9 am to 5 pm Daily
• Cost: $44 for adults, $34 for children, and $39 for seniors.

The Australia Zoo

Yup! Steve Irwin himself! May he rest in peace, but his kids are still running it! Bindi and Robert, with their mom Terri. It’s honestly incredible! There are so many events and shows and habitats to check out where you are certain to see the animals close up! This is such a gem in Australia that you don’t want to miss it.

Tickets↗ $65

Climb Storey Bridge

Yup, you read that right. You can climb Brisbane’s Storey Bridge and get the city’s most amazing views! Now this climb takes about 2 hours and 1,138 steps of a wide range of emotions. It’s easy to keep going and walking forward, but when you turn back, it just keeps getting scarier and scarier. But in a good way! It is a difficult climb so just take your time and enjoy this unique challenge. You’ll receive a wind suit and waist band that will keep you secure the entire time, so no worries!

Prices ↗

• Day Climb: $129
• Twilight Climb: $159
• Night Climb: $139
• Full Moon Climb: $179
• Sunday Funday Climb: $109
• Bring a Bestie Climb: $99
• Dawn Climb: $159

Fraser Island (K’gari)

Fraser Island (K’gari) is the best place in Australia by far. You can 4WD down the beach, camp under the best set of stars you will ever see, swim in natural lakes, sand board down the dunes, learn about the history/geography of the island and have the best time. Definitely book onto a tour so you are with a group of around 20/25 with a guide and you drive in convoy, spending your trip getting to know one another. There are a number of tour groups that bring you Fraser island and most offer day trips all the way to 4 night trips. Some of the highlights of Fraser island include the SS. Maheno Shipwreck, Lake Mckenzie, and Eli creek. And make sure to bring your alcohol! It will be a whole lot cheaper.

Here are some of the tours I recommend:)

Fraser-Tours ↗ This one is cool because though you are on a tour, you are given your own 4WD.

Fraser Explorer↗ Tours: This one includes hotel stay, 30 group members, and a return ferry ride!

Hervey Bay Eco Marine Tours↗ – a more intimate group, the limit is 20 people. They also have their own private beach house! You also get 4 included meals.

Bundaberg

Bunk Inn Hostel

Bunk Inn Hostel was a minimal hostel and it’s not very stylish but clean and gets the job done. It’s also a self-check-in hostel, so check in before you arrive, and don’t be surprised if no one is at the front desk. Just be patient and look for help. It’s a smaller hostel but the shower, and kitchen are very nice. And the good news, it’s extremely affordable.

Costs ↗

• Dorm beds: $25 per night.
• Private rooms: $50 per night.
• Family rooms: $75 per night.

Mon Repos Turtle Centre

The Mon Repos Turtle Centre is a great place to learn about different species of turtles including green, loggerhead, and leatherback turtles. There is an interactive display and a hatchery where you can watch baby turtles hatch. You can also watch the turtles come ashore and lay their eggs. They have guided walking tours where you can see turtles’ nests and learn more about the needs for survival.

Costs↗ $20 Adults, $15 Student, $10 Child

Open: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Daily

Explore the Bundaberg Rum Distillery

Here’s your chance to taste all the famous Australian Spirits all in one place. Founded in 1888, The Bundaberg Rum distillery↗ will take you through all the steps the brewing process entails while sipping on your favorite rum. You’ll get to see the molasses mill and all the behind-the-scenes. And at the end of the tour, you can sample any of the top-shelf rums! Afterward, you can stick around and check out the bar! There are loads to try here.

Tour Prices: $30 for Adults

Bundaberg Barrel

If you aren’t into rum, The Bundy Barrel offers a different kind of distillery.. of soda:) Here you can taste Bundaberg ginger beer, lemon-lime & bitters, and sarsaparilla. It’s a great way to learn the history but also taste these incredible blends.

Here are some of the drinks you can expect to try:)

• Bundaberg Ginger Beer
• Bundaberg Lemon Lime & Bitters
• Bundaberg Sarsaparilla
• Bundaberg Creaming Soda
• Bundaberg Passionfruit
• Bundaberg Pineapple & Coconut
• Bundaberg Tropical Mango
• Bundaberg Guava

Price↗ $10 per person

Open: 9 am- 5 pm

Lady Musgrave Island

Definitely take a trip to Lady Musgrave Island from Bundaberg and camp there if you can. It’s a gorgeous island and a great way to see the Great Barrier Reef. Located in the Capricornia Cays, a group of the Great Barrier Reef is surrounded by this beautiful lagoon which is home to this amazing wildlife including 6 breathtaking coral. There are a number of trails on this island so don’t be shy to look around this national park! There are a number of tours you can choose from including those that focus on the Great Barrier Reef.

If you are planning on seeing Lady Musgrave Island and the Great Barrie Reef in one go, I highly recommend a tour from the Lady Musgrave Experience ↗ They offer day tours and more. The day tour it includes tea, lunch, and all your snorkeling gear. Tours leave Bundaberg from 7:15 am- 5:00 pm.

Prices: Day Tour AUD 170

Airlie Beach

Magnums

Magnums ↗ is a great option that has you right in the center of town and a few minutes from the beach. But it’s also one of the coolest hostels I’ve seen. It feels like a beach village and the rooms themselves do not feel like a hostel. And there is a huge venue for parties!

The beds themselves are each on the groud-no bunk bed, which I love. There are different huts with porches and paths connecting them to each other. They also have a pool which is a huge highlight. It’s very clean and well-maintained. The shared dorms come with 4-8 to a dorm but they also offer single rooms! There is a shared living space of course, but each room comes with its own desk. So if you need to focus, you’ll have a better shot doing it here. The outside ground is turf, which really adds to the feel of this neighborhood feel to this place.

Costs:

• Prices vary a lot with these but expect it to be more expensive than the others.

Now Airlie Beach is cool and all, but Whitsunday is where it’s at.

Whitsundays Island Boat Trip

One thing to don’t want to miss is the Clipper boat trip on the Whitsundays. Departing from Airlie Beach, Sailing Whitsundays ↗ have many options to explore! It’s definitely more of a party boat with lots of drinking, swimming, waterslides and hangovers:) But I was on the smaller sister boat and it was very tame so the Clipper is a lot better for travelers. The sleeping quarters are very confined so it wouldn’t be great if you’re claustrophobic but the boat will take you to all the best locations, provide all the food and you’re bound to see plenty of whales and luminescent plankton! The highlights inlcudes the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven beach, and Hill Inlet Lookout.

Prices: AUD 550 2 day/2 Night

Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island is only a 20-minute ferry ride from Townsville! Which is right along the east coast.

Base/Nomadse

The name Base and Nomads are used interchangeably which can be a bit confusing but if you’re staying at Base then you are also staying at Nomads. They have a base in many of the major cities in Australia so if you’re stuck on where to stay, this is always a great option. They have a great in-ground pool and the rooms come with a great view of the ocean! The Wi-Fi here is crap, I’m not gonna lie, but the food here is great!

Costs↗ AUD 100

Geoffrey Bay

Head to the city of Arcadia on Magnetic Island and head to Geoffrey Bay. Here you will find tons of rocks and a colony of rock wallabies! You are almost guaranteed to see them here. It’s a short hike to see them and definitely worth it. Just be careful and respectful of the wildlife.

Horseshoe Bay

Horseshoe Bay is such a beautiful cove surrounded by rocks but has the softest sand. There are a number of rock pools and rock wallabies! Palm trees line this cove and take you to Fort’s hike.

Fort’s hike

The Forts Walk is a popular trail on Magnetic Island that comes into around a 2.2-mile (3.5-kilometer) loop. This trail is incredible, it takes you through the eucalypt and acacia woodlands, past koala habitats, and up to the ruins of World War II fortifications. The views from the top of the fortifications are stunning, and you can see all the way to Townsville. it’s a moderate hike with some steep sections so wear tennis shoes and bring tons of water. It starts at the Forts Junction Hub, which is located at the end of Horseshoe Bay Road. There is a car park and a toilet here so go before the hike. The trail is well-marked, and it is easy to follow so just relax and enjoy the view and the history!

Sky Diving on Mission Beach

After leaving Magnetic Island, I say go straight to Cairns. Unless you want to do something adventurous… like SKYDIVE! In that case, head straight to Mission Beach. There is no better place to skydive in Australia because you are right on the beach. Skydive Australia↗ is the company I used. You can even see whales/wildlife in the ocean as you’re parachuting down which makes the experience even better. They will take photos and videos on a go pro for you but this is about $120 extra on top of the jump fee, but it is well worth it. One of my favorite parts of the whole experience was being able to watch it back and relive the memory!

Price: AUD 350ish

Cairns

Gilligans ↗ is definitely a party hostel if you’re up for it. Expect the atmosphere the be very welcoming and upbeat. There is a bar and restaurant on site so it’s a great hangout spot to meet fellow travelers. The pool is absolutely insane with a volleyball net, lounge chairs, and a great cocktails and food selection when you take a dip. The dorms can hold up to 10 and offer little privacy so be aware of that.

Costs: start at around AUD 45/night

Sky Park Bungee Jump

 Bungee jumping in the Cairns rainforest is the best thing I’ve ever done – even better than sky diving. Imagine, you look out over the rainforest before you jump into a pool of water below. And for an extra charge, you can get it filmed. There is no weight limit but there are a lot of steps to the top and no lift so it’s not very accessible for people that may struggle walking a lot. Skypark↗ has the ONLY bungee jump in all of Australia. It’s a 50-meter tall free-fall from the top of the Sky Tower. It’s truly the most exhilarating experience the east coast can offer!

Costs: $99.00

Nudey beach

No pics here, but you get the idea!

Well, if you ever wanted to go to a nude beach now’s you’re chance. Clothing here is optional here at this beach so if you’re comfortable, head on out! Try everything once is my modo!

Cairns has gorgeous rainforests and waterfalls. If those are what you are after, here are the best Cairns has to offer.

• Atherton Tablelands

• Emmagen Creek

• Crystal Cascades & Fairy Falls

• Barron Falls

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That’s all for today’s Itinerary! Huge thanks to Gemma @gemma_h_xoxox for working on this with me! We hope you enjoy! -XX