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This comprehensive journey follows Australia’s east coast from Sydney to Cairns, combining the country’s best-known highlights with a number of rewarding regional destinations. Travelling at your own pace by rental car, you’ll have the flexibility to explore while also enjoying a carefully selected programme of guided experiences.

Your journey begins in Sydney, where private tours introduce the city’s historic neighbourhoods, harbour landmarks and the Blue Mountains. From there, the route continues through the Hunter Valley, coastal towns and beach communities before reaching Queensland’s subtropical and tropical north. Along the way, you’ll visit K’gari (Fraser Island), the Whitsunday Islands, the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, alongside quieter places that offer a different perspective on Australia’s coastline.

The itinerary balances scenic drives, time in nature and opportunities to experience Australia’s beaches, wildlife, food and wine, with comfortable accommodation throughout. With a mix of independent exploration and expertly guided excursions, it is designed to provide a relaxed and well-rounded introduction to one of the world’s great coastal journeys.

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Adventure Culture Exploring Family orientated Celebration – Honeymoon/Anniversary/Birthday Luxury Relaxing Wildlife

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What To Expect

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Go ahead and dream big. Hayes & Jarvis experts are here to help you plan the ultimate escape. Tell us your vision for the trip of a lifetime and we’ll make it a reality.
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One of our destination experts will reach out to craft a completely customized itinerary. Book your personalized journey and know that our flexible policies have you covered.

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Relax and prepare for takeoff, knowing that your trip is perfectly planned and you have a personal concierge on call 24/7. Our experts are here to keep you safe and handle the details.
Pacific Coast Highway Tour

Trip Highlights

  • Enjoy the freedom of a scenic self-drive journey along one of the world’s most spectacular coastal routes
  • Experience remarkable wildlife, with opportunities to see koalas, kangaroos, dolphins & native birdlife
  • Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, including K’gari (Fraser Island) & the Daintree Rainforest
  • Snorkel amid vibrant coral reefs, explore ancient rainforests and tour coastal towns

Start your Journey

Day 1-4

Sydney

3 nights

You will be transferred from Sydney airport to your hotel in a private vehicle.

Private Essential Sydney Tour

Discover the best of Sydney during this experience. In the morning, drive through the historic Rocks precinct and learn about the origins of this great city. Visit Australia’s very first church, which was built by convicts. After, head past Macquarie Street, named after the fifth Governor of New South Wales, Lachlan Macquarie, before reaching the Botanical Gardens in the heart of the city. Stop by the country’s first Parliament House, the Mint, the Hyde Park Barracks and St Mary’s Cathedral. At Mrs Macquarie’s Chair on the waterfront area, go on a walking tour around the harbour and enjoy views of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. Stop for lunch at the posh Cruising Yacht Club of Australia before driving through the tony neighborhood of Darling Point. At the famous Bondi Beach, stroll down the esplanade like locals do. Later, as you return to the city, pass Oxford Street and Paddington with its charming Georgian and Victorian architecture.

Private Blue Mountains Luxury Diamond Day Tour

Experience the dramatic landscape of the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains. Set out in the morning to Calmsley Hill, a working farm. Here see farmyard animals as well as kangaroos, emus, wombats and koalas. After breakfast at the farm, hit the road again. As you drive through scenic Jamison Valley, your guide will tell you about the region. Continue to the Eaglehawk Lookout, a secluded point that offers a panoramic view of the ‘3 Sisters’ rock formation, which changes colour through the day. Stop for lunch at the Echoes Restaurant, perched on the edge of the Blue Mountains National Park. After, head to Govetts Leap, a popular lookout point that features a breathtaking waterfall. End the day with a visit to the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, where you can observe a variety of local flora including the ancient Wollemi Pines.

Group Tour of The Sydney Opera House

Explore Sydney’s most recognisable architectural structure, the Sydney Opera House. Meet your guide and walk among the white sails of this engineering marvel. Learn about the history and the making of this famous performing arts centre, which is also one of the busiest in the world. Enjoy the high-tech audio-visual features and learn how the legendary building came into being. An incredible 1,500 performances, ranging from opera and circus to rock and cabaret, are staged here every year, before live audiences that total approximately 1.5 million.

  • Suggested Accommodation Paradox Sydney
Day 4-5

Newcastle

1 night

Make your own way to the Sydney city centre and pick up your rental car. Drive yourself from Sydney to Newcastle in your rental car. This is a two-hour journey.

Explore Newcastle on your own

If you have the time and weather allows it, we recommend visiting Newcastle, a harbour town in New South Wales. It is known for its beaches, historic architecture, walking trails, parks and nature reserves. Explore the Bathers Way, a lovely seaside trail that connects all the town’s great beaches, such as Newcastle Beach, Merewether Beach and Nobbys Beach. Once at the beach, you can surf and swim. You can also visit Bogey Hole, an ocean bath from the town’s colonial era. If you’re an arts and culture enthusiast, the Newcastle Museum and Newcastle Art Gallery are worth checking out. There is also the military site of Fort Scratchley. As one of the country’s oldest towns, Newcastle also boasts historic architecture and local Aboriginal culture that you can explore on a walking or cycling trail. Enjoy a picnic lunch at Blackbutt Reserve, a preserved bushland that houses a number of enclosures for native wildlife like koalas, wallabies, and wombats. When it comes to food, choose from the fine dining restaurants, bars and seafood joints lining the waterfront for a taste of the local cuisine.

  • Suggested Accommodation Rydges Newcastle
Day 5-6

Hunter Valley

1 night

Drive yourself from Newcastle to Hunter Valley in your rental car. This is a two-hour journey.

Explore Hunter Valley on your own

If you have the time and the weather allows it, visit one or more of these attractions in Hunter Valley. Head to Barrington Tops National Park or Wollemi National Park for outdoor adventures and to take in the beautiful landscapes. For a peek into history, stop by the quaint village of Wollombi, with its 19th-century sandstone cottages. To relax, make your way to the swimming and surfing beaches in Newcastle. Pop into one of the sidewalk cafes along Darby Street for a bite to eat. While in the area, set off along the wine trail to learn about the making of chardonnays and cabernet sauvignons. Do not miss strolling through the picturesque Hunter Valley Gardens with its various themed sections. Sunrise hot air balloon rides over the valley are also on offer, for those interested.

  • Suggested Accommodation Rydges Resort Hunter Valley
Day 6-7

Coffs Harbour

1 night

Drive yourself from Hunter Valley to Coffs Harbour in your rental car. This is a 4.5-hour journey.

Explore Coffs Harbour on your own

If you have the time and the weather allows it, we suggest visiting one or more of these attractions in Coffs Harbour. At the marina and jetty, watch the sailboats. You could rent a jet ski for a short spin around as well. Take along a picnic lunch and make a fun day of it. To completely relax, head to the closest beach. Soak in the sun and enjoy the waves. For your meals, you will find plenty of fine dining restaurants and quaint cafes in town. Do not miss sampling the fresh seafood and local produce. End the day with a glass of fine wine sourced from one of the many wineries that dot the region.

  • Suggested Accommodation Breakfree Aanuka Beach Resort
Day 7-9

Byron Bay

2 nights

Drive yourself from Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay in your rental car. This journey will take you 3.5 hrs.

Explore Byron Bay on your own

If you have the time and the weather allows it, visit one or more of these attractions in Byron Bay. At this charming coastal town go beach hopping to enjoy the sun, surf and sand. You could also rent a bike and set off on one of the trails that will take you to gorgeous viewpoints. If it is a Thursday, check out the weekly farmers’ market with its colourful displays of fresh produce and fine ingredients. At mealtime, choose from a variety of restaurants serving Mexican, Italian and Middle Eastern flavours. There are also oyster bars and an exclusive café that offers mushroom brews. While in town, do not miss catching a sunset at Cape Byron Lighthouse.

Group Kayak Tour with Dolphin Viewing

Enjoy a kayaking tour of beautiful Byron Bay. At the appointed time, board your kayak and set off along this protected reserve on Australia’s east coast. Glide alongside bottlenose dolphins, stingrays and sea turtles that frequent the blue waters. Spot humpback whales on their migratory journey, during the season. As you glide, take in the blue skies and the spectacular coastline. Your guide will tell you about local aboriginal history and the rich diversity of the bay. Stop at a pristine beach for morning or afternoon tea before heading back.

  • Suggested Accommodation Lord Byron Resort
Day 9-11

Gold Coast/Surfers Paradise

2 nights

Drive yourself from Byron Bay for 1.5 hrs to reach the Gold Coast.

Explore the Gold Coast & Surfer’s Paradise on your own

If you have the time and the weather allows it, visit one or more of these attractions on the Gold Coast. Immerse yourself in nature at the Springbrook National Park. The walking trails here take you past rainforests, waterfalls and even a natural bridge. The area is also known for its amazing beaches. Go for a swim in the balmy Pacific waters at Surfers Paradise Beach, and ride the waves at some of the best surf spots in this part of the world. Or, just lounge on the sun-soaked sands and forget the world. Later, head to the Sky Point Observation Deck for breathtaking views of the entire coast, followed by a great meal at one of the restaurants in town.  Later, hit the nightspots that range from trendy bars to chic alfresco spaces.

Group Natural Bridge Springbrook Tour

Discover the spectacular natural attractions of the Gold Coast region. At noon, go on a short drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gondwana rainforests. Enjoy a walk around these lush jungles within Springbrook National Park, stopping to explore ancient caves. Capture beautiful images of picturesque waterfalls, and spot wildlife species such as adorable koalas as you walk. Then, head to the scenic Natural Bridge rock arch that has been carved by the impact of a waterfall gushing over a basalt cave. Soak in the stunning landscape before making your way back.

 

  • Suggested Accommodation Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise
Day 11-12

Brisbane

1 night

Drive yourself from the Gold Coast to Brisbane in your rental car. This is a 1.5-hr journey.

Private Tour of Brisbane City & Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary 

Discover the sunny city of Brisbane during this experience. Your guide will pick you up from hotel. Drive by the Brisbane River and spot Mt. Coot-tha in the distance. Stop to enjoy some tea and snacks. Then visit Australia’s largest public gallery of modern art and the Queensland Museum and Science Centre, famous its interactive exhibitions. Later, drive to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Learn about the sanctuary’s conservation efforts as you spend time with the adorable creatures that are native to Australia. Finally, enjoy a gourmet lunch before driving back to your hotel.

  • Suggested Accommodation Oaks Brisbane On Margaret Suites
Day 12-14

Noosa/Sunshine Coast

2 nights

Drive yourself from Brisbane to Noosa/ Sunshine Coast in your rental car. This is a two-hour journey.

Explore the Sunshine Coast & Noosa area on your own

If you have the time and the weather allows it, we suggest visiting one or more of these attractions on the Sunshine Coast. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean, this strip of a little more than 60 miles extends to the lush hinterland of the Glass House Mountains and Blackall Ranges, dotted with dramatic volcanic plugs. While here, lounge on the beach and surf. Do not miss visiting the rich ecosystems of Noosa National Park and Maroochy Wetlands Sanctuary. For some downtime, try some seaside yoga in Caloundra. Explore the bustling Eumundi Markets, open on Wednesdays and Saturdays, with its fresh foods, tangy preserves, local crafts and jewelry. As the sun goes down, Noosa’s nightspots come alive, particularly the trendy bars and cafes lining Hastings Street.

 

  • Suggested Accommodation Noosa Blue Resort
Day 14-14

Hervey Bay/River Heads

Drive yourself from Sunshine Coast to Hervey Bay/ River Heads in your rental car. This is a 2.5-hour journey.

Day 14-16

K'gari (Fraser Island)

2 nights

Board the ferry from Hervey Bay/ River Heads Pier to Fraser Island for your stay at Kingfisher Bay Resort.

Group Tour of K’gari (Fraser Island)

Explore the fascinating UNESCO World Heritage listed Fraser Island/ K’gari by bus. Start with a drive to the pristine, freshwater Lake McKenzie, located in the Great Sandy National Park. Swim in the clear blue waters and walk on the white sand beach, lined with heart shaped trees. At Central Station, make your way on the boardwalk along the Wanggoolba Creek that flows through the rainforest valley to the ocean. Learn about the history of timber milling in the area. Marvel at one of Fraser Island’s biological wonders – the majestic satinay trees. For a unique experience, drive along the scenic sand highway of Seventy Five Mile Beach, running along the east coast of the island. Take a break and swim in the swift Eli Creek. Discover the rusted Maheno shipwreck – a luxury liner converted to a hospital ship used during World War I. You will also see the multihued sand cliffs called Pinnacles along the coast. Notice the fascinating wind lashed mobile sandblows, which cover entire swathes of the forest as it moves across the island.

  • Suggested Accommodation Kingfisher Bay Resort K’gari
Day 16-16

Hervery Bay/River Heads

Board the ferry from Kingfisher Bay Resort Jetty on Fraser Island to Hervey Bay/ River Heads Pier.

Day 16-17

Rockhampton

1 night

Drive yourself from Hervey Bay/ River Heads for 4.5 hrs to reach Rockhampton.

Group Capricorn Explorer Tour

Explore the Capricorn Caves and surrounding areas on this adventure. After breakfast in your hotel, head to the starting point well before the tour begins and meet your guide. Collect your exploration gear like helmets and headlights and head out. As you hike off the beaten track, your guide will tell you all about the Capricorn Caves, including Deep Vault Cave and The Flowerpot. Spot local wildlife and birds, including wallabies, kangaroos and echidna. Traverse the terrain and enjoy great views before the hike ends.

  • Suggested Accommodation Empire Apartment Hotel
Day 17-19

Airlie Beach

2 nights

Drive yourself from Rockhampton to Airlie Beach in your rental car. This will take you 5.5 hrs.

Group Great Barrier Reef Snorkelling & Whitehaven Beach

Explore the attractions of the Whitsunday Islands on this full day tour. Head out from Coral Sea Marina in a state-of-the-art jet boat powered by twin Rolls Royce engines. Enjoy the ocean breeze as you zip across the water to the Outer Great Barrier Reef. Along the way, the snorkeling guide, who is also a marine biologist, will share information on the reef and what you will see. Once you reach, dive into the clear waters teeming with coral reefs and marine life. Spot different varieties of fish and other ocean-dwelling species before you surface. After, cruise to Whitehaven Beach, known for its pristine sand and turquoise water. Go on a guided walk to Hill Inlet at the northern end of the beach for great views. You could lounge in the sun for a while before it is time to head back.

Explore Airlie Beach on your own

If you have the time and the weather allows it, explore the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef at your leisure. You could take a sailing lesson at Airlie Beach and go yachting around the Whitsunday Islands. At Whitehaven Beach, enjoy a picnic on the beach and soak in the island sun. Spend a day at the waterfront parks, or head out into the water to reef diving spots if you’re feeling adventurous. When it comes to food, dine alfresco on the beach and feast on freshly caught seafood paired with local rums, ciders and craft beer.

  • Suggested Accommodation Mirage Whitsundays
Day 19-20

Mission Beach

1 night

Drive yourself from Airlie Beach to Mission Beach in your rental car. This will take 5.5 hours.

Explore Mission Beach on your own

If you have the time and the weather allows it, we recommend visiting Mission Beach, the seaside stretch at the centre of northern Queensland’s Cassowary Coast. There is something for everyone here. For divers, there are excellent spots along the reef where you can snorkel and explore the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Birders will enjoy sighting Australia’s endangered cassowary in their natural habitat. If you’re lucky, you may even spot them swimming in the local rivers. The rivers here are also great for white-water rafting. You could book a boat cruise and enjoy a picnic lunch of local prawns, crabs and other catch of the day, at a nearby island as well. You could also hike through the rainforest-clad mountains and visit vineyards and exotic fruit orchards, including bourbon vanilla farms. Don’t leave town without sampling the local fruit wines, fruit-flavoured liqueurs and creams churned at the many cellar doors and wineries.

  • Suggested Accommodation Sealords & The Elandra Resort
Day 20-22

Daintree Rainforest

2 nights

Drive in your rental car from Mission Beach for 3.5 hours to reach Daintree Rainforest.

Explore Daintree National Park on your own

If you have the time and the weather allows it, we recommend visiting Daintree National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its biodiversity. Part of the largest rainforest in the country, Daintree is also believed to be the oldest in the world, dating back more than 135 million years. Start at Mossman Gorge, and choose a scenic walking trail such as the popular Gorge Circuit or Baral Marrjanga. As you walk, stop at lookout points for views of the river, waterfalls and mountains. You could then make your way to the Daintree River and hop into a sturdy boat to go crocodile-spotting. As you glide on the water, see estuarine crocodiles, sunning themselves near dense mangroves, as well as other wildlife species. You can also catch the ferry to the sandy beaches of Cape Tribulation. Choose between the Dubuji boardwalk or Madja Botanical trail and go exploring. The Cape is also a starting point for boat tours to the Great Barrier Reef.

Private Ultimate Wildlife Experience Daintree River Cruise

Explore the UNESCO-listed Daintree River region on a leisurely cruise. At the scheduled time, make your way to the riverside. Hop into your boat and sail into the lush rainforest. This ancient forest is home to trees that are millions of years old, as well as endemic species of flora and fauna. Along the way, your guide will tell you about the biodiverse tropical ecosystem. Spot tree kangaroos and flying foxes. You may even see estuarine crocodiles sunning themselves near the mangroves or noiselessly gliding alongside the boat. Your guide will also point out colourful birds in the thick tree canopy. After cruising for about an hour, head back to shore.

  • Suggested Accommodation Heritage Lodge in the Daintree
Day 22-24

Cairns

2 nights

Drive yourself from Daintree National Park to Cairns in your rental car. This is a couple of hours journey.

Group Cruise to Green Island & the Great Barrier Reef

Discover the Green Island and the Great Barrier Reef on this swimming and snorkeling getaway. Early in the morning, sail out of Marlin Marina in Ocean Free, a sturdy schooner. Enjoy a cup of hot brew and Danish pastries as you skim on the water. Put on the provided snorkeling gear as the schooner slows down for exclusive mooring on Pinnacle Reef. Dive straight into the pristine waters with their spectacular coral reefs. Get a close look at colourful fish and marine species under the watchful eye of an expert instructor. Back onboard, tuck into a smorgasbord of assorted meats and seafood. After, explore Green Island and listen to an interesting reef talk by a marine interpreter. Finally, nibble on snacks paired with a complimentary glass of wine as you sail back.

Back in Cairns, make your own way to Cairns airport and drop off your rental car.

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Plan Your Dream Trip

Asia
Bali China Cambodia India Indonesia Japan Laos Malaysia Singapore South Korea Sri Lanka Thailand Vietnam
Africa
Botswana Kenya Morocco Mozambique Namibia Rwanda South Africa Tanzania Uganda Zambia Zimbabwe
Europe
Iceland
Indian Ocean
Maldives Mauritius Seychelles
North America
Alaska Canada Hawaii USA
Central America
Costa Rica Mexico Panama
Oceania
Australia New Zealand
South America
Argentina Brazil Chile Colombia Ecuador & Galapagos Peru
Middle East
Oman United Arab Emirates Dubai Abu Dhabi
Polar Regions
The Arctic Antarctica
Central Asia
Kyrgyzstan Uzbekistan
Adventure Culture Exploring Family orientated Celebration – Honeymoon/Anniversary/Birthday Luxury Relaxing Wildlife

Your info is secure and never shared with 3rd parties.

Plan Your Dream Trip

Thank You

We’ll get back to you soon. To secure an exclusive limited-time offer for your trip, call 020 8106 2403 now to uncover our best-kept secret deals!

What To Expect

.st0{fill:#161717}

Dream Carefree

Go ahead and dream big. Hayes & Jarvis experts are here to help you plan the ultimate escape. Tell us your vision for the trip of a lifetime and we’ll make it a reality.
.st0{fill:#161717}

Plan Carefree

One of our destination experts will reach out to craft a completely customized itinerary. Book your personalized journey and know that our flexible policies have you covered.

Travel Carefree

Relax and prepare for takeoff, knowing that your trip is perfectly planned and you have a personal concierge on call 24/7. Our experts are here to keep you safe and handle the details.

Includes

  • Meals and accommodations as specified in the itinerary
  • Transportation services as specified in the itinerary
  • Any excursions and activities as specified in the itinerary
  • Your Trip Coordination Team: Dedicated support throughout your journey, with a primary, personal point of contact. Plus, in case of emergencies while you’re traveling, our trip coordination team are available 24/7 by phone

Excludes

  • Mandatory local charges such as tourist taxes, resort fees, and any other charges payable locally
  • Visa fees
  • Travel, health, and cancellation insurance
  • International airfare

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