East Coast Australia: Sydney, Gold Coast, and Port Douglas

Fly to the famous Gold Coast for four nights of sun and fun. Stay in Surfers Paradise, where golden beaches meet a vibrant town filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Spend a day relaxing on the beach or swimming in the warm waters, or take a surfing lesson to embrace the local culture.

The Gold Coast is also home to Australia’s most famous theme parks, like Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, and Dreamworld. For a more serene experience, head inland to explore the natural beauty of the Gold Coast Hinterland, including Lamington National Park and its breathtaking rainforest walks.

Don’t miss the chance to visit Burleigh Heads for its famous point break surf and the Burleigh Head National Park coastal walk, offering panoramic views of the coastline. End your days with a stroll along Cavill Avenue, the bustling heart of Surfers Paradise, where you can enjoy dining, nightlife, and entertainment.

Fly to tropical Port Douglas, where you’ll spend six nights surrounded by natural beauty. Port Douglas is the gateway to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Spend your days exploring these incredible ecosystems with reef snorkelling tours, rainforest walks, and wildlife-spotting adventures.

Take a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef, where you can snorkel or dive among vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life. For a change of pace, visit the Daintree Rainforest, one of the world’s oldest rainforests. Here, you can take a guided walk or a river cruise, spotting wildlife like crocodiles, cassowaries, and exotic birds.

In Port Douglas itself, enjoy the laid-back tropical vibe with visits to Four Mile Beach, where you can relax on the golden sands or swim in the warm waters. Stroll through the Port Douglas Sunday Markets to discover local arts, crafts, and fresh produce. For a sunset experience, visit the Flagstaff Hill Lookout, offering breathtaking views over the Coral Sea.

The combination of reef, rainforest, and relaxing beach days makes Port Douglas the perfect tropical escape to end your East Coast adventure.

This two-week journey along Australia’s East Coast combines the urban excitement of Sydney, the beach culture and fun of the Gold Coast, and the tropical paradise of Port Douglas. Whether you're exploring iconic landmarks, surfing along the coast, or snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, this itinerary offers a rich and diverse experience of Australia’s top destinations.