The Ultimate Australia Travel Guide - East Coast Itinerary

One of the countries I have fallen in love with is Australia—the very first place I went backpacking and the place I now call my (second) home. It's a huge country, so some planning is a good idea to make the most of it! Here are my top places to visit in Australia...

Melbourne

This city is known for its coffee, art, music, and down-to-earth energy. There's plenty to do here, so if you're a lover of the outdoors, take a trip to the Great Ocean Road, one of Australia's most iconic road trips, or catch a game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and enjoy Aussie the atmosphere! Make sure you visit the National Gallery of Victoria and if the weather's good - head to the beach to soak up the sun and splash in the ocean.

Sydney

It’s hard to visit Australia without spending some time in this iconic city. From the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge to Bondi Beach, there’s so much to see. Whether you’re a fan of coastal walks like the Bondi to Coogee trail or just want to enjoy the city life, Sydney’s got it covered. If you love filling your lungs with mountain fresh air, the Blue Mountains is a must, just a couple of hours outside the city. You’ll find breathtaking views, cool cliffs, and even waterfalls.

Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a cool, chilled-out bohemian spot. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, surf, or take a yoga class. A must-do here is hiking up to Cape Byron for sunrise – it’s the easternmost point of Australia, and the views are beautiful. There’s something about Byron that makes it feel like a permanent holiday destination, and it’s hard not to fall in love with the laid-back energy.

Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is famous for its beaches and surf culture. Whether you’re catching the waves or relaxing at a quieter spot like Burleigh Heads, there’s something for everyone. If you head inland, you’ll find beautiful national parks and rainforests, so there’s a great mix of beach, nature, and adventure.

Brisbane

A city I called home for 7 months in 2022, Brisbane will always have a place in my heart. Spend a few days here and head to West End or Eat Street to grab a bite, or catch the ferry across the river and hang out at Southbank. If you fancy a night out, make sure you head to Fortitude Valley and enjoy a snack pack on the way home! Why not catch the sunset at Mount Coot-tha as well for perfect views of the city?

K'Gari (Formerly Fraser Island)

K'gari, also known as Fraser Island, is the world’s largest sand island and an adventure lover’s dream. You can take a 4x4 drive along the beaches, swim in beautiful freshwater Lake McKenzie, and explore the rainforests. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site with incredible wildlife, so whether you’re camping or just visiting for the day, K'gari is a must-see.

Airlie Beach/Whitsunday Islands

The Whitsundays hold a special place in my heart! I used to live and work here on a sailboat, and I can honestly say it’s one of the most beautiful places in the world. The Whitsunday islands are surrounded by clear blue waters and soft sandy beaches – including the famous Whitehaven Beach. Sailing through these turquoise waters was a dream, and I highly recommend adding this to your list.

Mission Beach

Mission Beach is the ideal spot to chase a thrill or sit back and relax - whatever you prefer! This is where I did my skydive, landing right on the beach! With views of the Great Barrier Reef and the jungle, there's nowhere better to skydive! You can also take a trip to Tulley River and go white water river rafting - there's a lot of fun to have.

Cairns

Finally, Cairns is the heart of the Great Barrier Reef - one of the Seven Wonders Of The World. If you love snorkelling or diving, this is the place to be. Even if you’re not keen on diving, there are boat trips that let you experience the sheer beauty of the reef up close. Pro tip: Dry season from May to October is the best time to visit.

So there you have it - my recommendations for the best places to visit on the East Coast of Australia! It's a big country so there are plenty more places to visit such as Uluru and Western Australia. I hope you found this blog useful and enjoy your visit. If you have any questions then leave a comment below and I'll get back to you!