Customer Friendly Itineraries

Sydney, Australia’s most iconic city, is a vibrant hub of culture, beauty, and history. Home to nearly 20% of the country's population, it’s also Australia’s largest city. Perched along the stunning east coast, Sydney boasts an enviable mix of world-famous landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, alongside pristine white-sand beaches like Bondi and Manly. With a rich tapestry of history, art, and diverse culinary delights, Sydney offers something for every traveller, from sun-seekers and food lovers to adventure enthusiasts.

You will be met at the Sydney Airport by the driver and transferred to your Sydney accommodation.

Often mistaken as Australia's capital city, Sydney is a vibrant coastal city with plenty to see and do. Starting in Circular Quay you will catch your first views of the two big icons, Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. From here you can catch one of the quintessential harbour ferries over to Manly Beach or Taronga Zoo, catching a glimpse of Kirribilli House, the Prime Minister's official Sydney residence, on the way over. Kirribilli is also home to one of Sydney's oldest markets at the Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre twice a month. It is known for its stalls of vintage clothing, arts, delicious street food and its lively community atmosphere - so if you are in town on a market day, you can't miss it. For a relaxing end to your day of exploration, your dinner options are aplenty. From high-end restaurants around Circular Quay that offer amazing views, to the Chinatown food courts and a broad range of eateries at Barangaroo, you will be spoiled for choice.

Experience the vastness of Sydney Harbour with its many secluded beaches and spectacular sandstone cliffs. Visit one of Sydney Harbour National Park’s protected Islands; a hidden gem right in the middle of the harbour and discover natural bushland, once common around Sydney. Listen to commentary on the history of Sydney Harbour as well as details of the marine life that inhabits its sandy beaches, grassy sea beds and rocky shores. Enjoy a buffet-style Aussie BBQ lunch onboard including salad and vegetables - and all this with great views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Experience the breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Sydney, whilst scaling the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge on BridgeClimb’s original Climb experience. Feel on top of the world as you journey along the upper arch to the peak of an Australian icon, soaking in the stories from your expert Climb Leader and the sights of the Harbour and the City skyline that surround you.

Experience the excitement of Australia’s famous Harbour City aboard the Big Bus Sydney and Bondi Beach open-top double-decker buses. This tour is the perfect introduction to Sydney, showcasing iconic landmarks such as the impressive Sydney Harbour Bridge, the magnificent Sydney Opera House, and the sparkling waters of Sydney and Darling Harbour. Along the way, you’ll pass vibrant shops, restaurants, and attractions nestled among Colonial, Victorian, and modern architecture.

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range or ask our team for a suggestion. From compact economy to prestige SUVs. First time driving in Australia? Check out this helpful guide.

After departing Sydney through the leafy northern suburbs, take the scenic route to the Central Coast. A popular stop on the way is the Australian Reptile Park, where you can see an array of local animals and even feed a kangaroo or cuddle a koala.
Continuing along the highway, you should take some time to explore the area with towns like Terrigal, Avoca Beach and The Entrance which are home to long sandy beaches, popular surf breaks, and great cafes and restaurants.
Continue north, skirting Lake Macquarie, Australia's largest coastal saltwater lake and pass Newcastle, the second biggest city in NSW, before arriving at Port Stephens.

With 26 sandy beaches to explore, an idyllic blue bay, and a backdrop of giant sand dunes & boasting one of Australia's highest populations of bottlenose dolphins, Port Stephens is anyone's paradise. The area has many sheltered coves perfect for families and has a variety of activities. Go for a swim with the dolphins or enjoy diving, surfing or snorkelling. Horse or camel ride down the beach, taste the local fresh caught seafood or get up close and personal to wildlife.
Ever wondered what it's like to touch a shark or cuddle a ray? That's possible too. Wander the many bush walks or get an adrenalin rush quad biking or sand boarding down the towering Stockton Sand Dunes. The dunes stand guard to the Worimi Conservation lands and are the Southern Hemisphere's largest moving coastal dunes.

Port Stephens is famous for its beautiful beaches, coastal walks, national parks, resident wild dolphins, and pristine waters. There are 26 sandy beaches, some sheltered in bays that are perfect for families as well as swimming, snorkelling and kayaking. The towering Stockton sand dunes are great for sandboarding, quad biking and horseriding or visit the Koala Sanctuary and have lunch with the koalas! 

Port Stephens is home to over 160 resident bottlenose dolphins, and is known as the Dolphin Capital of Australia! These dolphin-watching tours have a high success rate of dolphin sightings and both inside and outside viewing areas. The skipper gives entertaining commentary about these incredible creatures throughout the cruise. Includes morning or afternoon tea depending on your departure time.

Unlike the usual aquarium viewing through glass, at Irukandji you can meet the wildlife, pet them, feed them and even share the water with them! Wade with into the shallow water of the tropical lagoon in bare feet, being surrounded by many curious and friendly sharks & rays. Wearing your own clothes, you will mostly stay dry with only your feet and legs becoming wet. Stepping into the water with the animals, is a whole new level of excitement, fear and admiration.

Live the adventure that promises you a Quad Riding experience like no other with Sand Dune Adventures. Experience the magnificence of the Worimi Sand Dunes on Stockton Beach, riding safely from bush to beach with expert guides. This one-hour quad bike ride takes in the wonders of the highest sand dunes in the southern hemisphere, the glorious views of the sweeping coastline and a chance to learn about the history of the land.

Today's drive begins by following the bay around to the north to rejoin the Pacific Highway and cross the Karuah River. Your drive to Port Macquarie is along the Legendary Pacific Coast Drive, one of the state's most beautiful routes. If you aren't in a rush and feel like a detour to explore more of the coast, then you will be rewarded by a stop in Forster. Seafood lovers can relax here over a lazy lunch of freshly oysters while overlooking the water. Port Macquarie is your destination for the day and is home to 17 beaches, beautiful scenic walks, and the Koala Hospital. If time allows, we recommend the 9km Coastal Walk from town to Lighthouse Beach.

Nestled along the stunning coastline of New South Wales, Port Macquarie is a vibrant seaside town known for its beautiful beaches, lush hinterlands, and rich history. This coastal gem offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure. Port Macquarie boasts a variety of pristine beaches, ideal for swimming, surfing, and soaking up the sun. Nature lovers can explore the nearby coastal walks, including the famous Coastal Walk, which offers breathtaking views of the ocean and chances to spot whales during migration season. The town is also home to the Koala Hospital, where visitors can learn about conservation efforts and see koalas up close.
For history enthusiasts, Port Macquarie’s heritage is on display at sites like the Historic Courthouse and the Port Macquarie Museum, which showcase the town’s colonial past. The vibrant town center offers a range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

The Port Macquarie Koala Hospital was established in 1973 and is a licensed wildlife rehabilitation facility. The Hospital is a popular tourist attraction which welcomes thousands of national and international visitors every year. The Hospital is also a scientific research, training and education centre.
The Koala Hospital consists of exhibit enclosures, a treatment clinic, intensive care units and rehabilitation yards, many of which have trees for koalas to learn to climb as part of the rehabilitation process. There is also a Koalaseum - a museum for Koalas which provides information on koala evolution and biology and interactive displays so visitors can touch koala fur or look down a microscope at koala poos (scat).
Admission is free, so we recommend bringing some cash to donate to their valuable conservation work.

From Port Macquarie, head north on Pacific Highway. Around 30 minutes into your journey, you will pass the town of Kempsey. If you are a country music fan or want to learn about country music in Australia, you can stop in at the Slim Dusty Centre. Slim was a country music icon in Australia, and the museum covers his life, as well as costumes, images of Australian life and its people, as well as the music of some of Australia’s finest musicians. Take a detour to the beautiful, relaxed riverside town of Bellingen and stop for a coffee in one of its lovely cafes, or a beer at the local brewery. From here you can also check out the Promised Lands on the Never Never River, a hidden gem with stunningly crystal-clear waters that you can swim in. Head a little further up the B78 highway to take a walk through the breathtaking Dorrigo National Park, and cool off at Dangar Falls just outside of the Dorrigo township.
From here, continue up the Pacific Highway onto Coffs Harbour. Home to the iconic Big Banana, Australia's first "big thing" built back in 1964. Stop at the cafe for a coffee or banana split, or head into town to take a stroll on the Coffs Harbour Jetty.

Coffs Harbour is a city on the north coast of New South Wales, Australia. It’s known for its beaches, the Big Banana Monument and the amusement park. In the waters off Coffs Harbour Marina is the Solitary Islands Marine Park, home to abundant wildlife, seasonal whales and coral reefs. Just east is the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve, with its large population of wedge-tailed shearwater birds and learning centre.

This stand-up paddle tour takes guests on a cultural journey showcasing the local Gumbaynggirr language, bush tucker and Dreaming stories while paddling through the unspoilt Solitary Islands Marine Park. Your tour guides, who are all Gumbaynggirr or Aboriginal people who have strong ties to Gumbaynggirr country, are direct descendants of the world's first stand-up paddlers. Throughout your tour, they will teach you about local Gumbaynggirr stories, and language, and even help you find bush delicacies that you can sample, including lemon myrtle, yams and native sarsaparilla.

From Coffs Harbour, snake along the coast for 120km until you reach signs for Yamba. This sleepy hamlet has beaches that rival those of Byron Bay but remain a little more low-profile. Take a stroll on one of the beautiful beaches, or head to the Pacific Hotel for some great views.
From Yamba, return to the Pacific Highway and continue to head north. If you want an opportunity to see another Australian "big thing", take a short detour into Ballina to see the Big Prawn.
From here, continue through to Byron Bay, famous for surfers, social media influences, and health retreats. Stop off at the Byron Bay Lighthouse, perched on Australia's easternmost point. The final part of your journey from Byron Bay to the Gold Coast will see you crossing state lines from New South Wales to Queensland.
Travel past Coolangatta, a surf and diving mecca revered for its unpretentious culture and bountiful array of aquatic life and continue onto Surfers Paradise, famed for its white-sand beaches, theme parks, and shopping.

Surfers Paradise is one of Australia's most iconic family holiday destinations, located on the bustling Gold Coast of Queensland. As the main hub of the Gold Coast, this surfside suburb is renowned for its main strip of skyscrapers, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife juxtaposed with the surrounding pristine coastline and reliable swell. At just under 333 metres tall, the Q1 building in Surfers Paradise is one of the tallest buildings around the globe. The SkyPoint Observation deck atop the skyscraper is a must-do for anyone who appreciates a 360-degree view encompassing stunning coastline and forested inland. The suburb offers an array of activities, ranging from surf lessons to mini golf courses, rooftop bars, and a 7D cinema.

Famed for its beaches, including the world-renowned Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast has plenty to offer away from the sand and sea. In order to make the most of your free day make sure you include some of the following:
Beach hop between Coolangatta and Currumbin or take a surf lesson at Surf In Paradise from The Spit near Main Beach. Consider heading over to Wave Break Island with Queensland Scuba Diving and experience the fantastic snorkeling and diving. For the more experienced surfers, head to Burleigh Heads. This beach often has whales from April to September.
If thrills are what you are after, head to any one of Gold Coast's world-class theme parks. Holoverse, Wet 'n' Wild, Sea World, Infinity Attraction and Topgolf Gold Coast are just a few.
For those looking for wildlife encounters, look no further than Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. This iconic park gives its visitors the opportunity to wander through open animal enclosures, feed kangaroos and befriend cuddly koalas. It's newest precinct is home to lemurs, cotton-top tamarins, red pandas, capybaras, and exotic birds and reptiles. As a non-profit organisation, all proceeds are put back into wildlife and conservation programs.
Feeling a bit peckish? Rick Shores and the Fish House are popular spots at Burleigh Heads for lunch and dinner. If you're hoping for a craft beer experience, have a pint of one of the award-winning beers from Burleigh Brewing Company, Black Hops, Fortitude Brewing Co., Balter or Lost Palms Brewing Company.

Experience an exciting nighttime tour with stargazing, delicious dessert at a local restaurant and a fully guided rainforest walk to the waterfall. This is a great tour for you to discover the bio-network of rainforests and to experience nocturnal wildlife spotting. Journey to the peaceful and picturesque Gold Coast hinterland. A local mountain-top restaurant awaits you to serve tea, coffee or hot chocolate accompanied by a selection of delicious cakes.
With the knowledge of your guide, discover the lush forests of Tamborine National Park and spot native nocturnal wildlife. Everyone has a flashlight to light the walkway. At the end of the trail emerges Curtis Falls, a subtropical waterfall and habitat to the stars of the show, the ever-fascinating, glow worms.

Learn to surf at a beautiful beach on the Gold Coast, only 10 minutes from Surfer's Paradise. Perfect for beginners with a protected beach and the lowest student-to-coach ratios on the Gold Coast, you are sure to have a fun experience and are guaranteed to stand in your first lesson.

Discover the best of the Gold Coast on the Gold Coast City Tour & River Cruise with Aquaduck Gold Coast, a unique experience that combines the thrill of an amphibious vehicle adventure with a serene river cruise. This exciting tour offers a fantastic way to explore the stunning city and its waterways.
Your journey begins aboard the iconic Aquaduck, a purpose-built vehicle that transitions seamlessly from land to water. First, enjoy a city tour, where you'll be guided through the vibrant streets of the Gold Coast, passing by popular landmarks, beautiful beaches, and iconic attractions. Learn about the area's history, culture, and development from your expert guide, who shares fascinating insights along the way. Then, the Aquaduck takes to the water, launching into the calm waters of the Broadwater for a relaxing river cruise. As you glide along the river, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the city's skyline, luxurious waterfront homes, and lush parks, while your guide provides commentary on the local environment and wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for native birds, marine life, and other coastal creatures.

The drive today is fairly straightforward, as you will drive along the M1 highway for most of your journey, bypassing the main city of Brisbane and continuing past the Brisbane Airport. Continue to head north and travel through the Glass House Mountains. Passing through Beerburrum State Forest you can take a detour to Beerwah, home of Steve Irwin's Australia Zoo, where you can see over one hundred different species including crocodiles, Tasmanian devils, koalas, wombats and dingoes.
Continuing north through the Sunshine Coast, you will turn towards the coast at Eumundi - if you are driving through on a Wednesday or Saturday morning, stop in at the Eumundi markets for local food, arts and crafts.
From Eumundi, it's just 25 minutes to your destination, the beautiful coastal town of Noosa.

Noosa is nestled on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast and is surrounded by beautiful beaches, lakes, and the dense hinterland of Noosa National Park. The name 'Noosa' came from the Aboriginal Kabi word meaning "shade" or "shadows", which is thought to be a reference to the respite from the sun offered by the tall forests in the area.
Noosa has an array of outdoor activities for all ages to choose from. Here, you can learn to surf or have a go at stand-up paddleboarding; go kayaking in the Noosa Everglades or join a sunset cruise along the river. It is also home to world-class golf courses, exquisite day spas, shopping and enticing cuisine.

Adventure Tour to Fraser Island takes you into the best areas of this environmentally sensitive region. You will get the chance to discover its precious eco-systems, abundant wildlife and natural paradise. Seemingly endless golden beaches encompass towering forests, pristine rainforests, mosaic coloured sands, crystal clear freshwater lakes, gurgling red streams and prehistoric ferns.

Noosa, located on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, is a haven for beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and foodies. Relax on Noosa Main Beach, perfect for swimming and paddleboarding, or explore quieter spots like Little Cove and Tea Tree Bay. Take in breathtaking coastal views and spot wildlife like dolphins and koalas on the scenic trails of Noosa National Park, with the Coastal Walk to Hell’s Gates being a standout. For water adventures, paddleboard along the Noosa River or explore the stunning Noosa Everglades, one of only two in the world. Hastings Street offers boutique shopping, art galleries, and dining options ranging from beachfront cafes to fine restaurants. Explore further to the Noosa Hinterland or nearby attractions like Australia Zoo for even more adventure.

Hear the story of how ginger is grown, harvested and turned into a delicious range of Buderim Ginger products. Finish the tour with a tasting and discover some of the best ginger in the world. This 40-minute tour takes you through the Buderim Ginger factory and gives you a behind-the-scenes insight into Ginger production.

This Sunshine Coast Hinterland One-Day Tour combines the stunning scenery of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland with some of the region’s finest local produce. Taste your way through the region with a local cheese tasting in Maleny, a fabulous 2-Course lunch, cellar door wine tasting a visit to the quaint Hinterland village of Montville, and finally a touch of luxury with a sample box of handmade Belgian Chocolate.

Cruise from Noosa to Brisbane in under 2 hours on the M1 or take the scenic route!  Detour to the world-famous Australia Zoo in Beerwah for crocs, koalas & animal encounters! Wind your way through the Maleny and Montville hills for breathtaking views of the Glass House Mountains (including the iconic One Tree Hill). Sample Sunshine Coast's finest brews at local breweries or go for a swim at Kondalilla Falls! Alternatively, explore the vibrant Eumundi Markets (Wednesdays & Saturdays) for local crafts & treats before reaching Brisbane's heart.

Experience the best of Brisbane’s natural beauty and wildlife with a Return River Cruise combined with admission to the renowned Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Begin your journey with a scenic river cruise along the Brisbane River, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline, the lush parklands, and iconic landmarks like the Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point Cliffs. The leisurely cruise is a perfect way to relax and soak in the sights while enjoying informative commentary about Brisbane’s history and river life.
Upon reaching the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, enjoy direct access to one of the world’s largest and most beloved koala conservation facilities. Wander through lush, expansive grounds and get close to a wide range of Australian wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, wombats, and more. Hold a koala for a memorable photo or hand-feed kangaroos in their natural habitat. The sanctuary also offers a variety of animal encounters and educational presentations, making it a fantastic experience for animal lovers of all ages. Enjoy 3 hours exploring Lone Pine, before re-joining the cruise for a relaxing return journey on the river back to the city.

Unlock a full day of wildlife adventure with the Australia Zoo One Day Admission Pass. Set across 110 acres, this iconic zoo, made famous by the late Steve Irwin, offers an unforgettable experience with up-close encounters with Australia’s most iconic animals. Explore the expansive grounds, where you’ll meet koalas, kangaroos, wombats, and the famous crocodiles in their natural habitats. Enjoy thrilling shows like the Wildlife Warriors demonstration, where saltwater crocodiles leap from the water’s edge in a spectacular display. Visit the Wildlife Hospital, one of the busiest in the world, and witness firsthand the vital care given to endangered animals. Discover the Tiger Temple, home to majestic Sumatran and Bengal tigers, and stroll through Queensland’s only multi-species African exhibit. With a variety of live presentations, animal encounters, and opportunities to learn about conservation efforts, the Australia Zoo One Day Admission Pass offers a full day of fun and education. 

Explore more of Brisbane before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

The cost for this flight is additional to your tour, we can book this flight for you.

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range or ask our team for a suggestion. From compact economy to prestige SUVs. First time driving in Australia? Check out this helpful guide.

The best route north is the Captain Cook Highway (State Route 44). This drive offers countless opportunities to stop and admire the breathtaking views or walk along the beach. Just 20 minutes north of Cairns is Smithfield, home to the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway where you can take a bird's eye view of the world's oldest continually surviving tropical rainforest, or divert a little further to Kuranda for the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway.
Continue north through Palm Cove and onto Port Douglas, stopping on the way at Rex Lookout for a 180-degree view over the Coral Sea, with views to Double Island to the south. Stretch your legs on Four Mile Beach and grab some lunch or a coffee before continuing your drive. Back on the highway, you will pass through Mossman as you head north on your journey into the Daintree Rainforest.

The world's oldest rainforest by an impressive 10 million years, surviving cataclysmic events that wiped out the dinosaurs, the Daintree exudes ancient energy to those who visit. The traditional custodians of the area, the Kuku Yulanji, have been living in complete harmony with their environment for 50,000 years. Encompassing approximately 1200 square kilometres stretching from the Daintree River to the sea's edge, north to Cooktown and west to the Great Divide, this World Heritage-listed area is the single largest block of tropical rainforest in Australia. With creeping vines, emerald tree canopies and winding rivers below, there are memorable experiences to be gained for all. One of the most well-known natural features of the Daintree is Mossman Gorge, promising breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife and lush rainforest steeped in history and legends that have been passed down through generations. Whether you are seeking luxury, immersive cultural experiences, or something more adventurous, the Daintree has it all.

Travel through Kuku Yalanji country, led by your local Aboriginal guide and learn about the culturally significant sights and local attractions between Port Douglas and Cape Tribulation including the World Heritage Daintree rainforest. Hear about the unique relationships the Kuku Yalanji people still have with their land and experience these diverse environments. Walk through the world’s oldest living rainforest, see the majestic Daintree River, and reach Cape Tribulation: where the rainforest meets the reef, explore coastal habitats learning about the environment, different foods and medicines utilised from nature, sample some bush tucker, swim at one of the pristine freshwater streams in the area before returning to your accommodation.

Departing the Daintree you may wish to stop at Jindalba Boardwalk circuit for a short walk through the lush forest. Cross the Daintree River on the ferry and head south along Mossman-Daintree Road. Passing through the town of Mossman, you can take a detour to Mossman Gorge for a self-guided walk through this famous wilderness area. This is also a good opportunity to stop for lunch at the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre. From here it is just a 20-minute drive to the beautiful resort town of Port Douglas.

Port Douglas is a relaxed, tropical sea-side village, where the reef meets the rainforest. A perfect getaway location, it features a great range of restaurants, bars and boutique shopping. Relax by the beach or take a tour of some of Australia's iconic natural wonders, the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef and the World's oldest living rainforest, the Daintree. Go snorkelling or diving, adventure on a mountain bike tour or learn about Indigenous country and culture through immersive experiences.

Immersed in the northern frontier of the Great Barrier Reef this is the perfect snorkelling and sailing adventure for a conservation-minded visitor. Ideally suited to those who can swim and have a spirit of fun and adventure. Enjoy an inspiring full-day experience at the stunning Mackay Coral Cay on the Great Barrier Reef in the most sustainable way, including guided snorkelling and a glass-bottomed boat tour.

Port Douglas is a chic, yet relaxed seaside village with a plethora of restaurants and bars, as well as fantastic boutique shopping. The village is also the ideal base to explore three of Australia's most iconic natural attractions - the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest, and Cape Tribulation with an abundance of tours and day trips available. 
Take a day to soak up the beauty, charm, and vibrant atmosphere of Port Douglas at your own pace. Wander along the golden sands of Four Mile Beach, where you can relax, swim, or enjoy a scenic walk with panoramic ocean views. Visit the lively Macrossan Street for boutique shopping, local art galleries, and alfresco dining at some of the region’s finest cafes and restaurants. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, the Wildlife Habitat provides an opportunity to meet native Australian animals, including koalas, kangaroos, and cassowaries, in an immersive environment.  For those seeking adventure, embark on a snorkelling or diving trip to the Great Barrier Reef, where you’ll witness the world’s most vibrant marine ecosystem up close. Alternatively, take a scenic drive to the Daintree Rainforest for a guided tour, river cruise, or self-guided exploration of its ancient landscapes. If relaxation is what you’re after, indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment or enjoy a leisurely sunset sail on the Coral Sea.
Port Douglas offers a blend of natural beauty, luxury, and laid-back charm, making it the perfect destination to explore at your leisure. 

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is one of the longest continually operating tourist attractions in Australia. The business began in 1934 as a roadhouse for weary motorists. Legend has it the original owner Pop Evans entertained motorists by feeding Charlie the crocodile, while scones cooked in the woodstove. Eight decades later, Hartley’s world-famous Crocodile Attack Show is as popular as ever with daily presentations that strike a perfect balance between entertainment and education.

This short 70km drive will take you down the Captain Cook Highway (State Route 44) to the beautiful city of Cairns. Consider picking up some groceries in Port Douglas and enjoy a picnic on one of the many stunning beaches along your drive. Pebbly Beach, located approximately 15km south of Port Douglas is a bit of a deviation from the standard sandy beaches of the tropical north but is beautiful nonetheless. As the name suggests, the beach is covered with smooth, tiny stones and is popular among motorists to stop and explore.
Your next stop on your drive south will be Rex Lookout, with panoramic views of the Coral Sea and views of Double Island to the south.
Further south, you will reach the beautiful coastal village of Palm Cove. Spend some time wandering the paperbark-lined streets dotted with boutique shops, artisan cafes and restaurants. Finally, pass through Smithfield before getting off the highway and heading into Cairns.

Return your rental vehicle to Cairns Airport terminal before checking in for your flight.

The cost for this flight is additional to your tour. Please contact your Sales Consultant if you would like us to book this flight for you at an additional cost. 

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range or ask our team for a suggestion. From compact economy to prestige SUVs. First time driving in Australia? Check out this helpful guide.

Melbourne is the coastal capital of the state of Victoria. At the city's centre is the modern Federation Square development, with shopping, bars, and restaurants by the Yarra River. In the Southbank area, the Melbourne Arts Precinct is the site of Arts Centre Melbourne and the National Gallery of Victoria, with modern and Indigenous Australian art. As the cultural capital of Australia, Melbourne has a hidden gem around every corner - Rich history, bustling laneways, rooftop bars and world-class restaurants are just the beginning!

Experience the delights of Victoria’s wine country on this Yarra Valley wine tour from Melbourne. With an informative wine guide who has extensive wine industry experience, you’ll visit four popular wineries: Balgownie Estate, Steels Gate Winery, Greenstone Vineyards, and Yering Farm. Enjoy plenty of tastings as well as a winery lunch while you learn about winemaking in Australia and admire the picturesque landscapes.

Begin your journey by heading south to the picturesque town of Torquay, recognized as the surfing capital of Australia, thanks to the famous Bells Beach. Follow the coast from through Anglesea to Lorne, here we recommended a short detour to Erskine Falls. You can park close to the 30 metre cascading waterfall, or take a walk through the lush rainforest to stretch your legs.

Lorne is nestled between Loutit Bay and the Otway National Park, bringing the beach and the bush together at your doorstep. It's an ideal spot to stop and enjoy on your journey, there is a great range of places to eat and drink, shop and explore, with 10 waterfalls within 10km of the town.
The Great Ocean Road Heritage Centre located in Lorne's Visitor Complex showcases the historical story of the road carved in rock, a gruelling feat by returned servicemen of World War 1.
During the whale watching season (from May to September), Lorne is a great spot to capture a glimpse of these gentle giants. It is also the perfect spot for surfers with beginner waves at Lorne Beach, a more advanced break at Cathedral Rock in the Great Otway National Park and several other nearby breaks.

Follow the Great Ocean Road along the coastline, past Apollo Bay and the Great Otway National Park to the iconic 12 Apostles, the most famous landmark on the Great Ocean Road. To walk out and view these formations you can park at the carpark and follow the paved path to the lookout, or to take some time and stretch your legs take the path down Gibson's steps to the beach. Descending down these 86 stairs carved into the cliff face, and reaching the beach you are treated to a closeup view of these incredible rock formations.
From here, it's just a short drive to your destination for the night, Port Campbell. This small coastal town is home to cafes and restaurants with views of the beach, as well as vibrant shops and galleries to explore. Finish your day with a walk out to the Port Campbell Jetty and watch the waves crashing against the limestone cliffs.

Port Campbell is a popular tourist destination primarily because it is so closely surrounded by some of the Great Ocean Road's most famous and scenic coastal attractions.
A few minute's drive away is the rocky (but broken) platform of London Bridge, the Loch Ard Gorge, Gibsons Steps, and the most celebrated of all Great Ocean Road attractions, the 12 Apostles. Originally named "The Sow & Piglets", the Twelve Apostles are a series of off-shore limestone stacks. Wind and sea erosion continually batter them, with some having collapsed over the years, leaving 8 standing now.
A colourful and lively seaside village on the lands of the Eastern Maar People, Port Campbell is home to restaurants and cafes with views of the beach, bakeries selling homemade goodies, and plenty of vibrant shops and galleries to explore. Sheltered by cliffs and Norfolk pines, the town has the atmosphere of a haven on the edge of wild nature. Finish the day with a walk out to the Port Campbell Jetty and watch the waves crashing against the limestone cliffs.

Join a thrilling guided walk through the stunning landscapes of the Otways, where lush tree fern gullies, towering eucalypt woodlands, and breathtaking ocean views await. Led by an expert conservationist guide, you’ll uncover the fascinating secrets of the plants and animals that thrive in this incredible region. Each tour offers a unique opportunity to encounter Australia’s wildlife in their natural habitat, including almost guaranteed sightings of koalas. With a bit of luck, you might also spot potoroos, bandicoots, and other amazing Australian animals that call Wildlife Wonders home. Perfect for nature lovers, this adventure promises an unforgettable connection to the wonders of the natural world.

Today you will head to Melbourne. Follow Cobden-Port Campbell Rd to Camperdown, where you will reach the junction for the Princes Highway (A1). Head east and the highway becomes the M1 Motorway as you pass Geelong and the Avalon Airport on your way into Melbourne.

The Melbourne hidden bar culture is a unique part of Australia’s cultural capital. The difficult thing is just that – they’re hidden! This city makes you work to find its best bits, which is why you’ll find some of the best bars behind other venues, underneath laneways, or tucked into repurposed spaces.
Join an experienced guide and uncover four of these fascinating venues in one afternoon, and learn what makes each one special over a drink, or four. Speak with talented bartenders during this small-group experience, making sure to chat with them about what kinds of drinks you like to personalise your Melbourne Hidden Bars Tour even more.

Take in breathtaking 360-degree views of Melbourne from the Melbourne Skydeck, located on the 88th floor of the iconic Eureka Tower. From this elevated vantage point, you can admire the city’s stunning skyline, the Yarra River, and a sweeping panorama of the surrounding areas. At Melbourne Skydeck, you’ll discover interactive displays that offer fascinating insights into the city’s history, landmarks, and modern developments. This experience offers a unique and memorable way to see Melbourne from above. It’s the perfect spot for incredible photos and to take in the full scale and beauty of the city. With panoramic views all day and night, you can relax and enjoy all of Melbourne’s legendary views with a delicious snack and cool drink.

Explore more of Melbourne before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

Farewell Australia today. If there is more of Australia or New Zealand you would like to explore, talk to your sales consultant about planning your next stop!