Pacific Coast Touring Route - Sydney to Brisbane

This 9 day/8 night journey is aimed at those adventurous sophisticated travelers seeking an active Australian holiday, but also want more cultured experiences; such as Hunter Valley Vineyards and a Hot Air Balloon trip in Brisbane.

Not all of these activities will be suitable everyone, don’t worry we have many alternatives for you to try out.

Daily itinerary

Day 1 - Sydney

Sydney is Australia's oldest city, the economic powerhouse of the nation and the country's capital in everything but name. Visit the Sydney Opera House; an art theater built on the Sydney Harbour is considered one of the seven wonders of the modern world, explore ‘The Rocks’ and then take the BridgeClimb; a 3½ hour adventure that guides you up the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The exhilaration and personal satisfaction achieved by reaching the top of the Bridge is rewarded by the breathtaking view that lies before you. Dine in one of the many superb restaurants available. Stay 2 nights.

Day 2 - Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach is an icon not only of Australia, but of the World! It draws the visitor, captivates them and forges memories of sun, surf and sand. It is a world of lifeguards patrolling between yellow and red flags, surfers riding the waves, bronzed bodies and comfortable cafes. Go to Bronte for breakfast and then walk along the cliff to Bondi via Tamarama Beach. It depends how fast you walk but you should be able to make it to Bondi for lunch before heading back to Bronte (you can take a bus back). Then take in a magical sailing experience on the Sydney Harbour, an evening sunset cruise. Board a fabulous Beneteau yacht, with a maximum of 12 people aboard, relax and enjoy the feeling of the wind in the sails. Take the helm and learn the art of sailing!

Day 3 - Sydney to Hunter Valley

From Sydney, drive 1.5 hrs north along the Pacific Highway to the Central Coast. Explore the region's fabulous beaches and waterways en route, then head inland toward Cessnock to sample the delights of the Hunter Valley; is one of Australia’s iconic wine and food destinations, with renowned wines and food to match. Join the Hunter Valley Wine Theatre; shown on a big screen, see the grapes being harvested, and being crushed at the on site winery, watching how the wine press actually works, the Winemaker adding the yeast, seeing the juice start to ferment into alcohol, learn the art of wine blending, and finally the wine being bottled. After the show – up come the lights and it’s down to the serious business of wine tasting. The Cellar master takes visitors through the “Structure” of wine. Smell the many bouquets of a wine, and of course what should one look for in the taste of wine? A true sensory overload!

Day 4 – Hunter Valley to Coffs Harbour

Driving day today along the scenic coastal road towards Port Macquarie; located at the mouth of the Hastings River this area boasts some of the most pristine waterways in Australia. This is a great place to stop for lunch. Continue onto Coffs Harbour which is bordered by the clear warm waters of the Pacific Ocean and the luxurious rainforests of the Great Dividing Range. The hillsides around the town are smothered with banana palms and the icon for the city is the Big Banana, one of the most photographed backdrops in the country. Stay 2 nights.

Day 5 - Full day Diving Trip to Fish Rock, Solitary Islands

Today you will dive the Solitary Islands; which are located just south of the Great Barrier Reef. Solitary Islands is comprises of five islands, three pinnacles, and several shallow-water reefs. Underwater the terrain is made up of an exciting surfeit of gutters, boulders, valleys, kelp forests, and caves full of fascinating marine life including manta rays, giant cuttlefishes, Grey Nurse sharks, Leopard sharks, White-tip Reef sharks and turtles. Fish Rock Cave is the best known and most popular dive site. Spend your evening reflecting on an amazing day!

Day 6 – Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay

Drive through Yamba; a wonderful little village, then back on the road to Lennox Head and along the coastal road to Byron Bay; this is the eastern-most point of the continent of Australia, the beautiful beaches and casual lifestyle makes this town a ‘must see’. Take a 3 hour Sea Kayaking with the Dolphins Trip; paddle through the surf and get up close with Bottlenose Dolphins, discover how inquisitive they can be. Spot Sea Turtles as they come up for a breath of air and if you are in the right season marvel at the size of the majestic Humpback Whales as they migrate. Spend the evening meeting the locals and trying the best fish and chips in town at Fishmongers. Overnight.

Day 7 – Byron Bay to Surfers Paradise

Today you will be weaving your way through tracks and trails, firebreaks and single tracks in one of the best mountain biking destinations in Australia. This Full Day Adventure Rainforest Mountain Biking Tour is created for adventure junkies! It is fully customised to your ability and fitness. When recovered and ready to hit the road, drive the 2 hours to Surfers Paradise; one of the most popular holiday destinations in Australia. Here you'll find the perfect fusion of city and beach lifestyles set amidst a spectacular skyline and brilliant stretch of coast. Vibrant and eclectic, Surfers Paradise provides non-stop action. Overnight.

Day 8 - Surfers Paradise to Brisbane

Spend the morning exploring the area, perhaps take a surfing lesson? Then drive along the Coastal Road to Brisbane; the capital of Queensland. This laid-back city is built on the banks of the Brisbane River, and with its wonderful weather and friendly people it is an easy place to explore on foot. Take a City Cat ride along the Brisbane River or stroll around South Bank, one of the city's liveliest areas with market stalls, cafes, bike paths and a sandy beach. Dine at one of the superb restaurants. Overnight.

Day 9 – Brisbane

What a way to start your last day; Float across the sky by hot air balloon with the picturesque beaches of the Gold Coast and Brisbane City beneath you. Peaceful yet exhilarating the flight lasts for approximately one hour. Finish your hot air ballooning experience with a champagne breakfast.

Depart Brisbane

Not long enough? How about extending your itinerary to include our 13 day Brisbane to Cairns (Pacific Coast Northern Tour) self drive, you won’t regret it!

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