Heading on an adventure of a lifetime? Travelling Australia's East Coast is a life changing experience for any adventure traveller. Whether you are a solo adventurer or a social butterfly, the East Coast of Australia has everything to quench your thirst for travel. Here is our Ultimate 2024 East Coast Travel Guide for useful tips, tricks, hotspots and hidden gems, to help you experience the best of the East Coast.
1. Getting Started
There are three things you need to do before starting your East Coast travel journey. The first thing you need to do is to obtain either a working holiday visa or purchase a tourist visa depending on what works best for you. Applying for a visa is super simple to do and is essential before arriving into Australia. Once you have been granted a visa, you will need to book your flights out to Oz. Depending on where you are flying from we would recommend to start in either Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane or Cairns. You will find that these tend to be the cheapest places to fly to and are where most people start their journey with lots of opportunities to meet people when you arrive.
Finally, and most importantly, all you need to do is jump on the plane, say goodbye to your friends and family (for now) and take the journey Down Under.
2. Choosing where to start
Picking a place to start will depend very much on the season and where you fly into. If you are looking to travel North to Cairns then you will definitely want to start in either Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane as that is where most East Coast Tours start from and they also have international airports with cheap flights from Europe, America & Canada. It is also possible to start in smaller towns like Byron Bay or Surfers Paradise if you are already here or looking to build your own custom East Coast itinerary.
If you plan to head Southbound then Cairns is for certain the most popular place to start and is home to an international airport, making it the perfect starting point due to the cheap inbound flights from South East Asia, Fiji or Bali. Whether you plan to travel Northbound or Southbound the experiences are very similar and you will still get to see the same magnificent destinations in both directions.
3. Best Time to Visit The East Coast
The most popular time to travel the East Coast? Well, if you are looking to go when it's at it's busiest, then travelling between November and March is the way forward. This is summer in Australia, where the south will be warm and sunny, and the rainy season in the north means waterfalls and rainforest are absolutely thriving. You may also get to spend holidays such as Christmas and New year's in paradise.
However, the shoulder seasons between April and October are equally as popular and considered the 'best time' due to the great weather, smaller crowds, and much cheaper hostels and tours due to seasonal pricing. Whilst cooler in the south, days are still sunny and camping tours are absolutely epic with clear skies and campfires every night. In the north, the dry season brings beautiful days and calm seas. It's also worth noting that between May and October is when the magnificent Humpback Whales make their annual migration up Australia's East Coast, so if you're a wildlife lover, it's absolutely worth planning your trip around this epic event.
4. Getting around
Exploring Australia’s East Coast offers a range of transport options to suit your budget and travel style. If you’re seeking flexibility and the freedom to roam, renting a campervan is a great choice. Most popular destinations along the East Coast have campervan depots, so you can start your journey from pretty much anywhere. Also, campervans will double as both transport and accommodation, saving you some money, and allowing you to stop wherever and whenever you please. Check out our Campervan Finder here to see what type of camper you could be roaming around in.
If budget is your main concern, or you prefer not to drive, the Greyhound Bus Pass is an excellent option. With extensive routes covering the entire East Coast, and other locations in Australia too, Greyhound buses are reliable, comfortable, and a great way to meet fellow travellers. The flexible hop-on-hop-off passes allows you to explore at your own pace, too, with options to choose how many travel days or to extend while you’re already on the road.
For the more adventurous, buying a second-hand car could be the most economical option if you're travelling for an extended period, or if you’re planning on working in Australia after you’ve travelled. Websites like Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace are ideal for finding budget-friendly vehicles, and often come with camping gear from previous backpackers.
5. Finding the best tour to suit you
When planning your East Coast adventure, deciding between being a Freedom Independent Traveller (F.I.T) or joining a group tour is crucial. As an F.I.T, you have complete control over your itinerary, ideal for if you value independence and spontaneity. You can build your custom East Coast package, choosing destinations, activities, and accommodations that suit your interests and budget.
If you prefer the social aspect of travelling in a group, consider joining fully guided group tours. These tours are perfect for first-time visitors and solo travellers who prefer the comfort of a guide and having everything taken care of. They take care of all the logistics, from accommodation to activities, allowing you to focus on enjoying the journey.
Alternatively, we think the perfect middle ground is a semi-self-guided group tour, like our Travel Buddies 32 day tour, that blends the best of independent travel with the social side of a small group tour. Having all of your accommodation and transport included takes away the stress of planning so you can be sure to enjoy every moment of your road trip. As this tour is not a fully guided group tour, you get the best of both worlds with plenty of opportunities to go with the flow and enjoy your free time whilst having the same group embarking on the adventure together.
6. Best things to see on The East Coast
The East Coast is absolutely brimming with iconic destinations that should be on every backpacker's itinerary. K’Gari (Fraser Island), the world's largest sand island, is a must-visit. Known for its crystal-clear freshwater lakes, lush rainforests, and expansive sandy beaches, it's a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. A 4WD tour is the best way to explore the island's rugged terrain and hidden gems.
Another highlight is the Whitsunday Islands, a collection of 74 tropical islands nestled in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Sailing trips around the Whitsundays offer stunning views of pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs and is an unbeatable way to explore. You’ll get to swim, snorkel, hike, and hang out with new friends along the way. Don’t miss Whitehaven Beach, renowned for its pure silica sand and turquoise waters, with Hill Inlet Lookout offering one of the most breathtaking (and iconic) views.
7. Hidden Gems
While the popular spots are a must-see, Australia's East Coast is also dotted with lesser-known treasures. Take Spot X, a secluded surf camp located a few hours south of Byron Bay, the perfect place for those wanting to learn to surf or improve their skills in paradise. Uncrowded beaches, excellent waves, and an unbeatable laid back vibe. What more could you ask for?
Another hidden gem is Mackay and its surrounds, often overlooked by travellers rushing to the more famous nearby Airlie Beach. Mackay offers unique experiences, such as platypus spotting in Eungella National Park and watching a spectacular sunrise on the pristine beach of Cape Hillsborough, surrounded by roaming kangaroos and wallabies searching for their breakfast. The region's tranquillity and natural beauty provide a refreshing break from the more touristy areas.
8. Tips & Tricks to saving money
We get that travelling on a budget is crucial for most backpackers, and there are plenty of ways to save money on the East Coast. First, consider cooking your meals instead of dining out. Many hostels offer communal kitchens where you can prepare your own food. Buying groceries from local markets or supermarkets like Coles and Woolworths can significantly cut down your expenses, and you can even go in on meal planning with your travel mates to save on time and money.
Another way to save some bucks is by booking ahead of time to avoid last minute price hikes and, travelling during the shoulder seasons not only means fewer crowds but also cheaper prices for hostels and tours. Lastly, when you book a package that includes your tours, transport, and accommodation, you’ll get discounts and deals that means your money will stretch further, saving you the hassle of unexpected costs in the process.
9. Travel hacks
To make your journey along the East Coast smoother and more enjoyable, consider these travel hacks. Download essential apps like Maps.me for offline navigation and Hostelworld for finding the best budget accommodations. Booking flights or bus tickets in advance will often result in lower prices and ensures you get a seat where a journey might get booked up.
Another great hack is to travel light. Packing only the essentials not only saves you from hefty baggage fees but also makes it easier to move around. Be sure to research things like safety and local customs before arriving in an area, to avoid any unfortunate situations. Lastly, having a travel agent help book all or even some of your travel will be a huge help. At Happy Travels, all of our travel specialists are backpackers themselves and know exactly what goes into planning an East Coast trip. You can keep in touch in case anything goes wrong on your trip, so you know that no matter what, you’ve got some support along the way.
10. Best parties and nightclubs on the East Coast
Australia’s East Coast is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, offering a variety of parties and nightclubs to suit every taste. In Sydney, head to Kings Cross or Darling Harbour for a night out, where you’ll find a mix of trendy bars, lively clubs, and great live music venues. The Ivy, with its rooftop pool and chic ambiance, is a must-visit.
Byron Bay is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and beachside parties. The Beach Hotel and The Secret Garden are popular spots for backpackers, offering live music, DJ sets, and an energetic vibe. Further north, Airlie Beach is the gateway to the Whitsundays and a party hotspot. Visit Magnums and The Boat House for unforgettable nights filled with dancing and fun.
11. Where to stay
Choosing the right accommodation can make a big difference in your travel experience. For solo travellers, hostels are the best option as they offer affordable rates and a chance to meet other backpackers. Look for hostels with communal areas, free activities, and social events to make it easier to connect with others. Popular hostels like Wake Up! in Sydney and the Arts Factory in Byron Bay are excellent choices.
For couples, budget hotels, private rooms in hostels, or Airbnb accommodations can offer more privacy and comfort. YHA hostels often provide private rooms at reasonable prices, combining the social atmosphere of a hostel with the privacy you desire. No matter your preference, we recommend booking in advance during peak seasons to secure the best deals.
12. Travel Packing Essentials
Packing smartly for your East Coast adventure is key to a smooth trip. To make things easier for you, we’ve created an Essential Aussie Packing List for a comprehensive guide on what to bring. Essentials include lightweight clothing, swimwear, a good quality backpack, and sturdy walking shoes. Don’t forget sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the Australian sun can be intense. A travel adapter, portable charger, and reusable water bottle are also must-haves. Keeping your gear organised and minimal will make your travel experience more enjoyable and hassle-free.
