Enjoy the sun, surf, and sand on this week-long tour of Australia's famous Gold Coast and Byron Bay. Starting in Coolangatta, you'll head up the Gold Coast to Burleigh Heads, Broadbeach, and Surfers Paradise, where you'll enjoy golden beaches, world-class shopping, and a vibrant entertainment scene. End your stay in Byron Bay, taking in stunning sunsets, visiting organic farms, and meeting with friendly local artisans.

Highlights

  • Navigate the Gold Coast's canals and waterways in Coolangatta
  • Go offroading through the Tamborine National Park's rainforest
  • Learn to surf in Burleigh Heads, one of Australia's most iconic surfing destinations
  • Spot wild kangaroos in the Currumbin Valley
  • Watch the setting sun from the Cape Byron Lighthouse in Byron Bay

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Coolangatta Gold Coast
Day 2 Explore the Gold Coast Gold Coast
Day 3 Free day Gold Coast
Day 4 Drive to Byron Bay via Currumbin Valley Byron Bay
Day 5 Explore Byron Bay Byron Bay
Day 6 Free day Byron Bay
Day 7 Depart  

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Coolangatta

Australia - Gold Coast - Coolangatta and Kirra Beach
Kirra Beach and Coolangatta along the Gold Coast

Welcome to Australia! Upon your arrival in Coolangatta (the southernmost suburb of the Gold Coast), you'll set out to explore the Gold Coast on a river cruise. Sail from Coolangatta, working your way through the Gold Coast's system of canals and waterways, taking in the views of stunning waterfront properties and the Surfer's Paradise skyline. Jump on a 4WD and follow the original track built by the early pioneers. Wind your way through eucalyptus trees to enter the magnificent rainforests of Tamborine National Park, keeping an eye out for koalas and other native wildlife.

Day 2: Beaches, shopping & dining

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Have fun at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Spend the morning lying out on Mermaid Beach or if there's interest, take a short walk to discover Pacific Fair, a world-class shopping destination. In the afternoon, travel the short distance to the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary for a chance to cuddle a koala.

Enjoy a guided coastal nature walk before commencing with the culinary highlight of your day: a progressive dinner through the beachside town of Burleigh Heads.

Day 3: Free day

Australia - Lamington National Park - Waterfalls on Toolona Circuit
Hike the Toolona Circuit in Lamington National Park

Take today off to experience the Gold Coast at your own pace. Take a surfing lesson, follow a hiking trail through Lamington National Park, or visit one of the many theme parks in the area.

Day 4: Drive to Byron Bay via Currumbin Valley

Byron Bay, NSW, Australia
Swim off the coast of Byron Bay

Today you'll venture south to enter the Currumbin Valley for a tour of the award-winning Ecovillage. Here you will see wild kangaroos and other native animals and plant life as you drive through this sustainable community. From here, you'll drive the hour further south into New South Wales and to Byron Bay, famed for its laidback lifestyle.

Day 5: Explore Byron Bay 

Byron Bay, NSW, Australia
Find your way to the Byron Bay lighthouse to watch a sunset

Today you will venture into the Byron Shire hinterland to meet local producers and farmers. You'll visit a working coffee plantation before stopping for lunch in a charming 100-year-old farmhouse on a working pecan farm.

In the afternoon, make your way to the Cape Byron Lighthouse, Australia's most easterly point, to take in the sunset.

Day 6: Free day

Tallow Beach, NSW, Australia
Explore Tallow Beach in Arakwal National Park

Rise early this morning for a restorative yoga class in the rainforest. After breakfast, spend some time exploring the heart of Byron town, meeting local artisans and craftspeople as you shop for gifts and souvenirs. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, scuba diving, or snorkeling, and enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant along the waterfront.

Day 7: Depart

Byron Bay, NSW, Australia
Sunrise over Byron Bay

Enjoy breakfast before your mid-morning transfer to Coolangatta or Brisbane (45 minutes to 2 hours) for your onward journey.

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Map

Map of Gold Coast & Byron Bay - 7 Days
Map of Gold Coast & Byron Bay - 7 Days