Gold Coast & Byron Bay - 7 Days
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Enjoy breakfast before your mid-morning transfer to Coolangatta or Brisbane (45 minutes to 2 hours) for your onward journey.
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