If you are a first-time traveler than you can guarantee that Australia’s East Coast will welcome you with open arms and break you into that enlightened state of being that traveling the world will offer you! But first – a word of warning. Are you really ready for the relaxed and easy-going lifestyle, the vast miles of white sandy coastline, the crystal clear waters of the great Barrier reef, the masses of like-minded back-packers from across the globe and the exhilarating freedom to explore a new way of being? Too right you are! After all, life is for living!
Where to start?!
Fly into the cosmopolitan delight that is Sydney and aim to travel your way up to Cairns in Northern Queensland (or vice versa, flying into Cairns and traveling down the coast). This is the typical traveler route, and you will be greeted with around 3000km of gorgeous destinations and hot-spots along the way, perfect for meeting lots of people whether you are traveling alone or in a group.
Suggested beauties!
The whole of the East Coast is full of great places to stop off and explore and is extremely backpacker-friendly so there’s no real need to make a plan of where you are going to visit and when (half the fun of traveling is the spontaneity!) However, there are some places that are just too good to be missed!
SYDNEY – Think of Australia and think of the opera house? That’s certainly one of the many images that rushes into my head. Head down to Circular Quay where you can view the Opera House and Sydney’s famous Harbour Bridge. Wander through the quaint art shops around The Rocks and stroll through the Royal Botanical gardens where you may see cockatoos and fruit bats (flying foxes) hanging from the trees. Head to the Aquarium near the eastern end of Pyrmont Bridge for an insight into Australia’s marine life of sharks, rays, seals and maybe you will find Nemo! Sydney is also home to the well known Bondi Beach, though be prepared to expect hauls of tourists and gimmicky paraphernalia.
BLUE MOUNTAINS – Approximately 100kms east of Sydney allows you to take a step into Australia’s stunning wilderness. Catch the train to Katoomba – at the heart of the Blue Mountains, and spend the day bush walking around the forests and gazing across from Seven Sisters Lookout at the blue haze rising up off the Eucalyptus trees. Information about organised bushwalks is available at the Katoomba Visitor Centre.
BYRON BAY – Byron, a sure favourite of mine, bustles with the energy of locals and travelers alike whilst retaining its laid-back and care-free lifestyle. A great location to spend several days (weeks, or months) chilling out, learning to surf and partying till the sun rises up over the picturesque chalk-white lighthouse. Stroll up to Cape Byron – Australia’s most easterly point – and look out for dolphins and humpback whales (most frequently viewed in the months of June, July, September and November).
SURFERS PARADISE – Worth a stop even if it is just to tell yourself that you wont be visiting again. A beloved spot of Paris Hilton’s, need I say more. The skyscrapers and looming tower blocks resemble a 1990’s LA soap opera haunt, however the extensive sandy beach is worth the vision. If you do head to Surfers then October is a good time to visit when the main streets are turned into a race circuit during four days for Australia’s version of Formula One.
FRASER ISLAND – The world’s biggest sand island formed over thousands of years from longshore drift, and home to dingoes (wolf-like wild dogs). Hire a 4-wheel drive (available to organize through various hostels in Hervey Bay) and cruise around the island, stopping to camp up for the night under the stars of the Southern hemisphere. Indian Heads is a must-stop-off point; aim to arrive early hours of the morning (anytime from sunrise) where dolphins and Tiger Sharks can be seen swimming in the waters below.
Sand-surf down the dunes, explore the rusted ship-wreck and swim in the cool refreshing clear waters of lake McKenzie.
WHITSUNDAYS – Fancy a few days sailing? You couldn’t wish for a better sailing trip than amongst the Whitsunday islands. Book a trip from one of the many travel agents and tour operators in Airlie Beach, ensuring that you tour includes Whitehaven Beach – designated high in the list of many people’s ‘Top 10 Beaches in the World’. Ultimate paradise!
CAIRNS – Head out to the Great Barrier Reef (Green Island is a good spot) for the scuba dive of your life (no dive that I have done since has come close to comparing!). If scuba-diving isn’t your bag, baby, then Cairns has plenty of shops, museums, galleries and local parks to visit. End your day in the infamous messy Woolshed that calls out to all budget backpackers and hedonists with its cheap drink offers and its flamboyant cheap-charm.
Other must sees.
The list is endless.. includes wine tasting at Hunter Valley, Brisbane’s city-life charisma, and the gems that are Noosa, Magnetic Island, Mission Beach and Cape Tribulation.
How to get around
Transport along the east coast is so user-friendly and frequent for backpackers. There are hop-on hop-off coaches (Greyhound or the Oz-Experience for a more ’18-30’s package’ style) or look at buying a camper van to drive around in that you can sell on once you’re done.
How long will it take?
However long you wish! Realistically allow at least six weeks to get from Sydney to Cairns (it is possible to do it in less time than this). My advice – the longer the better! You can get a three-month tourist visa, or if you are under 30 you can also apply for a one-year working visa (one per lifetime).