If you plan on traveling in Australia and go up or down the East Coast the options might be overwhelming. With so many places to visit and so many things to see you could easily spend 3 months traveling from Sydney to Tropical North Queensland.
I’ve been living in Australia for over three years now, and was fortunate enough to travel the East Coast in parts and saw some places even twice. Last (Australian) Spring I ticked off my last bit of East Coast Australia. I liked some parts, I loved some parts and some places aren’t really worth a visit. There are a few spots you absolutely CAN. NOT. MISS.
These are the 8 best places on Australia’s East Coast.
Australia’s largest city: Sydney
I don’t think many of you will plan a trip to Australia and skip Sydney, but just in case: absolutely go to this bustling, beautiful city! Grab breakky at Bondi Beach, take a picture at the Sydney Opera House or do one of the other million things this city has to offer
Fun fact: did you know most people think Sydney is Australia’s capital? While Sydney is Australia’s largest city, the capital is Canberra. Very useful information for your next pub quiz 😉
Unwind & relax in Byron Bay
Byron Bay is a beautiful coastal town well-known for its stunning beaches and great surf, but most of all for its very relaxed vibe. You’ll stumble upon a new healthy-food heaven every 20 meters and it doesn’t take long until you’ll be walking around Byron barefoot yourself. For more info on what to do when you’re in Byron read my Byron blog post here.
Queenslands capital: Brisbane
Now, many people will probably tell you Brisbane isn’t really worth a visit. If you’re going to compare this Queensland capital to cities such as Sydney or Melbourne it might slightly disappoint you indeed, but Brissy can still be so much fun!
I lived in Brisbane for four months and really got to know the city. The vibe is overall more relaxed than in Sydney and there are plenty of things to see and do.
Don’t have an awful lot of cash to spend? Check out my post “8 fun & free things to do in Brisbane“. If you are short on time then spending one day in Brisvegas is enough.
Go to charming Noosa
Noosa is one of those places that really surprised me. I heard many good things about it before visiting, but the relaxed vibe and warm waters were the things that really won me over.
Noosa reminds me of a Queensland version of Bondi. It’s slightly posh but overall extremely chilled. There are many beaches to explore and places to grab a bite. Definitely don’t miss out on this little gem!
The Whitsundays will make you go “wow!”
It took me three years in this amazing country before I finally visited one of its most beautiful places: The Whitsundays. And everything they say is true: this place is simply gorgeous.
Make sure you free up enough time to properly explore this area. I’d recommend going on a boat for at least one night (two is even better). If you’re curious to read about my Sailing around the Whitsundays experience then head on over to my article on this topic.
Magnetic Island
On a 20 minute ferry ride from Townsville you’ll find Magnetic Island. And I can tell you: this place is so pretty! The island is very small so if you rent a car you can easily drive around the island within a couple of hours. You’re not allowed to drive any faster than 60km an hour, giving you an idea of how small this island is 🙂 Explore Picnic Bay, Nelly Bay and Horseshoe Bay, and try to see if you can spot a koala on The Forts Walk.
Follow the palm trees to Port Douglas
The further up north you go, the more palm trees you see. Port Douglas is one of those places where you see palms everywhere.
Before coming to Port Douglas I never expected to like this town so much. It kind of reminded me of Noosa, but then a bit smaller are more down to earth. Did you know the people of Port Douglas fought a battle to stop McDonalds from opening a “restaurant” in their cute little town? They want to preserve the town and support local businesses. I’m lovin’ it!
A unique place: Cape Tribulation
Cape Tribulation is where the rainforest meets the reef, making it a very unique place on this planet. You can drive up from Port Douglas and take a ferry to get to Cape Tribulation.
Go on one of the rainforest hikes or chill at the beach. But be careful: no swimming as there are some deadly stingers out there very keen to get their tentacles on you 😉
More recommendations
Other places not included in the write up above but definitely worth visitng if you have the time are:
– Port Macquarie: a quaint little coastal town between Sydney and Brisbane. The coastal walk is absolutely gorgeous and there are many beaches to explore.
– Gold Coast: I’d personally recommend staying far away from Surfers Paradise, but the Gold Coast definitely has a bunch of beautiful other spots to explore. Go to Rainbow Bay or (learn to) surf at Currumbin Beach.
– Frasier Island: I haven’t included Frasier in the above list because I personally haven’t been there yet. Many people call Frasier Island the highlight of their East Coast trip, so if you’ve got the time then book a tour on this spectacular island.
– Mission Beach: if skydiving is on you’re Australian Bucket List then definitely make a stop in Mission Beach. There’s not an awful lot to do in this town so one day is enough. Curious about the Skydive experience? Read all about is here.
Have fun exploring East Coast Australia!
All pictures in this article are edited with Eef’s Presets – get yours here.
❤ Eef
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