Customer Friendly Itineraries

Brisbane, the vibrant capital of Queensland, is a city that seamlessly blends modern sophistication with natural beauty. Located along the winding Brisbane River, the city is home to a rich cultural history, having been originally inhabited by the Turrbal and Jagera peoples. These Aboriginal tribes have deep connections to the land, and their heritage is an integral part of the city’s identity. Today, visitors to the city can explore the cultural significance of the area through art, history, and storytelling, gaining insight into the traditional custodians' deep connection to the environment.
Known for its friendly locals and sun-soaked climate, Brisbane boasts a thriving cultural scene, with highlights such as the Queensland Art Gallery, the Gallery of Modern Art, the Museum of Brisbane, and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. South Bank is a must-visit, where visitors can enjoy riverside dining, relax in lush parklands, and take in the city’s stunning skyline. The highlight is the Brisbane City Beach—an urban oasis featuring sandy shores, swimming lagoons, and a relaxed, holiday vibe right in the heart of the city. The city also offers a vibrant food scene, from fresh local seafood to international cuisine.
Brisbane is the gateway to both coastal and hinterland adventures, with pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and mountain ranges just a short trip away. Its eco-conscious initiatives and numerous green spaces make it a great city for outdoor enthusiasts, while its easy access to nature adds another layer to its charm. Whether you're interested in cultural exploration, natural beauty, or urban sophistication, Brisbane is the perfect place to begin your Queensland adventure.

Arrive into Brisbane. A private driver will meet your flight and transfer you to your accommodation.

Tucked between Brisbane’s iconic Story Bridge and the New Farm cliffs, with knockout views of the city skyline and river, you’ll find Howard Smith Wharves – the city's go-to spot for good times. Just a breezy 10-minute stroll from the CBD, this once-forgotten patch has been reimagined into a buzzing riverside boardwalk packed with restaurants, bars, a boutique hotel, and plenty of spots to kick back and soak up the sunshine. By day, it’s all river breezes, long lunches, and beers by the water. By night, the lights twinkle on, the drinks start flowing, and the precinct comes alive with Brisbane’s signature energy. With some of the city’s best restaurants and bars calling it home (hello, Felons Brewing Co), Howard Smith Wharves isn’t just a must-visit - it’s where Brisbane really shows off.

Make the most of your free day in Brisbane with a wealth of activities to explore at your own pace. From vibrant street markets to tranquil parklands, this is your chance to experience the city’s diverse attractions. Start your day by strolling through the picturesque South Bank, home to lush gardens, riverside walks, and cultural hotspots like the Queensland Art Gallery, the Gallery of Modern Art, and the Museum of Brisbane, where you can delve into the city’s rich history and artistic heritage. For a unique experience, visit the iconic Brisbane City Botanic Gardens or take a relaxing ride along the river on a CityCat ferry. Food lovers can indulge in Brisbane’s burgeoning culinary scene, with a wide variety of cafés, restaurants, and fresh food markets offering both local and international flavours. Be sure to make your way to Howard Smith Wharves, tucked beneath the Story Bridge – it’s the perfect spot for lunch or dinner, boasting a buzzing atmosphere and stunning waterfront views.
For shopping, Queen Street Mall and James Street Precinct in Fortitude Valley offer everything from high-end fashion to quirky boutiques.
If you're looking to unwind, head to Brisbane City Beach—a sandy urban oasis complete with swimming lagoons and a relaxed atmosphere. It's the perfect place to soak up the sun, take a dip in the refreshing waters, or simply enjoy the vibrant surroundings.
For nature enthusiasts, take a short trip to the nearby Mt. Coot-tha Lookout for panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas, or explore the city’s many parks and walking trails. If you’re feeling adventurous, head to Moreton Bay for some beach time or enjoy water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding. With so much to see and do in Brisbane, it's the perfect opportunity to tailor your experience to your interests, whether you prefer culture, shopping, nature, or just relaxing and soaking up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Experience the best of Brisbane’s natural beauty and wildlife with a Return River Cruise combined with admission to the renowned Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Begin your journey with a scenic river cruise along the Brisbane River, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline, the lush parklands, and iconic landmarks like the Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point Cliffs. The leisurely cruise is a perfect way to relax and soak in the sights while enjoying informative commentary about Brisbane’s history and river life.
Upon reaching the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, enjoy direct access to one of the world’s largest and most beloved koala conservation facilities. Wander through lush, expansive grounds and get close to a wide range of Australian wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, wombats, and more. Hold a koala for a memorable photo or hand-feed kangaroos in their natural habitat. The sanctuary also offers a variety of animal encounters and educational presentations, making it a fantastic experience for animal lovers of all ages. Enjoy 3 hours exploring Lone Pine, before re-joining the cruise for a relaxing return journey on the river back to the city.

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Please note, a one-way fee may apply

Escape the city and journey North into the Sunshine Coast Hinterland! Explore charming towns like Maleny and Montville, nestled amidst lush rainforests and the iconic Glass House Mountains. Hike to hidden waterfalls like Gardners Falls for a refreshing dip, or wander through the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, a haven for diverse plant and animal life. Indulge your senses at the Maleny Botanic Gardens, a paradise of manicured lawns, cascading waterfalls, and a vibrant bird sanctuary. Foodies will love the fresh, local fare and craft brews at Brouhaha pub, while art enthusiasts can lose themselves in the galleries and boutiques of Maleny and Montville. Unwind with breathtaking coastal views on the Blackall Range Tourist Drive. Feeling adventurous? Conquer the peaks of Mount Tibrogargan or Mount Ngungun, two of the Glass House Mountains open for public bushwalking. Immerse yourself in the world of wildlife conservation at Australia Zoo, the legacy of the Irwin family.

Marvel at the charming town of Montville, a romantic, peaceful and serene destination located on the Sunshine Coast. Check out the 90 metre waterfall in Kondalilla National Park, the world's smallest oil painting homed at Montville Art Gallery or enjoy a chocolate making workshop at Chocolate Country! There's no wonder as to why Montville has been named Australia's number one accommodation destination with cosy cottages, unique treehouses and luxurious retreats. The town has many German inspired buildings throughout the main street, including the Montville Clock Shop, built from stone and shingle. Whilst staying in town is a treat, Montville may also be reached from day tours departing from nearing towns.

Farewell the Sunshine Coast and hit the road to Hervey Bay! Your first stop is Eumundi, famous for hosting Australia’s biggest and best arts and craft market. If it’s a Wednesday or Saturday, definitely stop by the Original Eumundi Markets. Grab a coffee, browse the local stalls, and enjoy the relaxed village vibe. Next, make your way to Gympie, a historic gold mining town. It's a great place to explore heritage buildings or, if you're up for something a bit different, hop aboard the Mary Valley Rattler, a charming old steam train that takes you through the scenic Mary Valley.  Continue north to Maryborough, full of old-world charm and home of Mary Poppins author P.L. Travers. Stretch your legs in Queen’s Park, or visit the Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary for a chance to get up close to kangaroos, wallabies, and emus. You’ll finish up in Hervey Bay a relaxed seaside town and Australia’s whale-watching capital.

Hervey Bay is Queensland's tranquil coastal gem and Australia's whale-watching capital. Renowned as the world's first Whale Heritage Site, this serene city offers unparalleled opportunities to witness humpback whales in their natural habitat. From July to November, embark on unforgettable whale-watching tours where you can observe these majestic creatures as they rest, play, and nurture their young in the calm, protected waters of Platypus Bay. Hervey Bay's unique geography, sheltered by K'gari (Fraser Island), provides a safe haven for these gentle giants, ensuring close and personal encounters. Beyond the whales, Hervey Bay boasts a 17-kilometre Esplanade stretching from Urangan to Point Vernon, perfect for leisurely walks or bike rides. Along the way, enjoy parks, cafes, and the historic Urangan Pier, one of Australia’s longest, stretching nearly 1km into the ocean with stunning views and great fishing spots.

Led by an experienced local guide, you’ll see the island’s iconic sights on a curated itinerary of highlights. You'll be transported on a custom designed 4WD bus, which is airconditioned for your comfort and fitted with panoramic windows.
Highlights include Lake McKenzie, where you will have the opportunity to enjoy a revitalising swim in the crystal clear blue waters and relax on the picture-perfect sandy white beaches. You'll also visit 75 Mile Beach, driving along this golden beach highway, you may spot birds of prey flying above or humpback whales as they migrate past (between July – November). Enjoy a photo stop at the rusting wreck of the Maheno Shipwreck, washed ashore during an out-of-season cyclone in 1935 – it’s one of Fraser Island’s most recognisable sites. Drive along Seventy-Five Mile Beach.

Enjoy a full day to explore the charms of Hervey Bay at your own pace. Start by visiting the local Visitor Information Centre to chat with locals and discover hidden gems. From July to October, Hervey Bay is a world-renowned spot for whale watching, where migratory humpback whales play, salute, and nurture their calves in calm, protected waters. You can witness these gentle giants up close from a tour boat or even while snorkelling. On land, relax on family-friendly beaches, fish off the historic Urangan Pier, or try stand-up paddleboarding. Sample the region’s famous fresh scallops, browse local markets, and consider a day trip or 4WD adventure to Fraser Island for a memorable coastal experience.
If you're willing to venture a little further, you can take a day trip to Lady Elliot Island, a true coral cay island located on the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef.

Depart Hervey Bay and head north to Yeppoon via the Bruce Highway. Stop in Bundaberg to visit two local favourites:The Bundaberg Barrel, home of the iconic ginger beer, and Mon Repos, Australia’s largest turtle rookery. From November to March, you might even spot turtles nesting or hatching – a truly special experience. If time permits, take a detour to Agnes Waters and the Town of 1770, known for beautiful beaches and the historic landing site of Lieutenant James Cook in Queensland. Back on the highway, pass through Rockhampton, the beef capital of Australia – perfect for a hearty pub meal and a stroll by the river. Finally, arrive in Yeppoon, a relaxed beachside town with stunning ocean views, island access, and that easy, tropical pace of life.

Set sail with Funtastic Cruises for an all-inclusive full-day adventure exploring the stunning Keppel Islands. Departing daily from Yeppoon, this small-group cruise offers a relaxing and immersive experience. Sail through the pristine waters of the Southern Great Barrier Reef, snorkel vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, and try stand-up paddleboarding for a unique perspective on the calm, clear waters. Take time to unwind on secluded beaches, wander picturesque bays, or simply relax onboard the comfortable vessel. A delicious buffet lunch, freshly prepared by the crew, awaits you midday, along with plenty of time to soak up the island views. End your day with a leisurely sail back to Yeppoon, enjoying the warm afternoon sun and stunning coastal scenery. Perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet adventurous day on the water!

Depart Yeppoon, passing the Capricorn Caves, if you haven’t visited yet, take time to stop for a guided tour of this ancient limestone cave system before continuing north. This is a longer driving day of approximately six hours, so be sure to break up the journey. Enjoy a bakery stop in Marlborough or stretch your legs at the St Lawrence Wetlands. Continue on to Mackay, the sugar capital of Australia, and visit the Sarina Sugar Shed for a sweet insight into the region’s history. Arrive in Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsundays, and explore its lively markets, shops, and restaurants.

Considered the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef, Airlie Beach provides a picturesque mainland base from which to explore the natural wonders of the area. There is a 15-minute walk from the main point and check out the Airlie Beach craft markets. On your way to the boardwalk is a nice little walk to the Lagoon town centre and a great place to swim. A wonderful sunset stroll on the Bicentennial walk would definitely make your night. The Airlie Beach Lagoon is situated right in the heart of Airlie Beach and has become a focal point and favourite local hang-out. The beachfront parks, palm-lined beaches, al fresco restaurants and lively seaside markets entertain on land, while the crystal-clear blue sea and soft white sand beaches lend themselves to snorkelling, diving, swimming, and sailing. For boat lovers must visit the coral sea marina and enjoy some magnificent views. 

Depart the Port of Airlie for a scenic one-hour cruise to Hamilton Island. Sit back and relax aboard a modern, air-conditioned vessel, enjoying panoramic views of the Whitsundays along the way. Refresh with coffee, drinks, or snacks from the onboard bar.

Hamilton Island, located in the heart of Queensland’s Whitsundays, is a slice of tropical paradise surrounded by the azure waters of the Coral Sea. As the largest inhabited island in the Whitsundays, it’s a dream destination offering a perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and natural beauty. Famous for its white sandy beaches, lush greenery, and year-round warm weather, Hamilton Island serves as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the breathtaking Whitehaven Beach. Whether you're diving into vibrant coral gardens, sailing through turquoise waters, or simply relaxing by a pool with a cocktail in hand, the island provides an idyllic escape.

Take a day to explore Hamilton Island at your own pace and experience the island’s natural beauty. Begin your day with a breathtaking sunrise hike to Passage Peak or South East Head, where panoramic views of the Whitsunday Islands will leave you in awe. Afterwards, cool off with a refreshing morning snorkel amongst vibrant coral and turtles at Catseye Beach, or try your hand at sailing with a catamaran hire. Soak up the sun and relax by the Main Resort Pool, sipping on a tropical cocktail from the swim-up bar. Savour a delicious pub-style lunch at the Marina Tavern or enjoy a more refined dining experience at Sails or Manta Ray Restaurant. Explore the island's charming boutiques and art galleries along Marina Village Main Street. For convenient transportation, be sure to use the island's free shuttle busses or hire a golf buggy. Other activities – perhaps a visit to meet the koalas at the WILDLIFE park or enjoy the thrill of go-karting, jetboating, or mini-golf. Don't miss the daily fun and entertainment, including trivia, bingo, and live music happening around the island. As the day draws to a close, head to One Tree Hill for a magical sunset.

Sail through the Whitsundays on this unforgettable day trip from Hamilton Island. Visit the iconic Whitehaven Beach, famous for its pure silica sands and turquoise waters, and soak in its breathtaking beauty. Cruise to Chalkies Beach to snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, turtles, and tropical fish, with all high-quality equipment provided. Enjoy a delicious lunch and morning/afternoon tea aboard your catamaran as you glide across crystal-clear waters. Relax, explore, and discover the Whitsundays’ world-renowned beaches and marine life in style on this full-day adventure.

Bid farewell to Hamilton Island and enjoy a scenic one-hour cruise back to the Port of Airlie.

Make your way from Airlie Beach to Townsville, stopping along the way to explore the delights of Bowen, Queensland’s ‘fruit bowl’ and home to the iconic Big Mango. Stretch your legs and take a refreshing dip at Horseshoe Bay Beach before continuing north. Just outside Townsville, the renowned Billabong Sanctuary offers close encounters with native mammals, birds, and reptiles, creating unforgettable experiences for all ages. Once in Townsville, enjoy a vibrant mix of activities, fantastic dining, and the city’s relaxed coastal charm. Nearby Magnetic Island, a ferry ride away,  is a paradise for wildlife lovers, with opportunities to explore both its lush landscapes and underwater wonders.

Tropical by nature, adventurous by design, Townsville is the laidback capital of North Queensland that’s full of surprises. Whatever your idea of holiday fun looks like, from stadium sports and events to wildlife watching, hiking or just straight-up luxury, Townsville’s got you covered.  Nestled on the shores of the Coral Sea, Townsville offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and vibrant city life. It’s the gateway to the iconic Great Barrier Reef and Magnetic Island (Yunbenun), where palm-fringed beaches, wildlife encounters, and world-class snorkeling await. Explore the underwater world through the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA), dive the famous SS Yongala shipwreck, or hike Castle Hill for panoramic city views. With pristine beaches like Pallarenda and lush rainforests nearby, plus historic sites and lively cultural events, Townsville delivers a unique mix of tropical charm and adventure, all served with genuine North Queensland hospitality.

Townsville's Strand beckons you with its lively atmosphere and stunning beach. Enjoy a relaxed stroll or bike ride along the scenic 2.5km pathway, soaking in Magnetic Island views. Families will love the playgrounds, water park, and rock pool, while thrill-seekers can try skydiving or paddleboarding. Unwind under palm trees with a delicious meal or picnic, or cast a line off the jetty. Immerse yourself in local history at Jezzine Barracks, where you'll discover Townsville's indigenous and military heritage through exhibits and art or explore the nearby Reef HQ Aquarium to delve into the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. The Strand is Townsville's beating heart, a place to soak up the sun and embrace the laid-back atmosphere.

Depart Townsville for a quick 20-minute cruise to Magnetic Island aboard a state-of-the-art, high-speed catamaran. Sit back and relax as you enjoy the tropical waters and coastal views of North Queensland along the way.

Just a short ferry ride from Townsville, Magnetic Island (Yunbenun) is a tropical paradise known for its secluded beaches, iconic wildlife, and relaxed island atmosphere. Home to 23 stunning bays, crystal-clear waters, and over 25 kilometres of walking trails, the island is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike. Snorkel vibrant fringing reefs, hike through eucalypt forest to WWII forts, or simply soak up the sun on a quiet stretch of sand. Getting around is easy – hop on the island’s reliable public bus (a budget-friendly way to reach the main bays), or for something with flair, hire a scooter or one of Maggie’s iconic Barbie-pink topless cars. If you’ve brought your own vehicle over on the barge, even better – you’re free to explore at your own pace.
Prefer to explore with a guide? Join a West Coast Eco Adventure for a 3.5-hour small group tour uncovering hidden corners of the island, or discover highlights on the Magnetic Island Best Bus Tour with knowledgeable local guides. If the sea calls, hop aboard a Circumnavigation Magnetic Island Tour and see the island from the water, with plenty of chances to spot marine life along the way. With a mix of protected national park, charming coastal villages, and the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef on its doorstep, Magnetic Island is the perfect destination to slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience Queensland’s tropical beauty at its best.

Discover a rarely seen side of Magnetic Island on our fun and inspiring guided West Coast Eco Adventure. Considered the ultimate land-based tour, the Eco Adventure takes you through secluded bays, critical mangrove and salt marsh areas, into spectacular and diverse creek beds, through koala hotspots, biodiversity conservation parks, and ultimately, to the finest beach on the Island. We'll enjoy a slow bus trip along West Point Road, exploring all the wild west coast has to offer, including historic and cultural sites. While we have an itinerary, some points of interest will vary according to tides and weather, and can be tailored to suit guest preferences (i.e., mangroves at high or low tide, and waterfalls in or out of the wet season). A well-deserved morning tea is served at the most westerly part of the Island, often in the company of the magnificent White-Bellied Sea Eagle.

Depart Magnetic Island and return to Townsville on the Sealink Ferry.

Travel north from Townsville along the scenic Bruce Highway and experience the highlights of the Great Green Way. Cool off at the Cardwell Spa Pools or detour to the enchanting Paronella Park, where a Spanish-built castle sits amid rainforest gardens and waterfalls. Stop at the Babinda Boulders a stunning rainforest swimming hole, and keep an eye out for cassowaries along the coast near Etty Bay. Continue through lush tropical landscapes, past waterfalls and rainforests, before arriving in Cairns, the tropical gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, the Atherton Tablelands, and the Daintree. Refresh at the Cairns lagoon for a swim or enjoy a bite in town before continuing to Port Douglas.

Port Douglas is a relaxed, tropical sea-side village, where the reef meets the rainforest. A perfect getaway location, it features a great range of restaurants, bars and boutique shopping. Relax by the beach or take a tour of some of Australia's iconic natural wonders, the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef and the World's oldest living rainforest, the Daintree. Go snorkelling or diving, adventure on a mountain bike tour or learn about Indigenous country and culture through immersive experiences.

Port Douglas is a chic, yet relaxed seaside village with a plethora of restaurants and bars, as well as fantastic boutique shopping. The village is also the ideal base to explore three of Australia's most iconic natural attractions - the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest, and Cape Tribulation with an abundance of tours and day trips available. 
Take a day to soak up the beauty, charm, and vibrant atmosphere of Port Douglas at your own pace. Wander along the golden sands of Four Mile Beach, where you can relax, swim, or enjoy a scenic walk with panoramic ocean views. Visit the lively Macrossan Street for boutique shopping, local art galleries, and alfresco dining at some of the region’s finest cafes and restaurants. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, the Wildlife Habitat provides an opportunity to meet native Australian animals, including koalas, kangaroos, and cassowaries, in an immersive environment.  For those seeking adventure, embark on a snorkelling or diving trip to the Great Barrier Reef, where you’ll witness the world’s most vibrant marine ecosystem up close. Alternatively, take a scenic drive to the Daintree Rainforest for a guided tour, river cruise, or self-guided exploration of its ancient landscapes. If relaxation is what you’re after, indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment or enjoy a leisurely sunset sail on the Coral Sea.
Port Douglas offers a blend of natural beauty, luxury, and laid-back charm, making it the perfect destination to explore at your leisure. 

For your experience of a lifetime, Quicksilver’s wave-piercing catamaran and friendly crew will take you to a reef at the very edge of Australia’s Continental Shelf, to an underwater world that is a dazzling kaleidoscope of colour and brilliance.
Choose to dive, snorkel, or stay dry and explore the stunning reef from the comfort of a Quicksilver semi-sub, just one meter underwater. Watch the fish feeding from Quicksilver’s unique underwater viewing platform and underwater observatory. Whichever way you choose, you’ll bring home a lifetime of memories from this living natural wonder.

The world's oldest rainforest by an impressive 10 million years, surviving cataclysmic events that wiped out the dinosaurs, the Daintree exudes ancient energy to those who visit. The traditional custodians of the area, the Kuku Yulanji, have been living in complete harmony with their environment for 50,000 years. Encompassing approximately 1200 square kilometres stretching from the Daintree River to the sea's edge, north to Cooktown and west to the Great Divide, this World Heritage-listed area is the single largest block of tropical rainforest in Australia. With creeping vines, emerald tree canopies and winding rivers below, there are memorable experiences to be gained for all. One of the most well-known natural features of the Daintree is Mossman Gorge, promising breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife and lush rainforest steeped in history and legends that have been passed down through generations. Whether you are seeking luxury, immersive cultural experiences, or something more adventurous, the Daintree has it all.

Expertly guided aboard one of Billy Tea Safari’s custom 4WD vehicles, this immersive wet-tropics experience showcases the flora, fauna and diverse landscapes of the oldest continually surviving rainforest on the planet. Highlights include a scenic coastal drive, Daintree River cruise, guided rainforest walk, lunch in a beautiful rainforest setting, opportunity for an invigorating rainforest swim, free time at Cape Tribulation beach, complimentary tropical fruit ice-cream and a cable ferry crossing of the Daintree River.

This short 70km drive will take you down the Captain Cook Highway to the beautiful city of Cairns. Consider picking up some groceries in Port Douglas and enjoy a picnic on one of the many stunning beaches along your drive. Pebbly Beach, located approximately 15km south of Port Douglas is a bit of a deviation from the standard sandy beaches of the tropical north but is beautiful nonetheless. As the name suggests, the beach is covered with smooth, tiny stones and is popular among motorists to stop and explore.
Your next stop on your drive south will be Rex Lookout, with panoramic views of the Coral Sea and views of Double Island to the south.
Further south, you will reach the beautiful coastal village of Palm Cove. Spend some time wandering the paperbark-lined streets dotted with boutique shops, artisan cafes and restaurants. Finally, pass through Smithfield before getting off the highway and heading into Cairns.

Return your rental vehicle to Cairns Airport terminal before checking in for your flight.

Your tour comes to an end today, but if you are itching to explore more amazing sights throughout Australia, we can customise your holiday to include more days or additional destinations. Our trusted travel specialists can book transfers to your onward flight, and even assist in booking these flights for you. Our team can't wait to help you design your ultimate getaway!