Explore Legendary Pacific Coast
The Legendary Pacific Coast is one of Australia's most scenic and unforgettable road trips, stretching from Sydney in New South Wales to Brisbane in Queensland. This iconic route is famous for its stunning coastal landscapes, beautiful beaches, vibrant towns, and diverse wildlife. It is a must-do for travellers looking to explore the best of Australia's eastern coastline. On the 1,000km journey, you'll discover the renowned vineyards of Hunter Valley, the expansive dunes of Port Stephens, and the pristine beaches of Byron Bay, all while enjoying unforgettable wildlife experiences along the way.
The best time to visit
While the route can be driven year-round, the best time to visit is during spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May), when the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner than in the summer months.
The Roadtrip Day 1 - Day 3: Sydney
Where To Stay
Park Hyatt Sydney
Capella Sydney
Intercontinental Sydney
Crown Towers Sydney
What To Do
Ride a seaplane to lunch
For an unforgettable Sydney experience, ride a seaplane with breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour, Northern Beaches, and Barrenjoey Lighthouse. Just when you think it can’t get better, arrive at Jonah’s, a restaurant with mesmerising views as far as you can see. Led by Executive Chef Rey Ambas and Food & Beverage Director Niels Sluiman, this award-winning restaurant serves top-tier Contemporary Australian cuisine.
Learn to make aboriginal art at a workshop in Sydney
Led by experienced Aboriginal artists, this hands-on experience offers participants the opportunity to explore traditional painting methods, storytelling through art, and the cultural significance behind each symbol and pattern.
Day 4 & 6: Bouddi Peninsula
Where To Stay
Pretty Beach House
What To Do
Get up close with Indigenous wildlife with a private ranger
Australian Walkabout Park is a fantastic way to experience Australia’s unique wildlife up close, and it’s located just 30 minutes from the Bouddi Peninsula. ATD can organise a Private Ranger Tour which can enhance your visit by offering an exclusive, tailored experience, During the Private Ranger experience, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with iconic Australian animals, such as kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, emus, and a variety of native bird species. Your ranger will guide you to different animal enclosures, and you can ask all your questions about these fascinating creatures.
Learn the ways of the Aboriginal tribe
The Indigenous Welcome Experience is a unique cultural exchange—not just a sightseeing tour. It’s a chance to listen, learn, and reflect on the history, spirituality, and ongoing cultural practices of the Aboriginal people. It can be deeply moving and transformative, offering visitors a chance to step into an entirely different worldview.
Day 7: Port Stephens
Where To Stay
The Anchorage
Amarna Luxury Beach Resort
Bannisters Port Stephens
What To Do
Watch humpback whales in Nelson Bay
Port Stephens is one of the best places in Australia for whale watching, thanks to its location on the New South Wales coast. Every year, thousands of humpback whales and southern right whales make their annual migration along the East Coast of Australia, passing through the waters off Port Stephens between May and November.
Quadbike along Stockton Beach
Quad biking in Port Stephens is an exhilarating way to explore the stunning landscape of the region. Known for its vast dunes, bushland, and scenic coastlines, Port Stephens offers some of the best spots for an off-road adventure. Go on a guided quad biking experience through the famous Stockton Beach dunes. The dunes are massive, offering both challenging and scenic terrain, perfect for adrenaline junkies.
Day 8 & 9: Hunter Valley
Where To Stay
Spicers Vineyard Estate
Hunter Valley Resort
Tower Lodge
Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort
What To Do
Stomp grapes while you enjoy live music
During harvest season, which runs from January to April, you can stomp grapes while you enjoy live music and picnics by the rolling green vineyards.
Soar high in a hot-air balloon above Hunter Valley
A hot air balloon ride in the Hunter Valley is one of the most breathtaking and serene ways to experience the region’s landscapes. Floating high above the valley, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the vineyards, hills, and the iconic Brokenback Range.
Day 10: Coffs Harbour
Where To Stay
The Pier Hotel
What To Do
Trike ride along the Coffs Coast
Imagine cruising along scenic roads, feeling the breeze on your face, and taking in sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, lush hinterland, and dramatic cliffs—all from the comfort of a three-wheeled motorbike. A trike ride on the Coffs Coast is a unique way to experience the coastal beauty.
Day 11-13: Byron Bay
Where To Stay
Blackbird Byron
Raes on Wategos
Elements of Byron
Crystalbrook Byron
What To Do
Hunt for black truffles
This experience combines the thrill of truffle hunting with a delicious culinary experience. You’ll walk through the truffle orchard with trained dogs, who are experts at sniffing out these precious fungi. After the hunt, most experiences include a gourmet lunch or tasting session featuring freshly harvested truffles, as well as other locally produced products like wine, cheese, and other gourmet items.
Shuck your oysters and eat them too
Byron Bay, renowned for its stunning beaches and laid-back vibe, is also home to a thriving oyster farming industry that draws on the clean, nutrient-rich waters of the Cape Byron Marine Park. Whether you are paddling through calm estuaries on a kayak tour, learning about sustainable farming practices, or tasting oysters straight from the water, the experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the region's rich marine culture.
