Byron, Noosa & K'gari made easy. Hop on the Joey bus from Brisbane to Byron Bay for 2 nights and a surf lesson, three nights in Noosa, Rainbow Beach and a 2 night K'gari trip , then back to Brisbane. Transport, stays & activities sorted.
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Itinerary
Day 1
Brisbane to Byron Bay
Pack your bags and get ready to roll. Jump on the Joey Bus departing Brisbane at 12:45 for the run down to Byron Bay, arriving at 15:50. Check into WakeUp Byron Bay, your home for the next three nights. Get settled in, find your dorm crew, and ease into that unmistakable Byron vibe. Hit the main beach to watch the sun go down, scope out Jonson Street for dinner, or just sit back and let Byron do its thing. It works fast.
Day 2
Byron Bay
Rise and shine, it's time to hit the water. Today you've got a surf lesson lined up, and Byron's gentle beach breaks are about as good as it gets for getting up on a board. Whether you're a complete beginner or you've had a go before, your instructor will have you catching waves before the session's out. Wipe-outs included, no extra charge. The rest of the day is yours. Hike up to the Cape Byron Lighthouse for the best views on the coast, browse the markets, find a cafe on the hinterland strip, or just park yourself on the beach and watch the world drift by.
Day 3
Byron Bay
A bonus day in one of Australia's most loved beach towns. No agenda, no rush. If you haven't done the Cape Byron Lighthouse walk yet, today's your chance. It's a 3.7km loop with ocean views the whole way, and dolphins are basically guaranteed if you time it right. The lighthouse marks the most easterly point on the Australian mainland, which is a solid fact to drop later. Or just spend the day at the beach. Hire a board, wander the Arts and Industry Estate, find a hammock somewhere in the hinterland. Byron rewards people who slow down.
Day 4
Byron Bay to Noosa
Early start today. Board the Joey Bus at Byron Bay at 09:10 for the run up to Noosa, arriving at 15:20. Check into Bounce Noosa, your base for the next three nights. Unpack, and head into town to take your first walk down Hastings Street. It's the kind of place that takes about ten minutes to fall in love with. Noosa has a national park on one doorstep and a perfect beach on the other. Spend your first evening exploring, grab dinner somewhere on the main strip, and get ready for a big few days ahead.
Day 5
Waterfalls Trip
This afternoon you're joining the Joey crew for a trip to Buderim Falls, one of the Sunshine Coast's best-kept secrets. Pick-up from Bounce Hostel at 12:10pm (also picking up from Noosa Heads Bus Station at 12:30pm). By early afternoon you'll be at the falls, swimming in natural rock pools, relaxing under the waterfall, and taking in the lush rainforest surrounds. It's exactly the kind of afternoon this trip was built around. On the way back, you'll stop at the iconic Peregian Beach Hotel where a complimentary drink is included. Stick around for some optional food and more drinks before the bus heads back to Noosa, with drop-offs wrapping up around 5:30pm. A proper afternoon out.
Day 6
Noosa
Your day to do exactly what you want with. The coastal walk through Noosa National Park to Hell's Gates and back is one of the best short hikes on the east coast. Views, dolphins, kangaroos, the whole package. Give yourself a couple of hours and take it slow. If markets are your thing, check whether it's an Eumundi day. The Wednesday and Saturday markets are some of the best in Queensland. Or grab a kayak and paddle out through the Noosa Everglades. Hard to beat.
Day 7
Noosa to Rainbow Beach
Today you make the move to Rainbow Beach, your gateway to K'gari. Board the Joey Bus at Noosa at 15:20 and roll into Rainbow Beach at 16:50. Check into Freedom Rainbow Beach and take a walk up to Carlo Sand Blow. The coloured sand cliffs here are unlike anything else on the coast, and the views out over the ocean at sunset make the short walk worth it every time. Get a good feed, pack your bag light for the island, and get an early night. Your three-day K'gari adventure starts tomorrow.
Day 8
K'gari Day One
Welcome to K'gari. The world's largest sand island, entirely World Heritage listed, and genuinely like nowhere else on earth. You'll be joining a tag-along camping tour for the next three days, exploring the island with a group and a guide who knows every corner of it. Today you'll get out onto the island and start ticking off the highlights. Leave your bags in hostel luggage storage and get ready to hit the road. The Maheno Shipwreck is one of the island's most recognisable landmarks. A Scottish ocean liner that was being towed to Japan for scrap metal in 1935 when a cyclone drove it onto the beach. It's been rusting in the sand ever since, and it's a seriously impressive sight up close. You'll also visit the Champagne Pools, natural rock pools right on the ocean's edge where waves crash in and fizz like, well, champagne. They're the only safe place to swim in the ocean on K'gari, and they're spectacular. Tonight you're sleeping in a tent under the stars on the island. Look up.
Day 9
K'gari Day two
Another full day on the island, and today the freshwater highlights are on the agenda. Lake McKenzie is the one everyone talks about, and for good reason. A perched freshwater lake sitting high in the dunes, ringed by white silica sand and surrounded by bush. The water is crystal clear and soft on the skin because of the almost zero mineral content. No fish, no seaweed, just you and one of the most beautiful swimming spots in the country. Eli Creek is worth every minute too. Float downstream through the largest freshwater creek on the east coast of the island and let the current carry you. It sounds simple, but it's genuinely one of those experiences that sticks with you. The order of stops may shift depending on the tour, but every highlight gets covered. Another night under the island sky.
Day 10
K'gari day three
Last morning on the island. Take a final wander, soak it in, and say goodbye to K'gari properly. Three days goes fast out here. The tour wraps up back at Rainbow Beach, where you'll board the Joey Bus at 17:00 for the run back to Noosa, arriving at 18:45. One last night at Bounce Noosa. Grab dinner, swap stories from the island with whoever's around, and start thinking about how you're going to explain K'gari to people who haven't been.
Day 11
Noosa to Brisbane
Last morning. Grab a final coffee on Hastings Street, swap numbers with the people you haven't already, and load up for the run home. Board the Joey Bus at Noosa at 09:55 and arrive back into Brisbane at 12:15. Eleven days, five stops, one seriously good lap of the east coast. Whether you're flying out, heading somewhere new, or already planning the next trip, you've done it right. See you on the bus.
FAQ
Preparing for the trip
Do I need travel insurance?
Insurance is important in protecting visitors from loss or damange of goods, medical problems, cancelation by passengers or other casualties. Its highly recommended. Some tours on this website require you to have travel insurance. If you are Australian then it is not necessary.
Where can I get more information about this trip?
If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have.
What immunisations do I need?
For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.
Do I need to take any medical supplies?
It is not necessary to bring any medical supplies other than any personal items you may require. Each tour carries a first aid box, and the tour guides are all certified in First Aid.
Will I be able to use my mobile whilst on tour?
You can use your mobile while touring in Australia or New Zealand, but coverage may be limited in remote areas. For best connectivity, consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international roaming plan.
How fit do I need to be?
These tours are designed to be fun, informative and active, and can be enjoyed by anyone with a moderate degree of fitness and agility. Travellers should be comfortable with hiking or walking up to 5km each day.
What should I pack?
Depending on where in Australia or New Zealand you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.
Private tours and families
Is it possible to travel in a private group?
If you are looking for a private tour based on one of these trips, please contact us directly and we may be able to help. Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip.
Booking the trip
Do I have to book this tour online?
Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.
If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?
Absolutely! If you are booking multiple tours then we may be able to offer you a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.
Does the tour price include flights?
No. Tour prices do not include any travel arrangements other than for the duration of the tour itself. If you need assistance with booking flights or buses our travel team and certainly help - Just ask!
How far in advance do I need to book my tour?
As a rule of thumb, try to book at least 2 weeks prior to departure, this will usually get you a seat on the date you want. That being said, we cannot guarantee that spaces will be available at the time of your booking so, if you can, book as soon as possible. Bookings can still be made right up until the departure date of the tour if seats are available. If you know when you'd like to travel, please contact us and we will let you know if you need to book soon or if you have time.
How do I know when a tour is available?
You can check the departure dates of tours by using our calendar on the top right hand corner of the tour page. This will tell you what days the tour departs. For availability of seats please contact us directly at info@lostinaustralia.org or call us.
If I make a deposit only, when will I need to pay the balance?
Balance on tours need to be paid at least 30 days prior to departure. Failure to do so could result is the cancellation of your seat with a fee charged. If you need more time to clear your balance then let us know ASAP and arrangements can be made.
Who travels with us
Is it ok to travel alone on one of these tours?
Plenty of travellers book these tours on their own. Solo travellers are very much welcomed and encouraged. During your outback adventure you'll meet new and interesting people and forge relationships that last a lifetime.Solo travellers will usually share a room with a travelling companion of the same sex, but even if you do get your own room you won't be charged extra. On camping tours there are generally enough tents available that you can have your own if you choose to.For more information please contact us directly.
Cost and Fees
Do I need to tip the guide?
If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip your guide, that is completely up to you. Tipping is not customary in Australia and is not at all expected.
Will I need additional money?
Travellers are advised to bring some cash, as ATMs and banks can be few and far between in the remote parts of the trip. It is handy to have some extra cash, as the tour does stop by local shops and cafes.
Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?
Our tour prices are completely transparent. There are no additional fees involved that are not included in the overall tour price shown. If you wish to do optional activities such as helicopter rides or wildlife safaris, then an extra cost may be needed. However, this will always be made clear at the time of your booking.
What does Paid Locally mean?
Some tours require you to pay national park fees directly, in cash, to the tour guide on the morning of departure. Rest assured this will be subtracted from the tour price when reserving your tour.
Whilst on tour
Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?
We know our country inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations. Please contact us for recommendations.
Where do I meet the tour?
For pick-up times and locations, please check the "Start/Finish" section directly under the itinerary, which lists every pick-up point and its time.There is a lot of information there to help you plan your flights and arrival.Please review it carefully, as pick-ups can vary from tour to tour.







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