Australia

G’day and welcome to Sydney! Upon arrival, head over to the rental car collection desk to collect your vehicle. Today, take the Pacific Highway to travel north of Sydney to get to Port Stephens. Port Stephens is only a 2 hour drive from Sydney. Its beautiful white beaches, crystal waters, and subtropical climate make Port Stephens a popular destination for the local Sydneysiders. Port Stephens is also known for its fresh seafood and its oysters. While you’re there, you may wish to visit Nelson Bay and take one of the dolphin watch cruises which depart regularly. Also, you may want to try out some of the activities which include water sports, golf, fishing, and bush walking. Accommodation: Port Stephens – Best Western Tea Gardens Club Inn

Spend today in Port Stephens relaxing or you may choose to keep yourself active with the many activities including golf, fishing, whale watching (subject to season), dolphin watch, or diving. You may also wish to board the ‘Imagine’ Vessel for an ecotourism cruise which include the tours Dolphin & Island Discover, Dolphin Watch, Whale Watch (seasonal) or Sunset Sail. Accommodation: Port Stephens – Best Western Tea Gardens Club Inn

This morning, continue your journey north to arrive at the town of Port Macquarie. Established in 1821, Port Macquarie is host to a mix of colonial history and pristine endless beaches. There are many heritage buildings such as old churches and courthouses, and many koalas to be seen in the surrounding forests. You may wish to do some of the may water sports available, or you may choose to board cruises on the Hastings River. Accommodation: Port Macquarie – Best Western Palm Court Motor Inn

Its time to leave Port Macquarie and get back on the Pacific Highway towards Coffs Harbour. This area is known for its many crescent-shaped beaches, a temperate climate all year round, which make the area perfect for water sports. Coffs Harbour is also known for it produce, which include banana and avocado plantations, and timber production in surrounding areas. Walk along Muttonbird Island National Park on northern sea wall of the harbour, which provides a fantastic vantage point to view the annual migration of humpback whales (May-Dec). You may wish to visit Pet Porpoise Pool to watch performing porpoises & seals. Accommodation: Coffs Harbour - Best Western Zebra Motel

Today, your onward journey north will take you to Byron Bay, a well known beach area popular to surfers. Venture to Cape Byron, the most easterly point of the Australian continent. Visit the Cape Byron Lighthouse for breathtaking views of the ocean and sightings of playful dolphins or whales migrating. Accommodation: Byron Bay – Breakfree Eco Beach

Relax at Byron Bay, and you may wish to enjoy the many activities available, such as bush walking, horse riding, fishing, swimming, scuba diving, or skydiving. If you happen to be at Byron Bay on the first Sunday of the month, visit the Market for interesting items. Accommodation: Byron Bay – Breakfree Eco Beach

Continue on north toward the town of Tweed Heads and Coolangatta. Then, make your way further up to Surfers Paradise or Gold Coast. Gold Coast is known for its famous beaches, and also for some of Australia’s best theme parks. You may also wish to continue to travel to near by Brisbane, which is known for its relaxed atmosphere. Accommodation: Gold Coast – Hotel Watermark Surfers Paradise

Breakfast at accommodation. Check out of your hotel. It is time to say good-bye to Gold Coast. Drive away to catch your onward flight. Upon arrival at airport, return your vehicle to Airport Depot.