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2 Adults 1 Child
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14 Days / 13 Nights
Experience the very best of Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast on this unforgettable 14 day self drive adventure.
Designed for flexibility, this trip allows you take it slow or pack in as much as possible. The itinerary includes some of the best highlights along the way, but you won’t have time to see everything – and of course, you’re free to make detours and explore at your own pace. If you’d like us to arrange any tickets, just let us know, the choice is entirely yours.
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The cost includes
- 13 Nights Accommodation
- Airport Transfer to Brisbane
- Lone Pine River Cruise
- Tangalooma Day Tour
- 11 Days Car Hire with Full Insurance
Itinerary
Welcome to Brisbane
Brisbane is a riverfront city with year round sunshine and a vibrant South Bank precinct.
★★★★
3 Nights
Oaks Brisbane Festival Suites
2 Bedroom Apartment
1 King + 1 Queen Bed
Great location, just a 5 minute walk from the Botanic Gardens
Morning
Self Guided Tour
20min walk
Cultutal Centre Pontoon
Boarding: 08:30
Departs: 09:00
Returns : 14:45
Lone Pine Return River Cruise
Cruise through the city’s historic landscapes and enjoy 3 hours exploring Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary where you can discover over 70 species of Australian native animals in a beautiful, natural bush setting at the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary.
Highlights include:
• River Cruise with commentary
• Meet the Koalas
• Hand Feed Kangaroos
• Amazing Wildlife
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Mirimar Cruises
Lone Pine Return River Cruise
Voted #1 People’s Choice by Experience Oz as “Best Experience in Australia” in the Cruises – River category, this iconic Koala and River Cruise is one of Brisbane’s most loved experiences and a true must-do while visiting the city.
Cruise along the Brisbane River aboard Mirimar II and enjoy informative commentary as the scenery transitions from city skyscrapers to leafy riverside suburbs and waterside mansions, only accessible by boat.
On arrival, enjoy approximately 3 hours at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary where you can see over 130 koalas, hand-feed kangaroos and emus, watch an authentic sheep dog show, spot a shy platypus, and experience the impressive birds of prey.
Tour Details
Depart Cultural Centre Pontoon 9:00am | Return 2:45pm
Approximate cruise time: 70 minutes each way
On-board café available for morning tea, lunch and snacks (own expense)
Please note: 28 stairs from the boat to the Lone Pine entry gates
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Lone Pine
Experience the unique opportunity to hand-feed free-range kangaroos roaming in their natural surroundings and connect with Australia’s wildlife. Enjoy interactive encounters like Koala Moments, Wild Lorikeet Feeding, Free Flight Raptor Shows, Sheepdog Shows, Croc Talks, and Dingo Talks throughout the day.
With over 90 years of wildlife experience, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary also contributes to vital research and conservation projects. Students, volunteers, and organisations collaborate with our expert team to support koala and wildlife studies, ensuring a lasting impact on preservation and education.
Explore the sanctuary at your own pace daily from 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM*, with scheduled activities such as Koala Moments (10:00 AM – 12:30 PM & 2:00 PM – 3:45 PM), Wild Lorikeet Feeding (9:45 AM & 3:45 PM), Free Flight Raptor Shows (10:30 AM & 1:00 PM), Sheepdog Shows (11:00 AM & 1:30 PM), Koala Talk (11:30 AM), Croc Talk (12:00 PM), and Dingo Talk (2:45 PM). *Subject to weather conditions.
Tour Details
Hand-feed kangaroos in free-range areas
Meet koalas and take memorable photos
Daily wildlife shows and talks throughout the day
Dedicated conservation and research initiatives
Open daily from 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (weather permitting)
Afternoon
Free & Easy
Brisbane South Bank & City Stroll
Wander through Brisbane’s vibrant South Bank, where riverside paths, gardens, and buzzing cafes invite you to slow down and soak it all in. Stroll across the Goodwill Bridge with sweeping city views, then meander through the shady City Botanic Gardens. It’s the perfect way to experience Brisbane’s laid-back charm, all on foot and at your own pace.
Highlights include:
• City Beach
• Goodwill Bridge
• Botanic Gardens
More Southbank Info
South Bank
Brisbane
Venture into South Bank’s pristine Parklands and enjoy a day in one of Brisbane’s most iconic precincts. Swim at the famous Streets Beach, a picturesque pool framed by the city skyline, or relax on nearly 15 hectares of sprawling lawns with free barbeques, licensed picnic areas, and two lively playgrounds.
Stroll along the river-front Clem Jones Promenade or wander beneath South Bank’s striking Arbour – curling steel columns adorned with vibrant magenta bougainvillea flowers – and take in the atmosphere of this vibrant hub.
For a cultural fix, explore South Bank’s Cultural Precinct, featuring the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art, the State Library of Queensland, the Queensland Museum, and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. There’s always something happening with its year-round events calendar and bustling precinct vibe.
Tour Details
Stroll or relax across South Bank’s 15-hectare Parklands
Swim at Streets Beach with city skyline views
Free barbeques, licensed picnic areas, and playgrounds
Explore the Cultural Precinct: art galleries, museum, library, and performing arts
Year-round events and activities for all ages
Self Guided – Shared Transfers
Lunch included
Pickup Time – 08:30
Dropoff Time – 18:00
Marine Discovery Day Cruise
Enjoy a full day at Tangalooma Island Resort starting with a scenic Marine Discovery Cruise to spot dolphins, dugongs, turtles, and more. After the cruise, relax and explore the island with full access to the resort’s pools, restaurants, and bars.
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Tangalooma Resort
Marine Discovery Day Cruise
Cruise out past the wrecks on a pontoon boat in search of dolphins, dugongs, turtles, and more. Glide along the protected Moreton Bay Marine Park with knowledgeable guides providing full local commentary about the island and its marine life. This family-friendly day cruise is perfect for guests of all ages.
All Marine Discovery Day Cruises include a return scenic catamaran across Moreton Bay, onboard tea, coffee or soft drinks, island lunch vouchers, full access to resort facilities including pools, restaurants and bars, and immersive eco experiences such as dolphin feeding, kookaburra feeding, pelican feeding, and sea bird talks.
Guests can also enjoy free activities and workshops, including catamaran briefings, helicopter workshops, motorboat demonstrations, and sports equipment hire. Relax at the resort pools, tennis and squash courts, or let the little ones play at the famous beachside playground. Evening activities like quizzes, bingo, and karaoke provide fun for the whole family.
Tour Details
Return scenic catamaran cruise across Moreton Bay Marine Park
Marine Discovery Cruise with full local commentary
Island lunch voucher included ($25 adult, $20 child)
Resort access including 2 pools, restaurants, bars, playgrounds, and sports courts
Family-friendly eco and wildlife activities: dolphin feeding, pelican feeding, kookaburra feeding, motorboat and catamaran briefings, helicopter workshop
Evening entertainment: quizzes, bingo, horse racing, trivia, karaoke
Optional Tangalooma Tours
A range of alternative tours and upgrades are available including snorkelling, 4WD adventures and dolphin feeding.
5min walk
AVIS Car Hire
Toyota Corolla Auto
Unlimited Kilometres
Full insurance – Zero excess
1hr 30min drive
Australia Zoo
Tickets at own expense
Visit the world famous Australia Zoo, home of the Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin.
Highlights include:
• Crocodile Show
• Wildlife hospital
• African Animals
• Bindi’s Island
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Australia Zoo
Australia Zoo
Australia Zoo aims to be the ultimate global zoological destination and a world leader in wildlife and habitat conservation. Up-close animal encounters allow visitors to connect with wildlife and be inspired to join the mission in conservation.
Learn from passionate keepers about each animal’s personality, witness daily conservation shows, and explore immersive experiences that highlight why every species matters. Engage with the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital through the Sneak Peek experience and see conservation in action.
Visitors of all ages can enjoy Splash Park access, multiple children’s play areas including jumping pillows, and a free shuttle/bus tour to navigate the zoo. Adult, child, concession, and pensioner tickets are available with tailored inclusions for each category.
Tour Details
Access to Australia Zoo and AZWH Sneak Peek
Daily conservation shows
Free shuttle/bus tour across the zoo
Splash Park and multiple children’s play areas
Animal encounters and educational experiences for all ages
Ticket prices: Adults $74.95 | Children (3–14) $49.95 | Concession $64.95 | Pensioner $64.95
45min drive
Welcome to The Sunshine Coast
A laid-back coastal paradise where golden beaches, lush hinterland, and vibrant seaside towns come together for the perfect Aussie getaway.
★★★★
2 Nights
Coco Mooloolaba
2 Bedroom Apartment
Amazing location, and only a short 2 minute stroll to the beautiful Mooloolaba Beach.
Free & Easy
Enjoy a Free & Easy Day exploring Mooloolaba with the following highlights all within walking distance.
Sea Life Center
Sea Life Sunshine Coast houses a vast array of marine and freshwater creatures, such as seals, penguins, stingrays, and tropical fish, with sharks gliding through the magnificent 80-meter Ocean Tunnel.
The Wharf Mooloolaba
With the picturesque Mooloolah River and Marina as its backdrop and a variety of entertainment and dining experiences available, it is the perfect setting for you to connect, create and celebrate life’s simple pleasures.
Mooloolaba Beach
Known for its golden sands, calm surf, vibrant esplanade, and a great mix of cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops along the waterfront.
Free & Easy
The Sunshine Coast offers relaxed shopping with a strong focus on handmade artisan goods, local designers, and boutique coastal stores.
Sunshine Plaza
Sunshine Plaza is the Sunshine Coast’s largest shopping centre, offering a wide mix of major brands, dining options, and waterfront shopping in the heart of Maroochydore.
Eumundi Markets
Weds & Sat 07:00 – 14:00
One of Australia’s largest and most famous artisan markets, known for their huge variety of handmade goods, local designers, street food, and lively atmosphere.
Caloundra Markets
Sun 08:00 – 13:00
Discover the vibrant buzz of the Caloundra Markets, where you can stroll past colourful stalls brimming with local art, farm-fresh produce, and handcrafted treasures. With live music, mouthwatering street food, and a laid-back coastal vibe, it’s the perfect Sunday escape on the Sunshine Coast!
Free & Easy
Take a scenic drive through the Sunshine Coast Hinterland and discover charming towns, lush rainforests, and beautiful gardens.
Montville
Montville is a picturesque Sunshine Coast Hinterland village, famous for its quaint streets, boutique shops, art galleries, and cafés, all set against stunning mountain views.
Maleny
Maleny is a charming Sunshine Coast Hinterland town, known for its scenic views, lush green landscapes, artisan shops, and cozy cafés—a perfect spot to slow down and enjoy local produce and creative markets.
Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World
Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World is a beautiful Sunshine Coast Hinterland attraction, featuring stunning themed gardens, walking trails, and an interactive bird sanctuary where visitors can see and feed a variety of exotic and native birds.
Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is a lush rainforest sanctuary in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, offering walking trails, a treetop viewing platform with panoramic views of the Glass House Mountains, and abundant native wildlife.
Free & Easy
Movie World
Opens: 10:00
Closes: 17:00
2hr drive from Sunshine Coast
Movie World
Tickets at own expense
Step into the world of movie magic at Warner Bros. Movie World – Australia’s ultimate theme park where Hollywood comes to life!
Highlights include:
• Thrilling rides and roller coasters
• Meet your favourite characters up close
• Live shows & performances
30 min drive from Movie World
6 Nights
The Breakers Surfers Paradise
2 Bedroom Apartments
1 Queen + 2 Single Beds
Absolute Beachfront location offering the perfect base to explore all that the Gold Coast has to offer
Free & Easy – Highlights
Our three favourite Gold Coast highlights you won’t want to miss
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Nestled in the heart of the Gold Coast, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike! Get up close with iconic Australian wildlife, from cuddly koalas and playful kangaroos to majestic birds of prey. Perfect for families, this award-winning sanctuary offers a unique blend of conservation, education, and unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime!
Surfers Paradise
Surfers Paradise Beach is the iconic Gold Coast hotspot, famous for its golden sands, bustling beachfront, high-rise skyline, and endless cafés, shops, and entertainment options right along the esplanade.
Skypoint Observation Deck
Discover the best views in Surfers Paradise, extending down to the New South Wales border and out to the magnificent, lush Gold Coast Hinterland. SkyPoint is one of Queensland’s most iconic tourist attractions because it gives every visitor a bird’s eye view of the ‘Famous for Fun’ Gold Coast from a unique vantage point 230 metres above Surfers Paradise.
Free & Easy
1hr drive from Gold Coast
Explore Tambourine Mountain today.
Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk
Experience a breathtaking canopy walk through lush rainforest with scenic views.
Tamborine Mountain Botanic Gardens
Wander through beautifully manicured gardens, featuring themed landscapes and tranquil lakes.
Glow Worm Caves
Your expert guide will lead you across Cedar Creek, onto an elevated timber walkway, and through cool rainforest into a magical cave, where you will witness thousands of Glow Worms illuminating the cave like the night sky.
Thunderbird Park
Enjoy adventure activities like zip-lining, fossicking for treasures at the crystal mine, and exploring the scenic bushland.
Wine Tasting
Discover charming cellar doors & savour award winning wines at Hampton Estate, Witches Falls and Cedar Creek Wineries
Free & Easy
Thrills, shows, and unforgettable family fun await at the Gold Coast’s world famous theme parks.
Dreamworld
Perfect for younger children, featuring kid-friendly rides, adorable characters, and interactive play zones. The park also boasts the popular Wiggles World and ABC Kids World, making it a hit with toddlers and preschoolers.
Paradise Country
For a break from the roller coasters, Paradise Country offers an authentic Aussie farm experience. Kids can meet koalas, feed kangaroos, and even watch live sheep shearing demonstrations.
Wet’n’Wild
Cool off at Wet’n’Wild, one of Australia’s biggest water parks. From adrenaline-pumping water slides to relaxing wave pools, there’s something for every member of the family.
GC Aqua Park
Immerse yourself in a day of thrilling water slides, conquer challenging obstacles, and bounce on expansive inflatable playgrounds.
Free & Easy
Free & Easy
From luxury malls to vibrant markets, the Gold Coast is a shopper’s paradise with something for everyone.
Pacific Fair Shopping Centre
One of the largest shopping centres in Queensland, offering luxury brands, dining, and entertainment.
Harbour Town
An outlet shopping paradise with great deals on top brands.
Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets
Friday and Saturday, 4pm – 9pm
A picturesque market by the beach offering artisan goods and souvenirs.
Carrara Markets
Saturday and Sunday, 8am – 3pm
One of Australia’s largest markets with over 400 stalls.
1hr 30min
Drive to Brisbane Airport
Make sure you go to BNE Airport (not OOL)
Depart BNE 14:45
Pack your bags with unforgettable memories of your amazing Australian adventure.
Safe travels, and we look forward to planning your next trip!
The Cost excludes
- Flights & Visas
- Food and Drinks unless otherwise stated
- Fuel and Parking unless otherwise stated
- Tours & Tickets unless otherwise stated
Information
These are the flights we used for this trip:
Requirements for car hire include:
• All drivers must show a valid driving licence and have held that licence for over 12 months
• The licence must be original and written in English (copies / digital versions will not be accepted)
• A debit / credit card is required for the deposit (phones / contactless methods will not be accepted)
You can secure all your bookings with a refundable 20% deposit, payable by credit or debit card.
The remaining balance is due 30 days before your arrival date.
All travellers need a visa to visit Australia.
The best option is a Subclass 601 ETA Visa, valid for 12 months from issue date.
• Cost: AUD $20 per person
• Apply: use the AustraliaETA app
• Stay: 3 Months each entry
Passports eligible for an ETA include :
Singapore | Hong Kong | Malaysia | South Korea | Taiwan | United States | United Kingdom
If you would like to change the accommodation then let us know.
If you are travelling with children we will arrange for child safety seats as necessary – These are paid for direct at the car pickup desk. The cost is $88 per seat total.
• Children up to 4 years of age require a child safety seat
• Children age 4 to 7 require a child safety seat or booster seat.
• A booster seat is required for any children under 145cm.
We will match any price offered directly by the accommodation, tour, activity, ticket provider, or car hire company at the time of booking.
Simply provide a link or screenshot when you make your booking, and we will adjust the price to match.
Cancellations up to 30 days before travel are issued a full refund, unless otherwise stated.
Everything you need to know is detailed in our Terms & Conditions
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