East Coast Escape

Ever wondered why Australia’s East Coast is so notorious? You’ll see why on this 15-day escape visiting Byron Bay, Brisbane, Oak Beach, Haggerstone Island, and Sydney.

Byron Bay: Day 1 to 4

Welcome to Oz! After arriving in Sydney, you will connect to Ballina Airport where your East Coast Escape begins in Byron Bay. Bryon is the epitome of the Aussie Beach life! Located on Australia’s most easterly point you will be surrounded by beautiful beaches, rolling surf breaks, and lush rainforests. Your barefoot luxury experience awaits staying at the newly opened, Elements of Byron Bay Resort & Spa, happily calling the beachside villa home for the next few days. Recover from jet lag with a sunrise yoga, ensuring a centered start to your holiday. In the afternoon, grab your surfboard and paddle out on the Pacific, where your local surf instructor will have you standing up and surfing waves in no time. Explore this bohemian chic town, full of character and alternative culture, shopping your way through the boutique and local markets. Back at Elements, meander through the nature trails seeing the unique flora and fauna, understanding why Byron is one of the most beautiful destinations on the planet.

Brisbane: Day 4 to 6

Bye, Bye to Byron Bay. Begin your leisurely drive, through the Gold Coast making a stop at Burleigh Heads Beach, a local’s favorite, where you can enjoy a beach walk and a romantic picnic. Head to Brisbane, staying at Spicers Balfour Hotel, located in the charming suburb of New Farm. You’ll be happy you escaped the city, staying at this esteemed Queenslander boutique hotel. For sundown, head up to the rooftop bar taking in stunning views of Brisbane’s skyline including Story Bridge, while enjoying a cocktail of your choice. Tonight you’re in for a treat at Balfour Kitchen, dinner will be a 3 course pairing menu crafted by the head chef, tantalizing all your taste buds. Today explore the city, making a stop at the Gallery of Modern Art in South Bank, or go shopping on James St. offering boutique shops and stylish restaurants. Tonight, we will make reservations at one of the award-winning restaurants on Eagles St. Pier offering views of the Brisbane River.

Oak Beach: Day 6 to 9

Next, fly from Brisbane to Cairns, hopping in your rental car and heading up the coast past Palm Cove to Thala Beach Nature Reserve at Oak Beach. This eco-friendly property lays on 145 acres, with nearly 2 miles of untouched coastline. Your Sandpiper Suite is perfectly positioned on the edge of two of the world’s natural treasures, The Great Barrier Reef and The World Heritage Daintree Rainforest. Your day will start by exploring the world’s longest reef. Board your yacht cruising the low isles, enjoy time at the protected Coral Cay, where you can snorkel the reefs or kick back relaxing on the beaches of your private island. Enjoy a gourmet lunch before sailing back to Port Douglas, where you can stroll around Macrossan Street having a night bite before retreating to your treehouse. Also, consider a guided sea kayaking adventure encountering Marine life or pampering yourself at the spa and taking in the beauty of Thala.

Haggerstone Island: Day 9 to 13

Think Robinson Crusoe an impulsive nomad. From Cairns, fly charter to the remote and rugged Cape York Peninsula taking in the beautiful scenic sights. Land at the one and only, all-inclusive Haggertone Island, Great Barrier Reef’s private island. Here at this luxury nature retreat, you can do as little or as much as you’d like. The remote location of the island offers the most magnificent coral gardens, marine, bird life, even an 1840’s shipwreck. Your hand-crafted driftwood, open-aired beach hut is literally on the beach! Ever dreamed of showering outside amid a coconut forest? Or how about enjoying a private bonfire? Check, check. Situated on the beach, enjoy unforgettable sunrises while listening to the waves, and songbirds in the background. Enjoy the day onboard Jo Jo III, the island 40ft boat, where you will try your hand at deep sea, spear or river fishing where you can cook up your catch for a unique dinner experience. Or sail to the Outer Barrier Reef to one of the largest Green Turtle breeding colonies. Haggerstone Island has it all, miles of pristine beaches, the perfect tropical climate, adventurous exploration, remote isolation, this is one of Australia’s most unforgettable experiences.

Sydney: Day 13 to 15

Don’t wave good-bye yet to your eastern escape, until you’ve seen the iconic city of Sydney. Made up of diverse urban villages you will base yourself in Potts Point, an ideal location for those that don’t wish to stay in the heart of the tourist action. You’ll check into the Ovolo Woolloomooloo (try saying that one five times fast), a stylish Heritage Listed boutique hotel bridging Sydney’s wharf history with modern luxuries. Tired from your travel day, enjoy complimentary happy hour at your hotel before dinning at the nearby China Doll, one of Sydney’s finest, delivery the ultimate dining experience. Explore the city with an insider, not only seeing the tourist icons but also the cities’ hidden gems capturing the heart of the city. Before you know it, pack up, ending this epic East Coast Escape.