5 Activities You Just Have to Do on the East Coast of Australia

10 Mar 2020 by Olga Brighton

Travellers Stories

There are many amazing things you can do on the east coast of Australia, however, if you're short for time, on a budget or just want to pick the best activities to do then look no further. Here is a list of my top 5 Australian activities that you just have to do when travelling up or down the east coast:

1. Kayak with dolphins in Byron Bay

East coast kayaking

This was one of the most amazing experiences I've EVER done. Getting so close to these beautiful creatures out at sea, being able to hear them and almost touch them as they gently swim past you is something you'll never forget. Watching them in their natural habitat as they laugh and casually swim up to you, I was in awe. You'll even catch a few turtles and different types of fish swimming by too!

2. Take part in a 4x4 tagalong tour on Fraser Island

Fraser Island is the world's largest sand island and when you're on the boat getting closer and closer to it, it isn't hard to see why. Being able to explore this beautiful island in a 4x4 is incredible. Taking it in turns with others on the trip (you're split into groups of 6) to drive around on the sand and in the rainforest (yes there's a rainforest) is such a thrilling experience. Be sure to head to Lake McKenzie too, you won't believe a lake could have such white sand in between your toes and such clear water to swim in! Also camping under the stars is an unforgettable moment (honestly the best stars I've ever seen!).

3. Sail the Whitsundays

East coast water sports

The Whitsunday Islands - some of the whitest beaches you will ever set foot on - including Whitehaven Beach. Stretching for 7 kms it contains 98% silica, which is among the purest in the world! Make sure to visit the Whitsundays on a sailing boat for the ultimate experience. Soaring through the sea at 90 knots, hanging your legs over the side of the boat while the spray from the sea hits your face is such an incredible moment you won't want to forget!

4. Skydive over Mission Beach

The ultimate activity for the thrill seeker within you! The only place in Australia to skydive with a beach landing. 15,000 feet in the air, those pre-jump nerves will soon be turned into the biggest endorphin rush of your life as you tell yourself you want to go again. And with the Great Barrier Reef in the distance the view going down is just breathtaking.

5. Scuba dive in the Great Barrier Reef

East coast skydiving

You can't come to Australia and not dive or snorkel in the world's largest coral reef system! Always choose a company that practices responsible tourism for your reef experience. That way we will help protect this natural icon for future generations to enjoy. Once you put on your diving gear and begin to head down, it is just the most amazing feeling. The waves above water disappear and you are now submerged in the Great Barrier Reef! You will see hundreds of different species of fish and some of the most colourful corals in the world. You may even spot a Nemo or two! Look out for turtles and reef sharks who also call this place home, but don't worry, they keep to themselves... mostly! For those who aren't so keen on diving, you can always snorkel instead, but just know that diving the Great Barrier Reef is probably something you'll never get to do again, so make the most of it!

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