9 Days: Hamilton Island and Gold Coast [ST-TA86]
Starting at
$2,481
Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Hamilton Island (4 Nights), Gold Coast (3)
  • US Domestic Flights are not included in starting price but may be added upon request. This inclusion will be reflected in your quote.
  • International Flights - Los Angeles to Hamilton Island via Brisbane, Brisbane to Los Angeles - are not included in starting price but may be added upon request. This inclusion will be reflected in your quote.
  • Australian Domestic Flights - Hamilton Island to Brisbane
  • Shuttle Transfers - Brisbane Airport to Gold Coast Accommodation (Return)
  • Day Tours - Hamilton Island: Great Barrier Reef Cruise, Whitehaven Beach Adventure; Gold Coast: Byron Bay
  • All other Day Tours listed are Optional (Not Included)
  • Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (additional US$15.00 per person)
  • F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organized Group Tour)
  • All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
  • Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.
Itinerary Details
(Day 1) - Hometown to Los Angeles (Check quote for inclusion)

Travel by domestic air to your destination.

If you request US domestic air pricing, this inclusion will be reflected in your quote.

(Day 1) - International Flight, Los Angeles to Brisbane (Check quote for inclusion)

Departure from US arriving in Brisbane via Virgin Australia Boeing 777.

In-flight meal along with beverages served throughout the flight. Enjoy award-winning In-flight entertainment with individual seat back screens featuring movies, music and more. Upgrades to ‘The Business’ and Premium are available upon request.
Note: You lose one day crossing the International Date Line but don’t worry, you catch it up again on your return flight to the USA.

(Day 2) - Domestic Flight, Brisbane to Hamilton Island

Your flight with take you direct from Brisbane to Hamilton Island Airport.

(Days 2 to 6) - 4 Nights Accommodation on Hamilton Island with Tour Package

You will be taken by shuttle to your 4-star accommodation on Hamilton Island, Australia where you will be staying for 4 nights.

Your hotel features extremely spacious, well-appointed rooms all with private balconies overlooking either landscaped gardens or the breathtaking vista of the Coral Sea. The hotel has its own swimming pool, lounge, restaurant, concierge and tour desk, and complimentary guest access to the Hamilton Island Sports Club.

Whether you’re looking to do plenty, or nothing at all, Hamilton Island is the ultimate getaway.

Perfectly located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island is nestled amongst the 74 Whitsunday Islands. Enjoy the beautiful weather, natural surroundings, flora and fauna, diving, sailing, bushwalking, fine food and wine and more.

Your special package includes breakfast daily, a half day tour to Whitehaven Beach with Cruise Whitsundays, a half day cruise to Whitehaven Beach with Cruise Whitsundays, weekly entry to WILD LIFE Hamilton Island, and complimentary use of non-motorized watersports, gym, spa, sauna and tennis courts, and return airport transfers.

Day Tour, Great Barrier Reef Cruise – Full Day

Experience the best of the Whitsundays by taking a cruise out to the Great Barrier Reef.

Your trip begins this morning on a high speed catamaran with spacious air-conditioned lounges, large outer viewing decks, bars serving refreshments and comfortable seating. The journey to and from the reef is all part of the experience. You’ll pass spectacular islands and bays and at certain times of the year you’ll have the chance to spot whales and other wild life.


You’ll spend today snorkeling, eating, and enjoying the majestic Great Barrier Reef on a pontoon at two possible reef sites. The pontoons have a choice of areas to relax and a great range of activities. There is undercover seating and tables, sun decks for topping up the tan, freshwater showers, change rooms and full access to the air conditioned comfort of our reef vessel. There are numerous ways to explore the reef, from the underwater viewing chamber, to the semi-submersible submarines, or snorkelling like a fish beneath the sea!
The pontoons are adjacent to coral walls, the length of which you can explore. The sites have their own ecosystem with magnificent corals and a diversity of marine life found only in sheltered areas, providing a unique world for you to explore. The prolific fish life will surprise and delight you – especially the giant groper!

Morning tea, afternoon tea and a sumptuous buffet lunch are included. Leading and award winning restaurants from Airlie Beach supply our catering, taking care to base the menu on seasonality and the best produce available. Free tea and coffee is available and there is also a bar onboard serving a full range of alcoholic and soft drinks.

Morning Tour, Whitehaven Beach Adventure – Half Day

Whitsunday Islands, Australia
Visit magnificent Whitehaven Beach with its white silica sands, explore secluded bays with crystal clear waters and enjoy swimming and snorkeling during the day.

On the eastern side of the uninhabited Whitsunday Island see nature at its unspoiled, spectacular best. Magical Whitehaven Beach is considered one of the top 10 beaches in the world and one of the must see icons of the Whitsundays.


With 7 kilometers of glistening pure white natural silica sand, enjoy beach activities, take a leisurely stroll and explore, swim in the crystal clear waters or simply lay back under the sun shelters and enjoy a good book!

Board a high speed, air-conditioned catamaran and keep an eye out for dolphins, turtles and whales (June to September) as you cruise through the calm, turquoise waters. Our experienced crew will provide a thorough commentary on the geographical surroundings and history of the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Whitehaven Beach is located in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. It’s a protected area, so please ensure you take nothing away from the beach with you except photos and memories, and please make sure you don’t leave any rubbish behind. Please leave it as you found it, which is picture perfect!

(Day 5) - Free Day to Explore Hamilton Island

Spend the day to relax or explore Hamilton Island

Perfectly situated on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef, amongst Queensland’s 74 Whitsunday Islands, Hamilton Island offers an experience like no other: glorious weather, azure waters, brilliant beaches, awe-inspiring coral reefs, fascinating flora and fauna, fine food and wines, and activities almost too numerous to mention.

Hamilton Island offers a variety of free activities, suitable for guests of all ages. Make a splash at any of the three resort pools. Get competitive on Catseye Beach with a variety of games led by the Activities Team including the popular Kids Fun Zone. Challenge yourself to a round of Trivia or Family Feud, or if you’re looking for a more physical challenge, explore Hamilton Island by foot with a range of scenic walking trails. There’s also evening entertainment including Moonlight Movies or live music by the marina. For specific times and days, ask the front desk for the Weekly Activity Guide.

Other Activities (at your own expense) Include:
– Sunset Sail around the Whitsunday Islands
– See the Whitsundays by Helicopter
– Hire a Dinghy for fishing and/or exploring by sea
– Hire a Buggy (Golf Cart) to explore the island
– Off Road Adventure tours
– Go Kart Racing
– Mini Golf
– Driving Range
– Hamilton Island Golf Club – One of Australia’s finest Golf Courses
– Helicopter to Heart Reef
– Snorkel The Great Barrier Reef
– Visit Whitehaven Beach
– Relax at the Spa
– Visit Hamilton Island Wildlife and cuddle a Koala
– Take a Turtle Discovery Tour

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Koala Encounter

Experience the Wild side of Hamilton Island, with this up close and personal encounter to all kinds of Australian animals.

Conveniently located on the resort side of the island, WILD LIFE Hamilton Island lets you get up close and personal encounter to all kinds of Australian animals.

Explore the park, go on one of the many guided tours with expert keepers or stroll through the park at your own pace! It’s a eye-opening and fun experience for visitors of all ages.

One of the only places in Australia where you’ll be able to cuddle a Koala! You don’t want to miss this Koala Encounter.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Heart Reef Heli

Experience the gorgeous views of the Great Barrier Reef on this heli ride over the waters.

Be lifted in body and spirit as you experience one of the most breathtaking views over Heart Reef Whitsunday Island and Hill Inlet.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Sunset Sailing Adventure

Soak up the peace and tranquillity of a Whitsunday sunset whilst sailing. A great way to experience sailing around the sheltered waters surrounding Hamilton Island, whilst enjoying canapés and sipping a glass of champagne.

If you enjoy a gentle afternoon sail while soaking up the peace and tranquility of a Whitsunday sunset, then this is just the cruise for you! This cruise operates in the sheltered waters surrounding Hamilton Island so it is a great way to experience sailing while sipping on a glass of sparkling!

Included in your cruise is 1.5hrs of sailing, informative commentary of the Whitsundays, complimentary beer, wine, sparkling and a light nibbles platter – just the sort of thing to start your night or finish your fun filled day on Hamilton Island.

Photo Credit: Tourism Queensland

(Day 6) - Australian Domestic Flight, Hamilton Island to Brisbane

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Hamilton Island to Brisbane.

(Day 6) - Shuttle Transfer, Brisbane Airport to Gold Coast Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from Brisbane Airport to your Gold Coast vacation accommodation. (Estimated travel time is 1.5 hours.)

Luggage is limited to 2 suitcases per person. Excess luggage, surfboards & bicycles will be carried at a rate of $10.00 AUD per item. All luggage must be clearly labelled by the passenger, including name and full address. Valuable items (e.g. jewellery, expensive equipment, cash etc) should be carried by the passenger on their person. Passengers are strongly advised to take out appropriate travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances.

(Days 6 to 9) - 3 Nights Accommodation on the Gold Coast

Travel to your accommodation on the Gold Coast, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 3 nights.

Your 4 1/2 Star vacation accommodation brings a new level of comfort and style to the heart of the boutique destination of Broadbeach, Australia. Just one block from patrolled surf beaches overlooking Victoria Park and directly opposite the casino and Gold Coast Convention Centre, the vacation property perfectly embodies the Mantra philosophy of providing unforgettable holidays in prime positions. Offering a range of first class facilities for guests to tailor their vacation and enhance their resort experience, the accommodation features spacious one, two and three bedroom apartments, a heated pool, 25 metre lap pool, fully equipped gymnasium, steam room, sauna & spa, barbecue area, conference facilities, games room and more.

(Day 7) - Day Tour, Byron Bay

Cosmopolitan, alternative and charming, the culture and lifestyle offered by Byron Bay is welcoming and easy to fall in love with. From the crystal clear Pacific Ocean surf breaks and swimming beaches to sub-tropical hinterland there is a ton to explore in this coastal paradise in the water or on the land – Shop, swim, surf, relax, dine, explore.

This trendy town has an international allure offering unique shopping, pristine beaches, market stalls, fun activities for every budget, a beachside Aussie pub, and quality dining choices to suit every nationality. Stroll on the beach or put your feet up at a chic cafe and enjoy the beautiful scenery unfold around you.

Towering above the ocean is the Byron Bay Lighthouse. Standing on a bald rocky cliff, this working lighthouse marks the eastern most point of the Australian continent. Built in 1901, visitors can walk on the headland, get their bearings, and spot wildlife. The lighthouse is situated 2 miles northeast of the township of Byron Bay.

Operates
Sundays (except Christmas Day, Anzac Day, and Easter)
Departs 8:00am, Returns 4:30pm (approx.)

Includes
– Return transfers from hotel
– Cape Byron Lighthouse visit (1 hour)
– Approximately 4.5 hours (dependent on weather and road conditions) in Byron Bay Township to surf, shop, swim, snorkel, and/or hike before departure

Need to Know
Please bring money for the cafes. Please wear weather appropriate clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and a hat. Please bring a water bottle, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen.

(Day 8) - Free Day to Explore the Gold Coast

With so much to see and do take the day to explore the many unforgettable moments of the Gold Coast!

You have your pick from action and adventure, pampering at a spa or follow your hunger on the Food & Wine Trail. Go ahead and dance til the sun comes up at Surfer’s Paradise, venture out to the deserted South Stradbroke Island or head to the lush rainforests of Lamington National Park. With easy access to Mount Tamborine, Byron Bay and the Natural Arch it makes this area the perfect spot to explore the many natural wonders. Don’t hesistate to check out the many beaches each with their own unique flavor!

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Catch a Crab Tour

From the moment you step on board our specially designed river cruiser you can take part in a range of activities such as feeding pelicans, yabbie pumping, fishing and trapping for crabs.

The highlight of the day for most of our guests is the thrill of pulling up the crab pot with its lively catch of the most sought after seafood delicacies – the Queensland mud crab, and other crabs in season. If you prefer, you can simply sitting back and enjoy the spectacular natural beauty of the tranquil and safe Terranora inlet, on the Tweed River. Tour includes a stop at the famous Terranora rock oyster leases and the opportunity to purchase oysters fresh from the farm.

Don’t forget to bring shorts and towel (for yabbie pumping), your camera, and binoculars if you’re a keen bird watcher! 3 Hour Catch-a-Crab tour including fishing rods, bait and all equipment supplied for activities, plus delicious morning tea. For seafood lovers, choose from whole freshly cooked mud crab OR crab platter duo of mud and spanner crab, cooked on board by your captain, served cracked with lemon wedges and dressing, and accompanied by garden salads and crusty breads.

Optional Morning Tour (Not Included) - Hot Air Balloon Ride

Enjoy the experience of a lifetime with this half day tour including a hot air balloon ride and delicious hot champagne breakfast!

Whether this is your first or one of many, this balloon ride is sure to be one of your favorites with a fun and highly trained crew to help maximize your fun.

Always a surprise, always an impressive sight. You’ll arrive at the launch site after a coach transfer, to see the amazing hot air balloon inflation display, taller than a 10 story building!

Hop on-board to experience the fun & unique sensation of your first Gold Coast hot air balloon ride, floating gently above the spectacular Gold Coast Hinterland, in Queensland, Australia. So much to see, but often it’s the sensation of floating silently over this picturesque landscape at sunrise on your hot air balloon flight, that really makes this such a special time. Breathe in the wide-open spaces and be amazed at the colorful spectacle of other balloons in the morning sky.

A great team of pilots, expert, knowledgeable & great guys are guiding your balloon. They have some amazing facts to share about Hot Air Ballooning. Your balloon crew driver is ready and waiting to answer all your questions and have a bit of fun. After landing there are some Hot Air Balloon pack-up games and lots of laughs.

Come down to earth and it’s a short drive to O’Reilly’s Grand Homestead & Boutique Vineyard. This breakfast is a real highlight with exclusive access to O’Reillys Canungra Valley Vineyard. Relax in the historic surroundings with a glass of champagne to toast your morning. A full freshly cooked breakfast, pastries, fresh juices, eggs & bacon, cereals & fruit is all yours as you relax in the serenity of the vineyard on the verandah of this picturesque grand Queenslander. Air conditioned coach transfers will take you back to your Meeting Point or Accommodation.

Need to Know Children below the age of 4 are not allowed to fly; Additional Civil Aviation Insurance Levy to be paid on-site (approx. $25 AUD)

Includes Air conditioned coach transfers to Balloon Launch; Free Hotel Pickups/Meeting Point Maps; Spectacular 30 minute Hot Air Balloon ride; Full Hot Breakfast & Champagne; Access to O’Reilly’s Grand Homestead & Vineyard; Expert interpretive commentary; Hot Air Balloon Ride Commemorative Certificate; Return Air Conditioned Coach Transfer

Operates Daily; 4:00am – 10:30am

Upgrades Extended Balloon Ride; You can upgrade your Gold Coast balloon flight to the extended balloon flight with Champagne Breakfast! Double the flight time so you will see further afield and have a higher chance of seeing more wild life hopping by; Private Extended Balloon Ride with Extras; 60 Minute Private Balloon Ride; Private Hot Air Balloon and expert pilot; Extra Sleep In; Personal Chauffeur & Private transfers; Extended Balloon Ride Gourmet breakfast at O’Reilly’s Vineyard; Australian Sparking wine; Complimentary photo set – delivered digitally

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Steve Irwin's Australia Zoo

A day excursion to the home of the famous Crocodile Hunter (Steve Irwin) at the Australia Zoo.


The Wildlife Park is located 2 hours by Deluxe Coach north of Brisbane. It’s as wild as life gets at Australia Zoo, home of the Crocodile Hunter, with more wildlife and entertainment than you can poke a stick at! With over 1200 animals and stacks of free show daily, it’s a full day of wildlife action and adventure. Get hands-on with cuddly koalas, waddling wombats, slithering snakes and cute kangaroos.



Come face to face with our majestic tigers or get your photo taken with a baby alligator.
Step aboard Steve’s Safari Shuttle and explore all that Australia Zoo has to offer including our newest exhibit Africa! Experience the wide open plains of the African savannah and see exotic animals such as giraffe, rhino and zebra interacting together and marvel at our gorgeous cheetah as they walk by. Then join our snakes, free-flight birds and crocs LIVE in our world-famous Crocoseum show and get your adrenalin pumping as you see a crocodile launch a strike from the water’s edge.

Operation Days: Daily from 8:45am – 5:30pm (Except Christmas)
Includes: Entry to Australia Zoo
Upgrades Available: Hire a Caddie Tour, Safari Guided Tour & Private Guided Tour
Self Drive Upgrades: Platinum Zoo Adventure

Insider's Tip: Gold Coast Dining

Some of the most spectacular water-view restauarants are located in Gold Coast.

From upscale bistros like Seascape, with cocktails and chef-selected five course banquets to the casual, pub-style Helm Bar in Surfers Paradise, delicious dining locations are awaiting you along the beach. Take a stroll and try one of the many restuarants with a view.

Photo Credit: Tourism Australia

Insider's Tip: Gold Coast Markets

The Gold Coast is well known for its sensational shopping and the weekly markets in and around the region provide shoppers with an opportunity to purchase handmade local arts and crafts, a wide variety of fresh produce and delicious food.

  • The Surfers Beachfront Markets are an institution, running for the past 23 years. Evening strollers can browse more than 120 stalls featuring mainly handmade or home-grown wares, while enjoying the live entertainment and beachfront location.
  • Set on the Sanctuary’s Village Green, the Sanctuary Markets feature a slew of international street food trucks with live music from 5pm.
  • The Art and Craft on the Coast markets feature more than 150 stalls of handmade fashion, jewelry, homewares, skincare, food, plants and the creative wares of local arts and craftspeople. Many a tourist has snared a unique souvenir during the market’s 20-year history and locals enjoy browsing the stalls on their way to and from the beach.
  • HOTA comes alive on Sunday mornings as locals emerge to stock their pantries for the week ahead. There are more than 80 stalls manned at the Bundall Farmers Markets by local farmers, growers, producers and creators of fine artisan foods. As well as ticking off the food shopping, market-goers can take in breakfast or brunch, enjoy live music and wander the arts precinct, including the gallery, Evandale Lake and the children’s playground. Remember to bring your own bags as single-use plastic ones aren’tt available on-site.
  • From its humble beginnings as a boutique fashion market, The Village Markets has been the launching pad for a string of successful local labels including Peony Swimwear, Kivari boho creations and designer pet outfitter Bones Society. TVM prides itself on its carefully curated selection of funky fashion, preloved and vintage clothing and homeware stalls, with food trucks, live music and its trademark relaxed Sunday vibe thrown in.

Content: Destination Gold Coast

Photo Credit: Surfers Paradise Alliance

(Day 9) - Shuttle Transfer, Gold Coast Accommodation to Brisbane Airport

Travel by shuttle from your Gold Coast vacation accommodation to the Airport in Brisbane, Australia. (Estimated travel time 1.5 hours)

Luggage is limited to 2 suitcases per person. Excess luggage, surfboards & bicycles will be carried at a rate of $10.00 AUD per item. All luggage must be clearly labelled by the passenger, including name and full address. Valuable items (e.g. jewellery, expensive equipment, cash etc) should be carried by the passenger on their person. Passengers are strongly advised to take out appropriate travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances.

(Day 9) - International Flight, Brisbane to Los Angeles (Check quote for inclusion)

Departure from Brisbane arriving in US via Virgin Australia Boeing 777.

In-flight meal along with beverages served throughout the flight. Enjoy award-winning In-flight entertainment with individual seat back screens featuring movies, music and more. Upgrades to ‘The Business’ and Premium are available upon request.
Note: You will be traveling back across the International Date line so you will gain a day. You actually arrive in the USA on the same day you leave Australia.

(Day 9) Los Angeles to Hometown (Check quote for inclusion)

Travel by domestic air to your destination.

If you request US domestic air pricing, this inclusion will be reflected in your quote.

Packages by About Australia, a fully bonded and ARC Accredited travel company.