9 days in Gold Coast, Byron Bay & Brisbane Itinerary

A city of towering skyscrapers, sandy beaches, and tree-lined streets, Gold Coast has an unpretentious air complemented by a citywide focus on sports and the arts.

On the 24th (Sat), you'll have a packed day of sightseeing: enjoy breathtaking views from SkyPoint Observation Deck.

To find where to stay, photos, other places to visit, and other tourist information, refer to the Gold Coast trip planner.

Sydney to Gold Coast is an approximately 3-hour flight. You can also drive; or take a bus. In December, daytime highs in Gold Coast are 32°C, while nighttime lows are 22°C. You will have some time to spend on the 26th (Mon) before leaving for Byron Bay.

Named after Lord Byron's grandfather, Byron Bay is not only famous as the easternmost point of Australia, but even more so as one of the liveliest vacation spots in the country.

Byron Bay is known for adventure, historic sites, and wildlife. Your trip includes some of its best attractions: visit a coastal fixture at Cape Byron Lighthouse, tour the pleasant surroundings at Cape Byron Walking Track, look for gifts at The Byron Bay Book Exchange, and relax and rejuvenate at some of the best spas.

To find other places to visit, more things to do, reviews, and tourist information, read Byron Bay trip itinerary maker app.

You can drive from Gold Coast to Byron Bay in 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus. Expect a daytime high around 34°C in December, and nighttime lows around 20°C. On the 28th (Wed), you're off to Brisbane.

Queensland’s biggest town and state capital, Brisbane has an attractive, manicured image based around its riverside aesthetic as well as the contrast between its high-rise center and extensive urban greenery.

Brisbane is known for parks, sightseeing, and wildlife. Your trip includes some of its best attractions: look for all kinds of wild species at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and see the interesting displays at Opal Museum.

To see ratings, where to stay, maps, and more tourist information, use the Brisbane travel route tool.

Getting from Byron Bay to Brisbane by car takes about 2 hours. Other options: take a bus. In December, plan for daily highs up to 32°C, and evening lows to 23°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 31st (Sat) to allow time to fly back home.