Sunshine State & Sydney – Brisbane, Long Island and Sydney

13 days,

10 nights |

from $8899 per person*

TOUR CODE: SUNSYD

Start your adventure in the vibrant city of Brisbane, staying in style at the Emporium Hotel South Bank. Located in the heart of South Bank, this boutique hotel offers the perfect base for exploring the city’s rich culture and culinary delights.

Immerse yourself in Brisbane’s local culture and flavors with a private Sights and Bites tour. Discover hidden gems, explore cultural precincts, and savor delectable culinary treats, providing a glimpse into the city’s unique character.

Venture to the renowned Australia Zoo, a conservation haven founded by the late Steve Irwin. Enjoy a guided tour through the zoo’s vast grounds, and a cahance to get up close and personal with these iconic marsupials.

Experience island paradise at its finest with three nights at the Elysian Luxury Eco Island Retreat, located on a secluded island near the Great Barrier Reef. Your journey to this pristine retreat includes a breathtaking helicopter transfer from Hamilton Island.

The adventure continues at the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga, where you’ll spend the night amidst stunning wildlife. Wake up to the sounds of the animal kingdom, with unique encounters and a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation.

Explore the dynamic city of Sydney while enjoying a three-night stay at the luxurious Shangri-La Sydney. Located in the heart of the city, this hotel offers stunning views of the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Delve into the heart of Sydney with Essential Sydney Tours, taking you to iconic landmarks, including Bondi Beach and the Royal Botanic Garden. Conclude your Sydney experience with a memorable Sydney Harbour Long Lunch, savoring delectable cuisine while enjoying the city’s mesmerizing waterfront.

This 14-day journey is an exploration of contrasts, from bustling urban centers to tranquil island paradises, from close encounters with Australian wildlife to the rich cultural experiences of Sydney. Whether you’re cuddling koalas, savoring gourmet delights, or gazing at the Sydney Opera House, this East Coast adventure offers a well-rounded and unforgettable Australian experience.

  • Round-trip airfare on Qantas Airways from Los Angeles to Brisbane, returning from Sydney
  • Internal Australian Flights: Brisbane, Hamilton Island and Sydney
  • 3-nights Brisbane, Emporium Hotel South Bank, River City King Suite including breakfast
    • Private Brisbane Sights and Bites experiences
    • Private Australia Zoo Guided Tour
  • 3-nights Long Island, Elysian Luxury Eco Island Retreat, Oceanfront Villa including tropical buffet breakfast, a 2-course or packed lunch, 3-course dinner daily, standard beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages, use of kayaks, stand up paddleboards, rock shoes and snorkel equipment, two daily exercise or mindful movement classes (catering to all levels) and organic toiletries
  • Round-trip helicopter transfers from Hamilton Island to Long Island
  • 1-night Sydney, Wildlife Retreat at Taronga including breakfast and dinner
  • 3-nights Sydney, Shangri-la Sydney, Executive Opera House City View Room including breakfast
    • Essential Sydney Tour including lunch
    • Sydney Harbour Long Lunch cruise
  • Round-trip private airport/hotel transfers
  • US/foreign taxes and fees including September 11 Security Fee

All trips include 24-hour emergency travel assistance.

Book by:

May 31, 2024

Valid for travel between:

May 1, 2024 – June 28, 2024

Additional dates, gateway cities and airlines may be available.

Need some help? Contact us here.

Day 1: Depart USA

Make your way to Los Angeles Airport for your overnight flight to Brisbane. If you require a connecting flight from another US gateway, please let us know and we can price your airfare accordingly.

Day 2: International Date Line

During your flight, you will cross the International Date Line.

Day 3: Arrive Brisbane

On arrival at Brisbane Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a 3-night stay. The remainder of your day is free to relax or explore the city at your leisure.

Day 4: Brisbane

Today, your culinary adventure begins in the heart of Brisbane’s trendy James Street Precinct, a hub for gourmet food and wine. Here, you’ll sample some of the city’s finest offerings, starting with a visit to the renowned Agnes bakery, where you can delight your senses with their scrumptious pastries and artisanal bread. Next, indulge in a wine tasting at one of Australia’s few urban micro-wineries, where you’ll savor exquisite wines crafted from handpicked grapes sourced from top vineyards across the country. From there, proceed to the luxurious Calile Hotel, an oasis of style and sophistication. Indulge in a gourmet dining experience at their on-site restaurant, where talented chefs create tantalizing dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. While you dine, sip on a refreshing cocktail by the hotel’s stunning poolside, soaking in the chic atmosphere and warm Queensland sun. Complete your culinary adventure with a visit to Howard Smith Wharves, a stunning Brisbane Riverfront destination that offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. Unwind with a leisurely riverside drink at one of the precinct’s stylish bars, as you take in the captivating panorama of the iconic Story Bridge and cityscape beyond.

Day 5: Australia Zoo (B)

Enjoy a personalized guided tour through ‘Australia Zoo’. Learn all about the animals and you won’t miss any shows or waste time backtracking. If you leave the zoo early, visit beautiful local sights such as lush rainforest, cute mountain village, superb beaches, Brisbane City and Glasshouse Mountains.

Day 6: Brisbane – Hamilton Island – Long Island (B,D)

This morning, transfer to Brisbane Airport for your flight to Hamilton Island. On arrival you will transfer by helicopter to Long Island and the eco-friendly Elysian. Nestled into a private cove with a rocky beach, surrounded by national park rainforest and the turquoise waters of the Great Barrier Reef, Elysian is a blissful escape from the hustle and bustle of every-day life where the small personable team will seek to delight you with friendly 5-star service.

Day 7-8: Long Island (B,L,D)

Experience Paradise! Accommodating only 20 guests (adults only), relax in your romantic villa, explore the island or join one of the optional activities available. Spoil yourself with a treatment in the on-site Spa, explore the Great Barrier Reef or perhaps travel across to Whitehaven Beach to see the white silica sand beaches!

Day 9: Long Island – Hamilton Island – Sydney (B)

After breakfast, transfer to Hamilton Island by helicopter to connect with your flight to Sydney. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to North Sydney for an amazing overnight stay at Wildlife Retreat at Taronga. Your stay at the Wildlife Retreat includes entry into the Zoo during Zoo hours on the day of arrival, during your stay and the day of check out. If you arrive before 2pm, the front desk team will be happy to hold your bags and provide you with a pass for entry into the Zoo to meet some of the incredible wildlife. At 3pm, guides will lead you on a journey where you can get close to some adorable Australian animals. Enjoy dinner this evening at Me-Gal before retiring to your room.

Day 10: Sydney (B)

After a night spent listening to the bellow of koalas outside your window and to the sounds of our local lyrebird, wake up with the animals and enjoy an buffet breakfast at Me-Gal before a day of exploring the zoo. After breakfast and time at the zoo, transfer from Taronga to the Shangri-la Hotel Sydney for a 3-night stay.

Day 11: Sydney (B,L)

Experience a 5-hour Sydney journey encompassing a citywide exploration, a delightful lunch at the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia in Rushcutters Bay, and a visit to the iconic Bondi Beach. This adventure unveils Sydney’s treasured gems, from the historic Rocks district, Royal Botanical Gardens, and Parliament House to Hyde Park Barracks, St Mary’s Cathedral, Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the Sydney Opera House. Your journey will also take you through Woolloomooloo, Kings Cross, Oxford Street, and the charming suburbs of Paddington, Double Bay, Rose Bay, Vaucluse, and Watsons Bay, with engaging commentary enhancing your experience throughout.

Day 12: Sydney (B,L)

Set sail on a luxurious Sydney Harbour cruise, where you’ll dine at iconic harborside restaurants and uncover the harbor’s beauty. Your voyage commences with a warm crew welcome as you board the luxury cruiser. Enjoy a variety of complimentary drinks. Cruise past landmarks like the Harbour Bridge and Opera House while the crew shares harbor history. Admire Woolloomoolloo Bay, Double Bay, and Point Piper, home to Sydney’s most expensive residences. Stop for an entrée at Doyles on the Beach at Watsons Bay before returning to the boat for the main course. Sail through Sydney Heads, explore Middle Harbour, and disembark for lunch at Balmoral Public Dining Room. Enjoy dessert and cheese platters while onboard. Your return journey takes you through Middle Harbour, showcasing Taronga Zoo and the Prime Minister’s house. Weather permitting, there’s a chance for a swim. This long lunch cruise offers a comprehensive view of Sydney Harbour’s beauty, concluding around 3:30 pm.

Day 13: Depart Sydney (B)

After breakfast, transfer to Sydney Airport for your return flight to Los Angeles.

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Based on Departures Price per person from*

Based on double occupancy

April 1 – April 30, 2024 9099
May 1 – June 28, 2024 8899
June 29 – July 23, 2024 9369
July 24 – September 17, 2024 9259
September 18 – November 11, 2024 9499

Additional upgrades and add-ons may be available.

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*Terms & Conditions: Pricing is per person based on double occupancy. All prices are in US dollars and correct at time of posting for travel during specified travel dates. Single supplements, black-out dates and seasonal supplements may apply. Airfare is not included unless indicated. Prices may differ when you book your travel and are not guaranteed until full payment is received. Airline and hotels frequently change their prices as a result of fare increases and/or fuel surcharges. Prices may increase before full payment for those and other reasons. Package is not combinable with any other offer or discounted vacation package. After full payment, prices are guaranteed except only due to an increase in government-imposed taxes or fees. By paying your deposit, you affirmatively agree to the possibility of such increases. Package is strictly subject to availability, not retroactive and not combinable with any other special or vacation package offer. Minimum night stays or required room types may apply. All prices, itineraries and routings are subject to change without notice. Please call for our current prices. CST#2001136-20

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