Most popular tourist destinations of East Coast Australia

Compiling a list of the most popular tourist destinations on the Australian East Coast is no easy task. From Sydney to Melbourne to Gold Coast to Cairns there is so much to see and do.

Of course a lot depends on what kind of holiday you're looking for and whether you're traveling alone, with a family or on a working holiday. However I have managed to compile my top 10. Of course this is my opinion but it based on extensive traveling and living in some of these East Coast destinations.

Whether you are coming for a working holiday in Australia or just visiting our magnificent island for a vacation you will find so much to see in all these popular places:

1. Sydney
The sentimental favourite for many reasons. And a one of the most visited and admired places in Australia by tourists. Having one of the most beautiful harbours in the world certainly helps and the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House certainly provide reason enough for this city to be in the number one spot on the Australian East Coast.

2. Surfers Paradise
Otherwise known as the Gold Coast Surfers Paradise was once reserved for the wealthy of Queensland and then in the 1980's Japanese investment saw the Coast open up to families and all tourists alike. One of the major drawcards of the Gold Coast are some of the most famous theme parks (Dreamworld, Seaworld, Movie World) on the Australian East Coast as well glittering beaches and a lifestyle envied across the country.

3. Sunshine Coast
Only 2 hours north of Brisbane lies the beautiful Sunshine Coast of Queensland is one of East Coast Australia's favourite family holiday destinations. Consisting of areas such as Noosa, Coolum, Maroochydore and Caloundra plus others, the Sunshine Coast offers a holiday of relaxation and numerous beaches to choose from. The Surf Clubs are a great place for a meal and I always enjoy staying in Coolum along David Low Way.

There are plenty of attractions of the sunshine coast for children such as Steve Irwin's Australia Zoo, Underwater World, Thrill HIll, the BIg Pineapple and the Ginger Factory.

4. Cairns
Tropical North Queensland is a top tourist destination of Australia mainly because it is the main gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Reef tours are a must as is the Kuranda Rail. There are loads of things to see and do in Cairns and surrounding areas such as Port Douglas, Mossman, Innisfail, Cooktown and the beautiful Tablelands.

What a beautiful part of the coast, and it happen to be where I live and what a great place to visit if you're a tourist! Having a good time in Cairns really depends on the seasons so make sure you do some research on the weather before you book!

5. Fraser Island
About 2.5hrs north of Brisbane lies the largest sand island of Fraser Island near Hervey Bay, a popular destination for people of all ages. Fishing, four wheel driving, surfing, whale watching Fraser Island is a great place to spend at least 3 days.

6. Tweed Coast
Just south of the Gold Coast but in New South Wales is the fabulous Tweed Coast with Tweed Heads at its heart. Other great towns to visit in this part of the world are Kingscliffe and the must visit Fingal Head. Becoming a destination for retirees this part of the Australian Coast has been relatively untouched.

7. Whitsunday Islands
Considered by many locals and tourists to be the Australian East Coast's top destination the Whitsunday Islands are a group of islands lying in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef. Hamilton Island, Brampton Island, Hayman Island,...the list goes on.

8. Byron Bay
The ultimate destination to feel you a million miles away from anything. Superb beaches such as Wategos Beach and walking up to the Cape Byron Lighthouse are just some of the highlights of Byron Bay. It is also home to the Byron Bay Blues Festival.

9. Bundaberg and the Coral Coast
About 4 hours drive north of Brisbane. This is a favorite and popular destination for backpackers to earn some extra cash for their travels given there are numerous small crop farms and fruit picking areas. Highlights include Bargara and Childers.

10. The Great Ocean Road
A 3 hour drive from Melbourne takes in the breathtaking Great Ocean Road drive. Admire the rock formations in the Ocean where the 12 Apostles once stood and where only 8 now stand due to the ocean movements and weather patterns.

There are many more popular tourist destinations of the Australian East Coast, some of which have the best beaches in the country, whilst others which offer secluded bays and waters that only the locals know about.

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