Australia Summer Down Under Gay Tour - Melbourne, Tasmania & Sydney Gay Mardi Gras - Adonis Gay Holiday

Australia Summer Down Under &
Sydney Gay Mardi Gras

Melbourne, Tasmania, Sydney Gay Mardi Gras, and more!

11 Days from Melbourne to Sydney, Australia

February 20 – March 02, 2025

Australia gay tour Swim trunks and party pants required for this all-gay Australia tour. Highlights include Melbourne, Tasmania, and Sydney Gay Mardi Gras. Slather on your highest SPF and get ready for this ripper adventure during Straya’s summer season—North America’s winter. Our gay Australia tour begins in quirky, queer and ultrahip Melbourne with a private walking tour of the city’s graffitied alleys, world-renowned cafes and rooftop bars. We’ll sip New World wines in fertile Yarra Valley, and enjoy both the bush and beach lining the heritage-listed Great Ocean Road. Then it’s off to temperate Tassie (or Tasmania to the rest of us muggles) for a taste of the country’s ecological and agricultural side. Finally, our sunny sojourn culminates in splashy Sydney where we join the rowdiest Pride this side of the equator, Mardi Gras. Crikey!

For those looking to extend their time down under, begin your South Pacific holiday by combining this tour with our all-gay New Zealand Active South Island Gay Adventure.

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Sydney Gay Mardi Gras tour

• Party your togs off at Sydney Gay Mardi Gras, one of the world’s premiere Pride events

• Drive the Great Ocean Road and photograph the angelic 12 Apostles

• Discover Tasmania’s temperate rainforests and epic coastlines

• Enjoy the splendid natural beauty of Freycinet National Park including roo (kangaroo), wombats, echidnas, wallaby, and the rare Tasmanian devil

• Take a bite out of Melbourne, one of the hippest and food-centric cities in the world

• Get a taste of Australia’s bodacious cool climate wines in Yarra Valley

• Learn about the history and culture of Sydney on an included city tour

Melbourne Australia gay tour

Day 1 - Arrive Melbourne, Australia
G’day! Welcome to Melbourne, Australia.

With flat whites in hand, we’ll kick things off with a brief Welcome Meeting at 1:00pm followed by a walk-through Melbourne’s iconic laneways and arcades making your way to Federation Square in the heart of the city center via some of the city’s graffitied laneways.

From here, we head down to the seaside suburb of St Kilda for an afternoon of exploring LGBTQ+ history and a vibrant area that has always been a place of acceptance, diversity, and inclusion in Melbourne. You’ll visit important landmarks and venues significant to the LGBTQ+ community including the new Victorian Pride Centre, learn about the history of the area, and end with a drink in the oldest gay-friendly bar in the city, The Prince of Wales Pub.

After working up an appetite, we’ll have a Welcome Dinner in St Kilda, taking in the views of the bay and St Kilda beach culture.

Hotel: Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street Hotel, Melbourne

Australia gay tour - 12 Apostles

Day 2 - Melbourne - The Great Ocean Road
Up and at ‘em, Gentlemen! We have an epic 12-hour day ahead, exploring the many sights along the Great Ocean Road.

We’ll wander a lush rainforest, discover a secret bay and (hopefully) spot some grazing roo.

After a sumptuous lunch of local seafood and regional produce in the popular holiday village of Apollo Bay we reach today’s highlight: the heavenly 12 Apostles—a group of limestone monoliths erupting from the ocean just off the coast.

If you aren’t too tuckered out, join us for an optional dinner before mingling with the locals in one of the city’s many gay bars.

Hotel: Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street Hotel, Melbourne

Yarra Valley Australia gay tour

Day 3 - Melbourne - Yarra Valley
This morning we depart for the Yarra Valley.

Our first stop will be Fergusson winery where we have our first wine a tasting.

We travel onto Dominique Portet. The Portets have been producing rosé in Australia since 1989 and this experience encompasses three different styles – sparkling Brut Rosé, their highly regarded Fontaine Rosé, and a new addition Single Vineyard Rosé. Enjoy a warm welcome from a Dominique Portet host, who will provide you with an overview of the estate’s history, then guide you through three wines matched with a selection of charcuterie, cheese, and rustic baguette. The perfect match for rosé. Santé!

We head to Rochford Winery where we start with a tasting of 4 wines at the cellar door before sitting for lunch with a wine.

After lunch we stop at Oakridge winery for a final wine tasting before making our scenic journey back to Melbourne.

Your evening is free to further explore the city or join the group for an optional dinner.

Hotel: Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street Hotel, Melbourne

Hobart Tasmania gay tour

Day 4 - Hobart, Tasmania
This morning after breakfast we jet off to Hobart, Tassie’s (Tasmania’s) quaint capital.

Upon arrival we’ll check into our hotel and get our bearings on a quick orientation walk around the sleepy coastal city.

This afternoon you’ll have free time to wander this charming city.

We highly recommend paying a visit to the architectural and cultural gem, MONA (Museum of Old and New Art). If this interests you, museum and ferry tickets must be purchased in advance. Please consult with your guide on timing before purchasing tickets.

Finally, at tonight’s included dinner we’ll get a taste of the island’s delectable seafood.

Please note: Today’s flight is not included in the cost of the tour. Please see 'Trip Notes' for a special note on purchasing domestic airfare.

Hotel: Lenna Of Hobart Hotel, Hobart, Tasmania

Tasmania gay tour - Bruny Island

Day 5 - Hobart - Bruny Island
Morning, Mate! We have an early start this monring as we make our way to Bruny Island, an agricultural region known for its fresh produce, briny oysters, salty cheese and spectacular scenery. The journey will take about 2 hours each way including the ferry.

Once on Bruny, we have a slew of activities that await. With a local guide, we’ll have morning tea and oysters, visit Adventure Bay, South Bruny National Park, the Cape Bruny Lighthouse, a rainforest–and we’ll enjoy a splendid included lunch.

On the way back—and if time permits—we may drive up to Mt Wellington for a panoramic view of Hobart and its magnificent harbour.

The evening is yours to further explore the city or join an optional group dinner.

Hotel: Lenna Of Hobart Hotel, Hobart, Tasmania

Tasmania gay tour - Freycinet National Park

Day 6 - Freycinet National Park, Tasmania
Today we have a scenic 3-hour drive to the fabulous seaside Freycinet Lodge located inside Freycinet National Park.

We’ll enjoy a briney lunch of mussels and oysters at Freycinet Marine Farm before a relaxed afternoon on the beach.

Alternatively, book yourself a rejuvenating massage at the lodge’s spa.

This evening you are welcome to join the group for an optional dinner.

Hotel: Freycinet Lodge, Freycinet National Park

Tasmania gay tour

Day 7 - Wine Glass Bay, Tasmania
For those wanting to stretch their hamstrings, we’ve planned an optional tramp up to Wineglass Bay lookout today. The gorgeous walk is about 2.5 hours return and involves some incline.

The rest of the day is free and there are a number of optional activities to choose from including sea kayaking, scenic flights and coastal cruises.

Tonight we have a delicious dinner planned at the lodge.

Hotel: Freycinet Lodge, Freycinet National Park

Gay Sydney tour

Day 8 - From Hobart, Tasmania to Sydney
This morning we’ll drive back to Hobart airport and fly to splashy Sydney, arriving early in the afternoon. We recommend grabbing a snack or a light lunch at the airport.

After dropping our bags at our centrally-located hotel we’ll have a short orientation walk and get our first glimpse of Darling Harbour.

Later in the afternoon and evening you are welcome to stroll around this majestic coastal city on your own and perhaps take in one of the many Mardi Gras events, or join the group for an optional excursion and dinner.

Please note: Today’s flight is not included in the cost of the tour. Please see 'Trip Notes' for a special note on purchasing domestic airfare.

Hotel: The Grace Sydney Hotel, Sydney

Gay Bondi Beach

Day 9 - Sydney & Bondi Beach
This morning we’ll get to know Sydney on an included walking tour. Highlights will include the Hyde Park Barracks, the State Library, State Parliament and finally arriving at the Royal Botanical Gardens.

Along the way learn the history of this important part of Sydney and the stories of Sydney’s colonial past. There will be short stops along the way to point out significant landmarks and the history behind them. Once at the Royal Botanical Gardens spend some time wandering and exploring before arriving at the Rocks for an included lunch.

The rest of your day is free to enjoy the multitude of Mardi Gras festivities in this humming city, or if there’s enough interest your host will organize an optional visit to Bondi Beach.

Hotel: The Grace Sydney Hotel, Sydney

Sydney Mardi Gras gay travel

Day 10 - Sydney Gay Mardi Gras
If you smashed the town last night, don’t worry. This morning you can either sleep in or enjoy a simple stroll along the hip strip of Oxford Street, Sydney’s gaybourhood.

Later this afternoon we’ll regroup for a big gay farewell lunch before a local drag queen helps us get glittered up for the big finale, the Mardi Gras parade.

We’re planning on heading to the parade route early to find a good view of the festivities. While we’ll play the evening by ear, the event officially goes until 11pm so you may want to break up your schooners with flat whites.

After the parade finishes, you are free to keep the party going on Oxford Street or head back to the hotel.

Hotel: The Grace Sydney Hotel, Sydney

Gay Sydney travel

Day 11 - Sydney Departure
Alas, it’s our final day with no planned activities so you are free to depart at leisure.

If you’d like to keep the adventure going, stay tuned for details on our post Mardi Gras package which will visit some of Australia’s most famous natural wonders.

Uluru & The Great Barrier Reef
For those looking to extend their time in Down Under, we'll be offering a short post-tour extension highlighting two of the country's natural wonders: Uluru (aka Ayers Rock) and The Great Barrier Reef.

• Gay group host from beginning to end of tour

• Arrival & departure transfers to/from Joining/Finishing Point Hotels

• Private air-conditioned transportation

• 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 3 dinners

• All included activities and experiences mentioned in the itinerary

• A $50 USD Rainbow Railroad donation to help resettle LGBTQ+ refugees.

Sydney Gay Mardi Gras

• International and domestic airfare (details will be provided when the official Trip Guarantee is sent to group)

• Entry visa costs

• Travel insurance is mandatory for all travellers.

• Gratuities for host & local guides (Australia is not a tipping culture however a tip to your host and guides will be appreciated, budget approximately $150 USD)

• Meals and activities not mentioned in the itinerary

• Water on transportation—please bring a reusable water bottle as Australia’s tap water is crisp, clean and refreshing.

• All optional activities mentioned/suggested

• Alcoholic beverages at lunch and dinner, unless otherwise indicated

Australia Visa
Most travellers from Canada and The United States do not require a visa, however they do require an ETA to enter Australia for up to 90 days. You must apply before entering Australia, and it may take up to 48 hours. Exceptions may apply and all visas are the responsibility of the traveller. For more information, click here.

Culture Shock
Despite its history as a penal colony, Australia is a highly-developed safe nation. Crime rates are very low. Still, it’s recommended you leave valuables at home or in your hotel room as theft can and does occur.

Local LGBT Scene
The new millennium brought a wave of gay and lesbian rights and acceptance to Australia. Today, 79% of people agree society should accept homosexuality, making it the fifth most gay-accepting country in the world. Both Melbourne and Sydney have famously flambouyant gay scenes many tourists love to indulge in.

Australia gay tour - koala

Weather
Australian summers tend to be extremely hot with highs in certain areas exceeding 40C/104F on some days. Victoria and Tasmania are known for volatile changes in weather patterns—don’t be surprised if you experience four seasons in a day in either state. Meanwhile, Sydney enjoys some of the country’s best beach weather.
Please note: Australia’s sun is shockingly strong and proper skincare is absolutely essential. Come prepared with ample sunscreen, hats and light long sleeve shirts to protect yourself.

Required Vaccinations
Based on the entry requirements, there are no immunizations needed for entry. To determine if you should take preventative measures to reduce the risk of illness, consult with your doctor or a travel medical clinic. We cannot provide vaccination recommendations.

Electricity
In Australia the power plugs and sockets are of type I. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

Gay Australia kangaroo

Connectivity
We should have reliable Wi-Fi in our hotels throughout this tour. Feel free to tweet, pin, post and share your experience with your friends and family at home.

Travel Insurance
For everybody’s peace of mind, medical travel insurance is required on all Out Adventures tours. At a minimum, your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident, death, medical expenses, emergency repatriation and personal liability, with a minimum medical coverage of US $200,000.

Meals
Breakfast daily, 6 lunches and 3 dinners are included on this trip.

Australia gay holidays

Money
Australia’s currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Debit and credit cards should be accepted and work throughout the country. We recommend bringing about $400 USD in case of an emergency, or if your credit/ATM cards are placed on hold.

Tipping
If you are happy with your guide’s services, a small gift is recommended as Australia doesn’t have much of a tipping culture.

What to bring
Please keep your baggage under 20kg/44lb to avoid costly surcharges on domestic flights. You should also bring something smaller to carry a water bottle, your camera and souvenirs on day trips. Our packing list is a guideline, not gospel, but we are happy to answer any specific questions about how much (or little) to bring.

Sydney Opera House gay tour

Optional Activities
Every Out Adventure offers optional excursions that are not included in price of this trip. Please see the daily itinerary in your final pre-trip packet to learn what’s available.

How We Travel
Out Adventures is all about good times with likeminded guys. Whatever’s on the itinerary – from fireside camping to five-star decadence – our goal is to make the experience magical. We’re also committed to supporting the communities we visit by hiring local guides, staying at locally-owned accommodations when possible, and celebrating local cuisine. It all adds up to a great way to immerse yourself in the culture.

Australia gay tour kangaroo

Your Guide
All Out Adventures are led by a gay (or gay-welcoming) guide.Whenever possible, we hire destination locals. And we can also connect you with the right people if you’d like to delve deeper into the local culture. If you’re pleased with your guide, we recommend a small gift would be the most appropriate way to show your appreciation—tipping is not really a custom in Australia.

Flying Solo
If you’ve never travelled on your own, it’s an amazing way to get to know yourself while making new friends along the way. We can arrange for you to share a room with people in your age range at no charge, or you can pay a supplement for your own room. If there’s an odd number of solos, we’ll rotate a single room on a random basis.

Domestic Airfare
On this tour domestic airfare is not included. We will provide the recommended flight details in the official Trip Guarantee email. If you are booking your trip less than 90 days to departure, there is a chance you will have to purchase a different flight than the rest of the group.

Starting Point Hotel
Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street Hotel, Melbourne
Featuring a fitness centre, a restaurant as well as a bar, Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street is located in the centre of Melbourne, 700 metres from Block Arcade Melbourne. This 5-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk. The property is non-smoking and is situated less than 1 km from Melbourne City Conference Centre.

Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street Hotel room

The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms offering a desk, a coffee machine, a fridge, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a shower. Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street provides certain rooms with city views, and rooms have a kettle. At the accommodation each room is equipped with bed linen and towels. Breakfast is available daily, and includes buffet, à la carte and continental options.

Finishing Point Hotel
The Grace Sydney Hotel, Sydney
Close to the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House, The Grace Hotel offers luxury rooms and a rooftop fitness centre with an indoor swimming pool and a sauna.

The Rocks and Circular Quay are 15 minutes' walk from The Grace Hotel. Shopping at the QVB and Pitt Street Mall is on the hotel’s doorstep.

The Grace Sydney Hotel room

The Grace Hotel has been beautifully restored to its former glory, making it one of Sydney’s most prominent historical landmarks, it is a fine example of Neo-Gothic architecture with a contrasting Art Deco interior featuring a unique blend of old-world charm with modern comfort.

All rooms feature a flat-screen TV with cable channels and pay-per-view movies. They also offer free WiFi, tea/coffee maker, refrigerator and hairdryer. Some rooms include breakfast, which is served and enjoyed in your room.

Australia Sydney gay tour