travel ideas in australia

23 of the best things to do in Australia

Nov 2, 2023 • 13 min read

Experience the best of Australia with this guide to the top things to do © Dallas and John Heaton / Getty Images

An ancient land of diverse ecosystems, Australia is a nature lover’s wonderland.

From emerald rainforests and fragrant, eucalyptus-covered mountains, to golden ribbons of coastline  and woodland caves with Aboriginal art, there are countless ways to experience the beauty of this vast island nation. Even in urban settings, nature is never far away. Rainbow lorikeets squeal at sunset and crashing crystal waves will beckon you outdoors, if just to sip Aussie wine and scoff prawns. Here are the best things to do in Australia.

1. Admire the Sydney Opera House from a different angle

Inspired by yacht sails and surrounded by water, the glorious Sydney Opera House is an Australian icon. The majestic curves dominate Sydney Harbour and look impressive from every angle. Stroll right around its base – something many don’t know you can do – then take a white-knuckle climb up the  Sydney Harbour Bridge with a guide to get a view of the Opera House. For a quiet perspective, kayak at dawn as the sun kisses the surrounding waters, or picnic under Moreton Bay fig trees in the crowd-free Tarpeian Lawn in the Botanic Gardens.

Local tip: Time your visit to watch  Badu Gili  – a light show of First Nations stories by Aboriginal artists – projected onto the Opera House. It has been such a hit that in recent years it has turned into a daily free event at sunset.

2. Learn about bush food under the stars in the Red Centre 

The didgeridoo plays while the sun shimmers on the horizon and the earth’s rusty red intensifies. Then the Southern Cross and stars spill across the sky. Enjoy a tasting menu of native bush ingredients in the Northern Territory 's Red Centre alongside this remarkable backdrop.

3. Be dazzled by the marine life at Ningaloo Reef

The Great Barrier Reef has a lesser-known but equally dazzling sibling in Western Australia. Ningaloo Reef is a jeweled necklace of coral reef that fringes the coast, especially near Exmouth , making it very accessible for snorkelers. Nearby, blowholes force ocean water through sea caves and up to 20m (66ft) into the air. Ningaloo Reef is a magical place for swimming alongside whale sharks (the world’s largest fish) and migrating humpback whales (be sure to always give these wild creatures a lot of space).

Planning tip:  For children and those who don't want to swim, glass-bottom boats are a comfortable option to see manta rays and turtles gliding above the coral below.

4. Eat authentic world cuisine and new Australian fusions

Nearly half of all Australians were born overseas or have at least one parent born overseas. That’s why eating at restaurants in a Little Korea, Thai Town or Greek Precinct means you get the real deal. As always, it pays to window-shop for somewhere that has mostly local diners.

Modern Australian food highlights these world flavors through European cooking techniques, and its varied climate and nutrient-rich land produces top-quality fresh ingredients. Chefs are exploring pairing indigenous flavors such as desert lime and bush banana (which resembles snow peas) with seafood, Australia’s specialty. This kind of dining is always the most exquisite with a beach, river or harbor view.

5. Walk at Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania

On first seeing Cradle Mountain , even Aussies might exclaim, “I didn’t know Australia could even look like this!” It’s true that the glacier-hewed crags and alpine heaths here have a touch of the Scandinavian. Cradle Mountain is all Australian though, with pristine ancient rainforests, mirrored lakes, and unique fauna isolated from the rest of the world.  Hiking newbies: head to Ronny Creek for a glimpse of wombats drinking from a creek in a buttongrass moorland. The terrain is flat, and most visitors head for Dove Lake, so you’ll have the marsupials (and shuttle bus stop) to yourself.

6. Watch baby penguins waddle 

The sun won't even be up yet, but it'll be worth it – and your heart might melt – when you witness little blue penguins waddling across the sand. Phillip Island is the most famous penguin site, but there are other islands and even secret spots in cities such as  Manly in Sydney and St Kilda in Melbourne. 

7. Learn to surf, or at least have a laugh trying

You might not ride a tube on your first lesson, but paddling and standing on a surfboard for one glorious moment before being dumped in a fizzle of white foam is an amazing feeling. Besides, getting water-confident will help you enjoy some of Australia’s nearly 12,000 beaches . When the water’s choppy, try sandboarding on dunes across the country, often in places with rich Aboriginal history, including Henty Dunes in Tasmania . 

Local tip: Want to learn more about the history of surf culture and the grassroots campaign by women surf pros to be recognized and celebrated in the sport? Check out the 2021 documentary  Girls Can't Surf . 

8. Join Sydney locals on the Bondi to Coogee walk

Hugging 6km (3.7 miles) of coast between two beaches, the clifftop walk from Bondi beach is saturated by blue skies and rolling ocean. No matter how many times you walk it, each turn is a delight: outdoor baths that glitter with crashing ocean waves; Gordon’s Bay, decorated with wooden boats; Waverley Cemetery with the most exclusive resting place in Australia; McIver’s Ladies Seawater Baths hewn from rock; and lounging locals at Tamarama, Clovelly, and Bronte beaches, each with their own personality . 

Local tip: Stop at the Clovelly Bowling Green for a beer and a barefoot game of lawn bowls overlooking the ocean – you just need to sign in as a guest. The walk gets steep after this, so it may be tempting to stay and linger.

9. Feel ancient Australia in Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory

Kakadu is the perfect kind of middle of nowhere. It’s the wild Australia that you might have already daydreamed about. Waterfalls bloom from rock, prehistoric crocodiles thrash the wetlands, lorikeets sing, and Aboriginal guides bring ancient rock art to life. As you trek between gorges and woodlands or hike for views over endless treetops, your worries seem far away. 

Planning tip: Helicopter or fixed-wing scenic flights are a wonderful way to get a sense of the sheer scale and beauty of Kakadu. Note that flights are only available over Jim Jim Falls in the wet season (November to April). Traditional owners request that the skies are rested in the dry season (May to October).

10. Celebrate Pride at the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade 

It might have started off as a protest, but today, over 40 years later, Australia’s largest LGBTIQ+ Pride parties all night. What makes the parade the highlight is the 200 flamboyant floats. The vehicles are decorated 12 months ahead, and dancers practice weekly to sashay for that one night. Grab a stool or milk crate to watch from the sidelines and prepare to shout “Happy Mardi Gras!” to strangers. But the nightlife excels  all year round in Sydney , with cozy, queer-friendly pubs including the Bearded Tit . 

11. Explore Uluru with an Aboriginal guide

Uluru has been a sacred site to the Anangu, the area’s Aboriginal people, for 10,000 years. It’s definitely worth engaging an Anangu guide for the Kuniya walk to the Mutitjulu Waterhole at the base of Uluru to hear ancient stories, decipher rock art, and appreciate the significance of Uluru’s towering slopes.

Planning tip: Go at dawn to beat the heat, then go back at night to see the desert illuminated by 50,000 lights in the Field of Light show.

12. Spot native wildlife on Kangaroo Island, South Australia

Kangaroo Island is a montage of Australian nature on show. In one day, you can glimpse koalas snoozing in eucalyptus trees, echidnas waddling, and kangaroos and wallabies sunbathing. In between, walk under the towering stone fossils of Remarkable Rocks and dip your toes in the clear blue waters of a parade of beaches you'll have all to yourself (except those guarded by sea lions).

13. Cheer on Aussie sports from the Dunny Derby to AFL

Sport is everywhere in Australia, from international matches to the local Dunny Derby (yes, it’s a toilet race). Even if you aren’t a sports nut, seeing a big match taps you into the Australian psyche at its most excitable. Women’s sport is finally getting the attention it deserves in Australia and there’s a good turnout for women’s cricket and Australian Football League (AFL) games these days. Sydney will host the 2027 Netball World Cup, and netball might make it into the Brisbane 2032 Olympics lineup.

Planning tip:  Plan ahead for tickets to see the Australian Open tennis in Melbourne or the World Surfing Championships on the Gold Coast . 

14. Get naked at a nudist beach

Aussies aren’t that fussed about nudity or what adults do in their own time. Feel the sun bathe every inch of your body at one of Australia’s community-minded nudist beaches . Don’t forget sunscreen; the rays are mighty here and burnt bits aren’t fun.

15. Spot a koala 

Who doesn’t love a cuddly koala? Just look at their high-on-eucalyptus faces! Fortunately, cuddling koalas is no longer encouraged in most states, even in controlled environments like wildlife parks. Instead, you can spot one high up in the street trees of rural towns around Australia’s southeast coast. As well as admiring the wildlife , look out for opportunities to learn about Australian bush conservation and how people can help wildlife recover after bushfires.

16. Cycle Victoria’s High Country on dedicated rail trails

Thank lockdowns for the cycling rebirth in Australia. The Victorian High Country has rewarding views at every turn. Ribbons of roads and disused railway lines (now reinvented as cycling rail trails) roll out alongside olive groves, tree ferns, and wineries between alpine valleys and lake swims. There are long stretches of flats for families and casual riders, and mountain trails right into the bush for the adrenaline-chasing cyclist.

Detour: The Victorian High Country boomed with gold in the 1850s, and there are traces of this wealth – and the Chinese miners who sought it – in the towns along the way. Eldorado has a gold museum, while Yackandandah has both quaint tinned-roofed buildings and a historic cemetery dedicated to Chinese gold miners.

17. Admire Aboriginal rock art

Art has been essential to cultural life through 65,000 years of Aboriginal Australian history. Seeing Aboriginal art is a captivating launchpad to conversations about Australia today for its First Nations people. Learn more about the significance of rock art at the Northern Territory's Arnhem Land and the Quinkan rock galleries in Queensland; the emergence of dot paintings on canvas in the 1970s in the Northern Territory; or the storytelling of contemporary works displayed at city museums, such as the Yolngu women’s bark paintings.

18. Drink in Australia's varied wine regions

Australia is blessed with clean water and rich soil to produce some top wines. Winery hopping lets you feel the sun and country air that fed the grapes while you taste test. Try old vine Shiraz in the Barossa Valley (South Australia) or a cabernet sauvignon from the Margaret River region (Western Australia), chased down with chardonnay in the Hunter Valley (New South Wales) and finishing with a pinot noir in the Yarra Valley (Victoria) or a sweet Riesling in Tasmania. You’ll need a few weeks to do it all, and every one of these wine regions is worth visiting for more than just its grapes.

Local tip: Include a gourmet farm-to-table lunch right in the vineyards, with produce freshly plucked from the garden. If you’re booze-free, try some non-alcoholic wine, which is becoming easy to find in Australia.

19. Enjoy the Great Barrier Reef sustainably

The Great Barrier Reef is a masterpiece of thousands of smaller reefs, coral, and islands. It’s a world must-see, not just for Australia. There’s no way to recommend a free-for-all visit; climate change has caused mass coral bleaching, and tourism can be damaging. Yet there are still ways to visit in a sustainable way, as well to contribute to its conservation, such as by participating in a citizen science or reef restoration program facilitated by local tour operators. Don't forget to wear reef-safe sunscreen. 

There is so much to see: turquoise waters resplendent with sea turtles floating above you and a kaleidoscope of coral beneath you; manta rays, dugongs, and a treasure trove of fish so diverse that there are species yet to be discovered. It’s enough to turn you into an advocate for marine conservation.

20. Try Aussie snacks

Australian food is world food, but there are some must-try Aussie staples that locals still adore. You might wince, but at least sample some yeasty, salty Vegemite spread thinly on toast. A smoother brunch is smashed avocado toast, an Australian invention; or a Thai curry pie, a spin on a classic Australian meat pie; and a sausage sizzle, the Aussie barbecue version of a hot dog.

You’re most likely to bring home Tim Tams, the chocolate-covered biscuits that Aussies longingly sob for when overseas. Australia’s greatest export to the coffee world is the flat white, which is most famously fine-tuned in Melbourne.

21. Stay out all night in Melbourne

In central Melbourne , the street-art-decorated laneways hide a society of wonderfully grungy cocktail bars and clubs. The famously moody weather of the city makes Melbourne an excellent place to go out while being entertained indoors. For interesting drinking, live music, historic theatres, and the Melbourne International Comedy and Film Festivals, the city dominates the country’s nightlife calendar.

Planning tip: If you're traveling with children and want a night out with the kids, check out the Victoria Market Night Market . There's one in summer and one in winter with street food stalls, buskers, live music, and local maker markets. Alternatively, many summer sporting events that run into the dark hours, like Friday night football, are also pretty child friendly.

22. Learn about Australia’s migration story

Australia is a vibrant nation of migrants. The Immigration Museum in Melbourne and the Migration Museum in Adelaide bring out the colorful threads of this timeline through memorabilia, voices, artifacts, and photos. They celebrate the positive elements in this story and are worth a visit for a deeper understanding of multicultural Australia.

23. Get used to sharing Australia with crocs, spiders and sharks

It’s true, Australia has some top-of-the-food-chain creatures. You have to go out of your way to bump into them, though. Wildlife parks are a (safe) way for kids – and adults – to get their thrills being splashed by a jumping crocodile, wincing at a funnel-web spider or black snake being milked of venom, and spotting the deadly spurs on a platypus. An even mightier heart thumper is cage diving at eye and teeth level with a great white shark.

Local tip: Obviously, you don't want to get cozy with deadly Australian animals. Always ask locals for advice on where it is safe to swim or walk, and heed warning signs before heading out. 

This article was first published August 2021 and updated November 2023

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The PERFECT 1, 2 or 3 Week Australia Itinerary [2024]

• Last Updated: January 30, 2024

Whether you have 1, 2, or 3 weeks in Australia, here are some suggestions for an Australia itinerary that will help you make the most of this huge, diverse, and stunning country!

Planning a trip to Australia can be quite difficult, simply because the country is so huge. 

Lots of its best attractions, cities, and natural landmarks are very spread out, so it’s impossible to see everything in a short amount of time. 

Australia is also an expensive country to visit, so most backpackers and average travellers won’t be able to visit every single point of interest without spending a lot. 

Despite these challenges, planning an epic trip to Australia is definitely possible. 

You just have to be smart about your Australia itinerary, sticking to one or two major areas and picking travel routes that are logical. 

For example, you won’t be able to fit Sydney, the Great Barrier Reef, Melbourne, Uluru, Tasmania, and beaches and national parks of Western Australia and the Northern Territory into a 1 week Australia itinerary. 

To see all those incredible places, you’d need at least one month, and even then you’d be rushing to get everywhere. 

What you can do, is pick the areas that appeal to you the most and plan your trip accordingly. 

READ MORE: Check out our comprehensive guide with everything you need to know about travelling in Australia !

So you’d be better off picking either the east coast or the west coast and hanging around there if you only have 1 or 2 weeks in Australia. 

In this article, I’ll provide a few sample Australia travel itineraries. 

Each Australia itinerary will include a few of the country’s best places to visit, while maintaining reasonable travel times.

Whether it’s your first trip to Australia or you’ve been here for a while, there is always something incredible to see!

Table of Contents

How to Get Around Australia

Days 1-2: sydney, days 3-5: brisbane , days 6-7: airlie beach and the whitsundays, days 1-3: sydney, days 3-6: melbourne , day 7-8: the great ocean road, day 9-10: adelaide, day 11: kangaroo island, day 12-14: perth, days 3-4: byron bay, days 5-6: the gold coast, days 7-8: cairns, days 9-10: port douglas and the great barrier reef, days 11-13: cape tribulation and the daintree rainforest, day 14: darwin, days 15-17: kakadu national park, days 18-20: uluru and the red centre, the ultimate australia itinerary travel guide.

Having travelled all around the country, we’re excited to share these epic 1, 2 and 3 week Australian itineraries that’ll cover the best places around.

But first, a tip…

It’s also important to consider how you’ll get around Australia during your visit. 

As I mentioned, the country is huge and public transport like buses or trains is expensive. 

If you’re staying in one area, it’s worth renting a car for a few days so you can explore and do day trips, but driving from one city to the next may take 12+ hours of driving. 

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Catching cheap domestic flights is the best way to jump from one state to the next, and you can take public transport or drive within smaller areas. 

Though every traveller will have their own unique preferences and modify these itineraries as necessary, here are some sample Australia itineraries that will hopefully help you plan your dream trip!

7 Day Australia Itinerary

One week in Australia goes by quickly, but some people can’t afford to take much longer off of work or their other responsibilities. 

You can still manage to experience some of the Aussie culture and natural beauty in one week. 

In this 7 day Australia itinerary, you’ll be sticking to the middle east coast. 

You’ll begin in Sydney, then head up to Queensland to enjoy the Great Barrier Reef. 

This plan is perfect for 7 days in Australia because it doesn’t require huge amounts of travel time. 

READ NEXT: 25 Amazing Things to Do in Australia

After arriving in  Sydney  and getting settled, you have two days to enjoy the city. 

You can spend one day visiting all the popular tourist attractions, like the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Tower Eye, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and maybe some of the museums. 

Another day can be spent swimming and sunbathing on one of the city’s main beaches. 

The northern beaches around Manly, or the western beaches around Bondi and Bronte are great options for a fun day in Sydney.

Bondi Beach has a very strong health and fitness scene, so they have lots of incredible healthy cafes where all the locals like to fuel up. 

Visit  Berri Bar Bondi Beach  for a refreshing Acai bowl,  Porch and Parlour  for a healthy breakfast on homemade bread, or  Umu  for some nourishing organic lunch bowls. 

After 2 days in Sydney, you can catch a quick, 1-hour flight up to Brisbane. 

Check out this post on how to spend one day in Sydney if that’s all the time you have.

Brisbane is another incredible city to visit in Australia. 

After 2 days in Sydney, however, you may be sick of the crowded city streets. 

Luckily, Brisbane makes a great gateway for exploring more peaceful areas of Queensland. 

There are tons of amazing day trips from Brisbane that allow you to explore nature and see more of Australia, including:

• Burleigh Heads:  a charming coastal town with a massive beach and national park
• Hervey Bay:  one of the best spots in Australia for whale-watching
• Lamington National Park:  full of hiking trails and waterfalls
• Stradbroke Island:  a beautiful location that’s great for kayaking, paddleboarding, and trying other water sports
• Fraser Island:  the world’s largest sand island

After exploring Brisbane and the surrounding areas, catch another cheap domestic flight from the city up to Airlie Beach. 

Read our list of the best things to do in Brisbane for more inspiration!

Airlie Beach is known as one of Australia’s most stunning beaches, complete with soft white sand and clear turquoise water. 

From here, you can soak in the postcard-worthy views in the Whitsundays Islands and do a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef and the famous Whitehaven Beach. 

Book an  ocean rafting day tour  that include all your snorkelling gear and takes you to Whitehaven Beach and the best locations in the Whitsundays.

BONUS –  Booking ahead of time ensures you won’t miss out on the tour, and get the best price too! And just for NOMADasaurus readers, if you use the Klook discount code  “NOMADS10”  on the website when checking out, you’ll get $10 off your first booking!

Snorkelling, scuba diving, and sailing through the Great Barrier Reef will make an unforgettable ending to your 7 day Australia itinerary.

At the end of your week in Australia, you can fly from Airlie Beach back to Sydney for your departing flight. 

2 Week Australia Itinerary

Two weeks in Australia allows you a bit more time to see different areas of the country. 

This two week Australia itinerary will start in Sydney, move down to Victoria to explore Melbourne and the Great Ocean Road , and will then curve up to Adelaide in South Australia and end in Perth in Western Australia. 

So with two weeks in Australia, you can still manage to visit 4 states! If you’d prefer to spend more time in one place rather than jumping around so much, you can always modify this. 

For example, you could skip Perth and spend a few more days exploring New South Wales, Victoria, or South Australia. 

But here is a sample two weeks in Australia itinerary. 

Once again, you’ll fly into Sydney and begin your Australian adventure in the capital city of New South Wales. 

In addition to all the touristy stuff like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House and touring a local art gallery, you could spend one of your days in the lush nature surrounding the city. 

Two perfect day trips from Sydney are:

The Blue Mountains:  Full of waterfalls, scenic lookouts and hiking trails, connected to Sydney by train so you don’t even need a car. Here’s what you should do there .

The Royal National Park:  Dramatic coastal scenery with rugged cliffs and secluded beaches. Check out these awesome Royal National Park walks .

After 3 days in Sydney, hop on a plane for a 1-hour flight down to Melbourne.

As one of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities in Australia,  Melbourne  is a favourite among travellers and locals alike. 

Spend your days in Melbourne visiting street markets, sipping cocktails from rooftop bars, checking out all the cool cafes and restaurants, and experiencing the wild nightlife. 

You can also visit St. Kilda Beach in the south of Melbourne, or head to Brighton Beach to photograph the colourful Brighton Bathing Boxes.

Or take a day trip to Phillip Island or tour the Melbourne Cricket Ground .

After you visit Melbourne, continue on to the famous Great Ocean Road.

One of the highlights of Victoria is the natural wonders of the Great Ocean Road. 

This coastal road runs for 243 kilometers in total and is full of Australian wildlife, quaint little towns, surfing spots, picturesque viewpoints, campgrounds, and overall gorgeous scenery.  

Be sure to see the Twelve Apostles, Split Point Lighthouse, Port Campbell National Park, Apollo Bay, Loch Ard Gorge, and other stunning landscapes along the way.

You can either rent a car from Melbourne and drive the road on your own, or  book a day tour . 

It only takes one day to see all the best spots along the road, but you’ll need to save some time to make your way back to Melbourne and you don’t want to rush. 

You can also stop by the Australian National Surfing Museum in Torquay at the start of the Great Ocean Road.

Fly from Melbourne to Adelaide. 

Spend the next days of your two weeks in Australia itinerary soaking in the culture of  Adelaide . 

Enjoy the delicious food, the museums and galleries, and the laid-back charm of South Australia’s capital. 

One of your 2 days in Adelaide should definitely be spent touring a vineyard and wine tasting in the Barossa Valley. 

Again, you can either rent a car in the city and drive yourself around the vineyards (make sure you don’t drink too much!), or you can book a day trip. 

As one of the most unique places in South Australia, Kangaroo Island makes a super fun day trip from Adelaide. 

Take photos of the interesting rock formations in Flinders Chase National Park , stroll along the pristine golden beaches, or search for some local animals like wallabies, koalas, and of course, kangaroos. 

Head back to Adelaide after Kangaroo Island and hop on another quick flight to Perth to finish up this two week Australia trip.

Read next: 8 Amazing Things to Do in Kangaroo Island, Australia

Your last few days of visiting Australia will be well-spent in Perth, the capital city of Western Australia. 

Enjoy the beaches, explore the Fremantle Markets, visit wineries and wildlife parks, and more.

You could also treat yourself to one last epic adventure in Australia by taking a day trip to Rottnest Island . 

This island is full of fun activities, natural wonders, beautiful views, and cute little quokkas, which are small, native Australian marsupials similar to wallabies. 

After a few days in Perth, either catch your departing flight from here or fly back to Sydney if your flight leaves from there. 

You could also consider a day trip to Margaret River , one of the top wine and surfing regions in Western Australia.

It’s a 3 hour drive from Perth to Margaret River, so only make the trek if you feel like you have time.

3 Week Australia Itinerary

3 weeks in Australia allows you to visit some big cities and tourist spots, but it also allows you to venture out to more remote and isolated areas. 

In this 3 week Australia Itinerary, you’ll visit Sydney and Byron Bay at the start. 

Then you’ll head up to The Gold Coast, and tropical north Queensland to the Daintree Rainforest. 

Continue your journey up north by travelling to Darwin and Kakadu National Park, and then venture inland to Uluru (Ayer’s Rock). 

Again, spend your first couple days in Australia checking out Sydney and maybe doing a day trip to the Blue Mountains of the Hunter Valley Wine Region.

Be sure to visit Sydney Harbour, Darling Harbour, and the famous Bondi Beach during your time in Australia’s largest city.

Then fly to Ballina, a small airport 30 minutes away from Byron Bay. 

Check out our Sydney to Brisbane road trip guide if you’d prefer to rent a car and drive up the east coast.

Byron Bay  is a hub for backpackers, and it is a very fun place to experience when you visit Australia. 

From bar crawls and drum circles on the beach, to night markets and street art, to coastal walks and lovely beaches, a couple days in Byron Bay will feel like bliss. 

Even if you aren’t on a strict backpacker budget, Byron Bay has so many great hostels that it’s worth immersing yourself in the backpacker scene. 

Some of the best hostels in Byron Bay include Wake Up! Byron Bay and Byron Bay Beach hostel. 

Both of these have hundreds of great reviews from travellers cost around $30 per night, which is pretty cheap for Australia. 

If you want to meet other cool people and take part in all the fun social activities of Byron Bay, you may want to stay in one of these fun hostels instead of a hotel!

You can choose to hang out in Byron Bay for a few more days, or catch a flight from Ballina to the Gold Coast for a taste of the Sunshine Coast surf vibes. 

The  Gold Coast  is one of the best places to learn how surfing when you visit Australia. 

You can take a surf lesson from an experienced local and ride the waves, or just relax on the beach, eat some great food, and hit the bars and nightclubs in the evening. 

The Gold Coast combines the excitement of the city with the salty air and water sports of a beachside town, so it’s a diverse and fun place to visit. 

Fly from the Gold Coast up to Cairns. 

The next few days of your 3 week Australia Itinerary will take you up along the coast of Tropical North Queensland. 

This corner of Australia is hot, humid, and jam-packed with rich jungles, Aboriginal culture, waterfalls and the marine life of the Great Barrier Reef. 

Keep in mind that during the rainy season, from October to April, you can’t swim in the ocean here because there may be crocodiles and jellyfish. 

Cairns  is the gateway to tropical north Queensland. 

The real beauty lies outside the city, but spend a couple days adjusting to the heat, partying with the many backpackers, shopping at Rusty’s Fruit Market, and swimming in the big public swimming pool called the Lagoon. 

Also check out Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park and the nearby Barron Gorge National Park near Kuranda.

Then you’ll take the local bus up to Port Douglas. You can buy your bus ticket from any tourism agency or from the main bus station, and take the Cairns to Cooktown route. 

Only about an hour north of Cairns is Port Douglas, a small, relaxed town with one backpacker hostel, a few amazing restaurants, and a nice park lined with palm trees for viewing the sunset. 

This is one of the best places to book a Great Barrier Reef  snorkelling or diving tour  because up here, the reef isn’t as crowded as near Cairns. A snorkelling reef trip is one of the most popular Australia tours and shouldn’t be missed!

So spend one of your days in Port Douglas swimming in the crisp, blue waters of the reef and seeing some incredible, colourful marine life. 

From here, get back on Cairns to Cooktown bus and continue north up to Cape Tribulation in the Daintree Rainforest. 

Located in the midst of the jungle, Cape Tribulation is the perfect place to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. 

There is only one main road running through the town, if you can even call it a town. 

Cape Tribulation has a few resorts and hostels, a couple tourism companies and about two shops, and that’s it. 

But the powerful presence of the rainforest is more than enough to entertain you for a couple days.

The Daintree is the oldest rainforest in the world, and is one of the true natural wonders of Australia.

Go hiking, ride horses on the beach, book an ATV sightseeing tour, do an exotic fruit tasting at Cape Trib Farm, visit the Daintree Discovery Center, or take a boat cruise on the Daintree River to spot some crocodiles. 

Try to avoid visiting Tropical North Queensland in December through February, however. This is the wet season and many roads may be flooded and tours will be closed.

On your third day, take the bus back to Cairns then fly to Darwin. 

Darwin is the capital city of the Northern Territory, and it is a convenient starting point for a trip into Central Australia and Ayers Rock, in the south of the state.

Use this day to walk around and sightsee a bit, relax and unwind, and plan your journey into Kakadu National Park. 

Check out our guide for the best things to do in Darwin!

Rent a car in Darwin and spend the next couple days exploring the largest national park in Australia!

You can swim in waterfalls, find ancient Aboriginal rock art, and go hiking through some incredible landscapes. 

If you have a van or a tent, you can camp at one of the park’s campgrounds. Otherwise there is a handful of resorts where you can stay overnight in Kakadu. 

Most of the accommodation in Kakadu is located in Jabiru, the main town of the park. 

You could also  book a guided tour  to Kakadu as a day trip from Darwin. This is a good option for those who want to take a break from planning and driving. A tour will take you right to the best spots in the park, which is handy because the park is so huge.

After exploring the national park, drive back to Darwin and then fly to Alice Springs at the heart of Australia’s Red Centre. 

(Alternatively if you don’t want to keep travelling so much, you could stay in the Northern Territory and explore more natural wonders like Nitmiluk National Park.)

From Alice Springs in the center of the Northern Territory, it’s time to begin your journey to Uluru!

The Red Centre is the central desert area of Australia, consisting of Alice Springs and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park.

Uluru, or Ayers Rock, is a sacred monolith and it one of the most famous places to see on a trip to Australia.

You have two options for getting to Uluru. 

Option 1:  Rent a car in Alice Springs and complete the 5-hour drive on your own. Keep in mind it’s also 5 hours to get back, so that’s a 10 hour road trip in total. You should also have your own camping gear and pack enough food and water for the road trip.

Option 2:  Book a tour from Alice Springs if you are tired of driving. You can  choose a straightforward day trip . It’s a bit pricier to do a guided tour, but it takes away a lot of the effort on your part. 

Either way, watching the sunrise and sunset bathe Uluru in soft, natural hues is a sight you’ll never forget, so the journey is worth it. 

If you are renting a car and doing your own road trip, consider also heading out to Watarrka National Park and Kings Canyon. This amazing spot is a 3 hour drive from Ayers Rock, which is a short drive for the Outback!

READ MORE: Check out all the incredible things to do in Uluru !

Your final day of the 3 week Australia itinerary will mostly be spent travelling. 

Drive back to Alice Springs, then fly back to Sydney for your flight home.

I just want to add that there are many other natural wonders that I didn’t get to mention!

Australia is massive so it’s hard to fit in so many cool places in a short time.

For example, the north of Western Australia is stunning, but it’s very remote and not convenient to add to a few weeks in Australia.

Few Australians even make it out here on holiday.

But riding a camel on Cable Beach , snorkelling with Whale Sharks in Exmouth , or camping in Cape Range National Park are amazing experiences that you can have if you have the time to venture out there.

Tasmania is also one of the most gorgeous places in Australia. The island is home to some of the best hiking and camping in the country , but it requires lots of prior planning and preparation and gear.

You could also road trip around Australia, taking more time to see all the attractions and not having to rush.

But it would take you months or even years to road trip all of Australia!

Regardless of how much time you spend here, don’t stress about seeing everything!

It’s impossible to see everything, and no matter where you go, you’re sure to have an epic time.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Have you got any info/tips about Central Australia? Adelaide, Coober Pedy, Alice Springs to Darwin (Stuart Hwy).

Would like more information on all inclusive 3 wk itinerary for family of about 12.

All the best with your research. Have a great trip.

Terrific article. Thanks so much for the insight!

Thank you so much. Glad the article was helpful 🙂

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Australia’s 20 best travel experiences, ranked by Lonely Planet

Choosing Australia’s top travel experiences is not easy, and while many usual suspects appear in Lonely Planet’s list, some may even surprise locals

At 7.6m sq km, spanning eight climate and three time zones, Australia is a big country. So where do you start?

In making their new book, Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Australia Travel List, the travel guide publisher began by compiling every highlight in their existing books. “We then asked our writers, editors, designers and cartographers in Australia to reveal their favourite spots and experiences,” they say. From there, they solicited votes from a panel of travel experts and members of their community.

The result, “with hundreds of votes cast and a bit of mathematical alchemy, as well as a keen eye on sustainability practices”, is a new book of 500 experiences. They also ended up with “one very clear winner”.

Here is that winner, along with the rest of the book’s Top 20 experiences.

1. Fall silent before the majesty and gravitas of Uluru

Northern Territory/ Anangu Country

The landscape of Uluru changes dramatically with the shifting light and seasons. In the afternoon, Uluru appears as an ochre-brown colour, scored and pitted by dark shadows.

As the sun sets, it illuminates the rock in burnished orange, then a series of deeper and darker reds before it fades into charcoal. A performance in reverse, with marginally fewer spectators, is given at dawn.

Uluru is a beautiful, charismatic place. Its dimensions are one thing: it is 3.6km long and rises 348m from the surrounding sands (867m above sea level). If that’s not sufficiently impressive, remember this: two-thirds of the rock lies beneath the sand.

Uluru is a monolith textured with layers of profound spirituality and timeless beauty, the epitome of desert stillness and, in the plays of light and shadow that dance across its surface, one of the richest shows in nature. The sunset viewing areas are once-in-a-lifetime experiences understanding its singular beauty when surrounded by the vast desert around it.

You can also get up close by taking one of the walks that encircle the base. There are many options, but most fold into the Uluru Base walk, a 10.6km circumnavigation of the rock. Along the way, it passes caves, paintings, sandstone folds and geological abrasions and generally initiates you into the scope and detail of this remarkable place.

Sacred sites are everywhere; entry to and knowledge of the particular significance of these areas is restricted by local law, and knowing this only adds to Uluru’s mystery.

The walk takes you away from the crowds – very few visitors spend long enough here to get to know Uluru this well. There is no better way to experience the rock.

Around 1km from the rock itself, the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre adds depth and perspective to your Uluru experience. Displays and exhibits focus on Tjukurpa (Aboriginal law, religion and custom) and on the natural and human history of the park. Park rangers can supply the informative visitor guide, leaflets and walking notes, as well as other park information.

2. Be confronted and inspired by art at the extraordinary Mona

Tasmania/ Palawa Country

Undeniably eccentric, the Museum of Old and New Art (almost universally known as Mona) has ushered Hobart on to the world’s cultural stage.

Opened in 2011, and housed in a Nonda Katsalidis-designed three-storey bunker burrowed into the Triassic sandstone of a peninsula jutting into the Derwent River, Mona is a showcase for founder and owner David Walsh’s remarkable collection of ancient, modern and contemporary art, which is loosely curated under the themes of sex and death.

All cultural roads lead to Mona in January (for Mona Fofa, or Mofo for short) and June (for Dark Mofo) for Tasmania’s largest contemporary music festival.

SEE IT! Mona is 12km north of Hobart’s city centre. The best way to get here is on the museum’s ferry, which departs from Brooke St Pier.

3. Be mesmerised by the Great Barrier Reef

Queensland/Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sea country

The Great Barrier Reef isn’t just the world’s largest living organism. Visible from outer space, it’s also one of the planet’s most precious ecosystems – and a gobsmackingly beautiful one to boot.

Home to more than 600 hard and soft coral species and a colourful array of other marine creatures, from tiny nudibranchs (sea slugs) to huge manta rays, this World Heritage-listed area also has cultural significance to more than 70 local Indigenous groups, their connections to the reef dating back some 60,000 years.

It’s no secret, of course, that the Great Barrier Reef faces a number of threats. Yet from coral planting dive trips to Indigenous-led reef tours, there are more opportunities than ever to experience this fragile ecosystem sustainably, helping to ensure that this incredible slice of nature can be enjoyed for generations of visitors to come.

4. Find freedom on the Great Ocean Road

Victoria/ Gadubanud and Girai wurrung Country

As its name rightfully declares, the Great Ocean Road is no ordinary stretch of bitumen. This is one of the world’s bucket-list drives, a 243km blockbuster of breathtaking coastal vistas, koala-speckled gums, nostalgic holiday towns and rolling dairy farms. Officially bookended by Torquay and Allansford, the route takes in the arresting beauty of Port Campbell national park.

The entire drive can be tackled as a long day trip from Melbourne, though it pays to stay longer. Spend at least a few days riding waves and horses on Fairhaven Beach, chomping on fresh crayfish at Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-op and snooping around time-warped sites like Cape Otway Lightstation.

The Great Ocean Road weaves through Great Otway national park, where walking trails lead through temperate rainforest splashed by waterfalls. If you fancy a multi-day trek, ditch the wheels altogether and hit the 104km Great Ocean walk, the most intimate way to experience this fabled stretch of surf.

5. Walk alongside Australia’s highest sea cliffs on the Three Capes track

Tasmania/Palawa Country

Any list of epic Australian bushwalks is bound to contain the Three Capes track. Traversing a well-maintained path alongside the lofty sea cliffs in Tasman national park, this four-day, 48km trek kicks off after walkers are dropped by boat at the Denmans Cove trailhead.

The route links the cove with Cape Raoul, Cape Pillar and Cape Hauy before finishing on the sandy shores of Fortescue Bay. Scenery includes eucalypt forests, coastal heathland and ocean views for as far as the eye can see.

Accommodation is in ranger-supervised camps with architect-designed huts that are almost as good looking as the eye-popping coastal scenery.

You’ll walk up the slopes of Crescent Mountain and Mt Fortescue and down to Ellarwey Valley, seeing native flora and fauna aplenty. Daredevils can scale the well-named Blade Rock formation at Cape Pillar and plunge into the icy surf at Fortescue Bay. The track is described as being achievable for most ages and abilities, but some bushwalking experience is recommended.

WALK IT! Tasman national park is 100km south-east of Hobart. Boats collect walkers at Port Arthur. Daily walker numbers are capped, so book well ahead .

6. Explore the weird and wonderful rock formations of Bungle Bungles

Western Australia/ Jaru And Gidja Country The bizarre, ancient, beehive domes of the World Heritage-listed Purnululu national park will take your breath away. Known colloquially as the Bungle Bungles, these remote rocky ranges are the finest example of cone karst sandstone anywhere in the world.

The distinctive rounded rock towers are made of sandstone and conglomerates moulded by rainfall over millions of years. To the local Gidja people, “purnululu” means sandstone, with Bungle Bungle possibly a corruption of “bundle bundle”, a common grass. The park is rich in fauna and flora, the walks take you through shady palm-fringed gorges, and the sunsets here are sublime. There’s refreshingly little infrastructure and it’s never crowded.

SEE IT! Access is via a rough, unsealed, flood-prone 4WD-only track from the Great Northern Hwy north of Halls Creek, or by air on a package tour from Kununurra or Warmun. For more information, visit www.parkstay.dpaw.wa.gov.au .

7. Enjoy the ultimate rainforest experience in Daintree national park

Queensland/Kuku Yalanji Country

The oldest tropical rainforest on the planet, the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest is like a real life Jurassic Park, complete with living dinosaurs, from cassowaries to crocs.

South of the Daintree River, the Indigenous-run Mossman Gorge is the most accessible of the park’s two sections. Here an elevated boardwalk tracing the crystal-clear Mossman River connects to a scenic 2.4km rainforest circuit. Learn more about the Kuku Yalanji connections to this verdant oasis on a tour with Ngadiku Dreamtime Walks.

Some say you haven’t been to the Daintree until you’ve visited the Cape Tribulation section of the park north of the Daintree River, where rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef. Allow several days to soak up this lush wilderness, dotted with rainforest boardwalks and idyllic croc-free swimming holes.

SEE IT! From Port Douglas it’s a 20-minute drive west to Mossman Gorge, and a 40-minute drive to the Daintree River Ferry.

8. Set sail for Kangaroo Island’s wilderness and wildlife

South Australia/Kartan Country

Kangaroo Island (KI) was scorched by bushfires in Australia’s “Black Summer” of 2019–20, but remains a veritable zoo of seals, birds, dolphins, echidnas and (of course) kangaroos. Island produce (wine, seafood, gin, beer), surf beaches and the kooky rock formations of Flinders Chase national park are also highlights.

These days, KI is rurally paced with a scattering of laid-back towns – the kind of place where kids ride bikes to school and farmers advertise for wives on noticeboards. The excellent five-day, 64km coastal Kangaroo Island Wilderness trail was ravaged by the fires, but trail reconstruction is under way: watch this space.

SEE IT! KI is big! You can’t see it all in a day. Bring your car on the ferry and explore over a weekend.

9. Marvel at the Milky Way in the Warrumbungle Dark Sky Park

New South Wales/Kamilaroi Country The night sky unrolls around you each night in the Warrumbungle national park, Australia’s first and only Dark Sky Park. The 233 sq km park has been internationally recognised for its stunning views of the stars due to its high altitude, low humidity and carefully monitored light pollution.

With four observatories to choose from, you can stargaze well into the night. Siding Springs Observatory is home to the largest optical telescope in Australia – with a mirror measuring 3.9m, the Anglo Australia telescope is capable of viewing quasars up to 12bn light years away.

The Warrumbungles still have plenty to offer once the sun rises. Avid bushwalkers are sure to enjoy the rugged volcanic landscape. The Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk will bring you close to the park’s most impressive formations. With over 190 bird species recorded within the park, birdwatchers should be sure to look out for emus, wedge-tailed eagles and the southern boobook owl.

For a more relaxing option, take a trip along the world’s largest Virtual Solar System Drive. The dome of the Siding Springs Observatory represents the sun, with scaled model planets stretching the whole 200km to Dubbo.

10. Light up your time in Sydney at the Vivid festival

New South Wales/Gadigal Country

During Vivid Sydney, video art and massive images are projected on to Sydney’s iconic architecture, with the sails of the Opera House, the arches of the Harbour Bridge and the sandstone buildings of the Rocks all transformed into leviathan canvases for a shimmering collage of spotlights, laser beams and electrified sky-high street art.

Journey on the harbour at night on the Manly Ferry for brilliant views, or join a chartered boat trip to take in the best of the glowing spectacle. Beyond the illuminations, music is also a stunning part of the Vivid experience, from big international artists to more intimate performances from the best of Australia’s emerging talent.

SEE IT ! The festival is held annually for three weeks. The 2022 festival will take place from 27 May to 18 June.

11. Go wild on mainland Australia’s southernmost point, Wilsons Prom

Victoria/Brataualung Country

Hitting rock bottom is a good thing when it involves Wilsons Promontory. Occupying the southernmost point of mainland Australia, the 305 sq km national park claims some of Victoria’s most varied, magnificent natural landscapes: salt-white Squeaky Beach, the Saharan dunes of the Big Drift, the lushness of Lilly Pilly Gully.

Walking tracks lead over ridges, across heathland and through headily scented bush alive with kangaroos, wombats, echidnas and iridescent birdlife. The Telegraph Saddle to Sealers Cove route (10.3km) is especially memorable, weaving through fern gullies and swampland to a forest-backed beach. It’s the first section of the challenging, multi-day Southern Circuit (59km), whose stops also include the monumental Oberon Bay.

A much quicker way to admire the bay’s sweep is from panoramic Mt Oberon, an easy 6.8km return hike from the Telegraph Saddle car park. Head up at sunset and pinch yourself. SEE IT! Tidal River is the park’s hub, with visitor information, a general store and accommodation. Avoid school holiday periods and book accommodation in advance at www.parks.vic.gov.au .

12. Experience wildlife and Indigenous history in Kakadu

Northern Territory/ Bininj/Mungguy Country

Kakadu ranks among the world’s great national parks. Its wetlands and escarpments shelter abundant wildlife and rock art that dates back 20,000 years. This is the land of the Bininj/Mungguy, whose presence brings soul and spirituality to any visit here.

In just a few days you can cruise on billabongs bursting with wildlife, examine millennia-old rock paintings under the care of an Indigenous guide, swim in pools at the foot of tumbling waterfalls and hike through ancient sandstone escarpment country. Ubirr and Nourlangie are the main rock-art sites, Jim Jim has the best falls, Cahill’s Crossing is terrific for crocs, and Yellow Water (Ngurrungurrudjba) is great for birds and other wildlife. Kakadu is very popular and can become crowded – in the Dry at least. But this is a vast park, and with a little adventurous spirit you can easily get off the beaten track and be alone with nature.

13. Be wowed by white sands and crystalline water at Wineglass Bay

The show-stealing centrepiece of Freycinet national park, curvaceous Wineglass Bay is Tasmania’s most famous beach for good reason. Its blindingly white sand and pink granite headlands splashed with flaming orange lichen are almost ludicrously photogenic, and a walk along its length to Hazards Beach is almost as rewarding as a swim in its gin-clear water.

Views of the bay are best appreciated from the Wineglass Bay Lookout, a 90 minute walk from the national park’s walking track car park. From here, 1,000 steps lead down to the beach. Those who choose to stay longer and walk further can set off on the Freycinet Peninsula Circuit, a three-day, 30km trek around the peninsula from Hazards Beach south to Cooks Beach, then across the peninsula over a heathland plateau before descending to Wineglass Bay.

SEE IT! Wineglass Bay is 200km north-east of Hobart, via the Tasman Hwy (A3) and C302.

14. Hit the Grampians for an epic hike in Victoria’s Garden of Eden

Victoria/ Jardwadjali and Djab wurrung Country

Hitchcock couldn’t have directed it better himself. A long, eerie crevasse; a sharp left turn, then – BAM! – Pinnacles Lookout and its knockout vista over ranges and plains.

Gotcha moments are thick on the ground when hiking Grampians national park, its sandstone peaks rising like petrified gods. While there are plenty of short strolls – the 4km Mt William (Duwul) Summit walk is breathtaking – the Grampians Peaks trail is the ultimate lace-up adventure.

A 160km long, 13-day odyssey, it spans the entire length of the Grampians (Gariwerd), from Mt Zero (Mura Mura) in the north to the culinary hamlet of Dunkeld in the south. Along it, precious landscapes unfurl, from woodlands and waterfalls to cooling fern valleys. Harboured within: red-tailed black cockatoos, endangered pincushion lilies and the haunting handprints and figures of Aboriginal rock art shelters like Ngamadjidj and Gulgurn Manja.

HIKE IT! See www.grampianspeakstrail.com.au for trail information. Foodies should book a night at Dunkeld’s Royal Mail Hotel.

15. Elevate your Sydney experience on the Bondi to Coogee clifftop walk

Say good morning to the perfect way to take in the best of Sydney’s coastal scenery. The simply sensational 6km Bondi to Coogee walk leads south from Bondi Beach along the clifftops via Tamarama, Bronte and Clovelly, interweaving panoramic views, patrolled beaches, sea baths, waterside parks and plaques recounting local Aboriginal stories. Pack your swimmers if the weather’s warm.

WALK IT! The trail begins at the southern end of Notts Ave near Bondi’s Hunter Park, and completes its view-friendly route near Dunningham Reserve at the northern end of Coogee.

16. Immerse yourself in the remarkable desert rocks of Kata Tjuta

There’s nowhere on earth quite like Kata Tjuta (formerly the Olgas), a striking group of domed rocks huddled together about 35km west of Uluru. The deep valleys and steep-sided gorges contain sites which are sacred to the local Anangu people.

The tallest rock, Mt Olga (546m; 1,066m above sea level) is higher than Uluru. The Valley of the Winds loop, one of the most rewarding bushwalks in Australia’s Red Centre, winds through the gorges and past surreal domes in hues of the deepest red offset by the blue of the desert sky. Elsewhere, Walpa Gorge is especially beautiful in the afternoon, when sunlight floods the gorge. The views from the Sand Dune Lookout, off the road to Uluru, put everything in perspective.

17. Revere Port Campbell national park’s Apostles

Victoria/Girai wurrung Country

You couldn’t ask for a grander finale to the Great Ocean Road. As it shakes off the tortuousness of the Otway Ranges, forest turns to weather-beaten scrub, the sky bursts open and the route shoots west along a flat, narrow escarpment dropping away to terrifying ocean-pounded cliffs. This is Port Campbell national park, home to Victoria’s geological superstars, the Twelve Apostles.

Out of cold, savage waters they rise – monumental limestone stacks, abandoned by the retreating coastline. In truth, there are fewer than 12, but this fails to diminish their impact.

Less famous but no less spectacular are the Bay of Islands and London Bridge rock stacks, just west of sleepy Port Campbell township. Once a double-arched rock platform, London Bridge indeed fell down in 1990, leaving two terrified tourists marooned on the world’s newest island – they were eventually rescued by helicopter.

To the east of the Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge is where the Shipwreck Coast’s most famous and haunting tale unfolded, when two young survivors of the wrecked iron clipper Loch Ard made it to shore. From the clifftop, a path leads down to the cave where the pair took shelter.

The best time to visit is at sunset, not only for the optimal Instagram opportunities (and to beat the tour buses), but also to catch a glimpse of little penguins returning. Sightings vary, but generally the penguins arrive 30 minutes after sunset; don’t forget your binoculars!

18. Reconcile the laid-back splendour of Rottnest Island with its gruesome past

Western Australia/ Noongar Country

With warm water, sunken wrecks, diverse marine life and 63 beaches, it’s little wonder people flock to “Rotto” to swim, fish, laze, dive, snorkel, surf and sea-kayak their cares away. And of course, no trip to Rottnest is complete without the obligatory selfie with the incredibly cute, furry and all-too-trusting quokka.

Highlights include “The Basin”, a family- friendly seawater pool, and the 20m Wadjemup Lighthouse on the island’s highpoint. Wadjemup is a Noongar word meaning “place across the water where the spirits are” – rather apt, given at least 373 unmarked graves hold the victims of a harsh and cruel prison for Aboriginal people operating during the 1800s.

19. Catch the Manly Ferry across one of the world’s greatest harbours

New South Wales/Guringai Country

The Manly Ferry is one of Sydney’s best bargains for visitors to the city. Take in Opera House and Harbour Bridge views before sliding past the ritzy suburbs of Point Piper and Rose Bay and exiting the rocky promontories of the Sydney Heads.

Opposite Manly Wharf, refresh with a beer at the 4 Pines brewpub before strolling along the Corso to the surf, sand and Norfolk pine-lined esplanade of Sydney’s second-most famous beach. Pretty good for around $10.

CRUISE IT! The Manly Ferry departs from Wharf 3 at Circular Quay and takes around 20 minutes.

20. Dive into Queensland’s Museum of Underwater Art

Queensland/Bindal and Wulgurukaba Sea Country

As if the Great Barrier Reef wasn’t epic enough, you can now explore an underwater sculpture garden. The second instalment of the Townsville region’s Museum of Underwater Art, the Coral Greenhouse features 20 human figures performing conservation work in and around a submerged conservatory.

Designed by the renowned sculptor, Jason deCaires Taylor, in collaboration with Indigenous groups, the installation complements the Ocean SirTen sculpture.

DIVE IT! Dive tours to the Coral Greenhouse run from Townsville and Magnetic Island.

This is an edited extract from Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Australia Travel List , $39.99. Available now.

• Australia holidays
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Big Australia Bucket List

Absolutely EVERYTHING to see, do and experience in Australia

25+ ESSENTIAL Travel Tips for Australia (Know Before You Go!)

Australia, or the “Land Down Under”, is one of the most coveted tourist destinations in the world – with its fine balance between wildlife and environment conservation and cosmopolitan modern-day living.

Both a country and a continent, Australia definitely has a lot in store for repeat and first-time travellers alike! Witness kangaroos and koalas right before your eyes, dip in pristine ocean waters, soak up the summer heat and the tingling sensation of the sun onto your skin, and enjoy scenic views of bustling cities and breathtaking nature throughout your travels!

Be sure to read this guide to our most essential travel tips for Australia before packing your bags and preparing for this once-in-a-lifetime trip! It’s the only list of Australia travel tips you will ever need and it’s everything you need to know before you go!

Table of Contents

• 1.1 The Best Time To Visit Australia
• 1.2 Australia is HUGE
• 1.3.1 By plane
• 1.3.2 By bus
• 1.3.3 By train
• 1.3.4 By Ferry
• 1.3.5 By car
• 1.4 Public WiFi Availability in Australia
• 1.5 The Emergency number in Australia
• 1.6 Swim Between The Flags
• 1.7 You have to try local beer, coffee & wine in Australia
• 1.8 Kangaroos and koalas are not that common in Australia
• 1.9 Aussies use Australian English
• 1.10 (Outside of a Pub) You Buy Alcohol either from a Warehouse or A Drive Through Bottle Shop
• 1.11 Is Australia Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
• 2.1 Where are the Best Places to Visit in Australia
• 2.2 How To Plan Your Budget for your visit to Australia 
• 2.3 Our Money Looks like Monopoly Money
• 3.1 Australian border control is very strict
• 3.2 Free walking apps for cities in Australia
• 3.3.1 Money changing
• 3.3.2 Credit card skimming
• 3.3.3 Tours from unreliable guides or websites
• 3.4 Learn the Lingo: Basic Language Tips for Australia
• 3.5 Tipping Culture in Australia
• 3.6 Pre-book popular attractions in Australia
• 4 5 Quick Australian Dos and Don’ts

GENERAL TRAVEL INFO FOR VISITORS TO AUSTRALIA

Visa: Unless you are an Australian or New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, or identify as a Torres Strait Island – practically everyone else needs a travel visa to enter Australia. Folks from the USA, UK and several other European countries are eligible for the free Visitor which allows visitors to stay for up to 3 months for each entry in a 12 month period.

That’s plenty of time to explore – but if you want to stay longer, there are other visas available too. Use the Australian Governments (free) visa finder tool to find the right one for you.

Currency: The official currency in Australia is the Australian Dollar ($, AUD). You can withdraw currency from ATMs using your local bank card or a designated travel card. If you are visiting from another country, be sure to check any fees and charges from your bank prior to using it and carry a second source of payment/cash in case your primary card gets ‘eaten’ by an ATM.

Language: English (Although Australia has no ‘official’ langauge, English is the most common language and is spoken throughout the country.) Almost 80% of all residents speak English at home, with Mandarin (2.5%) and Arabic (1.4%) spoken at home in small percentages.

WiFi/Internet Access: Depending on your length of stay and in what country, you can either purchase a local sim card (in advance or on arrival) – to swap out with the one in your own phone to avoid roaming charges. OR, grab a pay as you go portable Wifi Devices which means you can keep your sim active and connect wirelessly. Just remember to turn off data roaming so you don’t incur any hefty charges.

Essential Travel Tips for Australia for First Time Visitors: The Practical Stuff

The best time to visit australia.

If you’re in it for the most perfect time to visit – specifically when the weather’s not too hot nor cold and when flights are relatively cheap – you must go between March-May and September-November.

If you’re the “always in for summer” type of traveler, you must visit from December to February. During this season, the average temperature can be anywhere between 15-30 degrees. So, be sure to bring a water bottle and hydrate!

If you’re in it for a lot of food and wine thrills, you have to plan your visit from March to May (a.k.a. the Autumn season). You have to brace yourself, though! This particular period is the busiest of all. Expect big crowds, busier places, and jam-packed tourist destinations.

If you fancy an all-white season and game for an intense snow skiing sesh, head for the mountains in Victoria, Southern New South Wales, and Tasmania sometime during the winter. The Winter season in Australia begins in June and extends up until August.

If you want to try diving, surfing, kayaking, canoeing, and other water-related activities and experiences, time your visit for between September to November and head to the North East coast. Remember to pack your sunblock and sunglasses along with you!

TOP TIP: Wear sunblock. Even on a cloudy day. The sun is very strong in Australia and it is easy to get burnt. Don’t stand out as a tourist by turning bright red!

Australia is HUGE

How To Get Around Australia

Australia sure is a BIG country to explore. But, would you believe it if I tell you it’s very easy to go around in it? Australia has a lot of transport systems made readily available and accessible for all types of travellers out there!

Australia has a bunch of domestic airlines to save you in travelling around large distances. You may start getting yourself familiar with the following: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Tiger Airways, and Rex. Knowing about their routes might give you a headstart in planning for your very own itinerary, as well as your budget!

If you’re one who enjoys travelling the long way to explore whatever you can, taking the bus in Australia is perfect for you to cover longer distances. Be comforted to know that coach and bus travel in the country is not only comfortable but also efficient and reasonably priced given their amenities. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, reading lights, and airconditioning throughout!

If you want to witness Australia in the most scenic yet convenient way possible, opt for the trains. Believe me when I say the train is the way to go.

• TrainLink: It runs from Sydney through New South Wales, down through Canberra to Melbourne and North to Brisbane in Queensland.
• V-Line: It connects Melbourne with regional hubs located in Victoria.
• Queensland Rail: It covers the entirety of Queensland.
• TransWA: It has services through Western Australia.
• The Ghan Train and Indian Pacific: Both generally sweep through the country. The Ghan specifically travels to and from Adelaide and Darwin, Red Centre, and the Top End. The Indian Pacific, on the other hand, runs between Sydney and Perth, through Broken Hill, Adelaide, and Kalgoorlie.

If you want to experience everything Australia offers, you also have to try getting on board on a ferry (and depending on where that is, you may need to have the stomach for it, as well!).

• Spirit of Tasmania: It operates a nightly passenger and vehicle ferry service from Melbourne (Victoria) and Devonport (Tasmania) – and is a notoriously bumpy crossing.
• SeaLink: Connects Cape Jervis (South Australia) and Kangaroo Island multiple times a day.
• Other ferry services: Other ferry services also operate that connect suburbs to capital cities such as those that run in and around Sydney Harbour, or those on the Swan River in Perth or on the Brisbane River.

Travelling in a car in Australia will give you comfort and the best road trip experience there is in the world! In case you didn’t know, the country boasts of its network of well-maintained roads.

Public WiFi Availability in Australia

Yup, don’t worry. We understand the need to connect to the internet, especially when traveling abroad. If you don’t have a local sim card and/or a portable WiFi device, lucky for you ⁠— we searched for this complete list of free WiFi hotspots around Australia . Just remember to be cautious, though. Hackers can easily have access to your personal information when you connect to these.

The Emergency number in Australia

Although we’re hoping you won’t ever have a need for this number, it’s always better to be prepared than sorry. Dial 000 (triple zero) when you encounter an emergency and are requiring the assistance of the police, fire, or ambulance departments.

Swim Between The Flags

While spending a day on the sand and frolicking in the water sounds like a great idea – a lot of beaches have lifeguards present for a reason. The rips around Australia can be life-threatening and must be respected. If there is a lifeguard on duty on the beach you find yourself on, be sure to swim between the flags they have set up. They are there to show you the safest point on the beach for swimming.

You have to try local beer, coffee & wine in Australia

In case you didn’t know, Aussies invented the Flat White. And if you are a coffee drinker, you have to try one in Melbourne – where coffee culture is practically a religion!

Aside from coffee, you may also want to spend some time enjoying the Australian craft beer scene, and having a glass ( or bottle ) or two of some of the worlds best wines. From Margaret River to the Yarra Valley, Hunter Valley to the Barossa – there is no shortage of incredible wine in this country.

Just remember to be a responsible drinker – and absolutely DO NOT drink and drive.

Kangaroos and koalas are not that common in Australia

There are plenty of places to see them though. From numerous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries to secluded spots out in the country. Read our complete guide to Australian animals here to find out more. Also, not all Aussie animals are trying to kill you. Just around 75% of them!

Aussies use Australian English

Australian English is relatively different from American English or any other English for the matter – specifically in spelling, pronunciation, slang and shortening of some words. Oh and swearing is pretty common among friends in day to day conversation.

‘Mate’ is used universally – whether you’re the friend of a person or a complete stranger. It is a uniquely Aussie phenomenon which when used implies a sense of shared experience, mutual respect and unconditional assistance.

Nicknames, and the shortening of most words – often ends in -O, -A or -Y/-IE: Stevo (name), Arvo (afternoon), Straya (Australia), Barbie (BBQ) Footy (Football – Australian, not English), Accadacca (AC/DC), Tinny (can of beer), Servo (Petrol/Service Station), Bottle-O (The equivalent of a British ‘Off-Licence’ where alcohol is purchased for consumption off the premises, etc)

This might take a little bit of getting used to and may need a bit of translation from a local from time to time (but scroll down – we have included a few basic words below to give you a head start!)

(Outside of a Pub) You Buy Alcohol either from a Warehouse or A Drive Through Bottle Shop

And if that concept doesn’t blow your mind, you also can’t buy alcohol from the supermarket (like in the UK), but have to go to a dedicated alcohol shop/liquor store. There are often smaller, separated buildings located next to the supermarket (and which often sell alcohol at a premium price for the convenience) and are owned by the supermarkets. Coles has Liquorland, Woolworths has BWS etc.

Or you can satisfy your alcohol needs (and get cheaper prices) with a visit to Dan Murphys – which is essentially a warehouse full of beer, wine & spirits. Affectionately known as Uncle Dan’s by many across Australia, these huge buildings are located on retail parks which you wouldn’t normally walk to – and can’t walk back from carrying your haul (case of wine/slab of beer etc) – as it’s typically always cheaper to buy in bulk.

Is Australia Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

• Keep an eye on your belongings (bag/camera/phone etc) and be aware of your surroundings (for example, don’t have your head down glued to your phone)
• Be cautious and vigilant in busy areas or in crowds.
• Be wary of the ‘overly helpful’ local. The one who approaches you with stories and tips but seems to want nothing in exchange. And don’t feel obliged to give them anything.
• Be mindful of your drinking – that’s not to say not to drink, but alcohol lowers your inhibitions and reaction time. And a bag of Aussie Goon is a pretty standard item among the backpacker crowd and considered part of the Australian travelling experience!

• Walk with purpose – it will make you appear more confident and especially in Australian cities, will help you blend in with the locals.
• And finally, take note of where the exits are – wherever you are throughout Australia. You know, like you do on a plane. If there is an emergency, or you need to get away quickly, knowing where the exit is can be invaluable.

Top Australia Tips for Your First Visit: The Fun Stuff

Where are the best places to visit in australia.

Spread out across this vast country, Australia has eight city capitals, one within each State & Terriroty, which are all wonderfully unique packed with exceptional dining experiences, historic attractions, and non-stop shopping opportunities. Here’s why you need to visit each of them which will help in planning your trip:

• Canberra is situated in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). It is the national capital, a city known for its cultural treasures and vibrant annual festivals.
• Sydne y is the largest capital in the country home to the famous Sydney Opera House, The Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach and close to the Blue Mountains for a perfect day trip from Sydney!

• Melbourne is the “Culture Capital of Australia” and one of the major cities in Victoria. From fashion to art, to film, to food, to sports, to music, to kids events, or to spiritual and multicultural festivals… Name it, Melbourne has it! (and some great day trips fro Melbourne too!)
• Hobart houses some of Australia’s convict era remnants adjoined with its panoramic coastal scenery. This picturesque city holds a number of interesting places to see including (but not limited to, of course) the charming Georgian era towns and villages!
• Cairns  is Australia’s adventure travel paradise – with bungee jumps and jungle swings, scuba diving and snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, Skydiving over beaches and seaplane flights. For an adrenaline kick, head to Cairns.
• Adelaide is the perfect escape from the bustling crowds you might find elsewhere in Australia. It has surrounding hills to the east, beautiful beaches to the west (don’t miss Hervey Bay), luxuriously wide boulevards, and breathtaking park and garden views!
• Perth has a small population, the greatest weather year-round, and has a convenient location to stunning beaches. If this doesn’t make you want to visit Perth, I don’t know what else will!

• Darwin is the top end’s darling! From its World War II history to its very diverse food scene, to the best tropical lifestyle an Australian traveler could want, not to mention the different Outback tours through Kakadu National Park offered from the city – Darwin in the Northern Territory is the best place to be!
• Brisbane houses the liveliest subtropical paradise with ever-delicious food, coffee, as well as an epic music and arts scene. Not to mention the fact that it’s just an hour away from the world’s best beaches on the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast.

How To Plan Your Budget for your visit to Australia 

If there’s one thing you ought to know about Australia, especially if you’re a first-time traveler, is that it can be quite (sometimes really) expensive. To experience it at its best, you have to allot around $100-$200 per day for your accommodations, food, and activities.

Sad to say, though, transportation is a totally different conversation – meaning you need to allot a separate budget for it. Doing your research might do the trick in helping you get the best deals possible and that means everything!

What to eat in Australia

• Vegemite –  a dark brown paste made from various vegetables, yeast extract and spice additives. Regardless of anyone telling you not to try it because it tastes weird , I say still do! Who knows, you might like it more than you can probably imagine.
• Tim Tams – a famous Australian chocolate biscuit, which, anyone hardly says no to. Do yourself a favour by grabbing one and snack on it to your heart’s content!
• Chicken Parmigiana – although not particularly of Australian descent, you will most certainly encounter this dish in most Australian pubs  — and it’s worth the try!
• Fish and Chips – as the country is surrounded by oceans, it’s easy to say that their fish recipes are the bomb! This one’s definitely a must-try for the tourists.
• Pavlova – a meringue cake base topped with whipped cream and fruit that you can score from a cake shop, a bakery, or from major supermarket chains (directly look for it in the frozen dessert section).

Our Money Looks like Monopoly Money

Bet y’all want our funky money now, huh?!

Useful Tips & Friendly Advice for your First Visit to Australia

Australian border control is very strict.

Bringing prohibited items, whether or not you’re aware, will result in serious borderline problems. Included in the roster of forbidden things include fruits, vegetables, meat, eggs, feathers, weapons, firearms, and wildlife among other things. It’s best to double-check your things before embarking on a trip of your lifetime by doing your research.

Free walking apps for cities in Australia

Scams to avoid in Australia

Australia being a great country and a continent by itself makes it not vulnerable to travel-related scams. Sad, but true. Here are several things you need to watch out for and avoid when traveling to Australia:

Money changing

Yup, it sounds so old school but it still happens anywhere – might be at a restaurant where the cashier switches you $50 for $5 and tells you you didn’t give enough cash, at an attraction, or right at the money changer. When dealing with money, it’s always better to double-check and try to book your activities in advance so you have total control.

Credit card skimming

Basically, credit (or debit) card skimming is the act of illegal duplication of information from the magnetic strip of your card. As much as possible, be wary especially when the restaurant personnel collects your card and swipes it out of your sight.

Tours from unreliable guides or websites

To make sure you’re not booking some dodgy day tours, you have to make sure you’re booking from official travel agencies. Before clicking that purchase button, do your research. Check reviews, ask for recommendations from your friends and family – or particularly anyone you trust. Doing so will be helpful during the time of an accident or an emergency.

Learn the Lingo: Basic Language Tips for Australia

• Gas means petrol.
• Thongs mean flip flops.
• Chips (commonly called hot chips ) mean fries.
• Fortnightly means every two weeks.
• Boot means trunk.
• Bum bag means fanny pack.
• Lollies means candies/sweets.

Tipping Culture in Australia

In a country where the minimum wage is a lot higher compared to other countries, tipping isn’t that much of a necessity — most especially where service charges are included in the bill (typically for group or specialty bookings rather than a meal for 2). No one’s stopping you, though! You can still give tips if you want to and you feel like it.

Pre-book popular attractions in Australia

5 Quick Australian Dos and Don’ts

• Slip, Slap, Slop, Seek, Slide (That’s slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen, slap on a hat, seek shade and slide on your sunglasses – if you’ve never heard the iconic Cancer Council slogan before. Fun fact – it was so successful in the 80s that there is a generation of Aussies with a Vitamin D deficiency!)
• Carry photo-ID
• Swim between the flags on Aussie beaches
• Watch out for drop bears …

Don’t:

• Drink & Drive
• Climb Uluru (thankfully the are now rules to prevent people climbing the sacred rock, but it’s good to remind everyone that it shouldn’t be done, should that ever change)
• Eat, Drink or Smoke on public transport
• Turn up to a BBQ empty-handed (bring a bottle of wine or beer that the host will enjoy)
• Get offended when Aussies swear, it’s part of our national identity.

That’s a wrap, I hope our helpful tips for Australia (perfect for firsttime visitors) has got you all excited to explore Oz and this Australia travel guide has given you all you need to know to make it happen. We hope you have a wonderful time in Australia.

And if you know someone who could use these Australia travel tips for planning their trip to Australia, be sure to share this article with them on Facebook, Twitter, Flipboard or Pinterest. Sharing is caring and we thank you in advance.

READY MORE AUSTRALIA TRAVEL INSPIRATION? YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN THESE TRAVEL TIPS, TRAVEL ARTICLES, DESTINATION GUIDES, TRAVELER RESOURCES AND RELATED POSTS ABOUT OTHER AMAZING PLACES IN AUSTRALIA:

• Test Your Aussie Knowledge: The Big Australia Trivia Quiz + 80+ Interesting Facts about Australia
• South Australia: Adelaide Travel Guide (Perfect for First Time Visitors)
• Australian Capital Territory: Top Things to do in the ACT
• Queensland: QLD Bucket List (inc. the some of the best spots on the East Coast Australia – think Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Airlie Beach, Fraser Island and the Great Barrier Reef) + 50 Things to do in Outback Queensland
• New South Wales: Top Things to do in Sydney (inc. The Sydney Opera House, Byron Bay & the Blue Mountains ) & Best Places to visit in NSW + Incredible Ski Resorts in NSW
• Victoria: Free Things to do in Melbourne , Melbourne Travel Guide (Perfect for First Timers), Best Time To Visit Melbourne (Month by Month Guide) + Best Day Trips from Melbourne (inc. the Great Ocean Road)
• General Australia Inspiration: 25 Best Places to Visit in Australia (inc. Alice Springs in the NT!) + Best Australian Travel Apps + Australia Travel Tips to Know Before You Go
• Beyond Oz: Looking for content outside of Oz? Head on over to MakeTimeToSeeTheWorld travels blog – they’ve got content on everywhere from Sri Lanka to South Africa , North America to South America & the Middle East to Europe .

Hi There! Thanks for reading our guide to 25+ Essential Travel Tips for Australia (What to Know Before You Go)   I just wanted to let you know that this post contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something after clicking a link, I may get a small commission – which is at absolutely no cost to you . If you enjoyed this article and are going to be searching for some of the things I mention anyway, I would love it if you could click through from the links above & thank you in advance! Read my full disclosure here .

1 thought on “25+ ESSENTIAL Travel Tips for Australia (Know Before You Go!)”

What a great collection of tips from travelers. I went through the list and nodded. Although I am still searching for all the right solid toiletries that work for me. And no matter how I try, I can’t travel with just a carry-on!

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50 Of The Best Places To Visit In Australia In 2024

By Jessica Best 3rd Apr 2024

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From breathtaking islands and sugar white sand beaches to sun-baked landscapes and jaw-dropping natural wonders, here at Urban List, we think Australia is a land of unique and diverse beauty. 

If you're wondering where to travel in Australia in 2024, we've got hidden gems and bucket-list worthy locations you didn't even know existed. To get your travel itinerary started, we've chosen 61 incredible travel destinations you need to tick off. It’s time to get exploring. 

The Best Places To Visit In Queensland 

Moreton island.

Queensland is home to a slew of islands but Moreton is one of our absolute faves. The island is almost entirely declared National Park territory, which means it is largely untouched featuring pristine blue waters, lush rainforest, historical lighthouses and famed natural wonders such as Mount Tempest, the world's largest coastal sand dune structure.

K'gari /Fraser Island

As the world’s largest sand island, it’s not hard to understand why this Queensland beauty has made this list. The UNESCO World Heritage site stretches over 123 kilometres and is a stunning tangle of rainforests, eucalypt woodlands and mangroves, surrounded by long, flat beach highways so yes, four-wheel-driving is a must. 

Cape Tribulation

If you ever wanted to see what Queesnland looked like when dinosaurs roamed the earth, then make tracks to beautiful Cape Tribulation where the Daintree—one of the world’s oldest rainforests—meets the Great Barrier Reef. Want to make a road trip out of it? Work your way from the top of Cape Tribulation and all the way down to Townsville—it's here you'll find the stunning Magnetic Island.

Rainbow Beach

This little beach town on the Cooloola Coast, is the gateway to Fraser Island. But there’s so much more to Rainbow Beach than its island neighbour. Head to the infamous Carlo Sandblow—if you’ve seen a photo of a giant sand dune in Queensland, this is probably it—for an involuntary cardio workout then sink a cold one or three at the Rainbow Beach Hotel.

Nestled on the Sunshine Coast between Mudjimba and Noosa, Marcoola is the quiet beach town you didn’t know still existed in Queensland. Providing the perfect blend of (mostly) tourist-free beaches with a thriving organic foodie culture and accommodation that won’t cut into your retirement fund, Marcoola is a well-guarded local secret for a very good reason. 

You might also like the:

• Best Camping In Australia
• Best Road Trips In Australia
• Best Under-The-Radar Beach Towns

This dreamy little romantic beach side strip is hard not to fall in love with. From its palm tree lined streets to its huge choice of fabulous restaurants and bars, Palm Cove is tiny but mighty and a favourite of holiday-goers located just a short drive from Cairns. Fall asleep to the gentle crashing waves and wake up to the spectacular sunrises that Far North Queensland has to offer. We can tell you now, you’ll never want to leave.

Fitzroy Island

Just a quick boat ride out of Cairns sits the small but mighty Fitzroy Island with its unbelievable hidden beaches and coves that island dreams are made of. With an endless range of tours and activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, nature walks, marine biology classes and bush tucker nature walks just to name a few, you’ll be able to keep everyone entertained.

The Best Places To Visit In New South Wales

Nambucca heads.

One of the most scenic areas on NSW’s North Coast, Nambucca Heads is home to a vibrant artsy community, thriving local bushlands, and 23kms of breathtaking coastline. Its name is derived from the Aboriginal word meaning ‘entrance to waters’, and it’s the ultimate spot for surfing, fishing, kayaking and swimming - as well as catching sight of passing dolphins.

About halfway between Newcastle and Port Macquarie on NSW’s Central Coast, a tiny seaside village called Seal Rocks protrudes out into the Pacific. Surrounded by the nearby Wallingat National Park and Myall Lakes National Park, Seal Rocks is known for surfing, remote beaches, and its active lighthouse on Sugarloaf Point (where you can also stay!).

Lord Howe Island

Looking like something straight out of Jurassic Park (the beautiful parts, minus the dinosaurs), Lord Howe Island is packed with jaw-dropping rugged beauty from rainforest-clad volcanic mountains to fern-laced gullies. And be sure to check out Ball’s Pyramid, a dramatic hunk of basalt that is the planet’s tallest sea stack. This is absolutely one of the best places to visit in Australia.

Brunswick Heads

If you venture a 20 minute drive outside the hustle and bustle of Byron Bay, you’ll find yourself in the uber-cool streets of Brunswick Heads, where the baby blue ocean laps up against the rocks and you can forget the rest of the world. There’s a cracking local pub, old school picture house and a thriving foodie scene.

Lennox Head

Big on Urban List’s radar this year, tranquil Lennox Head is where it's at for chilled times on the coast. Just 25 minutes by car from Byron, it’s got just the right amount of chilling versus doing. Be sure to head straight to Seven Mile Beach for the secret swimming spot of your dreams followed by a hike up to Lennox Head lookout where you’ll score views for days. 

Crescent Head

Located north of Port Macquarie, at Crescent Head it’s about the epic surf beaches. With four perfect right-hand point breaks, you can expect to ride for anywhere up to 200 metres, revered by longboarders around the world.

Just under four hours drive from Sydney, Orange features over 60 vineyards and about 40 cellar doors. Tucked into rolling vine-covered hills and pretty country lanes and set against the backdrop of an ancient, extinct volcano called Mount Canobolas, Orange is Australia’s highest elevation wine region—making it perfect for chardonnay, pinot noir, riesling, pinot gris, merlot, and shiraz.

Coonabarabran

This central-west town in NSW sits near the spectacular Warrumbungle National Park, which is Australia’s first and only Dark Sky Park—an internationally-recognised place of crystal clear skies (Joshua Tree in California and Vrani Kamen in Croatia are two others). Coonabarabran sits on top of a volcanic mountain range and boasts a postcard perfect central village. 

This humble little town has recently gained the reputation of quickly becoming the new less bustling Byron Bay, and it's not hard to see why so many are falling in love with this little beachside oasis. From their incredible weekly farmers markets or their picturesque ocean rock pool looking over Main Beach, we can’t get enough of this quaint spot particularly with its central location between Brissy and Sydney meaning you can make a cheeky long weekend getaway without losing a whole day to travel. 

The Best Places To Visit In South Australia

Flinders ranges.

The Flinders Ranges are the largest mountain ranges in South Australia, starting around 200 km north of Adelaide. With towering ancient cliffs and epic other-worldly craters, this spectacular landscape is thought to be 800 million years old, and has been home to the Adnyamathanha people for tens of thousands of years.

The Breakaways

The Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park, known simply as The Breakaways, is one of the most unique settings in all of Australia. Formed by a series of orange, white and red eroded hills above a desolate plateau, The Breakaways are a drive away from the mining town of Coober Pedy, dubbed the “opal capital of the world”, and famous for underground dwellings (“dugouts”) built by locals to avoid the scorching heat. 

Eyre Peninsula

Famous for its epic water activities, the thrill-seekers among us can hop aboard a shark cage dive or swim and play with sea lions off the coast of Port Lincoln. For something a little more lowkey but just as stunning, you can watch on in awe as whales and their calves frolic under towering, wave-ravaged cliffs. Seafood lovers will not be disappointed either when they tuck into Eyre Peninsula’s legendary oysters and freshly-caught seafood at the local fishmongers.

Fleurieu Peninsula

The Fleurieu Peninsula boasts coastlines upon coastlines that make you feel like you’re winding your way through the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast. Hot tip, rent out a convertible to really max out on those wind-in-your-hair feels, just like in Positano. This peninsula is also decked out amazing regional food and wine, rugged cliffs and sheltered coves worth exploring.

Kangaroo Island

With more than a third of Kangaroo Island being a protected nature reserve, it’s not uncommon to stumble across the locals including koalas, brown bandicoots, kangaroos, sea lions or even the odd orca whale. Suitably, the island is also home to a number of low-impact, luxury eco-resorts that provide a calming reprise from regular life. This is without a doubt, one of best holiday destinations in Australia.

The Best Places To Visit In Western Australia

The Quobba Coast is located just south of the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area. Known for its fishing, walking and snorkelling, this thin strip of land stretches out for 160 kms between Lake Macleod and the Indian Ocean. There’s no shortage of wildlife here, either: expect to see roaming herds of wild goats, leatherback turtles bobbing in the ocean, and humpback whales breaching over the waves.

Out on the most westerly point of Australia, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shark Bay is known for its dugong (or “sea cow”) population, the wild dolphin hang-out of Monkey Mia, and stromatolites—living fossils that are among Earth’s oldest lifeforms, dating back 3 billion years. The remote Shell Beach is also a quiet place to relax, its white sands made from crushed cockle shells stacked nearly 10 metres thick.

Gateway to the amazing wonder that is the Ningaloo Reef, Exmouth is a tiny town on the coral coast of WA, a 15-hour drive (or 1,270km) north of Perth. A nature lover’s paradise with its coral reefs, colourful fish and whale sharks, the world-famous crystal clear waters of the Ningaloo Reef (which stretches 300km) is the reason visitors flock from all over the world to Exmouth but the whole region is drop dead gorgeous.

The Kimberley Region

Boasting some of the world’s most awe-inspiring landscapes, and fewer people per-square-kilometre than almost any other place on Earth, the Kimberley will stir your soul and awaken your senses. Expect: thundering waterfalls, spectacular gorges, pockets of rainforest and freshwater swimming holes—we promise this will be a trip you'll never forget. 

Esperance 

If you’ve ever seen pictures of roo’s sunbaking on white sand beaches, chances are they were taken at Esperance. Around a 90 minute flight from Perth, this stunner is all easy-going vibes and great beach life. With fine quartz sand meeting a placid ocean and remote national parks to the town's southeast, there’s also 105 islands just offshore, making up the Recherche Archipelago, which are inhabited by fur seals, penguins and seabirds.

Set on the Indian Ocean at the top of WA, Broome is straight up gorgeous. Think turquoise waters, uncrowded shores, palm trees and a stunning red-dirt backdrop. Hopping on a sunset camel ride across the golden sand is a must.

Rottnest Island 

If you were dreaming of a vacay to the Greek Islands, then good news, we’ve found somewhere even more picturesque and way cheaper. Just a short ferry ride from Perth, the island is home to a nature reserve, hiking tracks, secluded coves and loads of gram-worthy beaches (our fave is Little Salmon Bay). 

Augusta is the perfect spot for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors. Home to some pretty fantastic fishing and snorkelling, it’s also a great spot for windsurfing and kite surfing as well as a bit of bushwalking. Climb the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse for some pretty special views and then check out one of the Margaret River wineries for a nice long lunch.

Whenever you see a WA tourism ad, you’re bound to see the sweeping coastlines and azure waters of beautiful Coral Bay. Home to the World Heritage Listed Ningaloo Reef, you’ll be dazzled by how close you can come to some unique and breathtaking marine life like the mighty whale sharks, spot manta rays or dugongs on their seasonal migrations. This secluded paradise is the ultimate vacation for lovers of sun, sand and glorious weather.

This gorgeous sheltered little bay is magic for those wishing for a cruisy beachside break without all of the hustle and bustle, but still close enough to the Margaret River Wine Region for when you want your vino fix. Sunbathers will be dazzled by the crystal blues of the unadulterated ocean whilst diehard surfers will have their choice of some world-class breaks all at your doorstep. 

The Best Places To Visit In The Northern Territory

Bitter springs.

One of our favourite spots for swimming in the Northern Territory, Bitter Springs is also home to some great bushwalks as well as some beautiful native plants which flower each year in March or April. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Darwin and the perfect spot for a picnic or a BBQ so remember to stock up before you go.

Dhambaliya/Bremer Island 

Located off the coast of Arnhem Land, it’s home to four of the world’s seven sea turtle species, boasts a pristine coastline, walking trails and the dreamy Banubanu Beach Retreat. In between sunning yourself on the beach, be sure to check out the famous Yirrkala art centre to gain an incredible insight into First Nations culture.

Tiwi Islands

Comprising two main islands—Bathurst and Melville—one visit and you’ll understand why it’s been given the nickname, ‘Island of Smiles’.  Packed with art, culture and natural beauty, the island’s residents are what make this place so special. Pro tip: some areas do require a permit so be sure to check before you leave for your holiday.

Alice Springs/Mparntwe

Head here from 8 to 17 April to discover Parrtjima, an incredible, free light festival that celebrates First Nations art, history and culture. In between viewing amazing art installations and taking in live music, be sure to check out the stunning beauty of nearby Ormiston Gorge and Simpsons Gap.

Litchfield National Park

Whether you head in for a day from Darwin or Katherine or you camp overnight, Litchfield National Park is a stunner. Push yourself to the limit on the walking trails—the 39km Tabletop Track is a killer—or relax in a swimming hole under one of the waterfalls. And don’t miss Florence Falls and Buley Rockhole for swimming—there’s a nice easy walk between the two that will take you about 1.5 hours.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten about Uluru, we just wanted to keep you on your toes. Of course you’re going to visit the big red rock if you’re going to the Northern Territory, the question is how to tackle it. Base yourself in nearby Yulara and take in the spectacle that is sunrise at Uluru. This will also give you plenty of time to explore the park and take in all its glory. 

The Best Places To Visit In Victoria

Further along the Great Ocean Road from summer hot spot Lorne, Apollo Bay is a little bit quieter, but still sees plenty of visitors over the warmer months. Apollo Bay is a great beachside town to base yourself out of if you're looking to explore the amazing sights along the Great Ocean Road. The Twelve Apostles are just an hour away, and the Californian Redwoods in Otway National Park need to be experienced to be believed.

Can’t get the idea of sipping ouzo by the Mediterranean out of your head? Why not give Lorne a try instead? Located only a two-hour drive from Melbourne, this coastal town is Australia’s very own slice of Mediterranean vibes, helped along by a thriving arts community and beach views to die for.

Yarra Valley

While it might be a well known fave among Victorians, if you haven’t been to Yarra Valley yet pop it to the top of your list. Think: boutique hotels among the trees, some of Australia’s best wineries, highly renowned cheese shops and some truly epic drives. In short, it’s the perfect weekender.

Mallacoota 

About a six hour drive from Melbourne, Mallacoota is surrounded by natural beauty thanks to its location on the mouth of the Wallagaraugh River with the Croajingalong National Park to the south-west, and the Cape Howe Marine National Park to the east. Pro tip: The Thurra River dunes walk is a highlight.

Mount Buller

Between the spectacular sweeping scenery and luxe resort facilities, Mount Buller’s busy slopes are one for the bucket list—it’s no surprise why it’s the chosen quick escape for Melbournians every winter. Boasting two very unique mountainsides, you’ll have the choice of the blue run Northern Slopes or the challenging black trail Southern Slopes to keep that heart rate up. Once you’re ready for some rest and relaxation, you’ll also be spoilt for options with over 35 bars and food hubs perfect for that ideal cosy après-ski vibe you’re craving. 

Queenscliff

Situated on the Bellarine Peninsula, historic Queenscliff is the perfect place for a little sojourn if you're into mouth-watering seafood. Located right on the head of Port Phillip Bay, Queenscliff harbour is a great spot to grab some fish and chips and watch the boats come in. Then take a stroll around town where sandstone buildings line its streets and pine trees are dotted along the foreshore.

Johanna Beach

Located a short distance from Cape Otway, the waves found at Johanna Beach are the creme de la creme, so much so it played host to the World Surfing Championships in 1970. Best accessed via car from the Great Ocean Road, the journey will prove to be worth it with distinct bars, rip channels and waves averaging over 1.5 metres high.

The Best Places To Stay In Tasmania

Located at the northern edge of the popular Freycinet National Park, Coles Bay is one of Tasmania’s most famous natural wonders. Littered with bushwalks, eco lodges, and places to fish, kayak and swim, Coles Bay is a relaxed seaside town, sitting beneath the stunning pink-granite peaks of the Hazards range.  

Bicheno 

Nestled between Douglas-Apsley National Park and Freycinet National Park, Bicheno is a relaxed seaside town on Tasmania’s east coast. A short drive from both Hobart and Launceston, Bicheno is a favourite holiday spot for Tassie locals, with pristine waters, orange rocks and, and at dusk, the town’s resident Fairy Penguins can be spotted waddling up from the see into their burrows. 

Bruny Island

Bruny Island has some of Tasmania's most beautifully preserved natural environments with abundant wildlife and stunning cliff top views. Besides the gorgeous scenery and wildlife, Bruny is also home to local producers specialising in oysters, cheese and chocolate, so here’s permission to stuff your face while taking it all in.

Flinders Island

With only 900 residents and 120 beaches, chances are you’ll have a nice stretch of sand to yourself when you holiday at Flinders. Go beyond the green rolling hills and be wowed by the rugged pink and grey granite mountain ranges of the Strzelecki National Park—there are loads of adorable animals to spot along the way too.

Freycinet Peninsula

Located on the east coast of Tasmania, Freycinet Peninsula is home to the majestic pink granite Hazards mountain range, secluded bays, white sandy beaches, bird-filled lagoons and beautiful Wineglass Bay.

Cygnet is the centre of the Huon Valley, famed for stunning and delicious apple, cherry and berry orchards; 83% of Tasmanian apples originate in the Valley and Cygnet is a great spot to see where all the fruit growing magic happens. Also popular with the artistically inclined, Cygnet is teeming with art studios, galleries and craft shops and also boasts an award-winning winery: Hartzview Vineyard at Gardners Bay.

Need accommodation? Read on for:

• Sydney's Best Hotels
• Melbourne's Best Hotels
• Brisbane's Best Hotels

Image credit: Ben Carless | Unsplash

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29 Breathtaking Australia Bucket List Experiences 

These Australia Bucket List Experiences will help you discover the best places to visit when you travel around Australia. On our list, you will find a blend of big-city attractions, natural wonders , and spectacular wilderness escape s .

Australia is the perfect place for an adventure holiday. Whether you’re looking for something active to get the adrenalin pumping or a relaxing break, there are plenty of options. So if you are dreaming of white sandy beaches or outback adventures, we think you will find some great ideas on what to do when visiting this amazing country.

All the places included have been reviewed by travel writers who have visited the location and now share their tips so you can decide if it’s the right for your list.

• How to build your Australian bucket list

Pick a state, choose a theme, select a random collection of sights that grab you, whichever way you go; if you complete all these, you will have pulled off the Ultimate Australian Bucket List!

Places to visit in Western Australia

Places to visit in south australia, places to visit in the northern territory, bucket list experiences in tasmania, the nsw bucket list, places in queensland for your bucket list, bucket list places to see in victoria.

This page contains affiliate links. Our full disclosure policy is here .

Western Australia’s beaches are among the finest in the country, and the state is home to my personal ultimate Australia bucket list. Travel distances are extensive in Oz, and WA’s location on the opposite side of the country from Australia’s big cities means that it often misses out on the recognition it warrants. Our advice, if you can make time to visit the national parks of Western Australia , you will be pleased you did!

Meet the locals at Shark Bay, Western Australia

At the most westerly point of Australia lies the UNESCO World Heritage Area of Shark Bay. It’s an 8-hour drive north of Perth, making it a popular holiday spot for travelers driving along the coast of WA. Shark Bay is known for its abundance of wildlife and stunning landscapes unique to this part of Australia.

There are many outstanding  things to do in Shark Bay ; however, the main attraction is daily dolphin interactions. Each morning, a small group of wild dolphins swim up to the shores of the Monkey Mia Reserve to be fed a few fish by the wildlife rangers. If you’re lucky, you might even be one of the few people picked from the crowd to hand feed them some fish!

While you’re in the area, you can’t miss out on a trip to the stunning Francois Peron National Park. This is one of the best places to witness the striking contrast of bright orange sand and vibrant turquoise water. To access the park, you will need a 4WD vehicle. If you don’t have one, you can book a tour that will take you to all the best spots in the national park.

Contributed by Ann from The Road Is Life 

Witness Broome’s Staircase to the Moon

In Broome, Western Australia, the full moon rises over the tidal flats of Roebuck Bay and produces an optical illusion that looks like a staircase leading directly to the moon .

There is a reason Broome is one place in Australia most of us have on our bucket list!

When the tide recedes, shallow ridges in the tidal flats fill with shallow pools of water. The light from the full moon reflects into the water, forming this intriguing illusion. This natural phenomenon takes place during the full moon period from March to October.

Just before nightfall, artisans, musicians, and food vendors host the Staircase to the Moon Market . The vibe is lively and friendly, and you can feel a strong sense of excitement over the event that’s about to take place. It’s a worthwhile experience as there are few other places in the world where this phenomenon occurs, making it one of the unique experiences to have in Australia.

In Broome, you’ll find a gamut of adventure activities to enjoy before nightfall. Lounge the day away on Cable Beach, take a sunset camel ride on the beach, search for dinosaur footprints at Gantheaume Point, or head inland and wander through and fly over Windjana Gorge. There is a fabulous pearl farm tour and when it’s time to relax, grab a seat at Matso’s Brewery and sip on chilled ginger or mango beer. 

Chantae from Chantae Was Here

Swim Ningaloo Reef and Hike Cape Range National Park

A visit to Cape Range National Park a nd Ningaloo Reef is an absolutely incredible experience. The park is home to some of the most incredible beaches in Western Australia and some impressive limestone ranges and deep canyons. Ningaloo Reef runs right along the coast of Cape Range National Park and is home to a vast array of fascinating wildlife. You will find Cape Range and Ningaloo Reef on the west side of Exmouth in Western Australia, around 1,200 kilometres north of Perth.

While Cape Range National Park is home to many beautiful canyons and beaches, the best of these is Turquoise Bay, a stunning white sand beach surrounded by turquoise water. It even has a section of reef that you can snorkel right from the beach. The highlight of any trip here, though, is a trip further out into the reef to try to spot the friendly whale sharks. You can take a boat trip and snorkel near these gentle giants of the seas and look out for manta rays, turtles, humpback whales, reef sharks, dugongs, and so much more. 

This is such an amazing place, and because of its remote location, you won’t ever find the same crowds you will find at some of the country’s other top attractions.

Suggested by Luke from Wild about BC

Meet the Quokkas on Rottnest Island

Taking a selfie with a quokka is a must-do when visiting Western Australia. Rottnest Island is located about 20 kilometres off the coast of Perth and is famous for its resident, the quokka. 

Quokkas are a small native marsupial with the cutest smile! Whilst you can find quokkas in a few other places in the southwest of Australia, Rottnest Island is the only place you will find them in large numbers. The “quokka selfie” has gone viral globally thanks in part to pictures posted online by celebrities visiting the island like Chris Hemsworth and Roger Federer. 

These adorable marsupials are most prevalent around the settlement in Thompsons Bay but can be seen around the rest of the island, particularly in the early mornings and later afternoons. To get your own selfie, be patient and slowly approach a quokka. Make sure you crouch down low to get the best angle.

It is very important to make sure not to touch or feed the quokkas.

To get to Rottnest Island, catch a short 30-minute ferry ride from the harbourside town of Fremantle . When visiting Rottnest Island, the best way to explore the island’s 63 beautiful beaches is by bicycle or if you prefer, segway .

Contributed by Tess from Tessomewhere

Drive the Gibb River Road

The Gibb River Road , or “Australia’s Last Frontier”, is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Australia. This 660 km stretch travels from Derby to Kununurra in the Kimberley region of northern Western Australia, and it is home to epic waterfalls, dramatic gorges, and chilled outback culture.

Stops on the Gibb River Road include Windjana Gorge, where you can look out for crocodiles (don’t go swimming!), the epic caves of Tunnel Creek, the gorgeous Bell Gorge and Manning Gorge, driving across Pentecost River, and the hot Zebedee Springs. 

You will need a 4WD or at the very least, an AWD car to tackle the Gibb River Road (we did it in a Subaru Forester, but there were a few difficult moments!) and take at least one, preferably two, spare tyres (most people get at least one flat). It’s also only accessible in the dry season. 

However, with the right vehicle, the Gibb River Road is a fun and accessible adventure – it is very rugged and wild, but it is popular enough to always find help if you need it. 

It takes about 5-7 days to complete the whole road with lots of stops along the way. Don’t rush it – there is so much to see, and your car’s tyres will thank you! 

By Claire from Claire’s Footsteps

If you can spend more time in Western Australia, consider adding Margaret River and Esperance to the south and Kimberley in the north.  

This South Australia bucket list is guaranteed to impress. Honestly, this state deserves more visitors as it has so much to offer. We recently spent five weeks in the state, and we know we will be back! 

Fly over Lake Eyre and the Painted Hills

Hidden deep in the South Australian outback is a little known attraction that needs to be on every Australian wish list – the Painted Hills . This rocky outcrop, approximately 50km long, comprises beautiful different coloured hills, ranging from ochre to mustard to white.

Located in the middle of Anna Creek Station, the largest cattle station in the world, there is no land access to the Painted Hills. The only way to see them is by air – and that’s the best way to see them too.

The nearest place to take a scenic flight is the tiny settlement of William Creek. Most flights from there take visitors over Lake Eyre, but if you have made an effort to get to William Creek, definitely include the Painted Hills – opt for the flight that includes a landing too. I also recommend an early morning flight to see the hills in the soft morning light with dramatic shadows.

In 2019, WrightsAir negotiated with Anna Creek Station to have an airstrip built, allowing them to land amongst the Painted Hills. Visitors can now also enjoy half an hour of the hills up close – which are not as you imagine them from the air.

This flight over Lake Eyre and the Painted Hills is absolutely one of Australia’s best experiences!

Suggested by Josie from Exploring South Australia

Fossick For Opals, Coober Pedy, SA

For a unique Outback Australia destination, it’s difficult to look past Coober Pedy . This infamous opal town known for its underground homes and opal hunters should be on every must-visit list. And when you are there, the one thing you must do is go opal fossicking.

Around 80% of the world’s opals come from Coober Pedy. The name itself is a corruption of Aboriginal words, which translate to “white manhole in the ground”, and you’ll see a lot of holes in this part of the world. Some are mines, and some are homes.

While many people search for opals underground, this is not an easy task for a visitor to Coober Pedy. Instead, you can search for opals by fossicking. Fossicking (also known locally as noodling) is basically sifting through mullock heaps that are left when mines are built. Often, pieces of opal are in these heaps.

You don’t need any equipment to go fossicking as you can just use your hands and eyes, although a sieve and a shovel will help. You also can’t go fossicking just anywhere. In Coober Pedy, you can head to the “Jeweller’s Shop” on Jewellers Shop Road near Umoona Road. It’s lots of fun, and hopefully, you find your own unique souvenir to take home.

Contributed by Sharon from Baby Journey.  

Drive through the Central Flinders Ranges

The Flinders Ranges is a four-hour drive from the South Australian capital of Adelaide. A visit here is one of the top outback experiences you can have in Australia. Home to Wilpena Pound, one of the most beautiful destinations in Australia. This is a road trip where the journey is indeed as spectacular as the destination.

Wilpena Pound Resort is a fantastic base for your visit. The resort gives you the opportunity to learn about aboriginal art and culture on walks and tours presented by guides from the local Adnyamathanha community.

Ikara, the traditional name of Wilpena Pound, is the star of the show in the central ranges. A natural amphitheatre, it is eight times larger than Uluru and while you can hike to various spots on its edge and also into the middle, the best way to see it is from a scenic flight.

One of the highest points in the park is St Mary’s Peak. It is preferred that you do not hike to the top of St Mary’s Peak. Much like Uluru, this is a sacred site, and out of respect for the Adnyamathanha, we stuck to lower ground and joined a sunset tour with a guide to learn more about their culture.

The highlight of our visit was Bunyeroo Valley Road; this road winds its way past river beds and climbs to the exquisite Razorback Lookout. The drive can be done in a 2WD unless it’s been raining. However, if you prefer to not worry about your own vehicle, we suggest you book a 4WD tour. This area should not be missed!

From here, continue to Brachina Gorge, home of the Brachina Gorge Geological Trail, where you can see layers of rock between 500-800 million years old. You might spot an elusive Yellow Footed Rock Wallaby that lives in this valley if you are lucky. If you are looking for a special occasion trip, this 3 day eco safari with SA Eco Tours is hard to beat with a stay at Rawnsley Park Station and a drive through Brachina Gorge as part of the itinerary.

Contributed by us!

Explore the beauty of Kangaroo Island

A visit to Kangaroo Island is the perfect road trip for anyone who enjoyed holidays filled with opportunities to experience nature and wildlife without hoards of people around.

From the adventures offered on the dunes of Little Sahara to meeting the sea lions at Seal Bay Conservation Park. This is a road trip that you should not rush.

Be sure to spend half a day in the Flinders Chase National Park. This park sits on the western tip of the island. There are several highlights, including the Cape du Couedic Lighthouse. But top of the list is the Remarkable Rocks, the red rocks you see on almost every South Australia tourism guide, followed closely by Admirals Arch, a natural rock arch that feels more like a cave.

Another highlight is all the wildlife experiences available, From very affordable koala, walks to snorkelling with dolphins and seals . Our favourite tour was the Hanson Bay nocturnal wildlife experience.

Another reason for a visit to KI, as it’s known locally, is to give yourself time to sample the region’s produce. From wine and spirits to some of the freshest seafood in the country and its special Ligurian honey. 

We have shared tips for planning a Kangaroo Island holiday that covers everything you know to plan your own visit. Alternatively, follow our tried and tested five-day road trip itinerary where we have done the hard work for you. You can book to take your car on the ferry or rent one on arrival.

Stay a little longer in South Australia.

If you have more time, schedule a visit to the Eyre Peninsula to try cage diving with the sharks in Port Lincoln or tasting the world’s best oysters at Coffin Bay . You might also like to round out your time in South Australia with a little wine tasting. The Barossa Valley is internationally famous, but the Clare Valley is home to one of Australia’s pink lakes!

The Northern Territory is the outback of Australia that most of us think of when we plan a big Aussie adventure. Red dirt, ancient landscapes and remote National Parks that have remained almost untouched for millennia and, of course, Uluru !

Experience the Ghan Expedition

Travelling between Darwin and Adelaide , The 4-day, 3-night Ghan Expedition is one of the world’s most iconic train journeys. 2979km of scorched red earth, wandering camels and a lot fewer kangaroos than you might think. It gives a glimpse into the depths of Australia that’s nowhere near as comfortable traversed by car. Inside the train, cabins are simple but cosy, food is high end, and the wines are just as good – and all included in the price of your fare.

Each day brings a new destination–Katherine and the stunning Nitmiluk National Park, home to Nitmiluk Gorge, Alice Springs, the red centre, where you get a true taste of outback life, and the quirky underground world of Coober Pedy.

While you can’t explore stops independently, the inclusive excursions cater well for all interests and ages–and bucket-list experiences like flying over Uluru are bookable at an extra cost.

But you don’t need to indulge in these big-ticket items to feel special; the train and the staff manage this all on their own with little touches like surprise champagne tables set up at some iconic sights.

There’s a reason that The Ghan is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For more tips on the journey, see this article on  The Ghan FAQs .

Suggested by Helen from Differentville

Take the Kings Canyon Rim Walk

No trip to Central Australia is complete without doing the Rim Walk at Kings Canyon four hours from Alice Springs. The trail immerses you in the spectacular shapes and colours of the arid landscape millions of years in the making. It’s one of Australia’s great travel experiences.

The 6-7km hike begins with an imposing climb up 500 rock steps to the top of the canyon. With the hardest part of the walk behind you, for the next 3 to 4 hours, you can explore the areas of beautiful rock formations and palm-fringed water holes.

You can also take a flight over Kings Canyon

 A feature of the walk is The Lost City, a vast area of beehive-shaped, orange rock domes. You get to walk around and over them, as you do the lap of the canyon. Cotterill’s Lookout provides breathtaking views of 100-metre high canyon walls and Kings Creek below. Halfway way around, the Garden of Eden is a peaceful, cool oasis and the perfect spot to rest your legs.

The best time to start the walk is at sunrise. Not only will you avoid the heat of the day, but seeing the sky and rock change colour in the morning light is a magic experience.

Contributed by Natalie from Curious Campers

You can book a transfer between Kings Canyon and Uluru if you plan to visit both and don’t want to drive.

Hike the Larapinta Trail

The Larapinta Trail is in Central Australia, and it covers approximately 230km with 12 different sections. Hiking the Larapinta takes about 14 days to complete. Most people will go with a guide ; others walk the trail themselves and carry their equipment with them as they hike. 

The trail itself is predominately rocky, so proper hiking boot and equipment is required. The weather can also be extreme, steaming hot during the day and freezing cold at night, with lots and lots of flies! 

Start your journey at Alice Springs, each day’s path is different, with undulating hills, beautiful, unexpected creeks and some breathtaking views along the way. Each day the hike takes approximately 15-27kms; some are more difficult than others.

Climbing Mount Sonder, which is 1380 metres tall, is the highlight of the trip. Leave in time to catch the sunrise for the most fantastic view; it also helps that it is so much cooler during this time of the day. 

If you are choosing to walk it yourself, no booking is required. However, there are tricky bits along the way, so I would highly suggest not hiking it alone. Going with a guide gives you the bonus of learning about the history of this sacred part of central Australia. 

Contributed by Paula from Truly Expat.

Meet the Australia Wildlife of Kakadu

If there is one thing you can’t leave off your Australia bucket list, it’s an opportunity to experience some of the unique Australian wilderness. The iconic Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory is the perfect spot to experience Australia’s wild side.

This 20,000 square kilometre World Heritage wilderness protects a remarkable abundance of native  Australian animals , including the (in)famous Saltwater crocodile. You can encounter these ancient reptiles at close range on Yellow Water Billabong Cruises that depart from a jetty near Cooinda Lodge.  

The best time to take a Yellow Water cruise is in May-June before the monsoonal floodwaters subside. During this season, your cruise will include a journey through a flooded paperbark forest, sailing between the trunks of submerged trees on the way to the open waters of the billabong (Aussie slang for an oxbow lake).

Once out on the billabong, you’ll see hundreds of water birds, including the Crested Jacana, also known as Jesus bird. These handsome birds have such large feet that they appear to walk on water when they browse among the water lilies.

But it is the giant saltwater crocodiles that draw most visitors to the Yellow Billabong. They are everywhere here: in the water, on the muddy banks, underneath riverside bushes. The cruise offers a unique opportunity to get up-close and personal with the Crocs from the safety of a boat. And for a truly magical experience, there are sunrise and sunset cruises available.

Contributed by Margarita / The Wildlife Diaries

Dine under the stars at Uluru

Our sunset dinner at Uluru was something we will remember forever. Ayers Rock Resort offers three exceptional dining experiences. The Sounds of Silence buffet dinner with a star talker who explains the features of the southern sky and then lets you check it out from one of two telescopes. Tali Wiru is a four-course fine dining experience with an indigenous storyteller after dinner. The last choice is dinner in the Field of Light, Bruce Monroe’s installation of 50,000 spheres of light that light up the night. On offer is a bush tucker inspired 3-course buffet. 

We decided on the Sounds of Silence, and our evening started with champagne (or beer) at a lookout that allowed us to view but Kata Tjuta and Uluru. With just a turn, we could switch directions to alternate between the two breathtaking views. Don’t underestimate how magical an Uluru sunset is. 

As darkness fell, we made our way to our “dining room”, a group of about a dozen tables, and while dinner was lovely, what was most memorable was the night sky and the star talk.

Contributed by Us!

For our visit, we stayed at Desert Gardens and have shared our thoughts here .

Cage Dive with a Crocodile in Darwin

One of the most adventurous and unique things to do in Australia is cage diving with a saltwater crocodile. The cage dive, popularly known as the Cage of death , is an activity that one can do in Darwin , the capital city of Northern Territory.

Held at a reptile park Crocosaurus Cove , a “cage dive” sees a person placed in a cylindrical see-through cage and is dropped in a pool with a saltwater crocodile. The person is in the cage for 15 minutes, where they come face to face with a large saltwater crocodile. The first 10 minutes of the activity is under the water, where the action of the crocodile trying to catch the food thrown at it is seen, and the last 5 minutes is above the water.

It is advisable to book the activity well in advance as the slots get booked quickly. The Cage of death is an exciting and thrilling experience where one gets to face their fears and come up close to the strongest and powerful predator on land. It is surely a must-do for an adventure seekers Australian bucket list!

Contributed by Raksha from Solo Passport

Before you leave the Northern Territory,

Take some time to see Litchfield National Park and its stunning waterfalls; spend some time in Darwin , making sure you visit the Darwin Museum and Art Gallery. It’s a great place for day tours. We highly recommend you book yourself on a day tour to the Tiwi Islands.

The Apple Isle, the forgotten bottom, or just good old Tassy, no matter what you call the little island that sits off the bottom of the mainland, Tasmania punches above its weight for beautiful landscapes.  

Hike Cradle Mountain Summit in Tasmania

Reaching the  Cradle Mountain Summit  in Tasmania is an epic adventure to tick off your Australia bucket list.

The strenuous 8 hike starts at Dove Lake in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. With a route that circles the iconic lake, nothing beats the spectacular views from the summit, which sits at 1 454m tall. But it’s a tough climb that will test you both physically and mentally!

The last stretch will see you crouching on all fours, scaling massive boulders, and squeezing between small spaces. But those brave enough to take on this challenging hike will be rewarded with panoramic views of charming lakes, jagged peaks and rolling hills in the distance.

Other highlights of the walk include Hansons Peak, Twisted Lakes, Marion’s Lake and the Dove Lake Boat shed with Cradle Mountain in the back drop.

While the entire route is well marked and relatively easy to follow, they only recommended this summit climb for experienced hikers. You’ll need to start early in the morning to allow enough time to return before dark and make sure you pack snacks and water to keep you going throughout the day.

Contributed by Carryn from Torn Trackies

Explore Bruny Island

One of Tasmania’s most southern islands, Bruny Island, is a treasure trove of coastal views, abundant wildlife, and gourmet food. It is easily reached from Hobart by a short drive and a car ferry ride, which makes it a perfect day trip or a weekend getaway. There are so many  things to do on Bruny Island  that there is something for everyone.

Foodies will love Bruny Island’s oysters at Get Shucked Oyster Farm , rumoured to be the freshest in the world. They are even served with a hint of seawater still splashing in the shells. There is also the scrumptious ‘one-day old’ cheese to try at Bruny Island Cheese & Beer Co and delicious handmade chocolates at Bruny Island Chocolate Company.  

Wildlife lovers will adore Bruny’s albino wallabies and the island’s rich bird life. For the adventure seekers, there is the Bruny Island Wilderness Cruise – a chance to experience the might of the Tasman Sea, see the towering coastal cliffs and meet the playful Australian fur seals. There is a network of walking trails on the island, if you feel like a hike, and if you’d rather laze on the beach – you’ll be spoilt for choice on Bruny.  

If there is one must-see location on the island, it is the Neck – the narrow stretch of land that connects North and South Bruny Islands. The views from the top of the Neck are unmissable, and in the summer months, you can take a guided tour at dusk and watch dozens of fairy penguins emerge from the surf and waddle across the beach to their nests.

Contributed by Margarita/The Wildlife Diaries

Hike Wineglass Bay

From the first time I laid eyes on Wineglass Bay, I was determined to visit. The jewel of Freycinet National Park at Coles Bay is this bay with its gorgeous curved beach. It’s one of six fantastic hikes we think everyone should do in Tasmania.

The hike from the visitors’ centre to the Wineglass Bay Lookout 320m above sea level takes about 45 minutes each way. While it’s not a particularly long track, it is quite steep, especially until you reach the saddle between Mount Amos and Mt Mayson.

However, when you reach the top and the view is before you. You will quickly forget about the climb. If you have any energy left, it’s only a further 1000 steps down to the beach for a swim!

Some say it’s an easy walk, and others call it challenging. For someone with a good level of fitness, it’s a walk in the park, but for the average sedentary desk worker, it will get the blood pumping. I was recovering from an Achilles injury, which added a bit of a challenge. Still, there are plenty of seats for rest stops if needed.

If hiking is not your thing, but you would really like to take in the view, cruises are offered from Coles Bay. 

Tip : Don’t miss Honeymoon Bay and the Friendly Beaches while you are in Coles Bay.  

Suggested by Us!

Stay At Pumphouse Point, Lake St Clair, Tasmania

For maybe the most unique and stunning accommodation in Australia, add a stay at Pumphouse Point to your Australian bucket list.

On the glacial Lake St Clair in the middle of Tasmania, surrounded by Tasmania’s Wilderness World Heritage Area, you’ll feel you have left civilization behind. There is no sign of it from this five-star accommodation on the lake.

Pumphouse Point is adults only with meals included and exemplary service. The meals are from local produce and delicious with breakfast and dinner served at group tables, which is more fun than it might sound. Lunch is picnic-style so that you can hike around the lake, or you can take a boat or bike out, both of which are included options.

This hotel itself comprises two heritage buildings which once were a hydroelectric station. There is The Storehouse on land and The Pumphouse pictured above over the lake. The Pumphouse is where you will want to stay. The rooms are built to make the most of the views with floor to ceiling windows wherever possible. They are in a minimalist (but very comfortable) style to keep the focus on the landscapes.

For that special birthday or anniversary or just because you deserve to have a once in a lifetime experience, head to Pumphouse Point for a few days and unwind.

Contributed by Sharon from Tasmania Explorer

But wait, there is more!

Try to allow two weeks to explore Tasmania if you want to visit all of its best parts. Be sure to include Port Arthur if you are a history lover. If hiking is your thing, the Three Capes Walk is a must. If you time it right and you might even get to see the Aurora Australis, the Southern Lights.

The good thing about the items on the New South Wales list is that they are close to each other so that you can tick off a few even on a brief visit.

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge

When visiting Australia, you should definitely plan to climb to the top of the  Sydney Harbour Bridge . It is an amazing feeling to stand at the top and see the amazing views across iconic Sydney Harbour. 

You need to pre-book your ticket for the climb well in advance as it is a very popular activity. All climbs start in The Rocks, which is on the southern side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Climbing options include dawn, day, twilight and nighttime climbs. Children from 8 years old and over 1.2m tall can also do the climb.

 Climbing route options include:

• ‘The Ultimate Climb’ where you climb to the summit, then all the way to the northern end of the bridge arch before returning to the starting point. This climb takes 3.5 hours and 1621 steps.
• ‘The Summit’ is the original climbing route on the upper arch to the summit of the bridge and return, which takes 3 hours and 1332 steps. There is also the option to do the same climb with an Indigenous guide called ‘The Burrawa’ climb.
• ‘The Insider’ is where you climb up the lower arch, then climb to the summit before returning on the lower arch. This climb takes 2.5 hours and 1002 steps.

By Anne Sutherland-Smith from the Pretraveller blog.

Tour the Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House is easily the most iconic building in all of Australia. When visiting Sydney, exploring the  inside of the Sydney Opera House  is a must-do!

The Sydney Opera House was designed by Danish architect Jorn Utzon over 60 years ago. It is a work of art, both inside and out. The exterior resembles the sails of sailboats, while the inside is filled with soaring cathedral ceilings and state-of-the-art technology to bring you jaw-dropping performances. While the best way to experience the Sydney Opera House is to attend a show, it is not the only way to get inside the opera house. Another fantastic option is to take a Sydney Opera House Tour.

These tours will regale you with the exciting history of the Sydney Opera House, which is home to 1,000 rooms! Tours run Thursday to Monday at 10:30 AM, 12 PM and 2 PM. However, tours on Saturday take place at 9 AM, 10:30 AM and 12:30 PM. (It’s a good idea to book your tour ahead of time .)

Lindsey Puls of Have Clothes, Will Travel

See Three Sisters and Blue Mountains National Park

The Three Sisters might be the most recognised site in the Blue Mountains , but it is just one highlight of the Blue Mountains World Heritage area. This vast wilderness covers more than 11,000km² and is home to over 400 species of animals, dozens of waterfalls and hundreds of kilometres of walking trails. 

Plan to spend at least a day in the mountains, preferably two or three . Be sure to include a stop at Wentworth Falls and Pulpit Rocks Lookout. 

Even if you don’t love hiking, take the easy walk from the Three Sisters lookout to Honeymoon Bridge. This will allow you to walk into the first sister. It’s a fairly easy walk paved walk with a flight of stairs at the end.  Alternatively, the walk to Katoomba Falls, which is floodlit at night, is a fantastic option. 

If you enjoy bushwalking, the best track for a real taste of the mountains. The scenery in the Grand Canyon is an epic way to get a feel for the majesty on offer here. If you can’t bushwalk, consider visiting Scenic World when you can take the skyway across the valley or ride the railway down to the valley floor.

It’s easy to reach the mountains by train or tour from Sydney ; it’s the perfect city escape. If you would rather someone else does the planning, this sunset tour from Sydney is hard to beat.

If you are staying a couple of days, you might like to visit nearby Jenolan Caves. 

Do the Bondi Beach Coast Walk

Arguably the most famous beach in Australia, a visit to Bondi is on most Australian bucket lists. While it may not be the most beautiful or have the whitest sand, it has a stunning coastal walking path that runs along the cliff tops, past four equally interesting beaches, before finishing at Coogee Beach. 

Join Sydney’s most beautiful as they take their morning runs, the visitors sightseeing in the middle of the day and perhaps even share the path with a celebrity. 

Highlights of the walk include the beautiful ocean pool at Bronte, the Waverley Cemetary with its gorgeous old statues, the aquatic reserve at McKenzie Bay and the moving Bali Memorial at Coogee.  

When you’re done, make your way back to Bondi for a swim in the iconic Icebergs Pool and then check out the Bondi graffiti wall that lines the beach. Check out this guide to the best things to do in Bondi after your walk.

Have more time to explore NSW?

If you have more time, consider adding the Waterfall Way , a hot-air balloon ride in the Hunter Valley , visit the quirky outback town of Lightning Ridge , take a few days to chill at Byron Bay and hiking or skiing in the Snowy Mountains.

The World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef tops the list of must-see spots in Queensland , but did you know it is 2,300km and stretches from the tip of Australia to Bundaberg? Add to this over 1900 islands , including the beautiful Whitsunday Islands and Fraser Island and you, have the perfect beach lovers bucket list right there!

Sail the Whitsunday Islands

The Whitsunday Islands are in Queensland off the shore of the small town Airlie Beach . These islands are stunningly beautiful and home to incredible wildlife. Over 70 islands make up Whitsunday’s archipelago, and most are uninhabited. A few have private rental properties or resorts, but many of the Whitsundays is part of the National Park.

One of the main attractions here is the famous Whitehaven Beach which is said to have the whitest sand in the world and is arguably one of the best beaches on the east coast of Australia . It’s gorgeous and a must-visit for anyone visiting Australia.

Come to the Whitsunday Islands for camping, scuba diving, snorkelling and hiking. The islands are stunningly beautiful and known for their vibrant underwater life. You can even spot sea turtles if you’re lucky. There are lots of tour companies to choose from to see the islands. You could take a multi-day cruise or just go on a day trip to the islands . For this, you need to go to Airlie Beach, which is the gateway to the Whitsundays.

Most people will spend a few days here and gradually explore the islands. The town is fantastic for nightlife and a brilliant spot to relax by the beach and explore. For the ultimate overnight stay, consider reef sleep , where you can spend two days exploring the reef and one night sleeping on the pontoon .

Contributed by Victoria Heinz from Guide Your Travel

Hike Carnarvon Gorge National Park

There are many walking tracks throughout the gorge, ranging from a few hundred metres to nearly 20km return. The most popular hike and one that is highly recommended to see the major highlights of the gorge is the 10.8 km walk to the Art Gallery.

The Art Gallery is the furthest point of this work. For thousands of years, Carnarvon Gorge has been the home of the Bidjara and Karingbal people. The art gallery has over 2000 engravings, stencils, and paintings that reflect the area’s importance to the First Nations custodians of the land and provide a chance to discover more about Aboriginal culture. 

Other attractions along the walk to the Art Gallery include the Amphitheatre (4.3km into the hike). Climb up a set of metal steps and walk through a narrow gap in the sandstone to discover the open-air chamber of the amphitheatre. 

At 3.5km is the Moss Garden. A small waterfall surrounded by sandstone walls clad in moss and ferns is straight out of a fairytale. 

Plan to make the walk-in around 7 hours return. Take plenty of water and some snacks. Wear comfortable and supportive footwear – the paths are uneven, and expect lots of steps. There are also many creeks to cross along the way – a stick or walking pole helps with balance. 

Contributed by Tracy from Tracy’s Travels in Time

Take a 4WD tour on K’gari / Fraser Island

Many travellers visit Fraser Island by joining a 4×4 tag-along tour, where an experienced guide will lead a convoy of vehicles around the island. If you have a license, you can choose to drive one of these vehicles. Driving on Fraser’s beaches and through the forests is unforgettable and is something that every traveller to Australia’s east coast should experience.

You’ll navigate Fraser Island by driving along a 75-mile beach, which acts as a sort of ‘highway’ for the island. You’ll have the opportunity to swim in Lake McKenzie, a rainwater lake with pure silica sand; tube along Eli Creek, a peaceful river that feeds onto the beach; marvel at the famous Maheno shipwreck; spot wild dingoes and more.

It’s also possible to hire your own 4×4 and explore Fraser Island independently; this will enable you to explore the island at your own pace and will crank up the adventure!

Contributed by Lauren from the Planet Edit.

Ride the Giant Swing in Cairns

With so many natural attractions in Australia, you may not even think thrill attractions will make it onto your bucket list. But if there is one attraction to scream about, the Giant Swing in Cairns , Queensland, will leave you breathless.

This is the only multi-person swing in Australia, reaching speeds up to 120km/h in just 3.5 seconds. It can drop up to 3 people at any time from 45 metres high. It depends who you ask, but the Giant Swing may be a little tamer than the Bungy jump at the same location. Or it might be the adrenalin rush you’ve been searching for.

The Giant Swing is located at the Skypark at AJ Hackett , 15 minutes north. This Minjin Jungle Swing is situated right in the heart of the lush tropical rainforest. If you’re looking for something a bit less scary, you can also get the best view from Cairns’ highest viewing platform and lookout. Make sure you opt for the video footage. That photo the moment the cord is pulled is priceless.

Contributed by Erin from Explore with Erin

Explore more of Queensland

Other things you might want to add to your Queensland bucket list include the walks and waterfalls of the Gold Coast Hinterland , the outback towns of Winton and Longreach, and the rainforests of the Daintree and Cape Tribulation .

Best known for its iconic coastal road trip and cool capital, we need to explore much more of Victoria , but these two spots are definitely the state’s most popular.

Great Ocean Road Trip

Stretching between the Victorian towns of Torquay and Allansford and built by returned soldiers from WW1, this coastline is known as the Shipwreck Coast and is the resting place for hundreds of ships. Naturally, given the hazards of these waters, the coast has numerous lighthouses, including Australia’s oldest working lighthouse at Cape Otway. The Split Head lighthouse is open to the public and offers views over the Marine Sanctuary below.

Unique rock formations are spread along the coast, the most famous being the iconic Twelve Apostles. Try to hit these early to beat the tour buses out of Melbourne and some of the crowd; it can also be hard to get a good photo in the afternoon when the sun is above them.

Don’t underestimate the time you can spend taking in the sights along the Great Ocean Road . It may not seem like a lot to travel, but it’s easy to spend an hour each time you stop, and you will stop regularly! Allow several days at least to explore this region properly.

Holly from Globeblogging

You may know of the famous Sydney/Melbourne rivalry; we love both cities and think they both warrant a place on this list. Perhaps best known for its cafe culture, street art and fabulous dining Melbourne also hosts some of Australia’s biggest sporting events, including the Australian Open, Melbourne Cup and Australia Day cricket test. Sports lovers will find plenty to do in Melbourne.

The city is also jam-packed with free things to see and do , including some fantastic street art you can explore on a self-guided tour . Other things at the top of must-see in Melbourne list includes taking a trip to St Kilda, booking a small bar tour and

Explore more of Victoria and visit the top Victoria towns

Other spots you might like to visit while you are creating your bucket list for exploring Victoria include Phillip Island with its world-famous penguin parade, the wine regions of the Yarra and King Valley and Grampians National Park .

Got a question? Head over to our friendly Australia Travel Tips Facebook Group and ask a local.

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Best places to visit in australia and the pacific for 2023-2024.

Although costly flights and long travel times can deter some from visiting Australia and its South Pacific neighbors, bucket list destinations like the Great Barrier Reef and the famed Sydney Opera House simply can't be ignored. Should you decide to travel to the region, it's useful to know the best locales to explore – that's where we come in. U.S. News ranked the best places to visit in Australia and the Pacific based on user votes, expert opinions and factors like tourist-friendly accommodations and variety of attractions. Help us determine next year's ranking by voting for your favorite destinations below.

South Island, New Zealand

Great barrier reef, whitsunday islands, sunshine coast, kangaroo island, uluru-kata tjuta national park.

Travelers searching for a once-in-a-lifetime vacation should head to this dreamy French Polynesian island for its romantic overwater bungalows (a favorite among honeymooners and Instagrammers alike), luxe spas and stunning white sand beaches. Here, you can spend your vacation exploring animal-filled coral reefs, an aquamarine lagoon, lush jungles and towering mountains. Some tour operators even offer excursions that include shark and stingray encounters. To save money on your trip to the "Pearl of the Pacific," book a vacation package that combines your flight and hotel room.

New Zealand's largest island is a haven for outdoorsy types. Whether you're hiking around turquoise Lake Tekapo, bird-watching on the Otago Peninsula, stargazing from the University of Canterbury Mount John Observatory, cruising Milford Sound or kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park, you'll enjoy countless impressive panoramas in this world-famous landscape . When you need a break from nature, check out Christchurch's eclectic street art or Dunedin's 19th-century Larnach Castle & Gardens, or head to the wine region of Marlborough for its unmatched sauvignon blanc. Plus, because of the country's low crime rate, New Zealand is a top destination for solo female travelers .

Visitors travel from around the world to catch a glimpse of Tahiti's beautiful natural scenery, which features everything from tumbling waterfalls to soaring mountains. This French Polynesian island in the South Pacific is also home to unique stretches of sand, such as La Plage de Maui (with proximity to a shallow lagoon ideal for swimming and snorkeling), Papenoo Beach (a black sand beach that attracts surfers in droves) and Taharuu Beach (another black sand option that's popular with families). Away from the beach, travelers can stroll through the capital city of Papeete, explore Tahiti's sister island, Moorea, or unwind at one of the island's extravagant resorts.  

The Great Barrier Reef is easily one of the world's top natural wonders. Its sheer size – the reef stretches across more than 1,400 miles off the eastern coast of Australia – and diversity of life continuously impress visitors. Even though you won't be able to see the entire reef, a helicopter or glass bottom boat tour, or snorkeling or diving excursion of this underwater marvel makes for an unforgettable vacation. For easy access to the reef and Daintree Rainforest, the world's oldest tropical rainforest, base yourself in Cairns or Port Douglas.

Made up of a collection of roughly 300 South Pacific islands, Fiji is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world . For turquoise waters and sparkling white sands, base your stay on the Yasawa or Mamanuca Islands. If you want something more adventurous, spend the day hiking dormant volcanoes, snorkeling around coral reefs or hitting the links at one of Fiji's incomparable golf courses. Just don't forget to save time for learning about Fiji's "bula" spirit and native customs, from firewalking ceremonies on Beqa Island to drinking kava (a plant-based adult beverage).

Located in New South Wales near the foothills of the majestic Blue Mountains, Sydney is part fast-paced metropolis and part laid-back beach town. Here, travelers can spend their days sunbathing at Coogee or Bondi Beach, visiting the museums of Darling Harbour or climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge. What's more, Sydney features cool neighborhoods like The Rocks and fun events, such as Vivid Sydney (a neon light and music show) and the Biennale of Sydney (a multidiscipline arts event held every other year). Plan ahead to catch a performance at the world-class Sydney Opera House, one of the world's most famous landmarks .

This island south of mainland Australia draws thrill-seekers in droves. Hikers can trek challenging paths at Wellington Park and Cradle Mountain - Lake St Clair National Park. Water lovers can snorkel, kayak and swim at Freycinet National Park. Tasmania is also home to unique critters, such as platypuses, wombats and Tasmanian devils, which vacationers can see during wilderness hikes or visits to animal havens like the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. After a busy day outdoors, unwind with a locally made cider, wine or whiskey in Hobart or Launceston.

Within view of Australia's northeastern coast, the Whitsunday Islands' 74 islands are a great place to go to enjoy water sports like sailing, snorkeling and Jet Skiing. Hamilton Island (the largest inhabited island of Queensland's Whitsundays) is one of the island chain's most popular vacation spots thanks to its plethora of eateries, upscale accommodations and sprawling white sand beaches with crystal-clear water, such as world-renowned Whitehaven Beach. If you'd rather stay active during your visit, check out Long Island, which features about 10 miles of hiking trails.

Queensland's Sunshine Coast, which stretches roughly between Caloundra and Great Sandy National Park, appeals to everyone from foodies to animal lovers to beach bums. In the heart of the region sits Noosa, a popular beach destination known for its year-round festivals, its Steve Irwin-affiliated zoo and its migrating humpback whales, which you can swim with from July to October. Meanwhile, Coolum Beach offers stunning views of Mount Coolum and excellent surfing conditions. What's more, the Sunshine Coast is home to three UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserves that sit side-by-side, forming Australia's famed biosphere corridor.

As you might expect, South Australia's Kangaroo Island – located off the southern coast of the country – is excellent for wildlife viewing. In addition to being a refuge for its namesake critters, Kangaroo Island is home to echidnas (spiny anteaters), koalas and wallabies. Plus, you'll likely spot aquatic animals like sea lions, whales and little penguins swimming offshore. While you could easily spend the bulk of your visit looking for wild creatures, be sure to save time for a hike through Flinders Chase National Park and a tasting at one of the island's wineries or distilleries.

Melbourne is Australia's events capital, hosting annual activities like the Australian Open and the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival. Even if you can't visit for a major event, the city offers a variety of can't-miss attractions, including highly regarded museums and art galleries, Australia's oldest zoo and public libraries filled with rare books and historical artifacts. For a more leisurely vacation, ride on the free City Circle Tram or sip a flat white at one of Melbourne's many coffee shops. When you're ready to venture outside the city, consider a drive along the scenic Great Ocean Road, which begins in Torquay (60 miles southwest).

If you want your next vacation to be filled with outdoor activities, plan a getaway to majestic Vanuatu. Composed of 83 islands, this South Pacific archipelago offers ample opportunities to soak up its stunning scenery. Soar through Vanuatu's lush jungle on a zip line, watch lava erupt from Mount Yasur (an active volcano), dive to remnants of World War II-era ships or hike through the Millennium Cave to misty waterfalls. When you need a break from heart-pumping adventures, lounge on the powdery white sand at Champagne Beach or Eton Beach or take a refreshing dip in one of the many blue holes.

Australia's Gold Coast, which sits about 50 miles southeast of Brisbane in the state of Queensland, offers travelers the perfect blend of a laid-back beach community and a thriving city. Visitors can explore everything from glowworm caves to wildlife sanctuaries to theme parks – all are located within the city's limits. But the main reason to check out this coastal locale is to ride its top-notch waves. Surfers travel from around the world to hang 10 at beaches like Surfers Paradise and Burleigh Heads. While you're here, consider taking a daytrip to nearby Byron Bay, a popular destination featuring top-notch restaurants, yoga retreats and craft breweries.

Head to New Zealand's capital city to get an eyeful of the country's spectacular scenery both on canvas and in person. Wellington is one of New Zealand's largest cities (by population) and it's where you'll find the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa (an institution that displays an impressive collection of Kiwi art and Maori artifacts), plus nature-focused attractions like the Wellington Botanic Garden and ZEALANDIA ecosanctuary. After admiring the flora and fauna in these urban havens, hike to the top of Mount Victoria for a bird's-eye view of the city and harbor.

The cosmopolitan city of Auckland boasts a diverse population that brings unique flavors and traditions to the local culture. Add Auckland's love for sports (think: rugby and bungee jumping) and natural wonders – black sand beaches, lush rainforests and volcanic peaks – and you've got a must-visit travel destination. Save time for a visit to Rangitoto Island: Hikes on this offshore island include treks through lava fields and the world's largest pohutukawa forest. Meanwhile, no visit would be complete without taking in panoramic views of the city from Auckland's iconic Sky Tower, one of the tallest free-standing structures in the Southern Hemisphere.

Adelaide beckons to nature lovers, culture hounds and foodies. Considered the wine capital of Australia, this city boasts hundreds of wineries, including world-famous vineyards like Penfolds Magill Estate and Jacob's Creek. First-time visitors won't want to miss Barossa Valley, an Australian wine region known for its bold shiraz. Plus, gourmands can sample local meats, cheeses, baked goods and more at the Adelaide Central Market before perusing the exhibits at highly regarded museums like the Art Gallery of South Australia and the South Australian Museum. Before leaving, venture to Waterfall Gully to admire its gushing waterfalls and spectacular city views.

When you think of Australia's Outback, chances are you imagine this UNESCO World Heritage-listed national park. At the center of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park lies Uluru (a massive sandstone formation with a red hue) and Kata Tjuta (a group of 36 red geological domes), two sites with cultural ties to the local Indigenous Australian community, called Anangu. Though both locales are breathtaking no matter when you visit, for phenomenal photo-ops, visit at sunrise or sunset.

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K'gari (Fraser Island)

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Ultimate Australia Bucket List: 50+ BEST Places to Visit in Australia

Planning a trip to Australia and not sure where to start? I’ve got you covered with this epic guide containing 50+ of the best things to do and places to visit which are perfect for any Australian Travel Bucket List .  Some of these are places I have visited and things I have experienced myself and the rest are places, experiences and adventures that I have researched and added to my personal Australia bucket list.

Australia Travel Bucket List Ideas

Australian Capital Territory Bucket List

• Visit Canberra, the capital city of Australia. It is only a 3 hour drive from Sydney.

New South Wales Bucket List

• See the iconic Sydney Opera House. It is incredible from the outside but I recommend a tour of the inside or experiencing an opera performance Read :  2 Days in Sydney: The Perfect Itinerary .

• Climb to the top of the Sydney bridge .  This is a really popular activity so it is best to reserve in advance.
• Take a short ferry (approximately 30 minutes) from Circular Quay to Manly Beach for great views of the Sydney Harbour, Opera House and Bridge from the water.
• Spend a few hours at Bondi Beach , the most famous beach in Australia.
• Do the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk , one of the most beautiful and scenic walks in Sydney.
• Explore the spectacular Blue Mountains. You can easily visit on a day tour from Sydney .

• Relax in Byron Bay, Australia’s famous surf and arts town. Learn how to surf or go kayaking with dolphins .
• Visit Yamba, a small coastal town with beautiful beaches, which was voted #1 in Australian Traveller’s Best Towns in Australia list .
• Enjoy the laidback, hippy vibe of the alternative town of Nimbin .

Northern Territory Bucket List

• See Ayers Rock (Uluru) at sunset. Visitors are no longer be allowed to climb Uluru but you can walk around the base or do a helicopter tour .

• Visit Kings Canyon . You can follow the rim of the canyon along the 3-hour circuit walk and descend into the green oasis of the ‘Garden of Eden’. You can visit on a day tour from Ayers Rock Resort .

• Hike around the soaring rock domes of Kata Tjuta / The Olgas at sunset and watch them glow and change color with the surrounding desert landscape.
• See the Valley of the Winds, a 3 hour walk. Click here to book a tour.
• Visit Alice Springs (also known as “the Alice” or “Alice”). You can also enjoy the views of the outback on a balloon ride .
• Visit the West MacDonnell Ranges. Book a day tour from Alice Springs .
• Visit the historic town of Hermannsburg and its Aboriginal art collection.
• Visit Finke Gorge National Park and enjoy the beautiful rock formations of Palm Valley.
• Visit Darwin, the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory.
• Explore Litchfield National Park.  You can visit on a day tour from Darwin .
• Explore the natural wilderness of the Katherine Gorge on a 14-hour scenic tour from Darwin .
• Explore Kakadu National Park .

Queensland Bucket List

• Go scuba diving or snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef.

• Explore Daintree National Park, the planet’s oldest surviving rainforest.
• Take the Kuranda Scenic Railway through the rainforest to Kuranda.
• Fly over the rainforest in Skyrail Rainforest Cableway . Pick up your combo pass for the Skyrail and Scenic railway here. 
• Get close to koalas at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane, the world’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary.
• Visit Moreton Bay Marine Park, where bottlenose dolphins play and dugongs feed on sea grasses among the giant loggerhead turtles.
• Watch the spectacular sunrise on the beach with kangaroos and wallabies at Cape Hillsborough.
• Visit Yeppoon a beachside destination which offers fun activities such as sailing and kayaking, the mysterious Capricorn Caves and the beautiful Great Keppel Island white sand and exceptional snorkelling.
• Go sandboarding at Tangalooma, Moreton Island.
• Visit Fraser Island known for its 75-mile long beach which is one of the longest in the world.
• Explore Whitehaven Beach in The Whitsundays, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world with blue green waters and white sand.

South Australia Bucket List

• Visit Adelaide, the capital city of South Australia, and the fifth-most populous city of Australia.  Read: 2 Days in Adelaide Itinerary & Travel Guide (According to a Local)
• Go wine tasting at the Barossa Valley Wine region.
• See wildlife, including koalas, wallabies and kangaroos, on Kangaroo Island.
• Explore the beautiful Eyre Peninsula. You can even swim with sea lions .
• Visit Coober Pedy , a small town that is mostly underground.

Tasmania Bucket List

• Enjoy the amazing views from the Wineglass Bay lookout at Freycinet National Park .
• Take a cruise on Wineglass Bay.
• Explore Hobart, the capital of Tasmania.
• Climb to the summit of Mount Wellington for panoramic views over Hobart.
• Explore the beauty of Mt. Field National Park .  Don’t miss the famous Russell Falls .
• Visit Tasmanian Devils and hand feed kangaroos at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary . You can visit on a half-day tour from Hobart .
• Explore Bruny Island.
• Enjoy Cataract Gorge Reserve just a few minutes from the center of Launceston.
• Enjoy the stunning views at the Bay of Fires .
• Explore Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park on a scenic walk. If time is short, you can visit on a day trip from Launceston . Read more about Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park here .
• See the Southern Lights. Join the Aurora Australis Tasmania Facebook group for real time sightings and alerts.

Victoria Bucket List

• Visit Melbourne.
• Take a photo in front of the colorful Brighton Bathing Boxes near Melbourne.
• Drive the Great Ocean Road (one of the best road trips of the world). If you prefer not to drive, you can book a day tour from Melbourne .

• Drive the Silo Art Trail , to see large-scale murals painted on the silos by world-renown artists in rural Victoria.
• Explore Grampians National Park . You visit on a day tour from Melbourne .
• Go wine tasting at Yarra Valley.  You can book a day tour from Melbourne .
• Enjoy panoramic views from Wilsons Promontory.  You can book a day tour from Melbourne .
• See the famous Phillip Island Penguin Parade, where you can watch a large colony of penguins waddle from the sea to their burrows at sunset. It gets busy so it is best to purchase tickets in advance .
• Visit Raymond Island, a small island off the coast from Paynesville, and one of the best places to see koalas in the wild.

Western Australia Bucket List

• Visit Perth, the capital of Western Australia.
• Explore Rottnest Island. You can book a day tour from Perth .
• Meet the endangered Australian sea lions of Jurien Bay Marine Park, a 2.5-hour drive from Perth. Click here to book a boat trip and snorkeling excursion.
• Enjoy the sunset and the starry sky in the Pinnacles Desert. You can book a Sunset & star-gazing tour .

• Meet the koalas and kangaroos of Yanchep National Park.
• Surf down the Lancelin Sand Dunes.
• Explore  Ningaloo Coral Reef .
• Visit Wave Rock, one of Western Australia’s most popular natural landmarks which resembles a giant ocean wave.
• Explore Karijini National Park, full of gorges, waterfalls and natural swimming holes.

• Visit Cable Beach, a white sand beach near Broome. You can do a camel tour on the beach .
• Explore The Kimberley one of the oldest and largest wilderness landscapes in the world and one of the most remote regions in Australia to see wildlife, majestic canyons, freshwater swimming holes and several outback stations.
• Explore  Cape Le Grand National Park – the highlight is Lucky Bay famous for its beautiful white sand beach and friendly kangaroos.
• See stingrays in Hamelin Bay, a beautiful white sandy beach with sparkling crystal clear waters.

So there you have it – the ultimate Australia bucket list .  If there is an experience or place you think I should include please let me know in the comments below!

Need more travel inspiration? Check out some of my other travel bucket lists below:

• World Travel Bucket List: 100 Things to Do Before You Die
• Southeast Asia Bucket List: 100+ Things to Do
• USA Travel Bucket List: 125+ Best Places to Visit in USA
• Europe Bucket List: 100+ Things to Do
• Africa Bucket List: 50 Things to Do and Places to Visit
• South America Bucket List: 50+ Things to Do and Places to Visit
• 10 Hotels That Should Be on Your Bucket List!

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You’ve given me some serious Australia travel fever here! I’ve yet to visit so this post is great for me. Ayers Rock and the kangaroo park look fantastic!

Australia is definitely on my bucketlist, I didn’t know that there are that many great places to visit! Thanks for all the tips, now I have to go there even more

I’m an Aussie and this is a pretty good list of things to do in Australia. Some of these I haven’t done myself, such as visiting Uluru and Rottnest Island. I should spend more time in ‘my own backyard’!

I think New South Wales Bucket List is the winner for me. I have always wanted to see the famous Sydney Opera House with my own eyes, and as a huge Avatar fan, I just fell in love with the Blue Mountains. 🙂 I have to travel there someday, for sure. Thanks so much for the inspiration!

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Action-packed Australia travel itineraries for every length of trip

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During our family’s gap year trip around the world , we spent a generous seven weeks touring around Australia, hitting five different states including countless cities, towns, villages and national parks. For most of the world, Australia is not close or inexpensive to get to – we figured we might as well explore as much as possible once we got there! If your family is considering a trip Down Under, check out our best itineraries for Australia, the top things to do in Australia with kids and our tips for visiting Australia on a budget (as much as possible – the country is expensive compared to many others, no matter how you slice it).

A note about car seats in Australia

Be advised that Australia has very specific laws on car seat usage. While most countries allow visitors to use their approved seats from home, in Australia it is only legal to use seats that meet the joint Australia/New Zealand standard.

We have heard that enforcement of that rule is most stringent in Victoria (Melbourne) and New South Wales (Sydney) and we spent tons of time there road tripping, so we opted to rent car seats with our car rental for that leg of our journey. You may be able to get away with using a US- or European-approved full-size car seat (NO backless boosters allowed) but if you are stopped it is a ticketable offense.

We used our portable car seats for the rest of our time in Australia without incident. Find out more in our detailed guide to travel with car seats .

Best itineraries for Australia

Every family has their own time constraints when planning a vacation – school, work and money all come into play. In general, we’d recommend allowing at least two weeks for a trip around Australia. It will probably take a few days to adjust to the very different time zone and the country is massive.

Itinerary for one week in Australia

Sydney area – 3 days

Port Douglas – 4 days

If you can really only muster one week to visit Australia, we recommend spending two or three days in Sydney (since you most likely have to fly there anyway) and then fly up to Cairns to explore  tropical North Queensland for the remaining time. This east coast Australia itinerary will show you some of the country’s highlights in a very short time. If possible, book an open jaw ticket that arrives in Sydney and departs from Cairns. If that isn’t possible, there are many affordable flights connecting the two airports.

While we liked Sydney, we found that it’s similar enough to other major cities (like our home base in Los Angeles) that it doesn’t warrant that much time. In your two days you can hit the highlights: take in a view of the Opera House from the Royal Botanical Gardens, pop into the Art Gallery of New South Wales for a brief visit to see some contemporary Aboriginal art, enjoy a ferry across the harbor, and tackle the famed coastal walk between Bondi and Bronte beaches. If you have a few extra hours, we’ve heard that Taronga Zoo is lovely and has wonderful views (though it’s very expensive to visit).

You may also need a little time to let your body adjust to the time difference, but the good news is that Sydney’s bountiful sunshine and clean coastal air should speed up the process. Check out these tips for beating jetlag with little kids.

Far North tropical Queensland, on the other hand, offers a much more unique experience! There are so many awesome things to do in Cairns and Port Douglas that you won’t find anywhere else in the world – like walking rainforest bush tracks with an Aboriginal guide or snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef . Check out our full itinerary for five days in Port Douglas .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Port Douglas, Australia

Australia itinerary: 2 weeks

Sydney area – 7 days

Port Douglas – 7 days

With two weeks to visit Australia, you can give Sydney and the surrounding area a more complete look and at a slower pace. In addition to the activities mentioned above, consider taking a day trip or two outside of the city. Kaiama is just two hours away by train, and gives you a taste of the charming seaside towns and impressive blowholes that dot the Sapphire Coast of New South Wales. While we didn’t make it to the Blue Mountains, that’s another easy day trip by train if you’re interested in seeing waterfalls and doing some hiking.  Check out these awesome spots in New South Wales !

Allow a week to explore the tropics   with our Cairns itinerary. You’ll see the rainforest, the reef and more. You can consider heading to one of the nearby islands for crocodile-free swimming and snorkeling, exploring Cape Tribulation or spending a little time in the city of Cairns at its stunning botanical garden (or the super-cool playground). If you’re looking for an Australia itinerary for 10 days, just cut two days off of Sydney and Queensland each.

Australia itinerary: 3 weeks

Melbourne area – 5 days

Sapphire Coast drive – 6 days

Sydney area – 5 days

Port Douglas – 5 days

If you can allow three weeks for your time in Australia, things start to get really interesting! Instead of zooming around taking in high-impact tourist sites every day, you’ll have time to slow down and travel through one of our favorite parts of Australia, the Sapphire Coast !

Rather than starting in Sydney, book your tickets to fly into Melbourne . Spend a few days exploring the city and nearby areas – some of our top things to do in Melbourne include family-favorite ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image), eating at Lakhsa King, a daytrip to the nearby Mornington Peninsula for a winery lunch and tasting at Foxey’s Hangout and a one-night trip along the Great Ocean Road to see the Twelve Apostles. Consider taking a trip out to Phillip Island to see the nightly penguin parade !  If you’re visiting with kids, check out these family-friendly Melbourne activities suggested by a local.

While we opted to rent a car in Australia to go explore outside of the cities and found it very easy, if you aren’t comfortable driving overseas you can always research one of these Great Ocean Road tours from Melbourne and spend the rest of your time in the city.

With a rental car at your disposal, drive the whole way up from Melbourne to Sydney instead of flying! There are so many picture-perfect coastal towns, peaceful natural parks and secluded beaches that it’s impossible to see everything. You’ll have amazing opportunities to see Australia’s most famous residents in their natural habitat. We spent four nights on the drive, and would have spent more if we’d known just how amazing the region is. Check out our complete guide to the drive from Melbourne to Sydney .

Be aware that the car rental companies do charge a one-way drop off fee – and if you pick up your car at the airport, even that fee will be subject to the extra airport surcharge. If you rent car seats, those will be subject to the airport surcharge. It’s extremely frustrating! Our advice ( which we sadly didn’t follow ) is to pick up the car in town when you need it rather than from the airport. Check our rentalcars.com for the best rates.

Once you get to Sydney, check back above for our two week itinerary to find out our top things to do in Sydney and a full itinerary for visiting Queensland .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Sapphire Coast drive, Australia here

Australia itinerary: 4 weeks (or more!)

Perth/ Margaret River or Red Center or Tasmania – 7 days

If you plan to spend a month or more, you can follow our three week itinerary for Australia above and then tack on a visit to Western Australia (including Perth and Margaret River), to Australia’s Red Center to see majestic Uluru (Ayer’s Rock) rising from the desert (make sure to pack these essentials if you’re heading to the outback) or even to rugged Tasmania.

We really debated which of these areas to visit, and we decided on WA and Tassie. Visiting Uluru has long been one of my dream destinations, but we were in Australia during the hottest part of summer and we were pretty sure the kids would be miserable in the inhospitable temperatures surrounded by hoards of flies ( every single person we know who has visited told us about the flies!). There are several ways to get to Uluru – you can fly to Ayers Rock Airport directly or you can fly to Alice Springs and then drive 450km. We hope to include a visit to the Red Center on our next family trip to Australia!

Western Australia, on the other hand, is extremely family friendly and easy to access! We took a non-stop flight on Jetstar from Cairns to Perth, and then enjoyed five days each in Perth and Margaret River at free HomeExchange homes. Check out our favorite things to do in Margaret River with kids , or learn about our action-packed day tour from Perth to see the famous Pinnacles of WA.

If you have more time in Western Australia (and perhaps even the inclination to rent a camper van) there are tons of places off the beaten path to explore. Check out this awesome two-week itinerary for road tripping Western Australia !

Tasmania was our first stop in Australia, and flights are blessedly cheap between the island’s two airports and Melbourne on the mainland. Beware the open-jaw here: you’d have to pay a one-way drop off fee, but the drive between the two airports is just an easy two hour trip. We decided to save the money and fly in and out of Hobart. Though we spent ten days in Tassie, in truth it would take much more to explore all of its offerings. We didn’t see the unspoiled west side at all! We split our time between Hobart, Bicheno and the Tamar Valley just north of Launceston. Our top things to do in Tasmania include:

Things to do in Hobart

-visiting Port Arthur Historic Site (make sure to head out to Eaglehawk Neck for some awesome fish ‘n chips next to the blowhole)

-an afternoon exploring Richmond (see the bridge and old gaol/jail, and eat ice cream)

-a wine tasting lunch at Cole Valley Winery (buy some bread to take with you!)

-meeting the creatures of Bonorong Wildlife Reserve

Things to do in Bicheno

– kayaking Coles Bay at sunset

-tracking tiny penguins along the beach

-eating amazing fish ‘n chips at the harbor

-taking the very affordable glass-bottom boat tour

Things to do in Tamar Valley

-wine tasting at Holm Oak

-visiting Platypus House to learn about Australia’s unique monotremes

-soaring across Cataract Gorge

Another option, especially if you already plan to drive out on the Great Ocean Road, is to pay a visit to South Australia. You can enjoy the city of Adelaide, taste wine in the Barossa Valley, explore Kangaroo Island and much more. Check out what our Aussie friends at Thrifty Family Travels recommend to do in South Australia  and Gold Coast .

Read more: Best things to do in Gold Coast with kids

Tips to budget travel Australia

We aren’t ultra-low budget travelers. But we do try to save money where possible without scrimping on the experiences that make a destination special. Australia is not a cheap place to travel. Our visit to Tasmania (which coincided with school holidays, and for which we didn’t book accommodations very far in advance) was one of our most expensive travel periods during our gap year! Here are a few hints we found for saving money while traveling in Australia

Thinking of making your trip to Australia permanent? Throw yourself an Aussie-themed going away party !

How to save on accommodation in Australia

We were really lucky to be hosted by friends and family for a good chunk of our time in Australia. Thanks guys! We also found wonderful HomeExchange homes to stay in for free during our time in Perth and Margaret River – find out more about HomeExchange here . There are also many options for HomeExchange in Melbourne and Sydney, though in the end we didn’t need to use them. We probably wouldn’t have stayed for as long without the free accommodation we scored.

For all of our other destinations, we used booking.com to find family-friendly places to stay in Australia. Now that we’re such frequent customers, we even get 10% off most bookings with our Genius discount! Check out our favorite simple tips to save more on every reservation.

How to save on food in Australia

Restaurant dining in Australia is pricey thanks to the requirement that workers be paid a living wage and the overall higher cost of food. There isn’t much way around that! We found that by arranging accommodations through HomeExchange or booking.com with a kitchen, we could prepare most of our own meals but still take advantage of Australia’s amazing local produce, meat and dairy. We also ate an unbelievable number of PB&J sandwiches, especially when we were staying on our own.

How to save on flights in Australia

We had been warned about flying Australian low-cost carrier Jet Star. In the end, they offered not only the lowest prices but also the best flight schedules for every single leg! We ended up with three flights on Jetstar and the service was basic but pleasant. We honestly have no complaints. We saved money on Jetstar by paying $49 upfront to join Club Jetstar, which offered additional discounts on tickets and add-ons. We booked the Starter fare for every flight, added seat assignments for everyone and  then added only two bags . If we had booked tickets at the Starter Plus level, we would have been paying for two extra bags even though the kids didn’t have luggage! Check our family-favorite Skyscanner for the best flight deals. If you have points with Qantas or Virgin Australia, read about these tricks for maximizing your distance-based awards.

How to save on rental cars in Australia

As I mentioned above, we always find our best rental car deals on rentalcars.com . Fortunately, travelers with the Chase Sapphire Reserve or Chase Ink for Business credit cards can reject all of the insurance offers and use the free credit card coverage in case an issue arises. Our biggest unexpected expense was that the airports impose their extra 30% airport fee even on additional charges like one-way drop off fees and car seat rentals. Boooo! Whether you choose to pick up your rental car in Sydney or in Melbourne, neither city requires a car to get around. So either skip the car entirely, or pick it up in town when you  really need it.

Start planning your trip to Australia

Be sure to read these articles to jumpstart your Australia trip planning!

• Melbourne to Sydney drive: the ultimate guide
• Your 5 day Australia adventure in Port Douglas
• Quicksilver Reef Cruises: the best way to see the Great Barrier Reef with kids
• The best way to visit Kuranda, the village in Australia’s rainforest
• Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures: a family-friendly crocodile tour in Cairns
• The Best 10 Things to do on the Gold Coast with Kids
• An Insider’s Guide to Visiting Kangaroo Island, Australia
• Top 7 awesome family experiences in Margaret River
• A spectacular way to see Coles Bay, Tasmania: kayaking with Freycinet Adventures

What to read next

7 thoughts on “action-packed australia travel itineraries for every length of trip”.

What a great guide! Australia is totally on my bucket list one day!

I’m so glad you found it useful!

Great blog post! Australia is on my travel bucket list. This was so informative! Thank you! ~Elizabeth

Thanks! You’ll get there one day ?

Some good tips here. I loved the port douglas area! Another place Id recommend is byron bay – i lived there for 2 years and theres something very special and unique about that place!

It looks so beautiful! When we eventually get back, I’d definitely like to explore the rest of coastal Queensland more ?

That sounds wonderful. This trip is now on my to-go list! And to go soon! Australia is sooo beautiful.

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Australia Travel Guide

Your ultimate australia travel guide, with tips, and things to see and things to do in australia. great for first-time and returning travelers..

G’Day Mate! Known for its teeming natural and cultural treasures, The Land Down Under has the perfect something for every type of traveler.

There are so many great things to do in Australia .

Relax on the gorgeous beaches along its extensive coastline; embark on an exciting adventure, like going on on a walkabout.

Or try Great White Shark cage diving, or head on over to the cosmopolitan cities of Sydney and/or Melbourne to enjoy shopping, fine dining, and a budding art scene.

This Australia travel guide and list of things to do will help you plan your next vacation.

The only problem with scouring through this Australia travel guide is that once you visit this massive island continent, you might not want to leave!

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• Visit Australia

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Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Australia

• Australian power voltage is 230 V 50 Hz; Power sockets I
• The local currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD) and is around 1.20 AUD to 1 USD
• Bush fires are common in Australia from late spring to summer; during this period please observe simple safety precautions. Make sure to research risks before travelling and when camping, use only designated fireplaces, while also complying with road warning signs and fire bans.
• The emergency services (police, fire, ambulance) number in Australia (equivalent to 911 in North America), is  000 (Zero-Zero-Zero)
• You can rent a mobile phone from such providers as RebelFone, Vodafone Rental, Landwide and Cellhire. 
• In general, if you do not already have a GSM phone,  it is less expensive to rent a phone for short stays.

Things to See and Do in Australia

• Take a Helicopter Ride over the Great Barrier Reef  – A flight over the reef gives you the opportunity to appreciate just how massive this system is.
• Paddle Board in the Oldest Rainforest on Earth  – What better way to spend an afternoon than a lazy float along the river?
• See the wildlife of Kangaroo Island 
• Take Flight on a Hot Air Balloon –   Step back in time and fly high in the sky as you take in sunrise over the Gold Coast. As you fly over farmland and wide open spaces you’ll spy kangaroos and finish off with a champagne breakfast at a local vineyard.
• Fly over the Flinders Ranges to view the spectacular Wilpena Pound
• Swim with some Great Whites – jump into the water with some of the most majestic creatures of the ocean world.
• Take a Dolphin Swim in Shark Country  – get up close and personal with the dolphins of Baird Bay, but don’t stray too far from the guide!
• Take the Ultimate Scuba Adventure  – explore this underwater paradise by joining one of the many dive expeditions that explore the reef system on a daily basis. From snorkeling near the safety of a pontoon on the inner reefs to extreme exposed ocean diving out at Osprey Reef, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

More Australia Travel Guides

• Kangaroo Island Wildlife Sanctuaries
• 12 Amazing Australian Wildlife Experiences
• 23 of the Most Iconic Places to Visit in Australia
• Maria Island – Escape from Civilization in Australia
• Koala Sanctuary – Cuteness in South Australia
• Things to do in Brisbane – Everything You Need to Know

Accommodation

Budget : Hostels in Australia typically go for $20 – $25 AUD per night. But hostels can go as high as $100 AUD per night for a double room.  Wake Up Sydney  is a popular hostel

You can get private rooms in other hostels for around $50 UAD

Mid Rang e – You can get budget hotels around Australia for $150 AUD. They typically have basic amenities but are clean and modern and include free WiFi.

High End  – Australia has some beautiful luxury accommodation around the country. From rainforest retreats to coastal estates. Prices can go for thousands of dollars per night, but you can get a luxury hotel for $300-$500 AUD

• Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

Food : Australia has a wide variety of eateries including fast food, but it is all pricey. The good news is you don’t have to tip in Australia. But expect to pay $20 a meal so budget at least $50 AUD for food per day in Australia.

• Kangaroo meat can be purchased from the supermarket, butcher and is available on restaurant menus as a leaner and healthier alternative to beef or lamb with a 1-2 percent fat content.
• Vegemite, try some!  This yeast spread has the same consistency as peanut butter and is an Australian food staple
• Fun Fact:  Australia’s former Prime Minister held the Guinness World Record for beer chugging.

The Best Ways to Get Around Australia

Getting to australia:.

Getting to Australia:  Australia’s major airports are Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Brisbane.

Airline fly direct from London, South East Asia and the West Coast of Canada and the United States – Vancouver and Los Angeles

Flights:   You can check for the best flights to Australia on   Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Australia is a huge country and getting around can take time. We flew between states to get from one city to another with Virgin, Air New Zealand and Quantas.

Buses : Buses are a cheap way to travel between cities. Greyhound is the main busline. But be prepared for long journeys.

Taxis:   Taxis start at $4.00 AUD depending on the city. (ranges from $3.50 – $5.00) and then charge 1.50 to $3.00 depending on the city. Check out  NUMBEO  for up to date fares.

Car Rental:   Car rentals are the best option for traveling around Australia. Campervans and Caravanning is still a very popular way to explore the continent. Prices for car rentals start at $25 per day and can go up to $100 per day for a premium car. We’ve used  VroomVroomVroom  when traveling Australia. You can also compare  prices here .

Many people purchase a van to travel around Australia and it is a great option to have the freedom to take your time and save money.

Uber:  We have used Uber in Australia and it is an excellent option.

When to go To Australia

Australia has reasonable weather all year round. It is a large country though, so you want to check out each place region by region.

Some part of Australia have tropical or Mediterranean climates, while others are desert and temporal. Northern states are typically warm year-round with two seasons: wet or dry. Southern states have cooler winters.

Australia seasons are the opposite of North America and Europe: December to February: summer. March to May: autumn; June to August: winter; and September to November: spring. We always suggest traveling during shoulder season for cheaper prices and fewer crowds.

Queensland has two seasons, wet and dry. Wet runs from Nov-April and Dry is May-Oct Queensland is split up between two climates the Tropical North and Temporal Queensland. The wet season is hot and humid and you can expect tropical thunderstorms and even hurricanes. That said, we traveled to Queensland in Feb and had mostly sunny skies with just short, intense rains each day. There are far fewer tourists during the rainy season and we found our travels to be very pleasant. See all the things to do in Brisbane The dry season is still hot but there is less humidity: 28 degrees Celcius, (84 Fahrenheit) but nights are cooler. Swimming is better at this time of year with less chance of crocodiles and jellyfish. Crowds are much worse and rates are higher. So it is a trade-off.

South Australia

This is the driest state in the country and it is very large. The hottest and driest months are during the summer in Jan-Feb Late Feb-March is the best time to visit the Capital City of Adelaide Adelaide has wet winters. Summer and high season here is Dec – Feb with an average temperature of 28 degrees Celcius, (84 Fahrenheit) Spring and Autumn are best for shoulder season March-May and Sept – November, temperatures are pleasant and there are fewer crowds March-May is another great shoulder season travel time with temperatures dropping in 15 degrees Celcius (60 Fahrenheit) South Australia has a large portion of the outback in its borders and travel in shoulder season is much more pleasant than the hot summers

New South Wales, Sydney

Sydney typically sees 340 sunny days a year, so you can’t go wrong anytime. Summer and high season here is Dec – Feb with an average temperature of 28 degrees Celcius, (84 Fahrenheit) Spring and Autumn are best for shoulder season March-May and Sept – November, temperatures are pleasant and there are fewer crowds March-May is another great shoulder season travel time with temperatures dropping in 15 degrees Celcius (60 Fahrenheit) South Australia has a large portion of the outback in its borders and travel in shoulder season is much more pleasant than the hot summers

Melbourne  possibly has the most changeable weather in Australia. March-May  is the best time to visit with a lot of festivals going on. It’s shoulder season right after summer. Sept – Nov  is second best. Temperatures are more moderate at these times of the year. Dec-Feb  is summer and is peak season in Victoria. Temperatures are hot and the crowds are dense. Imagine having to jockey for a position to see the twelve apostles. That said, we visited Victoria in January and by doing the  Great Ocean Walk,  we avoided all crowds as we hiked the coast for four days. Go during shoulder season  and you’ll be happier. June – August –  unlike other cities in Australia – Melbourne is cold and dreary during the winter months.

Ayers Rock is a popular stop on the tourist trail. It’s at the top end of Australia and season are a bit different here. Ayers Rock Wet season : October to April Dry Season : May to September Winter  can fall below freezing at night and summer can go above 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Where to Stay in Australia

• Gold Coast –  Peppers Beach Club
• Sydney –  Grace Hotel
• Melbourne –  Travelodge South Bank
• Daintree Rainforest – Silky Oaks Lodge
• Brisbane –  Spicer’s Balfour
• Brisbane –  Regatta Boutique Hotel

Australia Accommodation Guides

• Where To Stay In Melbourne – A Guide To The Best Neighborhoods
• 18 Great Things to do in Queensland, Australia

What to Pack for Australia

Due to the sheer size of the continent, the weather in Australia varies significantly depending on where you want to travel.

Northern states experience warm weather year-round while the southern states experience cooler winters.

Australia is also one of the driest continents on the earth with an average annual rainfall of fewer than 600 millimeters.

Remember that Australia’s seasons are opposite to those in the northern hemisphere! 

• Pack  sunscreen  –  Australian sun is very strong. Always wear a shirt, hat, sunglasses, and SPF 30+ sunscreen lotion, even on cloudy days. 
• Layers – When traveling to different climates remember that layering is the key to effortlessly transitioning from cold to hot climates or vice versa.
• Bug spray –  mosquitoes and sand gnats are a nuisance that can be prevented with bug spray and a handy mosquito net. If you visit the Outback, the latter is a must-have. Ticks are also common in the wilderness and, should you be bitten, a pair of tweezers will enable you to remove the pest from your skin. 
• First Aid Kit – You may be traveling to remote areas, so have a good stocked first aid kit
• Hiking Gear –  for travelers heading up to the Northern Territory, consider packing hiking shoes/trainers, a hat and a water bottle. Also, pack clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty (due to the red dirt of the desert) and avoid packing light colors.
• See our packing tips for travel for all  travel gear, camera gear  and  clothing  we pack for travel.

See our packing tips:  packing tips.

• Sun is the biggest factor for safety. Drink plenty of fluids, wear sunscreen or sun hats and stay covered up.
• Beaches have a lot of rips and currents so always swim between the flags so lifeguards can see you.
• Swimming on the beaches of Tropical Queensland can have a risk of Crocodiles Talk to locals and follow the signs.
• Avoid swimming at mouths of rivers where crocodiles like to hang out.
• Deadly stingers are a real threat at certain times of the year (Nov-April)
• When bushwalking – wear long pants and high hiking boots to avoid snake bites
• When driving through the outback make sure your vehicle is in good shape and have extra food and water.

Australia Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Australia Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Australia  click here.

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Can't-miss Places to Visit in Australia, According to Australians

When you want the real scoop on the best places to go in Australia — and what to do while there — turn to the locals.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Australians will take any excuse to pack up and go. Whether it's a school break, the festive season, or a long weekend, we love every opportunity to hit the road.

When this happens, you'll find cities emptied and highways filled as locals migrate like geese to some hallowed turf they return to each year (think sun-kissed weatherboard beach houses brimming with memories of childhood summers or a favorite retreat in the country).

For many Australians, vacations are a chance to reconnect with the great outdoors , and thankfully, the Lucky Country has a rich variety of landscapes to explore year round, from colorful reefs to ochre deserts to powdered mountains. Throw in a healthy appetite and your favorite road trip playlist, and you're set to experience Australia like a local.

Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk, New South Wales

Vicki Smith/Getty Images

Australia is known for its gorgeous coastline, and no trip to Sydney is complete without a visit to the nearby shores. Start at Australia’s iconic Bondi Beach and stroll south toward Bronte, stopping along the way at the viewpoints and public parks to take in the stunning coastal scenery. Extend your scenic walk by following the path down to Coogee Beach, passing oceanfront saltwater pools, the picturesque Waverley Cemetery, and several golden-sand beaches along the way.

The walk from Ben Buckler Point past Bronte Beach to Waverley Cemetery takes about 90 minutes, but you could easily make this a half-day excursion if you take your time and grab a drink or bite along the way.

Bright, Victoria

Hidden in the mountainous folds of Victoria's high country, just a four-hour drive northeast of Melbourne, Bright feels like something of a revelation. Set in a pine forest valley on the banks of the Ovens River, the town is a charming perennial favorite among local vacationers.

In the summer, kids flood the water playground by the river and gold panners sit along the water's edge hoping to uncover remnants of the region's prospecting past. Thrill-seekers can hike or mountain bike on nearby Mount Feathertop and Mount Beauty, while gastronomes can either lazily pick their way through weekend markets brimming with fresh produce or pop on a helmet and pedal between cellar doors.

In the cooler months, the tree-lined avenues burst with autumnal hues and food festivals celebrate the harvest season. Snow bunnies base themselves in Bright, spending their days carving the slopes of Mount Hotham or Falls Creek and enjoying après-ski drinks at Bright Brewery or Reed & Co. Distillery.

Bruny Island, Tasmania

Seemingly huddled into the Tasmanian mainland against the elements, rugged Bruny Island punches well above its weight for its size. Blessed with fertile soils and cold, clean waters, the island has played a significant role in Tasmania's reputation as a foodie haven, with a constellation of wineries, chocolateries, and oyster farms that attracts hungry locals.

Those who prefer a taste of adventure instead should indulge in the island's network of hiking trails and lookouts, such as The Neck and South Bruny National Park. Keen-eyed visitors will spot fur seals lolling about on beaches, as well as humpback whales making their annual migrations to and from Antarctica. If you time your visit right, on a clear night in the winter, you might also see one of the island's other hidden secrets: the aurora australis — also known as the Southern Hemisphere's answer to the northern lights — shimmering on the horizon.

Katoomba, New South Wales

Located just 90 minutes west of Sydney, Katoomba is the eucalyptus-fringed heart of the Blue Mountains, a World Heritage range that draws Australians wanting to escape to the bush while eschewing tentpoles and swags in favor of luxury hotels.

Naturally, hiking and the great outdoors are the main attractions here ­— especially the Three Sisters rock formation and the Jenolan Caves, an extensive network of underground caves whose acoustics lend themselves to monthly cave concerts. Across the Blue Mountains are cultural sites important to the Gundungurra people, including songline storytelling trails and cave paintings dating back 1,600 years. The region is also a popular wellness retreat, with locals indulging in pampering at a day spa or yoga class at the Kurrara Historic Guest House .

Occasionally, the mountain range receives snow in the winter, which is all we need to throw a Christmas in July festival, complete with log fires, sing-alongs, and special, yuletide-themed menus in Katoomba's restaurants.

Esperance, Western Australia

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

At first glance, you might expect Esperance to be on a postcard from Queensland, thanks to the kangaroos skipping across pristine white-sand beaches. But here's the catch: Esperance is actually along Western Australia's southern coastline, and it's still relatively undiscovered, due to its remote location (about a day's drive or a 90-minute regional flight from the nearest city, Perth).

This means the locals have been able to enjoy Esperance all to themselves, only sharing the beaches with sunbathing kangaroos. It's the kind of place where kids grow up searching for crabs in rock pools on one of the hundreds of uninhabited islands, or spend long days in the surf before returning, salty-haired, to camp for a sunset barbecue. Australians have always loved offbeat things, which is why you'll find some oddities nearby, including the luminously pink Lake Hillier, remnants of the NASA space station that crashed here 40 years ago, and an inexplicably out-of-place full-scale replica of Stonehenge .

McLaren Vale, South Australia

Found just beyond Adelaide's city limits, McLaren Vale is not only easily accessible, but it's also one of Australia's top wine regions. International travelers typically continue down the coast to Kangaroo Island, but locals with a taste for the finer things know this slice of the Fleurieu Peninsula is worth a staycation in its own right.

The region's Mediterranean climate has had a distinct impact on its wine, with local production skewing toward Italian varietals. The fact you can sip shiraz inside a giant glass Rubik's Cube tells you just how closely wine has mingled with art appreciation, and many cellars typically double as art galleries. The Fleurieu Arthouse is a great place to watch local artists plying their trade.

While the region is known for its cheese and olive oil, nothing lures locals more than the promise of fresh fish and chips by the beach, easily found thanks to an abundance of coastal cafes.

Alice Springs, Northern Territory

Alice Springs and the surrounding Outback hold an enduring place in the hearts and minds of Australians.

The iconic sandstone monolith Uluru is just a taste of what the Outback has to offer. Alice Springs is a launching pad for many adventures, including hot-air ballooning and hikes to watering holes. More recently, the town has reinvented itself as an arts hub, appealing to those who want to see the MacDonnell Ranges come alive with light and sound during Parrtjima , let their hair down in drag at FabAlice , or compete in a quirky "boat race" that takes place in a dried-up riverbed. The Araluen Arts Centre features significant works from contemporary Aboriginal artists and holds regular events celebrating Aboriginal culture.

Seventeen Seventy, Queensland

On a jagged headland thrusting out into the Coral Sea, the unusually named town of Seventeen Seventy has attracted Australians in part because of its laid-back vibes, but also because it's removed from Queensland's more heavily frequented cities.

Named after the year in which Captain Cook first landed in Australia, Seventeen Seventy is surrounded on three sides by the Coral Sea and Bustard Bay. The calm, warm waters lend themselves to swimming, stand-up paddle boarding, and fishing, and its location facing the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef means it's also ideal for exploring quieter parts of the world's largest coral reef system. Regular snorkeling tours and fishing charters depart for Lady Musgrave Island, a coral cay known for its mix of coral reefs and pisonia forests. Plus, campers can make use of the ferry service to camp on the island.

Being positioned so close to Lady Musgrave Island also means that visitors can watch as loggerhead and hawksbill turtles come ashore to lay their eggs (from November to March), resulting in a spectacle when swarms of baby turtles flock back to the sea.

Lorne, Victoria

For many young Australians, the surfing town of Lorne has become synonymous with the essential summer road trip to Falls Music and Arts Festival on New Year's Eve, but the truth is Lorne was drawing locals well before the first big tops were put up.

The town's location, two hours southwest of Melbourne and sandwiched between Bass Strait and Great Otway National Park, means it enjoys the best of the coast and woodlands. Novice and experienced surfers can catch waves along the rocky shores of Lorne Point, while the pier is a good place to drop a line for trevally or barracuda. Meanwhile, temperate inland rain forests boast more than 10 waterfalls within six miles of town, zip-lining adventures, treetop walks, and hidden glowworms twinkling after dark.

Yamba, New South Wales

Frequently described as Byron Bay or Noosa "before the boom," Yamba is a relatively sleepy coastal town 62 miles south of Byron Bay that has all the same hallmarks minus the crowds. There are trendy cafes with swish interiors serving lattes that would make any Melbournian proud, and come nightfall, restaurants serve up fresh seafood caught that day (the town prides itself on its prawns). The historic Pacific Hotel provides live music, a dance floor, and stellar views over the water.

Yamba is home to four beaches, each with distinct water conditions, which means surfers will always find good waves. On Wednesdays, locals visit the Yamba Farmers & Producers Market at the mouth of the Clarence River to pick up their groceries, as well as artisanal pastries, candles, oils, and gins.

Out of town, visitors can explore Iluka Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gondwana rain forest. A nearly two-mile walking track takes hikers past strangler figs and vines and culminates at Bluff Lookout, where you can spot sea eagles and whales.

Hear more from some of our favorite Australians:

Laura brown, former editor in chief, instyle.

"When I return to my hometown of Sydney , it feels like I exhale a long-held breath. The more years I've been away in New York, the more I crave that feeling. It's the funny-sounding birds at Sydney Airport on a bleary early morning after a 15-hour flight from California . That singular "koo-koo-ka-ka" of a kookaburra is the kind of Australian-ness that exists nowhere else. We're a still-young country of settlers, ever reconciling itself with its Indigenous owners, and now in possession of one of the most multicultural populations on earth. We have some of the best Thai curry you'll ever eat (and you'll most likely find it at a casual hole-in-the-wall), local wine that has a sprightly elegance and is delivered with no pretension, and always-excellent coffee that's topped with a heart-shaped froth. The walks around Sydney Harbour expand your lungs with fresh air. Jasmine and frangipani bloom all year long. The common greeting of 'Owzitgoing?' (Cut to writer, weeping from homesickness, wondering why she left.) The blessing and the curse of Australia, for us expats, is its distance. Its total uniqueness. But what will lure me back one day is its heart. And a green curry. Fresh mango. And my mum. Not in that order."

Abel Gibson, winemaker, Ruggabellus

"Wine was a very important part of the culture of the early immigrants to South Australia's Barossa Valley in particular. We are extremely lucky to have a globally significant resource of old-vine vineyards. There is also a very interesting array of minerals in old soils of South Australia. The Barossa and Eden Valley, in particular, enjoy many warm sunny days followed by cool summer evenings. The combination of these three things makes it an extremely exciting place to make wine. Many of us have traveled far and wide around the world and seem to have been drawn home. There is a very enchanting nature to the landscape and pace of life here. It genuinely feels resilient. And when you get away from the villages and into the bush it's hard not to feel the presence of the wisdom of it all."

Louis Tikaram, chef, Stanley

"As a chef, I find the region around Brisbane so inspiring — we have some of the best produce and seafood in the world. Passion fruit, lychee, mangoes, the local Moreton Bay 'bugs' (sweet-fleshed crustaceans), huge mud crabs, and reef fish are all delivered just a couple of hours after being picked or caught."

Chris Hemsworth, actor

"Australia has some of the most diverse, vibrant, and pristine coastlines in the world. The quality of life here is second to none; plus we have some of the most unique marine wildlife. There are places where the red dirt meets crystal turquoise water, and you can go days exploring the coast without seeing anyone else. Or, you can be in the heart of a buzzing city, like Sydney or Melbourne , with great restaurants and beaches just around the corner."

"In The Kimberley, we went fishing in one particular spot that rivaled Jurassic Park — there were crocodiles, snakes, buffalo, and an abundance of other amazing native wildlife. Sunset dinners in The Kimberley are another absolute must. The colors of the skyline there are as rich and vibrant as anywhere I've seen, and it is pretty special to see the millions of stars of the Australian Outback's night sky. We stayed at a beautiful place called Berkeley River Lodge, having dinner each night on a sand dune, barefoot in the desert sand was pretty cool. And one of the best afternoons in The Kimberley was swimming in a secluded waterhole at the base of a waterfall. We helicoptered down along the winding Berkeley River and then boated across to this really private spot. It's something I'll never forget."

"In the Whitsundays, we stayed at One&Only Hayman Island , which was a real highlight. Amazing food and wine, it overlooks the reef — plus, they have an awesome kids club, with face painting, fish feeding, jewelry making, and some great swimming pools for us to chill out as a family. On the Great Barrier Reef, I went scuba diving for the first time, which was amazing. It's like visiting another planet. We also had an afternoon at Whitehaven Beach, which was absolutely stunning—it has the most pristine white sand and crystal-clear water. The next day we took the kids for a picnic and a bit of beach cricket on Langford Island, just off Hayman Island. The kids loved running along the sand and playing in the shallows."

"Seeing Uluru for the first time was really awesome. We had the very special experience of meeting with Sammy Wilson, a local Anangu Traditional Owner. Listening to the local Indigenous people speaking with us about the cultural and spiritual significance of Uluru was fascinating and inspiring. The kids loved running around the base of the rock and exploring all the little caves and trails."

Australia Travel Tips & Destination Guide (2023)

• Christopher Aiello
• June 16, 2023

Start planning your next adventure down under with our Ultimate Australia travel tips destination guide!

This sunburnt continent is known worldwide for its beautiful beaches, national parks ecosystem, amazing coral reefs and wildlife found nowhere else.

Come see the waves and surf at Bells beach , enjoy the coffee culture of Melbourne,  snorkel the Great Barrier Reef or hike through the worlds oldest temperate rainforest there are so many things to see in Australia. 

Planning a trip to Australia is an exciting and fun time full of planning and packing, but there are quite a number of things you should know before you pack your suitcase and travel to Australia.

Whether you’re a backpacker, seasoned traveller or prefer your eggs benny we’ve created this guide to ensure you are best prepared for EVERYTHING Australia can throw at you.

We hope you find this guide on how to travel to Australia helpful in planning your next trip.

Chris and Laura Travels acknowledges the Bunurong people as the traditional custodians of the land, and we pay our respects to Aboriginal elders past and present.

READ MORE>> Check out these INCREDIBLE activities in Australia in 2023

Australia travel tips summary

If you don’t feel like reading this whole guide then this Australia travel summary will give you a basic understanding of what to expect.

The Australian dollar is the currency that comes in both coin and polymer plastic form. There’s also an extensive range of ATMs and banks to withdraw money from.

At the time of writing 1AUD = 0.67USD , 0.54 British Pounds and 0.61 Euro

Entry/Visa Requirements

From countries other than New Zealand you will require a Visa to enter Australia and may need to meet certain health requirements like vaccines that will be declared before arriving. 

Make sure you check the latest update on Australian entry requirements.

A type 1, 3 flat pined adaptor in a triangular fashion using 230V supply voltage in 50Hz is what is used nationwide.

Australia is a huge country, however its made easier for travel with a range of public transport options such as trains and city trams, taxis and Ubers with ride share options. 

Most major train lines in major cities originate in the central business district and flow out to the suburbs and beyond.

Safety tips

Generally speaking Australia is a very safe country for travellers, with a fairly low crime rate and almost non-existent gun issues, the most common crime amongst travellers is petty theft. 

Take normal precautions when walking around cities and avoid dark scary alleys at night time!

The spoken and written language is English, or at least a version of it! If you’ve ever heard Australian slang before you would question if it really is or not. 

Best time to Visit Australia

The summer months run from December to February with average daily temperatures sitting at 25 degrees Celcius. Of course there is a lot of variation to that with temperatures reaching 40C +, or below 20C.

It also happens to be the busiest time of the year to visit Australia as school holidays run from mid December to end of January

Cost of living

Generally speaking it is very expensive to live in Australia, and travellers should expect to pay anywhere from $50-$100 a day on 3 meals in most major cities. That being said it costs nothing to visit the beach and lounge all day.

There are 6 states and 2 territories in Australia, with Canberra being the capital. Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Perth, Brisbane, Hobart and Darwin being the capital of all the other states.

Health Care and Travel Insurance

Australia has one of the best health care systems in the world, seriously! Citizens enjoy free access to public health care, and travellers from certain countries are entitled to this under the Healthcare Reciprocal. 

You can check if your country is on the benefit list here .

If you’re not covered under the agreement, we strongly recommend purchasing Travel Insurance when you visit Australia.

Home to the most amount of top 10 venemous snakes in the world , a sprinkling of spiders drop bears (just kidding), you don’t want to risk serious medical illness or trauma and be out of pocket a house deposits worth!

Thats why we trust World Nomads Insurance, with a wide range of coverage at the best price on the insurance market, we do not pack our bags without it.

INSURANCE HTML

Top 5 Travel Experiences in Australia

The lucky part about exploring Australia is that because it’s so vast and diverse, with ever changing landscapes and climates the top travel experiences are all so different from each other and unique in their own way.

With so many things to see and do in Australia  we’ve curated the Top 5 most popular activities in Australia.

Go Snorkelling/Diving

It goes without saying that snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef is a one of a kind adventure situated on the north east coast of mainland Australia in the tropical north of Queensland.

Whether you choose to snorkel, go scuba diving or simply admire the reef from the boat, this 2300km stretch of biologically diverse marine ecosystem is home to thousands of species of fish, turtles, sharks and colourful coral reef.

Visit Uluru

The cultural heart of Australia and known to postcards worldwide, this gigantic sandstone rock formation in the Northern territory attracts thousands of tourists from across the globe and has to be included in your Australia travel itinerary.

Roughly 550 million years old and sitting within Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park, Alice Springs is the closest town to the red centre some 450km away.

It’s of great spiritual importance to the local Indigenous people of Australia and one of the best ways to explore the red centre is by seeing it from above, or doing one of the hikes around the base.

Sydney Opera House

Sydney is the capital city of New South Wales on Australias eastern coast where the architecturally impressive multi-venue performing arts centre sits in the canals of the south pacific ocean within the Sydney CBD.

Every New Years Eve the world watches the firework display from the Opera House overlooking Sydney harbour bridge which you can also climb.

While you’re in Sydney why not surf at Bondi Beach, walk up the Sydney Harbour Bridge, sail across the harbour, party in Kings Cross or explore the other beaches like Coogee, manly or Bronte Beach.

Get your Sydney Opera admission ticket below

Go on a road trip, anywhere!

Okay so we’re getting a little vague here, but WHY we included this in the top 5 best experiences in Australia is that you can choose any city or town, get yourself a rental car and hit the road to anywhere!

Australia offers some of the best road trips in the world like the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, the Flinders Ranges in South Australia or go inland to central Australia.

Island hop the Whitsundays

When travelling in Australia there are few places that akin to the Whitsunday islands, a group of 74 island off the central coast of Queensland (mostly uninhabited) where the perfect winds allow for world class sailing. 

Sail the Whitsunday islands

Other things to do in Australia

When planning a trip to Australia make sure you consider the following places as these are some incredible bucket-list activities found nowhere else in the world.

Explore Ningaloo Reef

Almost one third of the entire Australian continent is western Australia where an abundance of marine wildlife awaits you at every corner. 

The perfect place to go diving along the Coral Coast and swim with Whale sharks, Manta rays, Humpback whales and the largest fringing coral reef anywhere in the country.

Wander further north and visit Exmouth for its white sand pristine beaches, Coral Bay, Monkey Mia and Shark Bay for stand up paddle boarding on the west coast. 

Make sure you head out to Lucky Bay in Cape Le Grand national park on the southern coast of western Australia to sun bath with Kangaroos.

Take a selfie with Quokkas on Rottnest island

Head to the capital city of Perth for free walking tours of the city, a must do when you visit Australia before heading out to Rottnest Island off of the Coral Bay coast to meet the only Australian animal that will smile for a photo.  

Take the 25 minute Rottnest Island ferry to experience this one of a kind wildlife encounter and combine it with an all day bike rental for $114AUD from Get Your Guide.

Search for Pearls in Broome

The rich waters of Roebuck Bay in Western Australia is known as the largest pearling port in the world, having begun operations in the 1880’s, by the turn of the century there were in excess of 300 ships (known as luggers) involved in the pearling trade. 

Although business declined at the end of WW2, you can still learn about the rich history of pearling by joining a pearl farm tour for $145AUD

Hike the oldest rainforest in the world- Daintree Rainforest

Older than the Amazon rainforest, the Daintree rainforest sits in tropical north Queensland. 

Sir David Attenborough described this place as the most extraordinary place on earth, celebrating its 180 millionth birthday.

Be sure to give yourself enough time to join a full day 4WD tour from Cairns.

Explore the Northern Territory

Abundant in wildlife like saltwater crocodiles, explore the region by taking a Kakadu wilderness escape tour whilst staying in eco-friendly sustainable accommodation.

Just north of Cairns and Port Douglas this place should be high on your Australian itinerary. 

Learn to surf on the Gold Coast

The reason you visit Australia- let’s be real here, is to learn how to tackle world class waves, and the Gold Coast in Queensland makes for a great day trip.

 Why not try a 2 hour surf lesson at Broadbeach on one of Australia’s most beautiful beaches, just remember to stay between the red and yellow flags.

See turtles hatch in Bundaberg

Is there anything more cuter than baby turtles hatching on a beach? Why not see for yourself and experience the largest concentration of nesting Loggerhead turtles anywhere in the south pacific.

Bundaberg is the place to go which is conveniently close to Hervey Bay, Fraser island and the southern Great barrier reef islands of Great Keppel, Heron Island and Lady Musgrave Island.

Venture off the coast and   visit Lady Musgrave island from Bundaberg .  

Stroll down the Southbank of Brisbane

Brisbane may not be the ultimate Australian city that comes to mind when booking an Australian vacation but it’s very handy as a major city stop between Sydney and tropical north Queensland. 

Stroll the city streets for a local pub meal or check into one of the many hostels before making your way north.

Camp out in the Blue Mountains

A short 2 hour train ride from Sydney is the epic Blue Mountains, getting its name from the blue haze that sweeps across the limestone formations when Eucalyptus vapours mix with water in the air.

Take a scenic luxury trip to the Blue mountains from Sydney

Katoomba falls is one of the many waterfalls of the region where you can stay for the night in the town.

The three sisters are a popular natural tourist destination best viewed from Echo point lookout at sunrise or sunset, or  take an eco friendly guided walking tour with Aboriginal Blue Mountains walkabout.

Spend a week in Lord Howe island

A 2 hour flight off the coast, Lord Howe Island is a tiny island that only ever welcomes 400 visitors at a time, because it’s so small! Beach hop or bird watch, this part of New South Wales will blow your mind.

Climb Mount Kosciuszko

At over 2200 metres tall Mount Kosciuszko is mainland Australia’s highest mountain situated in the ACT (Australian Capital Territory) that you have to try on your way from Melbourne to Sydney.

Navigate through the Australian outback

Synonymous with thoughts of Australia, the aussie outback is an incredible display of what harshness and raw beauty of our land. Head to Australia’s northern territory to explore the land still inhabited and revered by Indigenous Australians on a scenic flight. 

Beautiful national parks such as Kakadu national park , Karajini and Litchfield national park as well as the Kimberley region in western Australia. Find local waterholes to spend an evening whilst admiring the sunset.

Train in luxury across the continent

The Ghan train runs between Adelaide and Darwin through both western Australia and the northern territory as one of the worlds finest great train rides. 

 The full length journey will take 4 days across 2979km of rich history and landscape operating April to October, but it’s not cheap!

If you choose to get off in Alice Springs you should consider hiking the Larapinta trail also, one of the best hikes in Australia.

Discover Melbourne laneways and coffee culture

Spend days traversing the maze of alleys and laneways of the central business district of Melbourne, taking the train to the iconic Flinders street station and immersing yourself in the world renowned coffee culture. 

We love a good espresso, why not try a Melbourne Magic!

A scenic boat cruise on the Yarra river is the best way to see the Melbourne city highlights. 

Tasmania’s Wineglass bay

Freycinet national park on Tasmania’s east coast is home to Wineglass Bay (for obvious reason) where you can hike to the best vantage point overlooking the Tasman Sea. 

Take the ferry from Melbourne to Tasmania , see the sights in Hobart but be warned, Tasmania looks small but it’s a very big state.

Take a wine tour

None better than the wineries of South Australia , explore world famous vineyards in Barossa valley , McLaren vale, or the Hunter Valley in New South Wales.

Margaret River in western Australia is another fantastic option here, better yet book a wine tour bus and save yourself from driving!

Skydive for the best veiws

No travel to Australia is complete without seeing it from the sky above- and this skydiving tour in Rottnest Island or the Great Barrier Reef is the ultimate way to see the country in all its glory.

Suggested Australia Travel Itinerary

The 6th largest country in the world with the 6th largest coastline can take A LONG TIME to travel around which is why we’ve created multiple itineraries and road trip suggestions to help you plan.

By far, the east coast receives the majority of Australian tourism as it is the most densely populated region so if you plan on staying for two weeks it’s best to pick one area and stay there, unless you have more than a month!

2 week Australia travel itinerary highlights

If you choose to explore the east coast there are a number of options and very helpful tips we personally recommend.

One month travelling Australia

This is the best amount of time to visit Australia because you wont feel so rushed and if you find somewhere you love you can choose to stay longer and still cover enough ground.

Keep in mind your mode of transport will dictate how many days you stay in one place, obviously flying between cities is quicker but a lot more expensive.

The above table is your best resource for a rough planning idea however if you stay in one state for the whole month then consider adding these to your travels..

Combine WA and South Australia

You can choose to fly direct from Adelaide airport to Perth for just over 3 hours with Virgin Australia, or drive the longest straight road in the country, the Nullarbor plain.

Victoria Itinerary + Far North Queensland itinerary

Hit all the main spots in Victoria and add on this far north itinerary to your trip.

More than one month travel Australia highlights

If you’re staying longer than a month you will need a pre-approved visa before flying into the country. Locals tend to stick to one state and explore a certain region, other will take 6 months to a year to do “The Lap” of the country.

This whole itinerary will take on average 60 days to complete not allowing for travel days as per any itinerary here.

Dive deeper into some of the above cities with our in-depth travel guides. 

Melbourne city guide

Melbourne itinerary

Best day trips

Great Ocean Road itinerary

South Australia:

Adelaide city guide

Day trips in SA

Western Australia:

Best Exmouth attractions

READ NEXT >> Learn more about the BEST Places to Visit in Australia  

Australia Travel Tips

To build trust with you, our reader..one half of this dynamic duo was born and raised in Melbourne, so when we share our top tips for travelling to Australia you know it’s coming from a very reliable source!

We’ve collated a number of topics to set you up for success the next time you plan a trip to Australia.

Best time to visit Australia

The summer months of Australia run historically from December to February, however many places like Far north Queensland often describe the seasons as the ‘dry and wet seasons’.

Average temperatures in summer range anywhere from 20°C to 30°C, (68°F to 90°F) and mostly dry conditions.

In far north Queensland however, when the rest of the country experiences dry weather, the tropical systems bring lots of rain with an average of 2000m of rainfall expected through summer with generally more humid conditions.

Northern Australia summer months also bring about the ‘Jellyfish season’, where large masses of different varieties of Box Jellyfish flood the warm, tropical waters of Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef.

Renting a lycra/stinger suit before diving or snorkelling is strongly advised and the Cairns tourism board to an excellent job of circumnavigating this as it is also the best time of year to go scuba/diving the GBR.

NB: at 2 am on the first Sunday of October, Australia winds the clock forward one hour, giving you an extra hour of sunlight to hang on the beach and party. It then ends on the first Sunday in April where we wind the clock back again one hour.

Travelling in Australia suggested budgets

Australia is a very expensive country to live and travel in, which is why we suggest having a half decent budget sorted before you land.

The cost of living is one of the highest in the world, and at the time of writing, (post covid) its very expensive. However there are ways to travel on a budget and not miss out on things you’d like to do.

Summer is also the most expensive time to visit, coinciding with school and university holidays, prices become VERY expensive.

The cost of flights, accommodation and activities also increase so if you’re looking for a cheaper time to travel Australia to save money then look at the shoulder seasons of October to December , or March to May when the crowds die down.

The Australian currency is the Australian dollar, represented in both gold and silver coins, and polymer (plastic) notes in 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 denominations.

Backpacker budget

You could live on a tight backpacker daily budget of roughly $100/day , including meals, accommodation and public transportation. Assuming you choose cheap city walking tours, spend your days at the beach and enjoy nature you could get away with this.

A standard drink in Australia costs $9AUD so add anywhere from 10-20 AUD to your daily budget.

Mid-range budget

On this budget of $200-$300AUD/day hotels and Air Bnb’s become more enjoyable, a few meals out ($15-20 AUD per meal) as well as some awesome day trips and cheap activities in and around the city or by the water like surfing or diving.

Luxury budget

The sky is the limit with this budget and you can really splurge on eating out for every meal, doing daily activities as well as stying in 4-5 star hotels. Choose to rent a car or a van to get between cities or out to the coast and enjoy road trip around the Australian cities.

Budget tips to make your money last

-Cook your meals in if you have a kitchen available

-Use public transport and walk to places, avoid taxis and use Uber if you need

-Purchase a pre-paid SIM card

-Find free wifi in public places like McDonalds, certain cafes will also offer free wifi

-Cut back on alcohol! Seems like poor advice but your hip pocket will thank you

-Bring a re-useable water bottle like this one from ‘ That Eco Lifestyle ‘

– WWOOF – An Australian program where you work on organic farms in exchange for free rooms and free board. It can make your stay last longer.

Getting in and around Australia

Not only is Australia huge its one of the largest, most isolated continents in the world and prices to fly into the country are often not cheap.

The single biggest advice is to not leave booking your flights to the last minute, instead doing your research well in advance to find the cheapest flights.

The cheapest and easiest way to travel in Australia is by hiring a car and doing self-drives around the states. It’s also the most convenient way to explore.

Companies like Virgin, Jetstar, Qantas, United and Delta all fly into all Australian international airports.

It helps if you put your web browser into Incognito mode, or purchase a VPN from NordVPN . 

Airline companies track the IP address of your computer consistently offering higher rates every time you search, so it helps to keep your information safe and away from peering eyes.

Domestically, Jetstar, Scoot and Tiger airways are the most budget friendly companies to fly with, and they all offer seasonal promotions and discounted flights so keep an eye out.

NB: Post Covid, airline companies have raised the cost of airfares significantly worldwide so expect to pay a lot more for your flight than you would have pre 2020.

To find the cheapest flights all in one place we recommend going with Aviasales.com below

Prices for petrol, diesel and gas are currently high so its important to factor this in ma your travels and weigh this up against the freedom of self driving vs bus tours.

Lots of car rental places operate out of the international airports or close to which makes it easy when you first fly into the country.

Another great option is to hire a campervan and double down on both accommodation and transport. 

We have used this option a couple of times and particularly for Australia road trips we find it the most incredible way to see the countryside.

Your initial outlay to hire the van is more expensive than a car, and may require more fuel than a car, but you will save on the cost of additional accommodation every time you stop in places.

All major Australian cities have an intricate network of public bus transportation in the city, as well as out to the outer city suburbs.

Melbourne city also has a unique tram network that runs around the central business district known as the ‘city circle tram loop’.

Greyhound Bus service is the most extensive and popular bus tour operator in the country, partnering other local bus companies to provide cheap, affordable and comfortable bus travel.

This is definitely the way to go when it comes to budget friendly travel in Australia, meaning you can save money to explore Australia more.

Uber / taxi

Yes, Uber definitely exists in Australia and next to catching a taxi is the most convenient way to get around in short bursts and trips.

Public transportation in the form of trains is also another cheap, reliable and convenient way of getting around cities, as well as making your way out to more rural areas.

Some famous train routes in Australia are ‘ The Ghan ‘ which travels from Darwin to Adelaide through remote outback in luxury style .

The Indian pacific railway system is one of the worlds longest and oldest train network, running 4352km from the east coast in Sydney to Western Australia’s Perth, bypassing some of the most unique landmarks like Uluru, the Blue Mountains and the Nullabor plain.

Both of these options are fairly expensive and luxurious so expect to pay anywhere from $3-4000AUD.

Australia trip planning

Entry requirements for visiting australia.

With some of the strictest borders in the world, having a visa before entering Australia is a requirement for all travellers (except for New Zealand citizens).

Many countries around the world have an agreement with the Australian government that they do not require a visa to enter, but must obtain an Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601) that usually grants stays up to 3 months at a time.

Check the approved ETA countries here.

If you want to stay longer in Australia, then the Tourism Stream (Subclass 600) can grant you more than 3 months stay, pending eligibility criteria and applicable fees.

Find out from this link here which visa is right for you .

Currently the Australian border is open post covid-19 pandemic, though there may be a number of health requirements to meet before boarding, check with your local airline.

Tipping culture

Thankfully the minimum wage in Australia is high enough that a liveable wage is achievable and tipping culture does not exist. Unless your service was fantastic, there is no expectation you tip your hospitality staff.

Safety travel tips

Overall Australia is a very safe country operating in a democratic society without political tyranny or civil unrest.

Solo Backpackers and couples need not fear walking the streets alone, but there are some simple guidelines to observe, and they don’t all revolve around people!

– Don’t walk dark streets alone at night, if you do make sure someone knows where you are.

-The sun in Australia can be brutal, check the UV radiation and always wear sunscreen and make sure to swim between the red and yellow flags at beaches that are patrolled

-Snakes and spiders are a real thing and they are venemous. Make sure you are prepared when out hiking

-Distances between places are longer than you think, plan ahead.

-We drive on the left hand side of the road and give way to the right.

-Be wary of animals crossing the road, be patient and avoid driving at night.

-Drinking and driving is illegal and you must stick to a Blood Alcohol Concentration of 0.05% or below

-The legal drinking, gambling and driving age is 18 years old

Apps and Technology

Technology has come along way in changing how we travel and we’ve found these apps to be the most supportive when it comes to travel in Australia.

– xCurrency – a great app that lets you convert your own currency into whatever else you’d like

– Uber – the most convenient way to get around major Australian cities to avoid taxi fares

– NordVPN – a cheap and secure way to browse the internet with top notch security wherever you go

– BeachSafe – know the best beach to visit nearest to you, including hazards, rips and surf reports

– WikiCamps – A fantastic app that lets you find free camp spots, drinking water, dump points and points of interest

– Campermate – similar to Wikicamps but also New Zealand’s hottest free camps, paid camps and attractions

-FindMY – whilst this is an inherit app to iphones, make sure it is ON incase your phone goes missing.

-Baggage etags -I’m sure you’ve seen instagram stories of this before, but having air tags, or similar location trackers that helps you find luggage or items from flights, buses or general travel can save you big time!

Australian Medical system

Home to the most amount of top 10 venemous snakes in the world, a sprinkling of spiders and drop bears (just kidding), you don’t want to risk serious medical illness or trauma and be out of pocket a house deposits worth!

We have one of the best health care systems in the world, and the good news is that if you’re from one of the countries listed here Australia has a Reciprocal agreement whereby the cost of medically necessary care is covered at no expense to you.

If you’re not from these countries then we still personally recommend taking our travel insurance.

We we trust World Nomads Insurance, with a wide range of coverage at the best price on the insurance market, we do not pack our bags without it.

Australia Packing list

The weather here can vary greatly depending on which region you choose to visit at which time of the year so use this as a rough guide to packing your bags

-swim suit (s)

-flip flops

-closed toe shoes

-hiking boots

-hiking shorts and shirts

-collared shirt (some club requirements)

-beach towel

-rain jacket

-thick + thin socks

Miscellaneous

-laptop + charger

-broad brimmed hat

-sunglasses

-mosquito repellent

-Power bank/travel adaptor with Type 1 plug

Places to stay in Australia

With a range of accommodation options to fit different budgets, one of the best Australia travel tips is to really consider the range of options available to you.

Everything from hostels, air bnb’s, bed and breakfasts, camp grounds and 5 star luxury hotels the prices here can vary from

The benefit to staying in hostels is that your accommodation costs less than $50/night, with access in most places to a kitchen, cleaning facilities and the central location of hostels, meaning you have more money to spend on activities and extend your trip.

A great way to make your Australia travels last as long as possible, this is by far the cheapest way to travel.

Most are centrally located in major cities making ease of access to popular tourist attractions quite simple through use of public transportation.

A mix of both mixed gender dorms, private rooms and female only dorms, full amenities including tv’s, a bar, pool room & guest services, hostels can be the perfect backpacker budget accommodation.

All the cities in Australia offer a selection of both budget motels as well as mid-range to luxury hotels and suites to sleep very comfortable in.

Travel to Australia can be as luxurious or as barebones as you like it to be, with hotel chains like Mecure, Sofitel or Swissotel all apart of the Accor hotel chain group across Australia and New Zealand.

They’re very nice but they’re also very expensive, however if travelling in style is up your alley then why not check out these great deals over at Booking.com

Camping and Caravan parks

Now if you want to go one further and really cut down costs on your trip to Australia then camping is the way to go.

A lot of caravan parks offer tent camping only options for as little as $15-$20/night with use of the water and showers.

Campervans are a very popular way to see Australia and save money, as you get to cook your own meals on site, or eat at restaurants if you wish.

Bed and Breakfasts

The original air bnb, you generally find bed and breakfasts in the outer regions of the city closer to both small and larger regional towns. 

Traditionally offer a more intimate level of accommodation with breakfast cooked for you in the morning by your hosts.

They can often be slightly cheaper than air bnb’s and one of our top tips for Australia is to not shy away from these cute family run cottages as they often make for the comfiest of stays and offer quality travel advice for the region you’re visiting.

How to be a responsible traveller in Australia

This great land is not impervious to the effects of over tourism and plastic pollution, so being mindful of where you are and your footprint as a traveller and visitor is essential to both the economy and the environment.

Tip#1 – Don’t buy plastic bags. Substitute plastic bags for paper bags or cotton tote bags that can be reused over and over again.

Tip#2 – Avoid recycled water bottles, eventually they end up as landfill if not done properly. Purchase reusable bottles like this one here.

Tip#3 – Choose ethical activities. Any tour provider that lets you hold or touch animal are best kept away from and avoided. Instead choose certified, ethically minded tours that also give back to conservation.

Tip#4 – Buy local food from local growers. If possible and in budget, avoid the likes of Woolworths and Coles and support local Aussie farmers and shops that sell organic fruit and veg, or family run stores.

Best things to eat in Australia

Certain cities have a very multi-cultural background and hence the food scene matches each city, but innately we have a bunch of weird and wacky dishes that definitely don’t exist outside of the continent!

Vegemite is top of the list when it comes to acquired tastes; a salty, scrumptious spread that should be used lightly!

Smashed Avo – this is one of the most popular breakfast dishes in Australia, served at most cafes in the country. A smashing of avocado on toast with poached eggs sprinkled with dukkah

Kangaroo – Yes, unfortunately we cull and eat our national emblem but some restaurants serve up a tasty version of this gamey meat

Meat Pies – traditionally served up at football matches or local bakeries, we don’t personally eat meat pies as the meat inside is not often of the highest quality but feel free to try this Aussie pie

Staying connected in Australia

Compared to countries like Canada Australia has some of the cheapest mobile phone plan in the world and this also extends to their SIM card purchases.

A great way to stay connected on your Australia vacation is to bring your unlocked phone and purchase a SIM card from the airport that will have 4G WiFi capability.

Another option is to find free wifi from one of the local cafes or restaurants.

Sometimes you’ll have to buy a coffee or small snack to get the wifi password but then you get free wifi for often an hour at a time.

The other way thats less frequently used is to purchase a portable wifi device that you can get from a number of companies like Telstra, Optus or Vodafone.

Most plans start at around $20/month for 20GB of data and increases from there. 

Best booking resources in Australia

One of the best Australia travel tips we can give you is to leave you with some of the most popular sites for travel planning that we personally use.

They consistently have the best deals on the market and cover your everyday essentials for travel to Australia and beyond.

Sky scanner – cheap and reliable website used to book flights all over the world often with handy cancellation policies.

Agoda – A super comprehensible that combines thousands of discounted accommodation options by city or place

Get Your Guide – The perfect website for on-selling the best activities from all over the world , which can be viewed by specific city or by activity. We use this resource a lot!

World Nomads Insurance – We never leave home without ensuring we’re financially safeguarding ourselves against the unforeseeable events when travelling in foreign countries.

This post contains affiliate links where we earn a small commission from the sale of the purchase to continue providing our read ers  with the latest information and help you plan your holiday

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Chris & Laura

Australian and Canadian freelance photographers & storytellers addicted to travel,  inspiring you to travel the world.

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The wonderful world of Oz

Bubble Tent Australia, New South Wales

Where exactly Bubble Tent Australia is located is kept top secret until bookings are made. All we know is that the three bubbles are somewhere between Mudgee and Lithgow overlooking Capertee Valley, hidden away from each other and the world. With firepits, floating day beds and wood-fired tubs, every detail has been accounted for. By day, it’s all about bird spotting, but it's at night when the tents come into their own. Designed with stargazing in mind, guests are given telescopes and iPads with astronomy apps. 

In2TheWild, various

Off-grid escapes immersed in nature are the order of the day at In2TheWild’s luxury eco-friendly cabins, which are scattered across boutique farms, wineries and ultra-secluded rural locations in the Australian bush around parts of New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria. There are 23 of the tiny but totally stylish cabins in total. Guests can spend their time hanging out in hammocks, going on hikes or snuggling up by the campfire to star watch. Pictured here is a cabin in Orange, NSW.

Reefsuites, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland

Sleep among the fishes in a luxury suite that's suspended beneath Reefworld , a permanently moored floating pontoon on Hardy Reef which lies off the coast of Airlie Beach. The two double-bed suites feature large reinforced glass windows so guests can watch reef life in action from their bed and bathroom – coral trout, snapper, turtles, reef sharks and barracuda are all likely to have a snoop. The pontoon, managed by tour operator Cruise Whitsundays, also offers a glamping experience on its upper deck.

Bayside Glamping & Co, South Australia

A stone’s throw from Marion Bay on South Australia’s Yorke Peninsula, this family-run glamping enterprise is a real gem. Guests can stay in a beachside bell tent or go for the off-grid Tiny House (pictured) just out of town. The cozy cabin, which uses solar power and rainwater, has a large fairy-light festooned deck with lounge and barbecue, along with a hot shower, comfy bed and large windows for enjoying the uninterrupted views of the surrounding grassland, where emus and roos are the only likely onlookers.

Hideaway Litchfield, Rakula, Northern Territory

Hidden away in a remote corner near the enchanting waterfalls and swimming holes of Litchfield National Park are three chic eco-cabins that are entirely made from old shipping containers. Hideaway Litchfield's three solar-powered cabins not only look striking but are exceedingly well appointed, with all the comforts of a boutique B&B. With nothing but native bushland all around, a stay here is about giving in to the rhythm of nature.

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Jamala Wildlife Lodge, Canberra, ACT

Wildlife lovers won’t want to miss a sleepover at this safari-style lodge set inside Canberra’s National Zoo & Aquarium that lets guests get up close and personal to giraffes, lions, meerkats – and sharks. The luxury African-inspired accommodation, which ranges from jungle bungalows, giraffe treehouses and suites inside the main uShaka Lodge, overlooks various animal enclosures. Stays at Jamala Wildlife Lodge include sunset drinks and dinner as well as an exclusive guided tour through the zoo.

PS Julie Fay, Riverland, South Australia

All rivers, creeks, lagoons and river red gum forests, the Riverland region is teeming with birds and native wildlife. Stay on the banks of the red-cliffed Murray River with a night aboard vintage paddle steamer PS Julie Fay . Everything about this B&B houseboat is ship-shape from its well-equipped kitchen (stocked with local ales) to the stack of board games, kayaks and barbecue on top deck.

Karijini Eco Retreat, Pilbara, Western Australia

Deep in the rugged heart of the sun-scorched Pilbara region is a place of plunging gorges and emerald pools and towering termite mounds. Karijini National Park is a truly special place and so too is this bush camp. Owned by the Gumala Aboriginal Corporation, the Karijini Eco Retreat blends into the bushland and is within walking distance of Joffre Gorge. As well as deluxe eco tents, there are dorm cabins, campgrounds and an open-air restaurant. Everyone gets to enjoy out-of-this-world views of the star-strewn sky.

Kooljaman, Cape Leveque, Western Australia

A spectacular wilderness setting is the USP of this truly remote off-grid beachside camp right at the tip of the Dampier Peninsula north of Broome. Set on native title land, Kooljaman is owned and run by the Indigenous Bardi Jawi communities, who share their knowledge and stories of the land on immersive guided tours. These usually include combing for shells along Cape Leveque’s stunning beaches, spear fishing or mud crabbing. There are deluxe safari tents, cabins, log cabins and private beach camping shelters right on the sands.

Wildlife Retreat at Taronga, Sydney, New South Wales

Even the Sydney Harbour backdrop is no match for the adorable sight of snoozing koalas clinging to trees. These are the mesmerizing views that guests can enjoy at Taronga Zoo’s urban eco-retreat . The 62-room sustainably designed lodges are set in native bushland by the harbor, many with views over the Sanctuary, a lush habitat where the ensemble cast of iconic Australian animals roam. A lovely communal lounge and restaurant also overlooks the enclosure and harbor. Stays usually include zoo entry and special immersive guided tours. 

Nashdale Lane Glamping Cabins, Orange, New South Wales

Fine wines, gourmet food and fresh mountain air are what a getaway in the highlands of Orange is all about. Weekenders can even sleep among the vines at boutique winery Nashdale Lane , which has two lovely glamping cabins. After a good night’s sleep on four-poster queen beds, guests wake to views of Mount Canobolas and the surrounding vineyards. Breakfasts can be whipped up on the terrace’s barbecue or the many gourmet gems of Orange are a short drive away.

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The Lily Dutch Windmill, Dakota and Dutch house, Stirling Range National Park, Western Australia

Sleep in an original 1944 Dakota or bed down in a 16th-century-style Dutch house with views of the Stirling Range at this collection of unique self-catering properties in southwest Western Australia. Started by a Dutch-born Australian couple, The Lily's eclectic accommodation is sat next to a handsome working windmill while the reception is housed in a 1924 Federation-style railway station that was relocated here from nearby Gnowangerup.

Paperbark Camp, Jervis Bay, New South Wales

All flickering fairy lights and luxury tents perched among paperbark and eucalyptus trees, Paperbark Camp is a magical enclave near the beaches of Jervis Bay. When it opened in 1999, the owners were glamping pioneers and continue to set the standard for Australia's burgeoning posh bush camp scene. The 13 solar-powered safari-style tents have outdoor decks and some have free-standing baths or outdoor showers for wallowing with views. Candlelit meals of delicious regional and Indigenous produce at the Gunyah (meaning meeting place) are a highlight.

Satellite Island, Tasmania

Shucking wild oysters straight from the sea, lighting bonfires on pebbly beaches, kayaking alongside sheer cliffs and exploring ancient blue gum bushland, a stay on Satellite island is all about outdoor pleasures. The little rugged isle, which sits in the D'Entrecasteaux Channel in the south of Tasmania, was a private family hideaway and salmon farm. Now the island can be hired for groups of up to eight looking for an exclusive retreat. There's the three-bedroom Summer House and two-bedroom Boathouse, as well as a bell tent. It’s BYO food and wine, but a private chef can also be shipped in. 

Bamurru Plains, Mary River Floodplain, Northern Territory

A water buffalo farm in the steamy tropical wetlands of the Northern Territory may not scream luxury but Bamurru Plains is just that. A high-end safari-style camp run by the Wild Bush Luxury group, it has 10 gorgeous bungalow tents where guests can luxuriate and immerse themselves in one of Australia’s most remote areas. Days can be spent poolside or zipping about the wetlands on airboats, spotting crocodiles and birds or fishing. You can also head off on a helicopter flight into Arnhem Land to marvel at age-old rock art. 

Mira Mira, Crossover, Victoria

Surrounded by forest at the foothills of Mount Baw Baw, this fantastical retreat makes for a magical escape in Victoria's Gippsland. Hidden around the property’s 22 acres are four wildly different properties: there’s the Cave House, Tanglewood (an enchanted forest sculpture – pictured), the Japanese Zen Retreat and the English Cottage. Wherever guests choose to bed down, they’re likely to be bewitched by both Mira Mira's fairy-tale feel and the resident wombats, as well as the wild wallabies and possums that roam the bush.

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Kimo Estate, Gundagai, New South Wales

Overlooking a 7,000-acre historic working sheep and cattle farm in rural New South Wales, these are shepherd’s huts with a difference . Exquisitely made using local timber, the double-bed spaces are sleek yet cozy with wood-burning stoves, wood-fired hot tubs, outside kitchens with barbecues and camp stoves, and wraparound views of the estate and the Murrambidgee River flat. Sweeneys (pictured) is the highest of the three properties, which are set well apart to ensure complete privacy.

Banubanu Beach Retreat, East Arnhem Land, Northern Territory

There’s something seriously special about staying somewhere very few others have heard of, let alone will ever visit. This off-the-beaten-track beachside camp is one such place. Set at the northern tip of Bremer Island, off the coast of East Arnhem Land, it was built in partnership with the Yolngu people. Guests at Banubanu sleep in either breezy beachfront bungalows or a penthouse bungalow, all with incredible views of the Arafura Sea.

Steam Train, Forrest, Victoria

Guests take a trip back to the glamor age of rail travel with a stay on board this lovingly restored 19th-century steam train , available to hire on Airbnb. Set in the pretty little town of Forrest in the heart of the Otway Ranges (famed for its weatherboard shacks and excellent mountain biking trails), the train makes for a romantic retreat. The master carriage has a queen bed and there are two other beds as well as a bathroom, outdoor bathtub, small kitchen and open-plan lounge with wood-fired stove.

Desert Cave Hotel, Coober Pedy, New South Wales

Make like an opal miner at this cavernous hotel in outback town Coober Pedy, where locals have long lived in dugout homes to escape the heat. Hewn into the dusty hillside, the underground rooms of the Desert Cave Hotel have high ceilings and are decorated using natural rocks and colors reminiscent of the semi-desert landscape above. There are also shops, a café, an opal interpretive center and a bar and gaming room in the underground area.

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Bruny Island Hideaway, Bruny Island, Tasmania

Peace and solitude are what a stay in this minimalist little Airbnb cabin secreted in a little forest clearing on Tasmania’s Bruny Island is all about. All clean lines, open spaces and light-colored timber, the architecturally designed cabin was inspired by traditional Japanese houses. It’s pleasingly cozy inside, with a log-burning stove and sheepskin rugs set by the windows. Outside, the large deck has a sunken bath and there's a swing for gliding serenely through the trees. With zero light pollution, the aurora australis (or Southern Lights) may even make an appearance at night. 

Church by the River, Lower Portland, New South Wales

A pretty 19th-century Anglican church on the banks of the Colo River in the Hawkesbury region has been thoughtfully converted into a super-cute, light-filled two-bed vacation cottage. Available for bookings on Airbnb , the little timber structure, which was consecrated in the 1880s, has a lovely terrace for peaceful contemplation. Inside many of the church's original features remain, including signs and wooden church pews that are now dining benches.

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Moonbah Huts, Jindabyne, New South Wales

Two solitary cattlemen-style huts in the Snowy Mountains make for the ultimate escape for anglers and anyone who loves the great outdoors. One hut is on the banks of the Moonbah River and the other is on the edge of small private lake, well stocked with brown, rainbow and brook trout. Inside the timber-beamed cabins it's a traditional and cozy scene with antique iron beds and wood-fired cooking stoves along with underfloor heating. The mountain retreats also have verandas with rocking chairs for listening to the chirruping frogs and watching the sunset.

Pumpkin Island, Southern Great Barrier Reef, Queensland

Stand-up paddleboarding, beach yoga and snorkeling with turtles are as up tempo as things get on Pumpkin Island , a private island escape in the Keppel Islands in the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Otherwise, lounging on the beach and casual swims are the order of the day in this tropical escape where it's easy switching off from the daily stresses. Sleeping up to 34, the collection of cottages and beach bungalows can be booked individually or exclusively.

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Ikara Safari Camp, Ikara Flinders Rangers, South Australia

When it comes to location, it’s hard to beat the setting of Ikara Safari Camp . With the majestic natural amphitheater of Wilpena Pound looming right above, the occupants of the 15 tents of Wilpena Pound Resort's glam outback outpost have sensational views. The fan-cooled tents mostly sleep two with a couple of family-sized ones sleeping four. The emphasis at the camp, which is part-owned by Indigenous Business Australia and traditional land owners, the Adnyamathanha, is on eco-conscious exploration and utter immersion in the ancient landscape. 

The Old Penitentiary, Maria Island, Tasmania

Travel back in time to when Tasmania was known as Van Diemen's Land and convicts were interned on this isolated west coast isle. Now a national park known for its walking tracks, empty beaches and abundant wildlife, Maria Island was the site of a penal colony from 1825 to 1832. Today, visitors can experience convict life as they bed down for the night in nine bunkhouse-style rooms in the original convict lodgings of historic settlement Darlington. Be warned there are no creature comforts: there is a wood heater, but no electricity and the toilet block is outside.

Kangaluna Camp, Gawler Ranges National Park, South Australia

For a real outback camping adventure, it's possible to snooze beneath the star-speckled South Australia sky and drift off to a lullaby of bush sounds with a night in a  Swagon . The renovated covered wagon comes with a swag bed and glorious sky views, which is why it's also known as the “galaxy suite”. Elsewhere in Kangaluna Camp, a wilderness retreat located in the Mallee region of the Gawler Ranges on the Eyre Peninsula, are safari tents with handmade wooden beds and private bathrooms. 

Pumphouse Point, Lake St Clair, Tasmania

Perched at the end of a jetty on a glacier lake, remote adults-only retreat Pumphouse Point really is one of a kind. The former hydroelectricity station, which sits out in the middle of the stunning Lake St Clair, was transformed into a stylish hotel in 2015 with the aim of immersing guests in the splendors of Tasmania’s pristine wilderness. As you'd expect, the views from the 18-room property, which is spread across two heritage buildings (the over-water Pumphouse and on-land Shorehouse), are epic.

Secret Treehouse, Blue Mountains, New South Wales

This adults-only treetop hideaway , perched high on stilts in the thick forests of the Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, is well worth seeking out. It’s tempting to spend the entire stay hanging out up in the homely eyrie with just the birds for company – and thankfully the rustic-chic treehouse has everything guests need to do just that. There's a spa bath, kitchenette, fireplace and queen bed, along with jaw-dropping vistas of Bowen's Creek Gorge and the forests at every turn. 

Arkaba, Ikara-Flinders Ranges, South Australia

A stay in a remote 1850s homestead is a rare chance to experience the culture of outback Australia and connect with the ancient landscape of South Australia’s vast Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. Set within a 60,000-acre private wildlife conservancy, there are just five luxurious guests rooms at the Wild Bush Arkaba Homestead . By day, guided walks reveal the stories of the land and traditions of the Adnyamathanha people, and by night, dinners are taken together on the terrace. Photography safaris and scenic flights are available too.

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Australia’s ski resorts celebrate first snowfall for 2024

It is two months out from Australia’s ski season and our biggest resorts are celebrating the first snowfall for the year.

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Australia’s biggest ski resorts are celebrating their first snowfall for the year.

Thredbo in NSW’s Snowy Mountains told news.com.au the resort recorded 10cm “up top” since midnight and it was snowing “all the way down to the village” until about lunchtime.

The team said while it was not unusual for snowfalls to start this time of year, any snow is a good sign for the ski season ahead, which kicks off on June 8.

Pictures showed a snow covered chairlift, tables, trees, ski trail signs, and even the new Alpine Coaster, which launches this winter season.

It is 1.5km in length and passengers can control their speed up to 40km/h as they travel along a mix of uphill and downhill tracks featuring a tunnel, bridges and circles.

On Facebook, Thredbo declared ️“winter mode has been well and truly activated”.

Perisher, the country’s largest ski resort, shared a picture of its snow stake, also showing about 10cm of snowfall.

“Not at all bad for an April dusting!” the resort captioned the photo. ️

Perisher is also planning to welcome back skiers and snowboarders in two months and general manager Nathan Butterworth said Tuesday’s snow was the first taste of what is to come.

“At Perisher we’re lucky to have the space and opportunity for guests to have big moments in the mountains, but it’s also the little moments, like seeing the snow start to fall for the first time that are just as awesome,” he said.

“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome guests back to Perisher Ski Resort very soon.”

Perisher has confirmed it is bringing back its PEAK Snow Days initiative, which was introduced last year to warn visitors about its busiest days.

It said operational transparency was a focus and it would also offer alternative on-mountain suggestions during times of longer lift lines.

Victorian ski resorts also recorded their first snowfall for the year overnight.

Hotham recorded 3-4cm of snow and Falls Creek had 2cm, the resorts said.

Those resorts are both owned by Vail Resorts, which also owns Perisher.

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Richard Phillips, general manager at Falls Creek Ski Lifts, said it was “fantastic” to see snow falling, if only a light dusting.

“With only 9 weeks till our opening day and less until we start making snow ahead of winter it’s great to see the temperatures dropping and snow falling,” he said.

“The village is looking beautiful with a dusting of snow and ready to welcome guests back to the resort on 8 June.”

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This is the shocking moment a 16-year-old snowboarder slammed onto the ground after dangling from a ski lift in California.

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A NSW PE teacher and father-of-two has tragically died after a crash at Perisher, while he was leading a school snow tour.

Travelling solo? Three Australian women share their experiences and tips for going it alone

There can be many barriers getting in the way of travelling — the cost, getting time off and rearranging care commitments.

But for many women there can be an added barrier — having no one to go with.

There seems to be more of a stigma about women travelling alone than men. 

Because it's not just loneliness or the potential awkwardness of being alone that can put some women off travelling solo — it's also about safety.

'Geography of fear' creates a barrier for women

Catheryn Khoo, professor and researcher of hospitality and tourism at Torrens University, says safety is an issue for everyone, not just women.

"It is more the social discourse around safety that is a huge barrier for women wanting to travel solo," Dr Khoo told the ABC.

"The media perpetuates danger by reinforcing.

"It creates the geography of fear for women and incites self-doubt."

But Dr Khoo says there are many good reasons for women to travel on their own.

"Women find themselves tied to the responsibilities attached to their roles as women, mothers, daughters, wives, and partners.

"But when they go on a solo journey, they no longer have to fulfil these roles.

"They live only for themselves and only have themselves to take care of."

And when they share these experiences, it can also empower other women to break the stigma. 

"Women who have actually travelled solo are creating a social acceptance of doing so, which gives others courage to do the same," Dr Khoo says.

"For these women, the motivations are personal growth, self-discovery, empowerment, and independence."

We spoke to three women about their experiences travelling alone. 

'Yearning for adventure'

Eleea Navarro has climbed Mount Fuji, ridden bareback with Andalusian horses in Spain and braved the heat of the Sahara Desert. 

And she did it all on her own.

"I feel confident travelling by myself," Eleea tells the ABC.

"And the thing that still pushes me to travel is the thrill of the unknown, my yearning for adventure, wanting to connect with new people, and wanting to get to know myself better.

"The beauty of going solo is that the only person you have to convince is yourself."

'Liberating' and 'overwhelming'

Travelling abroad was never a possibility for Chelsea Golding's family when she was growing up.

But now she's in her 20s, things are different. 

So when the timing felt right in 2023 she decided it was "now or never" and went on a solo trip through South-East Asia for three months.

"Going off on my own for the first time was definitely a shock to the system," Chelsea tells the ABC.

"It went in waves where it was the most liberating feeling, to something that felt quite overwhelming.

"But I would absolutely do it again, it was an amazing experience."

Writing the next chapter

For Donna Manders, the catalyst for her solo adventure was a little different.

After her divorce a few years ago, she found herself experiencing a lack of identity, not knowing who she was or where she fitted in. Even though she had love and support from her children, family, friends and work colleagues.

"I felt like I still had so much to offer and that I was only halfway through my life story," Donna tells the ABC.

"The usual commentary around situations like this, a middle-aged, divorced woman with grown children, is 'just keep going as the best is behind you now'.

"But that didn't feel right to me."

So, with an unexplainable desire to push herself, Donna decided to take a leap of faith and write the next chapter of her life story.

She travelled for two and a half months through Italy, England, and Scotland solo.

"Although it was a journey of emotions along the way, I learnt how capable and resilient I actually am," she says.

"I learnt to trust my intuition, lean into the solitude and silence, so I could finally hear myself."

But it wasn't all sunshine

Eleea says being able to travel is an incredible privilege, but warns that it is romanticised online.

"Just like in real life, you're likely to get exhausted, ripped off, sick, injured, financially stressed, overwhelmed, lost, confused, or lonely.

"I've experienced everything from intense food poisoning while on a 10-hour bus commute, being scammed by a dilapidated half-built resort in Hoi An, and getting bitten by bed bugs from a cheap hostel in Budapest.

"I was also depressingly lonely for days on end on one of my first solo trips to Vietnam.

"I resorted to crossing my fingers as people walked past, hoping they'd talk to me."

Donna says that although she felt excitement and joy, there were times where she felt isolated, lonely and sad, but was able to navigate her way out of those feelings with a few tools.

"I repeated my favourite affirmations, listened to music — this is where your favourite playlist comes into the picture — wrote in a journal, and just learnt to trust myself."

Chelsea recalls times where she was shouted at and experienced catcalling in Malaysia.

"There's probably nothing I could have done in that situation to make it less confronting, as I was already dressing modestly to respect the customs."

What are their safety tips?

Eleea recommends walking with confidence and trying not to look like a tourist.

"If you're following directions on maps, try putting one headphone in your ear to listen to the audio cues, instead of constantly looking down at the map on your phone," she said.

"This helps you stay more aware of your surroundings and look more confident, like a local."

Eleea says she also wore a plain ring on her wedding finger as a deterrent from unwanted attention.

Here's some more tips from our three solo travellers:

• Learn the language and customs of your destination 
• Give friends and family members your full itinerary
• Never go overseas without travel insurance
• Dress simply and don't wear expensive jewellery to avoid unwanted attention
• Keep in touch with a good support network, even if they're back home
• Switch on a 'find my phone' setting on your smartphone
• Travel light with your luggage so you confidently carry everything without help
• Book accommodation near public transport
• Project a sense of being in control, especially in crowded places and public transport areas
• Be wary about giving out the address of your accommodation
• Get an e-SIM or local SIM card that allows you to make calls and access the internet
• Call family of friends while walking out at night on a quiet road
• Carry your valuables in bum bag strapped around your waist or a crossbody bag
• Wear a backpack on the front of your body when in crowded places or on public transport

How to overcome solo travel fears

Do your homework before you start booking.

" Join a supportive online community that supports women's travel," Dr Khoo says.

"This will mitigate perceived risks, and eliminate fear, doubt, and anxiety.

"You can also read the empowering literature on solo travel and be inspired by the stories."

This was something Donna couldn't recommend enough.

Chelsea and Eleea recommend staying in hostels as a way to meet fellow travellers and build a sense of community away from home.

"I would often meet friends in my hostel dorm or on free walking tours on my first day in a new destination," Eleea says.

"I usually opt for the largest mixed gender hostel dorm available, as it's typically the cheapest and the most likely place to meet new friends.

"And most importantly, don't be afraid to say hello to somebody and start a conversation."

Prepare yourself for a certain level of discomfort, Chelsea says. 

"You can plan as much as possible but there will always be an element that you can't predict or feels out of your control.

"So being willing to be uncomfortable is necessary."

But Eleea believes overcoming these minor discomforts can make you more confident and resilient person.

"Plus if nothing goes wrong, then you have no funny stories to tell when you get home."

'Best thing I've ever done'

Donna says travelling on your own takes confidence and courage.

It helps you gain perspective and can reveal strengths you never knew you had. 

This is why Donna says it's the "best thing I've ever done". 

"I highly recommend it to anyone, especially middle aged women who may think their story is over.

"Don't be put off by your age.

"If you want to do it, give it a go."

For Eleea, solo travel has altered the course of her life in the most positive light.

"I have never regretted a trip, even if things weren't perfect.

"I feel so lucky to have the passport and freedom to see the world, and I try to appreciate and immerse myself in every moment."

• X (formerly Twitter)

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Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 moon sighting highlights: Crescent seen in Kerala, Ladakh, J&K. Eid in rest of India on April 11

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Want to see the next total solar eclipse in 2026? An expert recommends booking travel now.

• 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years.
• Travelers worldwide will likely head to Spain, Iceland, and Greenland for the event.
• A hotel expert encouraged travelers to start planning and booking their trips now.

It'll be two decades before the next total solar eclipse hits the US .

Another option: hop on a plane to Europe and turn the 2026 total solar eclipse into a viewing vacation.

Eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told Space.com that up to 3.7 million people likely traveled for the solar eclipse on Monday.

HotelPlanner's chief communication officer, Philip Ballard, told Business Insider that the eclipse was a major revenue generator for many cities. For places like Austin, Texas, and Rochester, New York, it could have created $1 billion in revenue, Vox reported.

"I would say the total solar eclipse has become a global phenomenon," Ballard said.

Ballard added that the next solar eclipse , which will pass through Iceland, Greenland, and Spain on August 12, 2026, could result in similar tourism and revenue influxes.

And if travelers are considering a trip to Europe for the solar eclipse, Ballard recommends planning your trip now.

Determine your eclipse viewing destination

According to Space.com , 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years. Its path will go through Greenland, parts of western Iceland, and northern Spain.

Choosing where to watch the eclipse will be a tough and important decision for travelers.

Iceland and Greenland have some positives. These regions will experience longer totality times, so viewers can watch the eclipse longer. Plus, the sun will be higher in the sky, so finding a spot to watch the eclipse will be less challenging, Space.com reported.

The downside is that these regions are more likely to be cloudy, according to the outlet.

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While parts of Spain are likely to offer clearer skies, the eclipse's timing will be shorter and closer to the horizon, which means travelers will need to plan and track down a viewing location with unobstructed views of the western horizon, Space.com reported.

Regardless of the destination, according to the outlet, one bonus is that the strongest meteor shower in the Northern Hemisphere will happen the following night, so travelers can pack two events into one trip.

Book flights and hotels far in advance

Ballard encouraged people to book their hotels in their destination of choice as far in advance as possible.

"You should start looking now and booking hotels now because those cities in the path are already going to be at peak season," Ballard said.

Ballard said it's similar to when a Super Bowl city is determined or a Taylor Swift tour date is announced — you immediately see spikes in bookings. He predicts hotel occupancy rates will hit near-record highs, and room prices may double around the solar eclipse date.

Ballard's general rule of thumb is to book international travel at least three months in advance, but since this is such an anticipated event, booking earlier is smart. His advice is to start discussing plans with friends and family. If you decide on a destination, book a refundable room to keep your options open if plans change.

Regarding purchasing a plane ticket, a study from Expedia states that international travel's sweet spot is at least six months in advance.

According to Expedia, travelers who book six months in advance save an average of 10% more than travelers booking within two months or less.

Skip the hassle of planning altogether and book a solar eclipse tour

Another option is to let a tour operator do the work for you. A handful of tour companies have seen the increased interest in the solar eclipse and launched tours designed around the event.

These tours will have predetermined locations to view the eclipse, hotel blocks reserved, and itineraries highlighting both the region and the eclipse.

However, these can sell out quickly. For example, Space and Telescope created an 11-day tour of Spain around viewing the 2026 solar eclipse. The tour has already sold out as of Wednesday, and the waitlist is full.

Other operators, such as Wilderness Travel and Eclipse Traveler, have similar itineraries for the total eclipse in 2026.

Watch: A small Australian town was treated to a rare hybrid solar eclipse

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.

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10 of Australia’s most iconic road trips

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Feel the freedom of the open road with these unmissable road trips.

By Leah Dobihal and Carly Spek

There’s no shortage of adventure on the spectacular Legendary Pacific Coast between Sydney and Brisbane , boasting the wineries of the Hunter Valley , the sparkling beaches of Port Stephens , the hippie-chic scene of Byron Bay and the glitz of the Gold Coast . It’s a wind-the-windows-down kind of road trip that embraces Australia’s coastal beauty and laid-back vibes, even passing one of the most iconic road trip pit stops: the Big Banana .

Drive the Legendary Pacific Coast Touring Route

From world-class wine to sparkling beaches and ancient rainforest walks, the New South Wales Legendary Pacific Coast is a drive to be savoured.

Read time • 8min

Coastal drives fit into a road trip category of their own, with the endless ocean on one side and sweeping landscapes on the other. One of Australia’s most spectacular coastal drives is New South Wales’ Grand Pacific Drive . Beginning just south of Sydney , the road clutches the coastline, unfurling onto the Sea Cliff Bridge, which seemingly levitates above crashing waves. Along the way, visit a dramatic blowhole in Kiama, stroll along the bone-white shores of Hyams Beach and witness ancient history .

Sydney to the Sapphire Coast road trip

With pockets of paradise like Eden and Merimbula, the Sapphire Coast in New South Wales is so much more than just a whale-watching mecca.

Read time • 6min

The central Australian outback is a place of transformation. Ancient ochre landscapes, dynamic cultures and starry skies create an energy unique to Australia’s red heart. Driving the Red Centre Way, a loop beginning and ending in the outback town of Alice Springs , means meeting Australian icons at every turn. Ulu r u, Kata Tju t a and Watarrka National Park are the heavy hitters, but don’t overlook the dramatic gorges and cool swimming holes of Tjoritja (the West MacDonnell Ranges).

Alice Springs to Uluru: a 7-day road trip

Tour the ancient landscapes of Central Australia on this iconic Aussie road trip through Alice Springs, Kings Canyon and Uluru.

Not all great drives are long drives, even in a place as big as Australia. From the tropical city of Cairns to the wilds of Cape Tribulation, the Great Barrier Reef Drive offers more than its fair share of wonders. Where else can you stand on the border of two World Heritage Listed sites ? Or spot the vibrant colours of both cassowary birds and coral? Amid your travels between the reef and the Daintree Rainforest , you can chill beneath palms, search for tree kangaroos and snorkel over the kaleidoscope of colours and creatures on the reef .

14-day Tropical North Queensland Drive

Drive from Cairns to Townsville via Cooktown, through World Heritage-listed reef and rainforests to golden outback savannah, taking in tropical Queensland at its finest.

Read time • 11min

Meandering all the way from Adelaide to Darwin , the Explorers Way passes through a tapestry of ancient gorges, weathered peaks and red rock canyons. In South Australia’s outback, you’ll find the natural wonders of the 600-million-year-old Flinders Ranges as well as the underground city of Coober Pedy. After crossing the border into the Northern Territory , you’ll soon see the majestic Ulu r u and Kata Tju t a appear ahead as the earth turns red beneath your tyres.

14 days along the Explorers Way

This 14-day adventure takes you down the centre of Australia, from Darwin to South Australia. Along the way you'll explore striking landscapes from wetlands to deserts, as well as outback towns, world-class wineries and beautiful beaches.

Read time • 10min

From snow-capped mountains to sapphire-blue bays, Tasmania is overflowing with natural beauty. Take in Tassie’s coastal wonders as you follow one of the island’s grandest road trips – the Great Eastern Drive . Head north from Hobart to the Bay of Fires , where the beaches are white, the air is clean and the scenery is magnificent. Wander around the sandstone ruins of the World Heritage-listed Port Arthur convict settlement one day and find yourself admiring the perfect curve of Wineglass Bay the next. 

5 days on Tasmania’s Great Eastern Drive

Sample the splendours of Tasmania’s stunning east coast, from seafood and wine to lush rainforest and powder-white beaches.

Read time • 5min

If experiencing Australia’s wide-open spaces is on your wishlist, set your sights on the Nullarbor Plain , located along the Great Australian Bight. There are incredible experiences to be found as you drive along the open road, from wandering the wild coast of South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula to hitting the holes on the world’s longest golf course . Add in caves, old gold mining towns, the remains of a space station that crashed to Earth and character-rich roadhouses, and the Nullarbor becomes a bucket list Aussie road trip.

Driving across the Nullarbor Plain

Widen your horizons driving the Eyre Highway across the vast Nullarbor Plain, four times the size of Belgium.

Read time • 9min

The centre of the Kimberley is as vast and majestic as its famous coastline. The Gibb River Road , which stretches from Derby (near Broome ) to almost as far as Kununurra , is a legendary outback route for good reason. Offering secluded gorges, rocky ridges and that indescribable open-road feeling, it’s a drive that will transform you with each passing kilometre. Head off in a 4WD to explore bulbous boab trees, glimpse the rugged Cockburn Range and soak in glassy waterholes.

Gibb River Road: a 12-day adventure

Journey across one of the country’s greatest 4WD adventures through Western Australia’s captivating Kimberley wilderness.

The route between Perth and Esperance truly has it all: blindingly white beaches, strikingly clear water, some of the tallest trees in the world and premium wineries. Lose yourself in the natural beauty, seclusion and tranquillity of the South West Edge road trip. Pay a visit to Lucky Bay’s beach-loving kangaroos, bounce along a walkway suspended in the treetops at the Valley of the Giants and join an expedition to see killer whales (between late January and April). And that’s just the start.

Western Australia's South West: 14 day road trip

Experience the extraordinary landscape of the South West in one great road trip.

Read time • 16min

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most thrilling drives, studded with dramatic views of rugged coastline. Take it slow and enjoy the breathtaking views along this iconic stretch of road before heading inland to discover dense forests and misting waterfalls. Seize the chance to marvel at the famous 12 Apostles’ towering limestone rock formations – stunning at any time of day, but especially as the setting sun turns the cliff face a fiery red.

6 days on the Great Southern Touring Route

Take a road trip along Victoria’s eye-popping southern coastline, through Aboriginal history and into sparkling spa country. It’s nature, nurture and wonder all the way.

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We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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