Explore the most beautiful places to visit in Australia!
This guide cuts straight to the chase, bringing you the best places to visit down under.
From the dusty red Centre of Uluru to the lush green canopies in the Daintree Rainforest to the grundgy vibe of downtown Melbourne, we’ve included the most bucket-list destinations to visit in Australia.
Whether you’re looking for iconic urban landmarks, serene natural wonders, or immersive cultural experiences, we’ve got you covered.
Get ready to explore the highlights and hidden gems that make Australia a top travel destination, with practical tips to make the most of your journey.
27 Bucketlist Places to Visit in Australia 2023
Australia is the largest island on earth and many who live here or travel here do so with the sole intention of exploring the vast and diverse landscapes.
Some choose to fly, other prefer to embark on inland or coastal road trips.
There are 3 general routes people road trip
- Melbourne to Darwin (south to north)
- The East coast
- The West coast
The east coast is by far the most popular route and one that takes the longest time to drive due to the density of beach towns, famous Australian attractions and all round awesome things to see in Australia.
Some embark on what we call “The Lap’ – a circumnavigation around Australia either east to west coast or in reverse.
No matter which way you travel, this guide to the Best Places to Visit in Australia will set you up perfectly for the whole family to enjoy.
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Sydney – Most visited destination in Australia
Chances are high that you’ll start your adventures down under by flying into one of the best places to visit in Australia.
Many confuse Sydney with being the country’s capital (that’s Canberra) but you can be forgiven for thinking this, as many of the most iconic architectural monuments of this country live here like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney harbour bridge.
Built in 1932, the Sydney Harbour bridge connects Sydney siders from the central business district to the North Shore and you can even walk the harbour bridge for epic views over much of the inlet of the Tasman Sea.
Interestingly Sydney is the most visited place in all of Australia in 2023.
The Sydney Opera House is an architectural marvel, designed by Jorn Utzon and opened in 1973, it’s a multi venue performing arts centre that’s also become a UNESCO world heritage site.
Many international and domestic flight paths will fly right by these iconic Australian monuments and your captain may even point it on on your descent.
Go for a walk through the Botanic Gardens, see the beautiful beaches like Bondi beach, Manly beach, Bronte and Coogee or visit Taronga Zoo for awesome wildlife.
For the history buffs go for a stroll through The Rocks, a neighbourhood of historic laneways that sit behind Sydney harbour bridge.
Best place to stay in Sydney
The Grand Hotel is our top pick for the mid-range budget traveller close to Sydneys central business district.
Tropical North Queensland
High on the list of travellers looking for a great Australian road trip to iconic Aussie destinations is Tropical North Queensland, otherwise known as Far North Queensland.
The climate of Tropical North Queensland is different from many other places you can visit in Australia, as the rest of the eastern seaboard experiences a more chilly winter, TNQ turns into warm summer days with clear blue skies.
As previously mentioned it’s also home to two of Australia’s World Heritage sites: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest of Daintree national park, two of the best places to go in Australia.
Visitors can dive into the underwater wonderland of the Reef from Cairns or Port Douglas, the main tourist city, exploring vibrant coral gardens and marine life.
The bustling Cairns Esplanade, with its lagoon and night markets, provides a cultural hub, while the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway presents a unique perspective from above the canopy.
This region’s blend of ecological marvels and accessible adventures makes it a pivotal chapter in any Australian travel guide.
However Tropical Queensland is so much more than this, it’s home to the Eastern Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people, the traditional owners of the land.
Best place to stay in Tropical Queensland
The Hotel Tropiq is our top pick for the mid-range budget traveller
Great Barrier Reef
This UNESCO World heritage site has to be one of the best places to visit in Australia, and certainly a bucket list destination in Australia.
The Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system that covers 349,000 square kilometres is a hub of marine life; more than 1500 species of fish and 400 species of coral live here which comprises 8% of the planet’s fish species.
It’s a fantastic place to go snorkelling and scuba diving alongside coral reefs and reef shark species.
The Great Barrier Reef sits along the Coral Sea of Queensland and is accessible by taking flights from Cairns, Airlie Beach, Port Douglas or far north Queensland in Cape Tribulation.
Above the water, visitors can explore the tropical islands, each with its unique character, from the luxurious Hamilton Island to the unspoiled Fitzroy Island.
The best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is between June to October, when rainfall is low and the rest of Australia is going through winter.
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Kakadu national park, NT
Formerly Australia’s largest national park and yet another UNESCO World heritage site, Kakadu National Park is a real-life adventure playground in the Northern Territory, affectionately referred to as The Top End.
Covering 20,000 square kilometres of the Northern territory and nearly half the size of Switzerland, it’s one of the best holiday destinations in Australia.
Kakadu national park is home to the Mininj and Mungguy Indigenous Australians as well as having some of the oldest Indigenous rock art in Ubirr, on the planet.
You can hike to the towering Jim Jim Falls, cruise around the croc-filled Yellow Water Billabong, or just chill and watch the sunset paint the Nourlangie rock walls.
Over 280 bird species live here as well as the largest reptile on the planet, the largest Saltwater Crocodile, that has been recorded measured lengths over 7 metres long, yet there’s an estimated more than 100,000 crocs here so be sure to be croc-wise.
It’s a place where every corner has a story, and the local guides are the best storytellers around.
Whether you’re up for a boat trip to spot birds and buffalo or want to learn about the Aboriginal art that’s been here for ages, Kakadu’s got you covered.
Best place to stay in Kakadu
The Aurora Kakadu Lodge is our top pick for the mid-range budget traveller in Jabiru
The Daintree Rainforest, QLD
If the allure of the oldest tropical rainforest in the world isn’t enough to get you to see one of the most beautiful places in Australia then you need to think again.
At over 180 million years old, this corner of Queensland is most famous for being where two World Heritage sites, the rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef meet between Cairns and Cooktown.
Giant palm trees, mangroves, and vines cover the rainforest canopy and line the walkways here, taking you back in time to a place older than the Amazon rainforest.
Being the inspiration for the movie ‘Avatar’, the rainforest is home to more then 663 species of animals, 230 species of butterfly and 2800 different types of plants.
For those keen on wildlife, a cruise along the Daintree River might reward you with sightings of crocodiles lounging on the banks.
Take a leisurely walk down the Kulki boardwalk at Cape Tribulation and soak in the iconic scene where the lush, green embrace of the rainforest tumbles down to meet golden sands and rugged headlands.
Mossman Gorge is a must see destination here offering trails that weave through thickets where the trees tell tales older than history.
Adventure up to the canopy on aerial walkways at the Daintree Discovery Centre, or take a dip in the emerald waters of Cooper Creek. Each site in the Daintree is a chapter of a story millions of years in the making.
Best place to stay in Daintree rainforest
The ferntree rainforest lodge is our top pick for the mid-range budget traveller
Sail the Whitsundays, QLD
What comes to mind when you think of a 74 tropical island archipelago, surrounded by pristine beaches, immaculate swirling sands viewable from the air?
The Whitsunday islands of course!
This slice of paradise attracts just under a million people through their doors every year to stay at the incredible Hook Island and Hayman island.
Though most of the islands here are uninhabited, most guests will choose to stay on mainland at Airlie beach and do awesome day trips to the Whitsundays, in particular Hamilton Island, which combines luxury with the raw beauty of the Australian bushland.
Whitehaven beach is often hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with its 7 kilometres of immaculate silica sand, the Whitsundays also serve as a gateway to the awe-inspiring Great Barrier Reef, one of the best places to visit in Australia.
Hiking to Hill Inlet is a must see attraction for those seeking a panoramic view of the archipelago’s swirling white sands you’ve surely seen on postcards, or go on a helicopter ride over the famous heart shaped reef.
Go for a sail around the Whitsundays dropping anchor in secluded bays, snorkelling hidden reefs and simply enjoying the sunshine in serenity.
September and October are the peak seasons for the Whitsundays, however going from November to December will see you bea the school holiday rush.
Best place to stay in the Whitsundays
The Queens beach tourist village is our top pick for the mid-range budget traveller
Gondwana Rainforests of Queensland
The Gondwana Rainforests are nestled within Queensland’s Lamington, Springbrook, Mount Barney, and Main Range national parks.
Embark on a journey back in time with a visit to the Gondwana Rainforests, a World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into the prehistoric world.
These rainforests are remnants of the vast Gondwana supercontinent, which covered one fifth of the planet many, many years ago.
Today, they serve as a living museum, home to ancient flora and fauna, including some of the oldest bird species like lyrebirds and bowerbirds.
For hiking enthusiasts, trails through Springbrook and Lamington National Parks are a must. Join Rainforest Tours Australia to explore stunning waterfalls, panoramic vistas, and the famed Natural Bridge.
Kangaroo Island, South Australia
Located off the mainland of South Australia, Kangaroo island is a sanctuary of native wildlife and natural beauty.
This unique Australian destination is not only the third largest island in Australia but also a treasure trove of iconic landmarks and experiences that includes a strong wine industry and iconic wilderness in Flinders Chase national park.
A short and mildly expensive 40 minute ferry ride across the Great Australian Bight from Cape Jervis to Penneshaw opens up a world of adventure across a mere 143 km of island.
Head into Flinders Chase to see the Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, a collection of granite boulders artfully sculpted by the forces of nature over millennia.
We travelled to Kangaroo island in 2020 and loved our experience road tripping across the island, and it’s so lovely to see the regeneration of the natural flora and fauna after the devastating bushfires of 2020.
Head down to Seal bay conservation park to see this large colony of Australian Sea Lions frolic on the sand beneath the boardwalk, or head to one of the many incredible beaches that have been named one of Australia’s best beaches like Stokes bay, Emu bay or Vivonne Bay
Learn More about Kangaroo island >> After reading this guide to Kangaroo Island you might want to move here
The Blue Mountains, NSW
Located only a short 90 minute drive or a two hour bus ride from Sydney, the Blue Mountains are a prime destination for visitors looking to explore Australia’s natural wonders, dramatic cascading waterfalls and untouched nature.
They’re one of the more grand yet easily accessible natural wonders of Australia using the New South Wales Opal card to get here.
The picturesque village of Leura in the Blue Mountains, you can hop on a shuttle to Megalong Valley, the starting point for the 45 kilometre Six Foot Track, a challenging 3 day hike from Katoomba to Jenolan caves rewarding views of native bushland and towering sandstone cliffs.
Head to the Three Sisters rock formation and the expansive views from Echo Point Lookout, both of which are must-visits for any trip to the region.
Katoomba falls are one of the most popular tourist destinations easily accessible by foot or car from Leura.
The Great Ocean Road, Victoria
The Great Ocean Road in Victoria is a legendary route that offers some of Australia’s most picturesque coastal views of Port Campbell national park
A must-visit is the Twelve Apostles; another UNESCO world heritage site and one of the best places to visit in Australia.
These limestone stacks rise majestically from the Southern Ocean and are best viewed at sunrise or sunset from the free boardwalk accessible from the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre. Find it on google maps.
We’ve travelled the Great Ocean road many times and love the sense of wonder and amazement every time you turn a corner to see the dramatic cliffs that surround the road on every turn. The drive itself (without stopping) won’t take you longer than 2 hours or so as it officially runs from Torquay to Allansford.
Take your time driving this road and look out for the turn off points along the way for sweeping views across the southern ocean.
The road itself is a journey through diverse landscapes, from the surf break at Bells Beach to the ancient rainforests of Otway National Park, visitors can also explore charming seaside towns like Apollo Bay and take in the history at Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge and even walk down the Gibson Steps.
For those looking to connect with nature, a walk through the Maits Rest Rainforest Trail reveals the region’s lush greenery.
Driving the Great Ocean Road is not just a trip; it’s an experience that captures the essence of Australia’s natural beauty, making it a top destination in Australia for travellers.
The best way to experience this scenic drive is by renting a car; you get the ultimate freedom to explore at your own pace without relying on public transport. We personally recommend Rental Cars for all our car hire needs when we’re abroad.
Ningaloo Reef, WA
Comprising almost one third of the continent, Western Australia has its fair share of remarkable landscapes and unique destinations and one of those is also the second largest fringing coral reef in the world, Ningaloo Reef, in the western most part of Australia.
Ningaloo Reef means ‘deep water’ in the local Indigenous peoples language and is famed for its vibrant coral gardens and the opportunity to swim with the oceans largest fish, Whale Sharks.
The reef is accessible just a few metres from the shore at places like Turquoise Bay, making it an ideal spot for snorkelling. For a more in-depth exploration, the nearby town of Exmouth provides dive tours that take you to the heart of the marine action.
Landmarks such as the Vlamingh Head Lighthouse offer panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and are perfect for sunset photography. Ningaloo is also a prime location for witnessing the annual coral spawning, an extraordinary natural event in March and April.
If you love the ocean and marine wildlife this is most definitely one of the best places to visit in Australia.
With its clear waters and abundant marine life, Ningaloo Reef stands out as a must-visit destination for travellers looking to experience Australia’s unique marine biodiversity.
Best place to stay in Ningaloo Reef
The Ningaloo caravan and holiday park is our top pick for the mid-range budget traveller
Explore Melbourne
Ranked the most liveable city in the world many times over, we can personally tell you that Melbourne is Australia’s most culturally diverse, vibrant and exciting city to visit in your Australian itinerary.
We’ve personally lived in Melbourne for 32 years and simply love the inner city laneways like ACDC lane, Hosier lane and Degraves street that are brimming with street art and boutiques, offering a labyrinth of local culture and creativity.
The coffee culture in Melbourne is second to none and it really isn’t hard to find an amazing coffee anywhere in Melbourne, and if you’re up for it ask for a Magic (double ristretto with ¾ flat white)
For sports enthusiasts, the Melbourne Cricket Ground is an iconic venue, steeped in history that showcases both AFL and Cricket year round. . Visitors can also take a stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens or catch a show at the Arts Centre Melbourne, known for its distinctive spire.
The nearby Federation Square provides a central meeting place, buzzing with activity and hosting world-class events like the Australian Open tennis tournaments and world cup soccer.
Spend an evening enjoying an espresso by the Yarra River and finish off your night at a hole in the wall asian fusion restaurant with a nightcap at a rooftop bar overlooking the city skyline, Melbourne’s nightlife is world class.
Best place to stay in Melbourne
The Ibis hotel is our top pick for the mid-range budget traveller
Rottnest Island, Western Australia
Rottnest Island, located 19 km off the coast of Western Australia outside of the capital city of Perth, is a popular holiday destination in Australia with crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches.
Famous for its resident Quokkas, the island offers unique wildlife encounters that are both charming and Instagram-worthy. The Basin is a popular swimming spot, with its natural rock pool providing sheltered waters perfect for snorkelling.
Visitors can explore the island’s military history at Oliver Hill Battery, or take in panoramic views from the Wadjemup Lighthouse. With no cars allowed, cycling is the best way to navigate the island’s scenic paths, leading to secluded bays and pristine beaches.
Best place to stay in Rottnest Island
The Discovery resorts is our top pick for the mid-high end budget traveller
Uluru Kata Tjuta, Northern Territory
Of all the places to visit in Australia could you even say that you visited this continent without travelling to the red centre?
The giant sandstone rock is called Uluru, a sacred site of deep cultural significance to the Indigenous Anangu people of the Northern Territory that lies within Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
Visitors can take guided walks around the base of Uluru to learn about the ancient rock art and stories of the land. Nearby, the 36 domed rocks of Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) rise from the earth, offering awe-inspiring hikes through the Valley of the Winds.
Watching the colours of Uluru change at sunrise or sunset is a sought-after experience, or even viewing the rock from a helicopter or fixed wing flight.
The only town nearby, Alice Springs is still a 7 hour road trip from here, so you can either choose to fly into Alice Springs or Ayers Rock Airport.
Visit the Gold Coast, Queensland
The Gold Coast in Queensland is a vibrant hub popular amongst Aussies chasing the best mix of city life meets beach paradise, making it a standout destination for our Australia list of best places to visit.
Surfers Paradise as it’s known, with its high-rise skyline and surf-friendly beaches, is the heart of the action, offering a lively atmosphere popular amongst end of year school celebrations.and a stretch of sand that’s perfect for both surfers and sunbathers.
For family fun, the Gold Coast boasts a plethora of theme parks, or nature lovers can head to the hinterland, where Springbrook National Park and Lamington national park presents ancient rainforests and stunning waterfalls.
We’ve spent a lot of time on the Gold Coast over the years, travelling there for family holidays to the theme parks, however we prefer the more quieter areas at this stage of our lives so we prefer to head into Burleigh heads for epic surf beaches or go even further north to visit Noosa.
Best place to stay on the Gold Coast
The Oaks Gold Coast Hotel is our top pick for the mid-range budget traveller
Atherton tablelands, Queensland
The Atherton Tablelands, situated above Cairns in Tropical Queensland, are reached through a picturesque drive that climbs the mountain range from the coast of north Queensland.
The tablelands are most easily accessed from Cairns, Cape Tribulation and Port Douglas roughly 4.5 hour away.
This area is a patchwork of rainforest and savanna, highlighted by natural volcanic crater lakes such as Barrine and Eacham.
As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia, Millaa Millaa Falls, is a favourite for swimmers and photographers.
Wildlife enthusiasts can head to the Curtain Fig Tree for birdwatching or to the region’s clear streams to spot our most elusive wildlife, the platypus. The historic village of Herberton offers an interactive glimpse into the past with its open-air pioneer museum.
Indigenous cultural sites of the Wadjanbarra Yidi, the traditional custodians of the low lying forest scattered across the Tablelands provide a meaningful narrative of the land’s ancient heritage.
Adventure seekers can indulge in the extensive network of hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and the unique experience of hot air ballooning over the lush landscape.
Most recommend tour in the Atherton Tablelands
Byron bay, New South Wales
One of the more popular places to visit in Australia is Byron Bay on the east coast of New South Wales.
Byron Bay is a coastal town within the New South Wales North Coast, popularly voted as the most loved tourist destination for Aussies, with a laid-back vibe and stunning natural landscapes.
The iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse stands as the most easterly point of the Australian mainland, offering breathtaking views, especially at sunrise.
Full of art galleries, trendy cafes and thrift shops, Byron Bay has one of the most expensive property markets in the country.
The town is a surfers’ paradise with spots like The Pass offering world-class waves. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the tranquil waters of Wategos Beach provide the ideal setting for swimming and picnics.
Learn to surf in Byron Bay with a 2 hour surfing lesson
Margaret River, Western Australia
This Western Australian town south of Perth is celebrated for its premium wineries and exceptional surfing.
Producing some of Australia’s best wines there are over 150 wine makers and cellar doors in the region and opportunities to go on wine tours and taste the local brew.
Margaret River is a surfers haven- attracting surfing enthusiasts from around the world to the Margaret River Pro surf competition at Surfers point.
Visitors can explore the ancient Mammoth Cave or trek the scenic Cape to Cape Track. This diverse mix of gourmet and adventure makes Margaret River a quintessential Australian experience.
K’gari (Fraser Island)
K’gari, formerly known as Fraser Island, is the world’s largest sand island that sits off the east coast of Queensland and still one our favourite places to visit in Australia.
This World Heritage-listed site is famous for its ancient rainforests growing directly from the sand, and the remarkable, crystal-clear Lake McKenzie.
At only 120 km long and 23 km wide, this island was once a part of mainland Australia but now visitors to K’gari can experience the raw beauty of this epic Australian beaches like 75 mile beach, Eli Creek, Maheno Shipwreck and more by exploring in a four wheel drive.
Made famous for its resident Dingoe population, K’gari offers an unparalleled blend of adventure and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for any Australian travel itinerary.
Most recommend tour in K’gari
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Adelaide
One of the most famous wine regions in Australia and one of our favourite states to visit in Australia, the Barossa Valley lies just north of the Adelaide Hills near Adelaide.
The region is home to the iconic Penfolds, among other internationally recognized wineries, where visitors can sample the celebrated Barossa Shiraz.
Head into town to walk around the Adelaide Central Market and try the local vendors, or admire Adelaide Botanic Gardens or Cleland conservation park to try the many hiking trails.
The Adelaide Fringe festival is held February to March with international artists and vendors putting on a fabulous event that draws crows from all over the word.
When we travel to South Australia our go-to spot is the Fleurieu Peninsula where you can drive your car on the many public beaches like Sellicks beach, Aldinga Beach and Port Noarlunga.
Access from Cape Jervis gets you across to Kangaroo island to explore this tiny wilderness.
Best place to stay in Adelaide
The Hotel Richmond on Rundle Mall is our top pick for the mid-range budget traveller
Wilsons Promontory, Victoria
Wilsons Promontory National Park, the southernmost tip of mainland Australia, is a haven for nature lovers with its abundant wildlife and pristine beaches.
Only a 3 hour drive south of Melbourne CBD and 2 hours from where we live, it’s an amazing place to see sunrise and sunset from, and on a quiet, clear night the Aurora Borealis can be seen from Norman beach.
Visitors to Wilsons Promontory are drawn to the panoramic views from Mount Oberon Summit, while Squeaky Beach offers unique quartz sand that ‘squeaks’ underfoot.
Hiking is very popular and there’s lots of both short hikes like the Prom wildlife walk, day hikes as well as overnight hikes to choose from.
Tidal River is the only campground within the national park and offers both camping and lodging options, but best to book early because Wilsons Promontory is one of the busiest and most popular places to visit in Victoria during summer.
Most recommend tour in Wilsons Promontory
Karajini national park, Western Australia
No guide to the best places to visit in Australia is complete without mentioning Karijini national park in Western Australia’s north west region.
Karijini National Park is a spectacular showcase of the Australian outback, with its deep, rugged gorges and serene waterfalls, the most photographed of them all, Hamersely Gorge.
7.5 hours drive from Exmouth of the Ningaloo Reef to this stunning national park is achievable in a day trip preferably starting early morning and arriving by late afternoon following the Nanutarra/Munjina road.
To plan your visit to Karijini national park, bear in mind that Joffre Gorge, Hancock Gorge, Weano Gorge and Kermits pool are all within a short walking distance of each other but Deano and Hamersley are more than an hours drive from these.
Fortescue Falls in Dales Gorge offers a refreshing dip, solidifying Karijini as a top natural wonder in Australia.
Tasmania
Our closest island relative; Tasmania, off the southern coast of Victoria has over 2800 km of hiking trails, untouched rainforests, a thriving local market scene and some of the best Australian attractions this side of the country.
Head to Freycinet national park for sunrise and walk the Wineglass bay lookout on the eastern side of the state before heading into the many markets, distilleries and quaint streets of Hobart where you could walk for hours exploring the MONA Musuem, Battery Point, the Salamanca markets and more.
Go for a day trip from Tasmania to explore Bruny Island and see the Bruny Island light house.
We’ve never personally visited Cradle mountain in the north west of the state but by all accounts this place is meant to have some fairly challenging hikes with rewarding views.
A lot of people looking to visit Tasmania take the Spirit of Tasmania overnight ferry ride from Port Melbourne to Devonport to hike the Overland track.
Australia’s premier Alpine walking track set amongst 65 km through 6 day of some of the most pristine and untouched rainforest and walking trails set between the Tasman Sea and Indian Ocean.
Port Arthur natural historic site is not our favourite site as it was the scene of Australia’s only mass murder many years ago, however feel free to visit if you enjoy that sort of thing.
Overland Track Cost: $285 AUD adults, $245 AUD children
The Kimberleys, Northern territory
The Kimberley, one of Australia’s most remote regions and home to one of most isolated but beautiful national parks.
One of the most unique places to travel to in Australia, this is vast expanse of ancient landscapes is a place where you can traverse the Gibb River Road, a rugged journey leading to hidden gorges and cascading waterfalls like Bell Gorge and Mitchell Falls.
The iconic Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park with its tiger-striped sandstone domes is one of the best places to see in Australia, while the bejeweled waters of Lake Argyle are beautiful from a scenic flight above.
The Horizontal Falls, described by David Attenborough as one of the natural wonders of the world, offer a thrilling boat ride through powerful tidal currents.
he Kimberley’s blend of cultural history and natural wonders, from ancient Aboriginal rock art at sites like the Wandjina and Gwion Gwion galleries to the rich marine life of the Buccaneer Archipelago, provides an unparalleled Australian experience.
Broome, Western Australia
Broome, a coastal town in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, is renowned for its unique blend of beach and desert and simply the coolest place to visit in Australia.
Although it can take a while to reach here (5003 km from Melbourne) the rewards are unrivalled and a high south after popular tourist destination.
The town’s Cable Beach, One of Western Australia’s most famous beach, offers 22 kilometres of soft white sand and turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean with camel rides at sunset providing an iconic experience.
Nearby, the historical Gantheaume Point reveals dinosaur footprints at low tide and offers stunning ocean views. The multicultural pearling town also hosts the natural phenomenon of the ‘Staircase to the Moon’, where the rising full moon creates an illusion of steps leading to the heavens.
Broome’s rich pearling history can be explored at the local museums, making it a culturally significant destination
Best place to stay in Broome
The Oaks Broome hotel is our top pick for the mid-range budget traveller
Sapphire Coast, NSW
One place some of my friends in Melbourne visit every year with their family and I’ve been told many time is one of the coolest places to visit in Australia is the coastal town of Merimbula, set in the sparkling blue waters of the Sapphire Coast of New South Wales coastline.
It’s not a very well known part of Australia but this sets the scene for unspoiled natural beauty, from the rugged cliffs of Eden to the tranquil waters of Pambula Beach.
Merimbula’s Main Beach caters to surfers and families alike, while the Merimbula Boardwalk winds through mangrove forests, offering a serene walking experience. The historical village of Tilba Tilba provides a cultural retreat, nestled in a landscape that seems frozen in time with its National Trust-classified buildings.
Nature lovers are drawn to the diverse ecosystems within Ben Boyd National Park, where the red-rock formations of the Pinnacles and the historic Boyd’s Tower stand as testaments to the area’s geological and human history.
For wildlife enthusiasts, the Sapphire Coast is a haven for spotting whales during their migration, and the nearby Montague Island is a sanctuary for seals and penguins. With its combination of coastal charm, historical sites, and natural wonders, the Sapphire Coast is a destination that offers a rich tapestry of experiences for travelers seeking to explore Australia’s varied landscapes.
Australia’s Northern Territory
Australia’s Northern Territory is an expansive region where the outback meets the tropics, offering a diverse range of experiences. The iconic Uluru stands as a colossal monolith, sacred to the Indigenous Anangu people and a symbol of Australian natural heritage.
The nearby Kata Tjuta formations add to the region’s mystical allure and the contrast between the turquoise waters of the coast to the dry and arid outback of Alice Springs.
Darwin, the capital, serves as a gateway to the biodiverse Kakadu National Park, where visitors can encounter Aboriginal rock art, wetlands, and wildlife. The rugged gorges and wild rivers of the Katherine area provide a playground for road trippers.
Alice Springs, the heart of the Red Centre, is a starting point for exploring the West MacDonnell Ranges and the historic Telegraph Station. The Northern Territory’s vast landscapes and rich Indigenous cultures make it a compelling destination for those seeking to delve into Australia’s heartland.
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