best places to visit in august in australia

Australia in August: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

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Freycinet National Park at sunset in Australia

From skiing in the southern alps to basking in tropical warmth up north, you can experience a diverse range of activities in Australia in August. This winter month in the Southern Hemisphere country presents many opportunities for exploring varied landscapes and vibrant cultures.

The south is cooler, perfect for cozy urban explorations in Melbourne or Sydney, while the northern regions enjoy dry, sunny days ideal for outdoor adventures. August marks the peak of the ski season in the Snowy Mountains and Victorian Alps great for winter sports. The month is also a great time for whale watching along the East Coast, while the Outback hosts a mild winter climate, becoming much more accessible for exploring iconic sites like Uluru.

This article will guide you through the best destinations, activities, and weather insights to help you plan an unforgettable Australian adventure in August, catering to various interests and preferences.

Is August a Good Time to Visit Australia?

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Cradle mountain in Tasmania, Australia

August is an excellent time to visit Australia. This month falls within the country's winter season, making it fabulous for skiing in the Alps of New South Wales and Victoria. It's also a prime time for wildlife enthusiasts, with whale-watching opportunities along the east coast and the chance to see desert flora blooming in central regions. August hosts several cultural events, including the vibrant Darwin Festival for the arts and the Melbourne International Film Festival, providing rich cultural experiences in a less-crowded environment.

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Elizabeth Quay in Perth, Australia

August is Australia's last winter month, with varying weather patterns across the country. The tropical north sees warm and dry conditions, with average highs around 89°F in Darwin. Southern cities like Melbourne and Hobart can be quite cool, with daytime temperatures ranging from 55°F to 59°F. Coastal areas like Sydney and Perth enjoy mild weather, with highs around 47°F. Rainfall is generally low, except in the south, where winter is the rainiest season.

Fitzroy Island off the coast of Cairns in Australia

Sydney • Best Place for Sightseeing

The mild August weather makes exploring Sydney's iconic landmarks, such as the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, comfortable and enjoyable. The month brings clearer skies for spectacular views from vantage points like Mrs Macquarie's Chair. August is also prime time for whale-watching cruises departing from Sydney Harbour, adding a natural spectacle to its architectural and cultural offerings.

Cairns • Best Place for Great Weather

In August, Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef region see Australia’s best weather. This tropical paradise enjoys warm, sunny days with average temperatures ranging from 64°F to 79°F, making it a super time for outdoor activities. August falls within the dry season, meaning minimal rainfall and low humidity for exploring the Daintree rainforests or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef. The pleasant conditions also make it a fantastic time for scenic flights over the reef, island hopping, and enjoying outdoor dining.

Melbourne • Best Place for Families with Children

Explore Melbourne’s indoor and outdoor activities in cooler winter weather in August. You and your children can experience interactive exhibits at Scienceworks, scenic train rides on the Puffing Billy Railway in the Dandenong Ranges, and winter bush walks. August also coincides with the Melbourne International Film Festival, which often includes family-friendly screenings. With its diverse culinary scene, excellent public transport, and abundant parks and gardens, Melbourne caters well to families seeking entertainment and educational pursuits.

Tasmania • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

Tasmania is the perfect destination to avoid crowds in Australia during August. With its rugged wilderness and historic towns, this island state has a tranquil ambiance in winter. The highlands' cooler temperatures and occasional snow create a fantastic atmosphere for exploring national parks like Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair without the summer crowds. August is an exceptional time for cozy stays in boutique accommodations, enjoying world-class cool-climate wines, and visiting uncrowded museums in Hobart. The month also marks the tail end of the truffle season, giving food enthusiasts a chance to indulge in the delicacy without the usual tourist rush.

The Barossa Valley • Best Place for Couples and Honeymooners

The Barossa Valley in South Australia is a romantic haven for couples and honeymooners in August. This world-renowned wine region will provide you with a cozy winter escape among rolling hills, historic vineyards, and charming stone cottages. Indulge in intimate wine tastings at prestigious cellars, enjoy gourmet experiences at award-winning restaurants, and take scenic hot-air balloon rides over the frost-kissed landscape. The cooler weather provides a good excuse for cuddling up by a fireplace in a boutique bed and breakfast or luxury resort. With fewer tourists than in peak season, August is all about a personalized and unhurried exploration of the valley.

Vineyard in Byron Shire, New South Wales, Australia

Attend the Orange Winter Fire Festival

The Orange Winter Fire Festival in New South Wales is a culinary celebration over two weekends in August. This event showcases the region's food and wine through various activities, including baking workshops, traditional Wassail ceremonies, and gourmet dinners at wineries. Indulge in culinary pursuits while enjoying the warmth of fire pits and community spirit.

Explore the Great Barrier Reef

August is a phenomenal time to visit the Great Barrier Reef as the weather is warm and the water visibility is at its best. Engage in snorkeling and scuba diving to witness the vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations. The cooler temperatures make for comfortable exploration, giving you the chance to fully appreciate one of the world's natural wonders.

Ski in the Snowy Mountains

The Snowy Mountains dish up outstanding skiing opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts in August. Resorts like Thredbo and Perisher provide a range of slopes for all skill levels, along with snowboarding and other winter activities. The picturesque alpine scenery and cozy lodges make it a fabulous getaway if you want to embrace the winter season.

Discover the Whitsundays

With warm temperatures and low humidity, August is ideal for exploring the Whitsundays. Enjoy sailing trips around the stunning islands, relax on the famous Whitehaven Beach, or partake in water sports like kayaking and snorkeling. The clear skies and pleasant weather provide a spectacular backdrop for a tropical escape.

Visit the Royal Adelaide Show

The Royal Adelaide Show in late August is a popular annual event celebrating South Australian agriculture and culture. It features a variety of attractions, including livestock competitions, food stalls, carnival rides, and live entertainment. This vibrant event presents a unique insight into local traditions and is fun for the whole family.

Whale-watching in Australia

August in Australia rolls out a range of experiences, from the snowy peaks of the south to the sun-soaked beaches of the north. Whether you're seeking winter sports, wildlife encounters, cultural festivals, or tranquil escapes, this month provides something for every type of traveler. With fewer crowds at many popular destinations and the chance to see a different side of the continent, August truly showcases Australia's versatility as a year-round destination.

For more detailed information on planning your Australian adventure in August, take a look at our Australia travel guide or our Australia tours and vacations .

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The 30 Best Places to Visit in Australia (2024 Edition)

• Last Updated: January 13, 2024

Trying to figure out the best places to visit in Australia can be a daunting task. Luckily for you, I’ve done the travel and exploring to make your decisions easy.

The country is huge, and lots of its amazing attractions are widely spread out across the continent. 

This article is part of our comprehensive travel guide to Australia, which you can read here.

Australia has six states and two territories, each offering a vast number of unique tourist attractions for travellers to enjoy. 

Table of Contents

1) Melbourne

2) karajini national park, 3) ningaloo reef, 4) the whitsunday islands, 6) the snowy mountains, 8) esperance, 9) the daintree rainforest, 10) tasmania, 11) the southern highlands, 12) jervis bay, 13) adelaide, 14) the great barrier reef, 16) kakadu national park, 19) the gold coast, 20) the blue mountains, 21) margaret river, 22) wilson’s promontory, 23) kangaroo island, 24) byron bay, 26) brisbane, 27) k’gari (fraser island), 28) the great ocean road, 30) the murray river region, top places to visit in australia.

So when planning a trip to explore the top Australian holiday destinations, you may want to pick one state or coast in which to start. Then either explore that state fully or hop on a few domestic flights to see some other parts of the country. 

Better yet, rent a car or campervan and go on a road trip!

Hopefully, this article on where to go in Australia will inspire some of you to explore one, two, or all eight of this country’s incredible regions. 

So here are the best places to visit in Australia. 

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.

Many travellers (and Australians) will say that  Melbourne  is their favourite city. 

As the capital of Victoria, Melbourne is one of the colder cities in Australia because it is located so far south. 

But what it lacks in warmth and sunshine it makes up for in art, culture, cuisine, architecture, and entertainment. 

Melbourne is known for its trendy cafes, art galleries, nightlife, and a wide variety of restaurants. 

You can spend your time sipping high-quality coffee, searching for colourful street art, and enjoying cocktails from a rooftop bar overlooking the city skyline. 

READ MORE: Check out the perfect 3 day Melbourne itinerary .

Located in Western Australia, Karajini National Park is perfect for adventurous travellers and really is one of the best places to travel in Australia.

This massive area of wilderness is packed to the brim with natural beauty and outdoor activities. 

Go swimming in  Fern Pool , photograph  Fortescue Falls , hike  Mount Bruce  or try and spot some indigenous wildlife. 

The park is most famous for its gorges and canyons, whose swirling rock patterns are incredibly photogenic. 

Some of the most popular gorges in Karajini National Park include  Hamersley Gorge, Joffre Gorge, Hancock Gorge, Weano Gorge  and  Dales Gorge.  

Near the town of Exmouth in Western Australia is Ningaloo Reef, one of the best places to see whale sharks in the world. 

Every year these massive but gentle creatures gather around Ningaloo Reef to feed, and travellers can book a tour to go snorkelling and swimming alongside them. 

This is one of the best places to visit in Australia for lovers of marine life.

You can fly here, but we recommend travelling to the reef by going on a Perth to Exmouth road trip . 

For those who often daydream about a perfect island paradise, the Whitsundays is one of the most beautiful places in Australia.

Located on the east coast of Queensland and encompassing over 70 islands, the Whitsunday Islands have stunning beaches and rich marine life. 

Most of the islands are uninhabited, and most visitors choose to stay in  Airlie Beach , the main tourist town of the Whitsundays. 

Airlie Beach, along with Whitehaven Beach and the beaches of Hamilton Island, boasts some of the best views in the area. 

Sparkling white sand, palm trees, and turquoise waters make up most of the scenery, and the wildlife of the Great Barrier Reef fills the surrounding oceans. 

Popular activities in the Whitsundays include snorkelling or diving in the reef, sailing around the islands, or taking a helicopter ride over the famous heart-shaped reef and enjoying an aerial view. 

The capital of the Northern Territory , Darwin is a city filled with history. 

Darwin is home to a few great museums and galleries, including the fascinating  Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory  which showcases art and technology from the Pacific. 

It only takes a couple of days to explore the city of Darwin, and most travellers use the city as a gateway to visiting nearby places like  Litchfield National Park and  Kakadu National Park .

Australia is not famous for its skiing and snowboarding, but the Snowy Mountains are one of the best places to go for those who want to try out some winter sports. 

Stretching across southern New South Wales and northeastern Victoria, the Snowy Mountains are full of jagged peaks, local wildlife, and a few top-notch ski resorts. 

This is the highest mountain range in mainland Australia, and it is home to  the country’s tallest mountain , Mount Kosciuszko. 

During the summer months of December, January, and February, travellers come to Kosciuszko National Park for hiking and wildlife-spotting. 

During the winter months of June, July, and August, the mountains fill up with fresh snow and provide perfect slopes for skiing and snowboarding. 

The most popular ski resort is  Thredbo , located at the foot of Mount Kosciuszko.

If you’re wondering where to go in Australia, chances are you will begin your journey in  Sydney . 

Sydney is the biggest travel hub in the country, and home to many of the top tourist attractions in Australia.

The downtown area is full of skyscrapers and traffic, so the real magic lies near the water. 

Sydney Harbour  is iconic, and landmarks such as the  Sydney Opera House,  the  Botanic Gardens,  and the  Sydney Harbour Bridge  are not to be missed. 

Take the ferry from Circular Quay up to Manly and enjoy the gorgeous Sydney beaches , or take the bus out east to the popular  Bondi Beach,   Coogee , and  Bronte . 

READ MORE: Plan to have at least 1 awesome day in Sydney when exploring the best places to visit in Australia!

To find that picturesque combination of turquoise water and white sand while searching for the best places in Australia, head to Esperance.

This coastal town has plenty of stunning beaches, including  West Beach, Blue Haven Beach, Lovers Beach,  and  Fourth Beach . 

For more natural beauty, head to  Cape Le Grand National Park  to find fields of wildflowers, secluded beaches, and lots of native Australian wildlife. 

Other attractions in the area include  Lake Hillier , the famous pink lake, and the  Recherche Archipelago  where you can find adorable seals and sea lions living peacefully.

READ MORE: Be sure to add these great things to do in Esperance to your Australia itinerary!

If you find yourself venturing up to tropical north Queensland, try to make a stop in the Daintree Rainforest. 

Located in Daintree National Park, this is easily one of the best places to see in Australia. 

It is the oldest tropical rainforest in the world, and exploring this corner of the country truly feels like stepping back in time.

Between the giant palms, jungle vines, tropical fruits, messy mangroves, deserted beaches, massive trees, and interesting wildlife, the Daintree Rainforest can feel like another planet. 

The island off the southeast coast of Australia, known as Tasmania (check out all the epic things to do in this article ) , is arguably one of the most beautiful and wild places to visit in Australia. 

Tasmania is most well known for its clean, fresh air, its flavorful local produce, its abundance of national parks and nature reserves, and its overall gorgeous natural beauty. 

The  Bay of Fires, Cradle Mountain  and the granite peaks of  Freycinet National Park  are among the most popular natural sights among travellers. 

There are plenty of hiking opportunities in Tasmania for fitness enthusiasts, including the challenging and scenic  6 Day Overland Track . 

The capital city of  Hobart  is also a lovely place to visit. It is full of world-class restaurants using local produce and dairy products, as well as plenty of museums that showcase the rich history and artistic talent of the island.

READ MORE: Use our 2-week Tasmania itinerary to plan your visit!

Just a few hours southwest from Sydney lies the Southern Highlands, a luscious area of rural New South Wales. 

The Southern Highlands are full of rolling green hills, dense forests, hiking trails, and majestic waterfalls. 

After exploring in the wilderness, you can stop by one of the many adorable local towns like  Bowral  or  Robertson  to grab a classic Australian pie or browse through an antique shop. 

READ MORE: Check out our epic Australia itinerary blog post for information on how to make the most of a couple of weeks in the country.

If you head about 140 km south of Sydney you’ll find Jervis Bay, a small but stunning corner of NSW. 

The bay is home to a few small villages, and lush forests weave their way in between the civilisation. 

There are some great bushwalks and hikes in Booderee National Park in Jervis Bay, though the area’s highlight is definitely the beaches. 

For the best views, hike along the  White Sands Coastal Track . This easy walking trail through the bush brings you to several beaches with velvety sand and refreshing, calm clear waters for swimming. 

Along this trail, you’ll find  Hyams Beach , which some claim has the whitest sand in the world.

READ MORE: Check out our list of the best things to do in Jervis Bay !

As the capital city of South Australia, Adelaide is a great place to visit for culture and cuisine. 

Though not as huge as Sydney or Melbourne, Adelaide has plenty of museums, art galleries, festivals, shops, restaurants, and cafes to entertain any traveller. 

Popular places to visit include the  Adelaide Botanic Gardens , the  Adelaide Central Market,  and  Cleland Conservation Park  for walking trails and waterfalls.

The city’s biggest event is the  Adelaide Festival , which occurs every year in March and bursts with art and culture. 

Adelaide is also home to many of the country’s best vineyards and wineries in nearby Barossa Valley, so doing a wine-tasting and vineyard tour is one of the area’s best attractions. 

READ MORE: Check out our Adelaide city guide for great things to do!

The Great Barrier Reef is by far the top of the bucket list of places to visit in Australia for most travellers.

It is the largest coral reef system on the planet and is home to hundreds of islands and diverse marine life. 

Located off the coast of Queensland in the Coral Sea, the Great Barrier Reef is easily accessed from places like  Cairns, Airlie Beach, Port Douglas, or Cape Tribulation . 

Snorkelling or scuba diving is the best way to get up close to the reef and observe marine life with your own eyes. 

The best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is between June and October when the rainfall decreases and water visibility increases. 

This is winter-time in Australia, so up in Queensland, the temperatures drop to a comfortable level as well.

As far as Australia destinations go, Noosa is a dream. 

This little slice of paradise is located on the coast of Queensland and is full of pristine beaches, national parks, and classy, expensive shops and restaurants. 

Noosa Heads National Park  is where all the best scenery is, including hiking trails, peaceful picnic grounds, and amazing beaches like  Tea Tree Bay . 

Longboarders also flock to Noosa for the right-hand point breaks that create perfect, rippling waves. This is a great place to learn how to surf!

READ MORE: Plan your trip to Noosa and add these great activities to your itinerary!

As the country’s largest national park, Kakadu is an incredible place to include for best holiday destinations in Australia.

Nature lovers will never tire of exploring all that Kakadu National Park has to offer.

From crocodile-spotting in  Yellow Water  to swimming in  Jim Jim Falls , to witnessing ancient Aboriginal rock paintings in  Ubirr , to hiking and camping in the bush, there are plenty of amazing things to do here. 

Located in the Northern Territory, Kakadu National Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  

Set on the bright blue waters of the Indian Ocean, Broome is a small resort town in the Kimberley Region of Western Australia. 

For ‘grey nomads’, this is one of the best places to holiday in Australia.

Fun activities to do in Broome include visiting a local pearling farm, bird-watching near the  Broome Bird Observatory , and searching for dinosaur tracks at  Gantheaume Point . 

Cable Beach  is the most famous beach in Broome. At 22 km long, Cable Beach is covered in soft white sand, and perfect for watching the sunset or riding camels. 

Just be sure to avoid swimming in the ocean during the rainy season, from November to May, because dangerous jellyfish are common during these months.

READ MORE: Add these great things to do when you visit Broome!

Also known as Ayer’s Rock, Uluru is one of the most interesting and unique places to visit in Australia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This huge red rock formation in the middle of the desert is made of sandstone and is sacred to indigenous Australians. 

The closest town is  Alice Springs , which is a 7-hour drive away, so Uluru is quite a journey to get to. 

But if you are road-tripping through the Outback or travelling cross-country through the Northern Territory, you should definitely try to stop by Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park for a night and watch the sunrise or sunset over the sacred rock. 

Located on the south coast of Queensland, the Gold Coast is a popular city to include in an Australia list of best places to visit. 

It is rare to find so many skyscrapers and so many beautiful golden sand beaches right next to each other, so travellers can enjoy the vibrant city life and the relaxing beach life at the same time. 

The Gold Coast has a few fun theme parks, and it is just a short train ride away from other charming beach towns like  Burleigh Heads  and  Surfer’s Paradise . 

The city is also a great gateway for visiting  Lamington National Park , a vast area of mountains, valleys, and forests.

READ MORE: Check out all the great activities to do in The Gold Coast!

If you want to experience real wilderness, this is one of the easiest and best places to visit in Australia. 

The Blue Mountains   (don’t miss our epic guide on what to do in that link) are just a one-hour train ride away from Sydney, making them a super convenient location for travellers arriving in the city. 

Full of great, spacious valleys, rugged cliffs, and towering waterfalls, the Blue Mountains are majestic and feel truly wild sometimes. 

There are a few quaint towns set amidst the forest, like  Katoomba  and  Blackheath , that have all the Australian attractions for tourists you could ever need.

This small town in Western Australia is most famous for its wineries. 

Margaret River and its surrounding areas produce some of Australia’s best wine, and there are plenty of vineyard tours and wine tasting opportunities.

Other things to do in Margaret River include whale watching during the winter months, hiking along the coast, exploring the limestone cliffs and caves of  Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park , or surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the ocean.

While travelling through Victoria, head to Wilson’s Promontory to enjoy some quality time with nature. 

This small peninsula on the southeast corner of Australia is full of lovely beaches and hiking trails through the bush. 

Tidal River Campground  is the main hub of the area, and from here you have easy access to some of the best walks, viewpoints, and beaches of Wilson’s Promontory. 

Hike from  Picnic Bay to Whisky Bay , walk the sands of  Squeaky Beach , and enjoy the incredible view from the peak of  Mount Oberon .

Kangaroo Island is full of striking natural beauty and plenty of interesting wildlife, making it one of the best places to go in Australia.

Located off the coast of South Australia, Kangaroo Island is an amazing day trip from Adelaide or elsewhere in the state. 

Here, you can find kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and other classic Australian animals as well as native birds, sea lions, seals, and even penguins. 

Flinders Chase National Park  in the west of the island boasts unique and rugged rock formations, including the famous  Admirals Arch . 

READ MORE: Here are more great things to do on Kangaroo Island !

For many backpackers, Byron Bay sits at the top of the bucket list for an Australia trip. 

Full of hostels, cafes, bars, art galleries, thrift shops, and more, the town of Byron Bay has a little something for everyone. 

The natural beauty of Byron Bay still manages to outshine the touristy atmosphere, making the area peaceful and beautiful. 

Hike through the bush up to the  Cape Byron Lighthouse , surf with the locals at  The Pass , or swim in the waves at  Wategos Beach . 

Another one of the best places to visit in Australia is Perth, the capital of Western Australia. 

Because it is the biggest city in the state, many travellers fly into Perth before heading out to other attractions like Esperance, Broome, or Margaret River. 

But it is worth spending some time in the city to soak in the culture. 

Perth’s best attractions include the  Kings Park and Botanic Gardens,  the  Fremantle Prison, Coogee Beach,  and the  Swan Valley wineries . Don’t miss hanging out at the best beaches either.

You can also head to the top of the massive  Bell Tower  for a panoramic view of the city, or take a day trip to Rottnest Island to spot some quokkas. 

READ MORE: Plan your trip to Perth with our city guide !

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, makes a wonderful addition to a trip around Australia. 

Full of interesting museums, cool landmarks and monuments, spacious parks and gardens, and plenty of great food, Brisbane is sure to entertain any traveller who stops by. 

Highlights of Brisbane  include strolling along the  South Bank , which fills up with street markets and twinkling lights at night and heading up to  Mount Coot-tha , which provides an excellent panoramic view over the city.

READ MORE: Add these great day trips from Brisbane to your itinerary!

Located off the coast of Queensland, K’gari (formerly known as Fraser Island ) is a great destination for camping, exploring nature, and swimming in some extremely beautiful spots. 

Lake Mckenzie  is one of the most scenic spots on K’gari (Fraser Island), as is the  Indian Head Viewpoint  and the striped cliffs of the  Cathedrals .

The easiest and most convenient way to visit K’gari (Fraser Island) is by doing a day trip from Hervey Bay or Brisbane, or you can bring your own camping gear and stay the night on the world’s largest sand island.

For anyone who wants to see breathtaking coastal scenery, and maybe catch a glimpse of a koala in its natural habitat, head to the Great Ocean Road. 

This 243-km strip of coastline in southern Victoria is packed with gorgeous beaches, charming towns, and dense forests, making it firmly on the list of best places to visit in Australia.

Some of the most famous landmarks on the road include the  Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge,  and the  Bay of Islands , all of which include intriguing jagged rock formations. Port Campbell National Park is another highlight of the route.

You can see the Great Ocean Road on a tour from Melbourne , or you can rent your own car, pack camping gear, and camp at one of the many campgrounds along the route. 

READ MORE: Explore the area with this epic Great Ocean Road drive itinerary !

As the gateway to northern Queensland, Cairns is full of backpackers and fun things to do. 

Many people just stop in Cairns for a night or two on their way to see the  Great Barrier Reef  or the  Daintree Rainforest , but it is worth spending a little time in the city to soak everything in. 

Visit  Rusty’s Fruit Market  for some fresh and cheap tropical fruits, party at one of the many backpacker hostels at night, or sunbathe at the big man-made beach known as the  Lagoon . 

During the summer months, you can’t swim in the ocean in tropical north Queensland because there may be crocodiles and jellyfish!

READ MORE: Check out these awesome things to do in Cairns !

Australia’s longest river stretches for 2508km through New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia, and going on a road trip along it takes you to some of the country’s most unique cultural towns.

The Murray River twists through mountains and valleys, sprawling farmland and forests, and is home to a whole variety of businesses and activities.

If you love wine, you’ll be heaven as the vineyards are some of the best in Australia. There’s also a lot of outdoor adventures to enjoy, like paddleboarding and kayaking.

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!

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thanks for all the information. How do you decide which Airport to fly into. I would love to plan a trip. Karijini National Park, kangaroo Island, Southern Higlands, Daintree Rainforst and The Great Ocean Rd are some of the places that interest me. I know I will not be able to see and do all of them. But trying to decide where I would fly into from the USA

Australia offers a plethora of breathtaking destinations, from the vibrant cityscapes of Sydney and Melbourne to stunning natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, and the Whitsunday Islands. The diverse landscapes, rich culture, and friendly people make it a bucket list destination for any traveler.

Australia is a beautiful country with so many places to visit! I would love to visit some of these places on my next trip!

This is really interesting, you are such a great blogger. I enjoyed your blog.

Thank you so much. We appreciate it. 🙂

Thank you so much. We appreciate it. Glad you enjoyed our blog. 🙂

Thank you so much. 🙂

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• Australia in August

Activities to do in Australia in August

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Top 10 Things to Do in Australia in August

Walk around the gold coast.

• Inland Lamington National Park's mountain peaks and valleys, which are home to endangered birds and rainforest, are crisscrossed by hiking paths. One of top vacation spots for Australians is the Gold Coast, Australia in August. 
• Australian families have been drawn to the region for many years because of its world-famous surf breaks, breathtaking beaches, theme parks, shopping, nightlife, and countryside.

Visit the Pink Lake

• Formerly the lake's water was seen to be pink, as of 2017, it hadn't happened in more than a decade. Pink Lake's pink color is dependent on salt content, and as conditions change, Pink Lake may turn pink once again and this makes it one of the best places to visit in Australia in August. 
• Despite being called Pink Lake, it only turns pink when the lake's resident algae come into contact with the proper combination of salt and sunshine. Furthermore, some of the local animals even turn pink from eating algae and other small aquatic creatures!

Explore Sydney Opera House

• Sydney Opera House, a venue for the arts, is one of the most instantly recognisable structures of this century and is named for opera, a distinctive European singing style. This stunning work of art and architecture, created by Jorn Utzon, was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2007. 
• Sydney Opera House, one of the world's top tourist destinations, welcomes more than 8.2 million visitors each year. The venue has held a number of events and performances on its grounds that cater to many styles, including music, dance, theater, and much more.
• The Sydney Opera House's recognisable design has made both the city and the nation of Australia synonymous with it. You can plan a trip to this stunning Opera House during your visit to  Australia in August and enjoy the heritage that has been part of it for years now.

Discover the Port Campbell National Park

• The 1,750-hectare national park is located 190 kilometers south-west of Melbourne and 10 kilometers east of Warrnambool and is one of the best places to visit in Australia in August . 
• The Twelve Apostles and the amazing collection of wave-sculpted rock formations in Port Campbell National Park are both well-known worldwide. 
• On quick hikes like the Port Campbell Discovery Walk, learn about the history of the Shipwreck Coast. Drive the Great Ocean Road in a beautiful manner, making stops at interesting sites.

Best of Singapore

Explore the Mount Buller

• At Mount Buller, Victoria's most accessible mountain resort, you can get away from the rush and bustle of city life and enjoy adventure and relaxation in Australia in August. 
• Mount Buller offers the best of each season, from exhilarating ski runs and tobogganing in the winter to intense mountain biking and multi-day excursions in the summer.
•  Discover every inch of Mount Buller and the breathtaking beauty in the area. Explore the well-traveled hiking trails on Mount Buller to take in the magnificent views while also getting some exercise. 
• Alternatively, go to Mt. Stirling to step things up a notch. Explore Craig's Hut and the surrounding Bindaree Falls along the designated 4WD trails or go on a tour with local horsemen through the mountains. 

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Discover Kakadu National Park

• The largest national park in Australia is home to ancient landscapes with roaring waterfalls, lush rainforests, meandering marshes, unique fauna, and prehistoric rock art. Kakadu National Park, which spans approximately 20,000 square kilometers, is listed as a World Heritage Site and is famous for both its cultural and environmental values. 
• From a Kakadu escarpment's summit, admire spectacular vistas. Travel down the breathtaking Yellow Water Billabong to see crocodiles, other wildlife, and the millions of migrating birds that partially reside in the park's wetlands to explore  Australia in August. 
• Along with being breathtaking, Kakadu also has the oldest Indigenous rock art in the world and lush jungles, steep canyons, tranquil swimming springs. The Bininj/Mungguy people have created more than 5,000 Aboriginal rock art sites in the park.

Best of New Zealand

Visit the National Gallery of Victoria

• Australia's oldest and foremost public art museum, the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), hosts some of the most prestigious exhibitions and collections of art in the world. 
• The collection includes artifacts from the pre-Columbian era, ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, as well as an oceanic gallery showcasing the Pacific region's indigenous civilizations. Nearly 16,000 worldwide prints and drawings, a notable selection of European and Asian decorative arts, and a gallery with 4000 pieces of Asian art are also included in the collection.
•  Exceptional collections of European and British paintings from the 1200s to the present day, fashion and textile displays, photography, furniture, and sculpture are also available which you can discover during your visit to Australia in August.

Best of Bali

Discover the Port Arthur

• The most authentic and moving prisoner site in Australia in August is the Port Arthur Historic Site, which is classified as part of the UNESCO World Heritage List and is 90 minutes by car from Hobart.
• You should plan on spending at least three to four hours there because there is a lot to see and do, including exploring more than 30 historic structures and ruins spread across 100 acres. Your site entry ticket is good for two days straight and grants you access to the Port Arthur Gallery, house museums, the gardens, a harbor boat, and an introductory tour. 
• You can add on additional Isle of the Dead tours to your harbor cruise or take the Escape from Port Arthur Tour to learn about the several escape attempts. With their own guide, visitors may see the site's highlights and discover Port Arthur in Australia in August.

Best of Sydney

Hike At Larapinta Trail

• Even experienced hikers will find the Larapinta Trail to be a challenging endeavor, so prepare to be physically and psychologically exhausted. Hi king is all about taking things slowly and becoming more connected to surroundings. 
• Take the time to learn about the Larapinta Trail's history, notable songlines, and the reasons why you can swim in some spots and cannot in others. It is a place of great cultural value to the Arrente people.

Best of Switzerland

Discover the Blue Mountains

• A wilderness that is part of the World Heritage list, where massive gorges are covered in eucalyptus trees and illuminated by ancient rock formations. Stunning views extend to the hazy blue horizon in this natural wonderland where waterfalls plunge into valleys covered with rainforest. 
• A place where creativity is stimulated by the abundance of nature, where charming, historic villages are tucked away beneath trees painted with the colors of the seasons. 
• Experience the wonders of Scenic World, where you can ride the glass-topped carriages of the Scenic Railway on a breath-taking journey deep into the Jamison Valley, go on a bush walk along cliff tops to breathtaking lookouts, and learn about various cultural experiences, such as ancient Aboriginal sites and contemporary street art is one of the best places to visit in Australia in August.

Best of Paris

People Also Ask About Australia

What are the best places to visit in australia in august.

• Litchfield National Park - This section of the Northern Territory only has two primary seasons, the wet and the dry as far as the usual traveler is concerned, and August falls within the dry season in Litchfield and its environs. As a result, much more of the area, as well as some extra camping places, are open and available.
• Uluru - It's crucial to make sure you travel at the best time, which is the end of August for a variety of reasons, since Uluru's seclusion is one of its most alluring aspects and among the best places to visit in Australia in August, but it also makes traveling to the rock quite an effort.
• Port Stephens - There are several reasons why Port Stephens' aquatic attractions are so well-liked. In addition to being tidy, roomy, and beautiful to explore, they are also teaming with marine life, which is especially active in August and some of its neighboring months.

What are the best things to do in Australia in August?

• Snorkel or Dive the Great Barrier Reef
• Watch sunset and sunrise at Uluru
• Road trip along the great ocean road 

Is August a good time to visit Sydney?

Which part of australia is best to visit in august, can you swim in australia in august, what are the best activity in australia that you can book via thrillophilia.

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Australia Top Attractions

The Sydney Opera House is a topmost favorite spot that tourists look forward to visiting during their Sydney trip. Located on the east of the Sydney Harbour Bridge (Port Jackson), New South Wales, Australia, the Opera House was even designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007 and it is one of the finest places to visit in Sydney.Its architecture is a fusion of modernist, and ancient influences, which attracts over 8.2 million visitors every year. The eye-grabbing roof structure that looks like a white sail-shaped shell makes it the best-known landmark. It is a multipurpose place used for various performing arts facilities.It can seat only about 1,500 people during one show to offer an exceptional experience to the audience. The 2,679-seat Concert Hall is the most abundant space here that hosts choir performances, symphony concerts, and famous music shows.You can head to the Opera Theatre to watch popular Opera, dance performances and ballet shows. Further, the building houses three different sized theaters for presenting film screenings, stage plays, and shorter musical acts.On the southeastern end of the building is the Forecourt that hosts outdoor performances. There are also a professional recording studio and restaurants in the complex. Thus, if you ever plan to take a tour of Sydney, the Sydney Opera House is worth a visit to witness impressive structure as well as performances.Click Here to Book Now: Sydney Opera House Guided TourHistory of Sydney Opera HouseThe location of the Opera House earlier used to be a railroad yard of Sydney. The tale of the Sydney Opera House started in 1948 when the Sydney Opera head beckoned for a new home for the opera company. Eugene Goossens, who was the resident conductor of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, recognized the need for a musical facility in the city. He wanted it to be home to the symphony orchestra, opera, and chamber music groups. In order to make the city identified as a world cultural capital, the New South Wales government approved his proposal. It assembled the Opera House Committee in 1954 to pick a site that further recommended Bennelong Point. A proposal request was sent to architects all across the world to submit designs for the Opera House. Finally, the design sketched out by Danish architect Jørn Utzon was declared a winner by renowned American architect Eero Saarinen. As the construction work started, people had no idea how to convert the design plan of Utzon into reality. There were political hurdles, too, during the project. The construction process slowed down certain times due to lack of funds, engineers got frustrated, and politicians doubted the idea of making the Opera House. It had a $7 million cost estimation, but actual cost rounded up to more than $100 million. So, with the proper strategies and solving the difficulties, Opera House completed in1973.Click Here to Book Now: Legoland Melbourne Tickets

The Great Barrier Reef is an individual and most extensive composition of living organisms worldwide. It is one of the most celebrated Cairns tourist attractions that is renowned for its sprawling archipelago, never-ending sea, and authentic coral reefs under the water. This place in Australia is a wonderful place to go on a vacation with your friends and family and cherish the mesmerizing scenery of the attraction. Visitors can cruise through the islands to pay a visit to the Great Barrier Reef or enjoy the tranquility of the atmosphere basking under the sun and watching the world pass by in front of their eyes.The Great Barrier Reef also allows you to take a private tour of the spectacular beauty of the coral reefs, dive underwater to discover the gorgeous marine life, and go bushwalking on Haymans island. It even has the most picturesque diving spot in the entire world, thereby offering the best skydiving experience over the Heart Reef. Besides the fun and adventurous activities, there are plenty of resorts on the island that provide a remarkable opportunity to wake up to the majestic views of the attraction. You can also savor the delicious taste of the local cuisine at the stalls lining the attraction while relishing the sight-gazing experience of the coral reefs.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge is a colossal structure which took the efforts of over 1400 workers and a time span of 8 years. The bridge was put together using over 6 million hand-driven rivets into 53,000 tonnes of steel, thus completing the construction of the world's largest steel arch Bridge. A unique fact about this bridge is that it is continuously being painted mostly to protect it from outer elements and due to its humongous size by the time the painting is done it is time to start over and this cycle is unending. The steel arch of the Bridge actually changes in size; sometimes up-to 18 cm change in its height can be seen. The Bridge's workers and caretakers once included the famous Australian Actor Paul Hogan as a rigger and his job was to erect platforms so the painters could come. The arch of the Bridge is open to climbing and has had over 3 million visitors since 1998 that came for this adventurous trip. The view from the top of the arch is mesmerizing and unbeatable. Approximately 80 % of the steel used in the bridge was actually imported from the United Kingdom and this means that the steel has traveled halfway across the world to make this bridge. History of Harbour BridgeThe plans for building this bridge were proposed originally in 1815 by Francis Greenway to Governor Lachlan Macquarie. He even wrote a letter to an Australian newspaper in 1825, elaborating on the need for a bridge to connect the two sides of the harbor. Though his idea remained in public memory, it did not end up being executed.In 1840, Robert Brindley, who was a naval architect, proposed a floating bridge, and in 1857 Engineer Peter Henderson ended up designing one of the first drawings. Finally, John Bradfield, who is now known as the father of the bridge, became the "Chief Engineer of Sydney Harbour Bridge and Metropolitan Railway Construction" in 1914. Initially, he had proposed a suspension bridge at the location, but later after visiting New York due to the First World War, and got inspired by the architecture and decided to build an arch bridge instead. This construction too was delayed, and finally took place between 1923 and 1932 when the bridge finally opened for the public. Checkout and Book Now: Sydney Harbour Cruise

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When is the best time to visit Australia? The highlights of every season

Australia is an all-year-round travel destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience. With its varying climates and regions, Australia’s seasons offer a little something for everyone – from beach lovers to city explorers and even snow enthusiasts. To help you plan your visit, here’s a breakdown of the best times to visit Australia. 

Summer (December-February): High season for beaches and festivals

Australia’s summer is peak tourist season, especially for coastal cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. This is when locals and visitors alike flock to the beaches, and festivals and events are in full swing. Think Sydney’s New Year’s Eve fireworks, Melbourne’s Australian Open , and endless sunshine along the Gold Coast.

However, as summer is the high season, expect higher prices for flights and accommodations, as well as more crowds at major attractions. The weather is warm, with temperatures ranging from 68-85°F, making it ideal for those who love warm, sunny beach days.

Keep in mind that northern Australia (Queensland, Northern Territory) experiences its wet season during summer, which means high humidity, rain, and potential cyclones. It’s not the best time to visit places like Cairns or Darwin.

Best for: Beach lovers, festival-goers, and city explorers.

Travel season: High season – expect higher prices and crowds, especially in coastal cities.

Autumn (March-May): Shoulder season for wine, wildlife, and fewer crowds

Autumn in Australia is a bit of a hidden gem. The summer crowds have dissipated, and the weather is more moderate – perfect for exploring without the sweat! This is the ideal season to visit wine regions like the Barossa Valley or Yarra Valley, where you can enjoy vineyard tours, wine tastings, and beautiful autumn scenery.

This time of year is also great for wildlife enthusiasts. You can head to Kangaroo Island to see native animals like kangaroos and koalas or visit Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia to swim with whale sharks starting in March.

Being a shoulder season, autumn offers the best of both worlds: comfortable weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices on flights and hotels compared to summer.

Best for: Wine lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers.

Travel season: Shoulder season – great for lower prices and fewer crowds.

Winter (June-August): Low season in the south, high season in the north

Yes, Australia has a winter – and it can be quite cold in the southern regions like Melbourne, Tasmania, and the Blue Mountains. Winter brings cool temperatures, with daytime highs around 50-60°F, making it a quieter time to visit these areas. For travelers who prefer fewer crowds, this is the low season for southern Australia, which means great deals on accommodations.

If you’re a skier or snowboarder, the Snowy Mountains are the place to be in winter, with ski resorts in full swing.

On the flip side, if you’re more into tropical escapes, northern Australia (Queensland, Northern Territory) experiences its high season in winter as the dry season begins. The weather in places like Cairns, Darwin, and the Great Barrier Reef is warm, sunny, and perfect for outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and hiking.

Best for: Skiers, tropical adventurers, and city explorers.

Travel season:  

• Low season in the south – ideal for avoiding crowds and getting good deals.
• High season in the north – expect beautiful weather but higher prices.

Spring (September-November): Shoulder season for outdoor adventures

Spring is one of the best times to visit Australia, offering warm weather, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds. This is a shoulder season, meaning you’ll still get good deals on flights and accommodations, but without the extreme summer heat or winter cold.

If you love outdoor adventures, now’s the time to hit the hiking trails in places like the Grampians, Blue Mountains, or Tasmania. Whale watching is also popular along the coast during spring, and wildflowers are in full bloom, especially in western Australia, where the landscapes transform into carpets of color.

Spring is also great for road trips – whether you’re driving along the Great Ocean Road or exploring outback regions like the Flinders Ranges in South Australia.

Best for: Road trippers, nature lovers, and hikers.

Travel season: Shoulder season  – fewer crowds, good weather, and reasonable prices.

So, when is the best time to visit Australia?

With such a diverse landscape and range of experiences, there’s no “bad” time to visit Australia. However, knowing the travel seasons can help you decide when to plan your trip based on your preferences and budget.

• For beach days and festivals: Visit during the high season in summer, but be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
• For wine tasting, wildlife, and fewer tourists: The shoulder seasons of autumn and spring offer great weather and good deals.
• For skiing or tropical escapes: Winter brings the low season in the south but the high season in the north, depending on where you go.
• For road trips and wildflowers: Spring is the ideal shoulder season for exploring the countryside with fewer crowds.

The post When is the best time to visit Australia? The highlights of every season appeared first on The Manual .

Best places to travel in August in Australia

Plus, a surprise destination for anyone looking to spread their wings..

In this guide

1. Best family-friendly destination: Gold Coast

2. best for sun: darwin, 3. best for romance: hamilton island, 4. best budget destination: byron bay, 5. best for snow: snowy mountains, 6. best for events: melbourne, top august events, when's the best time in august to take a holiday, latest travel deals.

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August is the heart of winter and calls for action filled snow escapes and cosy romantic getaways.

Even if you're not a fan of the cold there are hot destinations around the country that can warm you up and see you through the worst of it.

Soak up that sunshine and let the kids loose in the local theme parks.

The school holidays might be over but if you're searching for a local break that won't take up more than a weekend, the Gold Coast is where it's at. From blissful beaches to amusement parks to cater to any age and interest, this one's a no brainer really.

• August weather: 20–23℃, winter
• Best for: Beaches, short breaks, theme parks
• Things to do: Hike Lamington National Park , watch Australian Outback Spectacular's Heartland show and go on a fishing expedition .

Book your hotel Book your flights

The sun shines brighty in the NT over winter.

This is one for the sun worshippers, the adventure seekers and those looking for a more remote getaway. Darwin is the gateway to action-packed outdoor adventures. Spend a day (or 2, or 3) in Kakadu, Nitmulik National Park (Katherine Gorge)and Litchfield National Parks. Or, hop over to the Tiwi Islands to learn about this rich Aboriginal community.

• August weather: 32–35℃, winter/dry season
• Best for: Outback adventure and culture
• Things to do: Tour the land by airboat , fly over Litchfield National Park and have a close encounter with a croc at Crocosaurus Cove .

Like heaven on earth.

Hamilton Island is a paradise off the coast of Queensland. On it you'll discover soft sand beaches, endless ocean views, top notch seafood and romantic bungalows. A boat ride away is the Great Barrier Reef and Whitehaven Beach which has been called the best beach in the world. August is an eventful one with Hamilton Island Race week drawing in a crowd. If that's not your style avoid 15-22 August for relaxation unparalleled.

• August weather: 22–25℃, winter
• Best for: Couples and families
• Things to do: For the ultimate show take a seaplane ride over the Great Barrier Reef and Whitehaven , snorkel the Great Barrier Reef and spend time blissing out on Whitehaven Beach.

The sun's still up and shining in this coastal town.

A popular destination for hipsters, hippies and beach bums over summer, Byron gets quiet in August making it a steal for budget vacations. The weather's not too bad either, running in the low 20s. It's not hot enough for sunbaking but if you've got a board you can still hit the surf. Otherwise there's a sleepy town to unwind in and coastal walks to get stuck into.

• August weather: 20℃, winter
• Best for: Water sports and relaxation
• Things to do: Surfing , whale watching and horseriding .

Snow season is in full swing, so you'd better catch that powder while it's fresh.

Perisher and Jindabyne in the Snowy Mountains are 2 of the most accessible snow resorts in New South Wales. July to August is peak season, so while prices may still be high, you have a greater chance of nabbing that precious powder.

As the school holidays have ended by August, you'll find the crowds thinning.

• August weather: 7-13℃, winter
• Best for: Snow sports, apres ski
• Things to do: Ski or snowboard and check out the Winter Dinner Series.

Enough festivals and musicals to tide you over until summer.

Melbourne takes centre stage as the hub to gravitate towards in August for culture, festivals and celebration.

More than a handful of events occur throughout the city in August/September including White Night, Melbourne International Film Festival and Melbourne Writers Festival.

Whatever your artistic interests, they're bound to be met in Melbourne this month.

• August weather: 14–18℃, winter
• Best for: Culture, arts and entertainment
• Things to do: Tour the Great Ocean Road , visit SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium and have high tea on the Yarra .

Search for your August getaway

• Truffle Festival: Winter is the truffle festival season in Australia's Canberra Region. It's a time filled with truffle-tastic events including truffle hunting and truffle-inspired meals in outstanding restaurants.
• Hamilton Island Race Week: August is peak season on Hamilton Island for 1 reason: Race Week. It's a regatta that sees competitiors the world over line the island's shores to sail for the glory.
• Sydney Science Festival: Clue yourself into the latest as leading experts, academics and researchers take to the stage in talks, workshops and symposiums. Free and ticketed events available.

For Australians, August is one of the quietest travel months of the year and is a great time to holiday on the cheap whichever dates you choose. This is because the winter school holidays have come to a close and there is only one public holiday in the month across the nation, which is Picnic Day in Northern Territory.

However, prices do surge at ski resorts as August is peak snow season.

To avoid inflated prices and crowds to these locations, travel during the week or closer to the end of the month when the season starts to wind down.

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Stephanie Yip

Stephanie Yip was the travel editor at Finder and has been writing about travel and lifestyle for over a decade. She has written for a range of travel publications including Thomas Cook Magazine and Showpo. Stephanie has a Bachelor of Communications from the University of Technology Sydney, Australia, and has visited over 50 countries (and counting). She has a passion for sharing her experiences and knowledge of travel and helping consumers stretch their travel cash while on holiday. See full bio

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Australia in August: A Complete Guide for Your Next Australian Adventure!

A vacation to Australia in August is something you’ll never forget. Experience each kind of weather, including sunny beaches and snow-capped mountains. Begin your adventure in the tropical north, where the Great Barrier Reef beckons you to go exploring, given the mild weather. Head on to bustling cities like Melbourne and Sydney, which are home to famous landmarks and cultural events. Discover the cooler south with its picturesque roads and cosy cafes. Don’t miss out on some winter skiing in the Australian Alps. The unique fauna and natural splendour of Kangaroo Island will captivate wildlife enthusiasts. August in Australia is a great month to visit, with exciting outdoor activities and relaxed wine tastings to suit all tastes. Get ready to visit Australia in a month filled with adventure, discovery, and priceless memories. Your trip to Australia in August is guaranteed to be fun with Pickyourtrail Australia tour packages .

Weather in Australia in August

Australia provides a lovely winter getaway in August, with a broad range of temperature levels. Enjoy bright, appealing days in the north, with temperatures of about 25 °C. It is ideal for exploring the Great Barrier Reef. The average temperature will drop to 10 °C as you move south. Sydney’s winter temperatures, which are usually around 15°C, are perfect for sightseeing. Melbourne’s cool mornings, normally at 13°C, and its quaint cafes are an absolute highlight. For those who enjoy skiing, Australia in August also means snow in the Australian Alps. Enjoy a unique winter experience as you transition from tropical to temperate climates. This is the finest time of year to see wildlife in Kakadu National Park. Visiting Australia in August has something for everyone, whether your preference is for mountains, cities, or beaches. Check out Pickyourtrail’s delightful Australia packages!

Places to Visit in Australia in August

• Melbourne’s Laneways
• Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain
• Canberra’s National Gallery of Australia
• Perth’s Kings Park

1. Melbourne’s Laneways

Find hidden treasures by exploring Melbourne’s laneways in August. Take in bright street art, interesting shops, and cosy cafes. Walking is ideal in the cool weather. Some of the best urban art in the world is probably found on the renowned Hosier Lane.

Also Read: 10 Best Things to Do in Melbourne: Dive into the Best of Australia’s Cultural Capital

2. Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain

Trek the Cradle Mountain in Tasmania in winter during August. See snowy mountain chains and crystal-clear lakes. The Dove Lake Circuit makes it worthwhile to capture beautiful photographs. Observe rare wild animals, including wombats and Tasmanian devils, in their natural environment. It is more enjoyable because the air is fresh and cool.

3. Gold Coast

For clear skies and a comfortable climate, visit the Gold Coast in August. Explore the well-known beaches and surf spots. For family-friendly entertainment, visit theme parks like Sea World and Dreamworld. Wander around lively neighbourhoods such as Surfers Paradise. The nightlife and food options are exceptional.

4. Canberra’s National Gallery of Australia

Go for a cultural experience at the National Gallery of Australia in Canberra. See stunning Australian and international artworks Throughout August, don’t miss special exhibitions and events. The gallery’s appealing architecture and calming environment are perfect for a visit. This makes it suitable to be done indoors, especially on cooler days.

5. Perth’s Kings Park

Take a walk at Kings Park in Perth in the month of August and be ready to be awe-struck by the beautiful view of the city skyline. Check out the various flora and pretty gardens. Take a pleasant walk around the Botanic Garden and explore the various walking paths. The weather is ideal for picnicking and taking a stroll. The park is ideal for relaxation.

Things to Do in Australia in August

• Skiing in the Australian Alps
• Touring Melbourne’s Coffee Culture
• Stargazing in Uluru
• Exploring the Daintree Rainforest
• Wine Tasting in Barossa Valley

1. Skiing in the Australian Alps

August offers ideal conditions for skiing in the Australian Alps. Experience a variety of slopes that are ideal for all skill levels. Enjoy après-ski adventures and cosy mountain cabins. The beautiful landscapes of mountains and the cool winter air make the journey even more wonderful.

2. Touring Melbourne’s Coffee Culture

Check out Melbourne’s most popular cafes in August and enjoy the city’s coffee culture. Relish the hot and fresh-brewed coffee and special flavors. Visit a coffee tour guide that covers the history of coffee in Melbourne. It is delightful to have a hot cup of coffee when the weather is cold. That is something that every coffee lover must do.

3. Stargazing in Uluru

Uluru is a great place to stargaze in August, when clear skies offer the most stunning exhibit of stars. Learn about Aboriginal astronomy and constellations by taking a guided tour. Soak in the breathtaking view of the sacred rock elevated at night. The colder, dry weather offers ideal viewing chances. This experience is both enlightening and amazing.

Also Read: 15 Australian Foods to Give a Try on Your Trip

4. Exploring the Daintree Rainforest

Go on a nature tour of the Daintree Rainforest in August, which is the oldest tropical rainforest in the world. You can take a guided tour to experience its abundance of flora and fauna. Take nature strolls and view exotic animal species. This makes it a perfect spot to visit since the weather is relatively cooler and dry as compared to other seasons. It is an ideal place for those who enjoy nature’s beauty.

5. Wine Tasting in Barossa Valley

Wine tasting in Barossa Valley in August is a delightful experience. Taste wines from across the world at renowned wineries. Enjoy seamlessly guided vineyard tours with expert guides. Pair your wine with delectable, fresh produce. For those who enjoy wine, the experience is perfect because of the gorgeous surroundings and the milder climate.

Events and Festivals to Attend in Australia in August

• Darwin Festival
• Ekka in Brisbane
• Cairns Indigenous Art Fair
• Hamilton Island Race Week

1. Darwin Festival

Experience a lively festival of arts and culture in August by going to the Darwin Festival. Enjoy watching performances of dance, theatre, and music onstage. Explore exhibitions and artworks outdoors. The nights are warm and tropical, adding to the festive vibe. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn about Darwin’s creative and broad population.

Also Read: Visit The Top 4 Rainforests In Australia

2. Ekka in Brisbane

The largest annual agricultural exhibition in Queensland, Ekka, is held in Brisbane. Experience exhilarating rides, live performances, and exhibits featuring animals. Savour mouthwatering cuisine and try fresh vegetables from the region. Take in the thrill of the famous fireworks show. There is something for everyone at this family-friendly festival.

3. Cairns Indigenous Art Fair

Discover the art of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people at the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair in August. Appreciate performances, workshops, and displays. Understand details about the cultural background of gifted artists. The colourful celebration honours the artistry and traditions of the indigenous people. It’s an extraordinary cultural experience.

4. Hamilton Island Race Week

Indulge in the world’s greatest sailing event, Hamilton Island Race Week. The Whitsundays host spectacular yacht races. Appreciate exquisite cuisine, beach parties, and live performances. The mood is even more joyful with the breathtaking island backdrop. Sailing fans will find this to be an exciting and exquisite event.

FAQ’s for A Memorable Getaway to Australia in August

Indulge in wine tastings, wildlife expeditions, bright festival visits, and explorations of the Great Barrier Reef. August offers a variety of activities.

Enjoy a stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden, visit the Opera House , participate in the Vivid Festival, and experience Sydney’s nightlife and beaches.

August in Perth is cold and pleasant, with temperatures between 10°C and 20°C and occasional instances of rain. It’s ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Yes, August brings a variety of climates, vibrant festivals, and perfect settings for experiencing Australia’s cities, beaches, and natural landmarks.

Winter arrives in August in Australia, with pleasant to cold weather that is ideal for adventures outdoors and city exploration.

Yes, there is snow falling in the Australian Alps in August, which makes for incredible snowboarding and skiing conditions in locations like Perisher and Thredbo.

Excited to start your Australian adventure in August? Head over to Pickyourtrail to grab some of the best Australia holiday packages to elevate your vacation experience to the next level. Explore the land’s serene beaches, lush greenery, and diverse cultural activities. Traveling to Australia in August promises you an unforgettable escape from the tropical climate found across the globe. Enjoy the pleasant, cool weather and indulge in skiing in the Australian Alps for an otherworldly experience. So grab your sweaters and set off on a delightful getaway to Australia in August!

Checkout Other Articles Related to Australia

Australia in January  |  Australia in February  | Australia in March |  Australia in April  |  Australia in May  |  Australia in June  |  Australia in July  |  Australia in September  |  Australia in October  |  Australia in November  |  Australia in December

27 Posts Published.

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Best places to visit in australia and the pacific.

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.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

K'gari (Fraser Island)

Port Douglas

Kakadu National Park

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50 Of The Best Places To Visit In Australia Right Now

By Jessica Best

26th Aug 2024

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 this year.

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. 

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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.

Image credit: Ben Carless | Unsplash

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30 of the Most Iconic Places to Visit in Australia

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: July 30, 2024

Australia is huge! Seeing it all in one trip probably won’t happen for most people. If you are like us, you’ll have to go back again and again. These iconic places to visit in Australia might help you know where to start when you travel next to the land down under. 

Table of Contents

The Best Places to Visit in Australia

When you plan your trip, you must choose what you want to see and where you want to go. If you do have the time to drive around the continent, spending a year or so in a campervan , you may be able to check off all the iconic places to see in Australia that cannot be missed.

It may be the world’s smallest continent, but it’s ranked number 6 in the world by country size. So take your time, enjoy the ride, and check out all the amazing things to see in Australia. From Dreamtime walks to the heavenly apostles, the landmarks of Australia are awe-inspiring.

1. Great Barrier Reef

It may be Australia’s most famous attraction but with good reason! The Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven wonders of the natural world.

Stretching 3000 km across the coast of Queensland, the Great Barrier Reef is a diver’s dream. Whether you are an avid scuba diver , casual snorkeller, or first-time underwater newbie, there is something for everyone at this popular tourist destination.

You don’t need to go scuba diving to enjoy the Great Barrier Reef. A scenic flight is a spectacular way to see the wonder of the world. You can go snorkeling or swimming on one of the platforms in the ocean and you can even take a discovery dive.

You can book a liveaboard dive boat vacation to go out to the most remote dive sites of the reef, take a helicopter tour over the impressive waters, or try your hand at diving with a helmet. One of our favorite experiences.

2. Daintree Rainforest

Located in Queensland , the Daintree Rainforest is the world’s oldest tropical rainforest and one of Australia’s natural wonders. At 180 million years old, it covers 1200 square km, and visitors can take a Dreamtime walk with an Indigenous guide from the Kuku Yalanji Tribe.

Stay in the rainforest at Silky Oak Lodge and relax in your treehouse listening to the sounds of the ancient forest. You can also do some paddleboarding on the Mossman River. Don’t worry, the local saltwater crocodiles don’t come that far inland.

This rainforest is filled with beauty with waterfalls, plenty of hiking trails and outdoor activities.

• Fun Fact : Daintree Rainforest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is twice as old as the Amazon Rainforest

3. Fraser Island

Fraser Island , the world’s largest sand island, is one of the coolest Australian places to visit in Australia because of its 75-mile-long beach! It’s one of the longest beaches in the world. Rent a four-wheel drive truck in the town of Noosa and start your adventure to one of the wildest drives you’ll ever have. It’s an island with sand dunes, dingos, tidal pools, and shipwrecks.

Oh and one more thing, drivers share the beach with airplanes! Yes, there is an airport right on the sandy shores. The white sand beaches of this island will take your breath away as you drive its coastline. There are hotels and resorts that you can book on the island to spend more time exploring. Read all about our trip at Fraser Island Tour – A 4X4 Adventure

4. Whitsundays

The Whitsundays are a group of 75 islands off the coast of Queensland. When visiting the Great Barrier Reef, you must spend some time here. These islands are located right in the heart of it! Beautiful white sandy beaches swirl effortlessly with the turquoise water.

There are luxury resorts, sailing and snorkeling. A must stop is the largest and most famous of all the islands, Whitehaven Beach with pristine white sands made of silica beads stretching for 7km. Because this sand is made up of silica, it doesn’t get too hot making it the perfect beach for a walk.

5. Port Douglas

Port Douglas is a laid-back resort town in Queensland’s Tropical North. It’s the jumping off point for visiting the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest making it the perfect spot to spend a few days relaxing and exploring the beauty of Australia. Located along Australia’s most scenic coast, a road trip to Port Douglas is a must. See our scenic flight from Port Douglas over the Great Barrier Reef.

Known as the gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is located about 1,700 kilometers north of Brisbane. Cairns is surrounded by incredible natural attractions, making it a prime destination for nature lovers. Cairns enjoys a tropical climate and is nestled between the Coral Sea and the rainforests of the Wet Tropics, offering a unique blend of marine and terrestrial attractions.

As a destination, Cairns offers a multitude of reasons for tourists to visit. As well as its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef — a must-visit for snorkelers, divers, and marine life enthusiasts — Cairns also provides easy access to the Daintree Rainforest. You can take a scenic railway journey to the village of Kuranda, experience indigenous culture at the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, or simply enjoy Cairns’ excellent restaurants, bustling markets, and lively nightlife. The city’s Esplanade, with its saltwater swimming lagoon and waterfront boardwalk, is another major drawcard.

7. Gold Coast

Home to the world-famous Surfer’s Paradise, the Gold Coast of Australia offers an endless stretch of beach with outstanding surf breaks. Highrise resorts and condos line the sand while beachgoers enjoy the many eateries and dining options.

You can enjoy surf lessons or you can simply rent a bike and ride to Currumbin Beach and Burleigh Head to watch the pro surfers catch a wave. For a great view, go to the Skypoint Observation Deck to take it all in from above.

8. Twelve Apostles

The Great Ocean Road is one of the most popular day trips from Melbourne. A Drive to the coast takes you to the incredible Twelve Apostles .

For us, the Twelve Apostles were the most awe-inspiring of places to visit in Australia. But to really experience this rugged coast, you must do the Great Ocean Walk. It takes you along the coastal route that is impossible to see from a car. If you can, make sure to take a helicopter ride over the Apostles to really take in its beauty.

9. Melbourne

Melbourne is quite possibly the coolest city in Australia. I know it was our favorite . It has been named the most livable city in the world, and it’s a great place for tourists too! Highlights include Queen Victoria Market, The Arcades and Secret Lanes, Eureka Square, Federation Skydeck and Graffiti Lane.

South Australia

10. kangaroo island.

Kangaroo Island is located off the coast of South Australia and is an incredible place in Australia to tour for a few days. It is a spectacular wildlife haven for kangaroos, koalas, sea lions, seals, and pelicans. There is even a Birds of Prey rehabilitation center where you can watch a show and learn about birds that are indigenous to the continent.

The landscape is beautiful here and at sunset, you must see the Remarkables; granite boulders have been sculpted into unique formations over 500 million years. Kangaroo Island is also home to what is considered by many as the best beach in Australia.

11. Wilpena Pound

Wilpena Pound is a giant 80 Square kilometer amphitheater of rock that is simply astounding. Located in the Flinders Ranges of South Australia, it’s a 450 km drive from Adelaide. A good place to stay is inside the National Park, which is set within the backdrop of the mountains. Flinders Ranges is 100 million years old, and a tour of the ancient landscape is truly fascinating.

It is also one of the best places in Australia to spy the endangered yellow-footed rock wallaby. Check out our visit to the Flinders Ranges and Wilpena Pound .

12. Barossa Valley

Barossa Valley is home to Australia’s most famous vineyards. Here you can visit wineries such as Wolf Blass, Lehmann and Penfolds just to name a few. A tour through the valley will take you through gorgeous countryside and it is best to hire a driver so you can truly experience all the wines of Barossa. Located an hour outside Adelaide, it is a beautiful region in which to spend a few days.

South Australia boasts many Australia’s best wine regions outside of the Barossa Valley including, MaLaren Vale, Adelaide Hills and Clare Valley.

13. Burra Homestead

Made famous by Midnight Oil’s record album cover Diesel and Dust, the Burra Homestead has become an iconic stop for photographers in Australia. The homestead was abandoned by homesteaders years ago and still stands alone and empty by the side of the road. It’s easy to miss, and we made quite the detour just to see it. Being huge fans of music, we just had to see this with our own eyes.

14. Lake Gairdner

Lake Gairdner is a Salt Lake in the Gawler Ranges of South Australia. It feels as if you have stepped on another planet when you visit the lake. The lake itself is an impressive sprawl of white landscape but being surrounded by the red hills of the Gawler Ranges make for the picture-perfect spot.

New South Wales

15. sydney opera house.

It’s definitely Australia’s most iconic building, and seeing the Sydney Opera House dominate the Sydney Skyline does not disappoint. The Sydney Opera House opened in 1973 and has become Australia’s top tourist attraction.

We never went inside the opera house when visiting Sydney, but walking around it and taking in the views from the waterfront will remind you why this is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world.

• Side Note : I hear they are fixing the acoustics of the Opera House, so perhaps when we are back in Sydney, we’ll catch a concert.

16. Blue Mountains

Located just 50km (32 miles) from Sydney, the Blue Mountains are another famous view that attracts numerous visitors. The Three Sisters are the most iconic view of the Blue Mountains. Echo Point lookout offers an impressive view of the three sisters overlooking the Jamison Valley.

17. Sydney Harbour Bridge

Next to the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is another of the city’s iconic landmarks. It connects the CBD to the North Shore and is the biggest steel bridge in the world.

If you really want a thrill, you should do the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb. We ended up doing the Harbour Bridge Climb in Brisbane which was awesome, but I wish we mustered up enough energy to include Sydney’s Bridge too!

18. Bondi Beach

No visit to Australia would be complete without a stop at Bondi Beach. Located just 7km from Sydney’s central business district, it is one of Australia’s most iconic and celebrated beaches.

The beach itself, with its golden sands and turquoise waters, is an irresistible attraction. Known for its reliable surf, Bondi Beach draws surfers from around the globe, while the wide sandy stretch also provides ample space for sunbathing, beach volleyball, or simply enjoying the ocean view. The Bondi Icebergs Pool, a stunning ocean pool at the southern end of the beach, offers a unique swimming experience, with the waves of the Pacific Ocean crashing over its sides.

Bondi Beach isn’t just about sand and surf; it’s also a hub for dining and shopping. Campbell Parade, the main street running parallel to the beach, is lined with trendy cafes, award-winning restaurants, and boutique stores. The beach is also the starting point for the scenic Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, which takes in some of Sydney’s most stunning ocean views.

19. Byron Bay

Nestled on the northeastern coast of northern New South Wales, Byron Bay artfully combines natural beauty with its laid-back culture. The Northern Rivers region, which includes Byron Bay, offers a variety of attractions, from stunning coastal views to charming inland villages. The town’s location, just about 800 kilometers north of Sydney and 170 kilometers south of Brisbane, Byron Bay is easily accessible from the major city centers. Framed by pristine, golden-sand beaches and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, Byron Bay’s geography is spectacular.

Byron Bay isn’t just renowned for its captivating landscapes, if you’re an outdoor lover you can surf the world-class breaks, kayak with dolphins, or embark on a trek to the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse for a panoramic view of the bay.

The Outback

20. south, west, north, and east australia.

The Outback covers a huge expanse of Australia touching nearly every state of the country. When visiting Australia, you cannot miss a trip to the Outback. We took a multi-day journey in South Australia with Gawler Ranges Wilderness Safaris and had the chance to truly experience all the wonders of Australia’s famous Outback.

From salt lakes to red sands and rock formations, you truly feel like a pioneer. While it is dry and arid, people do live on the Outback and there are homesteaders raising sheep among the kangaroos and emus.

Northern Territory

21. uluru-kata tjuta national parks.

One of the most famous sites of the Outback is Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock) near Alice Springs. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Uluru is sacred to the indigenous people of the area. Standing 348 meters high, it is an imposing site in contrast to the flat desert landscape. Spanning 3 1/2 km long and nearly 2 km wide, it is a popular stop on overland tours.

22. Kata Tjuta

The massive sandstone domes of Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) are particularly striking, rising majestically from the flat desert landscape and changing hues with the passing of the day. The park offers numerous walking trails, ranging from leisurely walks to challenging hikes, that give visitors the opportunity to explore these wonders up close and experience the area’s rich biodiversity.

The cultural tours led by the Anangu guides provide deep insights into the ancient traditions, stories, and customs associated with these sacred sites, making a visit to the park a truly enriching experience.

23. Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Top End region of the Northern Territory. Roughly 170 kilometers southeast of Darwin, the park covers an impressive area of around 20,000 square kilometers, making it the largest national park in Australia and about half the size of Switzerland.

The park is known for its diverse landscapes that range from wetlands and floodplains, to rugged escarpments and arid regions, creating a haven for a wide variety of wildlife. It’s home to over 280 bird species, numerous reptiles, and a large variety of fish.

Kakadu is also rich in Aboriginal culture, with rock art sites dating back thousands of years. Ubirr and Nourlangie are among the most visited rock art sites, where visitors can learn about the ancient indigenous culture and the spiritual connection to the land.

There are numerous guided tours available to explore the park and many walking trails that range from easy strolls to challenging hikes. One can also take a scenic flight over the park or a river cruise to witness its grandeur from different perspectives.

Perched at the top end of Australia’s Northern Territory, Darwin is a captivating blend of modernity and untamed wilderness. This cosmopolitan city, strategically located on the Timor Sea offers the chance to immerse in indigenous culture and heritage. Nature lovers will be drawn to the city’s proximity to world-renowned national parks like Kakadu and Litchfield, which are brimming with diverse wildlife, stunning waterfalls, and dramatic landscapes.

For those in search of adventure, there’s an array of activities including cruising along the Mary River wetlands to spot saltwater crocodiles. And history buffs will be interested in diving into the city’s turbulent history at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory.

Western Australia

25. hamelin bay stingrays.

According to Mr. and Mrs. Bucketlist, there is no better place to see stingrays than in Hamelin Bay. Located in the Margaret River Region, local stingrays frequent these waters to feed off local fishermen. The stingrays are so friendly, you can snorkel with them.

Plus, Hamelin Bay is picture perfect, so it’s a beautiful place to spend some time. Read about all the wildlife encounters you can have in Western Australia here  by Mr. and Mrs. Bucketlist

26. Pinnacles

If you are into unique landscapes, a visit to the Pinnacles of Nambung National Park is in order. Located about 200km from Western Australia’s capital, Perth, the Pinnacles are another one of those fascinating places to see in Australia.

The formations range to from heights of short stumps to pillars reaching 3 metres high, the Pinnacles are ancient formations formed when the landscape was underwater.

27. Cable Beach

Cable Beach is that place where you’ve seen all those images of camels walking in silhouette at sunset but probably never knew where it was. It isn’t Australia’s longest beach, but at 22km in length, it is nothing to sneeze at.

There are many tour companies that offer camel rides along the beach at sunset. Camels arrived in Australia from India in the 1800s to transport gear overland. The harsh Australian landscape proved to be a better environment for camels than horses and they helped shape the history of the continent.

28. Kimberly Region

The Kimberley region is one of Australia’s hidden treasures, located in the remote northern part of Western Australia. Another must-visit in Western Australia is the Great Sandy National Park, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. This vast, rugged wilderness area spans over 420,000 square kilometers, stretching from Broome in the west to Kununurra and Lake Argyle in the east, and from the Timor Sea in the north to the Great Sandy and Tanami deserts in the south.

The Kimberley is an adventurer’s dream, offering a wealth of unique and exhilarating experiences. It’s known for its breathtaking landscapes, ranging from dramatic gorges and waterfalls to ancient rock formations and lush rainforests. One of the region’s most iconic destinations is the Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park is known for its striking beehive-shaped towers. For those seeking aquatic adventures, there’s the opportunity to cruise the stunning Horizontal Falls or explore the bucolic waterways of the Ord River. The Kimberley is also steeped in indigenous history, with numerous sacred Aboriginal sites and some of the oldest rock art in the world.

29. Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island, affectionately known as “Rotto”, is a small island located just off the coast of Western Australia, about 19 kilometers west of Fremantle. It is easily accessible by a short ferry ride from Perth, the state’s capital, and serves as a popular holiday destination for locals and international tourists alike.

The island is renowned for its beautiful beaches and secluded coves, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. With its vehicle-free policy, cycling is a popular way to explore the island’s scenic paths and trails. One of the island’s most famous residents is the quokka, a small marsupial found only in Western Australia. These adorable creatures are known for their friendly demeanor and photogenic smiles.

30. Wine Glass Bay

We haven’t been to Tasmania yet, but you cannot include an Australia Guide without mentioning Tasmania. We nearly went once two years ago and did a lot of research of top places to see in Tasmania. From Cradle Mountain to Hastings Caves and a chance to spy the Tasmanian Devil, it seems like the perfect off the beaten path destination.

We’ve had so many friends share their favourite places on Instagram, and the one place the stands out to us is Wine Glass Bay. We’re suckers for beautiful beaches.

The Last Word

And there you have it! A list of the most amazing places to visit in Australia as well as a few we have yet to explore, but have been on our list for years!

Like Canada, India, China and The United States and Russia, Australia is massive and you cannot see it all in a lifetime, but it is certainly fun to try!

Read More About Australia:

• The Best of Kangaroo Island
• G’Day Outrageous Australian Stereotypes Debunked
• Where to Stay in Melbourne a Guide to the Best Neighbourhoods
• See our Full Australia Travel Guide for Travel Tips and Advice

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

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27 thoughts on “30 of the Most Iconic Places to Visit in Australia”

This engaging blog article from The Planet D showcases some of the best places to visit in Australia, providing an enticing glimpse into the country’s diverse landscapes and attractions. As an experienced traveler with a passion for exploring new destinations, I found this article to be both informative and inspiring. The authors’ firsthand experiences and stunning photography bring each location to life, offering valuable insights and practical tips for planning an unforgettable Australian adventure. From the bustling cities of Sydney and Melbourne to the remote beauty of the Outback and the pristine beaches of the Whitsunday Islands, this comprehensive guide caters to every traveler’s interests and preferences. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or tranquil escapes, this article serves as a valuable resource for planning your next trip to Australia.

Love seeing some of my favourite Western Australian locations included in this list! A day trip to Rottnest Island should be on everyone’s bucket list when visiting Perth especially.

Thank you for what you have shared with me. As an avid traveler, reading these tips will give you ideas for your upcoming trip to beautiful Australia.

Thanks for providing such a great post

Your work impress me to visit in Australia, I hope one day! Thanks a lot.

Great Country, with a big and beautiful city and yet also has this scenic view also. We have more options to go to Australia because we are of this beautiful scenery and also what you can get in the city. Thanks for sharing incredible posts that only a few know.

Wonderful word and amazing suff

I think that Australia is really a beautiful place to have your self-relaxed and just get lost in the beauty of nature. It is definitely on my bucket list.

Great cross section of the best places to see in Australia. Really relate to 7. Twelve Apostles! We drove a BMW 240i convertible (with the roof down) along the Great Ocean Road late last year. It’s a great way to experience this beautiful part of Australia.

I love this so much! I’m from Australia and always try to tell people that you’ll find the real beauty outside of the cities and these places are exactly what I mean. Cable beach is probably my favourite place on Earth and I love how you put the pinnacles in there too. This was a great read and 100% agree with everything said in it

Very iconic! Australia really one of the best country to travel because of it wonderful sites that will surely take your breath away.

Nice Narration. Australia is the best travel destination having lovely places all around. I went to Queenstown last year for the Christmas Holidays. Really Enjoyed a lot. Thanks for the nice info, I love to visit again

This is so amazing, I wish I could visit and see all of this wonderful site in Australia someday.

Yes you are right Australia is the most beautiful country here you find most amazing places

Australia – The place where Kangaroos live. These stunning pictures made me to go for this summer with my colleagues and friends. Thank you for Nice narration .

Hamelin Bay sounds like a dream. Australia tops my bucket list. Thanks for sharing

Hello, I’m Ellen Smith. I was reading this blog. This is a nice blog and Images are posted by you in this blog there’s nice. I think this is very usefull information for visit australia’s most iconic places.

The way you wrote everything that’s so good. Thanks for sharing this with us. Great information and explain everything properly about beautiful places.

I only managed to visit about 3-4 places from your list! I hope you haven’t been to all either 😉 Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef are definitely on my go-to list for next time!

This is such a detailed and exceptional list of places to visit in Australia, Dave and Deb! I hope that one day I’ll have a chance to explore each one of these places, especially Fraser Island. How many days would you recommend spending on Fraser Island?

It’s really awesome, I am planning a trip to Australia and by read your blog I have get complete knowledge of this place. I will must visit all these places

Australia located near from Indonesia but along this time, I only know Melbourne, I have not visit the places have You listed. it is amazing!

hope much sometime can visit those places.

Thank You for your information

Australia is a great place to spend holidays!! Awesome list of places in Australia. I think i need to visit all these places as all the places are looking very attractive. i can’t wait to go to this places! So stunning pictures you captured.

I like Uluru. It is very special

Thanks for sharing this post this is really very nice and amazing. I would love to explore Australia and Queenstown is my favourite place to explore. I have heard much about the Queenstown and just wanted to visit there.

hello thanks for the information and advice 🙂

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When most people think of Australia, they envision endless beaches, sun-kissed landscapes, and a warm, inviting climate. However, Australia is a vast and diverse country that offers unique experiences every season. As the Southern Hemisphere enters winter in August, Australia becomes a captivating winter wonderland, offering outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and cosy moments to remember.

Let's dive into the delights of exploring Australia in August and get to know about the best places to visit in Australia in August :

List Of  Australia In August

• Embracing Winter Adventures
• Cultural Experiences
• Unique Winter Experiences
• Preparing for Colder Temperatures
• Outback camping Opportunity

1. Embracing Winter Adventures

Australia August travel tips open up a new world of outdoor activities and adventures. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adrenaline junkie, or someone looking to enjoy the crisp, cool air, there's something for everyone.

Skiing and Snowboarding

August marks the peak of the snow season in the southern regions of Australia. The Snowy Mountains in New South Wales and the Victorian Alps provide excellent opportunities for skiing and snowboarding . Resorts like Thredbo and Perisher in New South Wales and Mount Buller in Victoria caters to winter sports enthusiasts of all levels. With well-groomed slopes, cosy lodges, and breathtaking alpine scenery, it's a perfect time to hit the slopes.

Whale Watching

One of August's most awe-inspiring natural spectacles is whale watching. The southern coastline of Australia becomes a migratory highway for these majestic creatures. Humpback and southern right whales journey north to warmer waters for breeding. Sydney, Melbourne, and Albany are popular for whale watching tours in Australia , where you can witness these giants of the sea breaching and playing in the waves.

Bushwalking and Hiking

If snow sports and marine life aren't your cup of tea, you can still immerse yourself in Australia's natural beauty by going bushwalking or hiking. In August, national parks like the Blue Mountains in New South Wales offer crisp, clear days and stunning vistas. Winter activities in Australia during August allow you to explore the rugged terrain, where scenic lookouts can be a rewarding experience.

Read More :  Famous Festival Of Australia

2. Cultural Experiences

Australia's cultural calendar in August is equally vibrant, offering a chance to engage with its rich heritage and contemporary art scene.

NAIDOC Week

Celebrated in July but often extending into August, NAIDOC Week is a time to honour and celebrate the culture, history, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Events, exhibitions, and cultural experiences are held nationwide, providing a unique opportunity to learn about and engage with Australia's Indigenous heritage.

Melbourne International Film Festival

Film buffs will appreciate the Melbourne International Film Festival, typically held in August. It's one of the oldest film festivals in the world, showcasing a wide range of international and Australian films. Whether you're into indie flicks, documentaries, or cinematic classics, you'll find something to captivate your imagination.

Cosy Moments in Cafes

As the temperature drops, Australians embrace cosy moments in their local cafes. Enjoy a cup of rich, aromatic coffee or indulge in a hearty meal at a charming café. Cities like Melbourne are known for their thriving café culture, making it the perfect place to savour winter comfort foods and warm beverages.

Read  More : Culture Of Australia

3. Unique Winter Experiences

Australia offers unique winter experiences unlike any other, even in the Southern Hemisphere.

Coastal Gems

Australia's coastlines are renowned for their beauty, and August presents a unique opportunity to explore them in a different light.

• Byron Bay (New South Wales): This coastal town retains its laid-back vibe year-round. Stroll along the beautiful beaches, explore the Cape Byron Lighthouse, and enjoy the serenity of this iconic destination.
• Margaret River (Western Australia): Famous for its wineries and caves, Margaret River offers a delightful coastal escape. Explore the stunning coastline, indulge in fine wines, and relish the region's culinary delights.
• Great Ocean Road (Victoria): Take a scenic drive along the breathtaking Great Ocean Road, visit the Twelve Apostles, and marvel at the dramatic coastal landscapes. August's cooler weather adds a unique charm to this iconic route.
• Great Barrier Reef (Queensland): Witness vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations and enjoy the Great Barrier Reef tours in August . With warm waters and excellent visibility, snorkelling and diving experiences are exceptional.

Hot Springs and Thermal Baths

Australia's hot springs and thermal baths provide the perfect contrast to the cooler temperatures. Places like Peninsula Hot Springs in Victoria, Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa in Hepburn Springs, and Moree Hot Springs in New South Wales offer mineral-rich thermal waters in picturesque settings. Soak away the winter chill and rejuvenate your body in these natural wonders.

4. Preparing for Colder Temperatures

Before setting on your Australian adventure, having the lowdown on the August weather and clothing in Australia is crucial. Here's a checklist to help you prepare:

• Pack layers, sweaters, jackets, and thermal wear for cooler temperatures.
• Include rainproof gear, appropriate activity footwear, and any specialised equipment.
• Monitor local weather forecasts as conditions vary.
• Balance indoor and outdoor activities for warmth.
• Check attraction hours, which may be shorter during winter.

Read More : Famous Food Of Australia

5. Outback camping Opportunity

August is an optimal time for an outback camping guide in August . Start by selecting your destination, such as the Red Centre, Kimberley, or Flinders Ranges, and research suitable campgrounds. Ensure you have the necessary permits and adhere to regulations. Respect local wildlife and Indigenous culture, and inform someone of your safety plans. Take advantage of exceptional stargazing opportunities and follow Leave No Trace principles for a memorable and responsible Outback camping experience, relishing the region's solitude and stunning natural beauty.

Read More :  Tourist Places Of Australia

Australia in August may not be what first comes to mind when envisioning this incredible country, but it offers a unique and enchanting experience. From winter adventures to cultural explorations, cosy moments, and unique winter experiences, you'll discover a different side of Australia waiting to be explored.

Discover your dream destination with Adotrip.com – your ultimate travel companion! Plan your perfect getaway with ease using our one-stop platform. From hassle-free flight bookings to tailored tour packages, comfortable hotel accommodations, and seamless visa assistance, we've got it all covered. Your adventure begins here! Book now and let Adotrip transform your travel dreams into unforgettable memories. With us, nothing is far!

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Frequently asked questions about australia in august.

Q1. How's the climate in Australia during August? A1. August in Australia sees varying climates. Southern regions are cool (8°C to 17°C), northern areas are milder (10°C to 21°C), and tropical regions remain warm (17°C to 32°C).

Q2. Are there any cultural festivals or events that take place in Australia in August? A2. In August, some cultural events in Australia include the Melbourne International Film Festival, local art exhibitions, and NAIDOC Week celebrations, which may extend into August.

Q3. Which wildlife experiences are prominent in Australia during the month of August? A3. In August, prominent wildlife experiences in Australia include whale watching (southern migration), kangaroo and koala spotting, and birdwatching in various national parks and wetlands.

Q4. Is August a good time for exploring the Australian rainforests and botanical gardens? A4. August can be a suitable time to explore Australian rainforests and botanical gardens, especially in northern and tropical regions with milder winter weather.

Q5. Can you recommend some coastal destinations that offer unique winter experiences in August? A5. Consider Byron Bay (New South Wales) for a laid-back coastal vibe, Margaret River (Western Australia) for wineries and caves, and the Great Ocean Road (Victoria) for dramatic coastal landscapes in August.

Q6. What's the availability of outdoor adventure activities like during August? A6. The availability of outdoor activities in August varies by location. Northern areas offer year-round options, while southern regions have winter sports like skiing and snowboarding in places like the Snowy Mountains and Victorian Alps.

Q7. Are there any hot springs or thermal baths to enjoy during the colder month of August? A7. Yes, you can enjoy hot springs in August in places like Peninsula Hot Springs (Victoria), Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa (Victoria), and Moree Hot Springs (New South Wales) for a relaxing experience.

Q8. What's the local cuisine like during this time of the year? A8. Local cuisine in Australia during winter (June to August) often includes hearty dishes like stews, pies, and roasts, along with seasonal produce and Australian wines.

Q9. Are there any art exhibitions or galleries to explore in August? A9. Yes, major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane often host art exhibitions in August. Check local art institutions for upcoming exhibitions and events during this time.

Q10. Is August a recommended time to visit the iconic Sydney Opera House? A10. Yes, August is a suitable time to visit the Sydney Opera House. While it's the Australian winter, there are still performances and tours available with fewer crowds.

--- Published By  Adotrip

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The Best Time to Visit Australia for Perfect Weather and Affordable Rates

These are the best times to visit Australia for surfing, hiking, beach hopping, and more.

From golden beaches and tropical rain forests to one-of-a-kind wildlife and rich Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, Australia has a memorable vacation in store for all types of visitors.

Visiting a country so big — complete with three separate time zones and eight different climate zones — requires a degree of planning. To help you get started, keep in mind the following seasons, which apply to most of the continent's tourist hot spots.

• High Season: December to February
• Shoulder Seasons: March to May and September to November
• Low Season: June to August

While city breaks, road trips, and winery visits can be enjoyed year-round, varying regional weather patterns mean that certain highlights — hiking around the iconic monolith of Uluru; snorkeling along the Great Barrier Reef — are best experienced during specific months. No matter what you want to do during your Australia trip, we've got you covered.

Best Times to Visit Australia for Smaller Crowds

Most tourists, especially from the Northern Hemisphere, visit Australia during the country's summer months: December, January, and February. To avoid these crowds, try visiting in winter (Australia's least popular season) or in the spring and fall shoulder seasons.

If you're planning to visit the country's northern coast, opposite rules apply. This region (home to the Great Barrier Reef and the city of Cairns, among other attractions) lies in the tropics. Because of this, the June to August winter months here are warm, dry, and swarming with tourists — both domestic ones on winter vacation and international visitors looking to explore the reef when visibility is at its peak. The summer rainy season, from November to April, is the least crowded time up north.

Best Times to Visit Australia for Good Weather

Every month presents an opportunity to experience a particular region of Australia at its best. If beach hopping is high on your agenda, aim for the warmer months of September to April in New South Wales and southeast Queensland, and November to March in southern states, including the southerly reaches of Western Australia. Summer is also bushfire season, so keep your eye on local alerts during your visit.

While southern states tend to experience four seasons, northern Australia (encompassing the top sections of Western Australia, the Northern Territory, and Queensland) has just two: wet (November to April) and dry (May to October). With road access often compromised during the wet season, the dry period is generally the best time to visit this region, especially on a road trip. The wet period also corresponds with cyclone and marine stinger seasons, which can make coastal travel a challenge. That said, Great Barrier Reef and rain forest tourism in the Cairns region operate year-round, weather permitting. If you want to swim during stinger season — when certain dangerous species of jellyfish populate northeast Australian waters — you'll just need to don a Lycra stinger suit supplied by your marine activity operator.

If you've got your heart set on an Australian outback adventure, the cooler months from May to August are most comfortable. For outdoor adventures in the island state of Tasmania, which has a cooler climate than the mainland, the warmer months from October to March are ideal. If you packed your skis, the snowfields of New South Wales and Victoria are typically open from June until September.

Best Times to Visit Australia for Lower Prices

Flights are usually one of the biggest cost hurdles on a trip to Australia, but there are ways to save. Airfare tends to be lowest during the Aussie winter — June to August — since that's the least popular season for tourism. At any time of year, though, you can find good deals by opting for flights with a layover instead of direct routes (New Zealand, China, and Singapore are some common stopovers) and by watching for sales. Airlines like Virgin Australia and the low-cost Qantas offshoot Jetstar often advertise great domestic deals.

Accommodation prices, meanwhile, can drop significantly in low and shoulder seasons. City breaks in the south's bustling urban centers tend to be most affordable in the winter off-season, too. Though the beaches may be too chilly for a swim, there's still plenty to see at this time of year. Try visiting in May or June to catch the Vivid Sydney festival, when iconic buildings are illuminated by incredible light installations for several weeks.

Best Times to Go Hiking in Australia

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Australia's national parks and wilderness areas are laced with hundreds of spectacular hiking trails, many of which are best tackled at certain times of the year. As the summer months can be unbearably hot in Australia's Red Centre, walks in places like Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park are most comfortably and safely undertaken from April to September.

The opposite can be said for Tasmania, where hiking is more popular during the warmer months, though walkers should be prepared for all types of weather (even snow) throughout the year. Hiking in the lush Gondwana Rainforests of Queensland and New South Wales is typically more comfortable in the drier winter months (particularly June to October), while the best time to wander Western Australia's famed Cape to Cape Track is in the spring (specifically September and October, when wildflowers are in bloom) and autumn (March to May).

Best Times to Go Surfing in Australia

Like in many other destinations around the world, the best months for surfing in Australia don't always coincide with the best months for swimming. If you're just learning how to surf, there's generally no bad time to take a lesson here — though you'll be more comfortable spending hours in the water during the warm summer months of December through February. (This is especially true in Victoria and southern Western Australia.)

For experienced surfers, the offshore winds and more consistent swells of the Australian winter tend to proffer the best conditions, though storms can also generate big waves at any time of year. If you'd rather watch great surfers than join them, try visiting in fall months like March or April — that's when many of the country's biggest surfing competitions, like the Margaret River Pro and Newcastle's Surfest , are held.

Best Times to See Wildlife in Australia

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

One of the best things about visiting Australia between May and November is the opportunity to spot migrating whales. Various species make their way up and down the east and west coasts during those months, with different peak times for each species. The best time to book a whale-watching tour in general is August or September, when humpbacks tend to be most active. If you've always wanted to see an orca on the hunt, aim to be in Western Australia's Bremer Bay between January and April.

When it comes to seeing land-based wildlife, it's more about the time of day than the time of year, with the hours of dusk and dawn typically the best for spotting native animals such as kangaroos and wombats. From lorikeets to cockatoos to the iconic kookaburra, Australia's birds (which can often be seen in cities) also tend to sing their hardest when they come in to roost. And after dozing in gum trees all day, koalas are more active in the evenings, making them easier to spot.

Baby animals of all kinds abound in springtime (September to November) across the country. And while sea turtles can be spotted in Australian waters throughout the year, time your visit to Queensland between November and January to see them come ashore to nest, with their babies hatching from January to April.

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

Worst times to visit australia.

Australia's diverse natural beauty and thriving culture mean that there's no bad time to visit. But, depending on your priorities, some times of year can be better than others.

If avoiding crowds and saving money are your top goals, you may want to skip summertime, when tourist numbers and flight and hotel costs reach their annual peak. For beach hopping, avoid the winter — except on the northern coast, where the beaches of Port Douglas and the Whitsunday Islands are at their best in the dry winter months.

International travelers should also note that Easter is surprisingly busy. Australian schools go on break this time of year, and most locals use that time to travel, whether to see family or go on vacation. Since this drives up prices and increases crowds, Easter may be a time to avoid unless you too are there to visit Australian relatives.

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Experience Oz Blog The Best Places in Australia to Visit in August

August in Australia marks something of a transitional period, with the heart of winter gradually edging towards spring, and as a result, the weather at the start of the month and the end can be quite drastic contrasts to one another.

If you’re looking for a destination for travel during this part of the year, the main deciding factor may come down to exactly what kind of holiday you’re looking for as some destinations are more oriented towards indoor and city-based experiences where others emphasise enjoying nature and the Great Outdoors.

August also traditionally provides lower levels of rainfall than most other months across the board, and while lower temperatures are a given, the benefit of lower humidity can often make some other typically-stifling spots in Australia’s hot climate far more bearable.

Taking these factors into account, where then are the best places in Australia to travel during August? Here’s our list of 6 top spots to visit in August.

6. Flinders Ranges & Outback, SA

Average temperatures: 7.6 degrees Celsius – 21.0 degrees Celsius

Ideal for: Adventurous travellers looking to get outside

Top Things to do: Wilpena Pound hike or scenic flight; 4WD self-drive or tours; Umoona Opal Mine; Coober Pedy opals; ride the Pichi Richi Railway; walk the Heysen Trail; stay at Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary

While most might plan a trip to South Australia to orient themselves around the likes of world-class wineries, Euro-centric architecture and dashes of wonderful coastline, there’s an element to the state that turns this popular conception on its head while being strikingly beautiful in its own right; the South Australian Outback.

A word typically associated more intrinsically with the Northern Territory, SA’s Outback has plenty to offer the adventurous traveller, with the cooler months, such as August, helping to alleviate the otherwise fiery heat of the state’s interior.

This is an ancient and sunburnt landscape that’s home to a number of natural marvels and experiences while also remaining relatively under-visited. As a result, it’s an excellent choice of locations for those looking to truly escape from the crowds and unplug. It all starts by hitting the road and venturing north of Adelaide – a 4WD-capable vehicle is not mandatory but helps remove plenty of potential barriers to further adventure – for around 200km before the initial peaks of the expansive Flinders Ranges come into view.

The Flinders serve as something of a natural (and enormous) signpost to entering Outback SA, and offer a nearly endless array of offroad trails and tracks on which to go exploring, highlighted by the popular Skytrek route that winds its way through a mixture of striking mountain valleys, tree-lined creeks and plenty of historic points of interest from past habitation.

Habitation is something that’s truly lacking in the current Flinders Ranges – the largest town is Hawker, with a population that hovers around the low hundreds – and as such those looking for elaborate creature comforts and conveniences may find the region wanting. For most, however, this is a built-in part of its charm and a necessary compromise for encountering some of South Australia’s most unique sights.

Chief among these is the massive natural amphitheatre of Wilpena Pound, which juts prominently out of the landscape around 55km from Hawker.

With a number of peaks encrusting its roughly circular shape and an interesting interior that can be explored both via a number of walking trails or on a stunning scenic flight that ranks alongside Australia’s best, it serves as the main highlight of the region for many first-time visitors.

The rest of the Flinders Ranges is no slouch, either, as there are numerous other features ranging from Aboriginal sites, massive gorges and even dashes of vivid colour and flora, particularly after recent rainfall.

Of course, Outback South Australia does not stop at the Flinders Ranges, press on further north and you’ll encounter the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, the vast, salty expanse of enormous Lake Eyre, and to the north-west, the iconic outback town of Coober Pedy with its renowned mixture of opals and underground living.

Living underground is a way of life in this mining town, with scorching hot days often making subterranean dwellings a far cooler and more comfortable alternative. It’s only fitting, then, that one of the town’s key attractions is a full-blown showcase of the underground world, with Umoona Opal Mine and Museum being converted into a comprehensive tribute to the region’s history, industry, indigenous culture and innovative construction techniques.

As Coober Pedy was a town built on the back of opals, the gemstones feature prominently in the attraction, the experience starts with a short video detailing how they are formed, then carries on to showcase an example of a typical underground home, known as a dugout.

Visitors have the ability to wander through the mine’s curated sections and absorb the detailed information at their own pace, while there’s also some wonderfully-produced material chronicling the Aboriginal perspective on the region and its opals. And, of course, any visit to Umoona must conclude with some gawking over some of the spectacular opal-oriented jewellery on display that is available at competitive prices and amazing in their colouration.

Add in the potential for several other incredible journeys on both foot and rail, and a trip here expands even further. The Heysen Trail, a portion of one of Australia’s greatest walks, encompasses parts of the region, and while walking the entire track takes roughly 60 days, even a single day on the track can provide a perspective on raw Australian nature that relatively few get to experience.

The Outback of SA is also home to two magnificent train trips; the Pichi Richi Railway that meanders its way at a leisurely pace through the Pichi Richi Pass in the Flinders Ranges between March and November, and the more epic and symbolically-Australian Ghan rail journey that connects Adelaide with Darwin over a period of four days.

In all, the region is large enough in both scale and scope to form the backbone of a number of incredible itineraries; leave those creature comforts at home and you’ll end up with one of the purest ways to embrace raw Australia with a journey to SA’s Outback.

5. Fraser Island, Queensland

Average temperatures: 14.1 degrees Celsius to 25.0 degrees Celsius

Ideal for: Relaxing island getaways and those who don’t mind swimming in cooler waters

Top Things to do: Visit Lake Mackenzie; the Champagne Pools; Eli Creek; 75 Mile Beach; Maheno Shipwreck; Central Station Rainforest

The world’s largest sand island lies off the coast of Queensland’s Hervey Bay , and is renowned for its blend of natural displays ranging from multicoloured sands to rare species of wildlife and ancient rainforests.

Given its ease of accessibility and sheer diversity, Fraser Island remains a remarkably underrated Aussie travel destination and is more often a favourite of Queenslanders and other locals who are knowledgeable about its many offerings.

While this part of Queensland is typically warm and sunny throughout most of the year, the combination of lower air temperatures and cool sea breezes during August remove any trace of the sometimes-uncomfortable humidity that Fraser can experience during the hottest periods of the year.

While mornings and nights can still be cool in times when the wind picks up, you’ll still be able to experience the majority of the joys of Fraser Island’s nature without having to fight crowds during August and still be treated to wonderful weather for relaxing on its many beautiful beaches.

Temperature averages for August during the day are a comfortable maximum of 23 degrees Celsius and edge up towards 24 – 25 degrees Celsius as the end of the month approaches.

While this may prove to make the beaches of Fraser Island un-swimmable for many – both because of their shark-laden nature and the chilly water temperature – the island is home to numerous shallow lagoons, lakes and creeks that provide an excellent alternative option for refreshment on warmer days.

August also brings with it other natural benefits; it’s an exceptionally popular destination for fishermen, as the numbers of tailor available for catch draw fishing enthusiasts from far and wide. The month is also peak season for Fraser Island’s wildflowers, which add an additional layer of colour to what is already an impressive natural landscape.

This floral display mixes with the climate conditions to make August one of the best times of the year to take part in one of Fraser Island’s many potential extensive bush walks. From shorter strolls along the beach all the way up to the full epic scope of the Fraser Island Great Walk track; a wonderful journey that can be conducted over the span of 6 – 8 days depending on how many diversions you’re looking to take.

During the walk, you’ll get a comprehensive overview of the island’s mixture of mangrove forest, crystal-clear freshwater lakes, and other topography that make it such a special place.

Not everyone will have so much free time to spare on their holiday, however, and it’s a good thing that a decent cross-section of Fraser Island’s offerings can be experienced in a shorter span if necessary.

While day tours are available, travellers should stay at least one night on the island as the sheer size of it means you’ll only be able to cover this single area.

However, day trippers can still see a significant amount such as Lake McKenzie, Eli Creek, the Maheno Shipwreck and others. As a result, other must-see locales on Fraser Island that lie further away such as the wonderful Champagne Pools, Indian Head and more, will be missed on a single-day itinerary which is why the 2-day minimum comes highly recommended.

Getting to Fraser Island is typically done via a ferry that can take both pedestrians and vehicles (4WD only) over the water from Hervey Bay, while those with money to spare can book an air charter for a landing on either a grass airstrip or on the expansive 75 Mile Beach itself. Chartered tours for 1 to 3 days are also offered via tour operators (see our Hervey Bay tours section for options) that aim to cover the majority of the island’s essentials on their itineraries.

If you’re looking for an alternative destination in Australia during August that will help you escape the cold yet not as commercialised as some other tropical QLD offerings, give strong consideration to Fraser Island; you’ll be glad you did.

4. Litchfield National Park, NT

Average temperatures: 17.8 degrees Celsius to 33.0 degrees Celsius

Ideal for: Holidaymakers seeking an outdoor escape with beautiful natural attractions

Top Things to do: Visit Blyth Homestead; the Lost City; Florence, Wangi & Tjaynera (Sandy Creek) Falls; see the magnetic termite mounds; swim in Bluey Rockhole

The less famous little brother of Kakadu National Park, Litchfield National Park in the Northern Territory is equally spectacular in its own way, and its compact size and easier accessibility from Darwin make it a much more reasonable proposition to explore.

Home to an incredible array of ruggedly beautiful environments, Litchfield offers much of the marvel of Kakadu just over an hour’s drive away from the Northern Territory’s capital.

From beautifully clear swimming holes to sheer cliff faces, rushing waterfalls, towering termite mounds and various other examples of raw and untouched Australia, it is a beautiful sight. As a result, getting a sampling of Litchfield’s marvels is doable in a single day as opposed to Kakadu.

August in Litchfield and its surrounds falls within its dry season – this part of the Northern Territory only has two major seasons, the wet and the dry as far as the average traveller is concerned – and as a result of much more of the area, as well as some additional camping areas, is open and accessible.

The difference between the NT’s national parks in the wet and dry seasons is dramatic enough to make them seem almost like two entirely different locations, and they are worth visiting during each if you’re ever planning a return visit.

Traditionally an area that gets extremely hot and humid during the wetter summer months, winter becomes the peak tourist season for Litchfield as many are drawn from colder, southern states to explore this part of Australia’s heartland under much warmer conditions.

The inevitable downside that comes with this favourable weather is that Litchfield National Park’s waterfalls aren’t as powerful or dramatic as they are in the wet season, however, this is the tradeoff made for the benefits of more comfortable and predictable weather.

This is particularly crucial for a destination such as Litchfield which is entirely based outdoors and will have you walking through some densely forested areas. August as a travel time means you’ll have to dedicate far less energy to deal with one of the pesky natives; the dreaded mosquito.

In addition, picking August avoids the majority of Australian school holiday periods which helps reduce fellow tourist numbers and leads to retaining some of the isolation and seclusion of this natural area without having to fight for viewing spots or share swimming holes.

In terms of how to spend your time at Litchfield, you’ll both be spoiled for choice and be able to access them all in relatively short order as the majority of the park’s main highlights are located within close proximity to one another. In all, it’s a very easy National Park to find your way around compared to the vastness of Kakadu.

Which key parts of the park appeal to you will depend on personal taste and what you’re looking for; swimming in natural waterholes, in particular, is a major drawcard of Litchfield, there’s some quality spots to swim at Buley Rockhole, and both Florence and Wangi Falls. All of these can be visited in one day and so you may simply determine which is the least crowded and spend the most time there.

The iconic magnetic termite mounds – hundreds of often-towering insect-built structures that face north-to-south – are viewable from the main road inwards and you’ll undoubtedly see them on the way in, and there are numerous opportunities for short walks and hikes available.

Many of these walks are relatively easy and maintained, and Litchfield National Park has a good range of picnic facilities throughout when sticking to the main tourist tracks which make enjoying your own lunch in lovely surroundings a breeze.

There are few day trips from Darwin that can compare to Litchfield National Park, and August brings along with it pleasurable conditions to what is one of the Northern Territory’s must do’s.

3. Cairns, QLD

Average temperatures: 17.4 degrees Celsius to 26.6 degrees Celsius

Ideal for: Travellers looking to escape the cold and explore the reef and rainforest

Top Things to do: Snorkel or dive the Outer Reef ; visit Green & Fitzroy Islands ; the Cairns Botanic Gardens; ride the SkyRail Rainforest Cableway; go whitewater rafting ; bungee jumping ; or go hot air ballooning .

Much like Litchfield above, Cairns is another popular travel destination where humidity plays a large role in the associated level of appeal for visitors making their way for a trip.

Perhaps Australia’s most famed destination for those looking to explore all the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns’ location in Queensland’s tropical north brings along with it all the associated weather and climate conditions.

Aspects such as the aforementioned humidity, regular thunderstorms with heavy and copious amounts of midges and mosquitoes all come into play to varying degrees throughout the year. It’s particularly important in a destination where most will want to spend a great deal of their time either in, on, or under the water that the sunshine and a lack of rain are the names of the game and it’s here that August shines in Cairns exceptionally well.

The peak of winter is a term that might apply to many destinations in August, but in Cairns, it’s easy to shrug off with an ideal daily average maximum temperature of 26.5°C (79.7°F) and the lowest amount of rainy days of any other month of the year in the region.

This far greater chance of sunny days makes planning an enjoyable reef trip much more predictable and viable in other months of the year and is a crucial element to not having your Cairns visit spoiled.

Given Cairns’ popularity as a travel spot, costs can also be cut by travelling in August as opposed to the busier July. As a result of the lack of school holidays prices may still be fairly high given Cairns’ global appeal, but it’s one less factor to contend with when booking accommodation or tours. This also avoids the bulk of the overseas/international peak reef season as well.

While travelling to Cairns in what is relatively a cooler time of the year can have the drawback of lower water temperatures, when hitting the Great Barrier Reef for a day trip most tour companies will provide wetsuits as part of their packages upon request.

There are also numerous facilities in and around Cairns where wetsuit hire is offered. If you’re the type that’s sensitive to cold conditions they’re well worth investing in. August in Cairns also tends to be fairly windy which may add an additional chill when getting out of the water.

Of course, you don’t have to spend the entirety of your time in Cairns, trips out to the likes of Green Island and Fitzroy Island attempt to provide just as much entertainment on land as in the water. The simple act of lazing on the beach draped in the sunshine makes for a welcomed escape from the cold of most southern Aussie states.

Likewise, the World Heritage protected rainforests that surround Cairns offer an entirely different world to the Reef to explore with numerous possibilities for travellers to explore in a variety of ways. The rainforest’s humidity is also reduced during this period and plenty of activities from the SkyRail Rainforest Cableway to river cruises and simple guided walks benefit from these favourable conditions.

Most first-time visitors to Australia will want to include Cairns on their itinerary at some point, and if you’re wanting to experience the region at what is perhaps its best balance of weather, crowding and price then August checks all the appropriate boxes.

2. Port Stephens, NSW

Average temperatures: 9.8 degrees Celsius to 18.9 degrees Celsius

Ideal for: Wildlife and scenic lovers

Top Things to do: View from Gan Gan Lookout; go sandboarding; take a dolphin cruise; snorkel at Fly Point; learn to surf; go Quad Biking; Toboggan Hill Park

The central coast of New South Wales is another strongly underrated travel destination that brings with it many of the benefits of the more famous south-east Queensland destinations without nearly as much crowding and typically cheaper overall prices.

Port Stephens is perhaps its most picturesque spot, this large, natural harbour in the Hunter region offers plenty of fun to be had both in and out of the water for days in August when you feel it’s too cold to swim.

Located just over 2-hours to the north of Sydney (or far shorter from Newcastle), it’s an easy drive that brings along with it numerous natural rewards for the aspiring visitor.

The reason for Port Stephens’ aquatic offerings being so popular are several; not only are they clean, spacious and picturesque to explore, but they’re also teeming with marine life that comes to the forefront during August and some of its surrounding months.

Whale watching is a big drawcard for the Port Stephens region, and the beginning of August lies right in the heart of the migratory period of these huge yet gentle giants of the ocean.

As a result, whale watching is one of Port Stephens’ most popular activities for tourists and can be done from both on land (within the bushy Tomaree National Park) and on a range of whale watching cruises conducted by local operators. Whales aren’t the only mammals to populate the waters around Port Stephens, either, as it also serves as the base for over 100 bottlenose dolphins.

Other water-based experiences also play a large role in the activity scene here. Surfing is popular with lessons provided by a range of local surf schools, fishing is great with both on and offshore possibilities for catching a game, and even snorkelling is more than viable at the popular Fly Point that sits within the Halifax Park Aquatic Reserve that even novice snorkelers can enjoy.

There’s a wide array of fish and marine life to be witnessed here, as well as a solid concentration of crustaceans and sponges that add an additional layer of variety to the seascape. Port Stephens’ other major standout natural feature is its expansive sand dunes, and if there’s any one activity that’s emblematic of Port Stephens as a whole, then sand boarding is probably it.

A staple activity of youths growing up in the region, it’s a simple pleasure that can be enjoyed by all ages, and the moderate August weather means the impact of the sun on the dunes and its reflection is minimised somewhat if you’re planning to spend several hours here.

These dunes are impressive in size – they’re the largest of their kind in the Southern Hemisphere – and can be reached via 4WD tours that also provide the optional chance to take in some of the history and geographies of the surrounding area.

Lastly, August’s famously clear skies make one of Port Stephens’ absolute must-do experiences, the trip up to Gan Gan Lookout, even more pleasurable. The region’s most impressive panorama, clear days result in a great degree of visibility from which you’ll be able to take in the beautiful blue waters of the bay and its various dotting islands, the surrounding greenery, and some of the town itself.

Couple all of the above with the ability to find uncrowded stretches of lovely beach that you can have practically to yourself, and Port Stephens idyllic balance of natural offerings and a lack of over-commercialisation make it an easy destination to recommend for those who want a seaside getaway.

1. Uluru, NT

Average temperatures: 5.5 degrees Celsius to 22.6 degrees Celsius

Ideal for: The ultimate Aussie outback escape

Top Things to do: see the sunset/sunrise at Uluru ; take a camel ride ; do the Sound of Silence experience; take an Uluru helicopter flight.

Perhaps more than any other destination outside of maybe the Great Barrier Reef, this is the destination we most often get asked as to when is the best time to visit. As one of our country’s truly amazing and internationally-recognised icons, Uluru/Ayers Rock is a site where the term ‘bucket list item’ isn’t just a cliché, it’s actually 100% true.

Situated almost exactly in the centre of the Australian continent, the massive stone structure combines amazing scale with isolation and cultural significance into a single unique package that can’t be found anywhere else in the world.

As Uluru’s isolation is one of its most appealing features, it also makes travel to the rock quite an effort, and it’s important to ensure you travel at the best possible time, which we feel is the tail end of August for a number of reasons.

Found in a location that is basically a desert, weather and climate come into play in the Uluru region just as much, if not more so, than any other destination on this list. As a result, both summer and the raw middle of winter (July in particular) are recommended to be avoided, for differing reasons.

While most people’s initial concerns will likely be based on the heat, it’s the cold that can catch most people off-guard as the utter lack of humidity in the area can lead to some truly frigid nights as below-zero temperatures are not uncommon.

August’s final weeks alleviate this somewhat, as the minimums hover around a chilly-yet-doable 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit), while the edge is taken off the daytime heat to produce a wonderfully comfortable average maximum of 28 degrees Celsius (82.4 degrees Fahrenheit).

The flora and fauna of the region have also typically started to swing around to its recovery phase by this time, which serves to add a further layer of colour and life to what is already a marvellous part of the country. Wildflowers in bloom start to dot the area, and their greenery contrasts wonderfully with the reddish hues of the surrounding landscape and Uluru itself in particular. Throw in the lack of school holidays and you’ll save yourself some money during your travels here, too.

It’s inevitable that an adventure to the Outback goes hand-in-hand with flies, but during the warmer months of the year, a face net all but mandatory.

August and its associated time of the year helps to alleviate this greatly, and while you will no doubt still encounter some, the numbers of flies are much more manageable.

Combine all of these elements together and you’ll likely have much more energy with which to enjoy a full day’s worth of exploration of this iconic spot. Walk the base, take a tour, go on a camel ride, visit Kings Canyon and Kata Tjuta/The Olgas, and experience stargazing under incredibly clear skies all without excessive amounts of sweat.

Uluru’s an essential itinerary item for every traveller once in their lives, so aim your trip towards the end of August and you’ll come away with an unforgettable and comfortable journey that will stay with you forever.

In addition, if you’re looking for all the top things to see and do in and around Australia including activities, attractions and more, be sure to check out our main Experiences section to browse and book online!

We acknowledge and pay respect to the Traditional Custodians of Country and their connections and continuous care for the skies, lands and waterways throughout Australia.

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The most incredible places to visit in Australia that you can't miss

Not sure where to begin with the Great Southern Land? Here are the must-sees for 2024

Call us biased, but we reckon Australia is one of the most astonishing and varied places to explore on Earth. A sizeable place – (you know, continent-sized), it can be hard to know where to begin when it comes to working out how to tackle the Great Southern Land – but that's where we come in.

From turquoise beaches with sugar white sand, to ancient tropical rainforests, to flaming red deserts, to buzzy metropolitan cities, we've picked out the 25 most incredible places you should visit in Australia. 

No matter who you are, or what you like, rest assured – there's something on this list for everyone. 

RECOMMENDED: Follow the rainbow to Australia's most colourful landmarks.

Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Australia newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox.  

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

The best places in Australia

Uluru and kata tjuta, nt.

The red centre in the Northern Territory is truly Australia's sacred heart, and nothing is quite so sacred or spectacular as Uluru, in Kata Tjuta National Park. On the ancestral lands of the  A n angu people, Uluru has had immense spiritual importance for Australia's First Nations people. In all types of light, weather and seasons, Uluru is magnificent. You can walk around its immense red base and hear stories from Indigenous guides – but climbing is very much not allowed. While you're there, drive 40 minutes to Kata Tjuta (formerly known as The Olgas) for another remarkable and magnificent red rock formation that's imbued with ancient secrets and deep spiritual meaning.  Considered a living, breathing landscape, Uluru and Kata Tjuta are places that will stay with you long after you've left.

Why go? Magical sunsets, guided Indigenous walks, impressive light shows

K'gari (Fraser Island), QLD

• Attractions

Spanning 123 kilometres in length, the World Heritage-listed K’gari isn’t just the largest sand island on Earth, but sparkles with the fourth most crystal-clear waters in Oceania. The adventures are endless here, both on and off the water. You can climb ancient sand dunes, swim in crystalline lakes, trek through tropical rainforests, and spot humpback whales and the world's largest purest colony of dingos. Plus, K'gari is wonderfully off-grid, so you can truly switch off during your stay.

Why go?  4WD driving, freshwater lake swims, ancient rainforest hikes, whale watching

Blue Mountains, NSW

A hop, skip and a jump west of Sydney lies the Blue Mountains region. Named for the mysterious blue mist (generated from the thousands of gum trees, actually) that hugs this immense landscape, this remarkably special spot manages to combine incredible nature with cosy eateries, impeccable accomodation  and delightful boutique shops. In summer, explore the region's many pristine waterholes and waterfalls, and in winter, rug up for cosy walks, followed by a meal out at one of these incredible restaurants.  Whether you like glow-worm grottos or day spas , this perfect weekend away from Sydney can be whatever you want it to be. 

Why go?  Bushwalks, waterfalls, stargazing, day spas

Exmouth & Ningaloo Reef, WA

The sleepy coastal town of Exmouth is adjacent to the Cape Range National Park and the 300 kilometre Ningaloo Reef – a region that is drop-dead gorgeous and brimming with vitality. Located about 1,270 kilometres north of Perth (around a 15-hour drive or two-hour flight to nearby Learmouth), Exmouth is a nature lover’s playground with one of the longest fringing reefs on the planet, meaning in many places the coral comes right up to the beach. You can swim with whale sharks (don’t worry, they’re harmless filter feeders that can grow up to 18 metres in length), spot a black-footed rock wallaby at Yardie Creek or take a guided walk through the fossil-crusted Mandu Mandu Gorge, which has been inhabited by humans for about 30,000 years.

Why go?  Swimming with whale shark, reef snorkelling, hiking

Kangaroo Island, SA

Recently named as the world's second-best 'must visit' region by Lonely Planet, Kangaroo Island (also known as  Karta Pintingga)  is pretty special. Full of pristine beaches, this open-air wildlife sanctuary is perfect for all those keen on seeing native Aussie animals at their happiest in the wild. With perfect beaches, seal colonies, cuddly koalas and a seriously delicious local food and wine scene, this third-largest island in Australia is a fail-safe place for good times. Plus, its home to a beach that took out Tourism Australia's prize for best beach in the nation in 2023 .

Why go? Native animal spotting, quiet beach walks,  sweeping ocean views, luxury resorts

Kakadu National Park, NT

A certified UNESCO World Heritage site, Kakadu National Park is certainly one of Australia’s most incredible national parks. The fringe of the park is about a two-hour drive from Darwin, where it sits on the traditional lands of the Bininj/Mungguy people. Pro tip: Kakadu is best explored at your own pace by car. It’s actually Australia’s largest national park (it covers more than 20,000 square kilometres), so you’ll need some time to discover it all properly. Take a peek at the 200 metre Jim Jim Falls waterfall; go for a swim at Gunlom, the crystal-clear infinity rock pool made famous in Crocodile Dundee ; hike your way through the 30-odd walking trails that sweep across Kakadu; or take your 4WD out for a spin towards the crown of the park, Jarrangbarnmi (also known as the stunning Koolpin Gorge).

Why go? Hiking, waterfalls, hot springs, 4WD drives

The Whitsundays, QLD

Think you have to go to the Maldives for a slice of paradise? Australia’s got its very own paradise ready and waiting in the Whitsundays. This collection of 74 islands is located right next to the northeast coast of Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef. Most of the islands are uninhabited, and you’ve probably seen  secluded, long white stretches of beach and gorgeous landmarks like Heart Reef on your Instagram feed. If that’s not enough to entice you to pay a visit, the average daily temperature is 27 degrees Celsius. Enough said.

Why go? Snorkelling, boat trips,  scenic flights 

Lord Howe Island, NSW

Rugged, tropical and seriously beautiful, Lord Howe is a destination that we all want to try at least once in our lives. With just 400 visitors allowed at any one time and no mobile reception here, you’ll have space to breathe as you visit incredible natural attractions and mingle with the hundreds of animal species that call this island home. Whether it's exploring secret beaches, swimming with rainbow fish or eating incredible food, this is paradise – in all senses of the word.

Why go? Secret beaches, swimming with turtles, diving, off-grid holidaying 

Eyre Peninsula, SA

Considering a whopping 65 per cent of Australia's seafood comes from this pristine bit of coastline that lines the Great Australian Bight in Southern Australia, you can bet your bottom dollar that if you like fish, this should be on your Australia travel list. From swimming with sea lions, to exploring pristine beaches, to foraging for your own oysters, Eyre has it all. You can fly into one of the region's three airports from Adelaide, and then hire a car to explore the long stretches of remote and stunning coastline on the way. You'll just need a roadworthy vehicle, and a ravenous appetite for good times – and even better seafood.

Why go? Jaw-dropping beaches,  oyster foraging, coastal caves, swimming with sea lions

The Kimberley, WA

If adventure is your favourite thing, look no further than the wild reaches of the Kimberley in Western Australia. Whether you do it by roadtrip, cruise or helicopter, this vast and incredible region is full of ancient Indigenous and geological history, glorious waterways and towering red rocks. A particular highlight is the shocking pink waters of Lake Hillier. Three times bigger than England, this is an absolutely huge area of land, so we recommend doing it either with a tour, or with someone who knows what they're doing.

Why go? Giant waterfalls, p ink lakes, ancient Indigenous rock art, helicopter rides, hikes

Kings Canyon, NT

Considered one of the most epic hikes in the world, this surprising oasis in the middle of the Central Australian desert is bound to astound you. Towering red rocks, a magenta-hued moonscape and a secret waterhole in the middle of hundreds of kilometres of orange sand await you at this very sacred place. The six kilometre walk around the rim of this incredibly impressive place is fairly easy for a range of fitness levels – but just beware of the steep stair scramble at the very beginning.

Why go? Epic hikes, Aboriginal cultural experiences, helicopter rides, stunning sunsets

Rottnest Island (Wadjemup), WA

Just a zippy 30-minute ferry ride from Fremantle (or 90 minutes from the Perth CBD), Rottnest Island is one of Western Australia's greatest gems. Also known by its local Aboriginal name, Wadjemup, and ‘Rotto’ by locals, it’s an essential addition to any WA itinerary.  Out of towners may know Rottnest for its friendly population of quokkas, but the island is also home to the most incredible azure blue waters you’ll come across, and nowadays, it has a selection of top-notch eateries and luxe accommodation, as well as camping grounds, cafés and low-key restaurants for the budget-conscious.

Why go? Beach hopping, bike riding, quokkas, camping

Bruny Island, TAS

With its incredibly pure air and unspoilt wilderness, Bruny Island is reachable via a 20-minute ferry journey from the town of Kettering. With just a few hundred human residents, it’s also home to an abundance of wildlife, including fairy penguins, white wallabies and swift parrots. Frolic on remote beaches, do incredible hikes and spot dolphins and wales jumping in the clear waters of the Tasman Sea. On top of that, you eat. Whether it's fresh oysters from Get Shucked or oozing cheeses and chilled glasses of vino from the Bruny Island Cheese Company, it's guaranteed you will not leave empty (stomach, or soul). 

Why go? Fairy penguins, oysters and cheese, unspoilt landscapes, water adventures

The Great Barrier Reef, QLD

It's a classic for a reason. A UNESCO world heritage icon, people come from all over the world to witness the rainbow wonders of the biggest coral reef on Earth. Although threatened by climate change, the Great Barrier Reef continues to offer up a watery magic that has to be swum in to be believed.  Whether you’re a hardcore scuba diver, novice snorkeller or want to see the GBR via a fancy glass-bottomed boat, there are multiple ways to explore it . Just make sure you wear reef-safe sunscreen. The turtles will thank you. 

Why go? Glass bottom boat rides, snorkelling, scuba diving

Byron Bay, NSW

Whether you know for its hippie days of old, or for being home to Chris Hemsworth, Byron Bay in the Northern Rivers region of NSW is inarguably stunningly beautiful. A barefoot, beachside town that is also a whale and dolphin sanctuary, Byron offers up stunning beaches, gorgeous green rolling hills and epic coastal walks galore. On top of all the astounding nature is world-class food, incredible coffee, an abundance of boutique shops, and a year-round holiday feel. Although now more gentrified and expensive than it's ever been, Bryon has a particular kind of magic that even the most cashed-up influencers cannot take away. 

Why go? Blissful  beaches, coastal walks, trendy food scene

The Great Ocean Road, VIC

Justifiably one of Victoria’s most popular tourist destinations, the Great Ocean Road snakes all along the southwest coast of the state, starting in Torquay (1.5 hours from the CBD) and finishing up just before Warrnambool. This winding stretch of road provides ample opportunity to reconnect with the ocean, the bush and the sounds and sights of nature whether driving, walking, horseriding, surfing, sailing or cycling. From stunning beaches, to cascading waterfalls , to upmarket dining, to the wonders of the Twelve Apostles , there are plenty of adventures to be had. 

Why go? Road trips, natural wonders, stunning beaches

The Sapphire Coast, NSW

If glittering blue waters are your shtick, the Sapphire Coast on NSW's southern coastal border should be on your Australia travel list. Not a known tourist hot spot (probably because it takes up to five hours to drive down here from Sydney), this stretch of oceanic paradise and rugged, unspoilt nature is what postcard dreams are made of. Whether it's guzzling fresh oysters and swimming with seals in Narooma , walking on the world's whitest sand at Hyams , eating just-caught seafood in Eden and succulent cheeses from dairies in Bega and Tilba, or just swimming in crystal clear waters at pretty much every beach along the way, you can best believe that this trip is pretty priceless.

Why go? White beaches, fresh oysters, swimming with seals

The Scenic Rim, QLD

If the name didn’t already give it away, the Scenic Rim is truly a spectacular sight. Just an easy 60-minute drive from Brisbane or the Gold Coast , this hinterland region is known as Brisbane’s World Heritage-listed backyard, boasting stunning national parks, lush rainforests and dramatic mountain ranges. See for yourself why it was included in Lonely Planet’s Top Ten Regions of the World list for 2022. 

Why go? Off-grid escape,  breathtaking mountain vistas, boutique vineyards

Sydney City, NSW

Everyone knows Sydney packs a punch when it comes to spectacular views and thrilling activities. A blue-water city through and through, this buzzing metropolis is a one-stop holiday destination that has something for pretty much everyone. From incredible beaches , to hot and happening new bars , cafés , and restaurants , to colourful cultural happenings , to secluded bushwalks , this city has it all, no matter your poison. 

Why go? Beautiful beaches, world-class restaurants, ferry rides, secluded bushwalks

Tasmanian Mainland, TAS

It’s easy to understand the allure of Australia’s southernmost state. For one thing, 40 per cent of Tasmania is preserved as national parks and world heritage wilderness. Drive 20 minutes outside the state’s major cities (Hobart and Launceston) and you can walk in emerald bushlands, discover hidden waterfalls, or lounge on an exquisite and remote beach . But Tasmania isn’t just for nature fans. There’s extraordinary food, gin and whisky distilleries, wildlife sanctuaries (where you’ll meet endangered Tasmanian devils), cool-climate wineries, wild festivals ,  and a world-class art museum in the  Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) .

Why go? Fresh produce, wild festivals, remote beaches

The Daintree Rainforest, QLD

This ancient rainforest is the traditional country of the Kuku Yalanji people. For an estimated 5,000 years, the Indigenous people of the Daintree have been coexisting with the environment and imbuing the land with dreaming. Referring to the rainforest as ‘Madja’ (elder), the Kuku Yalanji are the custodians of invaluable knowledge of the prehistoric flora and fauna. The Daintree is full of sacred sites and you can experience some of these with permission. This  verdant paradise features movie-cool waterfalls, clear blue lakes, sunlight shimmering through the trees, tropical vegetation and exotic wildlife. 

Why go? Incredible r ainforest walks, secret swimming holes, Aboriginal walkabout tours, eco-lodges

The Dorrigo Rainforest and Bellingen, NSW

If impossibly lush, emerald hills, ancient rainforests and sparkling freshwater swimming holes are your idea of a good time, look no further than exploring the hidden wonders of inland Northern NSW. The Dorrigo rainforest is a World Heritage-listed pocket of wilderness left over from Gondwana. Packed with oodles of accessible day walks, this is a remarkable place to see rainforest birds, dip into water holes and even walk through the tree canopy. Drive 30 minutes away to Bellingen, an artistic country town that's packed full of incredible local food, buzzy bars and some of the most perfect swimming spots you've ever seen. 

Why go? Gorgeous day walks, freshwater swimming holes, secluded picnic spots

Melbourne City, VIC

All the stereotypes about Melbourne are true: everyone wears black, everyone is coffee obsessed , and there are far too many rooftop bars for a city with such temperamental weather. But the best thing about Melbourne is that it’s full of secrets to discover. Whether it’s a hidden laneway bar , a ten-storey shopping adventure or an underground theatre space, most things worth visiting are within easy reach (and cheap as chips to get to, thanks to the city-wide free tram zone).

Why go? Top-notch coffee, hidden laneways, AFL, vibrant arts and culture scene

The Snowy Mountains, NSW

If you're a snow bunny and are keen to come Down Under and hit the slopes, you're in luck (so long as it's winter, and there's been snow). Up high in the Australian Alps is the aptly named 'Snowy Mountain' region of NSW. Also accessible from Canberra and Melbourne, this rugged and mountainous region has a special beauty, no matter the season. In winter, ski at one of the many snow resorts up high, and in summer, head up for cool climate hikes, freezing swims and cosy eats.

Why go? Skiing, snow boarding, mountain hiking, hot tubs

Broken Hill, NSW

There are few places in Australia, or indeed the world, as fascinating, complex and unexpected as Broken Hill. Founded on the richest lead, zinc and silver orebody ever discovered, a mining rush in the 1880s made it one of the most prosperous settlements in Australia’s early colonial days. In more recent years, blockbuster movies have been filmed here, including Priscilla Queen of the Desert and Mad Max 2 , making it a tourism hotspot for a diverse range of travellers, from dystopian movie buffs to drag aficionados. 

The Barossa Valley, SA

The Barossa Valley is one of Australia’s premier wine-producing regions, so if you’re a fan of vino, this is the place to visit. You’ll find it 50 minutes northeast of Adelaide, and there are more than 150 wineries and 80 or so cellar doors to explore. The region primarily focuses on big reds (mostly shiraz and cab sav), but you’ll also find a healthy selection of grenache, riesling and chardonnay. Big Australian wineries like Penfolds, Yalumba and Jacob’s Creek are located here, but we’d recommend visiting smaller producers like Charles Melton and Rockford Wines if you’re after true Aussie hospitality. 

Why go? Wine tours ,  scenic drives, gourmet food  trails

The Southern Highlands, NSW

Feel like harking back to simpler times? The Southern Highlands is the ultimate genteel getaway: full of quaint villages, winding walking trails, and Federation-era pubs for a drink along the way. Explore the lush idyllic hills of Kangaroo Valley, and take in the sprawling Minnamurra rainforest centre on the way. For lunch, the village of Bowral punches well above its weight when it comes to the region's culinary scene. For country coziness just a stone's throw from Sydney, wander up to the Highlands for a cuppa. 

Why go? Beautiful walks, cosy pubs, quaint shopping towns

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Australia in August: Winter's Last Hurrah

• ~ mins read

A trip to Australia in August sees the last month of winter. The mercury rises slightly in the south compared to July as spring hoves into view, but it's warm and dry in the tropical north. As southern sun-lovers scurry for warmth, expect crowding and price spikes in northern destinations. Thanks to varying climates, however, the sky’s the limit on what you can do: visit Queensland’s beaches, ski in the Australian slopes, explore wildlife in the outback , or experience the south’s winter charm.

• Nadine Zeià ner

Australia Weather in August

Australia in August weather is generally warmer all around compared to July. Southern cities like Hobart, Melbourne, and Adelaide bear the brunt of the winter chill, with Canberra seeing average temperatures of 32°F - 53° F. Coastal cities like Perth and Sydney are warmer with highs of 65°F. Desert regions like Uluru or Alice Springs are pleasantly warm but beware as temperatures plummet at night. It’s hot and dry in the northern regions; Darwin records average highs of 87°F. Join snowbirds at the beaches of northern Queensland, explore Northern Territory’s national parks, or go skiing in the mountains of Victoria. For a month-by-month rundown, read our article on the best time to visit Australia .

Weather in Australia in August - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit australia in august.

Australia in August offers both warm and wintry excursions, so your vacation can be anything you make it. The month offers travelers their last chance to immerse themselves in winter activities like skiing before the weather warms and the powder thins. Now is also the best time to explore the north’s national parks before humidity levels peak in the tropic north in September. Exploration can be a more difficult pursuit in the midst of choking humidity. All in all, it’s great to travel to Australia in September, and here’s why.

• Less rain and humidity: The north’s dry season offers very little rain, so you can hike without the hazards of slippery terrain and flooding. Less rain also means lower humidity, so you can explore without the inconvenience of choking heat.
• Northern adventures:  The northern regions, now in their dry season, are this month’s main draw. Now is a great time to explore the beaches of Whitsundays or Port Douglas, as well as Northern Territory national parks like Litchfield or Kakadu .
• Cheaper airfare:  Budget travelers rejoice. Winter means cheaper international flights to Australia. However, there’s high demand for flights to the north, so if you’re basing yourself in Sydney, make sure to book well in advance.
• Sports events: Australia is chockful of sports events and competitions like Australian rules football, the rugby union, and the rugby league. Spectate to your heart’s content or test your legs in Sydney’s City2Surf run held on August’s second Sunday.

Where to go and what to do

You’ll find plenty of things to do in Australia , especially in August when the climate drastically varies from place to place. Just like in June and July, the north is still this month’s main draw. Explore the stunning beaches of Port Douglas, Broome, or the Whitsundays. Now is also a great time to visit bucket-list destinations like The Great Barrier Reef . For top-notch national parks , head to the Northern Territory where World Heritage-listed parks like Uluru and Kakadu await. For winter excursions, the slopes of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory offer great conditions this month. You’ll find many things to do in Australia without having to venture very far. August is a great time to explore the indoor attractions of big cities like Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney. Find out how many days to spend in Australia for the best vacation here.

What to bring

When traveling to Australia in August, your packing list depends on what region you'll explore. It's hot and dry in the tropical north, so wear light and breathable fabrics. Desert destinations like Alice Springs have warm days and chilly nights, so dress in layers to adapt. Southern cities can be cold this time of year, so bring a light jacket or a winter coat.

Visiting the destination in August offers lots of choices for travelers looking for hot or cold excursions. In the middle of its dry season and with low humidity, the north’s desert, forest, and beach attractions steal the spotlight. Do note that August is the north’s peak season, so you’ll likely contend with crowds and deal with fully-booked accommodations if you don’t plan well. Elsewhere, the winter cold opens up lots of possibilities. August will probably be your last chance to engage in winter activities like skiing in the Australian Alps. Southern cities will also feature fewer crowds, so take this time to explore popular attractions. Thanks to cheaper airfare, August is also a great month for budget travelers! Contact our travel experts in the country to help you with a tailor-made trip to Australia . You can also browse through our list of available Australia tours in August .

Other Related Articles: Australia in July Australia in September Winter in Australia

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How to choose the best time for your trip to Australia

Aug 24, 2024 • 7 min read

Plan the right time for your visit to Australia with this seasonal guide to what's happening through the year. davidf/Getty Images

As the largest island on the planet and stretching across several timezones, Australia has a range of landscapes that range from vast arid deserts and scrublands to lush tropical rainforests and sun-drenched coastal cities.

Each season brings its own magic, depending on where you are and when. Summer can either mean comfortable temperate days, blistering desert heat, or periods of extreme humidity and frequent rain. Similarly, winter can deliver snow or sunshine, depending on your location – and preference.

In short, the best time to travel to Australia depends on what you plan to do when you get there. From festivals and days at the beach to whale watching and wildflowers, here’s what you need to know to choose the best time for your visit Down Under.

December to February is the best time for major sporting events and festivals

Thoughts of Australia often conjure summer scenes of clear skies, brilliant sunshine and snorkeling along coral reefs. December to February brings the hottest months with the longest days. This is also the peak travel season, so come prepared for crowds and premium rates on accommodation, particularly during Australian school holidays (which typically run from late December to late January).

Incredible as they are, there are plenty of places beyond the beaches to enjoy summer in Australia. As the tropical north bunkers down for the wet season (with some remote regions such as the Kimberley all but closing up business until “the Dry” returns) this is the time to head south for festivals, sports and sunshine.

Big ticket events in January include the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne and the Sydney Festival , a visual and performing arts festival. Also not to be missed are quirky regional events such as Parkes Elvis Festival in rural New South Wales , timed to coincide with the King of Rock and Roll’s birthday.

In February, the world’s second-largest Fringe Festival (after Edinburgh) takes over Adelaide , while the streets are lined with glitter and rainbows for Sydney’s version of Pride: the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras . There are also countless outdoor music festivals (both ticketed and free) across the country during this time, particularly over the New Year’s holiday period.

March to May and September to November are the best times to combine an outback trip with a city break

The shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) can mean more rain in many areas, but much milder temperatures. This makes it easier to experience both city and outback life in one trip.

During these periods, you'll find relief from otherwise scorching outback temperatures, making it the ideal time to visit destinations in the Red Centre such as Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park . Meanwhile, hiking routes , including Central Australia’s Larapinta Trail, South Australia’s Heyson Trail and Cathedral Gorge in Western Australia’s Purnululu National Park , are a lot more manageable in the cooler months.

If you’re visiting the Kimberley between March and May, you may also be rewarded with glimpses of the waterfalls at the tail end of the wet season.

However, be aware that schools take two-week breaks, usually at the beginning of April and the end of September. Many Australian families take holidays during these periods, which can affect the availability and cost of accommodations.

June to August is the best time to snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef or hit the slopes

The winter months of June through August are generally the cheapest time of year to travel throughout much of Australia, with fewer tourists and better deals on flights and accommodations in most areas.

There are exceptions to the rule, though. The drop in temperatures and drier weather drives tourism to iconic destinations such as Uluru, as well as Cairns , Darwin and the Kimberley. It can also be cooler than many tourists expect, with temperatures in the Red Centre dropping below 0°C/32°F overnight – pack accordingly.

In Queensland , jellyfish – including the infamous Irukandji – are less prevalent during winter, which also means it’s an ideal time to snorkel or dive on the Great Barrier Reef .

If you’re planning to visit these areas, be prepared to jostle for accommodation as domestic travelers from the southern states also head north to escape the cold, with most school districts taking a two-week break at the start of July.

However, it’s just as popular to head into the cold. While neighboring New Zealand is better known as a ski destination , Australia also has fantastic snow experiences to appease powder hounds. New South Wales’ aptly named Snowy Mountains – roughly 490km (304 miles) from Sydney – is home to Perisher (the largest ski resort in the country) and the nearby Thredbo resort. In Victoria, you can hit the slopes 385km (239 miles) from Melbourne in Falls Creek or take to the steeper runs of Mt Hotham.

May to September is the time to experience Australia’s winter festivals

Winter doesn’t mean an end to the celebratory vibes. Instead, May to September is a flurry of activity in capital cities and regional hubs across Australia, with festivals to excite avid foodies, art aficionados, music lovers and more.

Alice Springs’ Parrtjima Festival kicks off the return of shorter days in April. The free 10-night festival celebrates First Nations culture with interactive workshops and performances and sees the MacDonnell Ranges transformed by an incredible light installation.

Next up is Hobart ’s subversive Dark Mofo festival – timed to coincide with the winter solstice in June. It’s one of the country’s most fêted off-season events, with massive bonfires, live music and performance art taking over the Tasmanian city. Dark Mofo is on pause for 2024 (scheduled to return in 2025), but daring visitors can still partake in the annual Nude Solstice Swim and Winter Feast.

Also in June, Sydney’s Vivid Festival draws visitors by the thousands for its light projections and a program of thought-provoking presentations. Similarly, Melbourne’s Rising Festival and Adelaide’s Illuminate both light up the long winter nights with bold projections and installations across the cities, alongside immersive free and ticketed events. Both are held annually between June and July.

On the other side of the country, foodies tuck into the season’s best at Truffle Kerfuffle in Manjimup, WA, followed by the Cabin Fever food and culture festival in July in Margaret River . Finally, if you’re in the Northern Territory in August, you might want to add the Darwin Festival of Arts and Culture to your itinerary.

May to November is prime time for whale watching

If you love marine wildlife, May through to November marks the best months to glimpse whales as they make their twice-annual migration along the coast. Starting in April, tens of thousands of these majestic mammals begin their journey north from their Southern Ocean feeding grounds. They breed and give birth in warmer waters along Australia’s shores, before returning south with their young.

The coastlines of South Australia, Tasmania and Victoria are some of the best places to see southern right whales, while humpbacks and the occasional orca put on a show along the east and west coasts. Western Australia is the place to spot elusive sperm and blue whales.

Another phenomenon you may be lucky enough to see in Tasmania’s southern latitudes at this time of year is the aurora australis or southern lights. Popular places to witness the dancing colors include Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park , Bruny Island and the secluded Bathurst Harbour.

August to October is the best time to see rare and endemic wildflowers

We know what you’re thinking. Flowers, for spring? Groundbreaking. But thousands of Australia’s wildflowers bloom nowhere else on the planet. Case in point are the flowers of Western Australia’s southwest. There are more than 12,000 species, 60% of which are endemic to the region. The Indigenous peoples of this region, the Noongar, acknowledge six seasons of the year, and August to October marks the transition to Kambarang , the height of the flowering season. This is celebrated at Perth’s EverNow Festival in October.

Other notable places to experience the wildflower season include the Blue Mountains and Booderee National Park in New South Wales and Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park in South Australia. Victoria also boasts numerous spots including the Grampians (Gariwerd) , which is home to one-third of the state’s flora and where the flowering season is known locally as petyan . The Dandenong Ranges are also a popular stop, particularly for those wanting to experience wildflowers and a winery or two of the nearby Yarra Valley.

At this time of year, you’ll find countless regional flower festivals across the country, alongside larger celebrations. Two of the biggest are Canberra’s Floriade (the largest flower festival in the southern hemisphere, hosted from September to October) and Toowoomba’s Carnival of Flowers in September.

This article was first published Mar 10, 2021 and updated Aug 24, 2024.

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The Wanderbug

Travel blog.

The 25 Best Places in Australia to Visit (+ What To Do & Map)

Australia is a country of superlatives. From the oldest living rainforest in the world, to the most isolated capital city, to some of the best wine regions in the world, there is a dizzying diversity of experiences waiting for travellers to Australia. The best places in Australia to visit range from the Great Barrier Reef & the Daintree Rainforest to the Great Ocean Road, from Sydney and Melbourne and Brisbane, to charming smaller capitals like Adelaide and Hobart. You can’t talk about the best places to visit in Australia without mentioning at least a few of the country’s dazzling islands and unspoiled national parks, like the Whitsundays, Wineglass Bay & Freycinet National Park, Moreton Island and Wilsons Promontory. Uluru is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Australia, but I’ll have to wait until my first visit (hopefully this winter!) to add it to my list. I’ve lived in Australia for nearly my whole life, and have visited everywhere on this list. There is always more to discover!

For each of the best places to visit in Australia, I’ve recommended the best things to do in each destination & some tips on where to stay, and how to get there.

If you’re planning your first trip to Australia, check out my itinerary for 2 Weeks in Australia for First Time Visitors or my 1 Month Australia Itinerary .

Map of The Best Places to Visit in Australia

1. the gold coast, 2. melbourne, 4. barossa valley, 5. freycinet national park, 6. brisbane, 7. cairns & great barrier reef, 9. the whitsundays, 10. the great ocean road, 11. perth, fremantle & rottnest island, 7. mornington peninsula, 12. adelaide, 13. the goldfields, 14. grampians national park (gariwerd), 15. townsville, 16. adelaide hills, 17. mclaren vale & fleurieu peninsula, 18. sunshine coast, 19. wilsons promontory, 20. launceston & the tamar valley, 21. waterfall way, nsw, 22. murray river & coorong, sa, 23. high country victoria, 24. byron bay, 25. moreton island.

How to use this map:

Click the white button in the top left corner of the map to see the list of locations, then click on any location to see it highlighted on the map. Click on the top right corner of the map to open a larger version in a new tab. You can also add this map to your Google Maps.

The Gold Coast is Australia’s most famous beach town, and a thriving city in southeast Queensland. The Gold Coast is home to miles of beautiful, deep sandy beaches and excellent surf conditions. 

Surfers Paradise is the most famous neighbourhood on the Gold Coast, and the most touristy, but you can find a much more laidback pace with equally beautiful beaches in Broadbeach, Burleigh , Mermaid Beach & Coolangatta.

What to do?

• Beach hop at the best beaches on the Gold Coast
• The short but steep hike in Burleigh Heads National Park
• Explore pristine Springbrook National Park (full day trip)
• Go whale watching between June-November

Where to stay

• QT Gold Coast is a fun, design-led hotel chain with loads of personality.
• The Langham is luxurious hotel stay, located on the border of Surfers Paradise & Broadbeach

How to get there

• Fly to the Gold Coast’s airport, Coolangatta Airport (OOL)
• Drive from Brisbane, it is approximately 100km south of Brisbane and a 60-120 min drive depending on traffic
• Alternatively, take the train from Brisbane (Roma St) to Robina or Helensvale & then catch a cab

Melbourne has long been considered Australia’s capital of culture, food, shopping & sport, and now it’s overtaken Sydney to become the largest city in Australia. Melbourne has strong European influences, which are especially evident in its cafe culture, diverse food scene and excellent, large food markets. Melbourne is best known for its vibrant laneways and hidden bars, cafes and restaurants, ever-changing street art, obsession with good coffee and its fervour for the AFL (footy), with nine teams based in Melbourne (half the league!). Northside neighbourhoods like Fitzroy and Collingwood are frequently recognised as some of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world.

Melbourne is the capital city of Victoria, and has the added benefit of offering a variety of day trip and side trip destinations which are very accessible – often less than a 2 hour drive.

• Visit the South Melbourne Market
• Visit Melbourne’s most iconic neighbourhoods : Carlton , Fitzroy & St Kilda
• Explore Melbourne CBD’s laneways & street art
• Visit the NGV , the best art gallery of in Australia
• QT Melbourne – A fun design-led hotel in the heart of the CBD
• Fitzroy – one Melbourne’s coolest neighbourhoods
• Fly to Melbourne International Airport. 
• Melbourne is a 2 hour flight from Sydney &  2.5 hour flight from Brisbane

Sydney is often mistaken as Australia’s capital city, and it’s easy to see why. Located on the east coast, Sydney has some of the most enviable natural real estate in the world, built around Darling Harbour and with dozens of coves, bays and beaches. It’s one of the most beautiful cities in the world, when you’re along the harbour or the coast.

A trip to Sydney is on most international visitors’ itinerary, and for good reason. Architectural marvels like the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge make a stroll around Circular Quay a jaw-dropper, Bondi Beach really is as beautiful as the hype leads you to believe, and there are dozens of scenic walks and viewpoints around the city to enjoy.

• Bondi Beach – Coogee to Bondi Coastal Walk
• Ogle the Opera House & Sydney Harbour
• Take the Manly Ferry to Manly, for an iconic crossing of the harbour
• Swim in Sydnye’s famous ocean pools, like Icebergs in Bondi, Wylie’s Pools and Bronte Pools
• The CBD is the best base for exploring a range of tourist sites
• Bondi is beautiful with lots of Air BnB options, but it’s inconveniently located for public transport, so you might rely on Ubers to get to other parts of town
• Fly to Sydney International Airport
• Sydney is a 1 hour flight from Brisbane & a 90 minute flight from Melbourne

The Barossa Valley is Australia’s oldest & most prestigious wine region, located just an hour’s drive from the state capital, Adelaide, in South Australia. There are more than 150 wineries in the Barossa Valley , 80 of which have cellar doors (tasting rooms) that are open to the public. Some of the grandest wineries are housed in magnificent chateau estates, giving it a European feel, in an Australian landscape.

The Barossa is famous for its signature, bold Shiraz, but don’t miss out on trying a Barossa GSM, my favourite wine from the region!

• Barossa Valley wineries such as Seppeltsfield , St Hugo and Yalumba
• Barossa offers spectacular restaurants, my favourites are Maggie Beer’s Farm Eatery & Vintners Bar & Grill 
• Get a new appreciation for fortified wines (port), one of the Barossa’s specialties
• Slip into the neighbouring Eden Valley for some world class whites
• Small towns like Angaston, Tanunda or Nurioopta are well located for winery hopping and have a range of B&B style accommodation
• Fly to Adelaide & hire a car to drive to the Barossa Valley, which is a 60 minute drive from Adelaide

Freycinet National Park is located on the east coast of Tasmania , Australia’s island state. Freycinet is most famous for the perfectly curved Wineglass Bay and the dramatic pink granite mountain range, The Hazards, but there are plenty of beautiful views, beaches and bays to discover.

Stay in a cabin at Freycinet Lodge for the best access to the national park, and for stunning views at breakfast, lunch and dinner from the lodge’s deck and restaurants.

• Hike to Wineglass Bay Lookout & Wineglass Bay beach , a steep but rewarding hike 
• Honeymoon Bay (no hiking required)
• Experienced hikers can try more challenging trails, we decided to skip Mt Amos because I’m very scared of heights, but it’s popular with experienced hikers
• Tasmanian wine tasting flight at Freycinet Lodge
• Freycinet Lodge
• Coles Bay is the small town outside the park, which has a wider range of accommodation options
• Fly to Launceston & drive for 2 hours 20 minutes (we went this way!)
• Alternatively, fly to Hobart and drive for 2 hours 30 mins

Sunny, sub-tropical Brisbane is the fastest growing city in Australia, and located in southeast Queensland. Brisbane is my hometown, and I love returning several times every year.

Australia’s third largest city has had a major glow up in the last decade, and is preparing to host the 2032 Olympics. A few days in Brisbane is best spent enjoying the laidback lifestyle and great outdoors, even in the heart of the city. Stroll along the Southbank Promenade along the Brisbane River, enjoy dinner under the Storey Bridge on the riverfront at Howard Smith Wharves, hop on a City Cat (high speed ferry) to zip up and down the river, browse Australia’s best designers on leafy James Street and explore the pretty Roma Street Gardens (where we got married!).

• Drink & dine on Howard Smith Wharves , Brisbane’s beautiful riverfront precinct
• Visit the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMa)
• Shop & stroll along James St, New Farm’s leafy lifestyle precinct
• Walk or jog along the riverfront through Southbank Parklands
• Fly to Brisbane International Airport
• Brisbane is a 1 hour flight from Sydney and a 2-2.5 hour flight from Melbourne
• The Calile , New Farm – An internationally acclaimed design hotel (#12 on World’s 50 Best), and a chic oasis in the heart of James Street. We stayed here for a week before our wedding, it was heaven!
• Hotel X , Fortitude Valley – A luxury design hotel, just a few blocks from the trendy Howard Smith Wharves precinct. Love the rooftop pool & restaurant here! The included a la carte breakfast is one of the best
• Voco Hotel , Brisbane – Well located for exploring the city or crossing the Victoria Bridge to Southbank

Queensland ’s ancient tropics are home to some of the greatest natural treasures in the world; The Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. 

Snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef is a bucket-list experience for millions, and the easiest place to do this from is Cairns, the largest city in the Great Barrier Reef region . Book a day trip to the Outer Reef to experience one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

The Daintree Rainforest is the oldest living rainforest in the world, and is a must-visit in the region. Take a guided tour on a day trip from Cairns to get the most out of your trip.

Cairns is a popular base, but for a more relaxing holiday destination stay in stylish Port Douglas or on the beachfront at pretty Palm Cove.

• Snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef
• Island hop to Green Island & Fitzroy Island
• Explore the ancient Daintree Rainforest
• Day trip to the mountain top, rainforest village of Kuranda 
• Palm Cove – a popular beach town, with a wide range of accommodation and beautiful beaches
• Port Douglas – A chic holiday destination with a range of high end resort style accommodation
• Cairns – The largest town in the area, with a wide range of amenities
• Fly to Cairns Airport
• Palm Cove is 30 minutes from Cairns Airport, transfers are available
• Port Douglas is 1 hour from Cairns Airport

Hobart is Australia’s smallest and southernmost state capital, located on the south coast of the island state, Tasmania . Hobart is a real charmer, with a small, walkable historic centre perched on the waterfront. Tasmania is renowned for its pristine natural environment, which includes some of the cleanest air and purest water – resulting in some of the most spectacular seafood, whiskey and wine you’ll find. Tasmania’s best restaurants are concentrated in Hobart, so make a few restaurant reservations before your visit.

• Visit MoNa , the controversial Museum of Old & New Art which put Hobart back on the map. Take the MoNA ferry for the most scenic trip to the museum.
• Coffee & breakfast at the Salamanca Markets , a regular market in historic Salamanca Place
• Explore pretty Battery Point, one of Hobart’s most historic neighbourhoods
• Sample world class whiskey at Lark Distillery , which has quickly made a name for itself on the international stage
• Feast on Tasmania’s spectacular seafood
• Hadley’s Orient Hotel is a charming, historic hotel in the Hobart CBD
• Somerset on the Pier in Hobart offers apartment-style accomm overlooking the marina
• Fly to Hobart. Hobart is a one hour flight from Melbourne

The Whitsundays are a dreamy archipelago of 74 tropical islands, off the coast of north Queensland. Whether you’re sailing, taking a scenic flight or island hopping, the Whitsundays is one of the most beautiful island chains in Australia.

The most popular islands to stay on are Hamilton Island, Hayman Island and Daydream Island, with a range of accommodation from family friendly to high end luxury. The crown in the Whitsundays crown is Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island, an uninhabited island with sparkling white sand beaches, which is a must-do day trip from wherever you stay.

• Day trip to Whitehaven Beach with Cruise Whitsundays
• Swim at sheltered Catseye Beach on Hamilton Island
• Hamilton Island has a range of accommodation options, including luxury resort qualia
• Hayman Island is home to Intercontinental Hayman Island Resort
• Daydream Island has a range of accommodation options, including budget and family friendly options
• Airlie Beach on the mainland has a range of accommodation, including hostels
• Fly to Proserpine & book a transfer to Airlie Beach
• You can book boat or helicopter transfers to most of the islands with accommodation

The Great Ocean Road is Australia’s #1 scenic drive, and stretches for more than 200km along the south coast of Victoria from Torquay to Port Fairy. The most famous landmark on the Great Ocean Road is the Twelve Apostles, a series of freestanding pillars that are crumbling into the sea. There is so much more to see along the Great Ocean Road though, with a number of other scenic viewpoints in Port Campbell National Park, and pleasant beach towns along the journey. In the hinterland, take the back rounds to chase waterfalls in Great Otway National Park. The Great Ocean Road is one of the best places in Australia for an epic road trip.

Many tour operators offer long day tours from Melbourne to the Twelve Apostles, the most famous natural landmark on the Great Ocean Road, but I’d strongly recommend taking 3-4 days to explore the region.

• See the Twelve Apostles & explore Port Campbell National Park
• Take in the views from Mariners Lookout, in Apollo Bay
• Spot koalas snoozing in the gum trees in Kennett River
• Chase waterfalls in Great Otway National Park
• Lorne Hotel in Lorne – A historic boutique hotel, that has been recently renovated. Lorne is my favourite town on the Great Ocean Road
• Apollo Bay – A range of accommodation options in Apollo Bay, which is approximately halfway along the Great Ocean Road
• Lorne is a 2 hour drive from Melbourne 
• Apollo Bay is a 2 hr 40 minute drive from Melbourne
• You’ll need your own wheels on the Great Ocean Road, and will spend time driving each day to explore the best of the region

Perth is the capital of Western Australia , and is located on the southwest coast of Australia, on the edge of the Indian Ocean. Visiting Perth is a 3-for-1 deal, with the charming, historic town of Fremantle and idyllic Rottnest Island less than an hour away from the city. It’s the best place in Australia to visit for an introduction to Western Australia.

There are 19 sandy beaches in Perth, the most famous of which is Cottesloe (also my personal favourite!). Spend a morning at the beach, the afternoon taking in the views over the city from the sprawling King’s Park and be back in the city for dinner overlooking the Swan River.

Fremantle is a perfect day or half day trip, with wide streets and immaculately preserved heritage buildings making it feel a little bit like a movie set. 

Rottnest Island, just off the coast of Perth, deserves a day of its own. Hire bikes and cycle between the islands stunning beaches and coves, like Parakeet Bay, Little Salmon Bay and The Basin.

• Beach hop in Perth at Cottesloe Beach & City Beach
• Spend a day in Fremantle, and visit the new Gage Road Brewery on the waterfront for lunch
• Spend a day cycling between beaches on Rottnest Island & keep your eyes peeled for the elusive quokka!
• Quay in Perth is well located near the waterfront
• Accommodation on Rottnest is available, but it notoriously hard to secure a reservation due to its popularity – good luck!
• Fly to Perth
• Catch the train from Perth to Fremantle, which takes less than 30 minutes
• Catch a ferry from Perth to Rottnest Island

The Mornington Peninsula is Melbourne’s weekend getaway destination of choice, located just over an hour’s drive southeast from the city. The peninsula is dotted with dozens of wineries and fringed with pretty beaches and dramatic coastal walks, creating the perfect recipe for a relaxing weekend away. This is one of the best places in Australia to visit for a weekend of wineries and beaches, a rare combination!

• Visit the best wineries on the Mornington Peninsula
• Spend a morning on Safety Beach in Droman a, a pretty beach lined with brightly coloured bathing boxes
• Hike the short but steep hike to Cape Schanc k, which I think is the most beautiful sight on the Mornington Peninsula
• Book a fancy dinner at Port Phillip Estate Dining Room or Audrey’s in Sorrento. Note that Ubers are not available late in the evening outside the main towns, so you’ll need to drive to Port Phillip Estate restaurant.
• Portsea Hotel – boutique hotel above the famous Portsea Hotel (pub). An iconic spot, and a gorgeous pub that goes off in summer
• Intercontinental Sorrento – the new Intercontinental Sorrento is a glamorous hotel destination with on-site bars and restaurants. Lovely pool area & on-site restaurant Audrey’s is divine
• Jackalope is one of the most talked about luxury hotels in Australia. It’s a perfect escape year-round, with vineyard views, a pool and hot tub. Read about my stay at Jackalope here.
• Hire a house – Houses are available for hire all over the Peninsula, which can be a good value option for large groups

Adelaide is one of Australia’s smallest capital cities, but it punches above its weight in food & wine, thanks to its proximity to some of the best wine regions in the country. The capital of South Australi a has a small and walkable CBD, with the highest concentration of excellent bars and restaurants around Leigh Street and Peel Street.

Don’t miss Penfolds Magill Estate, which is a short drive from the city. This is part of Penfolds original estate, and it’s the best place to experience Australia’s most prestigious wine brand.

• Visit the Harry Potter-esque Mortlock Wing at the State Library of South Australia
• Take the tour & tasting at Penfolds Magill Estate
• Get a roving breakfast at Adelaide Central Market
• Adelaide’s CBD is compact and walkable, which makes it a convenient location to stay

The Victorian Goldfields is a popular region north of Melbourne, and the stage for the 19th century Gold Rush that made Melbourne the richest city in the world for a time. The influx of wealth made the towns in the Goldfields some of the most beautiful country towns in Australia, and the largest towns Bendigo and Ballarat are beautifully preserved to this day. The Goldfields is one of the best places to visit in Australia for experiencing charming country towns,

The Goldfields also has its own wine region, which is particularly renowned for its distinctive Heathcote Shiraz. If you’re visiting in June, head to the tiny town of Heathcote for its annual wine weekend over the Kings Birthday long weekend.

• Visit Bendigo – Wander the pretty streets, visit the Bendigo Art Gallery and book for lunch or dinner at Masons , one of my favourite regional restaurants
• Visit Ballarat – Explore the pretty Ballarat Botanical Gardens, have lunch at Mitchell Harris Wines and visit Sovereign Hill , an open air museum that recreates Ballarat during the 19th century Gold Rush
• Heathcote on Show – On the Kings Birthday Long Weekend in June, local winemakers descend on Heathcote and take over public spaces with pop up wine tastings. It’s the best wine event I’ve been to, and I’ve been several times!
• Balgownie Estate – Balgownie Estate is a winery just outside Bendigo, with gorgeous cabins. I stayed here last time we stayed in Bendigo, and loved it!

The Grampians National Park is a favourite long weekend destination for Melburnians and keen hikers, located four hours drive west of the city, in western Victoria. The Grampians is a series of five rugged sandstone ridges, which creates dramatic scenery, waterfalls and plenty of amazing hiking opportunities. You’ll need to book well in advance to get accommodation close to the entrance of the park, in Halls Gap.

• Hike to the Boronia Lookout, for one of the most iconic views of the Grampians
• Hike to Mackenzie Falls & Silverband Falls
• Visit Mt Langi Ghiran’s cellar doo r, to try The Grampians wine
• Halls Gap – Book a cottage or B&B style accommodation well in advance of your trip
• The Grampians is a 4 hour drive west of Melbourne

Townsville is the largest city in Queensland’s tropics, located halfway between Cairns and the Whitsundays. Like Cairns, Townsville is a jumping off point for the Great Barrier Reef, which stretches along the coastline of northern Queensland. You’ll find a sunny, tropical and laidback town with plenty of natural beauty within a stone’s throw of the city.

Castle Hill, just a few crucial metres off mountain classification, is a beautiful pink granite monolith that overlooks Townsville. You’ll spot it from all over the city, glowing in the sunrise and sunset light and illuminated after dark by colourful lights.

• Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef on a day trip from Townsville
• Drive up to Castle Hill to take in the beautiful views over Townsville
• Spend a day at the stunning swim up pool bar at The Ville , which overlooks the Coral Sea and has serious Santorini vibes
• Snap on a snorkel & visit the new Museum of Underwater Art
• The Strand is Townsville’s waterfront precinct, and has a range of hotel accommodation and beautiful ocean views
• South Townsville has a number of hotel options, with plenty of amenities
• Fly to Townsville Airport

The Adelaide Hills is a charming hinterland region just 30 minutes’ drive from Adelaide, in South Australia. Explore the hills to find some of Australia’s favourite winemakers like Shaw & Smith and Nepenthe, dine in cosy old pubs and shop from the farmgate at Berenberg Farms.

• Stop for lunch at The Crafers Hotel , a gorgeous, old-world gastropub which is one of my favourites in Australia
• Wine tasting at some of the best wineries in the Adelaide Hills, including Shaw + Smith, Nepenthe and Cobb’s Hill Estate
• Stop in pretty Hahndorf, a 19th century German village 
• Stock up on gourmet produce at Berenberg Farm Shop, Melba’s Chocolate Factory, Woodside Cheesewrights and Chesterfield Whisky Firm
• The Manor in Basket Range is one of South Australia’s most memorable hotel stays, with accommodation in a castle estate built in 1935
• The Adelaide Hills is a 30 minute drive from Adelaide, which has the closest airport

The Fleurieu Peninsula extends south from Adelaide in South Australia, with dramatic coastline and world class wine region in the McLaren Vale. It’s an easy day trip from Adelaide, and a morning cruising alongside the peninsula’s beaches can be followed up with lunch and an afternoon wine tasting in the rolling hills of McLaren Vale. It’s easily one of the best places in Australia to visit to experience Australia’s excellent wine regions, especially as it’s such an easy trip from a major city.

• Wineries in McLaren Vale like Coriole and progressive Alpha Box & Dice
• Admire the larger than life D’Arenberg Cube & the sculptures by Salivdor Dali before wine tasting at D’Arenberg
• Drive along the dramatic coastline & take in the view of beaches like Port Willunga, Aldinga and Noarlunga
• Have lunch or dinner at Pizzatecca in McLaren Vale
• McLaren Vale is a 45 minute drive from Adelaide

The Sunshine Coast is a coastal region in Queensland, north of Brisbane, best known for its string of beach towns, including Caloundra, Mooloolaba, Sunshine Beach and trendy Noosa. It’s one of the best places in Australia to visit for beach hopping, with 36 beaches to explore.

Head to the Sunshine Coast to spend time on the beach and in the surf, to dine on the waterfront in Noosa, or to head to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland for scenic reserves and the Glasshouse Mountains.

• Visit the best beaches on the Sunshine Coas t in Noosa, Mooloolaba, Caloundra & Kings Beach
• Hikes in Noosa National Park
• Hike the Glasshouse Mountains
• Explore the rainforests & towns in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland
• Noosa is the most popular & trendy destination on the Sunshine Coast, with the crowds & price tag to match!
• Mooloolaba is family friendly, has a large beach and a range of accommodation
• Caloundra is also very family friendly and is home to pretty Kings Beach
• Fly to Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY) – A small regional airport, flying here may be more expensive than flying to Brisbane airport
• Fly to Brisbane Airport, drive 1.5-2 hours to the Sunshine Coast – the only caveat is that the Bruce Highway traffic can be shocking in peak season

Wilsons Promontory National Park is a beloved national park in Gippsland, in southeast Victoria. “The Prom” as it’s known, juts into the Southern Ocean and is the southernmost point of the Australian mainland. Come for more than 80km of hiking trails, white quartz beaches, and for your chance to spot Australian wildlife including kangaroos and echidnas. It’s one of the best places in Australia to visit for stunning coastal views paired with hiking opportunities, within a close range to a major city.

More than 50,000 hectares of unspoiled National Park makes it the largest coastal wilderness in Victoria.

• Hike Mt Oberon for jaw-dropping views over the coastline
• Beach hop at Squeaky Beach, Whisky Bay and Picnic Bay
• Spot iconic Australian wildlife like emus, kangaroos and echidna
• There is a range of accommodation in Yanakie, located outside the entrance to the National Park
• Camp in Tidal River Campground, as close as you can get to the action
• Wilsons Prom is a 3 hour drive from Melbourne, which makes it a very popular long weekend & school holiday destination. 

“Lonnie” as it’s affectionately known, is on the north coast of Tasmania and the second largest town in the island state – although it is still a small town by any measure! Launceston is a very pretty town, with a lovely laid back pace. It’s a short flight from Melbourne, and a great base for exploring the nearby Tamar Valley wine region. If you’re travelling to Freycinet National Park, stop for a night in Launceston on your way to explore this charming small city.

• Visit Cataract Gorge, a beautiful scenic reserve just a 4 minute drive from Launceston’s CBD
• Wine tasting in the Tamar Valley, Tasmania’s premier wine region
• Eat really well from dawn til dusk! Bread + Butter is a great spot for breakfast and Havilah is a stylish wine bar with an excellent, tightly curated menu
• Hotel Grand Chancellor has very large, comfortable rooms & is conveniently located in the Launceston CBD
• Launceston is a 1 hour flight from Melbourne

Waterfall Way is a scenic driving route in northern New South Wales, stretching for 200km between Coffs Harbour and Armidale. It’s considered the #3 scenic drive in Australia and yet somehow it manages to fly under the radar – I think it’s one of Australia’s best kept secrets! It’s one of the best places in Australia to visit for a scenic journey filled with national parks and gorgeous waterfalls.

Waterfall Way takes you through charming country towns like Dorrigo, Armidale and Bellingen and to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Australia like Dangar Falls, Wollomombi Falls and Ebor Falls.

• Waterfalls like Ebor Falls, Dangar Falls & Wollomombi Falls
• The Skywalk over the treetops in Dorrigo National Park
• Visit Bellingen, a charming hinterland township
• Fly to Coffs Harbour
• Alternatively, drive 5-6 hours from either Brisbane or Sydney

Murray River & Coorong is a rural region in South Australia , just over an hour’s drive from Adelaide. The region is one of the best places in Australia to visit for stargazing, as it’s home to the River Murray Dark Sky Reserve, a protected area of outsanding natural darkness. The Murray River is the second-longest navigable river in the world and the longest river in Australia. It stretches through three states, but in South Australia a trip to the Murray Region can include a night spent stargazing in the River Murray Dark Sky Reserve, one of the only of its kind in Australia. 

• Stargazing at the Murray River Dark Sky Reserve
• Admire a view of the Murray River from Fosters Lookout
• Visit Ngaut Ngaut Aboriginal Site on a guided tour to learn about the history & culture of the First Nations owners of the land
• We stayed in the Mannum Motel , in Mannum, which is the pick up & drop off point for our Dark Sky Reserve stargazing tour
• Fly to Adelaide. Mannum is a 1 hr 15 minute drive from Adelaide. Stop in at the Adelaide Hills along the way!

High Country is a picturesque corner of regional Victoria, filled with mountains, ski fields, rivers, lakes, valleys and wine regions.

Visit the elegant, historic town of Beechworth to step back in time as you walk down its grand streets & eat lunch at the historic Tanswell’s Commercial Hotel. Spend a day or two exploring the King Valley wine region , which was settled by Italian immigrants and retains its Italian influence, producing the best prosecco in Australia.

In the south, Nagambie & Strathbogie Ranges offer a weekend of food, wine & a relaxed pace only an hour from Melbourne.

• Wine tasting in the King Valley
• Experience true country hospitality in beautiful Beechworth, stop at Tanswell’s Commercial Hotel for lunch
• Hit the slopes at the skifields on Mt Hotham , Mt Buller and Falls Creek
• See Ned Kelly’s hometown at Glenrowan
• The King Valley is a great base for a weekend of wine & cheese tasting
• Beechworth is a thriving regional centre, with well-preserved historic streets and B&B style accommodation
• Farther south, Mitchelton in Nagambie offers luxury accommodation on a winemaking estate
• Destinations in High Country are 2-4 hours drive from Melbourne

Byron Bay is one of Australia’s most enviable addresses, with a dreamy coastal location in Northern New South Wales. Close to the Queensland/NSW border, Byron is to Brisbane and the Gold Coast than Sydney, Byron Bay is an ideal day trip or weekend from these cities.

Byron Bay was once a sleepy hippie beach town, but for the past twenty years its been a hotspot for cashed up citydwellers making a seachange. It may be busy, but it’s still just as beautiful.

• Watch the sunset over the ocean at Cape Byron, the easternmost point of Australian mainland. You can drive, or hike 3.7km up to the Cape Byron lighthouse for the best views
• Go whale watching to spot migrating humpback whales between June and November
• Hit the beach at Wategos Beach, Byron Bay’s prettiest and most popular beach
• Byron Bay has a range of accommodation, from hotels and apartments to beach houses for hire
• Byron Bay is a 2 hour drive south from Brisbane

Moreton Island is the third-largest sand island in Australia, and an adventurer’s paradise. Located just off the coast of Brisbane on Australia’s east coast, Moreton Bay is a popular weekend trip from Brisbane.

• Snorkel the Tangalooma Wrecks
• Picnic in Honeymoon Bay
• Swim in the Blue Lagoon
• Tangalooma Resort is the only resort style accommodation on Moreton Island
• Camping sites are available
• Houses are available for hire
• Ferries operate from Pinkenba in Brisbane to Tangalooma
• You’ll need your own 4WD (& be comfortable driving on soft sand) to be able to explore beyond Tangalooma on Moreton Island

Hello! I’m an Australian travel blogger, living in Melbourne, Australia. I grew up in Brisbane, studied in Paris, lived & worked in New York City and now live in Melbourne, Australia.

I love sharing specific and useful recommendations, itineraries and guides for the most beautiful things to see, do, experience & eat wherever I go.

My favourite travel destinations are Australia, New York City & surrounds, France, Greece & Japan, but I’m always excited to explore somewhere new!

The Wanderbug is reader supported. This site may contain links to affiliate websites, which means when you buy through links on this site I may receive a small affiliate commission at no cost to you. Thank you for your support!

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