best places to visit australia august

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.

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Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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

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Related posts, 7 reasons to visit the murray region in nsw, 8 amazing things to do in kangaroo island, australia, the 8 best day trips from melbourne (2024 guide), 7 thoughts on “the 30 best places to visit in australia (2024 edition)”.

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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8 of the most photogenic Australian spots to visit this August

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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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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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

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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.

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K'gari (Fraser Island)

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Kakadu National Park

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Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Queensland © Tourism Australia

10 Australian destinations you simply can't miss

As a first-time visitor to Australia, you'll be tempted to see it all – from our iconic cities to the outback wilderness. If you need to refine your agenda, here’s our list of the 10 most iconic places in Australia.

By Natasha Dragun

Australia is a vast country with no shortage of incredible destinations and experiences. Our eight states and territories stretch across an entire continent, so exploring them all in one trip isn’t always possible. Find out what destinations should be high on your bucket list with our list of iconic places you simply can’t miss.

Cairns and Great Barrier Reef Region

Anemone with clownfish, Frankland Islands, Queensland © Phil Warring

In the tropical north of Australia, the rainforest meets the sea and two World Heritage sites unite: the  Great Barrier Reef , the  Daintree Rainforest . Imagine lush jungles tumbling to the edge of secluded white beaches, the soft sand disappearing into world-class dive sites, and curious clownfish looking back at you from the colourful coral. 

When to visit:   The best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is between June and October, when the weather is just right. Though December to February brings the miracle of  turtle hatching  season.

Read our Cairns travel guide

Sydney Opera House, Sydney, New South Wales © Cultural Attractions of Australia

Australia’s largest city is one of the world’s prettiest. Much of its allure revolves around the harbour , a dramatic expanse that creates a sanctuary for some of the country’s best beaches . This is the Sydney you see on postcards, with the immense Harbour Bridge and shell-like fans of the Opera House skirting the emerald waters. More sandy stretches await along the coast, from Coogee to Bondi , attracting surfers and sun-worshippers alike. 

When to visit: The best time to visit Sydney is between October and May when it’s almost always sunny and the beaches are irresistible. The can’t-miss whale season, however, runs from June to September and sees up to 20,000 ocean giants migrating along the coast.

Read our  Sydney travel guide

Ulu r u, Red Centre, Northern Territory © Tourism Australia

This huge red monolith is a World Heritage site, and one of Australia’s most emblematic landmarks. r u">Ulu r u is literally the heart of Australia, and the ochre soil is as dramatic as the massive sandstone rock itself. You can cycle, walk, ride a camel or take a helicopter around the nearly 10-kilometre (6.2-mile) circumference, then dine under the stars on a sand dune – your meal featuring native ingredients and your view lit by an incredible glowing art installation: Bruce Munro’s Field of Light .

When to visit: The best time to visit Ulu r u is from June to August, when the desert is cooler and temperatures are milder. While the region is hot in summer, the mild nights and open-air dining make it all worth it.

Read our r u travel guide">Ulu r u travel guide

Hosier Lane, Melbourne, Victoria © Visit Victoria

This southern metropolis captures everything Aussies love most in this world – leisure, sport, art, music and coffee (just to name a few). In Melbourne , you can find eye-popping street art and a plethora of en vogue restaurants and bars. From hidden speakeasies to rooftop bars where you can sip a cocktail and watch the sunset, Melbourne is a trailblazer in the food and wine stakes. Once you've wined and dined, you can’t miss a road trip along the  Great Ocean Road . Just a few hours from Melbourne, wild koalas, impressive rock formations and endless coastlines await.

When to visit: The best time to visit Melbourne is between November and March, when the sun is shining and the events calendar is jam-packed with things to see and do. The Australian Open tennis tournament, held in January, kicks off the international Grand Slam calendar. 

Read our Melbourne travel guide

Perth and Margaret River

Olio Bello, Margaret River, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia 

Australia’s western capital is the gateway to some of the state’s most epic adventures – not least those involving food and wine. It’s a three-hour drive from Perth to the  Margaret River region, one of the few places in the world where wine grows within metres of the beach. The vineyards here are known for their cabernet sauvignon grapes, but take it from us, all the wines grown here are exquisite. There’s also a myriad of craft breweries, acclaimed restaurants , luxury hotels, spectacular forests and plenty to keep the kids entertained.

When to visit: The best time to visit Perth and Margaret River is between September and November, when the region is blanketed in native wildflowers. From January to March, the city comes alive with festivals galore, including Perth Festival  and  Sculpture by the Sea .

Read our Perth travel guide

Seal Bay Conservation Park, Kangaroo Island, South Australia © Ben Goode

This secluded island off the coast of South Australia is named after the (you guessed it) abundant local kangaroo species. But Kangaroo Island offers more than just ‘roos’! The island is a haven for all kinds of Australian flora and fauna. Think koalas, sea lions, echidnas, wallabies and dolphins – just to name a few. You’ll also discover an extraordinary array of breathtaking landscapes – cosy coves, towering trees and remarkable rock formations. When you’re done marvelling at nature, you can retire to the charming towns to enjoy a glass of locally produced wine paired with fine produce grown on the island’s farms.

When to visit: The best time to visit Kangaroo Island is in the summer months, between December and February, when it’s perfect beach weather. Yet, the mild winter months offer vibrant greenery and the perfect chance to do some whale watching.

Read our Kangaroo Island travel guide

Twin Falls, Kakadu, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Jewels Lynch

World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park offers a front-row seat to the dramatic wilderness of the Northern Territory. The park is a three-hour drive from the capital city of  Darwin and when you arrive, you’ll find woodlands, floodplains, mangroves, tidal mudflats and even monsoon forest. Stay overnight and see landscapes ranging from thundering waterfalls to rocky gorges. If you want a place to feel completely insignificant – in the best possible way – Kakadu awaits.

When to visit: The best time to visit Kakadu is in the dry season, between May and October, when the temperatures are cooler, while August to November is the best time to see crocodiles.

Read our Kakadu National Park travel guide

Roaring 40s Kayaking, Hobart, Tasmania © Roaring 40s Kayaking

Located on the island state of Tasmania, Hobart is the perfect place to pause, reconnect and take a breath of some of the freshest air in the world. Visitors can get a taste of the things that make Australia great, from fine dining and cultural attractions to stunning natural beauty. There's an endless parade of outdoor activities within reach of the city: epic alpine mountaineering, ocean kayaks and World Heritage-listed hikes . After a breathtaking adventure, reward yourself with the tastes of Tasmania at Hobart’s best restaurants or enjoy some locally brewed beverages at the irresistible bar offerings .  

When to visit: The best time to visit Hobart is during the summer months, between December and March, when the climate is warmer and the weather is more stable. Visitors in winter, however, get the best view of the Aurora Borealis , also known as the Southern Lights .

Read our Hobart travel guide

Greenmount Beach, Gold Coast, Queensland © Tourism Australia

If the Gold Coast enjoys a sparkling reputation, it's because there are 300 days of sunshine here every year. This golden city unites the things that make this country great: beautiful beaches , a blissful tropical climate, world-class restaurants and bars , and easy access to tangles of rainforest – you can be surfing one minute, then trekking half an hour later. The ‘Goldie’ is also home to a parade of theme parks and attractions , promising endless days of action and adventure for the whole family . 

When to visit: Though temperatures are great all year round, the best time to visit the Gold Coast is between January and May or August to December, when the weather’s pleasant and there’s hardly ever rain.

Read our Gold Coast travel guide

Broken Head Beach, Byron Bay, New South Wales © Destination NSW

There’s a reason why Nicole Kidman, Chris Hemsworth and Simon Baker (along with thousands of other lucky Aussies) call  Byron Bay home – it really is one of Australia’s most beautiful coastal coves. Nestled on the coast of northern New South Wales, Byron is tipped by a picturesque hilltop lighthouse (the mainland's most easterly point). In the town’s centre, you can get a tarot reading, take a surfing lesson , indulge in paddock-to-plate meals, or simply sip a local brew while spotting dolphins and watching whales on their annual migration. 

When to visit: The best time to visit Byron Bay is between November and February, when it’s all sun, fun and blue skies. While the best time for whale watching in Byron is from May to September.

Read our   Byron Bay travel guide

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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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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. 

You might also like the:

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

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

Fitzroy Island

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

The Best Places To Visit In New South Wales

Nambucca heads.

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

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

Lord Howe Island

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

Brunswick Heads

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

Lennox Head

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

Crescent Head

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

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

Coonabarabran

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

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

The Best Places To Visit In South Australia

Flinders ranges.

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

The Breakaways

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

Eyre Peninsula

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

Fleurieu Peninsula

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

Kangaroo Island

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

The Best Places To Visit In Western Australia

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

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

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

The Kimberley Region

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

Esperance 

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

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

Rottnest Island 

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

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

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

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

The Best Places To Visit In The Northern Territory

Bitter springs.

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

Dhambaliya/Bremer Island 

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

Tiwi Islands

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

Alice Springs/Mparntwe

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

Litchfield National Park

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

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

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

The Best Places To Visit In Victoria

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

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

Yarra Valley

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

Mallacoota 

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

Mount Buller

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

Queenscliff

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

Johanna Beach

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

The Best Places To Stay In Tasmania

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

Bicheno 

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

Bruny Island

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

Flinders Island

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

Freycinet Peninsula

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

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

Image credit: Ben Carless | Unsplash

Urban List Best Of has our highest stamp of approval—curated lists of the very best recommendations for you to eat, do, see, buy or book, carefully chosen by our Editors.

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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

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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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 🙂

Australia In August | Weather, Things To Do, Places To Visit

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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 10 best places to travel in August

Editor's Note

August is here, and while some might see it as summer's swan song, it's also prime time for the ultimate getaway. Whether you're dreaming of sipping cocktails on a beach that feels like it's from a postcard brought to life, hiking trails that make you question your fitness choices, or simply finding a spot where Wi-Fi signals dare not tread — this is your month.

No more debating between yet another weekend of backyard barbecues or finally using those vacation days. August is your last call for summer escapades before pumpkin spice takes over our lives. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen and let's make this August one for the books. We've got the ultimate list of 10 places to travel this August that'll have you booking flights faster than you can say "out of office."

Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara , otherwise known as the American Riviera, is the ultimate destination this August. From July 31 to Aug. 4, the city celebrates the 100th anniversary of Old Spanish Days, or Fiesta. This beloved festival transforms Santa Barbara into a vibrant tapestry of cultural activities, featuring lively performances, bustling markets, spirited parties and delectable cuisine, all of which honor the town's Indigenous, Spanish and Mexican influences. But the excitement doesn't stop there. August also marks the start of harvest season in the wine regions throughout the county, which are renowned for world-class grapes and top-notch producers. With a warmer summer predicted, it's the perfect time to explore lush vineyards, witness the harvest and indulge in some of the fine wines produced there.

TPG tip : For a luxurious stay, book a room at El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel for around $1,137 per night. For a cheaper option, stay at The Leta Santa Barbara Goleta, Tapestry Collection by Hilton from $227 or 72,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Bristol, Virginia

Why Bristol? Country music is trending, and this is one of its hometowns. This year, Bristol and its surroundings are buzzing with celebrations, including the 50th anniversary of the historic Carter Family Fold in August. This event promises unforgettable performances and a deep dive into country music history. But that's not all. Nestled in the picturesque Appalachian Mountains, Bristol offers ample opportunities for outdoor adventures. Hike scenic trails, explore lush forests or take a leisurely drive through breathtaking mountainscapes. The city also boasts a vibrant arts scene, a charming downtown area with unique shops and delightful local eateries.

TPG tip : Stay at The Sessions Hotel, which is part of Marriott's Tribute Portfolio, from $190 or 39,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

This summer, the historic city is hosting the 75th edition of the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, an event that blends theater, music and dance. From July 10 to Aug. 25, immerse yourself in Croatia's premier cultural institution, offering top-quality performances, such as classical concerts and contemporary dance shows, in a stunning setting. Dubrovnik isn't just about culture, though. Its historic charm, beautiful architecture and gorgeous coastal views make it an ideal summer destination. Stroll along the ancient city walls, get lost in the enchanting Old Town or swim in the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Head out of town to explore the serene beaches and scenic hiking trails, many of which lie just outside the city. And don't miss visiting local wineries and presses to taste exquisite Croatian wines and olive oils.

TPG tip : Book a room at the Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik from $532 or 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

If you're looking to beat the heat this August, the Patagonia region in Argentina and Chile offers a perfect escape. While much of the world is sweating it out, you can enjoy the crisp, cool air of a Patagonian winter. Imagine hitting the slopes for skiing, snowboarding or snowshoeing in the majestic Andes. The landscapes are nothing short of breathtaking, with snowcapped peaks, frozen lakes and vast glaciers like Perito Moreno, and the stunning Torres del Paine rock formation. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled to spot pumas, guanacos and various birds, with the added bonus of possibly seeing southern right whales off the coast. One of the best parts? The peaceful solitude. With fewer tourists around, you'll often have stunning vistas and trails all to yourself. Plus, you can immerse yourself in local culture during events like the Festival de la Nieve in Bariloche, where music, dance and winter sports come together for a truly unique experience. So, swap the summer swelter for Patagonia's cool and captivating charm.

TPG tip : For some of the most incredible views from bed, stay at The Singular Patagonia for around $370 per night.

Kyoto, Japan

Experience the beauty and tranquility of Kyoto in August, a time when the city's traditional culture and natural beauty shine. The Gozan no Okuribi (or Daimonji) festival on Aug. 16 is a highlight, featuring five giant bonfires lit on the mountains surrounding Kyoto to mark the end of the Obon season. Explore Kyoto's stunning temples, traditional tea houses and beautiful gardens. Wander through the bamboo groves of Arashiyama, visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its vermillion torii gates or take a leisurely stroll along the tree-lined, canal-side Philosopher's Path.

TPG tip : Stay at ANA Crowne Plaza Kyoto for around $115 or 22,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Escape the Mediterranean crowds and head to one of Europe's most affordable summer destinations. August brings the vibrant Prague Pride, one of the Czech Republic's biggest cultural events, attracting around 90,000 visitors across 150 events. The 14th annual festival runs from Aug. 5-11, with the parade on the final day. Expect film screenings, performances, sports, discussions, concerts, picnics and parties, all themed around family. The parade kicks off at Wenceslas Square with a DJ and heads to Letna Park for a lively party. For the history buffs, Prague is a treasure trove of historic sites like the medieval Old Town and majestic Prague Castle, too.

TPG tip : Stay close to the action at Almanac X Alcron Prague for around $180 per night.

Cairns, Australia

September might be just around the corner, but don't fret! Your tourist visa has been acquired, your flight has been booked and you're ready for touchdown in Cairns, Australia . Perfect timing. August in Cairns is graced with warm temperatures (63-80 degrees Fahrenheit, on average) and sunny weather. The Great Barrier Reef is at your doorstep, and the beaches of Green Island are ready to be explored. Imagine snorkeling by day, or sailing the coast, then walking the city's Esplanade Boardwalk by night, all with temperate weather to enjoy it all the more.

TPG tip: Book a room at the waterfront Hilton Cairns from $187 or 50,000 Hilton Rewards points per night.

Snowmass, Colorado

Snowmass, just 9 miles from Aspen , hosts a vibrant summer community and is a top destination for mountain biking. It offers captivating mountain views and access to 2.8 million acres of wilderness for activities and exploration. This August, it's an especially great time to visit as the iconic Snowmass Rodeo celebrates its 50th anniversary with a newly unveiled $6 million arena and a grand new entrance into Snowmass Village. Every Wednesday through Aug. 21, experience this beloved Western tradition with authentic cowboys and cowgirls competing in barrel racing, saddle bronc, bull riding and more. Unique acts will debut each week, and a special evening July 3 will commemorate 50 years of Snowmass Western Heritage.

TPG tip : Stay at Viceroy Snowmass for around $365 per night.

Edinburgh in August is a cultural haven with the world-renowned Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the largest arts festival in the world. From Aug. 2-26, the city is alive with thousands of performances spanning theater, comedy, dance, music and more. The historic city provides a stunning backdrop for the festivities, with its medieval Old Town, neoclassical New Town and the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Beyond the festival, explore the Royal Mile, hike up Arthur's Seat for panoramic views or enjoy a dram of whisky at a local pub.

TPG tip : Stay at W Edinburgh from $388 or 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

On the northern tip of Serengeti National Park runs the Mara River. August is the ideal time to book a safari so you can stake a place out near the banks of the river and witness the awe of the Great Migration. Wildebeests, zebras, gazelles and myriad other animals cross the waterway daily as they migrate along with the sources of water and food. And the predators know it. You might see lions, cheetahs, leopards and crocodiles on the prowl, waiting for their next, unsuspecting meal. Consider Kogatende as your resting place. You'll experience better viewpoints and access to the majestic event than if you were camped in the Maasai Mara in Kenya with the rest of August's tourists.

TPG tip: Book a room at the Melia Serengeti Lodge Melia Collection from $1,486 per night, based on double occupancy.

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

25 Best Places to Visit in Australia

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on June 17, 2024

Located between the Pacific and Indian Oceans, Australia is the world’s largest island and its smallest continent. There’s room to move in the Land Down Under, and with so many sights to discover and enjoy, there’s a great incentive to go on a walkabout adventure. Whether exploring the traditional lifestyle of the nation’s Aboriginal people, relaxing on a sun-kissed beach or reveling the night away in a city hot spot, Australia has something special to offer every visitor.

With amazing national parks dotted around the country and some fantastic islands, visitors to Australia can be off exploring the delights of Tasmania one minute and Kakadu and Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks the next.

On top of this, the beautiful beaches and turquoise waters that line its shores are home to the jaw-dropping Great Barrier Reef; one of the miracles of the natural world and one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations. With loads of great things to see and do, you’ll have your job cut out trying to fit everything into your trip!

25. Canberra [SEE MAP]

Having started life as a planned city back in 1913, Australia’s capital Canberra is slowly but surely growing into a lively and lovely place. Affectionately (and at times derisively) nicknamed the ‘bush capital’, the city lies amidst stunning nature reserves and low-lying mountain ranges in the north of the Australian Capital Territory.

Once the home solely of politicians and civil servants, the now thriving metropolis is home to world-class museums, art galleries, and national monuments. All kinds of shops, restaurants and bars abound, and its large student body means there’s a pounding nightlife scene. Despite its youth, the city has lots of interesting historical sights; many of these relate to its parliament and governmental institutions.

Due to its remote and rural setting, the city is also a fantastic place for exploring the great outdoors. Its nearby nature reserves are wonderful to hike and cycle around, as are Canberra’s numerous parks, gardens, and human-made lakes.

24. The Pinnacles [SEE MAP]

Located within Nambung National Park, The Pinnacles can be found not far from the small town of Cervantes in Western Australia. Due to their remote setting, the spectacular limestone formations largely remained unknown until 1967, when a reserve was formed to protect the prominent pillars.

Rising dramatically out of the desert floor, The Pinnacles resemble weathered tombstones and number in the thousands. Together, they make for an incredible sight as sand from the coastal dunes constantly blows through the otherworldly looking landscape.

While debates are ongoing as to how their distinctive shapes formed, it is generally agreed that they are made out of the limestone from seashells as the region used to be submerged millennia ago. Now, The Pinnacles make for a popular tourist attraction. Western grey kangaroos can often be spotted between them, as well as the occasional emu, dingo, and honey possum.

23. Gold Coast [SEE MAP]

Blessed with year-round warm weather and sunny skies, Australia’s glimmering Gold Coast lies just to the south of Brisbane on Queensland’s southeastern coastline. The coastal city is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the country thanks to its lively yet laid-back vibe and alluring sun, sea, and surf.

Surfers Paradise is the area most people flock to. ‘The capital of the Gold Coast’ is home to large shopping malls and pounding nightclubs as well as countless restaurants, bars, and accommodation options. Glittering high rises tower above its expansive beach, which is great for sunbathing, swimming and watersports.

While it is often called a tacky tourist-trap, the Gold Coast has loads going for it, with beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets a given. In addition, it also boasts exhilarating amusement parks, water parks, and nature reserves, while its surf breaks are out of this world.

22. Alice Springs [SEE MAP]

Located almost slap bang in the center of Australia, Alice Springs lies in the Northern Territory’s endless outback, more than 1,500 kilometers from the nearest city. While it certainly takes some getting to, the remote rural town is perfectly placed for exploring the Red Centre.

Although there is not much going on in the town itself, Alice Springs is a great place to visit if you want to delve into the Aborigines’ rich history, heritage, and culture. It is home to a number of superb museums and indigenous Australian art galleries, as well as a large Aboriginal population. In addition, it has plenty of restaurants, bars, and hotels for visitors to choose from.

Its main draw, however, are the awe-inspiring desert landscapes, rock formations, and gorges that lie all around it. While the iconic Uluru attracts the most visitors with its distinctive ruddy hue and hulking great landmass, the Kata Tjuta rock formations also make for a spectacular sight, as do the gaping chasms of Kings Canyon.

21. Karijini National Park [SEE MAP]

The second-largest national park in Western Australia, Karijini lies about a thousand kilometers to the north of the state’s capital, Perth. Centered around the Hamersley Ranges, it is very mountainous and known for the gorgeous gorges, slot canyons, and waterfalls that dot its confines.

Rising above the dark red hues of its rugged landscapes are the three highest peaks in the west of Australia. These make for some fantastic hiking, as do the narrow gorges and precipitous chasms snaking beneath them. Punctuating its semi-arid terrain are a series of hidden water holes and glittering waterfalls, which are amazingly refreshing to swim or bathe in after a dusty walk.

Besides the stunning scenery, Karijini National Park is home to more than 800 different plant species, as well as lots of incredible wildlife. While exploring the nature reserve, visitors may catch a glimpse of wallabies, echidnas, and red kangaroos.

20. Darwin [SEE MAP]

Hugging the coastline of Australia’s Top End, the region encompassing the Northern Territory, Darwin has long been the most international of the country’s major cities. Its close proximity to other countries in the Indian Ocean has made the city a transportation hub since its earliest days. Devastated during World War II and again in 1974 when struck by Cyclone Tracy, Darwin is a resilient town with a spirit that can’t be defeated. Today, the city of around 75,000 people is a popular holiday destination.

Darwin’s main natural attraction is its wide sandy beach lined with open-air beer bars, seafood restaurants and multinational shops. Twice the size of Sydney Harbor, Darwin Harbor attracts visitors too.

Cruises lasting two to 12 hours are available for explorations of the region’s mangrove forest. In the evening, locals and visitors stroll down the city’s esplanade to enjoy films at the Deckchair Cinema, a large open-air theater located on the banks of harbor.

Darwin is also the hub for tours to famous Kakadu National Park as well as Litchfield National Park and Katherine Gorge. Whether watching crocodiles cavort in Crocodylus Park, cruising to the Aboriginal-owned Tiwi Islands or relaxing on the beach, there’s always something new to experience in tropical Darwin.

19. Daintree Rainforest [SEE MAP]

Lying on the northeast coast of Australia in a national park of the same name, Daintree is one of the world’s oldest and most diverse tropical rainforests. Located in the state of Queensland, its fantastic fauna and flora and ancient ecosystems are incredible to explore, and home to lots of wildlife.

Daintree doesn’t consist solely of lush and verdant rainforest, but also includes rugged mountains, teeming rivers, rich coral reef systems, and beautiful beaches. Of these, Cape Tribulation is considered to boast some of the best white sandy beaches in Australia.

Best accessed from Cairns, around a three-hour drive away, Daintree Rainforest is a nature lover’s delight and has lots of fun outdoor activities for visitors to try. Besides hiking amid the dense undergrowth and going bird or wildlife watching, popular pastimes include paddleboarding, ziplining through the canopy, and cruising along one of its rivers.

18. Byron Bay [SEE MAP]

The easternmost point of Australia’s mainland, Byron Bay lies in the state of New South Wales, just off the Pacific Highway that connects Brisbane to Sydney. Famed for its idyllic beaches, fantastic surf spots, and lovely laid-back lifestyle, the beautiful beachside town is one of the nation’s most popular tourist destinations.

While the town itself hosts a number of arts and culture festivals throughout the year, as well as weekly farmers’ markets, most people visit for its scenic setting and wealth of outdoor activities. Besides lounging on any one of its wonderful beaches, visitors can enjoy scuba diving, surfing, and whale-watching offshore, with skydiving and yoga also popular.

Due to Byron Bay’s alternative vibe and rugged beauty, everyone from ageing hippies and artists to surfers, business people, and families have migrated to the town. As such, lots of trendy bars and restaurants have sprung up, as well as little art galleries and all types of accommodation options.

17. Fraser Island [SEE MAP]

Separated from the mainland of Australia by the Great Sandy Strait, Fraser Island lies just off the Queensland’s southeast coast. Stretching for over a hundred kilometers, the world’s largest sand island is a popular place to visit due to its beautiful scenery and outstanding natural sights.

While idyllic white sandy beaches and crumbling sand cliffs line its shores, lush rainforests, dense mangroves, and epic coastal dune systems can be found dotted here and there. In addition, more than a hundred glittering freshwater lakes punctuate its picture-perfect landscapes, with Lake Wabby and Lake MacKenzie two of the most popular.

Much of the stunning scenery lies within Great Sandy National Park, which is home to all kinds of birds and mammals, such as dingoes, dolphins, wallabies, and whales. Besides wildlife watching, Fraser Island also has lots of great hiking, swimming, and watersports for visitors to enjoy, and camping beneath the stars is always a memorable experience.

16. Broome [SEE MAP]

Perched on a small peninsula that juts into the Indian Ocean, the small, scenic and secluded town of Broome is located on the northern coast of Western Australia. Lying more than 2,000 kilometers from both Darwin and Perth, the two nearest cities, the remote beach resort and pearling town acts as a gateway to the region’s riches.

The most popular place to relax and unwind in Broome is Cable Beach, which is widely thought to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia. Besides sunbathing on its white sands and bathing in its turquoise waters, visitors can enjoy cocktails and spa packages at its luxury resorts, as well as sunset camel rides along the beach.

More active holidaymakers can visit the fantastic rock formations at Entrance Point and the red cliffs and dinosaur footprints at Gantheaume Point; both of which lie nearby. Further afield are the breathtaking Horizontal Falls, with other wonderfully wild and untouched landscapes dotted about the Dampier Peninsula and the Kimberley Region.

15. Cairns [SEE MAP]

For its tropical climate, easy-going ambiance and close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is one of Australia’s most popular vacation destinations. Located on the northwest corner of Australia, Cairns is a provincial but stylish city with a population of around 150,000 people.

The city is bordered by mountains and the Coral Sea and is surrounded by sugar cane plantations and rainforest. There are enough good bars, restaurants and shopping options to keep visitors entertained before they head off into the stunning nature nearby.

Instead of a beach, Cairns features a saltwater lagoon in the center of the city. The Cairns Esplanade along the shore is lined with trendy cafés, bars and boutiques. Numerous beaches are located just to the north of the city and are easily accessible by bus or car. The City Botanic Gardens features plants used by Aboriginal people. Opposite the gardens, a boardwalk leads visitors through the rainforest to the Centenary Lakes, a habitat for crocodiles.

Opportunities for adventure sports abound in Cairns and range from snorkeling and scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef to skydiving and whitewater rafting. The Daintree Rainforest to the north of Cairns is considered the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, and a hike along an aerial walkway over the forest is an experience that many visitors won’t want to miss.

14. Kings Canyon [SEE MAP]

Lying in Watarrka National Park in Australia’s Northern Territory, Kings Canyon is sure to impress with its staggering size, scale, and stunning scenery. One of the region’s main attractions, the gaping gorge was formed more than 400 million years ago as the ruddy-colored sandstone eroded.

Cutting through the desolate desert landscapes, the colossal canyon’s walls tower over a hundred meters in height, with a small creek and sparse vegetation down below. There are jagged cliffs, interesting rock formations, and beautiful scenery to spy, whether you’re strolling in the shade or hiking along its rim.

For the Luritja people, Kings Canyon has long been a source of water and a place of refuge and respite from the searing sun. It is still a sacred site to this day. Due to the infernal heat and cruel climate, it is well advised to bring lots of water with you when hiking or climbing around the canyon.

13. Adelaide [SEE MAP]

Situated on the eastern shores of Gulf St Vincent, Adelaide is the capital of South Australia. Adelaide is Australia’s fifth largest city, with a population of over 1.2 million. More than three quarters of South Australians live in the Adelaide metropolitan area.

The city is located on a plain between the rolling Adelaide Hills and the Gulf and is bordered by many of Australia’s famous wine regions. The Barossa Valley and Clare Valley regions lie to the north, the McLaren Vale and Langhorne Creek regions to the south and the cooler Adelaide Hills region to the east.

Nicknamed ‘the city of churches’, the lofty spires dotted about here and there add to the picturesque nature of Adelaide and there are lots of nice parks and green spaces for locals and visitors alike to enjoy.

Proximity to premium wine and food growing regions, as well as waves of immigration from Europe and Asia have created a unique multicultural gourmet food and café culture in the city. This culture is supported by Adelaide’s arts festivals held in March including the Adelaide Festival and the Adelaide Fringe Festival.

12. Blue Mountains [SEE MAP]

One of the most accessible and awe-inspiring of Australia’s natural wonders, the Blue Mountains lie just to the west of Sydney in New South Wales. Sprawling over a vast area, its majestic mountains, plateaus, and escarpments are lovely to explore and make for a popular day trip or weekend away.

Named after the misty haze that the oil from its endless eucalyptus trees give off, the mountains are home to lots of unspoiled nature and spectacular scenery. A myriad of well-maintained hiking trails and mountain bike paths weave their way here and there, with stunning views to be enjoyed from Echo Point and Govett’s Leap.

As the mountains have long been the home of the Gundungurra and Darug peoples, they are also a great place to learn more about Aboriginal history and culture. In addition, lots of charming towns and villages dot the land. Springwood, for example, is known for its art galleries, while Leura boasts cosy craft shops and sophisticated restaurants.

11. Great Ocean Road [SEE MAP]

Winding along the south coast of the state of Victoria, the 243 kilometer-long Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s most scenic drives. Completed in 1932, the highway was built by soldiers returning from WWI and is dedicated to those who lost their lives.

Running from the seaside resort town of Torquay near Melbourne to the small and quiet Allansford, the road passes epic limestone sea stacks, secluded coves, and spectacular surf spots. At times, it meanders through pockets of rainforest, fertile winelands, and endless eucalyptus forests, with sleepy seaside towns dotted here and there.

Renowned for its incredible surfing, Bell’s Beach is one of the most popular attractions, along with Great Otway National Park, which is home to lots of spectacular natural beauty. The Twelve Apostles make for a stunning sight: the crumbling sea stacks are constantly pummeled by the rough and treacherous waters of the mighty Southern Ocean.

10. Perth [SEE MAP]

The capital of Western Australia, Perth is very isolated from the rest of the country, yet is routinely considered one of the most livable cities in the world thanks to its laidback vibe, fantastic cultural sites, and a wide range of things to do.

Many of Perth’s attractions are located near the water, whether it’s the beaches stretching along the Sunset Coast to the north or the parks, walks and picnic spots edging the Swan River. Fremantle, known as “Freo” by the locals, is the city’s port, a bustling marina that has recently gained a reputation as a haven for artists and students. Cottesloe Beach, just a few miles north of Fremantle, is Perth’s most popular beach.

One of the largest city parks in the world, the thousand-acre Kings Park encompasses Mount Eliza, a hill overlooking the city, and boasts a botanical garden with aerial walkways as well as the State War Memorial park. The Perth Zoo offers visitors up-close encounters with kangaroos and other animals native to Australia. Ferry service in Perth takes visitors to car-free Rottnest Island or the closer Penguin Island to watch daily feedings of the flightless birds.

Whether swimming with dolphins, firing up a barbie on the river’s shoreline or exploring the Aquarium of Western Australia, the country’s largest aquarium, aquatic adventures abound in sun-and-sea-loving Perth.

9. Kangaroo Island [SEE MAP]

The third-largest island in the country, Kangaroo Island lies just off the coast of South Australia, around a 45-minute ferry ride from Cape Jarvis. One of the most popular tourist destinations in the state, its delightfully untouched landscapes are home to incredible scenery and an abundance of wildlife.

Everything from huge dunes and towering cliffs to large caves and remarkable rock formations can be found in its numerous nature reserves. These are home to echidnas, koalas, and kangaroos, while penguins, sea lions and dolphins can be spotted offshore. Its diverse landscapes lend themselves perfectly to all kinds of outdoor activities, with hiking, sandboarding and scuba diving popular.

Besides its ample natural riches, wildlife, and recreation opportunities, Kangaroo Island also boasts lots of delicious local produce and fine wines for visitors to try. These can be sampled at any one of its four main towns or at the small farms and wineries that dot the island.

8. Brisbane [SEE MAP]

A popular tourist destination, Brisbane is a lively, dynamic place that is bathed in beautiful sunshine year-round. It has a population of about 2 million people, making it the third-largest city in Australia, after Sydney and Melbourne. Located in the Sunshine State, many visitors stop by on their way to the fantastic resorts and beaches that lie to its north and south.

Set alongside the Brisbane River, the city’s fantastic climate means that outdoor activities are very popular here; you can take your pick from a huge catalog, with biking, climbing, and hiking featuring prominently. A fun and friendly city, Brisbane’s vibrant music scene has made it one of the music capitals of the world and there are lots of venues in town where you can enjoy a great show. With loads of brilliant restaurants and bars for you to choose from, Brisbane is not to be missed.

7. Tasmania [SEE MAP]

The island state of Tasmania may be isolated from the rest of the country but it still remains one of the best places to visit in Australia; almost half of its area is protected as the government looks to preserve the natural riches.

With desolate wilderness and alpine plateaus interspersed with stunning white beaches, waterfalls, and forests, exploring its terrain is simply mesmerizing. Taking a boat trip along its craggy coast is equally rewarding and you can even see dolphins, penguins, and seals along the way.

With lots of great local produce, eating and drinking in the capital city of Hobart is an absolute pleasure and the restaurants and bars are divine. The island also hosts an eclectic range of great festivals throughout the year, where you can enjoy local beer and wine or arts and music events.

6. Whitsunday Islands [SEE MAP]

One of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations, the Whitsunday Islands lie scattered off Queensland’s northeastern coast, surrounded by warm and inviting aquamarine waters. As it is part of the Great Barrier Reef, most of the archipelago lies within national parks, so stunning scenery and picture-perfect beaches abound.

Due to the abundance of underwater riches and colorful coral reefs, the Whitsundays are a great place to go snorkeling and scuba diving. Sailing around its 74 islands and islets is also very popular, as is lounging on its sun-kissed sands. In Whitehaven Beach, the archipelago boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

While the Whitsunday Islands are primarily known for their outstanding natural beauty, they are also remarkably home to some of the oldest Aboriginal archaeological sites in the country. As the idyllic islands are now mainly uninhabited and undeveloped with only a few resorts and campsites to be found here and there, it is best to arrange tours and activities in Airlie Beach on the mainland.

5. Melbourne [SEE MAP]

The capital of the state of Victoria, Melbourne is Australia’s second most populated city. Located near the southeastern tip of Australia on the large natural bay of Port Phillip, Melbourne is considered the nation’s cultural capital as well as an important port. Due to its high quality of life, citizens from around the world have flocked to the streets. Its multicultural population is reflected in the delicious cuisine and the unique neighborhoods that make it such a fascinating place to explore.

Melbourne’s City Center district boasts the most attractions , including the city’s most recognizable landmark, the Flinders Street Railway Station. The multiple clocks hanging over the Edwardian Era station’s entrance is a popular meeting spot. The skyscraper Eureka Tower features an 88th-floor observation platform, the highest in the southern hemisphere. Visitors can step out onto a glass-enclosed compartment for panoramic views of the bay and the green Dandenong mountain range beyond.

In the Carlton district, visitors can explore the southern hemisphere’s largest museum. The Melbourne Museum showcases the nation’s rich social history, from its indigenous cultures to its fascination with football and horse racing, and has extensive exhibits illustrating Australia’s natural history as well.

Visitors looking for outdoor activities can enjoy the city’s parklands, many of which are shaded by large, mature trees. For swimming and sunbathing, Melbourne’s bayside beaches are ideal. For a retro feel, Brighton Beach features colorful bathing huts. St. Kilda Beach is one of the most popular beaches, both for its swimming and for the clubs and restaurants that line the shore. From dawn to dusk, visitors to Melbourne will never run out of exciting things to see and do.

4. Kakadu National Park [SEE MAP]

Occupied by Aboriginal people for over 40,000 years, Kakadu National Park has over five thousand ancient rock art sites which are fascinating to visit. It is a place of immense cultural and natural significance. The park is huge and contains some stunning natural sights which make it well worth a visit; the Kakadu Escarpment is particularly breathtaking.

With diverse ecosystems contained within the park’s boundaries, you can be hiking through deserted sandstone escarpments one minute and bathing in waterfalls and pools the next, before later on learning about some of the ancient rock paintings. While it can get very popular, Kakadu’s huge area means that you can easily enjoy all the park has to offer in peace and quiet if you step off the beaten path a little.

3. Great Barrier Reef [SEE MAP]

The largest coral reef system on the face of the earth, the Great Barrier Reef is simply colossal. Located in the Coral Sea off the coast of Australia’s state of Queensland, the Great Barrier Reef encompasses a huge area of more than 2,900 coral reefs and hundreds of islands and cays. Formed by millions of living organisms over a period of millions of years, the Reef is now one of the world’s most diverse and complex ecosystems.

While always known and used by the Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal Australian peoples, the Reef today is protected by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. It is home to a remarkable array of marine life including 1500 fish species and 360 corals in addition to various species of whales, dolphins, marine turtles, sea snakes and birds, which breed among the small islands.

The best way to explore the Reef is by one of the numerous boat cruises that run along the northern coast of Queensland. The town of Cairns is regarded as the main gateway to the Reef, but other towns such as Townsville, Port Douglas, Yeppoon, Mission Beach and Cooktown also offer cruise operations.

Ranging from single day trips to multiple day voyages, these boat cruises usually anchor at certain stops to allow for snorkeling and diving. Other options for experiencing the Reef include underwater observatories, glass-bottomed boat tours and helicopter flights.

2. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park [SEE MAP]

World famous, spectacular Uluru is instantly recognizable due to its ruddy red hue; it is one of Australia’s most prominent landmarks. The immense rock is incredible to visit and the main reason the national park is such a popular destination. Its grandeur and uniqueness live long in the memory of those who gaze upon it. While Uluru is the main draw, the equally mesmerizing rock formations of Kata Tijuta are fantastic to wander around, and there are lots of activities for visitors to enjoy.

Owned by the Anangu Aboriginal people, the site is of great cultural and spiritual significance to them; you can learn more about their way of life at the brilliant cultural center. With lots of great walks, bike rides and tours, the astounding beauty of this national park really is awe-inspiring.

1. Sydney [SEE MAP]

Almost picture perfect, Sydney is a fantastic city with a lot going for it. A modern city with a long history, Sydney is defined by its scenic harbor. The region’s first inhabitants lived along the harbor’s bank for thousands of years. The harbor was also the landing site for convicts sent to Australia during the 1780s. Today, ferries take visitors for cruises under the famed Sydney Harbor Bridge and past the iconic Sydney Opera House.

Adventurous travelers can take a ferry to Manly Wharf where they can rent kayaks to paddle the inlets of Sydney Harbor National Park or sign up for surf classes at Manly Beach. The Federation Cliff Walk is a 5-km (3-mile) long walkway that starts at the Raleigh Reserve Park, providing spectacular views of the sea, harbor and the Macquarie Lighthouse, Australia’s first and longest operating lighthouse.

Sydney’s beaches are the perfect place to spend a warm summer day, to swim or just relax on the sands. The most popular are Bondi Beach, Manly and Coogee, although many others have their own charms.

See also: Where to Stay in Sydney

No visit to Sydney is complete without a tour of the Sydney Opera House. Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon and completed in 1973, the sailing ship-inspired performing arts complex is considered one of the world’s most distinctive architectural structures.

For adventurous visitors to Sydney, a heart-thumping climb on the harbor bridge is a must-do activity. For others, shopping at the historic Queen Victoria Building, hitting the clubs and restaurants the in Rocks district and visiting the world-class Taronga Zoo are can’t-miss activities. Visitors can count on cosmopolitan Sydney to accommodate every taste.

Map of Places to Visit in Australia

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9 Most Amazing Places to Stay in Australia

15 Best Cities to Visit in Australia

10 Best Islands in Australia You Should Visit

15 Most Scenic Small Towns in Australia

25 Top Tourist Attractions in Australia

10 Most Beautiful National Parks in Australia

7 Most Beautiful Regions in Australia

10 Best Beaches in Australia

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Reader interactions.

December 22, 2019 at 11:08 am

I had the opportunity to visit Australia in November 2019 and I will say Brisbane tops them all

July 27, 2017 at 10:36 am

Loved Steve Irwin and his daughter Bindi so we are going to Brisbane to specifically see their zoo. So hope it is worth the trip.

July 21, 2017 at 4:30 am

I really love Sydney its a very nice place and I really love the island over there

January 12, 2017 at 11:24 pm

Hopefully everyone will get their act straight and help keep the Great Barrier Reef from getting destroyed. I’m still hoping that I can get to experience this beautiful gift of nature before climate change and pollution destroys it!

September 29, 2016 at 11:05 pm

I highly recommend the Great Barrier Reef. Fly to Cairns and split time between Port Douglas and Cairns. You also have direct access to the Rain Forest. This is an amazing part of the world and a must see location.

January 16, 2016 at 6:21 pm

@Pete75 What area would you suggest for our first trip to Australia? We love to sight see and have outdoor adventures like snorkeling, rock jumping, zip lining and are up for new fun adventures too. We are planning our trip possibly late June. Any advice is appreciated

January 10, 2016 at 10:05 am

@deepak The Gold Coast? Are you kidding? The Gold Coast is the worst place in Australia by a country mile! It is a plastic and concrete abomination to be avoided at all costs.

August 12, 2015 at 5:41 am

I am surprised Goldcoast is not on the list and places like Alice Spring and Brisbane are within top 10. I think number 1 should be Gold Coast followed by Sydney and Melbourne.

August 1, 2015 at 4:45 pm

In 2013 I had the oportunity to visit Australia for the first time. What a good surprise I had! Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Heron Island. So many beautiful places! In march 2016 I’m going again and Hobart is in my list!

May 7, 2015 at 8:35 am

Tassie definitely needs to have more recognition. It is a part of Australia that is very different from the rest, especially other parts of Tassie, not just it’s capital, Hobart. Poor tassie always gets cut out from all those Australian souvenirs where it is in the shape of Australia, as it is an island state and often they just don’t include it inside!

August 4, 2014 at 9:33 pm

YAYAYYAYYA!!! Adelaide made the list and its al the top!! South australia is a beautiful state, most people disregard it and dont bother with it but it is a really nice city and the “outback” like the FLinders Ranges are beautiful!

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Melbourne in August: The insider’s scoop on what to do, see and experience

Things to do in Melbourne Best Time to Visit Melbourne Melbourne In August

As the last wisps of winter's chill dissipate, Melbourne transforms into a vibrant playground in August. The shoulder season brings a refreshing respite from the crowds, allowing you to uncover the city's hidden gems at your own pace. But don't be fooled – the cultural scene is about to ignite, with the Melbourne International Film Festival taking center stage. This is the perfect time to experience the city's renowned street art, live music, and coffee culture in all its glory. In this blog, we will guide you through the best experiences, events, and activities to enjoy in Melbourne during August, including tips on what to pack, where to stay, and how to make the most of your visit.

What makes Melbourne in August Special?

Pleasant weather

While other parts of the country are sweltering through strong summers, Melbourne in August offers a refreshing change of pace. Expect crisp, cool days with occasional rain showers, making it perfect for indoor cultural attractions or outdoor activities like hiking.

A great time to explore Australia

August might not be ideal for visiting Phillip Island, but it's a great time to explore other parts of Australia. With mild weather and fewer crowds, you can enjoy popular destinations without the peak season chaos.

Sports and cultural events

August is an exciting time for sports fans, with the Australian Football League (AFL) season in full swing. Catch a game at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground or Docklands Stadium for an unforgettable experience. Meanwhile, the Melbourne International Film Festival takes center stage, showcasing the best of local and international cinema.

Melbourne Weather in August

In Melbourne, August, the final month of the winter, is a temperate month with an average temperature that varies between 13.4°C and 6.6°C. August typically has a relative humidity of 76%. In Melbourne, there are 6.5 hours of average daily sunshine this month. This enhances the city's appeal and the various displays of vegetation that are present there.

Visting Melbourne in August: Things to do

Legoland discovery centre.

No matter their age, everyone desires to visit the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre in Melbourne. Kids, adults, and families who love to construct are all ideal candidates. In Miniland, Melbourne's top attractions, especially during August, are constructed entirely out of LEGOs. The Master Model Builder Workshops can teach you how to build a LEGO structure.

August Timings 9am to 7pm

Level 2/1341 Dandenong Rd, Chadstone VIC 3148, Australia Getting There ›

Phillip Island Nature Parks

Thousands of tourists from all over the world come to see the mating season of penguins in August every year. At dusk, crowd the viewing boardwalks at Phillip Island Nature Park to see them dash to their burrows on Summerland Beach. Witness that thrilling moment as the first young penguins emerge from the water and start to shuffle along a Phillip Island beach at sunset.

154/156 Thompson Ave, Cowes VIC 3922, Australia Getting There ›

Ballarat Wildlife Park

Get up close and personal with native Australian animals like kangaroos, koalas, and emus at the Ballarat Wildlife Park. Explore the park's natural habitats, including the Australian Walkabout and the Reptile House, and enjoy interactive experiences like animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours. With a focus on conservation and education, Ballarat Wildlife Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and families alike.

August Timings Daily: 9am to 5pm

250 Fussell St, Ballarat East VIC 3350 Australia Getting There ›

Melbourne Zoo

In the centre of Melbourne, explore a world of wildlife. In the stunning environment of Melbourne Zoo , you may find more than 250 species from all over the world. Wander across the beautiful rainforests of Asia, Africa, Australia, and even underwater. Especially during August when the winter is wearing off! Visit our underwater wonderland to view the famous Little Penguins of Victoria, Australian Fur Seals, and more!

August Timings Daily: 9am - 5pm

Parkville VIC 3052, Australia Getting There ›

Yarra River Cruise

Take a leisurely Yarra River Cruise to admire Melbourne's cityscape from a different perspective. As you glide along the river, you'll pass iconic landmarks like the Docklands, Federation Square, and the Royal Botanic Gardens. . Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including birds and fish, and enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Melbourne River Cruises, Berth 2, Southbank Promenade, Southbank VIC, Melbourne Getting There ›

Philip Island Cape Woolamai Cruise

Philip Island is a beautiful island located off the coast of Victoria, Australia. The island is home to many amazing natural attractions, including Cape Woolamai, which is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island. Visitors can take a cruise to enjoy the stunning scenery and wildlife that Philip Island has to offer. Cape Woolamai is located on the southern tip of Philip Island and is home to a number of beautiful beaches. The cape is also a great place to spot wildlife, including penguins, seals, dolphins, and whales.

Phillip Island, VIC, Australia Getting There ›

Healesville Sanctuary

Healesville Sanctuary is a not-for-profit conservation organisation located in Healesville, Victoria, Australia. The sanctuary works to protect and conserve Australian wildlife through education, research and rehabilitation programs. The sanctuary has grown to become one of Australia’s leading wildlife parks, providing a home for over 200 species of Australian animals.

Glen Eadie Ave, Healesville VIC 3777, Australia Getting There ›

Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs

In August, Peninsula Hot Springs, a day spa and natural geothermal mineral springs complex, is less than 90 minutes from Melbourne. Discover over 70 bathing and health experiences with worldwide influences seamlessly incorporated into the surrounding environment. Additional options include yoga, reformer pilates, body clay, fire and ice, aerial yoga, and several others.

140 Springs Ln, Fingal VIC 3939, Australia Getting There ›

Melbourne in August: Events to Look Out For

Melbourne International Film Festival 2024

August 8 to 25, 2024 Melbourne is honouring its 72nd anniversary in style. MIFF is back with a sizable lineup of acclaimed Australian and international films, illustrious speakers, premieres, galas, discussions, and special activities. The festival will hold screenings in suburban locations, the Victoria area, and Melbourne's central business district.

Queen Victoria Winter Night Market

June 5 - August 28, 2024 The Queen Victoria Summer Night Market is always bittersweet when it ends, but there is a bright spot: it signals the arrival of the Winter Night Market. On the main stage of the market, live music will be performed by a rotating lineup of local musicians and roving entertainers.

Melbourne August Essentials

Language English

Time zone GMT+10

Country Code +61

Socket Type I

Currency Australian Dollar ($)

August's lowest temperature in Melbourne is 6.2°C on average. With an average of 41mm, August's rainfall is typical. 13 days in total on average saw rain. Around 16.0°C is the standard maximum midday temperature. The sun will occasionally appear with 166 hours of sunshine throughout the entire month.

Melbourne Accommodation In August

The second-largest city in Australia, while lacking an expansive harbour, recognizable bridge, or opera house, rivals Sydney as the nation's commercial, creative, and cultural hub. Numerous factors contribute to this city of roughly five million people consistently receiving the title of "World's Most Liveable", including the enormous parks, inner-city beaches, excellent public transportation, and easy access to attractions throughout the state.

• Luxury - InterContinental The Rialto , Langham , Sofitel on Collins .
• Moderate - Lyall Hotel and Sp , Treasury on Collins Apartment Hotel , The Jazz Corner .
• Budget - Cosmopolitan , Crest on Park , Grand Chancellor .

Getting Around Melbourne in August

Trams are free to ride inside much of Melbourne. But be mindful of the limits. Melbourne boasts a robust and well-organized public transportation system. Commuters can use a Myki Card to access trams, trains, and buses. Mykis are offered as either a full fare or a concession. Ticket inspectors will not accept a student card or passport; a concession card issued by the government is required. Mykis can be topped off at 7/11 convenience stores or specialized top-up kiosks at tram stops and train stations.

Melbourne in August: What to eat

You can enjoy the Tzatziki dip without waiting until you get to Paros, the Greek island where it was discovered. The Tzatziki is readily available in Athenian restaurants and includes three healthy ingredients—cucumber, yoghurt, and garlic.

The supreme celebration of the fanciest mushrooms is held at the Collingwood restaurant, where guests will be served course after delectable course of truffley pleasures paired with fine wines. We advise you to eat these truffles while you still can because, if you don't realize, the truffle season ends in August.

Johnny Di Francesco's Margherita Pizza, which won first place at the 2014 World Pizza Championships, is topped with handmade tomato sauce, creamy fior di latte cheese, and fresh basil. The base of the pizza is absurdly thin, baked for 90 seconds at 400 degrees.

You may still enjoy a night of French dining and drinking at Voilà if Vue de Monde is a little too racy for you. A four-course dinner honouring the best of the wintry harvest, created by the night's two hosts, the chiselled French chefs Fab and Nico, includes a hearty pumpkin, cassia, and sorrel soup.

With three locations now available in Melbourne, it's more convenient than ever to sate your appetite for tender chicken. Four sides, four sauces, and 16 fried chicken wings are all included in the Baller Bucker. Order old bay fries, a roast yam salad, or mac and cheese. You can't have chicken without a pint, so Belle's Hot Chicken also offers a variety of beers.

Tips for visiting Melbourne in August

Keep these tips in mind when visiting Melbourne in August.

• Pack for the weather: When packing for Melbourne in August, be sure to bring warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings, as well as waterproof gear for potential rain showers.
• Buy a Myki: A Myki card costs $6, but the contactless ticketing system for Melbourne's public transportation system costs $1.5 billion and has been plagued by issues.
• Walking tour: -The greatest way to see Melbourne, if you can, is on foot, so lace up your boots. A walking tour is the best way to learn the city's history, find some undiscovered attractions, and get a sense of the area.
• Theatre is inexpensive: Melbourne has a modest but thriving theatre community. There may be a half-dozen major blockbuster productions and at least a dozen lesser ones throughout the city. Many performances have ticket prices well above $100, and there isn't a TKTS booth such as in London or New York where you may score discounted tickets.

Dev Ramkumar

Born and brought up in Mumbai, I am a content creator by day and a musician by night. My love for travel peaked when my music career took me to various parts of the country. Now, my dream is to explore the world, attend all kinds of music festivals, and experience the culture of each city I visit. My journey has just begun and I've already covered parts of Europe and Southeast Asia.

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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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12 best places to see on Australia's east coast

Mar 2, 2021 • 6 min read

Bondi Beach is one of the highlights of the east coast of Australia ©Getty Images

The ultimate Aussie road trip, East Coast Australia connects the Great Ocean Road with the Great Barrier Reef , with picture-perfect beaches, hip cities, charismatic wildlife and rainforests all along the way. There are many reasons to come here, and to linger, but none more impressive than the sheer natural drama of East Coast Australia.

Strung out for nearly 10,000km end to end, Australia’s east coast is, on land, a stirring succession of beaches, vast rainforests and alluring wildlife. Offshore, the Great Barrier Reef is a 2000km-long hyper-coloured haven for astonishing tropical marine life. There’s a lot to look at, but there’s even more to do. It could take a lifetime or, with just 10 days and a handful of airline tickets, you could taste a few of the east coast’s highlights from Melbourne to Cairns . The hardest part is deciding what to try first. To make it easier, here's 12 of the best places to see.

Editor's note: during COVID-19 there are restrictions on travel and opening hours may vary. Check the latest guidance in Australia before planning a trip, and always follow local health advice.

1. The Great Barrier Reef & the Daintree - Queensland

Best for ecotourism and astonishing marine life

The Great Barrier Reef and its 900 coral-fringed islands unfurl over 2000km along the Queensland coastline. This vivid undersea kingdom is an unforgettable world waiting to be discovered. And in Queensland’s far north, the Daintree Rainforest , one of the earth’s oldest, reaches right down to the shores of the sea.

Read more: How to have a sustainable visit to the Great Barrier Reef

2. Sydney - New South Wales

Best for iconic sights

Sydney is all about big-ticket sights – the Sydney Opera House , the Rocks and Sydney Harbour Bridge top most people’s lists. But to really catch Sydney’s vibe, spend a day at the beach. Stake out a patch of sand at Bondi Beach , slather yourself in sunscreen and plunge into the surf, or hop on a ferry from Circular Quay to Manly for a swim, surf or walk along the seasprayed promenade to Shelly Beach.

3. Great Ocean Road - Victoria

Best for scenic coastal drives and quaint towns

The Twelve Apostles along the Great Ocean Road rank among Victoria ’s defining sights, but it’s the getting-there road trip that doubles their impact. Take it slow along roads that curl beside Bass Strait beaches, then whip inland through wildlife-rich rainforest and quaint towns. Further west are pretty Port Fairy and hidden Cape Bridgewater. For the ultimate in slow travel, hike the Great Ocean Walk from Apollo Bay to the Apostles.

4. Byron Bay - New South Wales

Best for surfing, glamping and celebrity-spotting

Australia’s most easterly point, Byron Bay or Byron to its mates, is one of the enduring icons of Australian culture. Families on school holidays, surfers and sunseekers from around the globe, and those seeking to escape the rat race gather here, drawn by fabulous restaurants, a laid-back ethos, surf beaches and an astonishing range of activities. It also inhabits one of the most beautiful stretches of coast in the country.

5. The Whitsundays - Queensland

Best for sailing and turquoise seas

You could spend a lifetime exploring tropical islands and never find anywhere with the sheer magnificence of the Whitsundays . Travellers of all monetary persuasions launch yachts from party town Airlie Beach and elsewhere to drift between these lush green isles in a slow search for paradise (you’ll probably find it in more than one place). Sheltered palm-fringed coves, some of the world’s most stunning beaches, turquoise seas – what more could you wish for?

6. Melbourne - Victoria

Best for music, art, cafe culture and food

Whether it’s the arts, cafe culture, the restaurant scene or big international sports events, Melbourne is a happening place. The next best restaurant, chef, cafe, barista or hidden bar may be the talk of the town, but some things endure: the gritty street-art laneways; galleries and dynamic cultural life; the leafy parks and gardens in the inner city; the trams to sea-breezy beaches; and the passionate allegiances that living in such a sports-mad city brings.

7. The Sunshine Coast - Queensland

Best for pretty villages and glamorous resorts

They don’t call it the Sunshine Coast for nothing. Sun-soaked beaches, the glamorous resort town of Noosa , Noosa National Park , Australia Zoo ... Few regions pack so many attractions into such a small space. Surfers come here for the long, rolling waves and, in the national park, lovely hiking trails criss-cross the park and take you within sight of sleepy koalas in the trees and dolphins swimming off rocky headlands.

8. Fraser Island - Queensland

Best place to see dingoes, sand dunes and shipwrecks

Fraser Island is an ecological wonderland created by drifting sand, where wild dingoes roam free and lush rainforest grows on sand. It’s a primal island utopia, home to a profusion of wildlife, including the purest strain of dingo in Australia. Explore in a 4WD, cruising along the seemingly endless Seventy-Five Mile Beach. Elsewhere, tropical rainforest, pristine freshwater pools and beach camping under the stars will bring you back to nature.

Read more: A first-timer’s guide to visiting Australia’s Fraser Island

9. South Coast New South Wales

Best for families, white-sand beaches and whale-spotting

If the glamour of Sydney is making you dizzy, or the road trip to Melbourne feels a little drab, then seek out the New South Wales South Coast , a gorgeous stretch of sandy coves, sea pools and often empty national parks oft overlooked in favour of the more direct Hume Highway route. From June to November, watch for whales from the coast at Eden and elsewhere, with other iconic wildlife never far away.

10. Brisbane - Queensland

Best for emerging cultural scenes and waterfront vistas

Once considered a provincial sidekick to Sydney and Melbourne, Brisbane has reinvented itself as one of Asia Pacific’s hippest hubs. No longer happy to settle for 261 days of sunshine a year, Queensland’s capital is smashing it on the cultural front, with an ever-expanding collection of ambitious street art and galleries, boutique bookshops, secret cocktail bars and award-winning microbreweries.

12. Wilsons Promontory & Gippsland - Victoria

Best for wildlife, hiking and wildly beautiful beaches

Mainland Australia’s southernmost tip and finest coastal national park, Wilsons Promontory, is heaven for bushwalkers, wildlife watchers, surfers and photographers. The scenery here is out of this world: even a short detour from the park base at Tidal River will access swathes of white-sand beaches and bays.

12. Canberra - Australian Capital Territory

Best for museums, galleries and history

Canberra has always been preoccupied with the nation’s history – the major draws here are lavishly endowed museums and galleries. The National Gallery of Australia , National Museum of Australia , National Portrait Gallery and Australian War Memorial all offer visitors a fascinating insight into the country’s history and culture. An emerging culinary scene, small-town feel and beautiful natural surrounds only add to the appeal.

You might also like:

Top 15 beaches in Australia Top 20 free things to do in Sydney Unforgettable road trips on Australia’s East Coast

This article was first published Apr 29, 2010 and updated Mar 2, 2021.

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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.

10 Best Road Trips to Take in New Jersey

Road trips are one of the many proven methods of relieving stress and improving one’s well-being. Whether you are looking to solo travel, go with a travel buddy, or go with your family members, swerving through the great outdoors is a great idea. Enjoy scenic views, discover new sites, try out new cuisines, and enjoy the majestic outdoors with picturesque landscapes in New Jersey , which has one of the best road trips on the East Coast. Explore the Nationally Recognized New Jersey Scenic Byways and routes with deep histories and legends. Participate in an array of activities, including kayaking, fishing, hiking scenic trails, traveling back in time, and exploring quaint stores. Sit back and browse through to discover your next road trip.

Route 29 is a popular road trip route in New Jersey, stretching approximately 35 miles (56 km) along the scenic Delaware River . This north-south route starts in Trenton and winds its way to the charming town of Frenchtown. If you’re eager to explore the northwest region, consider taking Route 12 to Race Street or heading east to Interstate 95. This will guide you onto a two-lane National Scenic Byway in Delaware . The route offers breathtaking views and opportunities for fishing along the riverbanks.

Cyclists can enjoy the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail. History enthusiasts can visit Prallsville Mills or delve into Revolutionary War history at Washington Crossing State Park, where the Battle of Princeton is commemorated.

Delaware River Scenic Byway

If you are on the Route 29 highway, you can make this a joint road trip by taking the 34-mile (55 km) Delaware River Scenic Byway. This magnificent road route leads visitors to the scenic Uhlerstown-Frenchtown Bridge. The bridge is a picturesque destination on a cool day, with the sun creating a beautiful backdrop where you can take keepsake pictures. You will pass through towns like Lambertville, Raven Rock, and Titusville. You should also look forward to seeing fields, farmers at work, and picturesque cliffs.

One of only two New Jersey Scenic Byways registered in 2009, this byway offers more than just scenery. Take a break at South Riverwalk Park, which offers seven acres of scenic outdoors with plenty of space for walking, picnics, and more. Also, don’t miss out on exploring the local shops and eateries that give these towns their unique charm.

Bayshore Heritage Scenic Byway

The Bayshore Heritage Byway offers a unique road trip experience, stretching 122 miles (196 km) from the Mannington Township to the historic Cape May Point State Park. This route takes you through the interconnected Bayshore communities, where you can witness the daily life of these small villages and towns. As you drive along, you’ll encounter numerous birding areas, thanks to Bayshore’s location within the Atlantic Flyway, a critical migration site for shorebirds.

For history buffs, the route is dotted with fascinating stops, including Mauricetown, Salem City, and Bridgeton, each offering intriguing stories from the past. Don’t miss a visit to the Bayshore Center at Bivalve and the East Point Lighthouse. These sites provide a glimpse into the maritime history of the region.

Millstone Valley Scenic Byway

For a shorter but equally captivating road trip, the 25-mile (40 km) Millstone Valley Byway is a great choice, especially if you find yourself in Middlesex County. This 30-to 40-minute drive offers a scenic journey through an area rich in history and natural beauty. The Millstone River, which runs parallel to the byway, played a significant role in the county’s history as a crossing trail for Indigenous peoples, including the Lenni Lenape.

As you travel along Canal Road, you’ll pass through charming landscapes that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. If you visit between April and October, make sure to stop at the Griggstown Bridgetender’s House, built in 1834, for a deeper dive into the area’s history. Furthermore, one can check out the Griggstown Causeway, a scenic and short bridge in town.

Pine Barrens Scenic Byway

The Pine Barrens has been a scenic route for outdoor lovers ever since it became a New Jersey Scenic Byway in 2005. It is 130 miles (209 km) long, and visitors can expect to see about five counties and 16 districts on their way. Many wildlife areas, such as the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge and Belleplain State Forest, are accessible from this route, offering visitors a chance to explore New Jersey’s outdoor opportunities. Look out for pygmy pines, which are rare in places other than along this byway.

As you traverse this vast expanse of forests, you’ll enter from Batsto and eventually reach the Maurice River, where Port Elizabeth offers a stunning view. Along the way, stop in any of the small towns you pass through to enjoy local cuisine and hear tales of the legendary “Jersey Devil,” a mythical creature said to roam these woods. The Pine Barrens Byway is perfect for those seeking an ecological and geological adventure through New Jersey’s wilderness.

Upper Freehold Byway

The Upper Freehold Byway may be shorter, but it’s packed with historical and natural attractions. This 28-mile (45 km) route is located near Allentown Borough and offers a glimpse into the region’s rich past. Start your journey at Walnford Mill, a beautifully preserved historic site where visitors can tour the grounds and learn the work and process of turning grain into flour.

On your way, explore the historic Upper Freehold Township and the unincorporated community of Hamlet of Imlaystown. Don’t miss Clayton Park, where you can walk the trails of the old Union Transportation Railroad. The Upper Freehold Byway is a perfect blend of history, nature, and local lore, making it an ideal road trip for those who enjoy discovering hidden gems.

Warren Heritage Scenic Byway

The Warren Heritage Scenic Byway offers a picturesque journey through New Jersey’s Warren County, blending natural beauty with historical significance. This 19-mile (30 km) route primarily follows Route 57, stretching from Greenwich to Hackettstown. As you drive along, you’ll encounter rolling hills, charming small towns, and the lush landscapes of the Musconetcong River Valley. Highlights include the historic district of Beattystown, where remnants of the 19th-century iron industry still stand, and Mansfield Township, where you can find one of New Jersey's oldest continuously operating mills. In Hackettstown, you can explore the quaint downtown area with its unique shops and eateries. The byway also offers access to several parks and trails, making it a perfect choice for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Palisades Interstate Parkway

The Palisades Interstate Parkway is a road trip that promises unforgettable memories. This 42-mile (21 km) journey begins in New Jersey, offering stunning views of the Hudson River and its line of cliffs known as Palisades. As you travel north, you’ll reach Bergen County, where the Parkway intersects with the iconic George Washington Bridge. The views from the Rockefeller Lookout and the State Line Lookout atop the 532-foot Palisades cliffs are nothing short of breathtaking.

For those looking to take a break, the Ross Dock and Englewood Picnic Area offer great spots to relax and enjoy the scenery. As you continue your journey, you’ll eventually cross into New York , but the memories of the stunning views and the peaceful drive along the Palisades will stay with you long after the trip is over.

Western Highlands Scenic Byway

Those looking for an outdoor retreat from the safety of their vehicle will adore the tranquil 23 miles (37 km) of the Western Highlands Scenic Byway. Travel along Newark Pequanock Watershed on a wildlife adventure. If this is your thing, stop at Hamburg Mountain Wildlife Management Area. This WMA is a dream for hikers with unmarked roads that traverse thick forests, hills, and lakes for a serene experience. Furthermore, you will come across counties like Sussex and Hunterdon on your way.

Check out the historical Black Creek Indian Site for some history tales and outdoor views that anyone can enjoy. If you plan to go camping, Wawayanda State Park is a great spot. You can also go birdwatching, hiking, and fishing there. From Sussex County, New Jersey, you should finish your road trip in New York through Route 94.

Route 1/9 is a major thoroughfare that offers a road trip experience rich in urban and industrial landscapes. This 31-mile (50 km) journey takes you from North New Jersey to New York City , passing through towns like Woodbridge and Newark. One of the highlights of this route is the 3.5-mile-long Pulaski Skyway, an engineering marvel that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Although trucks have been banned from the Pulaski Skyway since 1934, the route remains a vital link between New Jersey and New York.

Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to explore some of New Jersey’s most vibrant cities, including Jersey City and North Bergen. Here, plenty of activities await all kinds of road trippers, from an evening at the 1910 White Eagle Hall to a photo session in front of the Colgate Clock, supposedly the world’s largest clock.

Wrapping Up

As you plan your next adventure through New Jersey's scenic byways, remember that each route offers more than just a road trip—it’s a journey through the state’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and unique local cultures. Whether you’re winding through the Pine Barrens, exploring the Delaware River's banks, or discovering the hidden gems of Warren County, these routes invite you to experience New Jersey in an immersive and unforgettable way. So pack your bags, hit the road, and let the Garden State’s scenic byways reveal the state’s secrets.

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The Best Time to Visit Iceland: Top Seasonal Destinations

• February 14, 2024
• Categories: Destination Guide , Europe , Travel
• Author: Karen LeBlanc

Table of Contents

Iceland, the land of otherworldly landscapes, erupting geysers, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights—it’s an adventurer’s playground and a bucket-list destination for so many. But when’s the perfect moment to set off on your Icelandic journey? The answer depends entirely on what you dream of seeing and doing while you’re there.

Each season paints Iceland in a different light, both literally and figuratively! This guide breaks down the best times to visit Iceland and the star attractions, ensuring you choose the right Icelandic adventure for YOU.

Best Time for Iceland: Summer (June-August)

Summer in Iceland means near-endless daylight thanks to the midnight sun, warmer weather (though still pack layers—this is Iceland!), and nearly full accessibility to attractions around the country.

Pros:  Perfect for outdoor adventures, scenic drives, all roads open, festivals and events

Cons:  Peak crowds, prices at their highest.

Thingvellir National Park  

• Immerse yourself in history and geology within this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore canyons, walk between tectonic plates, and even snorkel or dive the crystal-clear Silfra fissure.

Golden Circle

• A classic route bursting with must-sees – Gullfoss waterfall thunders with power, the Geysir geothermal area shoots steaming water sky-high, and Þingvellir National Park stuns with its natural beauty.

• Dive into Iceland’s captivating capital. Quirky shops, a diverse food scene, museums, and vibrant nightlife await. Use under-the-radar things to do in Reykjavik as your base to explore further!

• Off-the-beaten-path magic! Think dramatic landscapes, untouched wilderness, incredible birdwatching, and some of the best road trips you’ll ever take.

Whale Watching

• Tours depart from numerous towns (like Reykjavik and Husavik), offering up-close encounters with these gentle giants.

Planning an Iceland Summer Trip: Be prepared for crowds, so booking well ahead is wise. If you crave solitude, seek lesser-known spots within the destinations above or venture into areas like the remote Eastfjords.

Summer is the season that suits travelers who:

• Thrive on long days and endless daylight for exploration
• Don’t mind crowds and higher prices in exchange for full accessibility
• Prioritize outdoor adventures and experiencing Iceland at its warmest (relatively speaking!)
• Want a lively atmosphere with festivals and events.

Best Time for Iceland: Fall/Autumn (September-October)

Autumn brings color changes to Iceland’s landscapes, opportunities for Northern Lights sightings with longer nights, and fewer crowds compared to summer.

Pros:  Northern Lights potential, fewer crowds, vibrant foliage, shoulder-season prices.

Cons:  Unpredictable weather; some Highland roads may close early in the season

Northern Lights Hunt

• Seek clear skies away from cities for your best chance to witness the dancing Aurora Borealis.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

• A microcosm of West Iceland volcanoes, waterfalls, and coastal views —within a compact area.

Hot Springs

• The Blue Lagoon or quieter options are extra enticing amidst the cool air.

• Enjoy museums and cozy cafes during rainy spells, and explore this quirky city’s shops and culture.

Historic Sites

• Immerse yourself in Iceland’s Viking heritage and folklore at various spots.

Planning an Iceland Fall Trip: Pack for all kinds of weather and ensure winter tires on your rental car if driving later in the season.

Fall is the season that suits travelers who:

• Dream of seeing the Northern Lights without extreme winter weather
• Prefer a less crowded experience, with a touch of solitude
• Are flexible with potentially changeable weather
• Appreciate potential cost savings of a shoulder season trip

Need information on planning your trip? Check out the Visit Iceland Official Tourism Website : for practical details. Get extensive ideas from the experts at Guide to Iceland : Now, if you’re still deciding when to go, let’s explore what winter in Iceland has to offer.

Best Time for Iceland: Winter (November–March)

Winter transforms Iceland into a snowy wonderland, perfect for experiencing the breathtaking Northern Lights, exploring ice caves, and enjoying winter activities.

Pros:  Spectacular Northern Lights, magical ice caves, winter sports, cozy holiday atmosphere (in December).

Cons:  Short daylight hours, possible weather-related travel disruptions, cold temperatures.

Northern Lights

• Dedicate your trip to hunting for these natural wonders under clear, dark skies.

• Join guided tours to explore these glittering glacial formations.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

• Icebergs floating amidst snowy landscapes are unforgettable, especially in winter.

Winter Sports

• Try snowmobiling on glaciers, adventurous glacier hikes, or indulge in skiing.

• Embrace the Christmas spirit with markets, light displays, and cozy winter celebrations.

Planning an Iceland Winter Trip: Focus on warm, waterproof clothing. If the Northern Lights are a priority, consider staying somewhere remote outside the city.

Winter is the season that suits travelers who:

• Have witnessing the Northern Lights as their top priority
• Crave unique winter experiences (ice caves, winter sports)
• Embrace the beauty of snowy landscapes and cold weather
• Enjoy the potential for cozy, festive vibes in Reykjavík (especially in December)

Best Time for Iceland: Spring (April-May)

Spring in Iceland signifies nature’s awakening, longer daylight hours, and the return of wildlife like seabirds and puffins. It’s a refreshing shoulder-season option.

Pros:  Waterfalls at their peak, wildlife returns (like puffins), longer days, shoulder-season travel perks.

Cons:  Changeable weather, some attractions may still be closed early in the season.

Puffin Spotting

• Coastal areas teem with life as puffins return to their nesting grounds—head to places like the Westman Islands or Látrabjarg cliffs.

• Feel the increased power of waterfalls with glacial melt, making iconic spots like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss in South Iceland even more awe-inspiring.

• Trails reopen, revealing fresh spring growth and landscapes with fewer crowds.

Day Trips from Reykjavík

• With lengthening days, day trips outside the city become even more accessible.

• Experience less traffic on popular routes like the South Coast.

Planning an Iceland Spring Trip : Pack for all conditions – layers are still vital! Some remote Highland roads could still be closed early in the season, so factor that in.

Spring is the season that suits travelers who:

• Crave witnessing nature’s resurgence after winter
• Want to see puffins and other returning wildlife
• Appreciate shoulder-season travel advantages (think lesser crowds, potential travel deals)
• Don’t mind the unpredictability of spring weather

F requently Asked Questions About Best Time To Visit Iceland

When is the cheapest time to visit iceland.

Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) tend to be the least expensive, as well as winter outside of the Christmas/New Year holiday period.

How many days do I need in Iceland?

A minimum of 4-5 days is ideal for a basic taste of Iceland. If you want to fully explore the highlights and venture further afield, a week or more offers a satisfying experience.

Can I see the Northern Lights in summer?

The midnight sun makes sightings highly unlikely. For aurora sightings, stick to fall, winter, or early spring.

What should I pack for Iceland?

Layers are KEY regardless of the season! Include waterproof outerwear, warm base layers, sturdy hiking boots (if you plan on exploring the outdoors), and swimwear for enjoying Iceland’s hot springs.

Remember, when deciding the “best time for Iceland,” your individual preferences and goals are paramount. Iceland offers unique wonders all year round – you just need to select the ones that ignite your sense of adventure.

• Summer adventurers,  prepare for crowds and higher prices, offset by endless daylight and the widest range of activities.
• Fall travelers,  savor the shift towards tranquility, with the chance of magical aurora sightings.
• Winter seekers,  embrace the breathtaking landscapes, thrilling activities, and captivating Northern Lights.
• Spring enthusiasts,  find renewal in nature, witnessing waterfalls at their strongest and the return of wildlife.

Whichever season beckons, prepare for an awe-inspiring journey. And most of all, embrace Iceland’s dynamic landscapes and adventurous spirit – they’ll take your breath away, no matter the time of year.

More Iceland Travel Guide and Tips That You Should Know:

16 Things To Do In West Iceland Away From Tourist Crowd

Top 5 Under-the-Radar Things To Do In Reykjavik Iceland

South Iceland Bucket List: 7 Must-Experience Destinations

Related posts:

Karen LeBlanc

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Karen LeBlanc is a travel host and writer with a popular travel show, The Design Tourist, and a companion lifestyle blog. As a widely published travel journalist and content creator, Karen is a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association. She also serves as the Design and Travel editor of the national lifestyle magazine, LaPalme. Karen believes that every destination has a story to tell through its local art, architecture, culture, and craft. This immersive creative exploration begins with authentic accommodations where the narrative of place unfolds through art, accessories, accouterments, furnishings, fixtures, and food. 

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