Australians are known for their love of travel, seizing every opportunity from school holidays to long weekends to explore their vast and beautiful country. This enthusiasm leads to bustling highways and emptied cities as locals flock to cherished destinations, be it sun-drenched beach houses echoing with summer memories or tranquil countryside retreats.
For many, an Australian vacation is about reconnecting with nature, and thankfully, the “Lucky Country” boasts a stunning array of landscapes suitable for year-round exploration. From vibrant coral reefs and ochre deserts to majestic snow-capped mountains, Australia offers an adventure for every taste. Combine this natural beauty with a healthy appetite and a perfect road trip playlist, and you’re ready to experience Australia like a true local.
Coastal Escapes: Sun, Sand, and Surf
Australia’s coastline is legendary, and a visit to the shore is a must for any traveler. Here are some of the best coastal destinations to explore:
Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk, New South Wales
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Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach is the perfect starting point for a breathtaking coastal walk. Head south towards Bronte, pausing at numerous viewpoints and parks to soak in the panoramic ocean vistas. For an extended adventure, continue along the path to Coogee Beach, passing saltwater pools carved into the cliffs, the historic Waverley Cemetery perched dramatically above the waves, and several more stunning golden beaches.
The Bondi to Bronte walk, extending to Waverley Cemetery, typically takes around 90 minutes. However, allow at least half a day to truly savor the experience, taking leisurely breaks and enjoying refreshments at seaside cafes along the way.
Yamba, New South Wales
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Often compared to Byron Bay or Noosa before they became major tourist hubs, Yamba offers a relaxed coastal charm without the overwhelming crowds. This laid-back town, located a short drive south of Byron Bay, boasts trendy cafes serving excellent coffee and restaurants specializing in the freshest local seafood, especially prawns. The historic Pacific Hotel provides a lively atmosphere with live music and stunning ocean views.
Yamba’s coastline features four distinct beaches, each catering to different surf conditions, ensuring great waves for surfers of all levels. On Wednesdays, immerse yourself in local life at the Yamba Farmers & Producers Market, offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local crafts. Venture slightly inland to explore the Iluka Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest with walking tracks leading to Bluff Lookout, perfect for spotting sea eagles and migrating whales.
Lorne, Victoria
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For many Australians, Lorne is synonymous with summer road trips, particularly for those attending the Falls Music and Arts Festival. However, this charming surf town has been a beloved local getaway long before the festival’s inception. Situated on the iconic Great Ocean Road, about two hours southwest of Melbourne, Lorne benefits from a stunning location between Bass Strait and the lush Great Otway National Park.
Surfers, both beginners and experienced, can enjoy the waves at Lorne Point. The pier is ideal for fishing for trevally and barracuda. Inland, explore the temperate rainforests, home to over ten waterfalls within a short distance of town, offering zip-lining, treetop walks, and enchanting glowworm displays after dark.
Seventeen Seventy, Queensland
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Seventeen Seventy, named after the year Captain Cook landed in Australia, is a uniquely named town located on a headland jutting into the Coral Sea. Its appeal lies in its tranquil atmosphere and its distance from Queensland’s busier tourist destinations. Surrounded by the Coral Sea and Bustard Bay, Seventeen Seventy offers calm, warm waters perfect for swimming, paddle boarding, and fishing.
Its location at the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef makes it an excellent base for exploring quieter sections of this world-renowned natural wonder. Snorkeling and fishing tours regularly depart for Lady Musgrave Island, a coral cay famed for its diverse coral reefs and pisonia forests. Camping is also available on Lady Musgrave Island via ferry. Between November and March, witness loggerhead and hawksbill turtles nesting ashore, followed by the incredible sight of baby turtles making their way to the sea.
Esperance, Western Australia
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Esperance, with its pristine white-sand beaches and kangaroos lounging on the shore, might initially seem like it belongs in Queensland. However, this hidden gem is located on Western Australia’s southern coast, relatively untouched due to its remoteness. A day’s drive or a short flight from Perth, Esperance has remained a local secret, offering unspoiled beauty and a unique Australian experience.
Kids in Esperance grow up exploring rock pools on uninhabited islands and enjoying long days surfing before sunset barbecues. The area is known for its quirky attractions, including the striking pink Lake Hillier, remnants of a NASA space station, and a full-scale replica of Stonehenge, adding to its offbeat charm.
Inland Adventures: Outback and Mountains
Beyond the coast, Australia’s interior offers equally compelling travel experiences, from rugged mountain ranges to the iconic Outback:
Bright, Victoria
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Nestled in Victoria’s high country, a four-hour drive northeast of Melbourne, Bright is a delightful revelation. This charming small town, situated in a pine forest valley along the Ovens River, is a perennial favorite among Australian vacationers. In summer, the riverfront water playground is a hit with families, while gold panning enthusiasts search for remnants of the region’s gold rush history. Adventure seekers can hike or mountain bike on nearby Mount Feathertop and Mount Beauty, while food lovers can explore weekend markets brimming with fresh local produce or cycle between cellar doors.
During cooler months, Bright transforms with vibrant autumnal colors and harvest festivals. Snow enthusiasts flock to Bright as a base for skiing and snowboarding at Mount Hotham or Falls Creek, enjoying après-ski drinks at local breweries and distilleries.
Katoomba, New South Wales
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Katoomba, the heart of the eucalyptus-scented Blue Mountains World Heritage area, is just a 90-minute drive west of Sydney. It attracts Australians seeking a bush escape with the comfort of luxury accommodations. Hiking and outdoor activities are the main draws, particularly the iconic Three Sisters rock formation and the Jenolan Caves, a vast network of underground caves hosting monthly concerts due to their exceptional acoustics.
The Blue Mountains are also rich in Aboriginal culture, with songline trails and ancient cave paintings. The region is a popular wellness destination, offering day spas and yoga retreats, such as the Kurrara Historic Guest House. Occasionally, winter brings snow to the mountains, creating a festive atmosphere for “Christmas in July” celebrations with log fires and yuletide menus in Katoomba’s restaurants.
Alice Springs, Northern Territory
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Alice Springs and the surrounding Outback hold a special place in the Australian psyche. While Uluru is perhaps the most famous landmark, Alice Springs itself is a gateway to numerous Outback adventures, including hot-air ballooning and hikes to hidden watering holes. The town has evolved into an arts hub, hosting events like Parrtjima, a festival of light and sound illuminating the MacDonnell Ranges, and FabAlice, a drag festival. The Araluen Arts Centre showcases significant contemporary Aboriginal art and regularly hosts cultural events. Even a quirky “boat race” in a dry riverbed adds to the unique character of Alice Springs.
Island Paradises: Unique Australian Islands
Australia’s islands offer distinct and unforgettable travel experiences:
Bruny Island, Tasmania
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Bruny Island, just off the coast of Tasmania, is a rugged gem that punches above its weight in attractions. Blessed with fertile land and pristine waters, it has become a crucial part of Tasmania’s reputation as a foodie paradise. Visitors are drawn to its wineries, chocolatiers, and oyster farms.
For adventure enthusiasts, Bruny Island offers a network of hiking trails and lookouts, such as The Neck and South Bruny National Park. Keep an eye out for fur seals on the beaches and migrating humpback whales. On clear winter nights, you might even witness the aurora australis, the Southern Lights, shimmering on the horizon.
Wine and Food Regions: Indulge in Australian Flavors
Australia’s diverse climate and fertile lands produce world-class food and wine:
McLaren Vale, South Australia
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McLaren Vale, located just outside Adelaide, is easily accessible and ranks among Australia’s premier wine regions. While international tourists often head to Kangaroo Island, locals know that this part of the Fleurieu Peninsula is a perfect staycation destination. The Mediterranean climate strongly influences the wine production, with a focus on Italian varietals.
Wine and art are intertwined in McLaren Vale, as evidenced by the d’Arenberg Cube, a giant Rubik’s Cube-shaped cellar door. Many wineries also function as art galleries. The Fleurieu Arthouse is a great place to see local artists at work. Beyond wine, the region is known for cheese, olive oil, and fresh seafood, with numerous coastal cafes offering delicious fish and chips.
Australia’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture offer endless possibilities for unforgettable travel experiences. From stunning coastlines and lush rainforests to the dramatic Outback and world-class wine regions, the “Lucky Country” truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Australia’s best places to travel are waiting to be explored.
