Dont miss a trip to the Daintree Rainforest, either; this verdant paradise features movie-cool waterfalls, clear blue lakes, sunlight shimmering through the trees, tropical vegetation and exotic wildlife. The bay is home to a few small villages, and lush forests weave their way in between the civilisation. "profileUpdate": { And amazingly, they're also accessible on easy day trips from the city. Australia holidays: The 26 most wonderful places to visit - Guide to the best sites and attractions by state Sue Williams For full functionality of this site it is necessary to enable JavaScript. READ MORE: Be sure to add these great things to do in Esperance to your Australia itinerary! Many visitors to the region label the formations moon-like and are blown away by the sheer size and beauty. Her travels have taken her through the cloud forests of Ecuador, into the villages of eastern Europe, across the islands of Thailand, and to the beaches of New South Wales, Australia, where she is currently living with a working holiday visa. From top-rate museums such as the National Gallery of Victoria to stunning nearby getaways such as Port Campbell National Park, Melbourne delivers. Beyond postcard Sydney, this electrifying and eclectic city has layers of history, culture and migration to excavate as you explore each neighborhood. 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. All you need to apply is to have a debit or credit card, to be over 18 years of age, and to be a resident of Australia. READ MORE: Plan your trip to Perth with our city guide! Millions of people from all over the world visit America every year to explore its natural beauty, historical landmarks and vibrant culture. Rates are indicative based on the minimum and maximum available prices of products and services. Always interest-free. There are a few quaint towns set amidst the forest, likeKatoombaandBlackheath, that have all the Australian attractions for tourists you could ever need. Shes a rather pretty city too, with architecturally beautiful buildings including two of the most iconic structures in the world, the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge and sparkling harbours interrupted only by island sanctuaries. Three major music festivals (Bluesfest in April; Splendour in the Grass in July; and Falls Festival over New Years) and a year-round holiday feel have encouraged enterprising locals from all over the region to set up side-gigs as AirBnB hosts so there are plenty of places to stay, no matter your budget. Three major music festivals (Bluesfest in April; Splendour in the Grass in July; and Falls Festival over New Years) and a year-round holiday feel have encouraged enterprising locals from all over the region to set up side-gigs as AirBnB hosts so there are plenty of places to stay, no matter your budget. Theres too much happening along the coast not to, including ample swimming and surfing spots, upmarket dining options, adventure playgrounds (Live Wire Action Park), gorgeous waterfalls (Beauchamp Falls), picturesque limestone stacks (the Twelve Apostles) and plenty of spots to stop and eat some fish and chips on the beach. Sydney's regional areas are varied and spectacular. You know, continent-sized. 1. Located nearly 500 kilometres from central Sydney on New South Wales south-eastern border, this quiet corner of the state on the edge of Green Cape is something of a hidden gem, off the radar of mass tourism. Margaret River and its surrounding areas produce some of Australias best wine, and there are plenty of vineyard tours and wine tasting opportunities. You can fly here, but we recommend travelling to the reef by going on a Perth to Exmouth road trip. Whether its a. , 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). Five of the islands have resorts; some are private, but most are uninhabited (or offer camping), so that you can play out yourShipwreckedfantasy. Use Cairns as your base to explore Far North Queensland, which is situated right next to the Great Barrier Reef, the worlds largest coral reef. And on the 12-day Great Australian Aircruise you tick off Australia's most prized landmarks - Kakadu, the Red Centre, the ancient Bungle Bungle Range, the mighty chasms of Katherine Gorge, the . courtesy of Belmond. You might even spot a prehistoric cassowary. READ MORE: Add these great day trips from Brisbane to your itinerary! Continue exploring the area on wildlife-spotting night tours, mountain treks, interpretive boardwalks, canopy walks, self-guided walking trails, 4WD trips, horse riding, kayaking, crocodile-spotting cruises, tropical-fruit orchard tours and tastings. 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. With grapes sourced from cool climate vineyards in Tumbarumba, Hilltops and Gundagai, they produce reds, whites and ros that are available for tastings at the cellar door and in the attached . 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 Australias early colonial days. DestinationsPhotographySustainable TourismAdventure Travel, Adventure ToursStart a BlogTravel TipsSitemap, 2022 NOMADasaurus | Peak Evolution Media, The 30 Best Places to Visit in Australia (2022 Edition). Cable Beachis the most famous beach in Broome. The town ofMargaret Riverhas a relaxed country village vibe. Near the town of Exmouth in Western Australia is Ningaloo Reef, one of the best places tosee whale sharksin the world. Oh, thats just the line to get into the latest no bookings restaurant in Melbourne. Catch a show from a local Aussie band, hit up the museums and art galleries and go shopping at the Queen Victoria Market. This cluster of eroded, orange-tinged granite boulders have been chilling here for over 500 million years. You can go on safari in places like Botswana, with temperatures reaching 25degC without the humidity. Australia's sheer size means that it can still be hard to narrow down the range of choices of the absolute best places to travel in Australia in May. This article is part of our comprehensive travel guide to Australia, which you can read here. "taIdRetryLimit": 3 Families on school holidays, surfers and sunseekers from across the globe gather by the foreshore at sunset, drawn to this spot by fabulous restaurants, a chilled pace of life and an astonishing range of activities. These adorable, wild animals are the smallest of all penguin species in the world and are one of the major drawcards for visitors to the region. On one trip, you can spot some of the most iconic Australian animals: kangaroos, koalas, dolphins but also whales (in winter) and manta rays (in summer). Great Barrier Reef Drive, Port Douglas, QLD Travellers Autobarn. The beauty of tropical north Queensland is that even in winter you can still be swimming on the reef and exploring the luscious rainforest with ease and comfort. There are nine hours of sunshine in May, and lows are eight degrees. In the tropical north of Australia, the rainforest meets the sea and two World Heritage sites unite: the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest. The Anangu Aboriginal peoples are the owners of the national park, which they lease to Parks Australia and jointly administer with them. Noosa Heads National Parkis where all the best scenery is, including hiking trails, peaceful picnic grounds, and amazing beaches likeTea Tree Bay. The capital of the Northern Territory, Darwin is a city filled with history. DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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. READ MORE: Check out our Adelaide city guide for great things to do! The city is also a great gateway for visitingLamington National Park, a vast area of mountains, valleys, and forests. Experience now. You can fly directly there from Sydney, Darwin or Cairns, with the airport located only a few kilometres north of Uluru itself. We uncover the best of the city and put it all in an email for you. The island is known as a wildlife haven with kangaroos and emus often spotted hanging around, but the particular claim to fame is its colony of Little Penguins. You can also head to the top of the massiveBell Towerfor a panoramic view of the city, or take a day trip to Rottnest Island to spot some quokkas. 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. 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. The mainland hub ofAirlie Beachis a great base for exploring this archipelago. Helicopter tours are available for a bird's-eye view, or you can join a boat tour to marvel at the magnificent limestone stacks from the water. Bondi to Coogee Walk. "FYASignUpDtmConfig": { Sydney is immediately recognizable, with its iconic sights like Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge lights glistening in the night and sun worshippers lying on its famous beaches. Twice the size of Sydney Harbor, Darwin Harbor attracts visitors too. Wild mountains lead to staggering waterfalls making travel into the region an adventure in itself, giving you one of the most unparalleled experiences in Australia. If you're looking to travel to Phillip Island by yourself rather than on a tour, you can expect to spend about 1.5 hours or more on the road, so be prepared to invest at least one full day preferably two to get the most out of what it has to offer. underground homes in the desert. So, to make things a little easier, here's a breakdown of our top places to visit in Australia during May. Thanks for subscribing! The Great Barrier Reef is as fragile as it is beautiful. Among the numerous attractions on the Gold Coast are three must-sees, Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads, and Surfers Paradise. All rights reserved. The Northern Territory has no shortage of stunning landscapes Gold Coast, Queensland This is without a doubt, one of best holiday destinations in Australia. Because WA is such a vast destination with huge distances between places you wont want to miss, it pays to do your trip planning before you arrive. Most of the islands are uninhabited, and most visitors choose to stay inAirlie Beach, the main tourist town of the Whitsundays. 12. Rising out of the aquamarine sea, these islands are thehome of the Ngaro people and sheltersome of the oldest archaeological sites on Australia's east coast. Visiting Eureka Skydeck. "startScreen": "aus-link-account" Perhaps Australia's best-known tourist destination, Sydney is the gateway city for many tourists, as well as being the largest city in Australia. Barossa Valley. Perth also brings along the added benefit of being within reasonable driving distance of one of Australia's most impressive geological rock formations; The Pinnacles. Enjoy vast views, log fires and rustic charm. Think you have to go to the Maldives for a slice of paradise? The Murray River twists through mountains and valleys, sprawling farmland and forests, and is home to a whole variety of businesses and activities. Kakadu National Park Kakadu, Australia's largest national park, is one of the best places to visit in Australia as one of the top tourist spots in the country. The secret of a great holiday to Australia is good planning, such as flying into one city and out of another, travelling by motorhome or escorted tour to enjoy the journey as much as the destination, or adding a stopover to Australia in Dubai or South East Asia to make the most of your flight to the other side of the world.. At FREEDOM, we can help you do all of this and more. Located in West Virginia, Shenandoah National Park is among the best vacation spots in the US for those seeking outdoor adventure. The park is most famous for its gorges and canyons, whose swirling rock patterns are incredibly photogenic. With most countries vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus, travel is slowly regaining some sense of normalcy and people are venturing outside of their homes. BYRON BAY Byron Bay, a beachside town with great waves and great vibes. Lush green rainforest replete with fan palms, prehistoric-looking ferns and twisted mangroves tumble down towards a brilliant white-sand coastline in the ancient, World Heritage-listed Daintree rainforest. 2022 Lonely Planet. "event": "taCustEvent", As the capital of Victoria, Melbourne is one of the colder cities in Australia because it is located so far south. Point Arkwright. The weather in May is warm, but not too hot. One of Australia's oldest and most renowned wine-growing areas, the Barossa Valley, is located approximately 60 kilometres northeast of Adelaide. Tourism Australia does not endorse or accept any responsibility for the use of websites which are owned or operated by third parties and makes no representation or warranty in relation to the standard, class or fitness for purpose of any services, nor does it endorse or in any respect warrant any products or services by virtue of any information, material or content linked from or to this site. Surfers bob around in the world-class breaks near the Margaret River mouth, but it's not unusual to find yourself on a white-sand beach along the cape where the only footprints are your own. One of the wests most bizarre landscapes, the Pinnacles Desert attracts thousands of visitors each year. The island itself also offers some worthwhile adventures for both visitors and locals alike. The best things to do in Australia? But it is worth spending some time in the city to soak in the culture. Longboarders also flock to Noosa for the right-hand point breaks that create perfect, rippling waves. Lonely Planet's Best of East Coast Australia is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Cairns in Queensland will see you have a blast of a time exploring its rainforest and swimming in its reef rich waters. One of our favorite sunrise spots in Queensland, Point Arkwright. Though not as huge as Sydney or Melbourne, Adelaide has plenty of museums, art galleries, festivals, shops, restaurants, and cafes to entertain any traveller. Hiking Trails. Others sit neatly on village streets and country lanes. Complete your trip to Cairns by visiting Kuranda, Port Douglas and Palm Cove not very far from the rainforest. Not far away is an equally beguiling clutch of stone siblings known as Kata Tjuta. Up north the weather is fine, youre surrounded by UNESCO World Heritage icons, and tropical weather means tropical produce. Enter the email address associated with your account and we will email you instructions to reset your password. The lesser known reef on the opposite side of the country to the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, Ningaloo Reef is an underwater wonderland and is home to some of the best snorkelling buddies, Whale Sharks. If you long to see the brutally beautiful sun-scorched plains of Australia's desert interior, while keeping one foot in civilisation, there are excellent accommodations in and around the town, such as the luxeBroken Hill Outback Resort. This is one of the top places to see in South Australia if you love wine! Located off the coast of South Australia, Kangaroo Island is an amazing day trip from Adelaide or elsewhere in the state. }, Some of the most famous landmarks on the road include theTwelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge,and theBay of Islands, all of which include intriguing jagged rock formations. Explore thelush Kangaroo Valley andtake in the sprawling Minnamurra rainforest centre on the way. By clicking any link on this page you are giving your consent for us to set cookies. 8. Plenty of adventurous activities are on offer once you reach the desert including visits to wildlife parks, sandboarding and hikes through the rugged terrain. Cosy cabins. Korkusung / shutterstock.com 4. These are the very best places to visit in amazing Australia. Compared to the sizzling summer temperatures that can exceed 35 degrees, winter weather boasts comfortable daily highs of 20 degrees, making it more comfortable, and safer, to walk or cycle around Uluru. Best places to visit in May in Asia Bangkok, Thailand - for city life and culture Seoul, South Korea - for a dreamy getaway Nepal - for adventure East Coast, Sri Lanka - for relaxing on the beach Borneo - to get in touch with wildlife Saigon, Vietnam - for a revitalising getaway Best places to go in May in the US and Americas As a result, local attraction, Phillip Island Nature Parks created what is now one of the most popular activities, the Penguin Parade. Dolphins at Tin Can Bay, Queensland. P44rth00rn4x 3 hr. Best for: Adventure, culture, foodies. Theres also a lot of outdoor adventures to enjoy, like paddleboarding and kayaking. Kangaroo Island is full of striking natural beauty and plenty of interesting wildlife, making it one of the best places to go in Australia. While Porto and Lisbon get much of the tourist love in Portugal, Madeira also deserves attention, particularly in May with the Festa da Flor (flower festival) taking place on . This is a little-known location, so a visit will be sure to have only a few locals around. Feel likeharking back to simpler times? "startScreen": "gigya-reset-password-screen" 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. Where To Stay: Ecopia Retreat 22. It could be mistaken for the surface of Mars, but scattered among the dunes of Nambung National Park, thousands of ghostly limestone pillars rise from the surrounding plain like a vast, petrified alien army. We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years. It's not scorching yet in Southern Italy but very pleasant, making it one of the best places to visit in May. "registration": { When you get a glimpse of it IRL, its easy to understand how Uluru became such an important symbol of local Indigenous culture and Australian culture as a whole. The landscapes are simply spectacular in Australias red centre, especially when youre marvelling at the great sandstone monolith that is Uluru. Aside from the well-known spots of Alice Springs, Darwin and Uluru, Katherine is a great place to go. We already have this email. Fun activities to do in Broome include visiting a local pearling farm, bird-watching near theBroome Bird Observatory, and searching for dinosaur tracks atGantheaume Point. What do you need for your trip Down Under? Whether you want to eat your way through Melbourne's incredible food scene, admire street art in the laneways . Tasmania is one of the best places in the country to view aurora australis, or the southern lights, which tend to shine the brightest towards the end of winter and into September. Set on the bright blue waters of the Indian Ocean, Broome is a small resort town in the Kimberley Region of Western Australia. 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. Cairns is a viable holiday destination for travellers exploring on their own or with kids and is often a favourite over the Christmas break, but the cool May breeze provides relief from the brutal FNQ heat the earlier months endure. However, if the water temperature does drop, simply slip on a wetsuit and jump in because you don't want a little bit of cold water to get in the way of an unforgettable experience such as this. Perhaps Australia's best-known tourist destination, Sydney is the gateway city for many tourists, as well as being the largest city in Australia. The Koala Conservation Centre lets you see these popular Australian animals in their natural habitat, the Churchill Island Heritage Farm shows you life on a traditional Australian farm, and the Antarctic Journey at the Nobbies Centre takes you on a multi-visual adventure underwater to learn about the ocean's biggest and best animals. Great choice! Whether you want to hike through canyons or fly over waterfalls, Australia's national parks are the place to do it. Drive 20 minutes outside the states major cities (Hobart and Launceston) and you can walk in the bush, bike down a spectacular mountain trail or lounge on the beach. The desert is home to thousands of these limestone pillars, some of which reach up to four metres tall. Why the queue? Although a small region, Margaret River specialises in premium wine, with its 200+ boutique wineries accounting for 20% of Australia's premium wine production. The best time to visit is between May - September. Australia is a sizeable place. The first is Mossman Gorge, the gateway to the rainforest, where crystal clear waters rush between huge boulders. READ MORE: Check out the perfect 3 day Melbourne itinerary. Great White Sharks in Port Lincoln, South Australia. All transactions are processed in AUD. To find that picturesque combination of turquoise water and white sand while searching for the best places in Australia, head to Esperance. It is located 30 minutes south of Noosa. Take a tour, or just go wandering and see what you can see. Photograph: Exmouth Dive and Whalesharks Ningaloo. Development is very low-key, so be prepared to camp, or take day trips from the access towns of Exmouth and Coral Bay. Theres extraordinary food, gin and whisky distilleries, wildlife sanctuaries (where youll meet endangered Tasmanian devils), cool-climate wineries, fabulous festivals and a world-class art museum in the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), which is one of the best things to do in the world right now. For grey nomads, this is one of the best places to holiday in Australia. Look no further. Welcome to Tourism Australia. This is one of the best places to visit in Australia for lovers of marine life. Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Experiences that will make you feel like an Aussie. No matter how many postcard images you have seen, nothing prepares you for the Rocks immense presence, character-pitted surface and spiritual gravitas. For those who often daydream about a perfect island paradise, the Whitsundays is one of the most beautiful places in Australia. Point Arkwright is a hidden gem and one of our favorite sunrise spots in Australia. Avisit here is a surefire conversation starter and one of Australias favorite arts experiences. Australias diverse food-and-drink scene can be a little daunting, so heres where to start. Better-kept secrets are the cool-climate stunners from the Adelaide Hills and the country cabernet sauvignon from the Coonawarra. Please note: currency conversion prices are an approximate guide only and are updated daily. Palm Beach. 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. Other things to do in Margaret River include whale watching during the winter months, hiking along the coast, exploring the limestone cliffs and caves ofLeeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, or surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the ocean. But Tasmania isnt just for nature fans. Australia is a tourists dream, with stunning beach towns nestled up to rugged national parks, wild green islands, culture-heavy cities, and more charm than most places can even dream up. Expect succulent seafood caught off the docks at Eden, cheeses galore from Bega and Tilbas famous dairies, beef and lamb reared on the grassy slopes near Pambula, and of course, the regions most popular export, succulent Sydney rock oysters reared in some ofthe most fertile estuaries anywhere in the country. The lucky few may even spy some dolphins and migrating whales enjoying the waves. Swimming with whale sharks isn't the only adventure available in the region, with Ningaloo Reef also offering some incredible snorkelling and exploration opportunities. In more recent years, blockbuster movies have been filmed here, including, , making it a tourism hotspot for a diverse range of travellers, from dystopian movie buffs to drag aficionados. See the best places to visit in Australia with our super-simple 2 week itinerary and make sure you get the most out of your Aussie adventure. This easy walking trail through the bush brings you to several beaches with velvety sand and refreshing, calm clear waters for swimming. "startScreen": "gigya-update-profile-screen" Ash James. One of Australias most recognized natural wonders, Uluru draws pilgrims from around the world like moths to a big red flame. May generally makes for a good time to visit as the school holiday crowds have not yet arrived. }, { The Barossa Valley is one of Australias premier wine-producing regions, so if youre a fan of vino, this is the place to visit. All prices quoted are in Australian dollars (AUD). This is winter-time in Australia, so up in Queensland, the temperatures drop to a comfortable level as well. Search for flights Search for hotels 2. Dj vu! ago. Let's start planning your ultimate holiday. and plenty of spots to stop and eat some fish and chips on the beach. 1.2.1 Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park. Aboriginal stories, Asian influences, colonial-era streets, old-school pubs, dramatic architecture and always the water: Sydney is defined by its relationship with the briny sea air. Information on listed products and services, including Covid-safe accreditations, are provided by the third-party operator on their website or as published on Australian Tourism Data Warehouse where applicable. 2. "homePagePath": "/content/australia/en_us.html", Hopefully, this article on where to go in Australia will inspire some of you to explore one, two, or all eight of this countrys incredible regions. 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. Of course, this isnt strictly news, as Australia has long been one of the most popular destinations on the planet. Table of Contents. 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. While the list of great surf destinations in Australia is endless, these are some of the best surf spots to consider. Glad you enjoyed our blog. VisitRustys Fruit Marketfor 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 theLagoon. At 22 km long, Cable Beach is covered in soft white sand, and perfect for watching the sunset or riding camels. READ MORE: Check out these awesome things to do in Cairns! It is rare to find so many skyscrapers and so many beautiful sandy beaches right next to each other, so travellers can enjoy the vibrant city life and the relaxing beach life at the same time. Swim beside "gentle giant" whale sharks, snorkel among pristine coral, surf off seldom-visited reefs and dive at one of the world's premier locations at this World Heritage-listed marine park, which sits off the North West Cape on the Coral Coast in Western Australia. READ MORE: Check out our list of the best things to do in Jervis Bay! Up there with kangaroos and Akubra hats, big-hearted Byron Bay (just Byron to its mates) is one of the enduring icons of Australian culture. Justifiably one of Victorias most popular tourist destinations, the, snakes all along the southwest coast of the state, starting in Torquay (1.5 hours from Melbourne) and finishing just before Warrnambool. }, {"PageInfo":{"template":"","component":"PageInfo","jcrCreated":"Wed Nov 30 16:15:49 AEDT 2022","jcrCreatedBy":"","lastModifiedBy":"","lastModified":"Wed Nov 30 16:15:49 AEDT 2022","contentType":""},"Hero":{"component":"Hero","subTitle":"","title":"<p>Start planning your trip to Australia<\\/p>\\r\\n","playerId":"default"}}. You can swim with whale sharks (dont worry, theyre 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. This is really interesting, you are such a great blogger. If you're looking to head out on the water there are numerous reef cruises and tours that will occupy you for the whole day. Best places to visit in Australia Sydney and surrounds. What the weather . At over 110 meters long, as towering 15 metres from the ground in a dazzling array of sandy reds and browns and greys, Wave Rock is an awe-inspiring natural wonder 2,700 million years in the making that's one of Western Australia's most stunning examples of Mother Nature's prowess. Casual dining standards in the region have hit the stratosphere (the Farm, which houses a provedore, a bakery, a classroom and the eponymous farm, is a must-visit). As the countrys largest national park, Kakadu is an incredible place to include for best holiday destinations in Australia. inheritors of the longest continuous culture on earth, Australia sets out plan to open borders to international travel, sun worshippers lying on its famous beaches, Citizens of the Great Barrier Reef to help save it, explore several coral-clad spots on a long day trip, World Heritage-listed Daintree rainforest. This coastal town has plenty of stunning beaches, includingWest Beach, Blue Haven Beach, Lovers Beach,andFourth Beach. Other attractions in the area includeLake Hillier, the famous pink lake, and theRecherche Archipelagowhere you can find adorable seals and sea lions living peacefully. Travel time from Adelaide CBD: approx. }, Heide - a tree pictured at the Heide Museum, an art museum in Bulleen, a suburb of Melbourne in Australia. After four years of working in hospitality, volunteering abroad and travelling for fun, Gabby has developed a knack for budget travel and admiration for different cultures. -Cindy from Free Two Roam Christchurch, New Zealand Bumped from the bucket lists in 2011 following the devastating earthquakes that shook the region, Christchurch, New Zealand, is set for a comeback. Swimming with whale sharks is one of those bucket list items that you will never forget, and the fact that you don't have to travel to the likes of Mexico or the Philippines to do so makes this even more enticing. This coastal town in northern New South Wales has completed its transformation from hippie town to a boho-luxe getaway destination of late, but were not mad about it. Best known for its stunning gorge, Katherine is close to national parks, thermal hot springs, historic landmarks and incredible Mimi Aboriginal art. Phillip Island features coves, caves, rocky shore inlets and beautiful beaches where you'll no doubt be able to discover something unique or impressive. The classic way to see this world heritage site is to clamber aboard a catamaran and explore several coral-clad spots on a long day trip. From rainforests teeming with wildlife and cosmopolitan cities, to some of the harshest living environments on the planet, this incredible country provides virtually every kind of travel experience needed to satisfy anyones wanderlust. Perths best attractions include theKings Park and Botanic Gardens,theFremantle Prison, Coogee Beach,and theSwan Valley wineries. 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. With so much to see and do, Tasmania is quickly becoming one of the best places to visit in Australia. Plenty of whale watching tours are available to take you to the harbour and beyond, with many of the tour operators offering a free return trip if you don't spot any whales on your cruise. Table of Contents Top Places to Visit in Australia 1) Melbourne 2) Karajini National Park 3) Ningaloo Reef 4) The Whitsundays 5) Darwin 6) The Snowy Mountains 7) Sydney 8) Esperance 9) The Daintree Rainforest 10) Tasmania 11) The Southern Highlands 12) Jervis Bay 13) Adelaide 14) The Great Barrier Reef 15) Noosa 16) Kakadu National Park 17) Broome Sea Lions on Kangaroo Island, South Australia. While summer is just around the corner, the best time to visit most tropical regions in May. Whether youre 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. May will be a lovely time of year to visit Italian historical sights, ruins like Pompeii, and interesting places like Alberobello (Puglia, southern Italy), with its Trulli - strange, conical-roofed houses. Once overlooked by most Australians, Tasmania now finds itself at the center of a tourism boom. Sign in to get trip updates and message other travellers.. India ; Hotels ; Things to do ; Restaurants ; Flights ; Holiday Rentals ; Package Holidays A renowned nature-rich region, Phillip Island, off the coast of Melbourne, is one of the best places to go in Australia in May for those who want to combine impressive natural scenery and wildlife. This is a great place to learn how to surf! The Nobbies is also host to a blowhole that spouts an impressive volume of water from the sea high into the air. After exploring in the wilderness, you can stop by one of the many adorable local towns likeBowralorRobertsonto grab a classic Australian pie or browse through an antique shop. Pay later. 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. 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 likeLitchfield National Park andKakadu National Park. Australia has six states and two territories, each offering a vast number of unique tourist attractions for travellers to enjoy. , which houses a provedore, a bakery, a classroom and the eponymous farm, is a must-visit). } One of the most beautiful and clean places to visit in Australia is not exactly a beach but a peninsular area in Sydney. Darwin's main natural attraction is its wide sandy beach lined with open-air beer bars, seafood restaurants and multinational shops. The Southern Highlands is the ultimate genteel getaway: full of quaint villages, winding walking trails, andFederation-era pubs for adrink along the way. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. Thank you so much. Located in the Northern Territory, Kakadu National Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Daintree Rainforest, Queensland The largest tropical rainforest in Australia, The Daintree spans an incredible 1,200 sq km, bursting with ancient ferns and vines. Drive slowly along roads that curl beside spectacular Bass Strait beaches, then whip inland through temperate rainforest studded with small towns and big trees. If all of that gives the impression that finding stuff to do here is difficult, weve got news for you. Ash James. Temperatures settle around the 26 degree Celsius mark, so swimmers will be able to comfortable dive in and explore the vibrant coral reef. Sydney is not only the capital of the country but also the most loved and visited Australia tourist attraction. 8. Water temperatures in the region hover at around a comfortable 26 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit), so you'll be sure to have a comfortable swim. The season runs from March to September, so if you can't get out to the WA coast by May, don't stress, as these giant fish will be around for a little longer still. Ash James. Australia Holidays. From forest trails to steam railways, these inspiring spots around Melbourne make for great day trips, and none of them require a car to reach. As far as nature triple threats go, its hard to beat this place: there are sugar-white beaches to explore, plenty of native wildlife to find and even a national park right at your doorstep. Big Australian wineries like Penfolds, Yalumba and Jacobs Creek are located here, but wed recommend visiting smaller producers like Charles Melton and Rockford Wines if youre after true Aussie hospitality. Disclaimer, 25 Most Amazing Ancient Ruins of the World, 14 Best Things to Do in Marthas Vineyard. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Weve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planets best destinations and adventures. Explore epic national parks. Please visit the operators website for further information. You'll find some of our favourite small spaces in secluded patches of nature, with kangaroos and a few cockatoos for company. Young people are flocking back to the area to enjoy the multitude of cultural festivals on offer year round wine, beer, art, food, music. Darwin is home to a few great museums and galleries, including the fascinatingMuseum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territorywhich showcases art and technology from the Pacific. Plus, FNQ is also home to a stunning amount of big things, including the Big Crab in Cardwell, the Big Barra in Daintree and the Big Marlin in Cairns. Download or order the latest edition of Australia The Ultimate Guide, { For many backpackers,Byron Baysits at the top of the bucket list for an Australia trip. Dolphins at Bunbury, Western Australia. Barossa Valley. , including the Big Crab in Cardwell, the Big Barra in Daintree and the Big Marlin in Cairns. This cluster of eroded, orange-tinged granite boulders have been chilling here for over 500 million years. 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 natural beauty of Byron Bay still manages to outshine the touristy atmosphere, making the area peaceful and beautiful. Hot Tip: Whale watching season officially begins near the middle of May in Sydney and some operators may no be offering money-back guarantees until the peak season is over. Were glad you asked. Whether you're visiting Australia for the first time or the tenth time, these are the must-try Australian travel experiences. The most popular ski resort isThredbo, located at the foot of Mount Kosciuszko. The closest town isAlice Springs, which is a 7-hour drive away, so Uluru is quite a journey to get to. Quick 5 Best Places to Visit in Queensland 1 - Brisbane 2 - Cairns 3 - Gold Coast 4 - Hervey Bay 5 - Whitsunday Islands 13. Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon! There are numerous small farms, vineyards and breweries owned by passionate foodies who love to show you what their beloved island home has to offer. Don't miss Whitehaven Beach one of Australia's (and the world's) best. The Twelve Apostles craggy rock formations jutting out of wild waters are one of Victoria's most vivid sights, but it's the getting there road trip that doubles their impact. The Blue Mountains(dont 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. For one thing, 40 per cent of Tasmania is preserved as national parks and world heritage wilderness. An evening attraction, the parade lets visitors sit and watch as the adorable penguins make their way back to shore and into their burrows after a big day in the water. Deeply cleaved with narrow gorges sheltering tufts of vegetation, these 36 pink-red domes blush intensely at sunset. Snorkelling or scuba diving is the best way to get up close to the reef and observe marine life with your own eyes. Photograph: Darren Jew/Tourism Port Douglas and Daintree, Up north the weather is fine, youre surrounded by UNESCO World Heritage icons, and tropical weather means tropical produce. The citys biggest event is theAdelaide Festival, which occurs every year in March and bursts with art and culture. From crocodile-spotting inYellow Waterto swimming inJim Jim Falls, to witnessing ancient Aboriginal rock paintings inUbirr, to hiking and camping in the bush, there are plenty of amazing things to do here. 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. It's an island with sand dunes, dingos, tidal pools and shipwrecks. 14 Incredible Things to Do in Adelaide, Australia, The Ultimate Western Australia Road Trip Itinerary, Queensland Road Trips 11 BEST Drive Itineraries [2022]. 3 hours 45 mins Address: Robe, SA, 5276 Mount Crawford Forest A neat hour-long stint northeast of Adelaide gets you to the Northern ridge of the Mount Lofty. You might even spot a Banksy or two. Whether you dive on it, snorkel over it or explore it via a scenic flight or a glass-bottomed boat, this vivid undersea kingdom and its coral-fringed islands are so unforgettable people are signing up to becomeCitizens of the Great Barrier Reef to help save it. Phillip Island Nature Parks A renowned nature-rich region, Phillip Island, off the coast of Melbourne, is one of the best places to go in Australia in May for those who want to combine impressive natural scenery and wildlife. The only accommodation availableisin Yulara village, 12.4 miles (20km) from the Rock. The country is huge, and lots of its amazing attractions are widely spread out across the continent. Late fees and additional eligibility criteria apply. If youre coming for the beautiful beaches, we recommend sticking around for the restaurants, the culture and the good vibes (but also the beaches). A vibrant metropolis of over 4 million, Sydney is famous for its excellent cuisine, nightlife, shopping, and cultural attractions; and, of course, the Sydney Opera House! The Great Barrier Reef is by far the top of the bucket list of places to visit in Australia for most travellers. If you can bear to tear yourself away from the deliciouscycle ofbeer, beach and beautiful food, the Cape Byron Walking Track is worth the effort. Rivaling the Great Barrier Reef for beauty, Ningaloo has more accessible wonders: shallow, turquoise lagoons are entered straight from the beach for excellent snorkeling. Here are the most beautiful places and the best cities to visit in Australia. 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. If you want to experience real wilderness, this is one of the easiest and best places to visit in Australia. Snorkel the Whitsundays, tour the Opera House or bushwalk at Wilsons Prom; all with your trusted travel companion. Surrounded by national parks that snake all the way into the heart of the city, this urban jungle sometimes feels more like an actual one which makes it even more exciting. There are underground caves to explore, historic towns to visit and wildflowers to ogle. You can try your hand at zip-lining through the lush canopy or take a river cruise to spot some crocodiles - the adventures are endless in this flourishing green paradise. For the ultimate in slow travel, walk the Great Ocean Walk from Apollo Bay to the Apostles. 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. Stingrays in Hamelin Bay, Western Australia. When you arrive at the Whitsundays, you realize that place actually exists. Melbourne, Victoria The city of Melbourne, the capital of State of Victoria. The region primarily focuses on big reds (mostly shiraz and cab sav), but youll also find a healthy selection of grenache, riesling and chardonnay. Perth. READ MORE: Explore the area with this epic Great Ocean Road drive itinerary! Dont miss a trip to the Daintree Rainforest, either; this verdant paradise features movie-cool waterfalls, clear blue lakes, sunlight shimmering through the trees, tropical vegetation and exotic wildlife. Up taken near the Great Ocean Road, Australia. South Australia is one of the major wine-producing regions in the country and the Barossa Valley is the hub. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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. The long lazy stretch of summer holidays beckons Down Under and, given its size, Australia offers a vast variety of holiday choices. If youre wondering where to go in Australia, chances are you will begin your journey inSydney. Voted as the world's most livable city and also probably Australia's coolest city with vintage shops, graffiti-covered backstreets, quirky cafes, and hidden bars with hipster vibes, Melbourne deserves a spot on your Australian itinerary. Slice of paradise regions in May a slice of paradise of its attractions... Getaways such as the countrys largest National Park, Kakadu is an amazing day trip from Adelaide or in. Availableisin Yulara village, 12.4 miles ( 20km ) from the Coonawarra to several with! A breakdown of our comprehensive travel guide to Australia, so be to! Breakdown of our top places to visit in Australia country but also most. Kakadu is an equally beguiling clutch of stone siblings known as Kata.! 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