With a plethora of cities, activities, and experiences to have in Australia, there are a few that make it to the top of the list. These are a just a few must-do and see’s as you find your way around the magnificent country of Australia.
Great Barrier Reef
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is the world’s largest coral reef system on our planet. There are about 900 islands spanning over 2,500 kilometers and nearly 3,000 individual reefs. It’s the most famous coral reef in the world and it’s nothing short of awe-inspiring.
The obvious activity here is diving and you can be sure to find many reputable places to take you exploring in the depths of these lively blue waters. Most people will set off from the nearby Cairns and Port Douglas. You may choose to go on a day trip or a liveaboard trip which you can stay for multiple days swimming with the fish. There is a nearby shipwreck called the Yongala to check out on one of your diving excursions as well.
Blue Mountains
Recently named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 these pristine mountains are only just outside the metropolitan Sydney area. The Scenic Railway is the steepest railway car in the world. It’s only a short trip but the scenery it passes on the way is spectacular including a visit to the canyon floor. There are plenty of hiking and walking trails of all fitness levels in these mountains just like the Giant Stairway which is near Scenic World. These stairs descend to Jamieson Valley where you can see the famous and beautiful Three Sisters rock formations.
The National Pass is a wonderful trail to see the majestic Wentworth Falls, a beautiful plunging waterfall that is worth the 3 hour roundtrip walk. There are plenty of other lookout points, waterfalls, caves and valleys to gawk over in this beautiful part of New South Wales.
Outback Road Trip
How are you going to visit Australia and not experience the Outback? The Outback is the dry and arid regions which consume most of the centre of the country. These remote tracks in the middle of the country provide probably the best and most unique road trip of your life. Riding through open roads through untouched areas. On the way there are plenty of spectacular activities to keep you entertained like the famous Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. The massive Uluru rock can be seen here along with other exciting and beautiful vistas and valleys.
The Great Ocean Road
The 243 kilometer long road runs along side the gorgeous Southern coastal regions of Australia. It runs from Ballarine Peninsula to Portland. Along this road you will find yourself at some of Australia’s most impressive points. Bells Beach is the world’s longest running surf competition holder, Aireys Inlet, Warnambool, and Apollo Bay are popular spots for some excellent sand and surf.
Besides the great cities and towns you will be passing, you might just want to enjoy the ride. You will be looping around majestic mountains and crashing waters. Keep your eyes open and don’t be afraid to randomly turn off the road and visit that random town on your way.
Tasmania
The only island state as well as the smallest of the bunch is the state of Tasmania. Teeming with wildlife and boasting many beautiful beaches, this island packs a lot for it’s small size. Coming here to see the famous Tasmanian Devils might be the first thing on your list, but after an experience with them along with their friends the wombats, kangaroos, wallabies, platypus and any other bush wildlife, it might be time for some relaxing on the beach.
Wineglass Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world so paying a visit here will be a lifetime opportunity. Bay of Fires provides an excellent spot for more beach bumming with fiery red rocks and white sand beaches to entertain the eyes.
Hastings Cave will make for a fun caving adventure, there’s The Nut for some spectacular views of the Bass Straight, and many other nature loving activities to experience.
Surf
Australia has some world-class surf, so if you’re up for grabbing a board and riding a few waves, novice or pro, then this is the place to do it. There is no place around Australia’s coastlines that doesn’t have a surf spot nearby. There are surf camps for those who have never been before, and for all the pros out there, enjoy your surfer haven.
Newcastle
This is the sixth largest city in the country and is located in the New South Wales Region. To take in the views of this marvelous harbour city visit Nobbys Head, great views can be had at the Queen’s Wharf Tower, and take a wander down the streets and admire the wonderful architecture.
There are galleries and museum of interest such as Fort Scratchley where this historic fort sits as a reminder of the 1942 Japanese submarine that surfaced here. There are interesting and beautiful nature gardens and parks in the area as well like The Foreshore and King Edward Park.
Kakadu National Park
This spot boasts over 110,000 square kilometers of sprawling beautiful landscape that is full of Aboriginal culture and nature adventures. This spot holds the highest amount of aboriginal rock art sites in the world. Visit Yellow Water to see some excellent native flora and fauna, Twin Falls and Jim Jim Falls. Natural swimming pools, hikes, and cultural festivals can all be found here as well.
Darwin
Known as perhaps one of the friendliest cities around is Darwin. Located in the north part of the continent, this small yet worldly city is sure to entertain. There are 50 different cultures that call this place home and this fusion of cultures makes for an interesting landscape and lifestyle.
There are historical monuments like the Darwin Wharf Precinct and Lyons Cottage, reminders of the Japanese bombings. Then there are natural activities of interest such as the Bicentennial Park which overlooks Darwin Harbour or Lake Alexander for a nice picnic and a dip in the lake. Wildlife parks, crocodile cruises, Berry Springs Nature Park, the East Point reserve are even more places to get in touch with nature.
Barossa Valley
You must make a visit to any of the wine regions that Australia offers, but if you want one of the best, then Barossa is it. This spot is getting world recognized very quickly and is just outside of the main city of Adelaide. There are magnificent vineyards and wineries in the area, all special in their own way.
Photos by FarbenfroheWunderwelt, Samuel Collins, edwin.11, Graeme Churchard and Pierre Roudier
