101 ways to holiday in Australia

With 35,877 kilometres (22,292 miles) of coastline, Australia was made for coastal walks – and no two trails are the same. You might find yourself trekking along a white sandy beach, or through lush rainforest. Take a day hike, or make it a multi-day adventure.

With friendly locals, luxe accommodation and endless activities on offer, Australia is a great destination for solo travellers. Make new mates along the way by booking a tour or class, or simply enjoy the solitude. You don't have to look far to find seclusion on Australia's many beaches and walking tracks. 

From expansive outback drives to roads that hug the coastline, there's no better place for a road trip than Australia. Answer the call of the open road on one of the country's iconic routes, or find a hidden gem you've never experienced before. Be sure to stop into local visitor centres to get the best tips on roadside stops, picnic spots and incredible lookouts. 

Australia is sometimes called the 'island continent,' and its a fitting name when you consider the 8,222 fringing islands that dot its shores. Whether by tiny fishing boat or luxury superyacht, paradise seekers can island-hop along Australia's shores to find endless beaches and colourful reefs to snorkel. 

Australia's ski resorts receive their fair share of skiers and snowboarders each winter season, but this isn't the only way to experience Australia's snowfields. Try your hand at snowmobiling, dog sledding, tobogganing, snowshoeing, fat biking or tubing. And don't forget to come back to these snowy regions in the off-season to enjoy hiking, mountain biking or kayaking. 

Think all road trips are the same? With untamed beaches, giant sand dunes and freshwater lakes, 4WD tours offer a chance to journey into some of Australia’s most remote and challenging landscapes. Leave everything up to the professionals and arrange a private trip, or choose from various 4WD safari tours around the country. 

Sydney Harbour’s ferries are a part of the fabric of the city, and they're not just for locals' commutes. Riding a ferry is a great way to see icons like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge up close, and every so often passengers are treated to wildlife shows of splashing dolphins, seals and even whales. 

See your own city (or a new city) in a new light with a guided walking tour. Local guides will uncover the often not-so-well-known history and culture of the city, and there are even tours catered to specific interests, like Aboriginal heritage, street art or craft beer. 

There’s a certain nostalgia associated with train travel, and it's not just the romantic scenes you'll see out the window. Board one of Australia's iconic trains and see some of the country's most beautiful landscapes from the comfort of your cabin. 

Australia has some mighty rivers, some even stretching up to 2,500 kilometres (1,553 miles) in length. Board a river cruise to discover the rich history, nature and wildlife that surrounds Australia's river systems. 

Get the ultimate Aussie experience by eating like a local or visiting a local recommendation. Not only will you meet the friendly Aussie locals, but you will also support those smaller businesses trying to get back on their feet after the pandemic. 

For an active and eco-friendly day trip, jump on a bike and head out on one of the old rail trails or scenic cycleways that snake across the country. You can quench your thirst at a winery, brewery or distillery along the way. For a more thrilling experience, tackle a mountain bike trail. 

Australia is one of the world's biggest and least densely populated countries. It's vast and open spaces make it ideal for escaping into nature. Consider an off-grid glamping tent, a solar-powered eco-resort or a luxury lodge in the wilderness. Plus, you don't have to go far from the city to relax and recharge. 

In some of the most stunning corners of the country, sustainability and luxury go hand-in-hand. Australia’s Luxury Lodges collective boasts independent lodges championing a diverse range of sustainable practices. Many of these stays also give guests the chance to contribute to local environmental preservation and regeneration efforts. 

Australia is home to many mesmerising natural attractions, but its extraordinary pink lakes have to be seen to be believed. Take your pick of pink, with incredible lakes to be seen in South Australia, Western Australia and Victoria. 

From reef to outback, through rainforest and grasslands, driving through North Queensland is an unforgettable travel experience. Take a journey on the Waterfall Circuit from Cairns to the Atherton Tablelands to see some incredible lookouts, historic towns and waterfalls. 

Travellers looking to soak in a spa bath will be pleased to know that a spectacular range of natural spas, hot springs and fresh watering holes can be found all over Australia – and most won’t cost you a cent! So sit back, relax and let nature do the rest. 

Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples learned how to navigate by understanding astronomy and the movement of the stars. Tap into this knowledge by pitching a tent in a ‘dark park’, visiting an observatory or booking an after-dark astronomy experience.

There's no doubt you’re familiar with the Great Barrier Reef, but did you know that the country’s northern, western and southeastern coastlines are also underwater playgrounds? You'll find manta rays at Lady Elliot Island, whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef and more than 500 species of fish at Lord Howe Island – and that's just to name a few of Australia's reef experiences. 

Swimming with whale sharks is one of life’s most breathtaking experiences. Each year between April and July, Ningaloo Marine Park becomes the only place on the planet where whale sharks visit so close to shore and in such large numbers. Join a tour in Exmouth or Coral Bay and pick a boat with its own spotter plane for best results.

Australia is known as the home of some of the world’s cutest animals. But none are more photogenic than the quokkas of Rottnest Island. Quokkas are naturally curious, so you do not need to approach them or offer them food to get close enough for a photograph. Simply get down to their level and wait for them to come to you.

Australia’s wildlife parks and sanctuaries play a vital role in conservation efforts for Australia’s native animals, and adding a wildlife experience to your next itinerary is a great way to contribute. Perfect for adults and kids alike, you'll see everything from kangaroos to crocodiles at Australia's sanctuaries. 

Australia is home to some of the world's largest great white sharks, and a handful of local cage diving operators offer the chance to safely meet them face-to-face. If the thought of diving doesn't appeal, South Australia offers the world’s first aqua sub that lets you see sharks up close without getting wet.

With 2,300 kilometres (1,429 miles) to explore, Queensland's Great Barrier Reef offers hundreds of experiences – and with an ‘Environmental Management Charge’ built into every ticket price, you can feel good that each experience you book helps protect the long-term outlook of the reef.

If you're driving around Tasmania, it's possible to glimpse Tasmanian devils scampering near the roads. But, for a guaranteed encounter, head to a wildlife sanctuary where you can observe these endangered animals up close.

Phillip Island’s iconic Penguin Parade allows visitors to catch a glimpse of the island's native little penguins as they come back ashore after a day of fishing. Watch the colony of penguins waddle onto the sand from tiered seating, or book a VIP or guided tour for an up-close look with ranger commentary.

Queensland’s Mackay region is known for its waterfalls, rainforests and ancient volcanic soils – but you can also dive with the notoriously shy platypus. Dives take place at dawn and dusk when the animals are most active. Look out for turtles, fish and other fascinating marine life, too. If you’d rather not get wet, then head to Healesville Sanctuary.

Any way you look at it, Australia is an angler’s paradise. There are dozens of experiences to choose from – including tours that belong on your bucket list – and almost as many fish species to catch. 

Golfers are spoilt for choice when it comes to world-class courses in Australia. Whether you spend the day on coastal links or a championship course, a day on the green combines the best of Australia's nature and laidback lifestyle. Keen golfers can also get exclusive access to some of the most impressive private-member courses in the country with the Great Golf Courses of Australia collective. 

Whether it’s at Anna Bay in New South Wales, North Stradbroke Island in Queensland or elsewhere, there are plenty of locations around Australia where you can hit the sand dunes with a sandboard. Book a sandboarding tour to please the whole family. 

From our spectacular coral reefs to purposely sunken ships, Australia is filled with amazing dive spots. There are over 8,000 shipwrecks in Australia’s oceans, as well as numerous local operators who can guide you beneath the twisted hulls to reveal the stories of these ill-fated voyages. Many also offer the opportunity to swim alongside marine life such as rays and turtles. 

Though the Gold Coast is the most famous destination for theme parks in Australia, there are countless other fun parks located throughout each state and territory. It's a great day out for kids, but adults are also sure to love the thrill.

If you’re feeling particularly brave, Australia offers a number of commercial abseiling locations where you can really get your adrenaline pumping. For a unique and breathtaking descent, take on the world's highest commercial abseil down the Gordon Dam wall in Tasmania.

For a birds-eye view of the forest, try one of Australia’s impressive treetop walkways. Western Australia's Valley of the Giants boasts walkways suspended 40 metres (131 feet) above ground in the forest canopy. Enjoy the view from up here – some trees in this region live for more than 400 years. 

For the daring, there are cliff faces and large boulders all across Australia where you can put your rock climbing abilities to the test. Climbers are spoilt for choice with granite slabs, dolerite ridges and long, coastal trad climbs – there’s almost nothing in the world of climbing that you can’t experience somewhere in Australia.

It’s no secret that Australia is one of the most ‘Instagrammable’ destinations on earth. With its aqua blue waters, white sandy beaches and red desert landscapes, Australia’s diverse colour palette is no stranger to a like, share or geotag. Whether you're looking to build the perfect online aesthetic or seeking bragging rights, your next thumb-stopping photo op is sure to be found hidden in Australia’s vast landscape. 

Australia is home to some premier sports precincts, and budding sports stars can get a behind-the-scenes peek. In Canberra, the Australian Institute of Sport offers guided tours (resuming 2021), and in Sydney you can try your hand at white-water rafting at the Penrith Whitewater Stadium, which was used during the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. 

Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art is the oldest living art tradition in the world. Across the country you'll find rock art dating back tens of thousands of years, offering a priceless look into the past. Book in with a local Aboriginal guide for an authentic experience with Australia's art culture.

Indigenous culture is alive and well in Australia’s urban centres, with easily accessible walking tours as well as museums, galleries and cultural centres to explore. Peruse ancient and contemporary art, discover the history of major cities and participate in cultural practices that have been passed down for generations. 

You can easily spend the whole day wandering through the diverse art galleries located in Australia's cities and towns. Visit a permanent collection, or plan your trip around the ever-changing roster of exhibitions. 

In rural communities across Australia, you can find painted grain silos and water towers. What began as the PUBLIC Silo Trail of Western Australia has spread across four other states to include South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. There are now 70 silo artworks documented as part of the Australian Silo Art Trail.

Whether you’re a footy fanatic, cricket-obsessed or a racing enthusiast, pop by the local sport stadium for a tour and deep dive into Australia’s sporting heritage. Make sure you snap a selfie from the stand. 

Whether it’s checking out the country's ‘Big Things’ or learning about the UFO capital of Australia, there really is something for everyone. Plan a trip around a local event, where you might find yourself sailing on a dry river bed or tossing tuna.

Treat yourself to a staycation and rejuvenate with a pampering session. Visit a day spa, dine at a health-minded restaurant or indulge in a wellness retreat in the wilderness. You can even start your day on the sand with a sunrise yoga session on the beach.

Channel your inner fortune seeker and visit an old mining site. Pan for gold and tour the old sites to understand what life was like for early colonial settlers.  

Experience Indigenous cooking practices that date back tens of thousands of years. Guided bush tucker walks reveal the surprising ingredients growing within the Australian landscape, while outback dining – infused with the unique flavours of the Australian bush – offers a deliciously immersive experience. Alternatively, try your hand at traditional hunting.

You'll find some of the world's most delicious oysters in the clear waters of South Australia, New South Wales and Tasmania. Treat yourself to an unforgettable seafood experience when you book an oyster tour that takes you out into the water. You can even kayak in and out of working oyster farms with RegionX on the south coast of New South Wales.

The humble meat pie is an Aussie treasure. From major cities to country towns, local bakeries can be found selling everything from the classic beef pie to more modern varieties like scallop pie and kangaroo pie. Set off on a road trip to find a pie worth driving for.

With crisp fresh air and water, Australia is ideal for distilling tasty spirits. And with delicious native flavours to work with, it's no surprise that distilleries are getting creative. Try something new when you book a tour or tasting.

Australia has a long history of cooking over fire, and the tradition continues with world-class restaurants, Aboriginal food tours and outdoor dining experiences. Soak up this Australian pastime by cooking up some local produce over an outdoor barbecue. Be sure to check local bushfire restrictions and always follow the advice of authorities.

Learn how to use traditional Aboriginal methods to gather and prepare food, as well as identify and taste seasonal bush foods. Choose from several Indigenous food tours, which can be found in some of Australia's most picturesque locations. 

Australia has some world-class seafood, and one of the best places to get it is at a fish market. Meet local fisherman, embrace the bustling atmosphere and pick from an incredible selection of seafood.

All across Australia, there are basement spaces and old shops that have been transformed into hard-to-find speakeasies. Seek out secret bars behind hidden doors where clever bartenders serve up an array of cocktails with creative twists.

Pack your appetite for a drive through one of Australia's best foodie regions. There are plenty of food trails across Australia, and a trip along any one of them will support the farmers, producers, distilleries and winemakers that you'll find along the way.

Feast on a meal that’s been sourced just steps from where you're enjoying your meal. At a paddock-to-plate eatery, you'll be served only what's in season and sourced nearby.