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The Best Places to Visit in Australia
From the plunging gorges of the Northern Territory to the sprawling reefs of Ningaloo, these are the best places to visit in Australia.
From the wildlife wonders of Phillip Island to the contrast of desert and ocean at Ningaloo Reef, and the lush rainforest canopies of Tamborine Mountain, Australia offers travellers an unparalleled diversity of experiences. This guide covers our picks in every state and territory, from remote island getaways to weekend escapes within reach of the capitals.
- Best Places to Visit in Tasmania
- Best Places to Visit in the Northern Territory
- Best Places to Visit in Queensland
- Best Places to Visit in South Australia
- Best Places to Visit in New South Wales
- Best Places to Visit in Victoria
- Best Places to Visit in Western Australia
- FAQs About the Best Places to Visit in Australia
Best Places to Visit in Tasmania
Bruny Island
A nature-lover’s delight off the coast of Hobart, Bruny Island is as far south as you can go before hitting Antarctica. It brings a little of the two countries together, and the result is magnificent. One day, you’ll see arctic wildlife like penguins and seal colonies; the next, you’ll explore the rainforest and tick off some of the island’s many walking trails, spotting unique animal and plant species.
Bruny Island is a foodie’s dream, and no visit is complete without indulging in its best exports: cheese, raspberries, black cherries, oysters, and wine.
Sitchu Tip: The best way to discover the remote and natural beauty of this island is to embark on an immersive three-day expedition with the Tasmanian Walking Company. Spend your day taking in the sweeping landscapes and abundant wildlife sightings before settling in at Tasmanian Walking Company’s secluded forest camp, where chef-cooked meals packed with local produce await.
Location: Bruny Island, TAS
Best For: Honeymoon, Nature lovers, Adventure, Coastal
Explore our full guide of things to do on Bruny Island.
Huon Valley
Just a short drive south of Hobart is Tasmania’s Huon Valley. Known widely for its salmon production and apple orchards, as well as craft cider makers and boutique winemakers, it’s little wonder that with so much emphasis on homegrown produce, the region has quickly become a foodie destination.
Epic mountain ranges and World Heritage-listed national parks with forests, caves, and bush walks aplenty, rounds out the action-packed offering.
Location: Huon Valley, TAS
Best For: Weekend escape, Foodies, Wine lovers
Need To Know: The Taste of the Huon festival is held in March each year, showcasing the best fresh produce in the region.
Explore our full guide of things to do in the Huon Valley.
Flinders Island
Over stretches of beautiful coastline, you’ll find swathes of natural bushland, more than 120 secluded beaches and exceptional dining experiences centred around the freshest seafood, locally grown produce, and hand-raised meats on Flinders Island.
Outdoor enthusiasts will be in their element with endless opportunities for adventure. From snorkelling and fishing to cycling through its rugged landscapes, there is no shortage of activities to experience. Go off the beaten track and discover some of the island’s attractions, from Castle Rock and Palana Beach to Strzelecki National Park.
Sitchu Tip: If you’re visiting Tasmania for the food and wine, add The Flinders Wharf, Unavale Vineyard, and the landmark Flinders Island Bakery to your foodie trail. For a stroll, look no further than Trousers Point.
Location: Flinders Island, TAS
Best For: Coastal, Beach, Adventure, Nature lovers
Best Places to Visit in the Northern Territory
Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge)
When you picture the Northern Territory, you think red dirt, harsh terrain and desert, and, whilst it is home to all those things, it is also home to a veritable oasis of waterfalls, gorges, and swimming holes. The 23-million-year-old gorge is made with 70-metre-high sandstone cliffs and complete with thundering falls and rapids.
Enjoy the natural beauty of the river on a scenic and informative boat cruise, or paddle down the river, enjoying the beauty of being in clear, cold water. Take in the full spectrum of colours and enjoy chasing waterfalls and swimming in natural rockpools.
Location: Katherine Gorge, NT
Best For: Adventure, Nature lovers, Remote escape
Best Places to Visit in Queensland
Great Keppel Island
Sitting on the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef, this island is as laidback as it gets. Made of 90% bushland, it’s beautifully rugged and fringed by 17 beaches with the tropical tick of approval: white sand, azure waters, and pure tranquillity.
Dive into the crystal clear water to see coral, candy-coloured fish and marine life. Like all the best island getaways, Great Keppel Island is all about barefoot beach living — dig your toes in the sand, swing in a hammock, and relax in paradise.
Location: Yeppoon, QLD
Best For: Bush, Remote escape, Coastal
Tamborine Mountain
A lush mountain haven in easy proximity to Brisbane, Tamborine Mountain is pretty as a picture with its small village-like feel and national parkland. Tamborine Rainforest Walk takes you through the middle and upper canopies of the trees and makes for an unforgettable experience.
Go underground at the glow worm caves and stop by the cellar doors. In the national park itself, there are natural swimming holes and walking trails.
Location: Tamborine Mountain, QLD
Best For: Nature lovers, Foodies, Adventure
Lady Elliot Island
Lady Elliot is a coral cay island on the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef — visiting here means you will get to view one of the world’s natural wonders up close and personal. From snorkelling and glass-bottom boat tours to your self-paced island exploration, you will encounter stunning tropical fish and maybe even some turtles, dolphins, or rays.
Location: Lady Elliot Island, QLD
Best For: Honeymoon, Nature lovers, Beach, Remote escape
Need To Know: The island has very limited occupancy. If you can’t manage to book a night, opt for a day trip from Hervey Bay.
Best Places to Visit in South Australia
Port Lincoln
Perched on Boston Bay, the largest natural harbour in Australia, daily life here revolves around the sea. From the pristine South Australian waters, fishermen haul in world-class seafood, and brave souls jump in cages to spot great white sharks offshore.
On the other side of the peninsula, Coffin Bay is home to some of the best oyster-shucking experiences in Australia.
Sitchu Tip: Perched in a secluded spot just 100 metres from Sandy Point Beach, Eyre. Way Yambara is a private oasis with sweeping views of Sleaford Bay and the Port Lincoln National Park.
Location: Eyre Peninsula, SA
Price Guide: From $550 per night
Best For: Coastal, Adventure, Nature lovers
Kangaroo Island
Perfect for an off-grid escape where nature takes centre stage, this beautiful island captures heart’s with natural beauty, mesmerising wildlife, amazing, locally sourced food, a pristine coastline, charming cellar doors, tasty wines and, of course, plenty of kangaroos.
With an island-wide focus on sustainability, there are lush eco-villas to rest your head (we love Ecopia Retreat and Stowaway), you can drive along Emu Bay Beach, and take an unforgettable journey through Flinders Chase National Park.
Location: Kangaroo Island, SA
Best For: Honeymoon, Nature lovers, Adventure, Coastal
Explore our full guide of things to do on Kangaroo Island.
Best Places to Visit in New South Wales
Jervis Bay
One of the NSW South Coast’s most beloved weekend escapes, it’s all about choosing your own adventure on this scenic slice of coastline, where native bushland spills over onto pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Peaceful, quiet, and simply stunning.
The town is small (meaning no shopping village, but with Vincentia and Huskisson close at hand, locals are never left wanting.), boasting several streets of towering gum trees and beachside abodes.
Nature lovers are encouraged to deep dive into Jervis Bay Marine Park, a wildlife sanctuary just off the coast of Hyams Beach. Kayak amongst the playful sea lions, or swim with bottlenose dolphins. During the colder months, the migration of humpback and southern right whales is a highlight.
Location: Jervis Bay, NSW
Best For: Coastal, Weekend escape, Beach, Nature lovers, Dog-friendly
Explore our full guide of things to do in Jervis Bay.
Byron Bay
A beachside town that thrives on its laid-back village vibe, Byron Bay’s surfie town has a zest for life that’s all-embracing.
The lush subtropical climate is an outdoor lover’s dream. The hinterland’s rolling hills and rainforests are begging to be explored, and the dramatic coastline is a prime spot for surfing, diving and whale-watching. Coastal walks are in abundance, some will take you up to the iconic Byron Bay Lighthouse and others through national parkland to some of the best surf breaks you’ll find in Australia.
Sitchu Tip: For a luxury stay in the centre of the action, book yourself into iconic brand Raes’ newest residence, The Bonobo Byron Bay.
Location: Byron Bay, NSW
Best For: Girls’ trip, Coastal, Luxury, Honeymoon, Beach
Explore our full guide of things to do in Byron Bay.
Central Coast
With stretches of beautiful coastline and an enchanting hinterland region, the Central Coast boasts some of the most charming coastal vistas in NSW. Just over an hour north of Sydney Harbour and its famous landmarks, this seaside oasis offers Sydneysiders an idyllic, fuss-free getaway.
There are over 41 beaches and lakes to explore, national parks and a constantly evolving foodie scene. Deviate from the standard road trip and discover some of the Central Coast’s best-kept secrets, from Norah Head Lighthouse and Lobster Beach to The Munmorah State Conservation Area.
Location: Central Coast, NSW
Best For: Beach, Weekend escape, Families, Budget-friendly
Explore our full guide to the best things to do on the Central Coast.
Best Places to Visit in Victoria
Phillip Island
A 90-minute drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island has a lot going for it besides the motorcycle Grand Prix circuit and its adorable penguin community. Stunning beaches, coastal hikes and exquisite local food offerings make anyone want to visit.
Location: Phillip Island, VIC
Best For: Coastal, Nature lovers, Adventure, Families
Need To Know: The main penguin parade viewing area is at Summerland Beach and has tiered seating, providing a 180-degree view of the beach below.
Explore our full guide of things to do on Phillip Island.
Best Places to Visit in Western Australia
Ningaloo Reef
One of Australia’s most unique natural sights, Ningaloo Reef sees the desert meet the sea in a mesmerising merging of colour. A stay here is a bucket list experience, with the greatest draw being a rare swim with the world’s biggest shark, the gentle whale shark.
Location: Ningaloo Reef, WA
Best For: Nature lovers, Beach, Coastal, Remote escape
Rottnest Island
18km off the coast of Perth, Rottnest Island boasts around 60 beaches, all of which are secluded (there’s a good chance you’ll get a stretch of sand to yourself), postcard-worthy and perfect for kayaking, swimming, surfing and fishing.
It’s a haven for snorkellers and divers, the sparkling Indian Ocean is home to coral reefs and shipwrecks that hint at the island’s fascinating history, dating back to colonial times and WWII. Cars are banned, so the best way to explore is by bike. Stop and snap a photo with a Quokka, the cute marsupial unique to Rottnest Island.
Location: Rottnest Island, WA
Best For: Nature lovers, Families, Adventure
Explore our full guide of things to do on Rottnest Island.
FAQs About the Best Places to Visit in Australia
The best place to visit in Australia depends on the experience you’re after, but a few destinations consistently top the list. For a bucket-list reef encounter, Lady Elliot Island on the southern Great Barrier Reef delivers snorkelling with turtles, rays and dolphins. Foodies flock to Tasmania’s Bruny Island and Huon Valley for oysters, cheese, cider and cool-climate wine, while Byron Bay remains the go-to for a laid-back luxury coastal escape. If you’re chasing wildlife, Kangaroo Island and Rottnest Island (home of the quokka) are hard to beat. Wherever you land, Australia rewards travellers who venture off the beaten track.
For first timers, choose destinations that capture Australia’s signature mix of reef, beach and bush. Lady Elliot Island offers an accessible taste of the Great Barrier Reef, with snorkelling among turtles, rays and tropical fish, while Byron Bay delivers the quintessential laid-back Aussie beach town, complete with iconic lighthouse walks and world-class surf. For wildlife you won’t find anywhere else, head to Rottnest Island to meet the famously photogenic quokka, or Kangaroo Island for close encounters with native animals in Flinders Chase National Park. Ease in with a weekend on the Central Coast, just over an hour from Sydney.
Australia is packed with wildlife-rich destinations, but Kangaroo Island, Rottnest Island and Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) stand out. Kangaroo Island stuns with pristine coastline, Flinders Chase National Park and, naturally, plenty of kangaroos, all wrapped in an island-wide focus on sustainability. On Rottnest Island, cars are banned, so you can cycle between 60 secluded beaches and snap a photo with a quokka. In the Northern Territory, Nitmiluk’s 23-million-year-old gorge is a desert oasis of waterfalls, rockpools and towering sandstone cliffs.
Australia’s best island getaways include Bruny Island (TAS), Flinders Island (TAS), Great Keppel Island (QLD), Lady Elliot Island (QLD), Kangaroo Island (SA), Phillip Island (VIC) and Rottnest Island (WA). Great Keppel is 90% bushland and fringed by 17 white-sand beaches, making it ideal for barefoot beach living. Flinders Island offers more than 120 secluded beaches plus exceptional seafood at spots like The Flinders Wharf and Unavale Vineyard. For families, Phillip Island’s famous penguin parade at Summerland Beach is a must, while honeymooners will love the remote coral-cay tranquillity of Lady Elliot Island.
For a quick escape, Jervis Bay, the Central Coast and the Huon Valley are some of Australia’s best weekend getaways. Jervis Bay, on the NSW South Coast, combines pristine white-sand beaches with the chance to kayak alongside sea lions and dolphins in Jervis Bay Marine Park. The Central Coast, just over an hour north of Sydney, offers 41 beaches and lakes, national parks and an evolving foodie scene — ideal for a fuss-free family break. In Tasmania, the Huon Valley is a short drive from Hobart and brims with craft cider, boutique wineries and World Heritage-listed national parks.
The best time to visit Australia depends on the region. Coastal destinations like Byron Bay, Jervis Bay and Rottnest Island shine in the warmer months from November to March, when conditions are ideal for swimming, snorkelling and surfing. Winter (June to August) is prime time for whale watching along the NSW coast, with humpback and southern right whales migrating past Jervis Bay. In the Northern Territory, visit Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) during the dry season from May to October. Foodies should time a Tasmanian trip around the Taste of the Huon festival, held every March.
Has our edit of the best places to visit in Australia inspired some wanderlust? Check out our round-up of the best luxury accommodations on the Great Ocean Road for a road trip to remember, or try our edit of the best tiny cabins in NSW.
