Top 20 Things to Do in Australia: Where Adventure Awaits Around Every Corner
From pristine white sand beaches and red rocky mountains to untamed greenery-filled wildlife, Australia showcases nature’s best. A trip down under which is a major backpacking destination is a great trip to embark. This is why you have to be on your toes with all the best things to do in Australia. Read every bit of the article, bookmark this, and share it with your friends. Here we go, mate! Don’t forget to explore the amazing experiences offered by Australia tour packages to make the most of your journey.
- Dive into the Great Barrier Reef
- Catch a performance at the Sydney Opera House
- Bask in the sun at Uluru
- Take a stroll across Sydney Harbour Bridge
- Enjoy the splendid view from Three Sisters
- Commemorate the lost souls at the Australian War Memorial
- Experience the buzz at Darling Harbour
- Visit Koalas and Kangaroos at Taronga Zoo
- Unwind at the Whitehaven Beach
- Go on a family outing to Warner Bros. Movie World
- Go on a sunset camel ride on Cable Beach
- Visit the Daintree Rainforest
- Sail through the Whitsunday Islands
- Take a road trip along the Great Ocean Road
- Take a hot air balloon ride over Caberra
- Snorkel at the Ningaloo Reef
- Go Wine Tasting in Barossa Valley
- Explore Kakadu National Park
- Take a Parramatta River Cruise
- Discover the Gold Coast’s Theme Parks
1. Dive into the Great Barrier Reef
Vivid with over a thousand colours, Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s most beautiful destinations. Stretching over 2,000 kilometres, the naturally exotic wonderland is woven together by living organisms and surpasses all man-made attractions. Boasting of a rich ecosystem, Great Barrier Reef is abundant with marine organisms and is visited by nearly 1.5 million tourists every year. Book on a boat tour from Cairns and try snorkelling or swimming in the waters. Lunch is generally served onboard and while returning, there is also music on the deck.
Location: Queensland, Australia
Also read: Great Barrier Reef: Explore the Best for Unforgettable Adventures
2. Catch a performance at Sydney Opera House
Even a half-hearted look at the Sydney Opera House is sufficient for you to recognize the iconic attraction. Uniquely built, the structure is eye-catchy and in the nights during special days, it just shimmers & grabs more attention. Wait, we need some attention as well (turns on the light). A performing arts venue, Sydney Opera House is always seen buzzing with one event or the other. Grab the tickets for one of the many shows and soak in the grandeur. On the way out, do stop for a quick photo. Sydney Opera makes for a great backdrop.
Location: Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
3. Bask in the Sun at Uluru
Sacred to the aboriginal people of Australia, Uluru is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Central Australia. Easily one of the recognisable landmarks in Australia, the massive rock formation is teeming with ancient wall paintings, hot springs, and rock caves. As you walk, you feel the distinctive presence of a spiritual aura in the ancient landscape that captivates your senses. The perfect time to get the best out of Uluru is at sunrise and sunset. This is also the time when the attraction glows with multiple shades of bright red.
Location: Petermann NT 0872, Australia
4. Take a stroll across Sydney Harbour Bridge
Nicknamed the ‘Coathanger’, Sydney Harbour Bridge is the one constant in all Australian travel pictures. Why? you ask. The bridge is that famous you can’t avoid it even in a single frame! A perfect vantage point in the city with unparalleled views of the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney coast, the harbour bridge is timeless. Explore the bridge either on a walk or cycle around. For an unforgettable experience in Sydney Harbour Bridge, try the Bridgeclimb Sydney and you will be spellbound with 360 degree-views of pure magic.
Location: Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney NSW, Australia
Also read: 10 Top Free Things to Do in Sydney for an Ultimate Experience
5. Enjoy the splendid view from Three sisters
The name can easily make you think of any fun-filled Hollywood movie with Amy Schumer. But you are nowhere close. Formed over time by erosion, Three Sisters is an unusual rock formation in the Blue Mountains. Named Meehni (922m), Wimlah (918 m), and Gunnedoo (906 m), the natural site is breathtaking. Casting shadows during sunrise and sunset, the rock formations can be best viewed from the Echo Point Lookout. Try visiting Three Sisters as early as possible in the morning to escape from the tourist crowd. Hiking shoes, backpack, and water are a must.
Location: 23-31 Echo Point Rd, Katoomba NSW 2780, Australia
6. Commemorate the lost souls at Australian War Memorial
Built in remembrance of the armed forces who lost their lives in the wars, Australian War Memorial is a significant monument in Australia. Opened in 1941 in Canberra, the war memorial includes a military museum, a shrine, and an extensive archive making it more than just a memorial. Glance through the intriguing display of tanks, aeroplanes, and a miniature version of the battlefields which are a delight to watch. At the Australian War, you can easily spend a whole day Memorial and the experience is moving.
Location: Treloar Cres, Campbell ACT 2612, Australia
7. Experience the buzz at Darling Harbour
Named after the then Governor of New South Wales – Ralph Darling, Darling Harbour is a water-side precinct dedicated solely to tourism and entertainment. Extending along the city centre of Sydney, Darling Harbour is at the prime spot and is a tourist magnet. Crowded with restaurants, entertainment centres, shopping spots, and other popular attractions, a stroll across Darling Harbour can be really exciting. Thanks to the variety of things to do along the harbour, everyone has something in store for them. Tired to walk around? Ride on the motorized train.
Location: Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
8. Visit Koala and Kangaroos at Taronga Zoo
When you are in the land of Kangaroos, you have to experience the wild side of Australia. And the best place to do that is at the Taronga Zoo. Near the Circular Quay along the shores of Sydney Harbour, Taronga Zoo is where you’ll find native & rare species along with a splendid view of the Sydney Harbour. You have the wildlife and the views, what more can you ask for? Must tries in Taronga Zoo include riding on the ferry from the Circular Quay station clicking wonderful photos along the way and nailing the Koala experience.
Location: Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088, Australia
9. Unwind at the Whitehaven Beach
Australia and beaches go hand-in-hand. There are over 10,000 beaches in Australia and there is no way you can explore every one of them during your vacation. While most people suggest Bondi beach, we would not. Bondi beach is overcrowded with tourists and is a bit shabby lately. Instead, head out to the Whitehaven beach, Queensland. You will fall in love with the beach on first look itself. A piece of paradise, the white sandy beach is stunning and is a great place to unwind. Given the intimate location, the beach can be reached only by a boat, seaplane or a helicopter. Some tours provide delicious buffet lunch along with the transit.
Location: Whitsundays QLD 4802, Australia
10. Go on a family outing to Warner Bros. Movie World
Wonderful read: 15 must-eats in Australia
The movie based theme park on the Gold Coast of Australia is a great place for a family outing. Featuring movie-themed rides & attractions, active film studios, motion simulators, and roller-coasters, a day in the theme park is a slice of the movie world. Exhausted trying out all the rides? Wander around the park saying ‘hello’ to all your favourite characters and clicking photos. Visit the park early in the morning and try your hand on all the rides before lunch as it gets really crowded in the afternoon.
Location: Pacific Mwy, Oxenford QLD 4210, Australia
11. Go on a sunset camel ride on Cable Beach
The Cable Beach stretches up to 22 kilometres, having pristine white-sand beach and beautifully clear water. One of the best ways to enjoy such a pristine beach is from the top of a camel. The beach offers Taking a camel ride at the Cable Beach atop a golden blanket with a golden sunset background offers a magical experience in the land down under. This serene golden-pink sunset paired with the pristine clear beach makes this one of the best things to do in Australia.
Location: Cable Beach WA 6726, Australia
12. Visit the Daintree Rainforest
The Daintree Rainforest is one of the oldest rainforests in the world and is located in Queensland. This ancient rainforest offers adventure activities like going on a hike through the forest, taking a heart pumping interactive crocodile cruise. Also, you can hunt mud crabs and pluck bush plants while gaining some ancient knowledge. If you want to relax after these, you can take a luxury spa, take a guided tour through the forest, explore and marvel at the Mossman Gorge, and the Daintree Discovery Centre among others. If you are a history buff and want to be present in an ancient living piece of history, then this is one of the best things to do in Australia for you.
Location: Cape Tribulation Rd, Daintree QLD 4873, Australia
13. Sail through the Whitsunday Islands
If you want to explore beauty, you have to do it right. The Whitsunday Islands are located in the Great Barrier Reef and contain clear turquoise water with white sand beaches and tropical landscapes. Take a calming trip through the sea and encounter diverse marine life in the secluded bays that offer a serene experience. This is an ideal spot for sailing enthusiasts, as the vast island offers a beautiful sail across the waters while offering a peaceful escape from a busy life. For all the marine and sailing enthusiasts, this is one of the best things to do in Australia for you.
Location: Airlie Beach QLD 4802, Australia
Also read: 15 Must-Try Foods on Your Australian Vacation: Must-Try Foods for Your Aussie Adventure
14. Take a road trip along the Great Ocean Road
How can one visit Australia and not do the most iconic thing to do here? Taking a road trip along the Great Ocean Road is one of the most amazing things to do in Australia, as it offers an incredibly beautiful scenic view. You can spot marvellous cliffs, rugged coastlines and famous landmarks along the way. Apart from that, you can also pay a visit to the gorgeous towns like Appolo Bay and Lorne among others while also being able to enjoy the delicious cuisine, relax at the beaches and explore the art galleries.
Location: Great Ocean Rd, Torquay VIC 3228, Australia
15. Take a hot air balloon ride over Canberra
Why not experience the serene beauty of Canberra in the best and most fun way possible? Going on a hot-air balloon ride in Canberra offers a breath-taking panoramic view of the lush greenery, the majestic mountains and the buzzing streets. In addition to this, the hot air balloon traverses the most iconic landmarks, like the Parliament House, the National Museums and more present in the location. For those who want to fly at least once in their life and want to experience the birds-eye view, then this is one of the best things to do in Australia.
Location: Canberra ACT 2601, Australia
16. Snorkel at the Ningaloo Reef
Snorkel at the most pristine coral reef, such as the Ningaloo Reef, which is known for its vibrant marine life with over hundreds of different species, making snorkelling an incredibly exciting experience. You get to glide alongside the manta rays, the spot clownfish and even the whale shark sometimes. The splendid beauty of the Ningaloo Reef, the shallow gardens and even the diverse marine life makes it one of the best things to do in Australia to go snorkelling.
Location: Exmouth WA 6707, Australia
17. Go Wine Tasting in Barossa Valley
The Barossa Valley is known to have a rich culture and history when it comes to making wine and is home to over 150 wineries. It produces varieties of wines like Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Riesling among others. So why miss out on such a sophisticated experience? This is one of the definite things to do in Australia if you are looking for a destination to add to your Australia honeymoon packages. Take a wine tour in the valley, where you get to witness and learn about the wine making process while learning the history behind the each vineyard. But the best part about all this is that you also get to try out wine samples that can be paired with cheese for a classy experience. Apart from that, you can also indulge in the gourmet food experience along with a scenic view for an enhanced experience.
Location: Barossa Valley Way, Tanunda SA 5352, Australia
18. Explore Kakadu National Park
Kakadu National Park is one of the largest national parks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It holds a rich heritage and culture, along with beautiful, serene waterfalls and a wide range of wildlife. Additionally, you can also visit the ancient rock art sites that have been in place for over 200,000 years. If you are looking for a peaceful trip, then reconnecting with nature at Kakadu National Park is one of the best things to do in Australia. Enjoy your trip by taking a boat cruise on the Yellow Water Billabong, and spot crocodiles or even go bird-watching on the cruise. If you are into adventure, you can also hike to the Ubirr spot and take in scenic view.
Location: Kakadu Hwy, Jabiru NT 0886, Australia
Also read: 18 Travel Tips You Need Before Travelling to Australia: Make the Most out of it
19. Take a Parramatta River Cruise
One of the more scenic and relaxing things to do in Australia is to take a river cruise on Parramatta river. You get to take in the city’s beautiful landmarks like the Sydney Harbour, Sydney Opera House and Harbour bridge while also enjoying the natural views. Along the way, you can also find several wildlife and bird species like pelicans and other local birds. This will allow you to leisurely take in the lush greenery, iconic landmarks and riverside suburbs.
Location: Circular Quay, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
20. Discover the Gold Coast’s Theme Parks
If you want fun and excitement, then visiting the Gold Coast’s theme parks is one things to do in Australia. This family friendly experience offers great entertainment and heart-pumping rides. The Dreamworld Theme Park is one of the largest and offers high-speed roller coasters, animal encounters and immersive theme lands. Additionally, you can visit Sea World, which has thrilling rides, interactive dolphin shows and a chance to learn about marine life. Wet’n’Wild is another theme park that has water slides and rides that cater a variety of age groups and sizes. Gold Coast is the adventure capital of Australia and has a wide range of exciting things to do that will guarantee a memorable experience.
Location: Pacific Mwy, Oxenford QLD 4210, Australia
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