Vast deserts, renowned beaches, unique wildlife and diverse cities. How do you choose where to visit in Australia? Or best time to visit Australia? Especially in this spread out country where you need to travel far and wide to see everything.
Travellers will have varying preferences when visiting Australia. These destinations below focus on beaches and sunsets with interesting facts about each destination.
The best time to visit Australia will depend on your priority destinations. The summer months (Nov-Jan) are extremely hot in places like Darwin and northern Australia and its best to visit here from April to November.
However, the best time to visit Australia in the southern states is before May, when the weather turns cold.
If you love incredible beaches and warm weather, here is a list of some of 5 must see Australian places, to assist in choosing which epic sights to prioritise on your trip.
Rottnest Island, WA
Rottnest Island is a destination that lives up to all the reviews. This gorgeous, clean and protected island is a short ferry ride from Perth, and one to add to your list if you’re travelling on the west coast of Australia.
I visited in 2022, and was ultra impressed with the large number of stunning beaches, turquoise water and the laid back atmosphere.
Rottnest really is a natural and beautiful island to visit. And being slightly over an hour from Perth, it’s easy to visit Rottnest Island for a day trip.
Other features of the island are the famous quokkas, cafes and restaurants and a visitors centre.
Key beaches to visit on Rottnest Island are Little Salmon Bay, Geordie Bay and Fays Bay.
Byron Bay, NSW
A must see list could not be complete without mentioning Byron Bay.
Most people are familiar with the activities and climate of this unique part of Australia, resulting in Byron Bays increased popularity over the last 3 decades. Byron Bay and the surrounding areas are a unique experience especially for first time visitors.
Relaxing swims, beach walks, shopping and a wide choice of food and drink options. Whatever your preference there is something in Byron for everyone.
The long list of stunning beaches includes Belongil Beach, The Wreck, Clarkes Beach, The Pass, Little Wategoes, Wategoes Beach, Tallow Beach, Cosy Corner, Broken Head, Kings Beach, Brays Beach, and Whites Beach.
Some beaches are more easily accessible than others. Clarkes Beach and The Pass are best suited to young families while Kings and Brays Beaches require a steep hike down the cliff for access.
The climate in Byron Bay is sub tropical, with mild winters and hot and humid summers. The town becomes super busy in school holiday times. If you prefer some peace and quiet, it’s best to visit in the off peak seasons.
Fraser Island, QLD
Visiting Fraser Island is one of the must see Australian places to visit, where you can 4wd along the vast sandy beaches. Note- you will need a permit beforehand for driving on the island.
Traveling to Fraser island is a treat. Between the wide sandy beaches are idyllic swimming spots like Lake McKenzie or Lake Wabby. These crystal clear lakes are like paradise on this remote island.
To reach Fraser Island, you can fly from Brisbane, Melbourne or Sydney to Hervey bay, which is the ferry transfer point for trips to the island.
Hervey bay is also easily accessible by public transport, as it is a stop for all main bus and train routes along the east coast of Australia.
Don’t miss the spectacular drive along the full length of 75 Mile Beach or spotting some wild dingoes!
DARWN, NT
Darwin is an interesting city in far north Australia. The Northern Territory capital city has extreme weather conditions, and a country town atmosphere. The beaches here aren’t as epic as other areas in Australia. But the sunsets are incredible!
The Waterfront Precinct on the Darwin Harbour is a draw card of the area. Other popular things to do are visit Mindil beach or Fannies Bay or take one of the nearby day trips to Litchfield National Park or Kakadu National Park.
Darwin has two seasons – wet and dry. During the climb to the wet season the humidity rises until in November the heavy rains begin. The dry season is milder and an easier time for travelling. The best time to visit Australia in these north Australia states is between April and November.
Darwin city has been rebuilt a number of times due to cyclones and the Japanese air bombings in 1942.
Cape Leveque, WA
Rich indigenous history and the spectacular environment, has put Cape Leveque on the map for many travellers. Visiting this extremely remote area is undoubtedly one of the must see places in Australia.
Cape Leveque is on native title land, where the locals invite you to share the pristine, diverse wilderness and unique landscape.
Located 2 and a half hours drive north from Broome, or you can fly direct from Broome or Derby.
As you will be travelling across Aboriginal land, please respect the culture of the people, by observing the no entry signs on private roads. These signs protect law grounds, burial sites and other traditionally significant areas.
The best things to do at Cape Leveque are relaxing and taking in the incredibly unique and stunning surroundings. Fishing, swimming, snorkeling, hiking and whale watching are all popular here.
CONCLUSION
Deciding where to travel to and the best time to visit Australia, can be tricky, depending on your budget and available time. These 5 Must See Australian places are only a handful of the countless incredible sights throughout Australia. But they are some of the most memorable and naturally beautiful destinations I have visited in this nation!
Surrounding these unique destinations are many other lesser known areas of Australia, to also consider visiting.
Close to Rottnest Island are other beautiful beaches on Australia’s west coast to visit. Byron Bay has long stretches of quiet beach as you travel away from town, or lush hinterland to explore. Hervey bay in southern Queensland is a whale watching hub, close to Fraser Island. Darwin has many day trip options to experience the real Australian outback. And the city closest to Cape Leveque is Broome, the culturally diverse town on the gorgeous Cable Beach which is one of the must see places in Australia.
Wherever you decide travel to in Australia, there will be plenty of destinations and activities to experience in this wide and beautiful land!
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