Things to Do
Australia is a land of wide horizons, remote wonders, and warm everyday charm. Even after visiting the well-known sights, travellers soon learn that the country holds many more stories in its quieter corners. From ancient mountain ranges to island sanctuaries, these experiences offer new ways to understand Australia and its varied landscape.
1. Cruise along the ancient Kimberley coastline
The Kimberley in Western Australia is one of the most untouched coastal regions in the world. Travellers can take small ship cruises or day trips to see towering red cliffs, remote waterfalls, and turquoise coves. Horizontal Falls, created by fast-moving tides, are one of the area’s most unusual natural features. Wildlife sightings often include turtles, seabirds, and saltwater crocodiles. The Kimberley feels wild, expansive, and deeply connected to Aboriginal history. The stillness of the land and sea creates a sense of awe that stays with visitors long after they leave.
2. Discover the island sanctuary of Lord Howe Island
Lord Howe Island sits far off Australia’s east coast and is protected by strict visitor limits, which help maintain its calm, unspoilt atmosphere. Travellers can snorkel in a clear lagoon, walk through lush forest, or climb Mount Gower with a local guide for wide views across the island. The environment supports rare birds and plants found nowhere else. Because cars are limited and life moves at a gentle pace, visitors often explore by bicycle. The island offers a peaceful break from urban life and an intimate connection with nature.
3. Walk the rugged ranges of the Grampians
The Grampians in Victoria offer sandstone mountains, waterfalls, and a wide network of walking trails. Lookouts such as the Pinnacle and Boroka provide dramatic views across valleys and forest. Wildlife is easy to spot, with kangaroos, wallabies, and native birds often seen along the tracks. The region is also home to important Aboriginal rock art sites that help travellers understand the land’s long history. Small towns such as Halls Gap offer friendly bases for exploring the national park. The Grampians feel grounded, peaceful, and ideal for those who enjoy outdoor discovery.
4. Taste the flavours of the Hunter Valley
The Hunter Valley in New South Wales is one of Australia’s oldest wine regions, known for its crisp wines, relaxed atmosphere, and rolling countryside. Travellers can join vineyard tours, enjoy tastings at cellar doors, or sit down for long, slow meals featuring local produce. The region also offers chocolate makers, cheese producers, and small craft businesses that add personality to the journey. Balloon flights at sunrise reveal the valley from above and create a gentle start to the day. The Hunter Valley’s charm lies in its unhurried pace and warm hospitality.
5. Paddle through the Noosa Everglades
One of only two everglade systems in the world, the Noosa Everglades in Queensland offer a quiet waterway surrounded by tall tea trees and reflective black water. Travellers often explore the area by kayak or canoe, moving through still passages that feel far removed from nearby coastal towns. Birdlife is abundant, and the calm setting encourages slow travel and quiet observation. The surrounding national park protects the ecosystem, making the environment feel undisturbed and pure. The Everglades are a rewarding choice for those who enjoy the peaceful nature without crowds.
6. Wander the Australian National Botanic Gardens in Canberra
Canberra’s Botanic Gardens provide a gentle way to explore the diversity of Australian plant life. Set on the slopes of Black Mountain, the gardens house plants from every major environment in the country, from desert landscapes to tropical rainforests. Visitors can take guided walks, join educational sessions, or simply wander through shaded paths at their own pace. The gardens also support native wildlife, creating a calm pocket of nature close to the city centre. For many travellers, this is an inviting introduction to Australia’s ecosystems without needing to travel long distances.
7. Meet the quokkas on Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island, off the coast of Western Australia, is known for its friendly quokkas, turquoise bays, and relaxed island lifestyle. Cars are not allowed, so visitors travel by bicycle or shuttle, which creates a peaceful rhythm throughout the day. The beaches are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, and the coastal views make every ride enjoyable. Quokkas often move freely around the island, adding to its cheerful atmosphere. The combination of light activity, wildlife encounters, and clear water makes Rottnest a refreshing escape from mainland life.
8. Explore the ancient beauty of the Flinders Ranges
The Flinders Ranges in South Australia offer dramatic gorges, red earth, and a strong sense of geological time. Wilpena Pound, a natural rock amphitheatre, is one of the region’s highlights and can be experienced through walking trails or scenic flights. Travellers may see emus, kangaroos, and wedge-tailed eagles in the open landscape. The Adnyamathanha people have lived in the region for thousands of years, and guided cultural tours help visitors understand the stories tied to the land. The Flinders Ranges feel timeless, offering space to reflect and appreciate Australia’s ancient foundations.