Travel: The continent/country in question boasts breathtaking natural landscapes, exotic fauna found nowhere else on the planet, and metropolitan areas that rank alongside the most livable cities in Europe, North America, and Asia.
It’s true that for many of us, getting to this destination can be quite a journey. However, the experience is well worth the time spent traveling.
Once you arrive, it’s important to make the most of your vacation. Here, in no particular order, are the top destinations to visit in Australia. Some of these locations have been previously featured in BgsRaw Travel articles for those who want to delve deeper into the details.
Sydney
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| Sydney Opera House Trust |
There’s a reason why Sydney, the largest city in Australia, is often praised as one of the world’s premier metropolises.
As the capital of New South Wales, it boasts stunning sights like the picturesque Sydney Harbour (the largest natural harbor in the world) and the iconic Sydney Opera House, as well as a vibrant entertainment scene and a selection of top-notch restaurants that are considered among the best in the world.
Of course, we can’t forget about the beaches. While Bondi is undoubtedly the most famous, it’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the sun, sand, and surf options available near the city.
Melbourne
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| Scott Barbour/Getty Images |
Melbourne, Australia’s second-largest city, boasts a plethora of world-class attractions that are not to be missed.
With its rich cultural and architectural offerings and breathtaking outdoor locations, Melbourne rivals Sydney as a top destination for travelers. From the exceptional National Gallery of Victoria to nearby natural wonders like Port Campbell National Park, Melbourne truly has something for everyone.
Perth
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| courtesy Tourism Western Australia |
Although the capital of Western Australia is quite a distance from other major destinations in the country, Perth’s remote location only adds to its allure.
Residents of Perth have long known that their city is a hidden gem, and it has finally gained the recognition it deserves. With its stunning location on the Indian Ocean and pleasant weather (sunny, dry, and warm for most of the year), it’s no wonder why Perth is becoming a popular travel destination.
Brisbane
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| Courtesy Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre |
Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, enjoys a sunny location with a beach located right at the doorstep of its central business district.
The bustling South Bank precinct, situated on the southern bank of the Brisbane River, offers a vibrant mix of cultural and entertainment options that are sure to delight visitors. This is the go-to destination for recreation and leisure in the city.
As a gateway city to the famous beaches of the Gold Coast and other natural attractions, Brisbane provides the perfect starting point for exploring the region.
Cairns
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| Mark Kolbe/Getty Images |
Once you’ve arrived in Cairns, located in the northern tropical region of Australia, you know you’ve truly reached the tropics. As you move farther north in Australia, the climate tends to become warmer.
Cairns is situated along the Pacific Ocean and serves as the gateway to a host of natural wonders, including the Great Barrier Reef and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest.
Despite its relatively small population of around 150,000 people, Cairns offers a burgeoning café scene, a delightful swimming lagoon, and an overall laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxation.
Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef, which came into existence 25 million years ago, is the only living entity on our planet that is visible from outer space.
This massive reef system spans a staggering 3,000 kilometers (1,865 miles) off the coast of Queensland and boasts an incredible array of marine life, including 400 types of coral and 1,500 species of tropical fish.
In addition to popular activities such as diving and snorkeling, visitors can also engage in other exciting pursuits such as fishing and island hopping.
Uluru
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| Mark Kolbe/Getty Images |
Uluru is a captivating sandstone monolith that holds immense spiritual significance for the indigenous Anangu people.
Located in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, approximately 450 kilometers (280 miles) southwest of Alice Springs, the site is no longer open to climbers. Nevertheless, it still serves as an awe-inspiring destination, with plenty of activities to engage in at the park.
As seasoned Australian traveler and retiree Heather White notes, visiting Uluru is akin to scaling the Vatican or Westminster Abbey. Even without climbing the monolith, visitors can still experience the breathtaking beauty and spiritual essence of this remarkable place.
Blue Mountains
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| Cameron Spencer/Getty Images |
Located approximately two hours west of Sydney by car, the Blue Mountains are home to some of the oldest plant species on the planet, including the Wollemi pines, which are often likened to botanical dinosaurs.
This region is a paradise for nature lovers, with towering forests, canyons, sandstone cliffs, and waterfalls that are sure to impress. Hikers, in particular, will be captivated by the breathtaking trails.
Notably, the haze that envelops the scenic views in the Blue Mountains is caused by the eucalyptus oil from the gum trees. It’s a unique characteristic that gives the region its namesake.
Rottnest Island
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| Courtesy Tourism Western Australia |
Rottnest Island, known locally as “Rotto,” is a family-friendly destination just a 25-minute ferry ride away from Fremantle, a Western Australia port town, or 90 minutes from Perth’s Barrack Street Jetty. What makes Rottnest Island worth visiting? For starters, it’s a car-free escape where visitors can explore the island by bike and discover more than 60 beaches on the way. The island also offers activities such as snorkeling, diving, whale watching, and hiking.
Noosa
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| The beaches at Noosa in one word |
Although it may not be as famous as other Australian vacation destinations, Noosa is certainly worth visiting. Located in the southern region of Queensland, this laid-back city has around 52,000 residents and is encompassed by beaches, a river, and national parks. Visitors can enjoy various sports activities such as golf, or simply unwind on the beautiful beaches. Noosa National Park is a must-visit, as it is home to a small yet thriving population of koalas and numerous stunning beaches that will take more than just a day to explore.
Atherton Tablelands
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| Millaa Millaa Falls is just one of many features to see in the Atherton Tablelands. |
Northern Queensland’s Atherton Tablelands provide an excellent recreational space, thanks to its waterfalls and geological phenomena, including volcanic tubes and crater lakes. It’s a lush plateau where visitors can go cave exploring, bird watching, kayaking, and more.
Kangaroo Island
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| There’s more to Kangaroo Island than hopping mammals |
Located off the coast of Adelaide in South Australia, Kangaroo Island is a pristine and exceptional retreat. It serves as a sanctuary for several of Australia’s most cherished and endangered creatures, including sea lions, koalas, cockatoos, and the short-beaked echidna – a small, robust animal with short spines that lays eggs like the platypus.
Kangaroo Island also offers a developing artisan food and wine scene, so you don’t have to worry about roughing it.