Looking for Fun Things to do in Australia? You have come to the right place.
A country of continental proportions, Australia hosts a variety of environments and climates from deserts and mountains to tropical beaches and grasslands.
If you have never been to the land down under—or you haven’t travelled widely—you should consider these 30 cool activities and attractions in Australia – crikey they’re amazing! Never wonder what to do in Australia again with this epic list.
30 Best & Fun Things to do in Australia
1. Island Hop in the Whitsundays Islands
The Whitsundays Islands are a vast archipelago of seventy-four islands just off the coast of Queensland. In proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, here you’ll find fantastic white sand beaches, Australian rainforests replete with trails for the adventure hiker, and quiet beaches and bays where visitors can swim, snorkel, and sail.
This not the place to stay put but to engage in island hopping to your heart’s content, staying in your choice of luxury accommodations while you’re at it!
2. Take a picture with a kangaroo at Lucky Bay Beach
The next time you’re in Western Australia you might want to consider visiting the brilliantly white sands of Lucky Bay.
Not only can you enjoy the beautiful beaches there, but might get a chance to take a picture with the kangaroos that live right there nearby and can be found wandering the coastline near the surf. You’re thinking, only in Australia right?
3. Ride the luxury Ghan train across the Red Desert
Once known as the Afghan Express, now simply called The Ghan, this luxury passenger train offers you the chance to ride the rails in style through the middle of the outback.
Starting from either Adelaide in South Australia or Darwin in the Northern Territory, travellers are treated all sort of amazing sight as it traverses the continent right down the middle. There are popular stops along the way including Alice Springs, the Red Centre, Tennant Creek, and Katherine. One of the top things to do in Australia for sure.
4. Take a cruise of the Kimberley
If you’ve got the budget for it, there is no more captivating an adventure than taking one of the expedition cruises through the stunning scenery of Australia’s Kimberley region.
Most of the cruise lines are in operation during the dry season (Between April and September) each year, but a few options do run starting in March at the tail end of the wet season to give passengers a chance to see the magnificent falls at King Cascade, Mitchell Falls, and King George Falls at their peak flows.
Kimberley cruises normally set out from Darwin (occasionally Kununurra in Western Australia) and end at Broome—or you can do the cruises in the opposite direction. There are so many amazing sites such as Talbot Bay, Montgomery Reef, Bigge Island, and Jar Island to see as you travel the rugged coastlines.
5. See turtles hatch in Bundaberg
If you’re visiting Bundaberg in Queensland in the summer months, you might get the opportunity to see baby loggerhead sea turtles hatching.
One of the more popular ways to witness wonderous sight is to visit the Mon Repos Turtle Centre right there in Bundaberg.
Once there you can have an interactive experience under the supervision of the knowledgeable rangers who will guide you to the nests so you can watch the hatchlings emerge from their nests and start their long crawl towards the water and onward to the sea.
6. Lord Howe Island
Located less than a two-hour flight off the coast from Sydney and Brisbane, Lord Howe Island is a veritable paradise. This island destination a great escape from the cares of world. Only 400 lucky tourists are allowed there at a time, you have plenty of room to move about and soak the solitude along with the amazing natural wonders the island has to offer.
You can luxuriate in posh accommodations like those offered at the Capella Lodge resort make world-class cuisine and spas. Outdoorsy travellers have plenty of beaches to explore.
You can also hike through the lush tropical environs on trails such as the Seven Peaks Walk. Also check out Mount Gower, North Bay, Old Settlement, Ball’s Pyramid, Ned’s Beach, and more.
7. Melbourne
The second-most populous city in Australia, Melbourne has just so much to offer the urban-focused traveller. Boasting world-class restaurants (Farmer’s Daughters, Vue De Monde, and Florentino, among others), fantastic museums, including the National Gallery of Victoria as well as the Royal Exhibition Building (which is a World Heritage-listed site).
Sports fans can catch a match at the famed Melbourne Cricket Ground. History and culture mingle in the many laneways crisscrossing the city – a fun night activity in Melbourne. Street art is tucked into every nook and cranny. The arts thrive in so many ways and Melbourne has a lively and diverse nightlife. There is just so much to do!
8. See Quokkas on Rottnest Island
Get your cameras ready! Just a thirty-minute ferry ride from Perth, wandering just about everywhere on Rottnest Island, you’ll find one of the most adorable creatures in Australia.
The quokka, a furry, little marsupial with a dazzling smile, lives on the island and had become a favourite of many travellers. You can find them near settlements along the coast in places like the Basin, Salmon Point, the Stark Bay headlands, and the dunes of Bickley Bay. Be careful though when trying to get your selfie.
The quokka can be skittish. But if you’re patient the little ones will often come right up to you and let you take their picture. A total must do in Australia.
9. See a Tasmanian devil at Cradle Mountain
If one of your reasons for visiting Australia was to see the famed Tasmanian Devil, then look no further than Devil at Cradle Mountain.
This unique conversation sanctuary is situated just inside the Cradle Mountain National Park in Tasmania. Established to protect and preserve the dwindling population of the devil, it offers guests a wonderful opportunity to see the often elusive nocturnal creatures and there are feeding tours in the evenings as well.
Take look, learn more about them, and try not to flinch when they scream!
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10. Uluru
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Uluṟu, also known as Ayers Rock. is a massive, sandstone formation and one of the most recognizable of Australia’s natural landmarks.
It is located in the southern part of the Northern Territory. The closest town of any size is Alice Springs. The relative remoteness of the site has not stopped it from gaining its status as a popular tourist destination since at least the 1930s.
It’s cultural significance to the Aboriginal people and the presence of ancient paintings makes it one of the most important indigenous sites in Australia.
11. Drive the Great Ocean Road
It’s no wonder that the Great Ocean Road is consider one of most scenic coastal drives on the whole continent—if not the whole world. Located along the southwest coast of Victoria, the road winds through the seaside cliffs with spectacular views of the Southern Ocean.
But more than the rugged cliffs, the verdant landscapes, and lonely beaches, a drive on the Great Ocean Road, while a relatively short trip, offers so much for the traveller to see and do.
Take your pick of beaches, seaside towns, rainforest walks, plenty of spots for hiking, as well as views of the rich variety of flora and fauna. Check out the iconic Twelve Apostles formations!
12. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef
For the avid diver and swimmer, nothing else tops the chance to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef. Visitors from the around the world travel to Australia expressly to venture into the waters off Queensland to look upon one of the most majestic natural wonders on Earth, and at hundreds of kilometres long, the complex coral reef system is, by far, the largest.
Located in the warm, tropical climate of northern Australia, you can begin your snorkelling adventure at any time of the year.
13. Sydney
It’s the biggest city in Australia—and perhaps, the most well-known due in part to the immediately recognizable and iconic Sydney Opera House – which is a great place to visit at night in Sydney. But there is so much else to see and do in this bustling metropolis. It is a centre of arts and culture with numerous museums, like the Australian Museum, The Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Art Gallery of New South Wales.
But the Harbour City also has great eats, with high-class restaurant of startling variety, plus trendy roof top bars, breweries, and a host of nightspots always active and filled with fantastic entertainment.
14. Visit the Northern Territory
Home to famous natural wonders such as Uluṟu (Ayers Rock), the red-rock domes of Kata Tjutu, as well the cliff of Kings Canyon, the Northern Territory sports a wealth of breathtaking scenes. Enter the Red Centre via Alice Springs to explore this unique landscape.
Then you can venture to the coastal city, Darwin, the territorial capital, for plenty of gorgeous ocean views. You can always venture inland again on any of the many tours based in the city. Visit the tropical Kadadu National Park, Australia’s biggest national park to learn about the Aboriginal culture at over 5,000 rock art sites.
Or take a trip to the Katherine Gorge or Litchfield National Park.
15. Blue Mountains and the Three Sisters
Just beyond the outer edges of bustling Sydney in the New South Wales lie the rugged Blue Mountains, which are a part of larger mountainous area called the Great Dividing Range. There are a number of towns situated among the peaks including Springwood, Mount Victoria, Katoomba, and Blackheath.
If you’re traversing the Blue Mountains via the Great Western Highway, you might consider stopping at some of the wonderful sites of natural beauty in the region.
Chief among them, the Three Sisters, near Katoomba, is an unusual rock formation that has received considerable attention, being one of the most often photographed places in Australia. Take the Giant Stairway to get a glimpse of the Sisters.
16. Visit Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island is located 13 kilometres (8 miles) off the coast of South Australia. You can reach this beautiful destination with just a short, half-hour plane ride directly out of Adelaide.
Once you’ve arrived, prepare yourself to experience of the best spots to see a variety of native life including koalas, sea lions, seals, and, yes, kangaroos too.
There are plenty of unique natural features that make Kangaroo Island a fascinating place to spend your time. Fertile farmlands, vibrant fields of lavender, rock formations like the Admiral’s Arch, and the amusingly-named Remarkable Rocks, numerous beaches and bays, as well as the sand dunes of the Little Sahara.
Plus, sample the wine and taste great local cuisine from places like Check out Millie Mae’s Pantry, Island Beehive, d’Estree’s Bakery.
17. Visit Middle Island and discover Lake Hillier, one of Australia’s ‘pink’ lakes
You read that right. Lake Hillier, located on Middle Island, a part of the Recherche Archipelago, just off the coast of Western Australia has a vibrant pink colour to it. One of the best things to see in Australia for locals and tourists.
This makes it stand in stark contrast to the dark waters of the Indian Ocean, separated only by a thin strip of trees and sand. Lake Hillier is about 130 kilometres (70 miles) from Esperance and is about an eight-hour drive from Perth. Your best bet is to take a short flight out to view the spectacle from above.
18. Mataranka Springs
Located in the Elsley National Park, the Mataranka springs are located in the small Northern Territory town of Mataranka. They are reliably a big draw for tourists who want to find relief in either the hot, thermal springs there or the so-called bitter springs.
Take the Stuart Highway if you’re coming from Alice Springs or Darwin. Take advantage of all of the great sights and plenty of hiking also available in the region before sooth those aching muscles in the healing waters of the springs.
19. Airlie Beach
Considered one of the most popular holiday destinations and located near the centre of Whitsundays region, the coastal town of Airlie Beach is a definite must-see. It has a laid back vibe to it and is perfect when all you want to do is soak up some of that tropical sun along beautiful beaches.
But there also great al fresco restaurants when you want great food and entertainment abounds in the bustling markets and waterfront parks. If you love sailing or snorkelling, look no further than the waters of the Coral Sea. For the outdoors adventure type, the nearby Conway National Parks offers rainforests and waterfalls for your delight.
20. Kakadu National Park
If you love all things nature, then you should really check out the Kakadu National Park. This enormous reserve located in the Northern Territory of Australia encompasses tremendous biodiversity and varied terrains, including wetlands, river, and sandstone escarpments.
Wildlife to look out for include saltwater crocodiles and host of bird species. Fishermen might want to take fishing tour and try their hand at catching the famous barramundi. If you’re into native history, 20,000-year-old Aboriginal rock paintings can be seen at Ubirr, Nourlangie, and other sites.
21. Explore the Dandenong Range by steam train
Visiting Melbourne? Why not consider a break away from the city and explore the nearby Dandenong Mountains in style. In about an hour, you can be settled aboard Puffing Billy, a steam engine train.
Sit back and enjoy the ride in the railway’s open-air carriages as you roll through the rainforest. Take in the sights of the fern gullies and towering Mountain Ash trees as you ride. Spectacular landscapes and wildlife await you.
Then, once you’ve ridden the rails, you can visit the Lakeside Visitor’s Centre next to the station for great café food and a chance to visit the souvenir shop.
22. Karijini National Park
If you’re hungry for an outdoors adventure, you’ve got to visit the Karijini National Park in Western Australia. There are loads of trails no matter your skill level, ample places to camp out under the stars. Or if you like, how about a night in luxurious eco-retreat.
Take in your fill of this wonderous place. Venture into the depth of deep gorges or paddle your canoe along the park’s many waterways. Visit Oxer’s Lookout which lies at the junction of four different gorges: the Joffre, the Weano, Hancock, and Red.
23. Watch a penguin parade in Phillip Island
Did you know that Phillip Island is the home of the largest Little Penguin colony on Earth?
Each night when these penguins return home from their time swimming in the ocean, they gather in groups and waddle back to their burrow all under the watchful eyes of tourists gathered on the boardwalks and platforms overhead. If you not, then you’ve got to see the world-famous penguin parade.
24. Go whale watching in Hervey Bay
Located in Queensland, the small town of Hervey Bay has a unique reputation. It’s considered the whale-capital of the world and is the first Whale Heritage site.
People from all over the world travel to Hervey Bay and take any one of the various tours offered there to travel out by boat to get a glimpse of the whales that gather there.
One of the bigger draws is appearance and seasonal residence of humpback whales, once included on the endangered species list. There are accommodations available for travellers who want to make the most of their trip.
25. Daintree Rainforest
The Daintree Rainforest is located on the northeast coast of Queensland. By most accounts is the world’s oldest living lowland which makes it at least 135 million years old but possibly older. One of the best Australian activities.
Take a road trip into this amazing travel destination, splitting your time on taking winding roadway through the dense growth and visiting beaches and even an impressive reef along the way.
Get a close-up view of the indigenous saltwater crocodile while on a boat tour. If you want to learn more about Daintree, visit the Daintree Discover Centre. Luxury lodges like the Silky Oaks Lodge offer you a respite from all of the outdoor activities like a trek on one of the many well-maintained hiking trails.
26. Visit Byron Bay
If you’re traveling to the coast of New South Wales, you won’t be disappointed if you stop in Byron Bay. It is a beautiful, seaside paradise with so much to offer—even if all you want is a restful escape. Walkable and easy-going, the community is a health-conscious and wellness mecca and people flock there for that reason among others.
There are many choices for those who want luxury accommodation for the holiday and the foodie scene is phenomenal!
27. Brisbane
Food, culture, and loads of adventure await you in Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland. This is where you can find museums, art galleries, and restaurants in plenty.
You should check out Howard Smith Wharves and Eat Street Markets! Markets and design boutiques offer so many specialties to entice the shoppers among you.
Or you can have a picnic aboard a boat in the Brisbane River. If you’re up for a little exercise you can take a climb up Story Bridge.
28. Visit Wineglass Bay
Jutting out from the eastern side of Tasmania on the Fraycinet Peninsula, Wineglass Bay is considered one of the top beaches in the world. It is surrounded by the Hazard Range and its pink granite peaks, the bay is also a part of the Fraycinet National Park.
There’s plenty of wildlife to see including Tasmanian Devils, wallabies, long-nosed portoroos, and quolls.
Wineglass Bay is a popular destination for campers as well as beach-goers who want to take in all of the natural beauty of the region. There are still accommodations available for those who like a good food and a comfortable room.
29. Perth
Perth gives you the best of both worlds, offering a convergence of nature and urban culture in the midst of the haunting beauty of Western Australia.
Here you can get your taste of great beaches and vibrant city life filled with fabulous restaurants, intrigue art galleries, al fresca breweries, and neighbourhood markets buzzing with the sound of commerce and musicians plying their skills out in public.
Just a short twenty-five minute trip away from the city, and you can enter the wine country of Swan Valley, which hosts a plethora of wineries, breweries, and other boutique establishments.
30. Adelaide
If you’re a fan of the art and music festival scene, then Adelaide if the place to go. It’s an up and coming scene which has been growing lately. Nestled in South Australia, the nation’s wine capital, you can be sure there are plenty of wineries for wine-tasting adventures. The perfect place for a couple to holiday as there are plenty of date ideas in Adelaide.
Hit the sand of Adelaide’s lovely beaches and enjoy a cold brew in one of the beachfront bars. Take a kayak trip up the River Torrens or a leisurely stroll through the Adelaide Botanical Gardens.
Nearby wildlife conservation parks, hiking trails, and biking options add another range of fun options when visiting this amazing city.
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What are you waiting for? It’s time to plan you next travel adventure. These are just some of the great options available. Don’t delay!