Choose from 646 Fun Things to Do in Australia
ShowingFilter 201-220 of 646 listings.
Hawkesbury River
Along with its main tributary the Nepean River, the Hawkesbury River circles the area where Sydney is located. Visitors to the Hawkesbury Valley can enjoy boating, riverside dining (the oysters are most popular,) and see the last remaining river boat postman, which delivers mail to a few of the smaller riverside towns. Hiking, picnicking, mountain biking, and fishing are available in the natural surrounding area.
The Hawkesbury region is was one of the earliest colonial settlements in Australia. As such there are many historic buildings and Heritage Trails listed with the National Trust. Many travelers also choose to stay on the river in a houseboat, or in one of the small towns. Richmond and Windsor are the most central and well known, but there are various other small settlements to see as well. Or visitors can explore the many farms, orchards, and vineyards of Hawkesbury — 15% of all produce grown in Australia is found here.
Practical Info
Hawkesbury River is situated on the edges of the Wollemi and Blue Mountains National Parks, about an hour’s drive northwest of Sydney.
Address: NSW, Australia, Australia
Hours: Daily 24/7
From $ 108
Hamilton Island
The largest inhabited island in the Whitsundays, Hamilton Island has some of the best beach resorts in the Pacific, right on the cusp of the Great Barrier Reef. Famed for its luxury resorts and water sports, stunning views await at every turn—pristine white sands, lush rain forest, and an endless expanse of glittering ocean.
The Basics
Aside from being a popular vacation spot, Hamilton Island makes a strategic basecamp for exploring Whitsunday Islands or cruising the Great Barrier Reef.
Most visitors opt for half- and full-day cruises from Port Airlie, which include beach time at Hamilton Island and a stop at Whitehaven Beach in neighboring Whitsunday Island. Island tours typically take in highlights, such as Catseye Beach, Passage Peak, Wild Life Hamilton Island park, and One Tree Hill.
Things to Know Before You Go
- No cars are allowed on Hamilton Island, but golf buggies are available to rent and a free shuttle bus runs to locations, including Catseye Beach, Front Street, and Marina Village.
- The island has numerous bars and restaurants, most of which are around Catseye Beach and Hamilton Island Marina.
- Pack sunscreen, a hat, and your swimsuit—most tours include free time at the beach.
- A motorized raft tour means you can explore protected areas in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and reach the best snorkeling spots.
- Some boats and tours are wheelchair accessible. Beach wheelchairs are available to rent from the resorts.
How to Get to There
Hamilton Island—south of Whitsunday Island in the Whitsundays archipelago,—is the only one of the islands with its own airport, Great Barrier Reef Airport. Regular direct flights run from Brisbane, Cairns, Sydney, and Melbourne, and most resorts offer airport shuttles. Alternatively, ferries and boat tours leave from Airlie Beach to Hamilton.
When to Get There
You can visit Hamilton any time of year, but the most popular time is summer (January and February) when it’s advisable to book flights, tours, and accommodation in advance. Average day temperatures are still 73°F (23°C) in winter, making it possible to swim and snorkel year-round. This is also the time to spot migrating whales along the coast.
Outdoor Activities on Hamilton Island
Hamilton’s biggest draw is its beaches, and there are plenty of options for water sports, including paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, and jet-skiing. Alternatively, take a hike to Passage Peak, join an island-hopping cruise, or watch the sunset over the coast at One Tree Hill. There’s also the Hamilton Island Golf Club, a go-kart course, and a kid’s fun zone at Catseye Beach.
Address: Australia
From $ 389
Great Otway National Park
Amid the sweeping coastal vistas and jagged sea cliffs of the Great Ocean Road, the Great Otway National Park serves up some of the most spectacular natural scenery along the famous drive. Stretching over 100,000 hectares along the southwest coast from Torquay to Princetown, the park encompasses a startling variety of scenery, from lush rainforest, waterfalls and lakes, to rocky bays, dramatic headlands and golden sand beaches.
The park makes a popular spot for hiking, mountain biking or horseback riding, with a network of waymarked trails and the 91km Great Ocean Walk running through the heart of the park. It’s also a hotspot for spotting native Australian wildlife, with key destinations including the Cape Otway Lighthouse, a prime spot for watching whales and dolphins along the coast; the Melba Gully, renowned for its glowworms; and the Otway Fly, where adventurous travelers can see the rainforest up close on the world’s longest treetop walk or a thrilling zip-line course.
Practical Info
Great Otway National Park is located on Australia’s south coast, around 200km southwest of Melbourne, along the Great Ocean Road.
Address: Great Otway National Park, Victoria, Australia
From $ 49
Healesville Sanctuary
With more than 74 acres (30 hectares) of natural bushlands and hundreds of animal residents, Healesville Sanctuary is one of the best places in Victoria to spot native Australian animals. Kangaroos, koalas, dingoes, platypus, emus, and Tasmanian devils are just some of the many creatures that call the sanctuary home.
The Basics
Standard entry to Healesville Sanctuary includes access to all the main attractions, including the bushland walks and exhibits, the live shows and zoo keeper talks, and the Australian Wildlife Health Centre, which cares for sick and injured wildlife. Entrance to the sanctuary is free for iVenture card holders.
Many travelers opt to visit as part of a day tour from Melbourne, often in combination with nearby attractions, such as a ride on the Puffing Billy steam train or wine tasting in the Yarra Valley.
Things to Know Before You Go
- On-site facilities include free car parking, picnic areas, and a selection of restaurants, cafés, and gift shops.
- Most of the sanctuary’s exhibits are outdoors and you will likely do a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and clothing, and bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and water.
- Healesville Sanctuary is fully wheelchair accessible, and wheelchair rental is available.
How to Get There
Healesville Sanctuary is located close to the Yarra Valley, an approximately 1.5-hour drive east of central Melbourne. To arrive by public transport, take the train from Melbourne to Lilydale Railway Station, followed by the 686 bus to Badger Creek.
When to Get There
Healesville Sanctuary is open daily, year-round, but the busiest time to visit is during the summer peak season (December–January) or during school holidays. To avoid the crowds, opt for a weekday visit in offseason, or if visiting with your own transport, make an early start and arrive at opening.
Animal Sightings at Healesville Sanctuary
The Kangaroo Country, Koala Forest, Dingo Country, and Platypus Creek exhibits allow visitors to admire native animals in an environment similar to their natural habitats. At the Cool Conservation exhibit, learn about the sanctuary’s breeding programs, including endangered species, such as the mountain pygmy-possum and southern corroboree frog. Animals of the Night exhibition features an indoor area devoted to Australia’s nocturnal creatures. Bird lovers will adore the spectacular Spirits of the Sky bird show.
Address: Australia
Admission: Varies
From $ 27
Great Ocean Road
One of the world’s most famous driving routes, Victoria’s Great Ocean Road offers scenic surprises at every fork in the road. In signature Australian style, endless stretches of white sandy beaches are flanked by dense pockets of rain forest, charming coastal towns, and canopies populated by koalas. Read on to learn how to make the most of your Great Ocean Road tour.
The Basics
The best way to take in this spectacular stretch of highway is by car or coach, with the majority of driving tours departing from Melbourne and including a tour guide, roundtrip transportation, and a visit to the Twelve Apostles. Activities along the way may include wine tastings in Apollo Bay; spotting wild koalas in Kennett River; hiking along the shipwreck coast to witness the natural splendor of the Loch Ard Gorge; or pulling over at sunset to witness the Great Ocean Road at its most majestic. Day trips on the route tend to run upwards of 12 hours due to all of the driving and can be combined with a trip to Phillip Island for the famous penguin parade.
How to Get There
The Great Ocean Road is set 150 miles (240 km) southwest of Melbourne and 100 miles (165 km) from Geelong. It takes about three hours to arrive from Melbourne by road. Buses from these cities service major Great Ocean Road towns such as Torquay, Anglesea, Lorne, and Apollo Bay; however, a car is essential to take a road trip on the full 150-mile (243-km) route.
When to Get There
In December and January, the road’s small coastal towns are especially popular among Australians from New South Wales and South Australia cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide. Crowds can often dampen the tranquil atmosphere of the route; an off-season visit can help you avoid both traffic and the scorching summer sun.
Best Outdoor Experiences Along the Route
The crashing waves of the Southern Ocean are a paradise for surfers, who flock here from Melbourne in the thousands during the summer months. Seaside towns such as Geelong, Lorne, and Torquay (the undisputed capital of Australia’s surfing scene) offer whale watching and maritime history, while the monolithic rock columns of the Twelve Apostles are an iconic site known around the world.
For nature lovers, the rugged coastlines of Port Campbell National Park and the waterfalls and ancient forests of Great Otway National Park offer opportunities to see kangaroos, wallabies, fairy penguins, dolphins, and tiger snakes. Snorkelers and scuba divers can also experience the underwater wonderland of marine life at Twelve Apostles Marine National Park, an excellent place to swim beneath the rocks that rise majestically above corals and kelp forests.
Address: Torquay to Warrnambool, Victoria 3228, Australia
From $ 67
Hartley's Crocodile Adventures
An eco-adventure for all ages, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures gives you the chance to get up close to those smiling crocodiles. It’s an informative and educational day where you will learn about many species native to Australia.
Take a cruise on the lagoon and see the crocodiles in surroundings that mimic their natural habitat, they’ll be lazing in the sun, building nests and swimming in the water alongside you. There is also a commercial crocodile farm where you can find out about the sustainable practices of cultivating crocs.
There are also areas where you a free to explore and discover the native wildlife of the wetlands for yourself; bright birds, tremulous turtles and lounging lizards are all part of the crocodile’s world.
The Gondwana Gateway gives you an insight into the evolution of Australia’s unique wildlife while the Snake Show at 2pm introduces you to some of her less friendly inhabitants. Another highlight is watching the cassowaries feed and finding out about these rainforest birds and how they have evolved throughout the millennia.
Hartley’s is just off the Captain Cook Highway 7mi (10km) north of Palm Cove. Tourist buses make the journey from Cairns and some stop in Palm Cove.
Address: Australia
Hours: Closed Christmas
From $ 29
Gunns Plains Caves
You can thank a possum for introducing humans to Gunns Plains Caves, which were discovered by a local Tasmanian hunter when he chased the possum into a hole and instead emerged in a cave. While we’ll never know if he actually found the shrewd, cave-dwelling possum, what we do know is that in only 12 years it went from being an unknown cave to a popular Tasmania State Reserve, established in 1918. When you first descend down into the cave, the subterranean , water-carved beauty is instantly seen in the calcite shawls and large, shimmering flowstones. The sound of water trickling across limestone can still be heard in the cave, and crayfish, eels, and even platypus still splash in the underground river. During daily tours of Gunns Plains Caves, guides will point out the different formations that have slowly formed over time—from the Wedding Cake and Golden Fleece to others with comical, spot-on names that closely fit their appearance. Learn this history of how these caves were gradually formed over time, and marvel at how this wonderland is so magically different—almost surreal—when compared to life above ground.
Practical Info
When visiting Gunns Plains Caves in Tasmania, be sure to wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring along a warm jacket for the cool cave interior. Visitors should be able to comfortable navigate the 54 concrete steps, and endure standing, walking, and touring throughout the well-lit cave. There are six tours daily that run at 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1:30pm, 2:30pm, and 3:30pm.
Address: Gunns Plains Cave State Reserve, Gunns Plains, Tasmania, Australia TAS 7315, Australia
Hours: Open daily 10am-4pm except Christmas
Admission: Family pass: $40
From $ 122
Green Island
Marooned off the coast of Cairns in north Queensland, Green Island is a tropical paradise of lush rainforest, white sandy beaches, and crystalline waters. The idyllic island is part of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef National Park, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and harbors an extraordinary variety of coral reefs, exotic fish, and marine life.
The Basics
As one of the most easily accessible islands in the Great Barrier Reef, Green Island is a popular choice for day-trippers from nearby Cairns. The Green Island resort offers everything you need to explore the island’s underwater wonders, whether you fly in by seaplane or sail out across the reef. As well as swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, and seawalker helmet tours, there are island reef cruises, glass-bottom boat tours, and semi-submarine excursions, the latter of which offer the chance to peek under the ocean without having to dive in.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Temperatures can reach upwards of 86°F (30°C) in summer, so pack sunscreen and a hat, as well as a swimsuit and towel.
- Follow the rules to avoid damaging the coral or disturbing The Great Barrier Reef, a protected conservation area.
- Facilities at the Green Island Resort include showers, changing rooms, lockers, a bar and restaurant, and free WiFi.
- The Green Island Resort has wheelchair access, but not all activities are fully accessible to those with limited mobility.
How to Get There
Located around 16.5 miles (27 kilometers) from the mainland, the coral cay of Green Island is only accessible by boat or air. Most visitors travel to Green Island from Cairns, about a 45-minute cruise by schooner, catamaran, or charter boat. The quickest way to arrive on the island is by helicopter or seaplane, while passenger ferries set sail from the Reef Fleet Terminal in Cairns.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit the Green Island National Park is during the dry season (April to September), when the weather is cooler and less humid, while in wet season (October to March) visitors can expect temperatures to average 86°F (30°C). It’s possible to visit year-round, but note that the island is occasionally inaccessible due to high winds or cyclonic activity.
The Underwater World of Green Island
Green Island’s platform reef offers more than 1,854 acres (710 hectares) of coral reef to explore. Its rainbow of corals include staghorn, plate, boulder, and mushroom corals. Look out for green and hawksbill sea turtles, dugong, giant clams, and sea urchins, as well as a spectacular variety of exotic fish, crabs, and starfish.
Address: Green Island National Park, Green Island 4871, Australia
From $ 65
Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary
A pocket of wilderness located at the western end of Kangaroo Island, the Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best places on the island to view native Australian wildlife in its natural habitat. The 247-acre (100-hectare) reserve stretches along the coast and offers ample opportunities for bushwalking, as well as beachside cabins to rent, a visitor center, and cafe.
Visitors can enjoy guided or self-guided walks, the most popular of which is the Koala Walk, a leisurely trail through the Eucalyptus forests, where it’s possible to spot wild koalas and enjoy a rare opportunity to admire the adorable creatures from afar in their natural environment. Guided nocturnal walks are also available and common sightings include kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, possums, and bats.
Practical Info:
Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary is located at the western end of Kangaroo Island, around a 2-hour drive from Kingscote, and close to attractions such as Admirals Arch, Cape Borda Lighthouse, and the Kelly Hills Conservation Park. Adult admission to the sanctuary and Koala Walk is $9 and youth admission is $5. Guided nocturnal tours are available for $30. Accommodation is also available in beachfront cabins.
Please note that wild animal sightings cannot be guaranteed and visitors are not permitted to touch, feed, or interact with the animals.
Address: South Coast Rd, Karatta, SA 5223, Australia
Hours: 8am–6pm daily
Admission: Adult: $9; Child: $5
From $ 219
Henty Sand Dunes
Rising from the coastline of western Tasmania like soft, shapeshifting mountains, the Henty sand dunes are natural wonders on the outskirts of the town of Strahan. Trek to the top of these wind-sculpted pinnacles for sweeping views of the shoreline, and then feel the rush of wind in your face as you race down the dunes on a sandboard. Tall, dusty and with a soft cushion for landing, the largest dunes can create heart-pumping runs as you slide your way toward the shoreline.
Or, to really explore the depths of the dunes as they stretch inland toward the interior, rev the engine of a 4WD quad bike and bounce away from the coast. Along the way you can drink in the views of Tasmania’s largest dune structure, and given the otherwise lush surroundings of the rainforest-laden west coast, you’ll see that the desert-like pinnacles are beautifully out of place. At the end of the day, stick around to watch the sun go down beneath the distant western horizon, and enjoy the isolated, elevated perch from the top of your very own dune.
Practical Info
The Henty sand dunes are seven miles from Strahan, a popular destination on the west coast of Tasmania located 185 miles from Hobart. West coast winters can be rainy and brisk, so the best time to visit the Henty sand dunes is during the summer and fall. There is no admission charge to visit the dunes should you decide to see them on your own. Sandboarding tours and quad bike tours depart from the center of Strahan.
Address: Zeehan Road, Strahan, Tasmania, Australia
From $ 323
Hastings Street
Hastings Street—the popular, posh and impossibly pretty Noosa Heads promenade—is one of Queensland’s best known spots. The coastal boulevard and its open air cafes, trendy boutiques, and high-end shopping attracts traveling celebrities and luxury-seekers to the sun-soaked sidewalks of this once strictly local surf spot. Visitors to Noosa and the Sunshine Coast can pop into Hastings' many restaurants and pubs for a night out on the town or visit the area as part of a day trip from Brisbane, exploring the street and neighboring beach towns.
Insiders Tip: Visit in Spring to escape the crowds and avoid waiting for a table.
Practical Info
Hastings Street is within walking distance from Noosa Heads' Main Beach. Parking is difficult during peak hours, which makes the area challenging to visit independently if you aren’t staying in town.
Address: Australia
From $ 81
Great Sandy National Park
The Great Sandy National Park is a coastal national park and encompasses both part of mainland Queensland and Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island.
On the mainland. the river stretches from Rainbow Beach to Noosa Heads, its eastern border one long unbroken tropical beach paradise. Noosa Heads in the south is a popular holiday destination for Australians and hotels get busy during the peak season. Inland if you’re looking for a more nature-based holiday the Cooloola Wilderness Trail has opportunities for real bush camping at the Neebs and Wandi waterholes.
The Fraser Island section is separated from the mainland by a shallow sand reef which can be crossed by barge. The island has an incredible stretch of white beach running unbroken down its eastern coast while the interior is home to unlikely rainforests, sublime freshwater lakes and remarkable dunes.
On the mainland. the river stretches from Rainbow Beach to Noosa Heads, its eastern border one long unbroken tropical beach paradise. Noosa Heads in the south is a popular holiday destination for Australians and hotels get busy during the peak season. Inland if you’re looking for a more nature-based holiday the Cooloola Wilderness Trail has opportunities for real bush camping at the Neebs and Wandi waterholes.
The Fraser Island section is separated from the mainland by a shallow sand reef which can be crossed by barge. The island has an incredible stretch of white beach running unbroken down its eastern coast while the interior is home to unlikely rainforests, sublime freshwater lakes and remarkable dunes.
Practical Info
The Great Sandy National Park has plenty of buses running up and down the coast; there are a number of bus providers. To get to Fraser Island you will need to either catch an airplane or take a barge from Inskip heads, River Point or Hervey Bay. Travel on the island will require you to hire a 4WD or book with a tour.
Address: Great Sandy National Park, QLD, Australia
From $ 131
High Court of Australia
Anyone standing in the Parliamentary Triangle will notice the High Court of Australia. A towering building of concrete and glass that rises 130 feet, the court is an award-winning piece of architecture on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. The glass is meant to symbolize transparency in Australia’s judicial process, and visitors are welcome to sit on proceedings whenever court is in session. Many of Australia’s most notable cases have been conducted here in this building, and the laws that govern the entire nation are handed down from these halls.
Three different courtrooms and a public hall are accessible to courthouse visitors, and even during times when court isn’t in session, the public hall can host cultural events or even afternoon concerts. Informative placards highlight events that have shaped the court system’s past, and with the exception of marble that has been imported from Italy, all of the timber and beams in the courthouse are made from Australian wood. Part functioning legal facility and part design attraction, the High Court of Australia is a noble stop when visiting downtown Canberra.
Practical Info
The High Court of Australia is open for visits on Monday-Friday, 9:45am-4:30pm, and admission is free. Court is usually in session for two weeks out of every month, with the exception of January and July when the court is in recess. For visitors who do end up sitting in court, it’s customary to bow upon entrance and exit and to sit for a minimum of 10 minutes.
Address: Parkes Pl, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia
Hours: Mon-Fri 9:45am-4:30pm
From $ 140
Haigh's Chocolates
When most people think of chocolate they think European. Belgium, Switzerland—these are nations known for creating smooth and creamy pure cocoa treats. But Aussies know some of the most decadent chocolate pleasures are made at their very own Haigh’s Chocolates. Since 1915 this fourth generation, family owned company has been churning out candies that are worth the trip. From classic dark chocolates to new salted caramels, travelers can find a taste of Australia at one of the company’s 14 retail stores across the country—including six in Adelaide.
Practical Info:
Free 20-minute guided tours, including coffee and free samples, happen Monday through Friday at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. at 154 Greenhill Road, Parkside, SA 5063. Reservations are recommended, particularly for the Saturday tours at 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. The factory is a five minute drive from the city’s center, or accessible by calling Adelaide Metro (1300 311 108).
Address: 154 Greenhill Road, Parkside, SA 5063, Australia
From $ 50
Herberton Historical Village
What do you imagine it would be like to live in Queensland in the 1880s, when pioneering settlers were pushing farther north and establishing towns along the way? Would life be difficult here in the hills, where meat had to be butchered, clothes had to be sewn, and boots were all made by hand, or would you welcome a simpler time that was free of our fast, modern day stress? These are questions you can ask for yourself at Herberton Historical Village, a phenomenally preserved example of life in 19th century Queensland. Wander the dusty village streets past 50 different buildings that date to the town’s original founding, when tin was suddenly discovered in these hills and miners flocked in droves. For over 90 years the town of Herberton boomed as a tin mining town, and at one point even had 17 pubs where the miners could drink and get loose. Today tourism drives the town, the most popular sight being the historical village where you can stroll past the chemist’s shop, peruse the frock shop, or admire the carriages and old time cars inside the wooden garage. Grab a scone at the Bakersville tea rooms or a pint at the Tin Pannikin Pub, and experience firsthand was life was like out here on the Queensland frontier. At an elevation of 3,000 feet in the rolling Atherton Tablelands, Herberton is Queensland’s highest town—and also one of its coldest—and the site of the best Australiana found anywhere in the country.
Practical Info
Guided tours are available from Cairns, or visitors with their own transport can visit independently. Plan to spend at least 3 hours exploring the entire village.
Address: 6 Broadway Street, Herberton, Queensland, Australia QLD 4887, Australia
Hours: Open daily 9am-5pm in high season, 9am-4pm in low season
Admission: Adults: $28; Children: $12
From $ 166
Hahndorf
As Australia’s oldest German settlement, Hahndorf is a unique tourist destination.
Hahndorf is nestled in the Adelaide Hills just 20 minutes’ drive from the Adelaide City CBD. German influences are the key to Hahndorf’s charm – architecture, stores, bakeries, restaurants and wineries all owe their style to the German heritage of the town.
The first residents of Hahndorf arrived in Adelaide in 1838 – the name of the town coming from the captain of the ship on which they arrived. When war broke out in 1914, the South Australian Government at the time decided to change the very German name of the town. Hahndorf became Ambleside until the late 1930s, when the name was reverted to its original German.
For visitors, Hahndorf offers the experience of Europe just outside an Australian metropolis. Day-trippers can indulge in tours of the local wineries which produce some of the world’s finest cold weather wines, eat at gourmet restaurants that use local produce to recreate German cuisine, or spend the day berry picking at Beerenberg.
Art and boutique shops add to Hahndorf’s charm. The Cedars is the former home of renowned landscape artist Hans Heysen, and open to the public – displaying a range of his paintings, his studio, and some of his simpler sketches. The Hahndorf Academy showcases more contemporary art by local artists.
German bakeries and boutique cellar doors are perfect for lunch and an afternoon drink, and the two local pubs or one of the many restaurants offer a variety of cuisines if you’re in town for dinner.
Hahndorf is nestled in the Adelaide Hills just 20 minutes’ drive from the Adelaide City CBD. German influences are the key to Hahndorf’s charm – architecture, stores, bakeries, restaurants and wineries all owe their style to the German heritage of the town.
The first residents of Hahndorf arrived in Adelaide in 1838 – the name of the town coming from the captain of the ship on which they arrived. When war broke out in 1914, the South Australian Government at the time decided to change the very German name of the town. Hahndorf became Ambleside until the late 1930s, when the name was reverted to its original German.
For visitors, Hahndorf offers the experience of Europe just outside an Australian metropolis. Day-trippers can indulge in tours of the local wineries which produce some of the world’s finest cold weather wines, eat at gourmet restaurants that use local produce to recreate German cuisine, or spend the day berry picking at Beerenberg.
Art and boutique shops add to Hahndorf’s charm. The Cedars is the former home of renowned landscape artist Hans Heysen, and open to the public – displaying a range of his paintings, his studio, and some of his simpler sketches. The Hahndorf Academy showcases more contemporary art by local artists.
German bakeries and boutique cellar doors are perfect for lunch and an afternoon drink, and the two local pubs or one of the many restaurants offer a variety of cuisines if you’re in town for dinner.
Practical Info
Hahndorf is 26km south east of the Adelaide CBD, and takes about 20
minutes by car. Buses run from the Adelaide CBD on the Southlink line on
a fairly regular basis but check the timetable before you go. Tours are
also a common way to see both Hahndorf and the surrounding area.
Address: Hahndorf, SA, Australia
From $ 53
Heart Reef
Just offshore from the 74 islands that make up the Whitsundays lay sections of the world's largest barrier reef. The portion of the Great Barrier Reef called Hardy Reef is perhaps the most popular spot for tourists thanks to the postcard-ready Heart Reef, which is, as you may have guessed, the shape of a heart.
Surrounded by perfect blue waters, not only has Heart Reef been formed into a perfect Valentine's shape, but it's even a romantic pink color. The incredible collection of coral was first discovered by an Air Whitsunday pilot and has since become one of the top sights for people doing flightseeing tours over the reefs. Moreover, it has become a popular, if not cliché, destination for both honeymoons and proposals. The grandeur of Heart Reef is only truly visible from the air, of course. At an area of nearly 30 meters wide and 30 more tall, at water level it simply looks like any other reef in the Whitsunday area.
Practical Info
To see Heart Reef you'll need to take to the air. Flightseeing tours are organized from Airlie Beach and will take you over a number of reefs and islands, plus Heart Reef.
Address: Heart Reef, Airlie Beach, Queensland, Australia
From $ 170
Harbour Town
Everyone wants a gift from vacation, and the Harbour Town Outlets are a practical place for finding a really good deal. Here on the city’s bustling Docklands just outside of West Melbourne, visitors might find that special gift at one of the 90 outlets. Start the adventure with coffee or tea from one of the cafés on site, and peruse the sprawling retail maze in search of the perfect fit. If visiting Melbourne from overseas, swing by the center’s Tourism Lounge for a second round of deals, since tourists often receive bonus discounts not available to other shoppers. Additional features include a Ferris wheel and occasional outdoor ice rink, and Harbour Town can be a family outing—not just another shop.
Practical Info
Harbour Town is open from 10am-6pm on Saturdays through Thursdays. Fridays are open until 9pm, and many stores close at 5pm on Sundays. To visit, either take the train to Southern Cross Station and walk to the Harbour Town Esplanade, or ride tram number 86 until it reaches its final stop. If traveling by car, parking begins at $3 and is $10 for the day.
Address: 1/122 Studio Ln, Docklands VIC, Australia
From $ 27
Hill Inlet
Often described as one of the best views in all of Australia, Hill Inlet is a must-visit in the Whitsunday Islands area. Its a feature of countless tours throughout the region and sits on the large Whitsunday Island at Whitehaven Beach.
If you travel along Whitehaven Beach to the north, you'll run into Hill Inlet. Try to be there when the tides are retreating, as this is when you'll have the luxury of watching perfect white sands appear in a twist among the clear blue waters. From the air, it almost looks unnatural, like a water-color painting or a colorful piece of sand art.
Most people arrive by boat and take a dingy ashore. To truly appreciate the view, however, you'll want to make your way to the most popular lookout point over Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet, a spot called Tongue Point. It's here that the magnitude of the beach and inlet are best experienced.
Practical Info
Most visitors come to Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday cruises or via a powerboat. However, if you're in a self-sufficient boat, you can anchor just off the beach as well. Another great way to see the amazing beach and inlet is via flightseeing or helicopter tour.
Address: Whitsunday Island National Park, Airlie Beach, Queensland, Australia
From $ 97
Hervey Bay
Referred to as the “Whale Watching Capital of the World,” Hervey Bay is blessed with tranquil beaches and a mild sub-tropical climate that make it a delight to visit year round.
It’s a relaxed and charming city that is popular with tourists who come to whale watch, swim, fish and explore the surrounding countryside including catching the ferry to Fraser Island.
There are plenty of activities for the whole family in Hervey Bay especially on those calm blue waters that are perfect for sailing, jet skiing, fishing and diving. There are plenty of activities inland as well such as golf, horse riding and sky diving. During the winter months from August to October there are the whales who use Hervey Bay as their winter playground.
It’s a relaxed and charming city that is popular with tourists who come to whale watch, swim, fish and explore the surrounding countryside including catching the ferry to Fraser Island.
There are plenty of activities for the whole family in Hervey Bay especially on those calm blue waters that are perfect for sailing, jet skiing, fishing and diving. There are plenty of activities inland as well such as golf, horse riding and sky diving. During the winter months from August to October there are the whales who use Hervey Bay as their winter playground.
Practical Info
Hervey Bay is 3.5 hours drive from Brisbane or under 1 hour by airplane. Plenty of bus companies pass through Hervey Bay and there is also a high-speed tilt train from Maryborough. If you're traveling to Fraser Island, you can catch the ferry or book a tour from here.
Address: Hervey Bay, QLD, Australia
From $ 131