Choose from 646 Fun Things to Do in Australia
ShowingFilter 301-320 of 646 listings.
Mount Field National Park
Tasmania is known for its stunning scenery and wealth of natural beauty, and of the island’s 19 national parks, Mount Field National Park is the oldest of them all. Established in 1916, this area set an hour from Hobart offers tumbling waterfalls, backcountry hiking trails and diverse wildlife that includes the awkward-looking platypus and the famous Tasmanian devil. Of all the sights within the park, Russell Falls is one of the most popular thanks to its ease of access. A 20-minute, paved walk leads to the thundering three-tiered waterfall, and adjoining hiking tracks lead through gum forests and brilliantly green patches of ferns.
During the months of April and June, the upper slopes of the Mount Field National Park are ablaze in the colors of fall. Deep reds and bright oranges blanket the thinning treetops, and there is enough snowfall from July until September to sustain a popular ski lodge. Lake Dobson is another park favorite, located toward the upper reaches of the park, and the hiking trails that fan out from its parking lot take six to eight hours to cover. From the sweeping viewpoints of these glacially carved valleys that look out over the forests, it’s easy to see why Mount Field National Park is one of Tasmania’s most popular attractions.
Practical Info
Mount Field National Park is located 40 miles from Hobart, about an hour’s drive outside the city. There is a daily park fee of either $12 per person or $24 per vehicle, and multi-day visitors can purchase holiday passes for $30 each person or $80 each vehicle. While rain and snow can fall during any month of the year, the summer months of December through March offer the driest and warmest conditions.
Address: Lake Dobson Road, Maydena, Tasmania, Australia
Admission: Daily park fee of either $12 per person or $24 per vehicle.
From $ 96
Mt Lofty
The highest point in the aptly named Mt Lofty Ranges, Mt Lofty is a luxurious place to get sweeping views of Adelaide and out onto the Indian Ocean.
The views aren’t all there is to Mt Lofty. A comprehensive visitors centre, shop, and fully licensed café are situated on the mountain’s summit, giving visitors information on the area, a place to shop for souvenirs and a beautiful place to eat lunch.
Mt Lofty isn’t just about views – even if you can see all the way out to Kangaroo Island on a clear day. Though only a short drive from the CBD, the area around Mt Lofty is covered by bushland. Mt Lofty is surrounded by the Cleland Conservation Park on one side, and hosts its own botanic garden in which visitors can see a host of native Australian plants and the wide variety of birdlife that is drawn to them.
Getting off the summit, hiking and mountain biking are popular ways to take advantage of the mountain’s relative wilderness. The 8km Waterfall Gully loop is one of the most popular walks – though with a fair amount of ups and downs it’s not for the faint-hearted. A loop of the 1,200km Heysen Track takes hikers from the base of the mountain to the summit over a much more manageable 8km. Downhill biking is a much less strenuous way to enjoy the mountain and cycle all the way back into the city centre.
The views aren’t all there is to Mt Lofty. A comprehensive visitors centre, shop, and fully licensed café are situated on the mountain’s summit, giving visitors information on the area, a place to shop for souvenirs and a beautiful place to eat lunch.
Mt Lofty isn’t just about views – even if you can see all the way out to Kangaroo Island on a clear day. Though only a short drive from the CBD, the area around Mt Lofty is covered by bushland. Mt Lofty is surrounded by the Cleland Conservation Park on one side, and hosts its own botanic garden in which visitors can see a host of native Australian plants and the wide variety of birdlife that is drawn to them.
Getting off the summit, hiking and mountain biking are popular ways to take advantage of the mountain’s relative wilderness. The 8km Waterfall Gully loop is one of the most popular walks – though with a fair amount of ups and downs it’s not for the faint-hearted. A loop of the 1,200km Heysen Track takes hikers from the base of the mountain to the summit over a much more manageable 8km. Downhill biking is a much less strenuous way to enjoy the mountain and cycle all the way back into the city centre.
Practical Info
Mt Lofty is located south east of Adelaide. About a 20 minute drive,
head out of the city and head to the M1. The A1, A3 and A17 all converge
on the M1, which you’ll follow until turning right at Mount Lofty
Summit Road. Coach tours also take visitors to the top. The Summit Café
and Visitors Centre are open 9-5 on weekdays and a little earlier on
weekends. The restaurant opens 6pm til late.
Address: Mt Lofty, SA, Australia
From $ 22
Mt Coot-tha
Brisbane’s all-natural lookout point and city escape is Mt Coot-tha, hovering above the city to its west. The views from the lookout are legendary, taking in Brisbane and the undulating Brisbane River, all the way to Moreton Bay and the Glass House Mountains on the horizon. At the foot of the mountain, the lush Brisbane Botanic Gardens provide a vivid touch of green.
The lookout is surrounded by expansive native bush and parkland. Brisbanites flock here on family picnics, or to follow walking tracks to waterfalls and more lookouts. An Aboriginal Art Trail winds past ancient sites, and weekend cyclists come here to follow the winding roads.
Come here at night to see the city lights twinkle, for a relaxed lunch at the cafe or more formal dinner at the Summit Restaurant.
Address: Australia
From $ 74
Michaelmas Cay
Calm waters, crystal clear visibility and tons of tropical fish make Michaelmas Cay one of the best scuba and snorkeling destinations outside of Cairns. Underwater enthusiasts love the colorful coral found far below the ocean’s surface and the lively birds that fly high overhead. Time spent on a boat isn’t so bad either.
Leopard sharks, sting rays and sea turtles swim among the coral reefs, and since the sandy lagoon is protected from the elements, snorkeling conditions are ideal regardless of the weather nearby.
Practical Info
The Cay is 21 miles east of Cairns on Michaelmas Reef. The island is known for its green turtles, giant clams and incredible underwater wildlife. Because only a handful of water access permits have been granted to companies that host travelers, booking a tour is essential.
Address: Cairns, Australia
From $ 134
Monkey Mia
While some things in nature are easily explained, others remain a mystery. One of those mysteries is at Monkey Mia on Australia's western coast, where wild dolphins pay regular visits to the shoreline to greet humans. The ritual has taken place almost daily for over 50 years, with a handful of dolphins cruising by the shore up to three times per day, making Monkey Mia one of the world's most reliable places for spotting dolphins in the wild. The site is also a research center for dolphin psychology and behavior.
Although the dolphin appearances are unpredictable, rangers lead guided feedings during which select visitors are chosen to offer fish to the bottlenose dolphins under supervision (the amount of food provided to the dolphins is strictly regulated so as not to interfere with their diet). Thanks to ranger supervision, this is the only place in the Shark Bay region where visitors are legally allowed to be within 100 feet of a dolphin, making it easy to make out their sleek outline as they swim through the knee-high, crystalline waters. Dolphins may approach visitors, but guests should note that the animals are wild and should not touch them.
Practical Info
Monkey Mia 527 miles (850 km), or a nine-hour drive, north of Perth in the UNESCO-listed Shark Bay area. The nearest town is Denham, a 30-minute drive away. Monkey Mia day permits cost $12 for adults and $4.50 for children between the ages of 6 and 15.
Address: 1 Monkey Mia Road, Denham, Western Australia 6537, Australia
Hours: Open daily. To see the dolphins it's recommended you get to the beach by 7:30am
Admission: Adults $12, children (6–15) $4.50
From $ 463
Melbourne Town Hall
Concerts, theater, weddings, and more grace Melbourne Town Hall, which has welcomed everyone from Queen Elizabeth II to The Beatles. Completed in 1870, this grand neoclassical building is at the heart of Melbourne’s city and cultural life. Although a working town hall, it opens to the public for prebooked tours several days a week.
The Basics
To enter Melbourne Town Hall, you must book a tour in advance. Melbourne Town Hall tours are free and run twice a day several days a week, but numbers are limited, so most visitors opt to experience the town hall simply by admiring its architecturally impressive exterior. This is easy to do on a guided or self-guided Melbourne walking tour, and a number of city tours pass by Melbourne Town Hall.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Photographers will want to visit Melbourne Town Hall either early in the morning, for the best light with minimal crowding, or late at night early in the week, to capture the illuminations.
- If you’d like to see the interior but don’t want to book a tour, consider visiting for a concert, which allows access to the grand auditorium.
- Melbourne Town Hall is wheelchair accessible.
- The impressive portico was added to the building in 1887.
How to Get There
Melbourne Town Hall stands proud on Swanston Street, north of the Yarra River at the heart of the city, and about 950 feet (300 meters) from Flinders Street station. It is most easily reached by public transport or walking from other attractions. Downtown Melbourne is not car-friendly, and parking in the city center is difficult and expensive.
When to Get There
The grand building and portico look their best illuminated at night and often host colorful projections over the Christmas season. If you’d like to access the interior, Melbourne Town Hall tours run a couple of times a day during the week, with the exception of Tuesdays, but must be booked at least 24 hours in advance.
The Melbourne Town Hall Grand Organ
Melbourne Town Hall’s original Grand Organ opened in 1872 but was destroyed by a fire in 1925. Today’s Melbourne Town Hall Grand Organ dates back to 1929 and uses 90,000 cubic feet (2,549 cubic meters) of air every minute to produce its impressive sound. The town hall hosts occasional free organ concerts, which are a great way to see the auditorium.
Address: 90/120 Swanston Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
From $ 41
Mossman Gorge
Marking the southern border of Daintree National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Mossman Gorge is one of the most popular places to experience the world’s oldest rain forest. Dating back more than 130 million years, the dense forest and scenic river gorge harbor a rich biodiversity and provide a stunning backdrop for hikers and swimmers.
The Basics
Guided or self-guided hikes set out from the Mossman Gorge Visitor Centre, and the marked trails offer a series of walks ranging from 10 to 45 minutes. Highlights include the elevated boardwalks of Baral Marrjanga, the Rex Creek suspension bridge, and the chance to swim at natural swimming holes along the Mossman River.
Most tours to the Mossman Gorge run from Cairns or Port Douglas, and a full-day tour typically includes other activities such as a cruise along the Daintree River or a visit to Cape Tribulation. A popular choice is a Dreamtime walk led by an indigenous guide, which offers fascinating insight into the region’s cultural heritage and Kuku Yalanji people.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Temperatures can reach over 86°F (30°C) in the summer months, so be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as well as insect repellent, comfortable shoes, and your swimsuit.
- The Mossman Gorge is a UNESCO conservation area, so stick to the boardwalks and follow the rules to avoid disturbing the natural environment.
- The Mossman Gorge Visitor Centre has restrooms, a shop, a café-restaurant, car parking, and shuttle buses.
- Fast currents and flash floods are common along the Mossman Gorge, and swimming is recommended only for strong swimmers under the supervision of a guide.
- The Mossman Gorge Centre and the Baral Marrjanga rain forest boardwalk are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Mossman Gorge is located in the southern stretch of Daintree National Park, 15.5 miles (25 kilometers) west of Port Douglas. The closest town is Mossman, 3 miles (5 kilometers) away. Daily coach transfers run between Port Douglas and the Mossman Gorge Centre, from which shuttle buses run into the park.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit the Mossman Gorge is during the dry season (April to October), when the weather is cooler and less humid, but it’s best to make an early start to avoid the crowds. Visiting in the wet season (November to March) can be even more interesting for wildlife lovers, with plants and flowers in full bloom. However, swimming in the river is most dangerous at this time of year.
Wildlife-Spotting in the Mossman Gorge
The Mossman Gorge and the surrounding Daintree Rainforest are home to over a third of Australia’s mammals, more than 430 bird species, and many rare and endemic species, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Sought-after sightings include ringtail possums, tree kangaroos, Boyd Forest Dragon, and spotted-tail quolls, as well as platypus, echidna, and swamp wallaby. Bird sightings might include brush cuckoo, cassowary, dusky honeyeater, and common noddy. The plant life is equally impressive, with strangler figs, fan palms, and maple silkwood, as well as rare species such as white hazelwood shrub and backscratcher ginger.
Address: Johnston Road, Mossman 4873, Australia
Admission: Free
From $ 112
Migration Museum
Telling the stories of the migrants who came from all over the world to make South Australia their home, the Migration Museum provides fascinating insight into Adelaide’s rich history and cultural heritage. With respect for the indigenous people of this region, the museum also illustrates the impact of immigration on native Australians.
The Basics
Explore the Migration Museum on a self-guided tour, or join one of the guided tours or city walking tours that visit the museum. Highlights include exhibitions on “Leaving Britain and Establishing South Australia,” “Immigration in the 20th century,” and “21st Century Migration,” as well as a display devoted to “Pre-European Australia” and the effects that immigration has had on indigenous people.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entrance to the museum is free, but there is sometimes a charge for special events and temporary exhibitions.
- The museum is suitable for all ages, and children will enjoy the “Discovery Drawers” found throughout the exhibits.
- The museum is fully accessible to wheelchair users, and wheelchairs are available to rent.
How to Get There
The Migration Museum is located on Kintore Avenue in downtown Adelaide, just behind the State Library. It’s a short walk to the museum from the main shopping boulevard of Rundle Mall, and buses 241, 248, and 99C stop right outside the museum.
When to Get There
The museum is open daily, year-round. The quietest time to visit is on a weekday morning. Guided museum tours are offered on weekends only.
History of the Migration Museum
The museum is housed in buildings that once belonged to Adelaide’s Destitute Asylum, which provided government welfare to children and expectant mothers from 1878 until the early 20th century. The exhibition “In this Place” tells the story of the former inhabitants, including 1,678 babies who were born in its rooms.
Address: 82 Kintore Avenue, Adelaide 5000, Australia
Admission: Free
From $ 22
Mt Ainslie
The city of Canberra was master-planned by an American designer from Chicago, but you will never recognize the genius of his plan until you see it from the top of Mt. Ainslie. From the lookout point of this 2,700 ft. hill that rises to the north of Canberra, you can finally understand the geometric formations that comprise the modern city. The lakes, hills, avenues, and buildings all seem neatly cradled in the valley’s amphitheater and the view towards the west during sunset hours is the best in all of Canberra.
To reach the famously breathtaking lookout, choose from one of the numerous walking tracks that ascend the side of the mountain. One trail—the Kokoda Track—departs from the back of the Australian War Memorial and has placards that honor Australian soldiers who fought in World War II. Other trails, such as the Mount Ainslie Walking Trail, weave their way from the base of the mountain up towards the summit lookout, and keep your eyes peeled for small kangaroos as they rustle about in the bush. If, on the other hand, you would prefer to simply see the view without working up a sweat, a road leading to the summit lookout is the easiest way to the top.
Practical Info
There is no admission fee to enter Mt. Ainslie and it’s open all year round. The most popular track is the Kokoda Track, and the trail to the top is 2.5 miles and 90 minutes roundtrip.
Address: Mt Ainslie Dr, Majura ACT 2609, Australia
Hours: Daily 24/7
From $ 140
Mrs. Macquarie's Chair
This unique landmark—a massive rock fashioned into a cozy bench—was carved from sandstone in the early 1800s by Gov. Lachlan Macquarie for his wife Elizabeth. As the story goes, when the weather was warm and the sun high, Mrs. Macquarie loved to relax at the point of this scenic peninsula and stare out over the ocean.
Today, travelers enjoy a leisurely walk to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair from the iconic Opera House or wander over to this historic attraction after a visit to the nearby Royal Botanic Garden. In a bustling city that’s alive with energy, the stone bench offers visitors a perfect place to unwind, relax and take in the some of the best views of Sydney Harbour.
Practical Info
Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair is located on a quiet peninsula near the Royal Botanic Garden on Mrs. Macquaries Road by Farm Cove. It is open daily from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Travelers can explore the site on the two-hour self-guided Domain Walk, which visits other public outdoor attractions as well.
Address: The Royal Botanic Garden/Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney, New South Wales 2000, Australia
Hours: Daily 10am-4pm
From $ 41
Mooloolaba
Surrounded by golden beaches, scenic waterways, and mountainous hinterlands, Mooloolaba enjoys a stunning setting along Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. Perched at the mouth of Mooloolaba River, the town has a reputation as one of the coolest on the Sunny Coast, known for its great surf, lively markets, and buzzing nightlife.
The Basics
If you want to hit the beach by day, dine on seafood at sunset, then party all night, Mooloolaba is the place to come. It’s just over an hour from Brisbane, so it makes an easy day trip. Highlights include a canal cruise, browsing the shops along the Esplanade, or a seaplane flight over Mooloolaba and Maroochydore. Mooloolaba Beach is a great spot to swim, learn to surf or scuba dive, or enjoy activities such as jet skiing, kayaking, and skydiving.
Things to Know Before You Go
- All of Mooloolaba’s sights can be reached on foot.
- The Australian sun is strong and it’s worth bringing a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses even if you’re visiting outside of the summer season.
- As with all Australian beaches, only swim at patrolled beaches in the designated areas (between the red and yellow flags).
How to Get There
Mooloolaba is located 61 miles (98 kilometers) north of Brisbane or just over an hour’s drive along the Bruce Highway. Buses run from Brisbane to Mooloolaba via Landsborough and also between Mooloolaba and Sunshine Coast towns such as Noosa Heads and Caloundra.
When to Get There
The busiest time to visit Mooloolaba is during the summer months (December–January), when it’s best to book accommodation and tours in advance. With year-round sunshine, it’s still possible to enjoy outdoor activities in the cooler months, and temperatures rarely fall below 50°F (10°C) even in the middle of winter.
Highlights of the Sunshine Coast
Mooloolaba is ideally situated for exploring the rest of the Sunshine Coast. Perhaps head north to Noosa Heads, visit the renowned Eumundi Markets, or explore the magnificent landscapes of Glass House Mountains National Park. Fun family activities include a visit to the famous Australia Zoo, run by the Irwin family; the Ginger Factory theme park; Mooloolaba’s Sea Life Underwater World, one of Australia’s top aquariums; and the Aussie World amusement park.
Address: Mooloolaba, Australia
From $ 110
Melbourne Star Observation Wheel
One of only four giant observation wheels in the world, along with the London Eye, the Singapore Flyer and the Las Vegas High Roller, the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel has some big names to live up to, but with its 360-degree panoramic views reaching as far as the distant Mount Macedon and Dandenong mountain range, there’s no other attraction like it in the city of Melbourne.
Riding in one of the 21 air-conditioned capsules is an experience in itself, reaching heights of up to 400 feet (120 meters or the equivalent of 40 stories) during the 30-minute tour and offering an unbeatable bird’s eye view of the surrounding Docklands and Port Phillip Bay from the floor-to-ceiling glass windows. The most atmospheric time to ride the Melbourne Star is during the evening hours, when the wheel’s specially engineered multi-colored LED-lighting creates a dazzling lightshow over the waterfront.
Practical Info
The Melbourne Star Observation Wheel is located along the waterfront of Melbourne's Docklands and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with last admission at 9:30 p.m. (from 1 p.m. on Christmas Day and Anzac Day). Adult admission costs AU$32.
Address: 101 Waterfront Way, Docklands, Melbourne VIC 3008, Australia
Hours: Daily 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Admission: AU$32
From $ 27
Mornington Peninsula
From the olive groves and vine-covered hills of the hinterlands to the gold-sand beaches along the coast of Port Phillip bay, the Mornington Peninsula is Melbourne’s natural playground. Less than two hours from the city, it offers wine tasting, hiking, wildlife reserves, and spectacular ocean views.
The Basics
Most visitors opt to explore on a day tour from Melbourne or take in the views en route to Phillip Island. A full-day Mornington Peninsula tour gives you plenty of time to take in the highlights, such as the view from Arthurs Seat, Point Nepean and Mornington national parks, and the beach town of Sorrento. Food and wine tours are also popular, and Main Ridge, Merricks, and Red Hill are the top wine-tasting destinations, famous for their pinot noir and shiraz.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Temperatures can reach 77°F (25°C) during the summer months (December–February), so sun protection is a must.
- If hiking or picnicking during the summer months, be aware of the bushfire risk and adhere to the fire ban and other recommended precautions.
- There is no public transport to the hinterland areas, so you will need your own car or to visit as part of a tour.
- Be sure to book tours, hotels, and activities in advance during the summer months, as they can book up quickly.
How to Get There
The Mornington Peninsula is located along the south coast of Victoria around an hour’s drive from Melbourne. The easiest way to get around is with your own transport or by joining a guided tour, but train and bus service runs from Melbourne to coastal towns including Frankston, Mornington, and Portsea.
When to Get There
Summer (December–February) is the most popular time to visit the Mornington Peninsula, but the winter months (June–August) can also get busy. The quietest time to visit is during spring and autumn, when the milder temperatures can be ideal for hiking and outdoor activities, and tours and accommodation are often cheaper.
Family Fun on the Mornington Peninsula
See koalas and kangaroos at the Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, go dolphin watching along the coast, or take a ride on the Mornington Railway steam train. Other fun activities to enjoy as a family include berry picking at the Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm, chocolate and ice cream tasting at Mornington Peninsula Chocolates, and navigating the mazes at the Enchanted Adventure Garden.
Address: 359B Point Nepean Road, Dromana, Victoria, Australia
From $ 96
Melbourne Zoo
Animals from Australia and around the world have called the Melbourne Zoo home since 1862, making it Australia's oldest zoo. Surrounded by landscaped gardens, the zoo is a popular location for picnics and evening concerts during the summer.
Star attractions at Melbourne Zoo include the colorful inhabitants of the Butterfly House, families of gorillas at play in the Gorilla Rainforest, and native animals like kangaroos, wombats and koalas in the Amazing Australians exhibits.
Most famous of all is the Trail of the Elephants, the Asian village home of the zoo's five elephants, including recent addition baby Mali. Orangutans are viewed from elevated boardwalks, and penguins and seals swim in the Wild Sea display. Don’t miss feeding time and Meet the Keeper presentations.Practical Info
Melbourne Zoo is a couple of kilometers from central Melbourne, on the northern edge of town in Parkville. Catch a tram from the city along William Street, or a train from Flinders Street Station to Royal Park Station. The Zoological Gardens cover acres of different landscapes, including formal gardens, rainforest and jungle. Free guided tours highlight the zoo's star exhibits.
Address: Elliot Avenue, Parkville, Melbourne 3052, Australia
Hours: Open 9am - 5pm every day
Admission: Adults: AU$24.80, Children (4-15yrs): AU$12.40
From $ 33
Moorilla Estate Winery
Art, wine, boutique accommodations—with a brewery thrown in for fun—that’s the experience waiting here at this vineyard just north of Hobart, where imposing Mt. Wellington rises in the distance yet you still smell salt on the breeze. Housed at one of Tasmania’s oldest vineyards, Moorilla Estate winery uses tight clusters of grapes that are grown on exceptionally mature vines, and crafts them into Chardonnay, Syrah, and Pinot Noir. Nearly 20 different wines in total are produced right here on the vineyard, which is conveniently set right next to MONA—the fascinating Museum of Old and New art that houses Australia’s largest private art collection in its modern, quirky interior. Combine a tour of the museum and vineyard before sitting down for a tasting, discussing the elements of art on display while swishing and sniffing your wine. If the entire experience is too good to leave, the boutique, luxurious MONA pavilions are located right on sight, so you can wake in the morning, enjoy the café, and spend another Hobart day surrounded by art and wine.
Practical Info
90 minute guided tours of the winery and tasting room depart at 3:30pm from Wednesday-Monday. Brewery tours take place on Fridays at 12:30pm.
Address: 651-655 Main Road, Berriedale, Tasmania, Australia TAS 7011, Australia
Hours: Open Wed-Mon 10am-6pm
Admission: Wine tasting: $10; Guided tour: $15; Brewery tour: $30
From $ 122
Mindil Beach
Mindil Beach is absolutely Darwin’s most visited and best known beach. Home to the famous Mindil Sunset Markets, the beach offers a little bit of everything to the visiting traveler, including 500 meters of golden sand bordered by Bullocky and Myilly points to the north and south, respectively. The beach looks west out onto the waters of the Beagle Gulf, perfectly situated for visitors to sit back and watch the sun set over the waves. The markets showcase the best local creative talent and offer fresh produce while promoting sustainability, supporting locally grown talent and food and encouraging the use of public transportation to and from the beach.
The Mindil Beach Reserve, a large park dedicated to preserving some of the city’s original wilderness, sits near the ocean, and the SKYCITY Darwin, the city's casino, is nearby in juxtaposition.
Practical Info
The Mindil Beach Sunset Markets usually run from Apil through Otober. They are open from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. on Thursdays and from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Sundays. Mindil Beach is patrolled during the day from June through September.
Address: Darwin, Australia
From $ 27
Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park
Enjoy a quintessential Australian wildlife experience – in the dark – by taking a nocturnal tour at Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park. Revealing mysterious nocturnal creatures that visitors seldom see, the eco-conscious crew at the Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park offer both day and night viewing sessions.
Your wildlife encounter may include patting koalas, feeding wallabies and watching for dingos and snakes by day, before searching for quolls, owls and sugar gliders in the moonlight.
Sprawled across 10 hectares of bushland at the top of the picturesque Mornington Peninsula, the Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park is just outside of Melbourne and makes an easy daytrip for groups, tourists and locals alike. Best of all, you can leave feeling like you’ve not only encountered Australian wildlife in natural environments, but also helped to support the conservation and education programs run by Moonlit Sanctuary.
Your wildlife encounter may include patting koalas, feeding wallabies and watching for dingos and snakes by day, before searching for quolls, owls and sugar gliders in the moonlight.
Sprawled across 10 hectares of bushland at the top of the picturesque Mornington Peninsula, the Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park is just outside of Melbourne and makes an easy daytrip for groups, tourists and locals alike. Best of all, you can leave feeling like you’ve not only encountered Australian wildlife in natural environments, but also helped to support the conservation and education programs run by Moonlit Sanctuary.
Practical Info:
The Moonlit Sanctuary is less than one hour drive from Melbourne, using the tolled Eastlink freeway, or the Monash Freeway (M1) and Westernport Highway (A780). The street address is 550 Tyabb Tooradin Road, Pearcedale.
Other transport options include taking a tour, or catching a train between Melbourne and Frankston, then the 776 bus service between Frankston Railway Station and Pearcedale Shopping Centre.
Daytime admission is from 10am to 5pm daily, except Christmas Day. Adult day admission costs $17, or is included in the Mornington Peninsula Attraction Pass offered by local tourism organisation, EMMP. Night tour times vary and must be booked in advance at a cost of $40 for adults.
Cheaper admission for both day and night sessions is available for concession holders, kids, aged between four and 15 years, and little ones under four years old.
Other transport options include taking a tour, or catching a train between Melbourne and Frankston, then the 776 bus service between Frankston Railway Station and Pearcedale Shopping Centre.
Daytime admission is from 10am to 5pm daily, except Christmas Day. Adult day admission costs $17, or is included in the Mornington Peninsula Attraction Pass offered by local tourism organisation, EMMP. Night tour times vary and must be booked in advance at a cost of $40 for adults.
Cheaper admission for both day and night sessions is available for concession holders, kids, aged between four and 15 years, and little ones under four years old.
Address: 550 Tyabb Tooradin Road, Pearcedale, Melbourne 3912, Australia
Hours: Mon-Sun 10am-5pm
Admission: Adults: $17
From $ 93
Moreton Island
With its miles of sun-bleached sandy beaches, towering sand dunes, shimmering lagoons, and pockets of wild bushland, Moreton Island feels a world away from nearby Brisbane. As the third largest sand island in the world and a national park, Moreton Island makes for a perfect day trip when you want to get in touch with nature.
The Basics
Reached by ferry from Brisbane, the Moreton Island National Park is a popular weekend retreat for visitors and city dwellers, and it’s easy to take in the highlights on a day trip. For the best experience, book a tour to soak up the scenery while spotting whales and dolphins on a cruise around Moreton Bay; swim or snorkel at Tangalooma beach; zip along the sand tracks and dunes on a quad bike; or get your adrenaline fix with activities like sand tobogganing, parasailing, paddleboarding, riding a glass-bottom boat, or kayaking.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Temperatures can reach upwards of 86°F (30°C) in summer, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as well as a swimsuit and towel.
- Bring picnic supplies and bottled water with you from the mainland, as there is only one shop on Moreton Island.
- Moreton Island is a sand island, so trails and beaches are only accessible by 4WD. A vehicle permit is also required.
- The Tangalooma Island Resort is wheelchair accessible and offers beach wheelchairs, but not all island activities are fully accessible to those with limited mobility.
How to Get to Moreton Island
Moreton Island is located about 36 miles (58 kilometers) northeast of Brisbane on the southeast coast of Queensland and is reachable only by boat or private plane. Daily ferries leave from the Port of Brisbane and Eagle Farm, and it’s about a one hour and 15-minute ride. Tours typically leave from Brisbane, the Gold Coast, or the Sunshine Coast.
When to Get There
Water temperatures rarely drop below 70°F (21°C), making it comfortable to swim year-round at Moreton Island. The summer months (November to February) are warmest and busiest. Visiting out of season can mean cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and better deals on tours and accommodations, while wildlife enthusiasts may want to visit during the whale-watching season (June to October).
Off-Road on Moreton Island
Snorkeling the Tangalooma Wrecks and feeding wild dolphins are popular activities, but there are island adventures to be had off the beaten track. Climb the Mount Tempest sand dune for an unforgettable coastal view; visit the historic Cape Moreton Lighthouse; take a dip in the Blue Lagoon or the Champagne Pools; or hike among World War II ruins along the Rous Battery track.
Address: Beach Road, Tangalooma 4025, Australia
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 74
Menglers Hill Lookout
One of the most popular scenic overlooks in the Barossa Valley, visitors to Menglers Hill Lookout can take in bird's-eye views of the region’s expansive vineyards and rolling hills. The nearby sculpture park, which sits at the foot of Menglers Hill, offers travelers a whimsical, playful look at the works of nine artists who visited the area in 1988. Visitors say this picturesque peak is the perfect place for snapping scenic photos or escaping into the quiet and quaint rural countryside on a trip to Barossa.
Practical Info
The road between Tanunda and Angaston bypasses Mengler Hill, making the overlook easily accessible to those traveling by car. The nearby Barossa Sculpture Park is also worth a stop.
Address: Mengler Hill Road, Bethany, South Australia, Australia
From $ 103
Milsons Point
Travelers love Milsons Point because of the uninterrupted views of Harbour Bridge and the iconic Opera House. During hot summer nights, locals gather on this tiny peninsula in Sydney Harbour opposite Sydney Cove and watch the sun dip down over the central business district skyline. This quiet spot has become a destination for those looking to capture a perfect picture of the city.
When day turns to night, young couples can be found holding hands as they stroll along the neon-lit midway of nearby Luna Park. The low-key crowd will appreciate the well-manicured suburbs of the north shore that are ripe with quiet cafes, continental restaurants and plenty of friendly locals.
Practical Info
Milsons Point is within walking distance of Luna Park, the Chinese Christian Church and North Sydney Olympic Pool. Firework shows often take place after dark, making evening hours one of the best times to visit. Travelers can easily find free parking in the area from the late afternoon on.
Address: Sydney, Australia
From $ 41