Choose from 889 Fun Things to Do in Australia And The Pacific
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School of the Air
These days it’s commonplace for many schools to offer programs online, where you can receive a degree without ever seeing a teacher. Well, before the age of the internet, there was radio-- the means of how School of the Air in Alice Springs, Australia, nobly pioneered the idea to reach out to kids in obscure destinations without proper schools. One visit to the school premises, which is now complete with its own Visitor Center, and you can share a moving experience that shows how the utilization of technology we take for granted has not only brought people together, but shaped lives.
Teaching primary and secondary level students since the 50’s, today students are outstretched as far as 502,000 square miles from the school. You can watch a film about the history of this truly unique school, and even listen in on live classes, which have since switched from the radio era to a highly more modernized and efficient broadband internet model. If you happen to arrive when sessions are closed, you may listen in on pre-recorded lessons, with interpreters on site to help you with translations and to field any questions.
Teaching primary and secondary level students since the 50’s, today students are outstretched as far as 502,000 square miles from the school. You can watch a film about the history of this truly unique school, and even listen in on live classes, which have since switched from the radio era to a highly more modernized and efficient broadband internet model. If you happen to arrive when sessions are closed, you may listen in on pre-recorded lessons, with interpreters on site to help you with translations and to field any questions.
Practical Info
Once in Alice Spring’s, local buses from town are available for $2 that
will drop you off right in front of the Visitor Center, otherwise it is a
mere 2.1 miles from town, where you can drive or even take the
available hiking and walking path that leads right to the front door.
Address: 80 Head Street, Alice Springs, Australia
Hours: Open Mon - Sat 8:30am - 4:30pm, Sun 1:30pm - 4:30pm
Admission: Adults: AU$6.50, Children (5 - 16 yrs): AU$4.50
From $ 8
Shoalhaven Zoo
Aside from the wallabies or kangaroos you might see while hiking or driving, the best way to see animals in Australia is at spots like spectacular Shoalhaven Zoo. Set outside the town of Nowra on the coast of New South Wales, this 16-acre wildlife facility has 100 species of exotic animals in a native bushland setting. Here you’ll find dingoes, koalas, wallabies, tortoises, pythons, and llamas, as well as Capuchin and Marmoset monkeys and lazy but fearsome crocodiles. Watch as zookeepers hand feed the crocs or play with the cuddly koalas, and hear educational lectures from zookeepers on all the various wildlife. If traveling with children, listen as they try to imitate a kookaburra or laugh at the blue faced cassowary, or take the whole family on a rainforest adventure as you navigate the caves, bridges, and ladders of the aptly named Adventure Walk. There’s also a campground located on site if you’d like to stay overnight, and possibly fall asleep to the sounds of exotic animals in the distance.
Practical Info
Daily animal shows take place between 11am-3pm, and visitors should allow at least 2 hours to properly experience the zoo. For additional fees, partake in experiences like Monkey Madness where you hand feed Marmoset monkeys, or the Ultimate Keeper where you accompany a zookeeper feeding animals for nearly 2 hours.
Address: 23 Rock Hill Road, North Nowra, New South Wales 2541, Australia
Hours: 9am-5pm daily. Closed on Christmas.
Admission: $25 for adults, $15 for children, or $68 for a family pass of 2 adults and 2 children
From $ 297
Seal Bay Conservation Park
One of the major attractions of Kangaroo Island, Seal Bay Conservation Park is the home of the rare Australian Sea Lion.
The Conservation Park contains numerous attractions, such as the Bales Bay Picnic Area, which provides the perfect lunch spot with picnic and barbeque areas. A short walk from the Picnic Area is a lookout offering views of Cape Gantheaume where migrating whales can be seen swimming offshore from May through October. A short drive from the Picnic Area is the Bales Bay beach.
The true attractions of the park however, are the sea lions. A tour is the best way to learn about the sea lions, and to see them up close. Guides take visitors to the colony, relating information about the sea lions, their behaviour, and their conservation. The Seal Bay Experience tour is run several times a day, allowing visitors to walk among the sea lions and marvel at these amazing animals up close. Be sure to bring a camera to capture every moment!
For those who want a little distance between themselves and the seals, the Boardwalk Self-Guided Experience doesn’t disappoint. A short, wheelchair friendly boardwalk, the walk provides an unobstructed view of the sea lion colony and the Southern Ocean behind them. The viewing platform at the end of the boardwalk is a prime whale watching spot. The Sunset Tour is easily the most spectacular tour, taking visitors onto the beach in a single group as the sun sets, casting a golden glow.
The Conservation Park contains numerous attractions, such as the Bales Bay Picnic Area, which provides the perfect lunch spot with picnic and barbeque areas. A short walk from the Picnic Area is a lookout offering views of Cape Gantheaume where migrating whales can be seen swimming offshore from May through October. A short drive from the Picnic Area is the Bales Bay beach.
The true attractions of the park however, are the sea lions. A tour is the best way to learn about the sea lions, and to see them up close. Guides take visitors to the colony, relating information about the sea lions, their behaviour, and their conservation. The Seal Bay Experience tour is run several times a day, allowing visitors to walk among the sea lions and marvel at these amazing animals up close. Be sure to bring a camera to capture every moment!
For those who want a little distance between themselves and the seals, the Boardwalk Self-Guided Experience doesn’t disappoint. A short, wheelchair friendly boardwalk, the walk provides an unobstructed view of the sea lion colony and the Southern Ocean behind them. The viewing platform at the end of the boardwalk is a prime whale watching spot. The Sunset Tour is easily the most spectacular tour, taking visitors onto the beach in a single group as the sun sets, casting a golden glow.
Practical Info:
The Seal Bay Conservation Park lies on the southern coast of Kangaroo
Island, only a 45 minute drive from Kingscote. The park is open 9-5
daily, and stays open until 6 in the summer months of December and
January. Entry to the park is free, though fees apply for the tours. The
following fees are for adults/children. Seal Bay Experience (including
Boardwalk): $32/18. Boardwalk Self-Guided Experience: $15/9. Sunset
Tour: $60/36.
Address: Seal Bay Conservation Park, Seal Bay, SA 5223, Australia
Hours: Open Daily: Feb - Nov: 9am - 5pm; Dec - Jan: 9am - 6pm. Closed Christmas Day.
Admission: Guided Tour: Adult: $32, Child $18. Self-Guided: Adult: $15, Child: $9.
From $ 156
Shotover River
In the late 1800s, the Shotover River was a storied outpost of gold, prospectors, and wilderness. Dust-covered panhandlers would camp in canyons in the foothills of the Southern Alps, and scour the raging, turquoise waters with the hope of striking it rich. Today, adrenaline and adventure have replaced sluicing and straining as the most popular pursuits on the river, as the Shotover has become the aquatic playground of visitors traveling to Queenstown.
Bounce down frothing, blue and white rapids while paddling a whitewater raft, or try not to smile as your cheeks flap wildly on a high-speed jetboat up the river. The Shotover drains into the Kawarau River beneath the famous Kawarau Bridge, and you can dip your hands in the cool waters after bungy-jumping from the historic trestle. Even the drive towards the Shotover River is an outdoor adventure in itself, as the road leading into Skipper’s Canyon is a winding, mountainous time portal.
Practical Info
The Shotover River is located north of Queenstown, and most rafting companies will drive for 40 minutes before putting on the river. When rafting, the Shotover River has larger rapids than the neighboring Kawarau River, and also passes through the 560ft. Oxenbridge Tunnel. It’s considered more advanced than the Kawarau River and all rafters must be able to swim.
Address: New Zealand
From $ 77
Shipwreck Galleries
Celebrated as Australia’s leading maritime archaeology museum, the Shipwreck Galleries are among the highlights of Fremantle’s Western Australian Museum, housed in an impressive 19th-century Commissariat building. Inside, visitors can uncover fascinating tales of shipwrecks, mutiny and trade along Australia’s treacherous west coast; marvel at items retrieved from shipwrecks like the Zuytdorp, Zeewijk and Vergulde Draeck; and see part of the hull of the Dutch merchant ship, Batavia.
Among the hundreds of items on display, highlights include a 17th-century inscribed plate left on Cape Inscription by Willem de Vlamingh, a plate left by Dirk Hartog during the first confirmed European landing in Western Australia, and a huge collection of rare maps, charts and other artifacts.
Practical Info
The Shipwreck Galleries is part of the Western Australian Museum, located on Cliff Street in central Fremantle and is open daily from 9:30am-5pm. Admission is free.
Address: 45 Cliff Street, Fremantle, Australia
Hours: Daily 9:30am-5pm
From $ 20
Scarborough Beach
Characterized by bright white sand, the clear azure waters of the Indian Ocean and relatively still waters, Scarborough Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Perth.
Scarborough Beach is a long, wide strip of sand along the coastal town of Scarborough north of Perth. The wide expanse of sand is perfect for the hundreds of people that descend on the beach come summertime for picnics, sun bathing, beach volleyball and more, whilst the immense length of the beach ensures there’s plenty of room for everyone.
The water off the beach deepens slowly and on a calm day has very little surf, making it perfect for families and those who prefer to frolic without huge waves. When it’s windy however the surf comes alive, drawing surfers and kiteboarders alike to take advantage of the waves. Do be aware that strong currents can run down the beach, so pay attention to where the flags are placed – this is usually the safest area of the beach.
Behind the beach lies a grassed area, freshwater showers and the Esplanade streetscape. Head here after you’ve washed off the day’s sand to have dinner in one of the restaurants or bars that look back towards the ocean. A number of cafés provide a fantastic brunch spot if you fancy starting your day that way.
Scarborough Beach is a long, wide strip of sand along the coastal town of Scarborough north of Perth. The wide expanse of sand is perfect for the hundreds of people that descend on the beach come summertime for picnics, sun bathing, beach volleyball and more, whilst the immense length of the beach ensures there’s plenty of room for everyone.
The water off the beach deepens slowly and on a calm day has very little surf, making it perfect for families and those who prefer to frolic without huge waves. When it’s windy however the surf comes alive, drawing surfers and kiteboarders alike to take advantage of the waves. Do be aware that strong currents can run down the beach, so pay attention to where the flags are placed – this is usually the safest area of the beach.
Behind the beach lies a grassed area, freshwater showers and the Esplanade streetscape. Head here after you’ve washed off the day’s sand to have dinner in one of the restaurants or bars that look back towards the ocean. A number of cafés provide a fantastic brunch spot if you fancy starting your day that way.
Practical Info
Scarborough Beach is a 20 minute drive northwest from the Perth CBD, or 40 minutes from the airport. The beach is ‘open’ 24/7, but be aware that the lifeguard station is only manned during certain hours. Never swim at night.
Address: Scarborough Beach, Perth, WA, Australia
From $ 137
Sherbrooke Forest
The largest section of the Dandenong Ranges National Park, Sherbrooke Forest is known for its fauna and wildlife — including wallabies and the famous lyrebird which can mimic dozens of other birds, and even car alarms and camera shutters. Near the suburb of Belgrave, 40 kilometers east of Melbourne, Sherbrooke Forest is dominated by Mountain Ash — the tallest flowering plant in the world, and tree ferns.
Once prime logging land, by 1958 Sherbrooke Forest was officially protected parkland. On a visit, you’ll start at the picnic grounds from which a series of trails leads into the wet sclerophyll forest. One of the most popular trails is the 2.4-km round trip to Sherbrooke Falls through avenues of Mountain Ash. Or if you’d rather just relax, head to the tea room next to the picnic grounds where there are lots of birds to feed for a small fee, including parrots, rosellas, and around fifty cockatoos. And if you ride the Puffing Billy train, you’ll also ride through the southern section of Sherbrooke Forest.
Practical Info
Six kilometers from Belgrave, the paths in Sherbrooke Forest can be a little slippery, given that it’s a rainforest, so do wear good hiking boots if you plan to go beyond the picnic grounds.
Address: Victoria, Australia
From $ 76
Sarah Island
Modern Australia was famously founded by boatloads of British convicts, and Sarah Island off of western Tasmania was once reserved for the worst offenders. Isolated, wet and completely surrounded by the tempestuous Southern Ocean, not only is it Australia’s oldest penal colony, but the remote outpost was such a fearsome place to be sent that the mouth of the harbor leading out toward the island was simply known as “Hell’s Gate.” The penal colony was short-lived, however, only lasting from 1822 to 1833. During that time, convicts were enlisted for the backbreaking work of felling the surrounding pine trees, and there was a brief time when Sarah Island was the largest ship-building site in Australia.
Conditions on the island were horrendously bad, and prisoners were said to have favored execution over continued life here. Many tried to escape, and though most failed and met a miserable fate, a famous few were able to flee and live a life on the run. Today, all that remains of the penal colony are the ruins of the former quarters, and touring the island is one of the most popular activities for visitors staying in Strahan. Hear stories of scurvy, torture and the misery of solitary confinement, while also gaining insight into the formative years of the pioneering settlers of Tasmania. Oftentimes a visit to Sarah Island is combined with a Gordon River cruise, which provides a scenic and stark contrast of comforts compared to the historic island.
Practical Info
Tours to Sarah Island depart from Macquarie Harbor in the west coast town of Strahan, located 185 miles from the capital of Hobart. Private boats are available for hire, although most visitors choose to visit as part of a Gordon River cruise. The weather on the west coast of Tasmania can often be blustery and wet, and travelers should prepare for any weather even in the drier months of summer.
Address: Sarah Island, Macquarie Harbor, Tasmania, Australia
Hours: Daily
From $ 100
Shark Island
On an urban getaway to Sydney's Shark Island, travelers can surround themselves with the cobalt waters of the famous Sydney Harbour and find the best coastal perch to enjoy the panoramic view. Once used for animal quarantine, Shark Island is now part of the Sydney Harbour National Park. The 3.7-acre island's picnic tables, walking paths and craggy coves are sprinkled with sand and sea glass, offering a peaceful escape just a short ferry ride from bustling Circular Quay.
Visit as part of a guided tour to stroll the shoreline and snorkel, or make your own schedule by visiting as part of a hop on, hop off ferry cruise. Aside from seeing Shark Island itself, travelers are treated to a full view of Sydney Harbour, where the Opera House and Harbour Bridge rise up from the hills and waves.
Practical Info
The ferry crossing is 35 minutes from Darling Harbor and 20 minutes from Circular Quay, with the first ferry running at 9:30am. On weekdays, the final ferry leaves Shark Island around 2:30pm, which is extended to 4:25pm on weekends. Since there are no dining facilities on Shark Island, be sure to plan ahead and pack everything you'll need for the day, including food and water.
Did You Know? The island is named for its shape, which greatly resembles that of a shark.
Address: Shark Island, Point Piper, New South Wales, Australia
From $ 36
Seventy-Five Mile Beach
This stretch of soft white sand is aptly named Seventy-Five Mile Beach due to the fact that it’s 75 miles (121 kilometers) long. Running along majority of Fraser Island’s east coast, the beach offers a number of experiences, although swimming is not advised due to the high number of tiger sharks. That being said off-roading and fishing are popular pastimes on the beach, as is visiting its many attractions. If you are wanting to swim safely there are the Champagne Pools, natural rock pools that feature frothy Champagne-like bubbles when waves crash over the rocks.
Additionally, Indian Head is a rocky outcrop popular for watching stingrays, fish, turtles, dolphins and sharks in the surf. Visitors can also visit the Maheno Wreck, once one of the world’s fastest ships and used for target practice by the Australian Airforce in WWII. After a bad storm in 1935 it was pushed to the beach’s shore as it was being towed to Japan to be scrapped. And no trip to Seventy-Five Mile Beach would be complete without experiencing Eli Creek, a crystal clear freshwater creek where you can enjoy a relaxing float. Something else interesting about Seventy-Five Mile Beach is it’s not just used for recreation, but also as a highway and runway, as the hard-packed sand makes for great off-roading and planes often land here.
Additionally, Indian Head is a rocky outcrop popular for watching stingrays, fish, turtles, dolphins and sharks in the surf. Visitors can also visit the Maheno Wreck, once one of the world’s fastest ships and used for target practice by the Australian Airforce in WWII. After a bad storm in 1935 it was pushed to the beach’s shore as it was being towed to Japan to be scrapped. And no trip to Seventy-Five Mile Beach would be complete without experiencing Eli Creek, a crystal clear freshwater creek where you can enjoy a relaxing float. Something else interesting about Seventy-Five Mile Beach is it’s not just used for recreation, but also as a highway and runway, as the hard-packed sand makes for great off-roading and planes often land here.
Practical Info
From the ferry drop-off on Fraser Island you’ll follow the designated sand pathways through the rainforest before emerging onto Seventy-Five Mile Beach. Be advised swimming is not recommended as the water is filled with tiger sharks, although you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of these marine creatures along with dolphins, turtles and fish from Indian Head. Make sure to keep an eye on the tide, as when it comes up there isn’t enough beach to drive on and you’ll need to wait until it’s low again to leave. Also, keep an eye out for wild dingoes, which can be unpredictable and aggressive, especially when searching for food. Keep any food you’ve brought sealed tight and out of the open.
Address: Seventy-Five Mile Beach, Fraser Island, QLD, Australia
From $ 141
SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
Australia’s wild and wonderful aquatic life is highlighted at the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, one of the world’s largest aquariums and among Sydney’s top visitor attractions.
There are several exhibit areas representing Australia’s varied habitats and ecosystems, including platypus from the Southern Rivers, salty crocodiles from the Northern Rivers, dugongs in the Mermaid Lagoon, little penguins from the Southern Ocean, and tropical fish from the Great Barrier Reef.
There are several exhibit areas representing Australia’s varied habitats and ecosystems, including platypus from the Southern Rivers, salty crocodiles from the Northern Rivers, dugongs in the Mermaid Lagoon, little penguins from the Southern Ocean, and tropical fish from the Great Barrier Reef.
Sharks swim overhead glass tunnels, there’s a tropical touch pool and corals in the Great Barrier Reef, and daily activities include glass-bottom boat shark feeding, talks with the dugongs, penguin feeding, and Reef Theatre displays.
Practical Info
SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is in Darling Harbour, flanking the western side of central Sydney. Follow Market St if you’re getting here on foot, jump off a ferry from Circular Quay, take the Monorail to Darling Park Station or if you’re coming into town, get off the train at Town Hall Station. The crocodiles, koalas and kangaroos of Sydney Wildlife World are next door to Sydney Aquarium.
Address: Darling Harbour, Sydney 2000, Australia
Admission: Varies
From $ 21
Seppeltsfield Wines
When was the last time you toured a winery and tasted the year you were born? At Seppeltsfield Wines in the Barossa Valley, barrels that have been aging for 100 years create an oenophile’s archive that is unparalleled by any other winery in the world. Each year, Seppeltsfield releases a “Para Tawny” that has been aged for 100 years, and has consistently uncorked a 100-year old vintage since 1978. Visitors can enjoy a casual tasting at the large cellar door, or book one of the legendary tours for a taste of the fancier wines. The Seppeltsfield name is synonymous with wine here in the Barossa Valley, and in addition to tasting the famous wines, there is also a restaurant and contemporary design studio to round out the vineyard experience. If it’s a nice summer day, or you just feel like a walk, linger a while in the vineyard gardens among date palms, roses, and elms. It’s all a part of a day at Seppeltsfield, where the wine, scenery, and regal history are a perfectly charming combination.
Practical Info
Seppeltsfield Wines is in the Barossa Valley about an hour northeast of Adelaide. The cellar door is open for tastings, and the JamFactory craft gallery is open from 11am-5pm, seven days per week.
Address: Seppeltsfield Road, Seppeltsfield, South Australia, Australia
From $ 59
Sawa-i-Lau Caves
These scenic ancient limestone caves are located on Sawa-i-Lau Island in the Yasawa island group, the home of the famous Blue Lagoon. An adventure in their own right, the caves have been carved from continuous wave action and are known as the resting place of the ancient Fijian god Ulutini.
Today they can be visited for a unique swimming experience. The first cavern is filled with natural light and a deep pool with a water temperature only a few degrees cooler than that of the Pacific Ocean water outside. Take a dip in the cave’s clear waters to see otherworldly limestone formations.
The second cave, depending on the tide, can only be accessed by swimming through an underground tunnel. The caves are known to Fijians as the “heart of the Yasawa” for their beauty and significance.
Practical Info
The Sawa-i-Lau Caves are located off the southern tip of Yasawa Island. They are best visited by boat and can be hard to find, so it is recommended that you visit with a guide.
Address: Near Nabukeru Village, Yasawa Island, Fiji
Admission: Adults FJ$ 10. Local guide: Adults FJ$ 3.
From $ 74
Scenic World
Situated at the heart of Australia’s Blue Mountains UNESCO World Heritage Site, Scenic World offers the rare chance to explore the mountains from all angles. Ride overhead in a cable car, hike along the valley floor, ride a train through mountain tunnels, and discover some of the most impressive scenery in Blue Mountains National Park.
The Basics
Scenic World has four main attractions—the Scenic Skyway, Scenic Cableway, Scenic Walkway, and Scenic Railway—and both single and combination tickets are available. The glass-floored Scenic Skyway is the largest aerial cable car in the Southern Hemisphere and offers views of Katoomba Falls, the Three Sisters, and the Jamison Valley. The Scenic Cableway descends into the Jamison Valley, with views of Orphan Rock and Mount Solitary, while the Scenic Walkway is a 1.5-mile-long (2.4-kilometer-long) boardwalk through the lush rain forest of the Jamison Valley floor. Finally, the thrilling Scenic Railway is the steepest passenger railway in the world, climbing out of the valley.
Most travelers visit on a day tour from Sydney, and many Blue Mountains tours include a cruise down the Parramatta River or stops at attractions such as the Featherdale Wildlife Park or the mountain town of Leura.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Facilities at Scenic World include car parking, a restaurant, café, and gift shop.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, especially if you plan on bushwalking, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
- The Cableway and Skyway are both wheelchair accessible, as is part of the Scenic Walkway. Due to the steep grade traveled by the Scenic Railway, it is not recommended for travelers with disabilities.
How to Get There
Scenic World is located just outside of Katoomba village in Blue Mountains National Park, around 62 miles (100 kilometers) or a 90-minute drive from downtown Sydney. To arrive by public transport, catch the train from central Sydney to Katoomba, from which buses make the short journey to Scenic World.
When to Get There
It’s possible to visit Scenic World all year round, but the busiest time is during the peak summer season (December–January), when it’s best to make an early start to avoid the crowds. If you’re planning on bushwalking or other outdoor activities, the cooler weather of spring and autumn is ideal.
Exploring Australia’s Blue Mountains
Popular among outdoor enthusiasts, the Blue Mountains offer activities such as bushwalking, mountain biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and caving. Among their highlights are the Three Sisters rocks, Wentworth Falls, Gordon Falls, and the Jenolan Caves, among the oldest in the world. Less physically demanding adventures include 4WD excursions in Blue Mountains National Park, helicopter rides over the mountains, and cruises to Sydney along the Parramatta River.
Address: Violet St, Katoomba, NSW 2780, Australia
Admission: Varies
From $ 29
Silo Park
This free public space located in Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter gets its name from the abandoned silos that tower around the park’s grassy field. During summer months, locals gather here to enjoy evening outdoor cinema, as well as live performances that include dance, music and theater.
Silo Park is also known for its eclectic markets, which include the Friday Night Market, which kicks off at 5 p.m. during the summer months and the Saturday and Sunday Markets that open at noon. Travelers will find a unique collection of food stalls, artists, street performers, musicians and plenty of fun at these popular gathering spots that are perfect for picking up souvenirs.
Practical Info
Silo Park is located in the Wynyard Quarter of Auckland on the corner of Jellicoe and Beaumont Streets. It is west of Viaduct Harbor and north of Victoria Park. Live performances typically take place on Sundays at 3 p.m. and are free to the public.
Address: Beaumont Street and Jellicoe Street, Auckland, New Zealand
From $ 48
Sea World Gold Coast
One of Australia’s biggest marine parks, Sea World Gold Coast is home to dolphins, rays, sharks, polar bears, and seals. The family attraction has thrilling rides, educational exhibits, and daily live shows, and it’s also involved in marine life rescue and rehabilitation efforts along the Gold Coast.
The Basics
As one of the most popular Gold Coast theme parks, it’s worth prebooking your tickets for Sea World Gold Coast to ensure fast-track entry.
Thrill-seekers can invest in a multi-day Gold Coast Theme Park pass to enjoy admission to Sea World plus Warner Bros. Movie World, Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast, and Paradise Country. A standard Day Pass to Sea World includes access to all of the park’s exhibitions, shows, and rides. A number of experiences are available to book, including behind-the-scenes tours and jet boat rides.
Things to Know Before You Go
- On-site facilities include paid storage lockers, ATMs, free Wi-Fi, and a selection of shops and restaurants.
- Most attractions are outdoors, so bring sun protection and wear comfortable clothing and footwear. Bring a towel and a change of clothes if taking part in any water-based activities.
- Many rides and attractions are wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available on-site for free (advance reservations recommended).
- Minimum age requirements vary by activity from 4 to 14 years old.
How to Get There
Sea World is in Southport, Queensland, 49 miles (79 kilometers) southeast of Brisbane and 4.5 miles (7 kilometers) north of Surfers Paradise. Get there by car, taxi, or a tour. There are also public buses from the Gold Coast that stop close to the park. The closest international airports are the Gold Coast and Brisbane, both around an hour’s drive away.
When to Get There
Sea World is open year-round. Summer months (December–January), when it can get crowded. With sunny days all year, visiting in low season is a good way to maximize your time and avoid congestion, but a trip during school holidays and celebrations can be more atmospheric, with special seasonal events, such Sea World Carnivale.
Family Fun at Sea World Gold Coast
The highlight of a Sea World visit is the animal residents: Stop by Penguin Point and Polar Bear Shores, visit Shark Bay’s underwater viewing area, and learn about rehabilitation efforts at Seabird Rehabilitation Aviary. Watch live shows, including a high-speed Jet Ski stunt show and appearances from PAW Patrol, SpongeBob SquarePants, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Enjoy Storm Coaster and Jet Rescue coaster, or let kids discover Castaway Bay and Nickelodeon Land.
Address: Sea World Drive, Main Beach, Queensland 4217, Australia
Admission: Varies
From $ 70
Seahorse World
Located in northern Tasmania, Seahorse World is the world’s first commercial seahorse farm. Fueled by concern over dwindling seahorse populations, it got its start in research work at the University of Tasmania in the 1990s.
Today, Seahorse World works to conserve seahorses, by reducing numbers taken from the wild with its breeding program. It also offers visitors an educational tour of their aquarium dedicated to the breeding, education and conservation of the seahorse.
Tours, a little less than an hour in length, give visitors a behind-the-scenes view of a working seahorse farm. Along with seahorses, you’ll see an assortment of other colorful marine creatures in the aquarium like sharks, stingrays, spider crabs and giant cuttlefish.
Practical Info
Seahorse World is located north of Launceston, at Beauty Point in the north of Tasmania. Plan for a little less than an hour’s drive. It is open seven days a week, and in December through April, tours depart regularly from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. In May through November, tours depart on the hour, every hour from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Address: Shed 1a, Inspection Head Wharf, Beauty Point TAS 7270, Australia
Admission: $20
From $ 16
Shrine of Remembrance
Stark and solemn, the Shrine of Remembrance is Melbourne’s memorial for all Australians who fought in a war.
The Shrine was originally built to remember those who fought in World War One and is now open to the public for commemoration and education about all Australian victims of war. Permanent exhibitions show medals awarded to soldiers and records of service men and women. Temporary exhibitions and free daily tours at 11am and 2pm also allow visitors a chance to expand their understanding of Australia’s involvement in international conflicts.
The unique shrine is easily recognised by the two identical porticoes supported by eight Doric columns and topped with a pyramidal roof inspired by an ancient Mausoleum. The result of combining the Athenian and Turkish architectural designs in a bold white structure is nothing short of stunning.
The Shrine was originally built to remember those who fought in World War One and is now open to the public for commemoration and education about all Australian victims of war. Permanent exhibitions show medals awarded to soldiers and records of service men and women. Temporary exhibitions and free daily tours at 11am and 2pm also allow visitors a chance to expand their understanding of Australia’s involvement in international conflicts.
The unique shrine is easily recognised by the two identical porticoes supported by eight Doric columns and topped with a pyramidal roof inspired by an ancient Mausoleum. The result of combining the Athenian and Turkish architectural designs in a bold white structure is nothing short of stunning.
Practical Info:
Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance is located off St Kilda Road, within the King’s Domain Parkland. It can be reached within 20 minutes when walking from the city centre. Trams southbound from Flinders Street Station stop near the Shrine, along St Kilda Road. Also, Stop 13 for the Melbourne City Tourist Shuttle is nearby.
Opening hours are 10am and 5pm daily, with the exception of Good Friday and Christmas Day when it is closed. On ANZAC Day, the Shrine hosts a dawn service at 6am, an ANZAC march at 9am and a commemorative service at 1pm.
Shrine entry is free, but donations are encouraged. A gold coin donation will also allow visitors to lay a poppy in respect. Etiquette requires visitors to remove hats inside, turn off mobile phones and keep food and drinks outside.
The onsite Visitor’s Centre offers maps and advice, and the Shrine of Remembrance shops sell memorabilia.
Opening hours are 10am and 5pm daily, with the exception of Good Friday and Christmas Day when it is closed. On ANZAC Day, the Shrine hosts a dawn service at 6am, an ANZAC march at 9am and a commemorative service at 1pm.
Shrine entry is free, but donations are encouraged. A gold coin donation will also allow visitors to lay a poppy in respect. Etiquette requires visitors to remove hats inside, turn off mobile phones and keep food and drinks outside.
The onsite Visitor’s Centre offers maps and advice, and the Shrine of Remembrance shops sell memorabilia.
Address: Birdwood Ave, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
Hours: Mon-Sun 10am-5pm
From $ 25
Shelly Beach
If you’re visiting Sydney and watching the sunset while standing out on the sand, then you must be standing on Shelly Beach—the only westward facing beach on Australia’s eastern coast.
Located south of popular Manly, Shelly Beach is a smaller and quieter place to soak up some sun. The waters here in Cabbage Tree Bay are part of a protected reserve, where a small reef creates calm conditions for snorkeling, swimming, and diving. Over 150 species of marine life inhabit Cabbage Tree Bay—and the shallow waters of 30 feet or less means there’s actually a good chance of finding them.
On Shelley’s western end, out towards the reef, watch as surfers rip apart waves at the surf spot known as “Bower’s,” and even when the waves are overhead, Shelley Beach is still protected when compared to east-facing Manly. On the short stroll from Manly to Shelly, stop to admire the Fairy Bower pool that juts out into the sea, or grab a bite at Le Kiosk restaurant across the street from the sand. Above the beach, on the rocky headland, a small bush trail leads to a viewpoint gazing back towards Manly, where the pine-lined shore and golden sands combine to form one of Sydney’s most classic coastal scenes.
Located south of popular Manly, Shelly Beach is a smaller and quieter place to soak up some sun. The waters here in Cabbage Tree Bay are part of a protected reserve, where a small reef creates calm conditions for snorkeling, swimming, and diving. Over 150 species of marine life inhabit Cabbage Tree Bay—and the shallow waters of 30 feet or less means there’s actually a good chance of finding them.
On Shelley’s western end, out towards the reef, watch as surfers rip apart waves at the surf spot known as “Bower’s,” and even when the waves are overhead, Shelley Beach is still protected when compared to east-facing Manly. On the short stroll from Manly to Shelly, stop to admire the Fairy Bower pool that juts out into the sea, or grab a bite at Le Kiosk restaurant across the street from the sand. Above the beach, on the rocky headland, a small bush trail leads to a viewpoint gazing back towards Manly, where the pine-lined shore and golden sands combine to form one of Sydney’s most classic coastal scenes.
Practical Info
From Manly Beach, a coastal walking path leads 15-minutes south to Shelly Beach. There are showers, restrooms, electric grills, and parking, and the beach can often be popular on weekends with throngs of local families.
Address: Sydney, Australia
From $ 33
Sigatoka
A town on the island of Viti Levu at the mouth of the Sigatoka River, Sigatoka has become a hub for visitors to Fiji. It is home not only to a large tropical beach, but also an ornate temple, an Eco Park and nearby sand dunes. The scenic area is also famous for its vegetables, giving it the nickname of “Fiji’s salad bowl.”
The Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park, the first in Fiji, contains several miles of windblown coastal sand dunes, some reaching up to 200 feet in height. It is also an archaeological site with ancient pottery and tools that are still being discovered.
Outside of the sands and turquoise waters, there is lush jungle to explore. Sigatoka’s Kula Eco Park is Fiji’s only wildlife park, home to hundreds of species of tropical birds and reptiles. The Sigatoka River is another natural area to wander through. There are also friendly Fijians to meet, a local market and several souvenir shops known for arts, crafts and pottery.
Practical Info
Sigatoka is located on the southern coast of Viti Levu in the Coral Coast area. It is about 70 kilometers (an hour drive) from the city of Nadi.
Address: Sigatoka, Fiji
From $ 25