Choose from 889 Fun Things to Do in Australia And The Pacific
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Blue Mountains National Park
The Blue Mountains National Park, part of the Greater But Mountains World Heritage Area, is one of Australia’s most visited national parks and makes an easy day trip from Sydney. The park has over 80 miles (140 kilometers) of walking trails, protected Aboriginal sites for visitors to admire, and camping. It’s also home to Echo Point where the famous Three Sisters rock formation sits.
The Basics
Visitors to the Blue Mountains National Park will find no shortage of activities, with walking trails to Wentworth Falls, rock climbing, mountain biking, and scenic lookouts like Echo Point. The park is a certified ecotourism destination and has a number of campgrounds like Acacia Flat and Perry’s Lookdown. Many visitors choose to spend time at Scenic World, with its scenic railway, walkway and cable car.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Parking at the national park costs A$7 per car.
- There are entrance fees for each of the attractions at Scenic World.
- Scenic World is open daily from 9am–5pm.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes if you plan on walking any of the the many trails in the park.
- Wet weather in winter months and bushfires in the summers can impede visitation.
- There are a number of campgrounds in the national park, which need to be booked ahead of time.
- The surrounding villages of Katoomba and Laura have plenty of dining options for lunch.
How to Get There
Blue Mountains National Park is located about 60 miles (100 kilometers) from Sydney. The park is about 90 minutes by car or a 2-hour train ride from Central Sydney.
When to Get There
Blue Mountains National Park is open year round, but wet weather in the winter months, especially in February, makes some of the parks attractions difficult to enjoy. In summer, bushfires can cause park closures.
Scenic World
Scenic World is a nature lovers’ amusement park located inside the Blue Mountains in the town of Katoomba. The park has a railway so steep it could be mistaken for a roller coaster, a scenic skyway with views of the rainforest through its glass floor, a scenic walkway among the tree tops, and an 1800-foot (545-meter) cable car ride with great views of the Three Sisters rock formation. The attraction also has a gift shop, snack bar, and bathrooms.
Address: Blue Mountains National Park, NSW, Australia
From $ 100
Best Of All Lookout
True to its name, Best Of All Lookout has the best view in Springbrook National Park. Here, in this subtropical rainforest an hour from the Gold Coast, visitors will find an Antarctic Beech forest left over from the days of Gondwanaland, which in collection with the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage area for its unique geology and ecology. At Best Of All Lookout, visitors will peer out towards the peak of Mt Warning, which is famously known as Australia’s first place to greet the rising sun. From the viewing platform at Best Of All Lookout, the sandy coastline of Coolangatta can often be seen on clear days, as can the valleys of New South Wales that stretch all the way out towards the coast. Even though the hike to the lookout is short, keep an eye out for local wildlife like wallabies and curious padmelons, and since leeches and ticks are common in the area, be sure to wear long sleeves, pants, and boots to ward off the bush.
Practical Info
The viewing platform at the Best of All lookout is accessible via a short, ¼ mile walk on a trail through the Springbrook rainforest. Mornings tend to offer the clearest conditions before the mists roll in, and the lookout is only a short drive from Purling Brook Falls—one of the National Park’s top attractions.
Address: Repeater Station Rd, Springbrook, Queensland, Australia QLD 4213, Australia
Hours: Open 24/7
From $ 65
Bondi Beach
As Australia’s most famous beach—and the star of its own reality TV show, “Bondi Rescue”—Bondi Beach delivers with its crescent of golden sand, crashing waves, and crowds of bronzed sunseekers. Just minutes from downtown Sydney, this is the spot to work on your tan, hit the waves, sip cocktails at a beachside bar, or hike along coastal cliffs.
The Basics
A tour of Sydney’s beaches wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Bondi Beach, whether it’s to take in the ocean views, hike the Bondi to Clovelly Coastal Walk, or sign up for a surf class. Many Sydney city tours include a photo stop at Bondi, alongside other activities such as a Sydney Harbour cruise; a tour of the Manly, Paddington, and Kings Cross neighborhoods; or a day tour to the Blue Mountains or Hunter Valley. The most thrilling way to see Bondi is by zipping along the coast in a speedboat or soaring overhead on a helicopter tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Changing rooms, restrooms, and showers are available, but bring your own umbrella, sunscreen, and beach towel.
- Travelers should swim only in designated areas and when the lifeguards are present, as the waves can be strong.
- Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Bondi Beach and Bondi Park.
- Bondi Beach is wheelchair accessible, and beach wheelchairs are available at the Lifeguard Tower.
How to Get to Bondi Beach
Bondi Beach is set on the Pacific Coast in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, about five miles (eight kilometers) southeast of Sydney Harbour. Regular buses run to Bondi Beach from downtown Sydney, while trains run to Bondi Junction, a 10-minute bus ride from the beach. Bondi can also be reached via a 45-minute shuttle bus ride from Sydney Airport.
When to Get There
The sun shines year-round at Bondi Beach. To avoid hoards of tourists, visit outside of summer—temperatures can reach 85°F (30°C) even in spring and autumn—or get there for sunrise. Consider going on a Sunday for the famous Bondi Markets, or time your visit to coincide with an event such as the Festival of the Winds in September, the Bondi Winter Magic festival in June and July, or the open-air beach cinemas in summer.
Things to Do at Bondi Beach
Bondi is a hot spot for swimming, surfing, sunbathing, water sports, and various outdoor activities. Join a game of beach volleyball, take a yoga class on the shore, hike the Bondi to Coogee coastal trail, or try paddleboarding, windsurfing, or kitesurfing. You’ll also find children’s playgrounds and pools, the Bondi Iceberg Baths, a skate park, and the Bondi Golf Club.
Address: Campbell Promenade, Bondi 2026, Australia
Admission: Free
From $ 37
Bloody Mary's Restaurant
Bloody Mary's is Bora Bora's most famous restaurant. It is as well known for its food as it is for its colorful history and atmosphere.
The restaurant was founded in 1979 by an eccentric Polish nobleman, the Baron Jerzy Hubert Edward von Dange (George to his friends). It was sold to a Los Angeles businessman in 1985 but the restaurant still maintains what it calls its “old Tahiti style.” The building is a fare tiurai, a traditional hut with a thatched roof and open sides. The kitschy interior features a sand floor (bare foot dining encouraged), tiki torches and polished palm trunks for seats.
Bloody Mary's is open for lunch, dinner and drinks. On the menu is fresh seafood and the daily catch is displayed on ice at the entrance. You will no doubt be encouraged to pair your meal with a fruity island cocktail. Don't forget to check out the open air restrooms which have waterfalls instead of sinks.
The restaurant was founded in 1979 by an eccentric Polish nobleman, the Baron Jerzy Hubert Edward von Dange (George to his friends). It was sold to a Los Angeles businessman in 1985 but the restaurant still maintains what it calls its “old Tahiti style.” The building is a fare tiurai, a traditional hut with a thatched roof and open sides. The kitschy interior features a sand floor (bare foot dining encouraged), tiki torches and polished palm trunks for seats.
Bloody Mary's is open for lunch, dinner and drinks. On the menu is fresh seafood and the daily catch is displayed on ice at the entrance. You will no doubt be encouraged to pair your meal with a fruity island cocktail. Don't forget to check out the open air restrooms which have waterfalls instead of sinks.
(Image courtesy of www.bloodymarys.com)
Address: Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Hours: Restaurant: Mon-Wed 11am-3pm; Mon-Sat 6pm-9pm. Bar: Mon-Sat 9:30am-11pm
From $ 226
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
Experts at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary have been nursing some of Australia’s most-beloved creatures back to health since 1981. When the park first opened, its team of passionate volunteers worked tirelessly to provide orphaned wildlife, like its family of 17 Tasmanian devils, with a safe home and adequate care in a near-to-natural environment. For more than 20 years the sanctuary has continued to promote its mission of reducing rates of extinction by raising community awareness.
Visitors to Bonorong get a guided explanation of the sanctuary’s rehabilitation efforts, as well as a real-life lesson on the impact of wildlife conservation while on a tour of the grounds. Guests of the park can also get up close and personal with Australian animals by feeding one of the largest mobs of free-range kangaroos and wallabies in the world.
Practical Info
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is located on Briggs Road in Brighton just off the A1. Guided tours happen daily at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Visitors can book private night tours for an additional fee.
Address: 593 Briggs Rd, Brighton TAS 7030, Australia
Admission: Adult: $25; Child: $11
From $ 67
Bay of Islands Cruise Port
The Bay of Islands is a corner of the world that was meant to be explored by boat. This was the first part of the North Island to be settled by Europeans, and you can see from the islands and turquoise coves why they were immediately taken with this shoreline. Regarded by yachties as one of the best anchorages in the world, the Bay of Islands combines adventure and history with one of the most scenic coastlines in the world.
How to get to Paihia and Russell
All cruise ships arriving in the Bay of Islands will dock near Paihia at the Waitangi Wharf. To reach the town of Paihia, which is 1.3 miles away, you can either enjoy a 20-minute walk or a three-minute shuttle ride to the visitor’s center. From the i-SITE visitor’s center, activity staff and tour operators are available for all forms of assistance. While the town of Paihia is small enough to be walkable, visitors who are heading to the small town of Russell—which was at one time the capital of New Zealand—can catch a ferry from the dock in Paihia. Or, some cruise lines offer tender boats which cross the bay and dock directly on the waterfront.
One Day in the Bay of Islands
Visitors to the Bay of Islands have a smorgasbord of options to choose from which range from watersports, to history, to adventure. To explore the harbor and the surrounding islands and get a glimpse of the local marine life, hop aboard a harbor cruise to Cape Brett or Hole in the Rock. Depending upon the length of the cruise, you might have the chance to stop at empty beaches or ply the waters for dolphins. Or, for a bit of exercise, consider exploring the islands by sea kayak. For those interested in the history of the area, head directly to the Waitangi Treaty Center where the historic—and controversial—Treaty of Waitangi was signed with the Maori in 1840. You can catch a cultural performance at the Treaty House visitor center, which is located ten minutes from the center of Paihia. Finally, if you’d rather head inland to explore the forests or coastal dunes, take a tour of the Puketi forest or the wilds of Ninety-Mile Beach. These shore excursions often occupy the majority of the day in town, although they are a great way to experience the beauty of the Northland and escape the crowds back in town.
Port Information
The New Zealand dollar is the accepted currency in all of the Bay of
Islands, and a Kiwi dialect of British English is spoken by local
residents. Given the cultural history of the area, you also may hear
some snippets of Maori spoken in the area around Waitangi. For ATMs and
currency exchange, all services are located in Paihia a short walk away
from the wharf.
Address: Bay of Islands, New Zealand
From $ 77
Boab Prison Tree
Just south of Derby in the Kimberly region is a large, hollow boab tree known as the Boab Prison Tree. A popular tourist attraction, the tree is believed to have been used as a prison for indigenous Australian prisoners in the late 1800s, though some contest this.
Regardless of whether it was used as a prison or not, the boab is impressive. Believed to be about 1,500 years old, the tree has a huge diameter of 48 feet (14.7 meters) and has been declared a registered Aboriginal site. Local legend has it that early police patrols used the tree as an overnight lockup as a natural cell. The hole cut into the side of the tree is manmade, supporting the idea that it was used as such.
The interpretative centre nearby to the tree gives a history of interactions between early white pastoralists and the Aboriginal people, giving insights into local tensions and times the tree was used. The centre details the events of the droving days and World War II upon the town of Derby, as well as explaining the biology of this ancient tree. A short trail at the prison tree leads to a picnic area and a view of the longest cattle trough in the southern hemisphere: Myall’s Bore.
Practical Info
The Boab Prison Tree sits 4.3 miles (7 km) south of Derby, on the King River Road, and is protected by a fence. Visitors are requested to remain away from the tree in respect to the cultural significance of the tree and to protect it.
Address: Derby, WA, Australia, Australia
From $ 199
Bethells Beach
When it comes to the beaches surrounding Auckland, there are really only two kinds: The white sand stretches of the Hauraki Gulf that face the city skyline, and the wildly scenic, black sand beaches of Auckland’s moody West Coast. Bethell’s Beach is one of the latter, where tempestuous storms off the Tasman Sea have carved a landscape ruggedly dotted with cliffs, sand dunes, and caves. Surfers flock to the vast stretch of sand for the pounding offshore waves, while fisherman scale the slippery rocks to cast their reels to the sea. Since the currents often make swimming unsafe, most beachgoers opt instead to swim in Lake Waimanu, which is accessed via a 30-minute hike leading back through the dunes.
Other hikes include Te Henga Walkway, which weaves for nearly five miles north towards Muriwai Beach. Fom the top of the bluffs, visitors are met with sweeping views of Bethell’s Beach below, as well as the Waitakere Ranges that rise behind the coast.
Other hikes include Te Henga Walkway, which weaves for nearly five miles north towards Muriwai Beach. Fom the top of the bluffs, visitors are met with sweeping views of Bethell’s Beach below, as well as the Waitakere Ranges that rise behind the coast.
Practical Info
Bethell’s Beach is located 27 miles and 40 minutes west of Auckland. The beach is located north of Piha south of Muriwai Beach, and is popular with locals on warm weekends—particularly during the summer.
Address: New Zealand
From $ 141
Boranup Karri Forest
A pocket of wilderness stretching along Australia’s southwestern coast, the Boranup Karri Forest is one of the main natural attractions of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. A historic land belonging to the ancient Wardandi tribe, today the Boranup Forest is best known as a recreational area, with a network of walking trails, a number of karst caves, a forest maze and a camping area.
The most notable attraction of Boranup is its native Karri trees, pale-barked trees that can reach heights of over 60-meters, making them among the tallest in the world. As well as admiring the unique trees, bushwalkers can spot an array of wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, a wide variety of exotic birds and a colourful array of wildflowers during the summer months.
Practical Info
Boranup Karri Forest is located on the coast of Western Australia, around 300km southwest of Perth.
Address: Caves Road, Margaret River, Western Australia 6285, Australia
From $ 110
Birdworld Kuranda
Queensland's lush, tropical north is alive with colorful bird life, and you can experience the festive cacophony of chirps on a visit to Birdworld Kuranda. Over 60 different species of birds make their home in this enclave of forest and waterfalls, and the landscape is built to mimic the surroundings the birds would find in the wild. When walking the open-air aviary, there’s the chance a bird could simply fly up and land on your shoulder, or a curious parrot might cock its head sideways and inspect you while sitting on a tree branch. Visitors also have the chance to hand-feed birds under the supervision of the aviary staff. Keep an eye out to spot Amazonian macaws, kingfishers, and Australian black swans.
Practical Info
Birdworld Kuranda is located near the Heritage Markets in Kuranda. It is a 40-minute drive from Cairns, though most visitors prefer to come via the Kuranda Scenic Rail or Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. There is a free shuttle bus to the Kuranda Skyrail station, and you can combine the visit with Kuranda Koala Gardens, which is located right next door. The aviary is open from 9am to 4pm every day, with guided tours at 11:15am. The price of admission is $18 for adults and $9 for children ages four to 15. Birdworld Kuranda is wheelchair accessible.
Staff-led talks at 11:30am offer more insight on the birds, and you’re allowed to bring in your own camera to shoot photos of birds in the treetops.
Address: Heritage Markets, Rob Veivers Drive, Kuranda, Queensland 4881, Australia
Hours: 9am–4pm daily
Admission: Adult: $18; Child (yrs 4-15): $9
From $ 24
Bonnet Island
Tiny Bonnet Island sits at the mouth of Macquarie Harbour in Tasmania. Having just been opened to tourists since 2009, it’s a still a relatively undiscovered location that once served as a tiny, remote outpost, home to resilient lighthouse keepers and their families. The lighthouse that sits on its shore was once integral to ensuring the safety of ships into the harbour.
However, the island was still the site of many shipwrecks, relics of which can be seen today. In addition to those ruins, there is also an abundance of wildlife. Cruises to the island run regularly and serve as the only way of public access. A colony of little penguins (the world’s smallest) has made its home here, and short-tailed shearwaters are also regularly seen on Bonnet Island during their migration.
Practical Info
Bonnet Island sits in the narrow mouth of Macquarie Harbour. It is currently only accessible by tours that focus on the wildlife and teach visitors about the history of the island. Tours run from the town of Strahan on the East Coast, approximately 185 miles (300 km), or a four-hour drive, from Hobart.
Address: Macquarie Harbour, Strahan, Tasmania, Australia
From $ 74
Behana Gorge Waterfall
When it comes to popular activities in Cairns, it’s the snorkeling, scuba diving, and Great Barrier Reef that often draw the most attention. Here at Behana Gorge waterfall, however, it’s obvious that Cairns has far more to offer than simply what’s out in the ocean. Once only known to Queensland locals, Behana Gorge has recently become a popular spot for visitors, who travel 35 minutes from Cairns to swim in the pools and splash in the water beneath the tumbling falls. The hike, however, is not for the timid, and a moderate degree of fitness is required to reach the falls at the end. Though the one-way distance is only 2 miles, expect to spend at least an hour on the steep, uphill trail, where the reward is the chance to swim beneath the falls and splash in the crystalline waters—enjoying a hidden corner of Cairns that very few visitors see.
Practical Info
The trailhead is located at the very end of rural Behana Gorge Road. When visiting in summer it’s best to start early to avoid the midday heat, and while jumping from rocks is extremely popular, be sure to use care on the slippery rocks and clambering around the banks.
Did You Know? While hiking up to the waterfall is a free, you can see even more of Behana Gorge on a guided canyoning tour, where you walk down the walls of Behana Gorge and get to approach the famous falls on a route that’s packed with adrenaline.
Address: Behana Gorge Road, Gordonvale, Queensland, Australia
From $ 133
Berrima
Located in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, the historic village of Berrima is a welcoming destination for visitors looking to experience the charms of small-town Australia. It boasts Georgian sandstone buildings, historic pubs, vineyards, local shops, small boutiques, and a variety of accommodation options.
The Basics
Berrima is often visited on full-day tours to Canberra from Sydney, but also makes a worthy destination on its own. Visitors enjoy browsing for Australian-made alpaca products, touring vineyards, and visiting local food shops for homemade jams and gourmet items. There’s also a heritage walk highlighting Berrima’s historic sandstone architecture, and a gallery showcasing and selling local art.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The town is about a 90-minute drive from Canberra or Sydney.
- There are wide ranging dining options in the village from casual to fine dining.
- Berrima is located near the Wingecarribee River and has popular walking trails along the water.
- The town hosts events like meditation retreats; check its website for up-to-date information.
How to Get There
Located right between Sydney and Canberra, Berrima is reachable by car or by a combination of train and bus. The journey from Sydney takes about 90 minutes by car or just over three hours by public transportation.
When to Get There
Berrima has a relatively mild climate with summer high temperatures reaching 77°F (25°C) and lows in the winter reaching about 50°F (11°C). Visitors can enjoy nature walks and hikes year-round with outdoor dining options in the summer months and cozy fireside experiences in colder weather.
Berrima Courthouse Museum
Built in 1839, the Berrima courthouse is steeped in Australia’s convict past, but the Greek Revival building has a rich history of its own, housing German prisoners of war during World War II. The courthouse has since been carefully restored, and turned into a museum offering daily self-guided and guided tours. Visitors can watch a 18-minute historical presentation in the Captain Starlight Theatrette, or a daily theatrical production in the courtroom titled Treachery, Treason, and Murder, which recounts a famous trial held there in the 1840s.
Address: NSW, Australia 2577, Australia
From $ 140
Belongil Beach
Known for having several diverse sections – a dog-friendly beach area, an area containing great surf thanks to The Wreck, and a nude-friendly area – Belongil Beach satisfies the needs of many beach goers in Byron Bay. The popular coastline stretches for 2.5km to the north of Byron Bay's Main Beach, all the way up to the Belongil Creek mouth.
Dog owners are free to take their four-footed friends in the section of Belongil Beach spanning from the Main Beach car park to Manfred Street, which is great for exercise, for both man and beast.
On the opposite end of the beach, up north near the Belongil Creek mouth, gathers individuals who prefer to take their beach experience in the nude. Although not officially legal, this area of Belongil is well-known for naturist spirits to run free, so be aware.
On the southern end of the beach lies The Wreck. The SS Wollongbar sunk here in a cyclone back in 1922 and continues to sit just 30 meters off-shore. While The Wreck makes for a perfect snorkel exploration in calmer waters, the main benefit of this sunken ship would be the surf break it creates.
Visitors that just prefer a good swim will do better in the beach's southern shores.
Dog owners are free to take their four-footed friends in the section of Belongil Beach spanning from the Main Beach car park to Manfred Street, which is great for exercise, for both man and beast.
On the opposite end of the beach, up north near the Belongil Creek mouth, gathers individuals who prefer to take their beach experience in the nude. Although not officially legal, this area of Belongil is well-known for naturist spirits to run free, so be aware.
On the southern end of the beach lies The Wreck. The SS Wollongbar sunk here in a cyclone back in 1922 and continues to sit just 30 meters off-shore. While The Wreck makes for a perfect snorkel exploration in calmer waters, the main benefit of this sunken ship would be the surf break it creates.
Visitors that just prefer a good swim will do better in the beach's southern shores.
Practical Info
Belongil Beach is easily reached by a 20 minute walk from Byron's Main Beach, or by car. A 50-space car park is available for visitors.
Address: Belongil Beach, Byron Bay, NSW, Australia
Admission: Parking Lot Fee: $7 per day
From $ 44
Bondi to Coogee Beach Coastal Walk
Often referred to as one of the world’s most scenic coastal walkways, the trail between Coogee and Bondi Beach is the best day hike in Sydney. Starting at famous Bondi Beach—the iconic hangout of lifesavers, surfers and international travelers—the trail begins by the oceanfront pool on the southern end of the beach.
Only a few minutes into the walk, an ancient Aboriginal rock carving is visible on the left side of the trail. In 10 more minutes, the trail emerges onto Tamarama Beach, which is cheekily referred to as “Glamarama” for the attractive crowds. More family friendly is Bronte Beach, which is the next stop in the trail's procession of world-class, white-sand beaches. In addition to the playgrounds, barbecue pits and large grassy park area, Bronte has two natural pools that are perfect for a dip in the ocean.
Past Bronte Beach and the surfers bobbing offshore, the trail continues on to Clovelly Beach and its protected waters for snorkeling. Around the rocky coastal headlands—where it's possible to see whales in spring—the trail descends into Gordon's Bay with its underwater nature trail for divers. Finally, having already experienced five of Sydney's best suburban beach towns, hikers finish at Coogee Bay's popular stretch of sand.
Practical Info
The Bondi to Coogee Beach Coastal Walk takes most hikers about 90 minutes if they walk continuously without stopping. One of the perks of the trail, however, is stopping to swim in the protected waters or stopping in for lunch at a coastal café. Pubs, restaurants and public restrooms are available along the trail. To get back to the start of the trail in Bondi, travelers can take the local bus or simply turn right back around to get a second look at the beaches along the way.
Address: Bondi Beach, Sydney NSW 2026, Australia
From $ 44
Bell Gorge
Usually places in the middle of the desert are quiet, dry, and remote. In the case of Australia’s Bell Gorge, however, crowds of people flock to the Kimberley to witness a gorgeous, multi-tiered waterfall go splashing down into a pool. Perfectly placed amidst amber-hued sandstone, the Bell Gorge waterfall is fed by rains that fall in the Kimberley’s wet season, and offers a picturesque place to cool off and go for for a swim when it’s dry.
Take a moment to sprawl on the rocks surrounding the crystal cascade, and close your eyes as you soak up the sun and enjoy the rush of the falls. When you’ve worked up a sweat from sun tanning or hiking, a large, refreshing pool of fresh water sits right at the base of the falls—which when viewed against the rugged, dry landscape are an unforgettable sight. It’s little wonder why Bell Gorge is immensely popular with photographers, who camp at nearby Silent Grove Campground, sleeping out under the stars, before waking up early to hike through the gorge and enjoy the spectacular show.
Insider's Tip: If the crowds at Bell Gorge are simply too intense, follow the river away from the waterfall and you’ll have the gorge to yourself.
Practical Info
The turnoff for Bell Gorge is along the Gibb River Road, and then 18 miles down Silent Grove Road. The area can become very crowded with visitors, so early morning and late in the day are best for avoiding the crowds.
Multi-day tours of the Kimberley region make it easy to visit the Bell Gorge area, which requires 4WD. The best season for visiting is from May-September, and the Gorge is a 3-hour drive from Darby. When hiking to the falls, be sure to bring hiking shoes and plenty of water.
Address: King Leopold Ranges, Western Australia 6728, Australia
From $ 875
Black Pearl Museum
One of Papeete’s few museums, the Musée de la Perle (or Black Pearl Museum) celebrates all aspects of pearl culture. In the days before large-scale cultivation, these ocean jewels were charged with mystical significance, associated with religious rites and coveted as status symbols. The museum, established by local entrepreneur Robert Wan, looks at the pearl in art, history and literature, and shows how they get from the sea to the display case.
The real star here is the black pearl. While a little more abundant than in the days when Mary, Queen of Scots adorned herself with a priceless necklace of the dark sea bounty, this Tahitian specialty is still a sought-after rarity.
Practical Info
The Musée de la Perle is a stone’s throw from Papeete’s waterfront, close to the Marché de Papeete and the cathedral. There are numerous stores in the area where you can buy your own black pearls.
Address: Boulevard Pomare, Papeete, French Polynesia
Hours: Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm (Last entry at 4:45pm). Closed Sundays
Admission: BP 850
From $ 50
Block Arcade
The Block Arcade is a heritage-shopping arcade that was built in the late 1800s. Restored to its original glory, the arcade still features its original mosaic tiled flooring, glass canopied ceiling and wrought iron and carved stone finishes.
In conjunction with Melbourne’s Royal Arcade, The Block Arcade forms part of the city’s Golden Mile heritage walk that cuts through the center of the CBD and offers a unique shopping experience.
Much loved shops within the arcade include the popular Hopetoun Tea Rooms (Melbourne’s original spot for high tea and still home to the city’s most drool-worthy window display!), Dafel Dolls & Bears toy shop and Haigh’s Chocolates.
You can enter The Block Arcade from its official entrance on Collins Street or via Elizabeth Street (west) or the pedestrian laneway off Little Collins Street.
In conjunction with Melbourne’s Royal Arcade, The Block Arcade forms part of the city’s Golden Mile heritage walk that cuts through the center of the CBD and offers a unique shopping experience.
Much loved shops within the arcade include the popular Hopetoun Tea Rooms (Melbourne’s original spot for high tea and still home to the city’s most drool-worthy window display!), Dafel Dolls & Bears toy shop and Haigh’s Chocolates.
You can enter The Block Arcade from its official entrance on Collins Street or via Elizabeth Street (west) or the pedestrian laneway off Little Collins Street.
Address: Shop 23/282 Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
From $ 51
Beagle Bay
A rare and intriguing insight into the remote Aboriginal communities of the north, Beagle Bay was a Catholic mission started by French monks in the late 1800s.
The mission was used as a home for Aboriginal kids separated from their families and is now run by those kids. It offers an insight into a troubled time in Australia's past but also a chance to learn about the Nyul Nyul people who have inhabited this beautiful and unforgiving landscape for thousands of years.
The mission was used as a home for Aboriginal kids separated from their families and is now run by those kids. It offers an insight into a troubled time in Australia's past but also a chance to learn about the Nyul Nyul people who have inhabited this beautiful and unforgiving landscape for thousands of years.
One of the highlights is the Sacred Heart Church which was built by hand by the monks and Aboriginal people and has an altar made out of local mother of pearl.
Practical Info
Beagle Bay community is situated on the Dampier Peninsula north of Broome and is a two- to three-hour drive from Broome best undertaken in a 4x4 or as part of an organized tour. In the wet season (November to March) the roads are closed and access is not possible.
Address: Beagle Bay Road, Australia
Hours: Closed Nov - Mar
From $ 207
Belvedere Lookout
Belvedere Lookout is a scenic viewpoint awarding views of Cook's Bay, Opunohu Bay, Mount Rotui and the fertile Opunohu Valley with its many pineapple plants, craggy peaks and gentle slopes. There are many ways to reach the top -- uphill hiking, ATV, scooter or car -- as there is a road leading to the lookout. That being said, now that it is more accessible it is also more crowded, meaning you should allow yourself adequate time for photo snapping. The most popular time to visit is at sunset at around 5:30pm, where you can see the sky and landscape illuminated by a rainbow backdrop of reds, pinks, yellow, oranges and purples. At the top there is a small snack, beverage and souvenir stand. And if you're still feeling energetic, you can access waterfall and nature treks from the top.
There are two roads leading to Belvedere Lookout, depending on whether you're going from Cook's Bay or Opunohu Bay. While Cook's Bay will take you through pineapple fields and lush vegetation, Opunohu Bay will bring you through Moorea's natural preserve as well as stop at the local Agricultural School for some fresh juice and sorbet and jam tastings.
There are two roads leading to Belvedere Lookout, depending on whether you're going from Cook's Bay or Opunohu Bay. While Cook's Bay will take you through pineapple fields and lush vegetation, Opunohu Bay will bring you through Moorea's natural preserve as well as stop at the local Agricultural School for some fresh juice and sorbet and jam tastings.
Address: Overlooking Cook and Opunohu Bays, French Polynesia
From $ 47