Australia is a continent of contrasts, offering everything from ancient spiritual sites to world-class city culture. If you’re planning your trip, here are the seven absolute must-do experiences that should top your list.
1. Snorkel or Dive the Great Barrier Reef
You simply cannot visit Australia without experiencing this natural wonder. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeler, the vibrant underwater world of the Outer Reef near Cairns or Port Douglas is breathtaking.
- Tip: Book a day trip to the Outer Reef for the best visibility and most diverse marine life. Seeing the colors of the coral and swimming next to sea turtles is a lifetime memory.
2. Witness the Magic of Uluru
Located in the spiritual heart of the Red Centre, watching the colossal Uluru (Ayers Rock) change colors at sunrise or sunset is a profound, almost spiritual experience. The scale and silence of the outback are humbling.
- Tip: Give yourself at least two nights in the area to explore the nearby rock formations of Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) as well, which are just as spectacular.
3. Walk the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Path
This is the quintessential Sydney experience. This stunning 6km walk takes you along the rugged coastline, past beautiful beaches, dramatic cliffs, and iconic ocean pools (like Icebergs at Bondi).
- Must-Do: Reward yourself with a classic beachside “fish and chips” lunch when you finish the walk.
4. Explore Melbourne’s Hidden Laneways
Melbourne is the cultural and coffee capital, and its heart lies in its hidden laneways. Spend an afternoon getting delightfully lost, discovering world-class street art (like in Hosier Lane) and popping into tiny, bustling cafés for the perfect flat white.
- Tip: The atmosphere is completely different in the morning (coffee rush) versus the evening (tapas and hidden bars). Try both!
5. Drive the Spectacular Great Ocean Road
Rent a car and spend a full day driving the start of the Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives. The ultimate reward is seeing the dramatic limestone stacks of the Twelve Apostles rising out of the Southern Ocean.
- Warning: It’s a long day trip from Melbourne, but the views are absolutely worth the early start.
6. Take a Hike in the Blue Mountains
Just a couple of hours west of Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer vast canyons, eucalyptus forests, and deep ravines. The main attraction is the Three Sisters rock formation, which you can view from Echo Point.
- Activity: Take one of the easy walking trails around the lookout points to truly appreciate the scale of the landscape and the blue haze that gives the mountains their name.
7. Go 4WDing on K’gari (Fraser Island)
The largest sand island in the world, K’gari (formerly Fraser Island) in Queensland is an epic adventure playground. You can drive 4WD vehicles right along the 75 Mile Beach highway and swim in stunningly clear freshwater lakes like Lake McKenzie.
- Experience: This is the perfect blend of beach and wilderness—keep an eye out for native dingoes!
