From sunset watching on Bondi Beach and island hopping around Tasmania to hanging out with quokkas on Rottnest Island, entering the incredible underwater universe of the Great Barrier Reef, and relaxing in scenic Hamilton Island, there is something for everyone planning a beach and island escape to Australia. Whether you're a nature lover, adventurer, or looking for an idyllic getaway, Australia will delight your senses and leave you wanting for more. Here are just five of the top beach and island destinations in the country.
New South Wales
NSW is any beachgoer's delight. Bondi Beach offers excellent snorkelling and surfing. Catch the stunning sunset at Ben Buckler Point and embark on a scenic walk from Bondi to Coogee. Go further north to Newcastle Beach, a popular spot for surfing. Visit Lord Howe Island and snorkel or dive in its coral-rich waters or feed the fish at Ned's Beach.
Melbourne
Melbourne is a multicultural metropolis and a great beach destination. Enjoy swimming, windsurfing, and jet skiing in St. Kilda Beach, and watch the penguins at St. Kilda Pier. At Torquay, which is located at the start of the Great Ocean Road, you can surf at the popular surf breaks Point Impossible and Torquay Back Beach.
Queensland
The sunny state is the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, with many nearby islands and a multitude of activities on offer. Discover spectacular corals and exquisite tropical fish on snorkelling adventures near the Great Barrier Reef. Visit Kuranda Island and immerse in its pristine rainforest, majestic Barron Falls, and incredible wildlife sanctuaries. Take a guided 4WD safari to Fraser Island, the world's largest sand island, to see its shipwrecks and coloured sands.
Tasmania
Tasmania is renowned for its untouched beauty and wildlife, much of which is endemic. The sea water temperatures of Tasmania's beaches are cooler compared to other parts of Australia, but they are perfect for strolling or hiking the wilderness nearby. Coles Bay is a gateway to the Freycinet National Park. It is a great secluded getaway where you can enjoy beach walks, boating, and fishing. Freycinet is known for its pure white beaches, azure bays, hiking trails, and the gorgeous Wineglass Bay.
Eyre Peninsula
As far as beach and island vacations in Australia go, Eyre Peninsula is as picturesque as it is exciting. It is blessed with a diverse landscape of beautiful beaches, rugged mountains, and vast farmlands. Apart from lazing on its endless string of beaches, you can snorkel with sea lions, cruise along a deserted beach in a 4WD, or embark on an exhilarating shark cage diving adventure.
Goway's Australia beach vacation itineraries include popular attractions and some destinations off the beaten track. Travel ideas can be adjusted to your requirements.
What do the experts say?
Tasmania is under the radar for many travelers, but it’s great for hikes, natural landscapes and now modern art!
Sydney and Melbourne are a great combination for first-time visitors to Australia, with Brisbane, Adelaide and/or the Outback added in, depending on how much time you have. Returnees should take in Perth, Darwin and the Kakadu National Park area and/or Tasmania if they can, plus spend some time in the cities they loved the first time around
It might sound cliche, but you really can visit year-round. Australia is a big country, so there is always somewhere with amazing weather!
Goway’s trips to Australia are not stock itineraries. We can put together trips of a few weeks or a few months, allowing you to see as much of the land Downunder as you can. And we offer a mix of travel options, from self-drives to train journeys to long stays.
Goway has partnerships with many unique inns and hotels in Australia. Among the most memorable are Qualia on Hamilton Island, Longitude 131 at Uluru and Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island.
Unlock more by subscribing to our newsletter.
With our newsletter, you’ll get access to regular communications that inspire you and help you explore the world your way.