drive the great ocean road
You can opt to take a tour or rent a car for more flexibility to experience this rugged coastline a short drive from Melbourne. You must see the Twelve Apostles and make sure to check out wild koalas in the eucalyptus trees.
Snorkel or Dive the Great Barrier Reef
If you like to snorkel or dive this is the epitome of the best places you must check out. It is the largest coral reef system in the world and is the most popular attraction in Australia. You can catch tours out of Cairns.
enjoy the wildlife
Who isn’t excited about seeing kangaroos, koalas, wombats, dingoes, and more? There are places to see these animals in the wild and sanctuaries all over the place where you can visit, feed, or pet the animals.
Surfing
Australia is well known for surfing and there are tons of great places to do it! Byron Bay, Gold Coast, Bondi Beach, or Noosa Heads.
roam the laneways of melbourne
Get lost in the well-known laneways and incredible street art. This city boasts some incredible coffee so you will have to check that out. This city has a hip vibe and is filled with fantastic restaurants, parks, and museums.
visit Fraser island
This island on the eastern coast in Queensland is a World-Heritage site for good reason. Rainforests, sand dunes, iconic crystal blue lakes and beautiful beaches will captivate your attention. You can also check out the shipwreck of the S.S. Maheno while there.
explore whitsundays
From Airlie Beach, you can head out to this archipelago of 74 tropical islands located 55 kms (34 miles) off the Queensland coast. It’s pure white sands of Whitehaven Beach are remarkable. Boating, sailing, snorkeling, swimming, and diving this area are exceptional.
take in Sydney
No trip to Australia is complete without visiting this amazing city. While here you cannot miss the infamous Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbor Bridge, Royal Botanic Garden, or some of the local beaches including Manly and Bondi Beach.
relax in byron bay
If you are a hippie, you’ll love it, if you’re not you’ll love it too! This backpacker and laid-back atmosphere coastal town is packed with beautiful beaches and cool artisan markets. It’s a great place for surfing! While here check out Cape Byron Lighthouse, whale watching tours, The Farm, and more.
visit a winery (or two)
Australian wines are famous around the world. Some of the best wine regions to check out include Yarra Valley, Barossa Valley, Hunter Valley, Coonawarra and Margaret River.
Ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail
This World-Heritage Rainforest is an incredible day trip from Cairns. You can soar above the trees on the Skyrail and take the railway home. On the train ride you will stop at the Barron Falls.
Watch the sunset in 1770- Agnes Water
It is one of the only places in Queensland where you can watch sunset over the water. This little town is considered the birthplace of Queensland as it was founded when James Cook made his second landfall in Australia and first in Queensland. You can also swim or learn to surf at Agnes Beach.
go to a footy game
Australian Rules Football (also known as footy) is a fast-paced physical sport that is a blend of rugby, soccer, and football. It is incredibly popular in Australia and for good reason. The games are packed with festive fans and you will not be disappointed even if you barely know the rules.
eat, drink and be merry
You will be met with incredibly kind and relaxed people who know a thing or two about making the most out of life. You will definitely have your fair share of meat pies, fish and chips, burgers. You will also have to try Tim Tams (many times) and the Vegemite (just once). It won’t be challenging to find amazing nightlife and bars, but Melbourne and Sydney boast the best clubs. If you prefer more relaxed setting you will always be able to find a local bar.
