There are a wide variety of relaxing activities to try in Australia. From a camel ride on the famous Cable Beach at sunset to seeing dolphins in Port Douglas and exploring the giant sand dunes at Hervey Bay, there’s something for everyone.
Those looking for more adventure can check out Kakadu National Park and visit Ayer’s Rock, the world’s biggest monolith.
1. Cradle Mountain
Cradle Mountain is the most famous hiking destination in Tasmania. The Overland Track is an epic trek that takes experienced hikers 6.5 hours to complete.
Hike the trails at dawn to have the park to yourself before the crowds arrive. Take the Enchanted Walk and King Billy Walk for a chance to see Bennett’s wallabies and Tasmanian pademelons.
Visit the wilderness art gallery at Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge to view stunning photography of the Cradle Mountain landscapes. Then grab pizza and a glass of wine at the Tavern Bar.
2. Jervis Bay
Jervis Bay is a beach paradise that boasts bright sand beaches, sea cliffs and lots of nature reserves. It is also a great spot for water-based activities and whale watching.
Beach lovers can stroll along the White Sands Walk which runs through Murrays, Chinamans and Nelsons beaches. Those looking for more thrills can enjoy snorkeling and sailing in the waters.
For history enthusiasts, the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum showcases the area’s rich maritime heritage while the Point Perpendicular Lighthouse is another landmark to visit. Jervis Bay is less than three hours drive from Sydney, making it an easy weekend getaway from the city.
3. Blue Mountains National Park
Australia may be known for its heart-pumping adventure activities, but the country also offers a wide range of relaxing experiences. Soak in hot spring pools, enjoy a spa day or take it easy on a boat cruise.
Explore the Blue Mountains National Park, home of the famous Three Sisters rock formation. Discover Aboriginal history, hike to tumbling waterfalls and picnic in parks with far-reaching vistas of ancient escarpments and forest-clad valleys. The Blue Mountains are easily accessible from Sydney.
4. Wine Country
Discover the enchanting world of Australian wine in the country’s picturesque vineyards. From elegant cabernet sauvignon to age-worthy chardonnay, Australia’s cool climate vineyards produce some of the nation’s best wines.
The Hunter Valley, only a short two-hour drive from Sydney, is home to some of the oldest wineries in the country. Here you can sample wines paired with world-class cuisine.
5. Sydney Harbour
Sydney Harbour is a stunner with its iconic bridge and Opera House, beautiful beaches, houses, suburbs and cliffs. Take in the scenery on a sightseeing cruise or test your skills on a fishing tour.
For a cultural day out, visit the Australian Museum. This vast building is packed with fascinating exhibits on culture, wildlife and art.
The Rocks area is home to independent shops, market stalls and quaint cafes and tearooms. Here, you’ll find artisan souvenirs and organic produce.
6. Sky Diving
Embark on an exhilarating sky diving adventure in Cairns and witness the tropical landscape from above. This activity includes a tandem jump with an instructor, and you’ll fall freely from 15,000 feet for up to 60 seconds before floating back to the ground by parachute.
Feel the adrenaline rush as you skydive over Byron Bay during this small-group experience. Strapped to an experienced instructor, freefall from up to 15,000 feet before the parachute opens and glides you down to a sandy beach.
7. Figure 8 Pools
The beautiful rock pools shaped like a figure of eight are an incredible natural wonder in the wild section of Sydney’s Royal National Park. It’s a popular spot for Instagrammers, but there have been several accidents and deaths at the pools because people ignore the warnings to visit only when it is safe.
Take a guided tour with Mate Tours to safely traverse the infamous Figure 8 Pools on the coastal track, accompanied by an expert guide. They assess the ocean conditions each week and will advise if the pools are safe to visit on your day.
8. Lake Hillier
Located on Middle Island in the Recherche Archipelago in Western Australia, the world-famous pink lake gets its rosy hue from high concentrations of salt-tolerant Dunaliella salina algae. Its contrasting color with the blue ocean makes for an incredible sight.
Its strawberry milkshake-colored beauty has baffled scientists for years and is now protected as a reserve, meaning tourists can only visit under certain conditions. While it is safe to swim in, drinking the hypersaline water is discouraged.