Known for its breathtaking beaches, unique and beautiful wildlife, and stunning diversity of landscapes, the country of Australia is one of the most incredible countries to visit. Whether you are looking to have an adventure in the Australian Outback, tour one of the country’s incredible cities, visit the quaint Australian wine country, or explore one of Australia’s many incredible beaches, you are certain to have the trip of a lifetime when visiting Australia. If you are thinking about planning a trip and are wondering what things to see when visiting Australia, you have come to the right place.
In this article, I am going to outline the top 40 things to see when visiting Australia. This includes the country’s many wonderful wildlife destinations, one of the world’s most beautiful stretches of coastline, many of Australia’s top national parklands, and some of the most beautiful rainforests on Earth. So, before you start to plan that trip to Australia, make sure you check out my recommendations for the country’s top can’t-miss spots so that you don’t miss out on an adventure you wish you had!
Map of the Things to See When Visiting Australia
40. Darling Harbour
Located adjacent to the city of Sydney in New South Wales, the Darling Harbour is made up of one of the largest recreational and entertainment precincts in Australia. Visitors to the Harbour are treated to a wide array of restaurants, shops, the incredible SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, and a chance to see koalas up close at the WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo.
39. Grampians National Park
When it comes to things to see when visiting Australia, there is no question that the country’s many wonderful national parks should be near the top of the list. One of the more underrated national parklands in Australia is the incredible Grampians National Park in Victoria.
This nature reserve is known for its beautiful sandstone mountains, breathtaking wildflowers, and amazing wildlife. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of echidnas and wallabies. The park is also renowned for its Aboriginal history and rock art and superb hiking trails and lookout vistas.
38. Jenolan Caves
If you love to explore caves, then the Jenolan Caves near the Blue Mountains in New South Whales will undoubtedly be near the top of the list of things to see when visiting Australia. These caves are the most famous caves in Australia and are the oldest cave system in the world.
There are a variety of different tours available at the caves, including a grand tour, a fossil hunting tour, and a plughole tour that involves navigating thru the cave system with a guide using nothing more than a headlamp and determination to squeeze your way thru the cave system. So, if you are in for a little adventure when you visit Australia, the Jenolan Caves may be just what you are looking for.
37. Cottesloe Beach
If there is one thing that Australia is not in short supply of, it is incredible beaches. And if you are visiting Western Australia, few beaches are more beautiful and renowned than the incredible Cottesloe Beach near the city of Perth.
The beach’s soft white sand, reputation for being a great swimming and snorkeling spot, and the wealth of dining and entertainment in the vicinity make it one of the country’s top beach destinations. So, if you are in the mood to get out on the water during your stay in Australia, or just want to enjoy a beautiful sunset with a nice glass of wine, the amazing Cottesloe Beach is a great destination to have on your itinerary.
36. Springbrook National Park
For national park enthusiasts, there are many spots on my list of the top things to see when visiting Australia that will pique your interest. Perhaps few more so than the wonderful Springbrook National Park, located near the city of Brisbane in Queensland on Australia’s Gold Coast.
Spectacular waterfalls, ancient forests, lush rainforests, and some of the most beautiful vistas you will find in Australia are hallmarks of this incredible park. So, if getting out on a hiking trail in one of Australia’s most beautiful parklands sounds like your kind of adventure, make sure you plan a stop at Springbrook National Park during your visit.
35. Noosa National Park
If you love breathtaking coastlines, then you are going to love checking out the stunning Noosa National Park in Queensland. Located roughly 121 km north of Brisbane, the park is situated near the renowned Noosa Heads on the Sunshine Coast and extends south towards Lake Weyba.
The park is popular for its spectacular coastline, incredible wildlife, and for having some of the country’s most beautiful eucalypt forest and dense rainforest. It’s a great place to drive down the coastline to admire the views, look for wildlife, and enjoy a beautiful sunrise or sunset. For travelers planning to visit Brisbane, the incredible Noosa National Park is a must-see destination.
34. Litchfield National Park
While Australia has its share of big, beautiful cities, it also has more than its share of remote wilderness areas that are notoriously breathtaking. For visitors who plan to tour the Northern Territory of Australia, one such wilderness area that shouldn’t be missed is the gorgeous Litchfield National Park.
Located near the township of Batchelor, which is about 100 km southwest of Darwin, the park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls, crystal clear pools, and weathered sandstone pillars. The parkland is considered to be sacred to Australia’s Aboriginal people and learning about their incredible history in the area is another highlight of visiting.
So, if you are visiting Darwin and are looking for an incredible destination to add to your itinerary, make sure you consider the wonderful Litchfield National Park.
33. Mount Field National Park
No list of the top things to see when visiting Australia would be complete without mentioning some of the top attractions on the island of Tasmania. Located 240 kilometers to the south of the Australian mainland, this island state has some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife.
One of the top spots to visit in Tasmania is the incredible Mount Field National Park. An easy drive from the city of Hobart, Mount Field National Park is renowned for its beautiful mountain vistas, stunning glacial lakes, tiered waterfalls, and forests of beautiful swamp gum trees.
These trees are the tallest in Australia and can grow to be up to 100 meters in height. This makes them the send tallest flowering plants in the world. So, if you are planning a stop in Tasmania during your trip to Australia, make sure you check out the incredible Mount Field National Park.
32. Kalbarri National Park
Western Australia is big and beautiful and so are its national parks. If you are wondering about the top things to see when visiting Australia, you would be remiss if you didn’t explore this beautiful part of the country and its incredible parklands.
One of the most breathtaking of Western Australia’s parks is the incredible Kalbarri National Park. While the park is a great spot to go sightseeing, picnicking, abseiling, rafting, and hiking, one of its biggest attractions is the amazing Kalbarri Skywalk.
Jutting over the gorge, the views of the landscape, including coastal cliffs that plunge over 100 meters to the ocean are simply breathtaking. For any traveler who loves being in nature and enjoying beautiful views, the wonderful Kalbarri National Park in Australia’s Northern Territory is a must-see.
31. Watarrka National Park
Another can’t-miss spot when visiting the Northern Territory of Australia is the beautiful Watarrka National Park. Located within the traditional lands of the Matutjara people, the park is jointly managed by the local traditional owners and the Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory.
This partnership is essential in preserving one of Australia’s most important cultural and historical lands. In addition to its rich cultural history, the parkland is also renowned for its rugged ranges, breathtaking gorges, and amazing wildlife.
One of the most popular activities for visitors to the park is hiking the notorious Kings Canyon Rim Walk, which offers absolutely breathtaking views of one of the park’s most incredible canyons. One thing is for certain, a stop at Watarrka National Park is certain to create experiences and memories that will last for a lifetime.
30. Barossa Valley
If you are a wine lover, then the Barossa Valley northeast of Adelaide is undoubtedly one of the top things to see when visiting Australia. Encompassing the towns of Tanunda, Angaston, Nuriootpa, and others, the valley offers a wide array of high-profile winery tours and tastings to enjoy.
The local specialty of the region is Shiraz, but you can find a variety of other wines in the valley as well. On top of all the great wine to taste, the valley is also home to an assortment of 19th-century German churches and cottages in the area as well. These historical buildings add to the character and mystique of the valley and make it even that much more fun to tour.
29. The Australia Zoo
Made famous by Steve Irwin, the legendary Crocodile Hunter, the Australia Zoo has been delighting visitors to Australia for decades. Located just an hour outside the city of Brisbane on Australia’s Sunshine Coast, the zoo is still owned and operated by the Irwin family.
Not only is it one of Australia’s biggest tourist attractions, but it is also widely considered to be one of the world’s premier zoos. The wide array of wildlife and activities available is certain to delight the whole family. For those who are planning to visit the Sunshine Coast, I would consider a stop at the infamous Australia Zoo.
28. Great Otway National Park
Located in southern Victoria, not only is the Great Otway National Park one of Australia’s most beautiful national parks, but it is also one of the top things to see when visiting Australia. The park includes an expanse of rugged coastland, beautiful beaches, and the incredible Otway Mountain range.
There are a number of stunning waterfalls that are accessible by trail within the park, including the renowned Triplet Falls. This beautiful waterfall is made up of three cascading falls in one. However, the park is most famous for its beautiful temperate rainforest and old-growth trees.
If you are visiting Melbourne, the Great Otway National Park is one stop on the Great Ocean Road. This is one of the world’s premier scenic coastal roads and is a must-see attraction.
27. Karijini National Park
When it comes to the top things to see when visiting Australia, there are few things as unique and beautiful as the amazing Karijini National Park in the Hamersley Range of Western Australia. The park has a wide diversity of landscapes, and each seems to be more beautiful than the next.
In the northern part of the park, the Oxer Lookout gives visitors breathtaking views of the Weano, Red, Hancock, and Joffre gorges. These red rock gorges are very reminiscent of the breathtaking canyons of Southern Utah in the United States.
To the east, you will find the red rocks of Dales Gorge and the cascades of Fortescue Falls. There are few things more beautiful than waterfalls cascading down brilliant red rock cliffs. And if the sights aren’t enough to pique your interest, the park is also home to incredible indigenous wildlife. This includes Australian goshawks, ring-tailed dragons, and desert tree frogs.
26. Phillip Island Penguin Parade
In addition to its beautiful beaches and incredible cities, another thing that the country of Australia is renowned for having unique and beautiful wildlife. While seeing kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and dingoes is the biggest draw for visitors to Australia, one of the country’s most unique wildlife encounters doesn’t seem like it fits in Australia at all.
Located about 90 minutes from the city of Melbourne in Victoria, Phillip Island is infamous for having one of the largest breeding colonies of one of the world’s smallest penguin species. Each night, the Australian little penguins emerge from the ocean after a day of feeding to head back to their burrows on land.
And if you are lucky enough to secure a ticket, you can watch this adorable penguin parade from one of the many boardwalks. Without a doubt, this is one of the most unique wildlife encounters in the world. That is why I consider it one of the top things to see when visiting Australia.
25. Manly Beach
This wouldn’t be a list of the top things to see when visiting Australia without mentioning the many incredible beaches. And you can’t talk about Australia’s top beaches without mentioning the amazing Manly Beach in the city of Sydney.
Manly Beach is one of those magical beaches that seem to have something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Its soft white sand is great for laying on when enjoying some relaxation in the sun. For those who want to get into the water, the beach is one of Australia’s best for swimming, surfing, and snorkeling.
And if you are in the mood for some activity, but don’t want to get wet, the biking and walking paths are wonderful. So, if you are visiting Sydney in the near future, I would strongly suggest checking out the beautiful Manly Beach.
24. Wave Rock Caravan Park
Sometimes, a landscape looks just too incredible to be real. The iconic Wave Rock in Western Australia is one of these landscapes. Located roughly 350 kb southeast of Perth, this curved granite cliff face looks way too cool to be real. But believe me, it is very much real.
The Wave Rock is actually the northern face of a large granite erosional remnant called Hayden Rock. The rock has eroded to make the face look like a giant wave about be break. At roughly 15 meters high and 110 meters long, it is an incredible sight to see first-hand. One of the best ways to see Wave Rock is to stay at the Wave Rock caravan park. The facilities are incredible. They include restrooms, a swimming pool, barbeques, a kid’s playground, and even a cafe for visitors to enjoy.
23. Mount Wellington
While Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa may get more glory, it isn’t the only beautiful coastal mountain in the world. On the island state of Tasmania, the capital city of Hobart has its own iconic coastal mountain.
Here, you will find the iconic Mount Wellington. Not only is it every bit as beautiful as its South African counterpart, but it is also 200 meters taller. For travelers planning to visit Tasmania, checking out the Mount Wellington Park Reserve is well worth the time.
The park has many incredible hiking and biking paths for visitors to enjoy. And if you are up for the challenge, the views from the top of the mountain are breathtaking. And when you’re done exploring the park, the beautiful city of Hobart is a great place to unwind.
22. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
If the Loan Pine Koala Sanctuary sounds familiar, it’s probably because it was on my list of top wildlife destinations. Located in a suburb of Fig Tree Pocket in Queensland, it is the oldest koala sanctuary in the world. Infamous for its efforts to preserve some of Australia’s most iconic native wildlife, it features roughly 80 different species.
This includes many adorable koalas. If you love wildlife, there are few places in Australia where you can see more native wildlife in the wild. That is why the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is one of the top things to see when visiting Australia.
21. Kata Tjuta
Nothing is quite as iconic Australian as the region of the Northern Territory affectionately known as the “Red Centre”. This desert region of Australia is what many people picture when they hear the term “Outback”. Not only is this region of Australia unique, but it is also incredibly beautiful.
One of the most iconic landmarks in this region of the Northern Territory is the stunning Kata Tjuṯa. Also referred to as Mount Olga, it is a group of large, domed rock formations about 360 km southwest of Alice Springs. In addition to seeing and photographing this amazing landmark, you can also hike around them.
And if you wait until sunrise or sunset, they glow the most beautiful shade of orange. Definitely a must-see landmark for anyone visiting the Red Centre of Australia.
20. Wilsons Promontory National Park
Located on a peninsula southeast of Melbourne, Wilson’s Promontory National Park is simply breathtaking. Known for its beautiful, rugged granite mountains and abundant wildlife, the park is a favorite stop for outdoor adventurers and animal enthusiasts. Among the plentiful wildlife that can be found within the park include kangaroos and wombats.
There are also a number of fantastic beaches and hiking trails within the park to enjoy. And for those who love lighthouses, the Wilsons Promontory Light station, built in 1859, is stunning. So, if you are planning a trip to Melbourne, make sure you include a stop at Wilsons Promontory National Park on your itinerary.
19. Byron Bay
This quaint coastal town on the northern coast of New South Wales is a very popular holiday destination. It is known for its spectacular beaches, incredible surfing, and superb scuba diving sites. In addition to its incredible coastline, it’s also home to one of Australia’s prettiest lighthouses.
If you visit between June and November, you have a great chance of spotting humpback whales off the coast. Arguably the best spot to go whale watching is at the renowned Captain Cook Lookout. So, if you are looking for some great beach time when you visit Australia, the breathtaking Byron Bay should be on your list.
18. Kakadu National Park
If you are looking to experience the rough and ruggedness of Australia’s “Outback” region during your visit, you will want to visit the Northern Territory. This Australian state has some of the most beautiful desert landscapes in Australia.
One of the more beautiful parklands in the Northern Territory is the beautiful Kakadu National Park. Located near the northern coast, this enormous biodiverse nature reserve is spectacular. Within the park, you will find beautiful wetlands, mighty rivers, and breathtaking sandstone escarpments.
It is also home to over 2,000 different plant species and some of the largest saltwater crocodiles in the world. The park is also renowned for its brilliantly preserved Aboriginal rock paintings that date back to prehistoric times. So, if you are looking for a little adventure during your visit to Australia, keep the Kakadu National Park in mind.
17. The Kuranda Rainforest
While many people only picture beautiful beaches and the desert of the Outback when they think of Australia, the country also has some stunning rainforests. One of my favorite rainforests in Australia to visit is undoubtedly the breathtaking Kuranda Rainforest.
Located in Queensland near the city of Cairns, the Kuranda Rainforest Nature Park is a stunning way to escape into nature when visiting Australia. In addition to a wonderful train ride that you can take into the rainforest, there is also an incredible cable car that you can take as well. Both offer numerous stops where you can get out, enjoy the views, and try and spot some of the incredible indigenous wildlife.
At the top is Kuranda Town, where you can eat at a number of amazing restaurants or go shopping in the hippie village. There is also an incredible wildlife park and bird sanctuary to enjoy as well. So, if you are visiting Cairns to explore the Great Barrier Reef, the Kuranda Rainforest is a great add-on for your visit.
16. The Bay of Fires
While the mainland of Australia gets most of the glory for its breathtaking coastline, the island state of Tasmania certainly has its fair share as well. One of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in Tasmania is the renowned Bay of Fires.
Located on the island’s northeastern coast, from Binalong Bay to Eddystone Point, it is a popular spot for visitors. It was named by Captain Tobias Furneaux after he saw Aboriginal people around campfires on the beaches back in 1773.
Today the bay is more known for its soft white sand beaches, beautiful blue waters, and orange-hued granite rock along the coastline. Among other activities, visitors can enjoy boating, swimming, surfing, hiking, fishing, and bird watching. For anyone visiting Tasmania in the near future, a stop at the Bay of Fires for a little beach time should definitely be on the itinerary.
15. Bondi Beach
One thing that Sydney, Australia is not in short supply of breathtaking beaches. Seriously, there are almost too many to name or even to count. However, some of Sydney’s beaches are so incredible and popular that they are world-renowned. One of these beaches is the infamous Bondi Beach.
There is a good reason why Bondi Beach was near the top of my list of the top beaches in the world for travelers to visit. It’s situated near some of the most incredibly beautiful and rugged rocky coastlines you will find in the world. Not only that, but its soft white sand is perfect for sunbathing or taking a beach walk.
For those who want to get into the water, Bondi Beach is one of the best beaches in Australia for swimming or surfing. And if you don’t like the salt water, the Icebergs Ocean Pool is open for visitors to enjoy year-round. So, if seeing one of Australia’s iconic beaches is on your travel bucket list, make sure you don’t miss out on seeing Bondi Beach when you visit.
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14. Flinders Ranges
When putting together any list of the top things to see when visiting Australia, you absolutely have to include the top sights in the Outback. One of the most breathtaking locations in the Australian Outback is a location known as the Flinders Ranges.
Located in the state of South Australia, about 380 km north of Adelaide, the Flinders Ranges encapsulates everything you would imagine when thinking of the Outback. Driving thru the area, you would think you are driving on the surface of Mars. Ancient cliffs that tower into the sky, deep craters that seem to have no bottom, and dusty dirt roads meandering into the distance are hallmarks of Flinders Ranges.
Visitors can drive along the Aboriginal Dreaming Trail or marvel at the Wilpena Pound. This shockingly gigantic amphitheater will take your breath away. And it is just one of the many incredible geographical features you will find in this amazing landscape. In summary, for those looking for an authentic Australian Outback adventure, the Flinders Ranges in South Australia may be just what you are looking for.
13. Whitsundays
If there were to be one rule about visiting Australia, in my opinion, it should be that you can’t plan a visit without getting out on the ocean. Seriously, Australia has some of the most breathtaking and biodiverse ocean waters in the world. It would be an absolute shame to visit and not get to experience this beauty first-hand.
Without a doubt, one of the best places to get out on the ocean in Australia is the infamous Whitsunday Islands. This cluster of 74 islands lies between the northeast coast of Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef. In fact, if you plan to visit the reef, and why wouldn’t you, then seeing the Whitsundays is a convenient side trip.
The islands are characterized by dense rainforests, incredible hiking trails, and white-sand beaches. If in the process of planning your trip, you can use the quaint beach town of Airlie Beach as your hub. From there, you can enjoy all of the beauty and splendor the Whitsunday Islands have to offer!
12. Bells Beach
If you have ever seen the movie Point Break, you may remember the scene where Patrick Swayze’s character Bodhi paddles out from a beach into the “100-year storm”, never to be seen again. In the movie, that beach is the iconic Bells Beach in Australia.
This world-renowned surfing beach is located in the state of Victoria in the Surf Coast Shire and is legendary within surfing circles. In fact, surfing is so big in the area that two different iconic surfing brands started out in the area. That’s right, the renowned surf brands Rip Curl and Quiksilver were both founded near Bells Beach.
For those planning on visiting Melbourne and driving the Great Ocean Road, Bells Beach is one of the first stops. Even if you aren’t up for getting out on the water and surfing, seeing this iconic beach and doing a little shopping is well worth the visit. So what are you waiting for? Surfs up!
11. The Blue Mountains
Sydney, Australia has enough incredible things to see and do to keep you busy for days. However, there are many incredible things to see in the surrounding area as well. If you are looking for an amazing day trip to take from Sydney, I would recommend the beautiful Blue Mountains.
This rugged region west of Sydney is known for its dramatically beautiful scenery and lovely little villages. Each year, visitors flock to the Blue Mountains from Sydney to enjoy the steep cliffs, the stunning eucalyptus forests, and the breathtaking waterfalls.
If you would like to stay in the area, the wonderful city of Katoomba is a great place to stay. The town borders the Blue Mountains and has many trails into the mountains that you can explore. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on seeing Echo Point. From here, you have some of the best views of the storied Three Sisters rock formation.
10. Fraser Island
If it is ranked in the top 10 on my list of the top things to see when visiting Australia, it must be good. Australia has a number of incredible islands off its coastline, but Frazer Island is in a league of its own. Located along the southeastern coast in the Wide Bay region of Queensland, the island is renowned for its towering trees that grow on top of sand dunes.
The official citation of the island pays tribute to the island’s “exceptional natural beauty”, and that is no exaggeration. With over 250 km of beautiful sand beach, colorful seaside cliffs, and breathtaking rainforests, Fraser Island is one of the gems of Australian tourism.
However, the island may be most famous for the incredible shipwreck of the SS Maheno. The wreck still sits on the beach and is one of the top Instagram locations in Queensland. For those looking for a day trip from Brisbane to get out in nature, Fraser Island is a great option!
9. The Sydney Harbour Bridge
Not only is the Sydney Harbour Bridge an absolute must-see attraction when visiting Sydney, but it might also be one of the most iconic symbols of Australia itself. Spanning the beautiful Sydney Harbour near the heart of the city, the bridge is impossible to miss.
There are many viewpoints around the city where you can photograph the bridge. However, the best views are from the bridge itself. The city offers tours where you can climb to the top of the bridge, with a safety harness of course.
The incredible views of the city of Sydney from the top of the bridge will take your breath away. If you plan to visit Sydney and would like to climb the bridge, check out my Ultimate Sydney, Australia Travel Guide linked below for more details.
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8. Port Douglas
For travelers visiting the Great Barrier Reef that are looking for other things to explore, the city of Port Douglas is a great option. Not only are there many tours to the Great Barrier Reef operated out of Port Douglas, but it is also close to the Daintree Rainforest.
This hip, yet relaxed seaside village is perfect for all types of travelers. There is a wide range of accommodation options, so it is a very good location to use as a base to explore the far north of Queensland. In addition to many great restaurants and boutique shops, the city also has a wonderful beach to enjoy. So, before you start booking your trip to Queensland, Australia, consider checking out Port Douglas during your stay.
7. Wineglass Bay
There are some destinations that are just magical. The incredible Wine Glass Bay (also known as Coles Bay) on the east coast of Tasmania is one of those places. You can’t just stop and see it because you always leave wanting more of this paradise. Nowhere else in Australia can you find breathtaking pink granite mountains that seem to rise straight out of the sea.
With calm, clear waters, it is the perfect spot to take a boat cruise around the peninsula or go kayaking. For travelers looking for a little more adventure, the sea cliffs offer some of the best rock climbing in Australia. And if you aren’t a climber, the mountain trails offer stunning views of the bay and the coastline. No matter what speed you like to travel, the picture-perfect Wine Glass Bay in Tasmania has something for every type of traveler to enjoy.
6. The Pinnacles Desert
There are some truly spectacular landscapes in Australia, but the Pinnacles Desert of Nambung National Park may be one of the best. Located along Australia’s Coral Coast in Western Australia, this incredible park encapsulates the beauty of Australia’s desert regions.
Formed millions of years ago, the thousands of amazing natural limestone spires that fill the valley make it feel like you are on another planet. In addition to the incredible landscape, the park is also home to some spectacular local wildlife.
And because it is located just three hours from the city of Perth, it is an easy day trip for anyone visiting Western Australia. So, if you are looking for something to fill out your itinerary when you visit Western Australia, I would strongly consider the Pinnacles Desert.
5. The Daintree Rainforest
You can’t make a list of the top things to see when visiting Australia and not include the incredible Daintree Rainforest. Formed over 135 million years ago, it is the oldest rainforest in the world.
Not only is it one of Australia’s most beautiful places, but it is also one of its most biodiverse. The rainforest is home to many of Australia’s indigenous plant and animal species. In fact, some of the plants and animals that live there are found nowhere else in the world.
Visitors have a chance to see animals such as the Southern Cassowary, Boyd’s Forest Dragon, and Bennett’s and Lumholtz Tree Kangaroos. Because Daintree is just 105 km from Cairns, it is a popular destination for visitors touring the Great Barrier Reef.
If you do decide to visit, make sure you take one of the area’s infamous croc cruises. The boat rides down the Daintree River, which is home to large saltwater crocs, is an experience you’ll remember forever!
4. Uluru
There are some landmarks in Australia that are just too fantastic to miss. Simply put, the massive sandstone monolith named Uluru, or Ayers Rock, is one of them. Located in the heart of Australia’s Northern Territory, Uluru is world-renowned for its beauty.
In fact, it has almost become synonymous with the “Red Centre” of Australia’s Outback region. Because it is located roughly 450km away from Alice Springs, which is the nearest town, it’s a hike to get to. But if you have the time and don’t mind making the effort, it is well worth it.
Uluru is located in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, which is also home to Kata Tjuta (mentioned previously on my list). So, if you are able to get there, you can cross two of Australia’s must-see items off your list!
3. The Sydney Opera House
When it comes to iconic landmarks that symbolize Australia, few come to mind more than the Sydney Opera House. This breathtaking building, located on the south side of the Sydney Harbour, is one of the most famous theatres in the world.
The amazing design of this building came out of an international competition that included 233 different designs from 30 different countries. Today, the 2,679-seat Concert Hall hosts symphony concerts, choir performances, and popular music shows.
I can think of no way better to spend a night in Sydney than taking in a show at this iconic opera house. If you are planning a visit to Sydney in the near future, I would suggest getting your tickets early.
2. The Twelve Apostles
Without a doubt, my favorite thing that I saw when in Australia was the breathtaking Twelve Apostles. Rising out of the ocean waters a staggering 45m (150ft), the limestone pillars were once connected to the seaside cliffs.
Today, they are the feature attraction of Port Campbell National Park on the coast of Victoria. Located roughly 4.5 hours from Melbourne on the famed Great Ocean Road, Port Campbell National Park, and the Twelve Apostles have become a must-see attraction for visitors.
In addition to the park roads, there are many different paved and gravel hiking trails within the park. For more information on what else you can see in Port Campbell National Park, see my visitor guide linked below. If you are planning a trip to Melbourne, seeing the Great Ocean Road and its star the Twelve Apostles is something you won’t want to miss!
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| Definitive Great Ocean Road Guide |
1. The Great Barrier Reef
The last item on my list of the top things to see when visiting Australia really doesn’t need much of an introduction. As the largest coral reef on Earth and one of the most biodiverse places in our planet’s oceans, the Great Barrier Reef is simply a wonder of the world.
Every year, millions of visitors from around the world flock to Australia to see this natural beauty. The Great Barrier Reef is actually a collection of over 2,900 individual reefs and over 900 islands that stretch over 2,300 kilometers down the coast of Queensland, Australia.
All told, this enormous reef covers a total of 344,400 square kilometers and hosts roughly 25% of the ocean’s species. It is truly a wonder to behold. If you want to see the reef, you will need to book a tour with a licensed professional.
The best places to book these tours are either from the city of Cairns or Port Douglas, in Northern Queensland. Tours offer a variety of different options to see the reef, including both snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. Without a doubt, seeing the Great Barrier Reef is an experience you will always remember.
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The diverse range of attractions and destinations in Australia is truly mind-boggling, and you’ve done an excellent job of showcasing the country’s natural beauty and cultural wonders. I appreciate the effort you’ve put into compiling this list of the top 40 things to see in Australia, providing valuable insights and recommendations for travelers. Each destination mentioned paints a vivid picture in my mind, igniting my wanderlust and making me eager to explore the breathtaking landscapes, iconic landmarks, and unique wildlife of Australia. Thank you for this informative and captivating article!
Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and kind words!! Australia is such an incredible place!!