Known for its endless beauty, exotic animals, awesome cafes, and infinite beaches, Australia is an adventure traveller’s paradise.
Listed as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Barrier Reef is one of the largest living structures on our planet and can be seen from outer space. To protect the thousands of marine animals and coral reefs that call it home, it was established as a marine park in 1975. It stretches 2300 km long (1430 miles) along the Australian coast of Queensland. With more than 1600 species of fish, sharks, turtles, and giant clams the crystal clear waters make the Great Barrier Reef a snorkeler’s and diver’s paradise. For the extreme adventurer many tour companies offer White Shark cage diving. For the not so adventurous the wonders of the reef can be seen from the safety of glass bottom boats. Whichever way you choose to see this amazing reef is a must see when traveling to Australia.
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Listed as a World Heritage Site, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, also known as “shadowy place” by the indigenous Aborigines, is a striking red monolith rising 348 m (1,141 ft.) from the surrounding plains. It has become one of the most photographed natural wonders in Australia, sunset being the best time to capture its splendor. The best way to experience the sacred structures is to hire a local Aboriginal guide or ranger.
Blue Mountains National Park
A short 81 km (50 miles) from Sydney lays the Blue Mountains National Park, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Gaining its name from the blue hue that radiates from the eucalyptus trees covering the mountains, the 664,000 acres comprises waterfalls, aboriginal rock paintings, spectacular gorges, and almost 150 km (87 miles) of gorgeous hiking trails. The Three Sisters sandstone rock formations are one of the most popular points within the National Park.
Bondi Beach
No visit to Australia is complete without experiencing the beach in all its glory and there is no better place in Australia to do it than Bondi Beach. Here is where you’ll find beautiful sand, refreshing blue water, gorgeous tanned bodies, and fantastic food. In the mood for some fun, the people at Bondi are more than happy to share their volley ball game, help a novice surfer, or include you in their picnic. There are various cafes, shops, and restaurants along the 6 km Bondi to Bronte coastal walk if a long stroll is what you want. A word of caution…the riptides off the beach can be treacherous so if you’re not used to swimming in the ocean stay in the shallow water. Of course there are those famous Bondi lifeguards to save you!
Broome and the Kimberley Region
Infinite white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise seas make up the Cable Broome and the Kimberley region beach. Located off the town of Broome that was once known as the pearl capitol of the world, this thriving tourist town is known for its “Staircase to the Moon”. Visitors to this area in the months of March and October can witness a phenomenon that occurs during certain conditions in which the moonlight creates an optical illusion of stairs that appear to lead straight to the moon. Another famous must do activity are the sunset camel rides.
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Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Blue Mountains National Park
Bondi Beach
