Australia was made for bucket lists, with a variety of experiences that blend adventure, scenery and that once-in-a-lifetime vibe! With each state, you get something different that is unique to the region. Here are seven of the top things to do in Australia that highlight each state, from beautiful sunrises to wildlife encounters.
Queensland: Atherton Tablelands Hot-air Balloon Sunrise
How to get there: Tour pickup is available from Cairns and Port Douglas or self-drive to Mareeba.
When someone plans their holiday in Queensland, snorkelling and diving on the Great Barrier Reef are generally must-do items. But, what if we told you that there was another experience that gives you the same high, just above the clouds! A sunrise hot-air balloon ride over Atherton Tablelands is exactly that.
The tour departs from Mareeba and your day begins by watching the sunrise while gliding over clouds and sweeping farmlands. See the land beneath you wake up as you pass by clouds and mountain peaks. After your balloon ride, stay for post-flight celebrations featuring locally-sourced refreshments.
New South Wales: Sydney Harbour Dinner Cruises
How to get there: Head to Darling Harbour/ Circular Quay by train, bus or walk from your accommodation.
Sydney has some of the most iconic landmarks in the world, and instead of seeing them from land… choose one of the dinner cruises on Sydney Harbour for uninterrupted views of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and the city skyline! Enjoy restaurant-quality dinner menus, drinks and modern amenities onboard while cruising across Australia’s most famed waterway.
With an option to select the type of cruise, choose from modern and sleek catamarans to historic paddlewheelers and glass boats! It is a popular choice for celebrations, date nights and for visitors wanting a relaxing, all-inclusive Sydney experience!
Victoria: Swim with Dolphins and Seals at Mornington Peninsula
How to get there: Self-drive from Melbourne or catch connecting ferries from the Bellarine Peninsula.
Mornington Peninsula is Victoria’s favourite getaway and a popular experience here is to swim with Common Bottlenose Dolphins and Australian Fur Seals in their natural habitat! These experiences operate from Port Philip Bay where expert guides lead the tours; snorkelling gear along with wetsuits are provided.
The seals are inquisitive and playful, circling and gliding past swimmers. The dolphins ride alongside the boat and you get to see their close bond with their pods. It is a very interactive and immersive experience with Aussie wildlife! Apart from the marine life, these tours also offer stunning views of the coastal cliffs that the region is famous for.
Western Australia: Meet the Rottnest Island Quokkas
How to get there: Catch a ferry from Perth, Fremantle or Hillarys to Rottnest Island.
Meeting the Quokkas of Rottnest Island is a highlight for anyone visiting Western Australia. These friendly creatures roam freely around the island and are often seen along walking trails, beaches and even camping sites.
Visitors can join guided tours or cycle to popular viewing spots where rangers ensure interactions are safe and wildlife-friendly. You can even combine your quokka meetup with another activity like swimming, snorkelling or exploring on the island!
Northern Territory: Sunrise at Uluru-Kata Tjuta
How to get there: Fly directly to Ayers Rock Airport or opt for a 4-hour drive from Alice Springs (nearest town).
When asked, most visitors told us that experiencing the sunrise at Uluru-Kata Tjuta was their highlight recommendation so it goes without saying that it should be here. The National Park has five designated viewing areas from where you can see this natural spectacle.
The viewpoints are strategically located so that the sun’s rays hit the rock formations at that perfect angle – making them appear to change colour. It’s the quintessential NT experience!
South Australia: Kangaroo Island Walking Tours
How to get there: Take the ferry, public bus or shuttle from Adelaide/Cape Jervis.
Kangaroo Island introduces visitors to South Australia’s biodiverse environment! These guided walking tours take you through eucalyptus forests and native bushlands where you can spot kangaroos (of course), koalas, echidnas and a variety of birds at close range.
Along the way, your guide will share insights about the island and a few conservation efforts as well! The Kangaroo Island Walk is laid-back with a relaxed pace, making it suitable for all ages and family-friendly. This is a top choice for those seeking an authentic SA experience.
Tasmania: Hike to Wineglass Bay
How to get there: Public buses, water taxi services and guided tours are available from Hobart and Coles Bay.
Wineglass Bay is probably Tasmania’s most beautiful natural attraction with the bay’s white sand and turquoise waters. The Wineglass Bay hike is a popular choice amongst travellers as it combines the outdoors with moderate physical activity and world-class scenery. The well-maintained trail takes you through granite landscapes and forests before reaching the famous lookout. It allows for visitors to explore Freycinet National Park and spend time at Wineglass Bay.
So, if you’re planning to visit Down Under, check out these experiences in whichever state you’re visiting and see the true spirit of Australia through these experiences!
Author Bio – Amanda Clark
A Sydney-based travel writer who loves chasing experiences that defy expectations – especially when great food and entertainment are part of the mix. From unforgettable hits to unexpected flops, I share real stories to keep the adventure honest and fun for everyone!
