By Leah Still
Places to See in Australia
From the populated east coast to the less-traveled west coast, Australia is an enormous country with so many natural attractions that it's overwhelming to know where to begin. Much of the beauty sits around the coastline, as well as most of the people. If you have the time and resources to circle the entire coast, you'll see more of Australia than most visitors do. But the highlights are the
beaches, wildlife and wine regions.
Rottnest Island, Western Australia
One of many idyllic bays off Rottnest Island that can be explored as you cycle the island
Just a 30-minute ferry ride off the coast of Perth is the Rottnest Island, a preserved island where you can rent a bungalow for a weekend or just spend a day. Cycling is the ideal way to tour the island. You'll ride past picturesque bays with clear turquoise water. Stop at one for a picnic and look out for pelicans and quokkas. Bikes can be rented in Thomson Bay, the island's main settlement.
Coral Bay, Western Australia
Paradise awaits you in Coral Bay, Western Australia
You'll find bliss in tiny, unpopulated Coral Bay on Australia's west coast. The calm aqua waters of the small bay offer sun-bathing at its finest, but adventure can be found out on the sea. Coral Bay is home to many ocean tours, including swimming with whale sharks. Whale sharks may be the biggest fish in the sea, but they're gentle and only eat plankton. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The Kimberley, Western Australia
The Kimberley is home to many of Australia's national parks and stunning landscapes. A cruise is one of the most popular ways to enjoy the region, although you can also rent a car, just make sure to get a four-wheel drive. The Kimberley is a rugged and dramatic part of Australia made up of red earth, rock formations, lakes and waterfalls. Start your journey in Broome (a film location of the movie "Australia") and work east.
Whitsunday Islands, Queensland
The Whitsunday Islands are an archipelago off the coast of tropical Queensland. It's a gateway to Australia's famed Great Barrier Reef. You can tour several of the islands on a sailboat. There are options ranging from one-night to seven-night cruises. Many of the islands are uninhabited and offer beautiful white-sand beaches shaded by palm trees. Snorkeling and diving spots abound, as well.
Gold Coast, Queensland
The Gold Coast is where you'll find some of Australia's most popular surf spots. So pick up a surf board and head out into the waves at Surfer's Paradise. The attractions in this area mostly involve the beach and the Pacific--sunscreen and your swimsuit are necessities. If surfing isn't up your alley, relax on a beach towel and enjoy the view.
Byron Bay, New South Wales
In northern New South Wales, you'll find Byron Bay, a beautiful stretch of sand and turquoise Pacific waters. It's one of Australia's popular surfing spots and a lively place for you to meet other travelers, ride bikes or spot whales. There are many festivals in Byron Bay throughout the year, as well.
Sydney Harbour, New South Wales
The iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge are much-photographed Sydney landmarks, and for good reason--the Sydney Harbour is one of the prettiest in the world. Don't complete your trip to Australia without snapping some pictures of the lovely area and walking across the bridge. Jump on a ferry for better views, and then sit in a neighboring coffee shop for some local flavor.
Melbourne, Victoria
Australia is mostly vast, empty land. But Melbourne is a trendy, cosmopolitan city in the southeastern state of Victoria. If you're a clothes-hound, you'll be quite happy here. Melbourne offers many chic upscale boutiques, but check out the South Melbourne Market for more eclectic goodies. You can stock up on groceries, buy gifts for friends back home and sample what is arguably some of the best dim sum in Australia, which you'll find in a back stall toward the market's east side.
Barossa Valley, South Australia
There are few better ways to spend a day than a country drive through rolling hillsides, stopping off at wineries along the way. Australia is known for wines from many regions in more than one state, but the Barossa Valley in South Australia is one of the best. Shiraz and Riesling are two of the most-loved wines in the region, and there are ample wineries where you can try them out. Don't miss Yalumba winery, which is one of Australia's oldest.
Tasmania
Tasmania sits off the western south coast of Australia and should not be overlooked. You can fly from the mainland, of course, but the overnight boat from Melbourne, which docks in Devonport, is often more economical. Spend some time in Hobart, the capital. Then make your way around the island, where natural attractions are waiting to be enjoyed. Wineglass Bay, the Franklin River, Cradle Mountain and the Huon Valley are some highlights.
About the Author:
Leah Still has written about travel, fashion and home design since 2003. Her work has appeared in various print and online publications, including "SKI" magazine, Southernaccents.com and Gusto.com. She has a journalism degree from the University of Missouri and broadens her education with both domestic and international travel.
Photo Credits:
Leah Still
