Choose from 889 Fun Things to Do in Australia And The Pacific
ShowingFilter 81-100 of 889 listings.
Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre
This world-class destination, 100 percent owned and operated by Australia’s Aboriginal people, is nestled into the scenic backdrop of the continent’s own unique indigenous flora and fauna. Visitors agree that the incredible architecture, pristine grounds and knowledgeable staff make Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Center one of Victoria’s top destinations.
Travelers can tour ancient rock art while they learn about the traditions of one of Australian’s oldest people. Interesting exhibits explore the chronological history of native cultures and the boomerang training ground, where families can test out their newly purchased toys, provides visitors with a truly memorable experience.
Practical Info
The Aboriginal Cultural Center is located at 277 Grampians Road in Halls Gap, Victoria. It’s open daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Guided tours range from $70 to $140.
Address: 277 Grampians Road, Halls Gap, Victoria, Australia
Admission: $70-140
From $ 100
Broome Town Beach
Town Beach is one of many sandy spots in Broome, and its main attraction is its water playground that dominates the foreshore. Built for kids of all ages, the playground is designed to be all-inclusive, enabling children of all abilities to play. A range of sprayers including a whale tail sprayer, mistry twisty, sneaky soakers and froggy-o-sprayer are set up to provide a fun play environment. The playground operates on a cycle that randomly repeats and is activated when a start button is pressed.
Safety is paramount here. Soft-fall ground covering ensures a non-slip environment, and the water is UV filtered and chlorinated. A designated area for disabled children includes a self-propelling, custom built, water submersible wheelchair that is available for free hire.
While the playground is a huge part of the attractions of Town Beach, the beach itself is also popular. Besides the bay being a calm swimming spot, the grassy foreshore also offers a great place for picnics. Just beside the playground sits the Town Beach Café, serving coffee, pastries and more.
Practical Info
Town Beach Playground is open from 9-5, except on Tuesdays. Public toilets are available near the playground. The playground is located on Robinson Street.
Address: Robinson Street, Broome, WA, Australia 6725, Australia
From $ 67
Busselton Jetty
At over a mile in length, the Busselton Jetty is the longest of its kind found anywhere in the Southern Hemisphere. Because Busselton’s Geographe Bay is far too shallow for ships, the Jetty was constructed as a means of transporting cargo to deeper water. Though ships no longer dock here today, Busselton Jetty is now a draw for legions of coastal visitors, who stroll the jetty, take in the views, and swim in the waters of Geographe Bay whenever it’s warm enough in summer. Aside from the scenic stroll over water, a popular activity at Busselton Jetty is visiting the Underwater Observatory, where a spiral staircase leads 26 feet to the ocean floor below. With 11 portholes for viewing beneath water, the Observatory offers a look at marine life inhabiting the artificial reef, which includes a colorful collection of coral that’s rare for the southern latitude. If a mile seems like too far to walk (and then, of course, walk back), an historic train runs the length of jetty and leaves from the Interpretive Center—which itself explains to visitors the history of Busselton’s most famous sight.
Practical Info
The Busselton Jetty is at the end of Queen Street where it meets the Busselton Beachfront. The jetty itself is always open, though the Interpretive Center and Underwater Observatory have regular business hours and additional fees. For a memorable visit, enjoy the walk to the end at sunset and stroll back under the stars.
Address: Busselton Beachfront, Busselton, Western Australia, Australia WA 6280, Australia
Hours: 24 hours
Admission: $2.25
From $ 30
Botany Bay
Botany Bay is a central port of Sydney, significant both in historic and modern times. In 1770, it was the landing spot of Captain James Cook when he first stepped onto Australia after having explored New Zealand extensively. The bay was named for the botanical species found by a naturalist on board his ship. French explorers turned up in 1788, days after the First Fleet had arrived in Australia. The heritage-listed spot is now home to a monument marking the meeting of European and Aboriginal cultures here.
Today Botany Bay serves as the site of both Sydney’s major cargo port, Port Botany, as well as two runways of the Sydney airport. To the north and south, Botany Bay National Park sits on La Perouse and Kurnell headlands. This area offers hiking, scuba diving, snorkeling, walking tracks, picnic areas, and scenic lookouts out over the bay.
Practical Info
Botany Bay is located 8 miles south of the Sydney central business district. The Kamay Botany Bay National Park’s hours are from 7 am to 7:30 pm daily, and includes a visitors center and various facilities.
Address: Botany Bay, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Hours: 7 am to 7:30 pm daily
From $ 2,936
Broome Chinatown
A colorful history accompanies Broome's Chinatown. During the heyday of Broome's pearling industry, the pearlers (many from China, Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia and Europe) would arrive back on shore cashed up and head to the opium dens and billiard halls of Chinatown.
Things have changed. You won’t find opium dens; however, you will still find corrugated sheds alongside some fascinating Chinese architecture and delicious food. The area is filled with pearl shops selling pearls and mother-of-pearl products many of which come from local waters.
Stroll around, soak up the atmosphere and learn about Broome's exciting history from the great storyboards on the shops along Johnny Chi Lane.
Things have changed. You won’t find opium dens; however, you will still find corrugated sheds alongside some fascinating Chinese architecture and delicious food. The area is filled with pearl shops selling pearls and mother-of-pearl products many of which come from local waters.
Stroll around, soak up the atmosphere and learn about Broome's exciting history from the great storyboards on the shops along Johnny Chi Lane.
Practical Info
Chinatown is still the commercial center of Broome so it is a major stop for the Broome Bus, which has comprehensive coverage of Broome. It is also walking distance from the airport.
Address: Johnny Chi Lane, Broome, Australia
Admission: Free
From $ 73
Buried Village of Te Wairoa
The Buried Village of Te Wairoa offers a unique glimpse into 19th century New Zealand life, as it was buried and preserved by volcanic ash in an 1866 eruption. One of New Zealand's most popular attractions, this archeological treasure houses a museum to the village and the interaction of Maori and colonial cultures. You'll see towering, carved Maori artwork in the museum and then tour the excavation points around the site.
If you're visiting New Zealand for its outdoor-centric lifestyle, the Buried Village is a good hub for great hiking. Beyond the village is the spectacular Waterfall Trail. It provides two different hiking tracks of breathtaking scenery and the famed rainbow trout that live and spawn in the Te Wairoa stream. The Tarawera area is crossed by several other trails, including one at Lake Okareka.
The Buried Village is located in a 12 acre park covered in trees and meadows. New Zealand is known for its outdoor beauty, and this attraction has it in spades; much of it is related to the rugged majesty of the volcanic mountains. Nearby are a host of activities; the volcanic landscape offers fantastic mountain-biking runs and you can also climb the crater of Mt. Tarawera. Two companies book plane tours that take off from the Buried Village.
Address: Buried Village, Tarawera Road, RD 5, Rotorua, New Zealand
Hours: Open daily. Summer(Nov - Mar): 9am - 5pm (until 4:30pm in Winter). Closed Christmas Day
Admission: Adults: NZ$30, Children (5-15yrs): NZ$8
From $ 81
Brisbane City Hall
Admire historical glamor and civic pride at Brisbane City Hall, which was built between 1920 and 1930 and reopened in 2013 after an extensive $215 million heritage restoration.
Located in the heart of the city, next to King George Square and close to Queen Street Mall, the heritage-listed Brisbane City Hall is Australia’s only city hall and is the home of Brisbane society, culture and governance. As well as hosting community events and civic ceremonies, Brisbane City Hall accommodates the Brisbane Lord Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Brisbane Council chambers and the world-class Museum of Brisbane.
The gem of City Hall is the stunning circular auditorium, with an impressive fluted Corinthian pilasters, overhead dome, an organ built in 1892, restored gallery seating and gilded elegance. A tour of the marble halls, auditorium and 70 metre tall clock tower is a Brisbane tourism must, followed by an indulgent serve of tea and cake at the locally-loved Shingle Inn café, which is located within City Hall.
Located in the heart of the city, next to King George Square and close to Queen Street Mall, the heritage-listed Brisbane City Hall is Australia’s only city hall and is the home of Brisbane society, culture and governance. As well as hosting community events and civic ceremonies, Brisbane City Hall accommodates the Brisbane Lord Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Brisbane Council chambers and the world-class Museum of Brisbane.
The gem of City Hall is the stunning circular auditorium, with an impressive fluted Corinthian pilasters, overhead dome, an organ built in 1892, restored gallery seating and gilded elegance. A tour of the marble halls, auditorium and 70 metre tall clock tower is a Brisbane tourism must, followed by an indulgent serve of tea and cake at the locally-loved Shingle Inn café, which is located within City Hall.
Practical Info
City Hall is open to visitors seven days a week and tours of City Hall and tours of the clock tower are free. Call 3403 8463 to make a tour before coming. Tours leave at 10:30am, 11:30am, 1:30pm, 2:30pm and 3:30pm from the King George Square foyer.
Address: 64 Adelaide St, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
From $ 44
Byron Main Beach
Suitably named, Byron Bay's Main Beach stretches along the front of the town and is the go-to destination for beach lounging, swimming or catching a wave. On a sunny day in Byron Bay, expect locals and visitors alike to be making the most at Main Beach – the town's closest beach outlet.
Main Beach is known for its beautiful surroundings, with views of the Julian Rocks, Cape Byron Light and grassy hills meeting the horizon line of white sandy beach and enticing water. Besides swimming and beach lounging, a popular activity is to snorkel out to the old shipwreck of the Tassie II just off-shore.
The reliable right and left-hand breaks at Main Beach make it a popular place for beginners to learn to surf. Several surf schools operate directly at Main Beach, but make sure to research this fact before making a booking. Surf schools must be authorized to operate at the beaches of Byron Bay or else they travel several minutes outside of the region for their lessons.
The Surf Club has called Main Beach home since 1906, and you can expect a patrolled beach during the summer month, but always remember to swim between the flags.
Main Beach is known for its beautiful surroundings, with views of the Julian Rocks, Cape Byron Light and grassy hills meeting the horizon line of white sandy beach and enticing water. Besides swimming and beach lounging, a popular activity is to snorkel out to the old shipwreck of the Tassie II just off-shore.
The reliable right and left-hand breaks at Main Beach make it a popular place for beginners to learn to surf. Several surf schools operate directly at Main Beach, but make sure to research this fact before making a booking. Surf schools must be authorized to operate at the beaches of Byron Bay or else they travel several minutes outside of the region for their lessons.
The Surf Club has called Main Beach home since 1906, and you can expect a patrolled beach during the summer month, but always remember to swim between the flags.
Address: Directly across from town, Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia
From $ 49
Bridge of Remembrance
Stretching across the Avon River, the Bridge of Remembrance was unveiled in 1924 to honor the servicemen and women who bravely fought in World War I. Hundreds of soldiers have since marched on its stones. Today, the bridge and monument arch are viewed by many as the center of downtown Christchurch.
The Basics
While it's possible to spot the Bridge of Remembrance independently, it’s best visited as part of a guided city sightseeing tour. Whether pointed out from a double-decker bus or explored while on a bicycle tour of downtown Christchurch, you’ll learn about the monument’s historical significance—a stoic reminder of the bravery of Canterbury’s troops—via in-depth commentary from local guides. For a patriotic and moving event, visit the bridge on Anzac Day to honor the soldiers who have fallen.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bridge of Remembrance and its stone arch now function as a memorial site for those who also fought in conflicts after the Great War.
- Visits to the historical landmark are a must-do for war veterans and history buffs.
- The site is popular for family picnics overlooking the Avon River.
How to Get There
The Bridge of Remembrance crosses the Avon River at the end of Cashel Street and links the Oxford and Cambridge Terraces. With its central location, it’s easily accessible on foot or by car, coach, bicycle, or tram. The Christchurch Tramway includes 17 stops, allowing you to disembark at nearby attractions, which include the Cashel Street Mall and Punting on the Avon.
When to Get There
The bridge is open 24 hours daily. Due to its outdoor location, it’s best visited in dry weather. People typically spend 15–45 minutes exploring the site, which can be viewed during daylight hours or when illuminated at night.
Earthquake Recovery
The major earthquake that hit Canterbury in 2011 damaged both the Bridge of Remembrance and the accompanying Triumphal Arch. The bridge was closed to the public, with the two lion figures atop the arch among the most heavily damaged pieces. For three years engineers worked to strengthen the structure, bringing it back to its former glory.
Address: Cashel Street, Christchurch, South Island 8011, New Zealand
From $ 49
Brisbane River
Brisbane is a city shaped by the river. It is a city of long walks in the summer dusk and riverside picnics on weekends. Bringing natural life to the urban scape, the Brisbane River is the site of many of Brisbane’s best attractions, events and everyday joys.
Popular activities on the Brisbane River include kayaking through the city at night, exploring the river on a CityCat, taking a dining river cruise or catching a local ferry to reach the opposite shore. Climbing the Kangaroo Point Cliffs on the river’s edge is a popular evening activity, and many residents and visitors alike enjoy climbing the famous Story Bridge, dining at South Bank by the water and relaxing with a drink at Eagle Street Pier.
You can also take a walk through the City Botanical Gardens that follow the northern river’s edge, see a live show at the famous Riverstage, look across the urban night from a Gallery of Modern Art ‘Up Late’ event, or read by the river from a peaceful seat on the State Library Queensland deck.
Popular activities on the Brisbane River include kayaking through the city at night, exploring the river on a CityCat, taking a dining river cruise or catching a local ferry to reach the opposite shore. Climbing the Kangaroo Point Cliffs on the river’s edge is a popular evening activity, and many residents and visitors alike enjoy climbing the famous Story Bridge, dining at South Bank by the water and relaxing with a drink at Eagle Street Pier.
You can also take a walk through the City Botanical Gardens that follow the northern river’s edge, see a live show at the famous Riverstage, look across the urban night from a Gallery of Modern Art ‘Up Late’ event, or read by the river from a peaceful seat on the State Library Queensland deck.
Practical Info
There are a number of ways to easily explore the Brisbane River. Travelling on the river by CityCat is quick, cheap and easy. Bikeways and walkways follow much of the river’s edge, and there are five inner-city pedestrian bridges to help you weave your way between the north and south banks.
If you feel like joining the many enthusiastic cyclists along the Brisbane River, try the CityCycle hire scheme available to residents and visitors across the inner city.
If you feel like joining the many enthusiastic cyclists along the Brisbane River, try the CityCycle hire scheme available to residents and visitors across the inner city.
Address: Brisbane, QLD, Australia
From $ 15
Bruny Island Berry Farm
Bruny Island has a reputation as an Australian foodie paradise, and the Bruny Island Berry Farm is part of the reason why. Here on this family-owned berry farm near the shores of Adventure Bay, locally-grown berries are deliciously transformed into ice cream, scones, jams, cheesecakes, and a wide assortment of desserts. If some of the farm’s 7,000 strawberry plants happen to be in season, visitors have the chance to wander the fields and pick their own berries from the vines. Blackberries, blueberries, boysenberries, and youngberries all sweeten a visit to the farm, and even if the berries aren’t currently in season, the rural café is a relaxing spot for a coffee, tea, or scone.
Practical Info
The Bruny Island Berry Farm is open from 10am-5pm daily, but is closed during the winter months of May-late October. From the car ferry it’s approximately a 40-minute drive heading south towards Adventure Bay.
Address: 550 Adventure Bay Road, Adventure Bay TAS, Australia
From $ 133
Bruny Island
Less than an hour from the Tasmanian capital and yet a world away from the busy streets of Hobart, Bruny Island draws a steady stream of weekenders from the mainland. The two islands, joined by a long narrow isthmus, are a wildlife haven of jagged cliffs and golden beaches swirling with seabirds. Both are dotted with sleepy villages and tranquil guesthouses, and main activities are hiking, fishing, and slurping fresh-from-the-ocean oysters.
The Basics
Most visitors opt to cruise in on a guided day or overnight tour from Hobart. Tours typically visit highlights such as the Cape Bruny Lighthouse, Mount Mangana rainforest, and Adventure Bay. Food tasting tours are also popular, with guides taking visitors to island hot spots such as the Bruny Island Cheese Company, Bruny Island Berry Farm, and other artisan producers. You’ll also stop at some of the best points for wildlife viewing.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is no public transport on the island, and car rentals are only available from the mainland—confirm that your rental insurance covers the island.
- Cell phone coverage can vary throughout Bruny Island, and free Wi-Fi is only available at some hotels and guesthouses.
- Tasmania’s notoriously changeable weather means it’s best to always have a raincoat or umbrella handy, even in summer.
- Some boat cruises, accommodation options, and ferries are wheelchair accessible, but check in advance to avoid disappointment.
How to Get There
Dangling off the southern shore of Tasmania, Bruny Island lies about 25 miles (40 kilometers) south of Hobart. Car ferries run to Bruny from the mainland town of Kettering, a 20-minute cruise across the Tasman Sea, arriving at the Bruny Island Ferry Terminal in North Bruny. The closest airport is Hobart, which offers regular flights to Sydney, Melbourne, and other mainland Australia cities. Once on the island, you’ll need a car or bicycle to get around.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit Bruny Island is summer, when weather is warmer and all the island’s attractions are open. Tours, ferries, and accommodations can be more expensive at this time, however, especially over summer holidays (December to January), and advance bookings are advised. A winter visit can save money, and you’ll get many of the natural wonders to yourself, but check ahead that accommodations and attractions are open.
Bruny Island Wildlife Safaris
Wildlife-spotting opportunities abound on Bruny Island, whether you embark on a wilderness cruise, hike through the South Bruny National Park, or take in the views from Bruny Island Neck. Rare animal sightings include white wallabies, forty-spotted pardalotes, and great white sharks, while more common finds are New Zealand fur seals and southern elephant seals, leatherback turtles, dolphins, penguins, and humpback whales.
Address: Bruny Island Main Road, Bruny Island 7150, Australia
Admission: Free
From $ 11
Broadbeach
Just south of Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, or Broadie as it’s known to locals, offers all the appeal of its more famous neighbor—a great stretch of beach, surf-worthy waves, and extensive dining, shopping, and entertainment options—but in a more manageable size and with fewer crowds.
The Basics
Kurrawa Beach is the main beach in Broadbeach. Featuring a wide stretch of golden sand, it’s an ideal place to sunbathe, swim, or surf, with beach breaks that extend the length of the strand. Nearby Kurrawa Park features a playground and duck pond that will amuse children. Shopping fans can explore the many options at the Oasis Shopping Center and Surf Parade malls, as well as regular arts and crafts markets.
There are many ways for visitors to enjoy Broadbeach and the Gold Coast. Learn to surf, or take a kayak, snorkel, or bushwalk tour to nearby South Stradbroke Island or Wave Break Island. Take to the air in a hot-air balloon ride, or combine a helicopter ride with a heart-thumping jet boat ride. Those looking for something less active can take part in a brewery tour along the coast.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Temperatures in the summer can reach over 80°F (27°C), so don’t forget to pack a hat and sunscreen.
- Swim only in designated areas and when lifeguards are present, as the waves can be strong. Red and yellow flags indicate the beach is patrolled.
- Kurrawa Beach facilities include restrooms, changing facilities, beach showers, and parking.
- Kurrawa Park features an all-abilities playground and includes liberty swings, accessible sand pits, and wheelchair-accessible restrooms.
How to Get There
Broadbeach is located 11 miles (18 kilometers) north of Gold Coast Airport and 56 miles (90 kilometers) south of Brisbane Airport. Taxis and buses are available from both airports to Broadbeach. Those driving should take the Pacific Motorway and exit at Nerang Broadbeach.
When to Get There
April and May have the most comfortable temperatures, consistently sunny days, and the least rainfall. This is also the cheapest time to visit Broadbeach as it’s outside of the school holiday periods. The summer months of December to February can see very warm weather and large crowds. Mid-November to early December can get extremely crowded as it marks the “schoolies” and festival periods, so expect large crowds and higher prices then.
Music Festivals at Broadbeach
Broadbeach hosts a number of popular music festivals throughout the year, including the Blues on Broadbeach Music Festival (May), Broadbeach Jazz Festival (August), and the Groundwater Country Music Festival (July).
Address: Queensland, Australia
From $ 19
Burkes Pass
Burkes Pass is a small town and a mountain pass in South Canterbury. In earlier times a pioneer township, it’s now a heritage site easy to visit when headed to destinations such as the Mackenzie basin, Mt Cook and Queenstown.
The town grew around a hotel that was opened for weary Mackenzie pioneers. At the town’s height, in the late 1800s and early 1900s, it had a population of 143 and a school with three teachers. St Patrick’s Church, built in 1871, is one of New Zealand’s oldest union churches and serves as a landmark in Burkes Pass.
Practical Info
The Burkes Pass Heritage Walk guides visitors through the history of the area while providing a tour of the sites. You can pick up a copy of the walking tour at St Patrick’s Church or The Musterer’s Hut.
Address: Burkes Pass, New Zealand
From $ 155
Brighton Beach
Charming and picturesque, Brighton Beach is a cove on Port Phillip Bay that is adored for its rainbow bathing boxes and views of Melbourne city skyline.
There is classic coastal feel to Brighton Beach, with its bayside cafes, boardwalk, yacht club, boutique shopping and two cinemas nearby. The cove is protected from southerly winds and patrolled by Surf Lifesavers, making it a safe place to swim if you can brave the water temperature.
Along Dendy Street beach, the bathing boxes have earned tourism icon status, offering a splash of colour against the white sandy shore, and giving the cove a European feel. There are 82 coveted bathing boxes in total, built to heritage standards with weatherboard and timber, and owned by local residents.
There is classic coastal feel to Brighton Beach, with its bayside cafes, boardwalk, yacht club, boutique shopping and two cinemas nearby. The cove is protected from southerly winds and patrolled by Surf Lifesavers, making it a safe place to swim if you can brave the water temperature.
Along Dendy Street beach, the bathing boxes have earned tourism icon status, offering a splash of colour against the white sandy shore, and giving the cove a European feel. There are 82 coveted bathing boxes in total, built to heritage standards with weatherboard and timber, and owned by local residents.
Practical Info:
Brighton Beach is a convenient coastal getaway for residents and visitors, located only 11km from central Melbourne, along the south-east edge of Port Phillip Bay. Public trams, trains and buses run from central Melbourne to Brighton Beach; buses 216 and 219 and trains on the Sandringham line are popular options.
Free parking available at Brighton Beach but arrive early to secure a spot. There is also paid parking costing $4 per hour. For a photo opportunity, park a little south at Green Point and follow the walking paths around the coastal point into Brighton to catch a view of the bathing boxes with the city skyline in the background.
Free parking available at Brighton Beach but arrive early to secure a spot. There is also paid parking costing $4 per hour. For a photo opportunity, park a little south at Green Point and follow the walking paths around the coastal point into Brighton to catch a view of the bathing boxes with the city skyline in the background.
Address: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
From $ 72
Bribie Island National Park
Even though it’s only an hour from Brisbane’s big city lights, Bribie Island National Park is about as remote as it gets. Only accessible by 4WD (or in some cases, by boat), the park offers coastal scenery looking back towards Queensland’s coast. When looking across the Pumicestone Passage on the island’s western shore, keep an eye out for dolphins and dugongs splashing within the surf. The Glass House Mountains rise in the west to perfectly frame the sunset, and days on the island are spent exploring the wetlands, dunes, and coast. Pack a picnic and go for a bushwalk from the coastal town of Woorim, or bring along some camping gear for a stay at Ocean Beach. Driving along the beach at low tide is a great way of getting around—although just be sure to watch the tide and know how to drive in sand. For birdwatchers, over 300 species of migratory birds have been spotted here on the island, as have dingoes, wild dogs, and even the occasional emu.
Practical Info
Bribie Island National Park is one hour north of Brisbane and connected by bridge to the Mainland. To drive in the park, travelers require a vehicle access permit, which can be either purchased online beforehand or at a local booking office. There are no facilities within the park, so travelers must carry all their own water as well as food, shelter, and supplies. Facilities are available on the southern coast outside the town of Woorim, and even those without 4WD can hike the network of bushwalking trails that lead from the end of the paved road.
Address: Welsby QLD, Australia
From $ 7
Bronte Beach
Just south of Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach, Bronte Beach offers all the appeal of its neighbor—golden sands, surf-worthy waves, and scores of sun-bronzed holidaymakers—but its smaller size and lighter traffic make it a local favorite. Head here to enjoy a beachside barbecue in Bronte Park, paddle in the rock pools, or put your surf skills to the test.
The Basics
Sydney beach tours often stop for sunbathing and free time at Bronte Beach, which is just a short hop from downtown and en-route to Bondi Beach. For a thrill, take a high-octane speedboat ride from Sydney Harbour to Bondi Beach, or hike the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk—a trail that runs all the way from Bondi in the north to Coogee Beach in the south, passing Bronte Beach and Clovelly Beach along the way.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bronte Beach is a good option for families with kids, with swimming pools and shallower areas that are suitable for younger children.
- Restrooms, showers, and barbecue areas are available along the beach, but bring your own parasol and beach towel.
- Temperatures can reach over 86°F (30°C) in summer, so be sure to pack sunscreen and a hat.
- The waves can be strong at Bronte, so swim only in designated areas and at times when the lifeguards are on patrol.
- Free Wi-Fi hotspots are available around Bronte Beach and Bronte Park.
How to Get There
Bronte Beach is located on the Pacific Coast, in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, about five miles (eight kilometers) southeast of Sydney Harbour. Buses run roughly every 30 minutes from downtown Sydney to Bondi Beach. From there, it’s a 10-minute bus ride to get to Bronte Beach, or about an hour-long stroll on the Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk.
When to Get There
The sun shines at Bronte Beach year-round, but it’s at its hottest and busiest during the summer months (December through February). Visit out of season to avoid the crowds; temperatures can still reach 86°F (30°C) in the spring and autumn months. Or, wake up early and get to the beach in time for sunrise.
Swimming at Bronte Beach
Bronte is renowned for its 90-foot-long (30-meter) ocean pool, which offers a safe spot for swimmers to log some laps. There’s also a natural swimming hole with calmer waters, ideal for families and younger swimmers. Experienced surfers flock to the main beach, where a notorious rip tide dubbed the “Bronte Express” can make swimming more challenging. Luckily, lifeguards from the Bronte Surf Life Saving Club patrol this area.
Address: Bronte Road, Bronte, New South Wales 2024, Australia
Hours: Daily
From $ 93
Bungle Bungles
Purnululu National Park, or the Bungle Bungles, is one the world’s most beautiful areas to be discovered as recently as it has. Not thirty years since its discovery, this majestic 239,723 hectare range located in Kimberley, Australia, features utterly unique and beautiful layered sandstone domes closely resembling beehives.
Once inhabited by aborigines, in this amazing park you will discover gorges, wallabies, and fan palm trees. In the plains surrounding the sandstone domes you can catch exotic plant-life, such as beautiful bright yellow acacia flowers and grevilleas.
The only way to discover the Bungle Bungles is on foot, but with temperatures averaging more than 30 Celsius (86 F), so make sure you come prepared. Luckily, on your journey you will discover fresh-water rock pools, so refilling bottles and going for a dip is only part of the fun.
Once inhabited by aborigines, in this amazing park you will discover gorges, wallabies, and fan palm trees. In the plains surrounding the sandstone domes you can catch exotic plant-life, such as beautiful bright yellow acacia flowers and grevilleas.
The only way to discover the Bungle Bungles is on foot, but with temperatures averaging more than 30 Celsius (86 F), so make sure you come prepared. Luckily, on your journey you will discover fresh-water rock pools, so refilling bottles and going for a dip is only part of the fun.
Practical Info
The most typical way to access the park is by 4-wheelers, which follows
the Spring Creek Track from the Great Northern Highway. If you decide to
make the trip from Kununurra the route is approximately 155 miles long,
quite a hike, however if splurging is an option you possess, you can
catch a helicopter out of Turkey Creek Roadhouse.
Address: Western Australia, Australia
Admission: Camping - Adults: AU$11, Children: AU$2
From $ 296
Bundaberg
Bundaberg is most known for its sugar cane fields, rum production and outdoor recreation. Because of its subtropical climate, sugar cane grows in abundance, which creates the bi-product of molasses for their famous Bundaberg Rum. Visitors can tour the distillery to see how the delicious product is made firsthand before sampling some for themselves.
Bundaberg is also the home to The Bundaberg Barrel, one of "Australia's Big Things," and which houses Bundaberg Brewed Drinks known internationally for their ginger beer.
Bundaberg’s subtropical weather also allows for an array of fresh local produce and ingredients, some of which include avocados, macadamia nuts, pineapples, mangoes, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, cherry tomatoes, watermelons, citrus and much more. In terms of outdoor recreation the Burnett River is lined with parks, while sting ray-free beaches litter the coast. From August through October Bundaberg is a great place to go whale-watching, while November through March brings Giant Turtles to Mon Repos Beach.
Bundaberg is a great starting point for visiting Fraser Island, as you can take the Bruce Highway south to Torbanlea and follow the sign to Hervey Bay. You can take a ferry to Fraser Island from River Heads, located just south of Hervey Bay. Bundaberg is part of the Fraser Island district, and essentially runs parallel to Fraser Island’s northern tip.
Bundaberg is also the home to The Bundaberg Barrel, one of "Australia's Big Things," and which houses Bundaberg Brewed Drinks known internationally for their ginger beer.
Bundaberg’s subtropical weather also allows for an array of fresh local produce and ingredients, some of which include avocados, macadamia nuts, pineapples, mangoes, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, cherry tomatoes, watermelons, citrus and much more. In terms of outdoor recreation the Burnett River is lined with parks, while sting ray-free beaches litter the coast. From August through October Bundaberg is a great place to go whale-watching, while November through March brings Giant Turtles to Mon Repos Beach.
Bundaberg is a great starting point for visiting Fraser Island, as you can take the Bruce Highway south to Torbanlea and follow the sign to Hervey Bay. You can take a ferry to Fraser Island from River Heads, located just south of Hervey Bay. Bundaberg is part of the Fraser Island district, and essentially runs parallel to Fraser Island’s northern tip.
Practical Info
The journey from Bundaberg to Fraser Island takes approximately 1.5 hours. Take the Bruce Highway south to the Fraser Coast and turn off at Torbanlea, following the signs to Hervey Bay. From here take the main road toward River Heads, where you’ll be able to take a ferry over the island.
Address: Bundaberg, QLD, Australia
From $ 615
Broome Courthouse Markets
The Broome Courthouse Markets offer an exciting array of local arts and crafts. There are clothes by local designers and many jewelry stores selling unique wares fashioned from local metal and local stones.
The food stalls are great and offer treats from freshly brewed coffee to Thai fish cakes, to frozen mangoes which are a perfect morning tea in the tropics.
Local animal preservation groups also have stalls here so you might have a chance to cuddle a baby koala or nurse a joey (a baby kangaroo).
The market is held in the grounds of the old courthouse which was built to house staff who worked for the telecommunications companies that owned the cable connecting Australia to Indonesia, which came ashore at Cable Beach and ran across town to the Courthouse.
Practical Info
The market is Saturday and Sunday (although it's bigger on Saturdays) in the dry season, April through November, and just on Saturdays during the wet season, December through March.
The Broome Bus will drop you off at the Broome Motel on Frederick Street across from the markets, or it's a 3 minute walk from Chinatown.
The Broome Bus will drop you off at the Broome Motel on Frederick Street across from the markets, or it's a 3 minute walk from Chinatown.
Address: Corner Hamersley and Weld Streets, Broome, Australia
Hours: 8am - 1pm
Admission: Free
From $ 73