The Ultimate Bucket List: 30 Places to Visit in Australia Before You Die
Australia captivates travelers with its diverse landscapes, unique wildlife, and vibrant cities. From pristine beaches to ancient rainforests, this vast continent offers countless places to visit in Australia that leave a lasting impression. The country’s natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and outdoor adventures make it a dream destination for explorers of all kinds.
This ultimate bucket list highlights 30 must-see places to go in Australia before you die. It covers iconic sites like the Sydney Opera House and Great Barrier Reef, as well as hidden gems such as Lord Howe Island and the Bungle Bungles. Readers will discover coastal marvels, outback adventures, wildlife encounters, and bustling urban centers that showcase the best of Australia’s stunning beauty and rich culture.
Snorkeling and diving experiences
For those eager to explore the underwater world, snorkeling and diving are must-do activities. The reef offers world-class snorkeling and dive sites, each with its unique characteristics. Visitors can choose from various locations such as Hasting Reef, Breaking Patches, Norman Reef, or Saxon Reef. These sites provide opportunities to swim amongst stunning coral formations, encounter giant clams, and witness the vibrant marine ecosystem up close.
Certified divers can enjoy complimentary dives, while beginners can opt for introductory dives with expert guidance. The experience of diving in the Great Barrier Reef is truly exceptional, allowing visitors to understand why it’s considered one of the best dive sites in the world.
Explore the Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef, one of the most iconic places to visit in Australia, offers an unparalleled underwater experience. Spanning over 2,300km down Australia’s eastern coastline, this natural wonder has an abundance of coastal experiences that leave visitors in awe. The reef is home to a diverse array of marine life, including over 1,600 species of fish, rare whale species, and six of the world’s seven marine turtle species. Check out this guide to The Great Barrier Reef.
Best islands to visit
The Great Barrier Reef is dotted with over 600 continental islands, each offering a unique experience. For those seeking a luxurious getaway, Lizard Island stands out. Located directly on the reef, it provides exceptional access to the coral ecosystem. Visitors can simply step off the sugar-white sand beach and find themselves among giant clam gardens, manta rays, and schools of fish.
Lady Elliot Island, the southernmost coral cay of the Great Barrier Reef, is another excellent choice. Known as the ‘Home of the Manta Ray’, it’s a paradise for nature lovers. The island offers two snorkeling trails accessible straight from the beach, along with daily glass-bottom boat tours and snorkel safaris.
For a family-friendly option, Heron Island offers a perfect blend of nature and comfort. Visitors can dive on the reef, witness turtle hatchlings leaving their nests, and observe migratory birds heading back to the Arctic.
Marine life encounters
The Great Barrier Reef has some incredible marine encounters, some of which can be experienced nowhere else on the planet. One such unique experience is encountering Dwarf Minke Whales in the northern Ribbon Reefs during June and July. These playful cetaceans, about 8 to 9 meters long, often approach divers and snorkelers within inches.
Manta rays are another highlight, especially around Lady Elliot Island. Over 2,000 individual manta rays have been identified in the surrounding waters. During the mating season between May and August, divers and snorkelers have reported seeing manta trains of over 20 individuals.
For those interested in larger marine life, the reef is home to giant potato cods. These friendly, human-sized fish can be encountered at the famous Cod Hole dive site on the northern Ribbon Reefs.
Shark enthusiasts can experience the shark spectacular at North Horn, Osprey Reef. Here, divers can observe various shark species in a natural coral amphitheater.
The Great Barrier Reef truly offers a wealth of experiences for all types of visitors. Whether you’re snorkeling for the first time, an experienced diver, or simply want to relax on a beautiful island, the reef has something for everyone. It’s no wonder that this Australian destination is on most travelers’ bucket lists of places to visit in Australia.
Discover the Outback
The Australian Outback offers a unique and awe-inspiring experience for travelers seeking to explore some of the most iconic places to visit in Australia. This vast and rugged landscape is home to ancient wonders, rich Aboriginal culture, and diverse wildlife.
Uluru and Kata Tjuta
Uluru is undoubtedly one of the most famous places to go in Australia. This massive sandstone monolith rises 348 meters high and has a circumference of 9.5 kilometers, making it the largest sandstone monolith in the world. Nearby, the 36 giant domes of Kata Tjuta spread over 20 kilometers, creating a breathtaking sight.
These ancient rock formations have deep spiritual significance for the local Anangu people, who have lived in the area for over 30,000 years. Visitors can immerse themselves in Aboriginal culture by exploring the Cultural Center, which showcases art galleries and cultural presentations.
To fully appreciate the beauty of Uluru, consider taking a sunrise or sunset tour. The changing colors of the rock during these times create a mesmerizing spectacle. For a unique experience, the Field of Light exhibition features over 50,000 solar-powered stems that illuminate the base of Uluru.
Kakadu National Park
Kakadu National Park, Australia’s largest national park, is another must-visit destination in the Outback. Located about three hours’ drive from Darwin, this World Heritage-listed site offers a diverse range of experiences for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
One of the highlights of Kakadu is its rich Aboriginal rock art. At Nourlangie Rock, visitors can take a 1.5-kilometer circular walk through ancient shelters and view some of Australia’s most outstanding rock art sites. The nearby Anbangbang Billabong provides stunning views of Nourlangie between May and November.
For wildlife enthusiasts, a cruise on the Yellow Water Billabong is a must-do activity. Home to one-third of Australia’s bird species, this area offers opportunities to spot crocodiles, wallabies, and various other animals in their natural habitat.
Coober Pedy underground town
Coober Pedy, known as the “opal capital of the world,” is a unique underground town located in the heart of the Outback. This fascinating settlement has adapted to the harsh desert climate by building many of its structures underground, including homes, hotels, and even shops.
Visitors can tour the town and learn about its history, including a visit to the Serbian Orthodox Church, an impressive underground structure with rock carvings and stained glass windows. The Umoona Opal Mine and Museum offers insights into the town’s opal mining heritage and Aboriginal culture [10].
For a truly unique experience, travelers can try their luck at finding opals at the Quest Opal Mine, where they can don a hard hat and use a pick to search for their own fortune. Golf enthusiasts might be surprised to find a grassless golf course in Coober Pedy, which has reciprocal playing rights with St Andrews in Scotland.
The Outback offers countless opportunities for adventure and cultural immersion. From the iconic Uluru and Kata Tjuta to the wildlife-rich Kakadu National Park and the underground wonders of Coober Pedy, these places to visit in Australia showcase the diverse and captivating nature of the country’s interior. Each destination provides a unique perspective on the ancient landscape and the rich cultural heritage that makes the Australian Outback truly special.
Experience Coastal Wonders
Australia’s coastline offers a plethora of breathtaking experiences for travelers. From pristine beaches to iconic road trips, the coastal wonders of this vast continent are among the most sought-after places to visit in Australia. Let’s explore some of the must-see coastal destinations that showcase the country’s natural beauty.
Whitehaven Beach
Whitehaven Beach, located in the Whitsunday Islands, is often considered one of the best beaches in Australia. This stunning 7-kilometer stretch of silica sand and crystal-clear blue water is a true paradise. What sets Whitehaven Beach apart is its unique composition – the sand is 98% pure silica, giving it a dazzling white appearance and keeping it cool underfoot even on the hottest days.
As part of the Whitsunday Islands National Park, Whitehaven Beach remains pristine and undeveloped. Visitors won’t find beach bars or overflowing trash cans here, just an untouched natural wonder with abundant native wildlife. It’s no surprise that Whitehaven Beach was awarded the title of Best Beach in the World in 2021 by TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Award.
To experience this coastal gem, most visitors join a Whitehaven Beach tour from Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsundays. Options range from exhilarating jet boat rides to luxury yacht cruises. For a truly unique perspective, consider a helicopter tour or seaplane flight, offering breathtaking aerial views of the beach and surrounding islands.
Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most popular road trips and a must-visit destination for those exploring the country’s coastal wonders. This 243-kilometer winding coastal drive stretches from Torquay to Allansford along the southwest coast of Victoria, offering a perfect blend of spectacular coastal scenery and dense rainforests of the Great Otway National Park.
One of the highlights of the Great Ocean Road is the section from Aireys Inlet to Apollo Bay, where the road hugs the edge of the coast, providing stunning ocean views. Along the way, travelers can stop at various lookout points, beaches, and coastal towns, each offering its own unique charm.
The journey along the Great Ocean Road culminates at the iconic Twelve Apostles, a series of limestone stacks rising dramatically from the Southern Ocean. These natural rock formations are a must-see for anyone exploring the Great Ocean Road and are rightly on everyone’s bucket list of places to visit in Australia.
Bondi to Coogee coastal walk
For those seeking to experience Australia’s beach culture up close, the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk in Sydney is an excellent choice. This 6-kilometer trail takes visitors along some of Sydney’s most beautiful beaches, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into the local lifestyle.
Starting at the world-famous Bondi Beach, the walk passes by the Bondi Icebergs swimming club, one of Australia’s most photographed pools. As you continue along the paved path, you’ll encounter several other beautiful beaches, including Tamarama, Bronte, and Clovelly, before reaching Coogee Beach.
The walk takes about two to three hours to complete, depending on how often you stop. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the local cafes and restaurants. It’s a perfect way to experience the laid-back beach lifestyle that Australia is famous for.
These coastal wonders showcase the diverse beauty of Australia’s shoreline and offer unforgettable experiences for travelers. Whether you’re seeking pristine beaches, dramatic coastal scenery, or vibrant beach culture, these destinations are among the best places to visit in Australia for coastal exploration.
Immerse in Wildlife Encounters
Australia offers unique opportunities to get up close and personal with its diverse wildlife. From iconic kangaroos to adorable penguins, the country has an abundance of places to visit in Australia for unforgettable animal encounters.
Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island, off the coast of South Australia, is a wildlife lover’s paradise. This unspoiled wilderness is home to an incredible variety of native animals. Visitors can spot kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, echidnas, and numerous bird species in their natural habitats. The island’s diverse ecosystems, from pristine beaches to dense forests, provide ideal conditions for wildlife to thrive.
One of the best places to observe koalas is the Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. Located between Flinders Chase National Park and Kelly Hill Conservation Park, this 5000-acre site offers self-guided and guided tours of its Koala Walk. Visitors are guaranteed to spot at least a few fuzzy koala bears, along with other native wildlife.
For those seeking a more comprehensive wildlife experience, the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park is home to over 150 species of native Australian animals. Here, visitors can observe and interact with wombats, quolls, penguins, and even crocodiles.
Phillip Island penguin parade
One of the most sought-after wildlife experiences in Australia is the Phillip Island Penguin Parade. Located just a short drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island is home to the largest little penguin colony in the world. Every evening, visitors can witness the magical sight of these adorable seabirds waddling home from the ocean to their burrows.
The Penguin Parade offers various viewing options to suit different preferences. The main viewing platform provides a 180-degree view of the penguins crossing the beach. For a more intimate experience, the Penguins Plus platform offers an up-close view of the penguins, limited to just 300 people. There’s even an underground viewing area for those who want to watch the parade from below.
To enhance the experience, the Penguin Parade Visitor Center provides educational exhibits about the penguins’ lives and habitats. Visitors can learn about ongoing research and conservation efforts to protect these fascinating creatures.
Swim with whale sharks in Ningaloo Reef
For an awe-inspiring marine encounter, swimming with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef is a must-do experience. Ningaloo Reef, stretching over 300km along Western Australia’s coastline, is one of the few places in the world where whale sharks reliably congregate each year.
Whale shark tours typically operate from March through June in Coral Bay and until early August in Exmouth. These full-day experiences offer the chance to snorkel alongside these gentle giants, the world’s largest fish. Despite their massive size, whale sharks are harmless filter feeders, primarily consuming plankton and small fish.
The tours are responsibly run by licensed professionals to ensure a sustainable and eco-friendly experience. Many operators offer a ‘no sighting’ policy, allowing guests to join the next available tour free of charge if they don’t encounter a whale shark.
Going to Perth to experience swimming with these beautiful creatures is next on our Australian bucket list.
These wildlife encounters showcase the incredible biodiversity of Australia’s ecosystems and provide unforgettable experiences for nature enthusiasts. Whether it’s observing kangaroos and koalas on Kangaroo Island, watching penguins waddle home on Phillip Island, or swimming with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef, these are truly some of the most remarkable places to visit in Australia for wildlife lovers.
Explore Vibrant Cities
Australia’s cities offer a vibrant blend of culture, history, and modern attractions, making them some of the most exciting places to visit in Australia. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, these urban centers showcase the country’s diverse character and provide unforgettable experiences for visitors.
Sydney Opera House and Harbor Bridge
No trip to Australia is complete without experiencing the architectural marvels of Sydney. The Sydney Opera House, with its distinctive sail-like design, stands as a testament to human creativity and innovation. Visitors can immerse themselves in the building’s rich history and cultural significance by joining a guided tour. These tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at the venue’s fascinating stories and insider experiences.
For those seeking a truly unique experience, the Sydney Opera House offers an exclusive “Star at the Sydney Opera House” opportunity. This once-in-a-lifetime experience includes a wig and costume fitting, culminating in a walk-on role with the chorus of Opera Australia. It’s an unforgettable way to become part of the Opera House’s legacy and one of the most extraordinary things to do in Sydney.
The Sydney Harbor Bridge, another iconic landmark, provides breathtaking views of the city and harbor. Visitors can take in the panoramic vistas by walking or cycling across the bridge, or for the more adventurous, participating in the famous Bridge Climb.
Melbourne’s laneways and coffee culture
Melbourne’s charm lies in its intricate network of laneways, where the city’s true character comes to life. These narrow alleys are adorned with vibrant street art, creating an ever-changing outdoor gallery that showcases the work of local and international artists. Hosier Lane, known as the king of Melbourne’s laneway art scene, is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, offering a kaleidoscope of colors and thought-provoking murals.
The laneways are also home to Melbourne’s renowned coffee culture, a legacy of Greek and Italian immigrants who introduced espresso to the city in the early 20th century. Hidden cafes and hole-in-the-wall establishments serve up some of the best brews in town, each with its unique character and charm. Spots like Cup of Truth and Manchester Press are local favorites, known for their exceptional coffee and inviting atmospheres.
For those looking to explore beyond the laneways, Melbourne offers a rich cultural scene. The National Gallery of Victoria houses an impressive collection of over 70,000 works of art, while the Australian Center for the Moving Image provides an immersive experience into the world of film and digital culture.
Melbourne has quickly became a family favourite for us and we now aim to go at least once a year, While the local taxis can be a bit lacking, the inner city tram network is easy to use and understand.
Brisbane’s South Bank Parklands
Brisbane’s South Bank Parklands is a 17-hectare urban oasis that showcases the best of the city’s lifestyle. This vibrant precinct along the river bank offers a perfect blend of cultural attractions, outdoor spaces, and dining options. Visitors can enjoy iconic features such as the Wheel of Brisbane, the inner-city beach Streets Beach, and the blossom-covered Arbor.
The parklands are home to several must-see attractions. The Arbor, with its 443 curls of galvanized steel draped in climbing flowers, provides a picturesque walkway through the area. Streets Beach, an artificial beach overlooking the CBD, offers a unique urban beach experience right in the heart of the city.
For those interested in cultural experiences, the nearby Queensland Cultural Center houses the Queensland Art Gallery, Gallery of Modern Art, and Queensland Museum. These institutions offer a diverse range of exhibitions and performances, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Australia’s rich artistic and cultural heritage.
After living in Brisbane for almost 10 years, Southbank became a part of normal life and is still one of my favorite spots in the city. The area has just undergone a major renovation with new rock pools and toddler paddle pools.
Conclusion
Australia’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities offer a wealth of experiences for travelers. From the underwater wonders of the Great Barrier Reef to the rugged beauty of the Outback, and from pristine beaches to bustling urban centers, this vast continent has something to captivate every visitor. The unique wildlife encounters and rich cultural heritage add depth to the journey, making Australia a truly unforgettable destination.
To wrap up, this bucket list of 30 places to visit in Australia showcases the country’s natural marvels, cultural landmarks, and urban attractions. Whether you’re drawn to coastal wonders, wildlife experiences, or city explorations, Australia promises adventures that will leave a lasting impression. By visiting these diverse destinations, travelers can gain a deeper appreciation for Australia’s stunning beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality.
