Choose from 646 Fun Things to Do in Australia
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One Arm Point
One Arm Point is an Aboriginal community on the Dampier Peninsula, close to Cape Leveque. Like much of the surrounding area, it stands as a natural wilderness, virtually untouched by modern civilization.
The traditional Aboriginal community that calls One Arm Point home embraces tourism, and visitors to the point come to be immersed in the local culture as much as to marvel at the sweeping views of the Buccaneer Archipelago. The community on One Arm Point is the Bardi Aboriginal Community. Community members teach visitors traditional hunting and fishing techniques, demonstrate how to find and use bush foods and medicines, show how to catch mud crabs, and aims to share with visitors the relationship between the people and the land that exists in many Aboriginal communities. The Bardi also sell local art and jewelry, including jewelry hand carved from trochus shells.
Practical Info
One Arm Point is a three-hour drive north of Broome. The road is unsealed, and strictly 4WD only. It is recommended that visitors plan their trip during winter as the road is often closed in parts during the summer wet season. Accommodation is not available on One Arm Point, however there is accommodation at nearby Cape Leveque.
Address: One Arm Point Rd, Dampier Peninsula, WA, Australia 6725, Australia
From $ 199
Kuranda Koala Gardens
When compared to bustling, coastal Cairns, the village of Kuranda is truly a magical getaway into the forest. At the small but popular Kuranda Koala Gardens, you can infuse your day trip from Cairns to Kuranda with a wildlife adventure, where you can walk through the snake house, observe wombats and ‘roos, and perhaps catch a glimpse of toothy, freshwater crocodiles as they cruise the Kuranda waters. Although Viator tours do not include this activity, visitors can also spend a few seconds holding a koala for an additional fee of $20.
Insider Tip: Crowds tend to be lighter in the morning and the animals are usually more active.
Practical Info
The Kuranda Koala Gardens is located by the Kuranda Heritage Markets, about a ten-minute walk from Kuranda village, or a 40-minute drive northwest from Cairns. You can also reach the gardens by Skyrail or the Kuranda Railway. A free shuttle bus operates between the Skyrail station and gardens, and buses depart every 15 minutes between 10:30am and 3pm. The gardens are open every day from 9am to 4pm, and admission costs $18 for adults and $9 for children.
Koala encounters are supervised by park staff, and comply with the Australian Government’s Code of Practice. You are welcome to bring your own camera for photos, but you only have a couple of seconds to snap a pic with a koala.
Address: Heritage Markets/ 2-4 Rob Veivers Drive, Kuranda QLD 4881, Australia
Hours: 9am–4pm daily
Admission: Adult: $18, Child: $9
From $ 24
Queen Street Mall
Queen Street Mall is the bustling retail vein of Brisbane City, connecting the business district to the Queen Plaza, Wintergarden and The Myer Centre, as well as heritage retail arcades, food outlets and live entertainment. Big brand international retailers and boutique local businesses create a balance of style and charm in the Queen Street Mall.
Known as the cleanest city mall in Australia, Queen Street Mall is a community hub that offers performance space for buskers, community acts and local and international artists, as well as public art highlights.
A tourist information centre, located towards the Edward Street end of the Queen Street Mall, offers mapping, ticketing, tourism and retail information to visitors.
Known as the cleanest city mall in Australia, Queen Street Mall is a community hub that offers performance space for buskers, community acts and local and international artists, as well as public art highlights.
A tourist information centre, located towards the Edward Street end of the Queen Street Mall, offers mapping, ticketing, tourism and retail information to visitors.
Practical Info
In the heart of the city, Queen Street Mall is possibly the best connected area in Brisbane, with Central Train Station, Queen Street Busway, King George Square Bus Station, Roma Street Transit Centre and many city bus connections within minutes of the mall.
Address: Queen St, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
Hours: Most shops are open 9am-5pm Mon-Thur and Saturday. 9am-9pm Friday and 10am-4pm Sunday and public holidays.
From $ 44
Monkey Mia
While some things in nature are easily explained, others remain a mystery. One of those mysteries is at Monkey Mia on Australia's western coast, where wild dolphins pay regular visits to the shoreline to greet humans. The ritual has taken place almost daily for over 50 years, with a handful of dolphins cruising by the shore up to three times per day, making Monkey Mia one of the world's most reliable places for spotting dolphins in the wild. The site is also a research center for dolphin psychology and behavior.
Although the dolphin appearances are unpredictable, rangers lead guided feedings during which select visitors are chosen to offer fish to the bottlenose dolphins under supervision (the amount of food provided to the dolphins is strictly regulated so as not to interfere with their diet). Thanks to ranger supervision, this is the only place in the Shark Bay region where visitors are legally allowed to be within 100 feet of a dolphin, making it easy to make out their sleek outline as they swim through the knee-high, crystalline waters. Dolphins may approach visitors, but guests should note that the animals are wild and should not touch them.
Practical Info
Monkey Mia 527 miles (850 km), or a nine-hour drive, north of Perth in the UNESCO-listed Shark Bay area. The nearest town is Denham, a 30-minute drive away. Monkey Mia day permits cost $12 for adults and $4.50 for children between the ages of 6 and 15.
Address: 1 Monkey Mia Road, Denham, Western Australia 6537, Australia
Hours: Open daily. To see the dolphins it's recommended you get to the beach by 7:30am
Admission: Adults $12, children (6–15) $4.50
From $ 463
Kuranda
The picturesque mountain town of Kuranda is tucked into forest-clad hills 16 miles (25 kilometers) northwest of Cairns in Queensland, Australia. The journey to Kuranda is part of its appeal; visitors get spectacular views of lush forests and towering waterfalls, whether traveling there by train, skyrail, or road. The laid-back town is known for its outdoor markets, eateries, wildlife tours, and alternative vibe.
The Basics
Kuranda is one of the most popular day trip destinations from Cairns. Shoppers can browse art galleries, boutiques, and open-air markets for handicrafts, didgeridoos, and Aboriginal art, while nature lovers can explore Australian wildlife in parks and nature preserves nearby. (Both Kuranda National Park and Barron Gorge National Park form part of the Wet Tropics of Queensland, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.) Many travelers opt to ride an enclosed gondola on the 4.5-mile (7.5-kilometer) Skyrail Rainforest Cableway from Kuranda to Smithfield (1.5 hours with stops at its rain forest stations) or round-trip. Among Kuranda’s other popular attractions are the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Kuranda Koala Gardens, the Reforestation Nature Park, and Birdworld Kuranda.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Kuranda is a kid-friendly destination with activities for all ages, from animal lovers to souvenir shoppers.
- Wear sturdy shoes for strolling around Kuranda and nearby park attractions, where most, but not all, paths are well-maintained with wheelchair-accessible facilities.
- Although Kuranda tends to be cooler than the coast, summers are still hot, with January the warmest month.
How to Get There
To get to Kuranda from Cairns in style and enjoy the scenery, ride 90 minutes one-way on the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway. The 1-hour and 45-minute train trip chugs from downtown Cairns through Barron Gorge National Park to Kuranda, offering clear views of landmarks such as Barron Falls and Stoney Creek Falls. By car or bus, it’s about 30 minutes to Kuranda from Cairns.
When to Get There
Kuranda’s mild climate allows for year-round activity, but the summer wet season from January to March is considered the best time to see Kuranda’s rain forest. The winter months span June to August.
Wildlife in Kuranda
To see wildlife in Kuranda, head to the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, which shelters thousands of butterflies, or the Rainforestation Nature Park, which offers boat tours and the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience. At Kuranda Koala Gardens, travelers can get close to koalas, kangaroos, and crocodiles under the supervision of trained professionals. Head to the Barron River from Kuranda’s town center to take a wildlife-spotting cruise and see freshwater crocodiles, water dragons, and tropical birds.
Address: Condoo Street, Kuranda 4881, Australia
From $ 15
Lake Burley Griffin
The idyllic counterpoint to Canberra’s political center, the manmade Lake Burley Griffin stretches over 664 hectares right at the heart of the capital. Formed in 1963 by the damming of the Molonglo River, the lake has since become not only the city’s natural centerpiece, but an important recreational ground.
Cruises along the lake are a fun way for visitors to admire lakeside attractions like Parliament House, the National Museum of Australia and the Captain James Cook Memorial and Water Jet, while other popular activities include kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, dragon boating and rowing. Miles of parks and recreational areas also line the lakeside and King’s Park, Commonwealth Park, Stirling Park and Weston Park are all favorite local spots, full of walking and biking trails, barbecue and picnic areas, and swimming beaches.
Practical Info
Lake Burley Griffin is located in central Canberra.
Address: Canberra, Australia
From $ 44
Lake Barrine
17,000 years ago, a large volcano erupted in Australia’s north-east corner, near what we now know as the city of Cairns. The core was blasted from this volcano leaving a huge crater, which filled with rainwater over time to create Lake Barrine.
From less-than-peaceful beginnings, Lake Barrine has become the perfect place for a relaxing getaway. A massive body of fresh water tucked within opulent cool rainforest, Lake Barrine is a family friendly, low-key holiday destination with opportunities for hikers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
Visitors looking for relaxation can indulge in tea, scones, jam and cream at the lakeside teahouse, built in 1926, and wander the lush, manicured garden surroundings. Guided boat tours to view the Lake’s distinctive ecosystem are available, while the picnic grounds provide the perfect spot for a family lunch. The clear waters of Lake Barrine make an enjoyable swimming spot for swimmers of all levels of fitness and experience.
Those who would prefer to be more active should explore the World Heritage rainforest that surrounds Lake Barrine, where a network of walking tracks allows for anything from a short stroll to a 5 km hike. The 1,000 year old Twin Kauri Pine trees are the area’s most popular attraction, some over an incredible 45 metres tall and 6 metres in girth. Local wildlife is diverse and abundant, with water dragons, snakes, birds, turtles, eels, all kinds of birds, and even the musky rat-kangaroo are all commonly spotted.
From less-than-peaceful beginnings, Lake Barrine has become the perfect place for a relaxing getaway. A massive body of fresh water tucked within opulent cool rainforest, Lake Barrine is a family friendly, low-key holiday destination with opportunities for hikers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
Visitors looking for relaxation can indulge in tea, scones, jam and cream at the lakeside teahouse, built in 1926, and wander the lush, manicured garden surroundings. Guided boat tours to view the Lake’s distinctive ecosystem are available, while the picnic grounds provide the perfect spot for a family lunch. The clear waters of Lake Barrine make an enjoyable swimming spot for swimmers of all levels of fitness and experience.
Those who would prefer to be more active should explore the World Heritage rainforest that surrounds Lake Barrine, where a network of walking tracks allows for anything from a short stroll to a 5 km hike. The 1,000 year old Twin Kauri Pine trees are the area’s most popular attraction, some over an incredible 45 metres tall and 6 metres in girth. Local wildlife is diverse and abundant, with water dragons, snakes, birds, turtles, eels, all kinds of birds, and even the musky rat-kangaroo are all commonly spotted.
Practical Info
Lake Barrine is located in Crater Lakes National Park, an hour’s drive from Cairns on the Gillies Highway. Tourists are well catered for, but camping and pets are prohibited in the area surrounding the lake. The teahouse is open from 9am to 4pm, every day except Christmas Day.
Address: Lake Barrine, QLD, Australia
From $ 108
Lake Birrabeen
Travelers may flock to the shores of popular Lake McKenzie, but those who head to Fraser Island agree that the quieter Lake Birrabeen is truly among the top spots here. Its clear blue waters and sandy beaches are rarely crowded, offering visitors the atmosphere of a private beach in a public place. Several picnic tables dot the shores of this hidden gem, where swimming and standup paddle boarding prove popular activities. Visitors can hike to the top of nearby sand dunes for spectacular ocean views, too. The lake’s pristine waters, silent shores and remote feel make it the perfect place for weary travelers to unwind and recharge.
Practical Info
Fraser Island is approximately four hours from Brisbane. Several coach buses, as well as the Tilt Train and Sunlander depart from Maryborough and Hervey Bay. Lake Birrabeen is located east of Turkey Island in the southern part of Fraser Island.
Address: Fraser Island, Australia
From $ 274
Ku-ring-gai Chase
Located in northern Sydney, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is the second-oldest national park in the country and a favorite among campers, hikers and nature lovers. Its lush rainforest landscape, quiet creeks and mountain passes lead visitors to forget Ku-ring-gai Chase is still within Sydney city limits, but its incredible views, thick mangroves and scenic drives make it the perfect escape from center city hustle.
The park is on the Australian National Heritage List, and travelers often wander its well-kept walking paths that wind through the Australian jungle. Driving may prove the easiest way to navigate the area, but many visitors prefer to call upon bicycles and horses to explore. An ideal day trip, Ku-ring-gai Chase offers public picnic spaces, paddle and sailboats and scenic overlooks like the Barrenjoey Lighthouse.
Practical Info
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is accessible by car from Turramurra, Mt Colah, Terrey Hills and Church Point. It is open from sunrise to sunset but may close in inclement weather, so it’s best to call ahead during poor conditions. Gates near Bobbin Head and Appletree Bay are closed between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. daily, and gates to West Head are closed from 8:30 p.m. until 6 a.m. Entry fees are $11 per vehicle per day.
Address: Bobbin head Road, North Turramurra, New South Wales, Australia
Hours: Daily
From $ 37
Lake Cootharaba
Lake Cootharaba is the largest of the Noosa Lakes. At about six miles (10 km) long and three miles (5 km) at its widest point, it serves as a popular location for holiday-makers and those on recreational day trips alike. With plenty of places for picnics along its shores, the lake lends itself to family vacations.
The town of Boreen Point is Lake Cootharaba’s activity hub and is the place to start if you're looking for water sports gear. Kayaking, fishing, swimming and sailing are all popular on the water – but there’s much more to Lake Cootharaba than just boats. A number of walks are threaded through the bushland that surrounds the lake, including the 15-mile (25 km) trek around its circumference. There's also a boardwalk through the mangroves on the edge of the lake and a number of campsites within the Great Sandy National Park for those who wish to camp on the lake.
Lake Cootharaba is also known as the gateway to the Noosa Everglades, as the Noosa River passes through the Everglade Wetlands just before spreading into the lake.
Practical Info
The town of Boreen Point is 30 minutes from Noosa Heads by car. It's an easy day trip for visitors to Southern Queensland, as it sits 50 minutes from the Sunshine Coast and two hours from Brisbane.
Address: Noosa, QLD, Australia
From $ 59
Princess Theatre
Melbourne is a large, vibrant city with hundreds of things to do, but none of its attractions are quite as spectacular as historic Princess Theater. Built in 1857 and remodeled in 1886, the theater has hosted many of the world’s top musicals, operas, and shows. The theater’s famously exquisite façade is on par with the best in Europe, and the 1,488 seat theater is adorned in chandeliers.
Perhaps more famous than the building itself—and even some of its shows—is the legend of Frederick Federici, the friendly ghost who’s inhabited the theater since his death in 1888. In a curious end to a theater performance, Federici died of a heart attack while descending through a stage door, and frequent sightings of the actor’s ghost continue up to this day. Aside from the legends and legendary shows, the Princess Theater also hosts the Federici Bistro, where visitors can enjoy both dinner and a show for the best date night in town.
Practical Info
The closest train station to Princess Theater is the one at Parliament Station. It’s also accessible by trams 86, 96, and the free circle city tram. Since the performance lineup is always changing, inquire directly on the theater’s website to find what’s currently on.
Address: 163 Spring St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Admission: Check website for show prices
From $ 41
Kuranda Scenic Railway
Winding its way through the ancient rainforests, dramatic gorges, and UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscapes of Queensland’s tropical north, the Kuranda Scenic Railway is one of Australia’s most spectacular train journeys. Running 23 miles (37 kilometers) from Cairns in the south to Kuranda in the north, the route is a thrilling one. As it passes through an impressive 15 tunnels and across 37 bridges, the railway affords panoramic views of the Barron Gorge National Park.
The Basics
Most tours set out from Cairns, Port Douglas, or the northern beaches, from where it’s a two-hour one-way journey to the end of the line at Kuranda. Passengers can choose standard heritage carriages or the more luxurious Gold Class or Royale Class service, in which refreshments are served. For the best value, combine your tour with other North Queensland activities such as a ride on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, an Army Duck tour of the Rainforestation Nature Park, a helicopter ride over the Great Barrier Reef, or a visit to the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary.
Things to Know Before You Go
- English-language commentary is provided on the train.
- Luggage space is limited, so bring a day bag and be sure to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes if you plan on exploring the rainforest.
- Wheelchair access is available at all stations except Barron Falls station, but it must be requested in advance.
How to Get There
It’s possible to ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway in either direction, starting your journey at Cairns Station, Freshwater Station, or Kuranda Station. Cairns Station is located right in the center of Cairns, about five miles (eight kilometers) or a 1-hour train ride south of Cairns Airport.
When to Get There
The Kuranda Scenic Railway runs twice daily, with morning departures from Cairns and afternoon departures from Kuranda. Trains run year-round, but with no air-conditioning on-board the historic trains, it can get hot in summer.
Natural Landscapes of the Wet Tropics
The Kuranda Scenic Railway runs right through the heart of the UNESCO-protected Wet Tropics, climbing through the jungle-clad mountains of the Barron Gorge. Jump off along the way to marvel at the Barron Falls, admire Stoney Creek Falls, or take a hike through the ancient woodlands, looking out for wildlife such as rainbow lorikeets, wild orchids, and Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroos.
Address: Bunda St, Cairns, Queensland 4870, Australia
Hours: Open daily 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Admission: Varies
From $ 22
Hillarys Boat Harbour
Hillarys Boat Harbour is one of Perth’s most popular seaside playgrounds. Everyone here, from shoppers to whale watchers, can find an activity along the boardwalk that teems with hundreds of visitors. Enjoy the smell of salt on the breeze while cycling along the coast, or relax with a coffee at an outdoor café that looks out over the water. In spring, book a ticket on a whale-watching cruise to watch playful, aerial humpbacks, and birdwatchers can board the ferry to Rottnest Island during any time of the year.
Even if you don’t actually get on a boat, simply strolling the marina docks is a popular Hillary’s pastime. This harbor, after all, was built as part of the America’s Cup in 1988, and world-class yachts and finely polished sailboats still make the marina their home. On sunny days, leave some footprints in the Australian sand on the popular and sheltered beach, and there’s also a playground where families with children can relax along the coast.
Practical Info
Hillary’s Boart Harbor is located 15 miles north of Perth in the coastal town of Hillary’s. The Marina is set on Southside Drive, and with 2,700 parking stalls, there is rarely a problem finding a place to park. Or, to reach the marina by train and bus, take the Joondaloop Line from downtown Perth and exit at the Warwick or Sterling stations. From here, bus 423 will take you directly to the harbor. For whale watching, the best season is from September-early December.
Address: Perth, Western Australia, Australia
From $ 15
Old Melbourne Gaol
Old Melbourne Gaol is a former prison turned museum at the top of Russell St in Melbourne’s CBD. A solid and formidable looking bluestone building, the jail is famous for having housed many of Victoria’s most notorious and infamous criminals, including the bushranger Ned Kelly.
During the Gaol’s operation as a prison between 1845 and 1924, a total of 135 people were hanged here and today’s museum displays the death masks, information and memorabilia that belonged to the prison and its unfortunate inmates.
Rumored to be haunted, the Gaol capitalizes on its reputation by offering night tours and stages a live performance each Saturday relating to the life and death of its most famous inmate, Ned Kelly.
The Old Melbourne Gaol also gives visitors the chance to ‘stand in the shoes’ of a prisoner or a judge inside the City Watch House and the Old Magistrates’ Court. The City Watch House Experience is the chance to be ‘arrested’ and locked in a cell for a short period, while in the Old Magistrates’ Court you can be play at being the accused, judge or jury.
During the Gaol’s operation as a prison between 1845 and 1924, a total of 135 people were hanged here and today’s museum displays the death masks, information and memorabilia that belonged to the prison and its unfortunate inmates.
Rumored to be haunted, the Gaol capitalizes on its reputation by offering night tours and stages a live performance each Saturday relating to the life and death of its most famous inmate, Ned Kelly.
The Old Melbourne Gaol also gives visitors the chance to ‘stand in the shoes’ of a prisoner or a judge inside the City Watch House and the Old Magistrates’ Court. The City Watch House Experience is the chance to be ‘arrested’ and locked in a cell for a short period, while in the Old Magistrates’ Court you can be play at being the accused, judge or jury.
Address: 377 Russell St, Melbourne, Australia
Hours: Open 9:30am-5pm daily. Closed Good Friday and Christmas.
Admission: Adults $25; Children $13.50
From $ 20
Old Treasury Building
When visiting Melbourne’s Old Treasury building, travelers are left to decide for themselves which fact is more spectacular: That this striking example of Renaissance Revival architecture was designed by a prodigious 19 year old, or that the entire building was expressly built as a vault for housing gold. Constructed in 1858 in response to Australia’s Gold Rush, the Old Treasury building has vault walls that are over three feet thick, in addition to dozens of office buildings that even today are filled by members of Melbourne’s local government. In addition to the imposing building itself, which was built in the Italian “palazzo” style that was popular in the 19th century, visitors will find rotating exhibitions on the building and Melbourne’s past, from those depicting the flow of gold from the mines to the vault and wealthy elite, to a panorama of the cityscape from 1862.
Practical Info
Free floor talks are held twice per month with historians and members of the local community, and a full calendar of upcoming events is available on the Old Treasury website.
Address: 20 Spring Street, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia VIC 3002, Australia
Hours: Open Sun-Fri 10am-4pm
From $ 51
Puffing Billy Railway
Chugging its way through the rugged bushlands, fern gullies, and ancient woodlands of the Dandenong Ranges, the Puffing Billy Railway is one of Australia’s most scenic train journeys. The spectacular views of the Yarra Valley are just part of the experience—the historic steam engines, Victorian-style interiors, and open-air carriages that allow for dangling legs make it a fun and memorable activity for the whole family.
The Basics
It’s possible to ride the Puffing Billy steam train in either direction, but most passengers start at Belgrave Station. From there, it’s 15 miles (25 kilometers) or 1 hour and 50 minutes one-way to Gembrook Station, with passage over the Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge and stops at Menzies Creek, Emerald, Lakeside, and Cockatoo. Tours from Melbourne often combine a ride on the historic railway with other regional highlights such as the Healesville Sanctuary, wine tasting at Yarra Valley wineries, a Melbourne city tour, or a visit to Penguin Parade on Phillip Island.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tickets sell out, especially during the summer holidays, so book ahead to avoid disappointment.
- All stations have parking, restrooms, and a cafe or snack bar.
- Luggage space is limited, so bring a small day bag and opt for a fold-up stroller.
- Steam locomotives are sometimes replaced with diesel locomotives during Total Fire Ban (when dry weather increases the risk of forest fires).
- Wheelchair access is available at all stations, but spaces are limited and must be booked in advance.
How to Get There
The Puffing Billy Railway runs from Belgrave to Gembrook through the foothills of the Blue Dandenong Ranges in the Yarra Valley. The starting point of the railway is at Belgrave Station, 25 miles (40 kilometers) east of Melbourne. Trains run to Belgrave from Flinders Street Station in the city—just follow the blue line from Belgrave Station that leads to Puffing Billy Station, a short walk away. If you’re driving, it's around an hour's drive from downtown Melbourne.
When to Get There
The Puffing Billy Railway runs around four times daily, with both morning and afternoon departures from Belgrave. Trains run year-round, but they get crowded in summer, so it’s best to book ahead.
Special Events Aboard the Puffing Billy
For something more, book tickets for the special Steam & Cuisine journeys and dine aboard the century-old steam train, or enjoy a themed Jazz or Murder Mystery train ride by night. Those with kids in tow can treat the little ones to a Day out with Thomas, when Puffing Billy is transformed into Thomas the Tank Engine, or ride on the Santa Special Christmas trains.
Address: Puffing Billy Station, 1 Old Monbulk Road, Belgrave 3160, Australia
Hours: Open daily, except Christmas Day
Admission: varies
From $ 76
Qantas Hangar
When Qantas was established in 1920, it started with an airplane used primarily for joy rides that sometimes delivered the mail. Just 14 years later, in 1934, the city of Darwin had become integral to air service between Australia and Europe, that Qantas airlines—with its multiple planes—ordered construction of a steel air hangar set right on the outskirts of Darwin. It was used by Qantas, as well as Guinea, which ran regional flights down to Adelaide, though that all changed when the Japanese bombed the city in 1942. Heavily damaged by Japanese bombs, the hangar was fixed, sold, and passed to multiple different businesses, before the Motor Vehicle Enthusiasts Club signed a lease on the building in 1999. Today the hangar holds cars—not aircraft—beneath its 20-foot roof, and has gradually become the ultimate “man cave” escape when visiting Darwin. Here you’ll find engines, classic cars, and even an old-fashioned steam train, and the hangar is a popular stop on small group scooter tours of the town.
Insider Tip: When wandering around the Qantas Hangar, keep an eye out for pieces of the hangar that are marked with orange spray paint, which denotes sections of the building that were damaged in the WWII bombing of Darwin.
Practical Info
Though the hangar is open for public visits, there are “Open Days” around February 19th and the first Sunday in September, when hundreds of people descend on the hangar to chat about airplanes and cars.
Address: 22 McDonald Street, Parap, Northern Territories, Australia
Hours: 8am-5pm Monday-Friday, 8am-12pm Sunday
From $ 33
Lake McKenzie
Awe-inspiring Lake McKenzie is possibly one of the world’s most beautiful lakes. It is also one of the world’s least polluted and a swim in the crystal-clear freshwater will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
The lake is a “perched lake,” meaning it sits atop a sand dune where the sand and humus underneath have bonded into a concrete-like base. The lake isn't connected to streams or the ocean, which means all the water is pure rainwater. The sand also acts as a filter keeping the water clear, and makes for an amazing experience when relaxing in the lake.
Fraser Island is home to forty of the world’s eighty perched lakes, and like the many other freshwater lakes on the island, Lake McKenzie relies solely on rain for replenishment.
The sand surrounding the lake is pure silica so you can wash your hair with it or exfoliate your skin, perfect if you’ve been camping for days. There are a lot of delightful picnic areas and stunning beaches around the lake, which makes it perfect for an afternoon trip or a multiple day excursion.
The lake is a “perched lake,” meaning it sits atop a sand dune where the sand and humus underneath have bonded into a concrete-like base. The lake isn't connected to streams or the ocean, which means all the water is pure rainwater. The sand also acts as a filter keeping the water clear, and makes for an amazing experience when relaxing in the lake.
Fraser Island is home to forty of the world’s eighty perched lakes, and like the many other freshwater lakes on the island, Lake McKenzie relies solely on rain for replenishment.
The sand surrounding the lake is pure silica so you can wash your hair with it or exfoliate your skin, perfect if you’ve been camping for days. There are a lot of delightful picnic areas and stunning beaches around the lake, which makes it perfect for an afternoon trip or a multiple day excursion.
Practical Info
The lake is only accessible by 4WD or as part of a tour. If you’re going it alone it is an easier drive from the River Head ferry terminal.
Address: Great Sandy National Park, Fraser Island, QLD 4581, Australia
From $ 141
Lake Cooroibah
Lake Cooroibah is one of the central locations on Noosa’s North Shore, with its local Aboriginal name meaning "places of possums."
The large lake lies just to the north of Tewantin and Sir Richard Branson’s private Makepeace Island in the Noosa River. Relatively shallow, Lake Cooroibah is a popular destination among the locals–the southern entrance to the lake in particular is frequented for fishing. A sandbar at the northern end appears at low tide, offering the perfect place for picnics on the sand. This is a fantastic place to relax in the afternoon with opportunities for swimming and great views of the surrounds. Visitors can see the Noosa hinterland and the nearby Mt Cooroy, Mt Tinbeerwah and Mt Cooroora from the lake, while the Noosa Everglades lie to the north.
Practical Info
Lake Cooroibah is about a 20-minute drive from Noosa Heads, along the Noosa River. There’s also an hourly bus from Noosa Heads that arrives here. The lake lies about 40 minutes north of the Sunshine Coast and a two-hour drive north of Brisbane.
Address: Tewantin, QLD, Australia
From $ 59
Lady Musgrave Island
Lady Musgrave Island, the second largest island in the Great Barrier Reef, is most easily accessible from the town of 1770. Its scenic shores, crystal clear waters and close proximity to some of the best diving and snorkeling on earth make it a popular destination for travelers and adventurers.
Regular ferry service transports visitors to the semi-enclosed lagoon, where travelers can deboard and head to one of the island’s popular camping sites, hike along the well-kept trails or embark on an underwater ocean adventure. A large number of birds, including the white-capped Noddy Terns, Wedge-tailed Shearwaters and Buff-banded Rails—as well as hundreds of other indigenous species—call Lady Musgrave home, which means land-loving bird watchers will enjoy a trip to the island, too.
Practical Info
Lady Musgrave Island can be reached by excursion boat from the Town of 1770. Travelers warn it’s best to be prepared for seasickness, as the 75-minute trip to the island can be choppy, but worth it. Snorkeling and diving tours are a popular option among visitors, but glass bottom boat tours still offer those who prefer to stay dry an opportunity to explore the reef.
Address: Lady Musgrave Island, Queensland, Australia
Hours: Daily
From $ 162