Australia boasts breathtaking stunning canyons and vibrant coral reefs and other remarkable wonders worth experiencing.
1. The Pinnacles, WA
As you walk through The Pinnacles, the limestone formations give an unearthly sensation reminiscent of treading on a lunar surface. Sprouting from sandy mounds in Nambung National Park, these geological marvels appear like petite religious monuments atop colossal sand dunes. Their origin harks back to ages past when seashell residues were left behind by receding tide lines and have now become a must-visit tourist destination just three hours away from Perth.
2. NSW’s Lord Howe Island
Lord Howe Island, which is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, presents a heavenly retreat for all tourists. To maintain its tranquility, only 400 visitors are allowed at any given point of time. Discover the thriving coral reef system and clear lagoon along with iconic twin peaks or observe thousands of seabirds nesting in the marine park area during your stay here. Moreover, there are various amazing accommodations available that suit every budget constraint on Lord Howe Island.
3. QLD’s Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef, which is 25 million years old and a recognized World Heritage site, is the sole living entity that can be observed from space. However, you don’t have to journey far to view it. Situated off Tropical North Queensland’s coast, this vast reef complex spans 3,000km and contains over 400 coral varieties with approximately1 ,500 tropical fish species residing within its waters. Take a peek at our preferred excursions of the Great Barrier Reef below.
4. Kings Canyon, NT
Kings Canyon in the Northern Territory is among Australia’s most awe-inspiring natural phenomena. Its magnificent landscape features towering 100m sandstone walls that dominate the surrounding desert terrain. Tourists can explore walking trails, 4WD tracks, and a remarkable Rim Walk spanning six kilometers while staying at campsites or resorts nearby. The Lost City and Garden of Eden offer glimpses into ancient times for visitors looking to delve deeper into history during their trip down from Alice Springs to Uluru – all making Kings Canyon an unmissable destination on any itinerary through this area of outback Australia.
5. The Three Sisters, NSW
The Three Sisters, composed of towering limestone rocks, emerge from a 760m deep canyon located in proximity to Katoomba town atop a sandstone plateau. The surrounding area is home to some of the planet’s most ancient flora species like the Wollemi pine. Capturing an image at this site features on every explorer’s must-do list; hence you should add it to yours too!
6. Devils Marbles, NT
The valley is adorned with a cluster of colossal boulders, which serve as an awe-inspiring natural spectacle embedded within the antiquated Aboriginal mythos. According to the folklore of ancient times, these Marbles represent the fossilized eggs left behind by none other than Rainbow Serpent itself. Plan a trip to Tennant Creek and bear witness to these gigantic six-meter-high rock formations that have stood for millions of years while delving into Dreaming tales surrounding this geological masterpiece.
7. Shark Bay, Western Australia
The coastline of Shark Bay boasts 1,500km of white sand dunes, limestone cliffs and shallow peninsulas which provide habitat for several threatened marine species including dolphins and 10,000 dugongs. The area also showcases a variety of seagrass growths. Additionally, according to local historians this was the place where Europeans initially landed before deciding against it remarking that it is “no good.”
8. Katherine Gorge, NT
Nestled within the unforgiving landscape of Northern Territory, lies an oasis – Katherine Gorge. This grand landmark boasts towering 70m-high sandstone cliffs and encompasses a network of 13 gorges adorned with thundering falls and rapids that have been around for over two decades, making it one of nature’s most admirable creations. Its immense magnitude makes it a sight to behold for anyone venturing through Top End territory.
9. Bungle Bungle Range, WA
The Kimberley region’s Purnululu National Park boasts the awe-inspiring Bungle Bungle sandstone range, which is an extraordinary geological feature dating back 350 million years. To fully experience this marvel, you must be willing to get your feet dirty and see the towering bell-shaped rock formations that stretch over 578m above ground level. Additionally, explore a stunning array of gorges, tropical pools and caves at eye-level with nature itself.
10. Twelve Apostles, VIC
The Twelve Apostles, a spectacular sight for road trip enthusiasts, were sculpted by the relentless waves of the Southern Ocean. Situated along Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, these limestone structures are slowly deteriorating at an annual pace of two centimetres; however, there is still ample opportunity to witness all eight that remain intact. Are you ready to hit the road? Discover how to embark on a timeless journey along this iconic route!
11. El Questro Wilderness Park, WA
For those seeking complete isolation, El Questro Wilderness Park in East Kimberley could be the perfect destination. Spanning a vast distance of one million acres, this working cattle station is surrounded by rock gorges containing surreal rivers, swimming holes and waterfalls; thermal springs and lookout points add to its appeal. For an unparalleled experience, guests may choose to stay overnight at the luxurious El Questro Homestead.
12. Kakadu, NT
Kakadu, one of our most renowned national parks worldwide, boasts breathtaking scenery. Its striking waterfalls pour into infinity pools while crocodiles linger beneath billabong reeds. The park offers lengthy walks spanning multiple escarpments and rainforests that attract nature enthusiasts alike. Additionally, tourists can visit the Aboriginal rock art sites or take a culture tour to listen to Buninj/Mungguy people share their stories – two of Kakadu’s top activities.
13. Mungo National Park, NSW
Mungo National Park offers a moon-like landscape with quartz and clay dunes, featuring unique formations like the Walls of China. It’s a fascinating site for history buffs, as it contains the ancient remains of Mungo Lady and Mungo Man, dating back about 40,000 years. If you’re curious about what visiting entails, read our review on Mungo National Park below!
14. The NSW’s Warrumbungle National Park
Located just six hours northwest of Sydney, the sole Dark Sky Park in Australia offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the magnificent Milky Way like never before. In addition to gazing at starry night skies that will captivate you, This park also features rock formations such as Breadknife for day-time hikes and exploration. For more detailed stargazing experiences with astronomy presentations included, do not miss out on visiting Warrumbungle Observatory!
15. Grampians National Park, VIC
For those from Melbourne longing for a weekend retreat, the Grampians beckons with its majestic mountains, colorful wildflowers and serene lake surrounded by lush foliage. The area is renowned for multi-day hiking excursions and camping expeditions where visitors can relish in natural wonders such as The Pinnacle lookout, Mackenzie Falls and The Balconies – popular spots among hikers. Additionally, wine enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of Shiraz and Cab Sav that are unique to this region’s wineries.
16. Bay of Fires, TAS
The Bay of Fires is a highly sought-after coastal area in Tasmania, attracting numerous visitors to the island. Adorned with stunning boulders coated in orange lichen, underwater caves and beautiful sandy beaches, this location proves popular among divers, snorkelers, hikers campers as well as day-trippers coming from Launceston.
17. Christmas Island, Crab Migration
Observing the crab migration on Christmas Island is a mesmerizing spectacle akin to attending an enchanted gathering of countless individuals seeking love. Typically, these vibrant red crustaceans inhabit their burrows in forested areas but during the wet season they embark on a journey towards the shore where they can interact with potential mates (of which there are approximately 40 million) before females commence egg-laying. Aside from this awe-inspiring sight, discover other reasons why Christmas Island has become increasingly popular recently.
18. Umpherston Sinkhole, SA
Originally formed by a subterranean cave collapse, this sinkhole was revitalized in 1886 when James Umpherston took on the task of transforming it into a stunning garden. Now, visitors can enjoy both the beautiful gardens and its adorable possum inhabitants that have an affinity for fruit.
19. Kangaroo Island, SA
Renowned for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife, Kangaroo Island is a beloved destination among nature enthusiasts. Its pristine beaches, rugged terrain and refreshing waters offer unmatched tranquility. Visitors can spot Australian icons such as echidnas, koalas, penguins in addition to the namesake marsupials – kangaroos!
20. Queensland’s Mon Repos Conservation Park
This peaceful stretch of shore close to Bundaberg may go unnoticed if you visit at an inopportune time. However, from November through January, it transforms into a nesting ground for female marine turtles that lay their eggs here. Then as the tiny hatchlings emerge between January and March, this area turns into a thriving sanctuary nurturing baby turtles – making it a must-see destination on any adventurer’s list!
21. The Simpson Desert spans across QLD, NT, and SA
When someone mentions the term “Outback”, thoughts often turn to the expansive Simpson desert characterized by its deep red sand and abundant spinifex. To traverse this terrain, a well-equipped 4WD vehicle and thorough preparation are imperative. Despite its ruggedness, various animals such as galahs, kestrels, zebra finches and even large perentie lizards inhabit these vast landscapes. Notably following rainfall events an impressive display of wildflowers can be witnessed throughout this area.
22. Aurora Australis, TAS
The Southern Lights, also known as Aurora Australis, offer a breathtaking spectacle of solar winds that is visible from Tasmania. To get the best view of this display and avoid light pollution in urban areas, it’s recommended to watch during autumn or winter when the moon is new. Mount Wellington remains one of the favorite spots where spectators can enjoy watching dancing colors on full display.
23. Rottnest Island, WA
After a ferry journey from Fremantle, this sandy island became detached from the mainland roughly 7000 years ago. As a result of its separation, it now harbours an unparalleled ecosystem that is home to quokkas – one of their populace’s most notable features. These animals have thrived on the island due in large part to the absence of predators roaming around here.
24. Naracoorte Caves National Park, SA
In the vicinity of Mount Gambier lies a prominent fossil site, renowned globally for giant marsupials that had stumbled into caves half-a-million years ago. Although several caverns are inaccessible to tourists in this underground location, four of them remain open for visitation. Visitors can bask in awe at stalagmites and stalactites while also exploring groups of fossils and pursuing adventure caving expeditions.
