Things to do in Australia | A Sydney Vacation with All the Australia Highlights

Posted on: May 13th, 2016 by Melissa Maxwell No Comments

How to see the best of Australia on a short vacation to Sydney.

People visit Australia because it is an amazing country that has a lot to offer. As Australian Travel Experts (we’ve been sending our clients to Australia since 1999), we’ve narrowed down the Australian experience to 7 main highlights everyone should to fit into their Australian vacation: Beaches & Aquatic Life, Wildlife, Rainforests, Outback, Food & Wine, Modern City Culture & Arts and Indigenous Culture.

Obviously the best way to see all the great Australian Highlights is to visit a variety of Australian cities.

  • Melbourne has an amazing and unique City, Arts & Cafe Culture;
  • Cairns & Port Douglas offer access to the Great Barrier Reef and the Rainforest;
  • Brisbane allows you to see the Great Barrier Reef and Steve Irving’s (the crocodile hunter’s) famous Australian Zoo;
  • Ayer’s Rock showcases the best of the Outback and Aboriginal experiences;
  • Adelaide gives you access to the country’s largest wine region, most robust produce market and most amazing wildlife sanctuary, Kangaroo Island and;
  • Sydney is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities on earth (plus there’s the Sydney Opera House, Darling Harbour and Sydney Harbour Bridge).

But many people don’t have the time or luxury to travel across the great continent of Australia (it’s nearly the same size as the US).

That’s ok – no worries! You can still experience all the main highlights just by visiting one or two cities and staying just 5-7 days downunder.

Here’s how you can make it happen in Sydney.

Beaches & Aquatic Life

Take a secluded dip in calm blue waters.

Enjoy the feeling of your toes in the soft white sand.  

 

Take an invigorating swim in the ocean or simply relax in the sun.

Learn to surf or just watch the surfers catch some waves.

Cruise out on the Harbour…  

The bridge to our heart. #ilovesydney Photo taken at Mrs Macquaries Chair by @gustapratama A photo posted by Sydney Australia (@sydney) on

 

… or venture further for some whale watching.

Whale watching Sydney #whale #wildlife #Sydney #sydneyharbour #ocean

A photo posted by Will Giles (@willgilesuk) on

Get to know the marine life of the South Pacific at the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium.  

 

Wildlife

Sydney maybe a thriving metropolitan, but you can still find plenty of opportunities to see the local wildlife. Find Kangaroos, Koalas, Wallabies and more!

Visit the Taronga Zoo.

Get up-close at the WILDLIFE Sydney Zoo.

 

Rainforest

Australia is known for the rainforests of Tropical North Queensland, but you can see rainforests on a day trip from Sydney.

Just two hours south of Sydney, hike the Minnamurra Rainforest in Budderoo National Park.

Closer to Sydney you can find pockets of rainforest in The Blue Mountains.

 

Outback

While not red, like Australia’s Red Centre, Sydney’s Outback still offers fun experiences for any lover of nature. Bushwalk in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.  

J e r u s a l e m B a y || n s w #jerusalembay A photo posted by e m i l y g r a h a m (@_emilyke) on

 

Take an adventure to the cliffs at North Head Reserve.

From West Head to North Head, great start of the week! #northhead #ocean #sydney #northernbeaches #manly

A photo posted by Natasa Milosevic (@hangrikapkejk) on

Breathe deep in the Blue Mountains World Heritage Area – one million hectares of sandstone cliffs, bushland, waterfalls and eucalyptus forest.  

 

 

Food & Wine

Sydney is a top foodie destination with a city full of talented chefs, superb fresh produce, and cultural and culinary influences from across the world. There are many eating options, from casual and affordable cafés and pubs, to award-winning restaurants on Sydney Harbour. Seafood is caught daily in the clean waters of the Pacific Ocean. Skilled winemakers produce a wide variety of award-winning wines.

Discover quality restaurants in the vineyards serving fresh local produce matched with local wines.

You’ll find amazing food and views at Quay…

This view never gets old #regram @nik_to #Quay #PeterGilmore #sydney #Australia #RestaurantAustralia

A photo posted by QUAY (@quayrestaurant) on

and artful presentation at Sepia.  

Nigiri @martinbennsepia A photo posted by Sepia Restaurant (@sepiasydney) on

 

Just, “Yum!”

Hunter Valley Wine Region can be reached in under 2 hours. Australia’s oldest growing wine region is renowned for its fine dining, cooking schools, galleries, health spas and golf courses.

 

Modern City Culture & Art

Catch an opera performance at the Sydney Opera House or right on the Harbour during Handa Opera on the Harbour.

Enjoy art at the Art Gallery of New South Whales.

 

Sol, calor, céu azul = #museum #sightseeing #sydney #art #gallery #museum #nerd #holidays #traveling #pop

A photo posted by Sabrina Matuda (@sabrinamatuda) on

 

Visit during Vivid Sydney for a city wide celebration of Light and Art.

Indigenous Culture

A historic walking tour through The Rocks. Learn how Aboriginal people lived in Sydney before the first European settlement on a Dreamtime adventure.

Take an Aboriginal Cultural Cruise on Sydney Harbour. Discover the stories of the Eora, Cadigal, Guringai, Wangal, Gammeraigal and Wallumedegal people.

Photo credit: James Horan Tribal Warrior cultural performers A photo posted by Tribal Warrior (@tribalwarriorassociation) on

Visit the Australian National Heritage site, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park to see thousand year-old rock engravings.

 

 

So whether you’re traveling to Australia for 3 weeks, a month or 7 days, you can make your trip across the pacific worth it, if you plan ahead. We’re happy to help with the planning! Contact us and your very own personal Destination Specialist will call you to discuss your dream vacation. Then our team of logistical professionals will book your trip and take care of all the details. Start by telling us what you want to do!

Get-A-Trip-Quote or Phone us Toll Free on 1-888-359-2877 (CT USA, M-F 8.30am – 5pm).

Things to do in Australia | A Melbourne Vacation with All the Australian Highlights

Coming Soon:

Things to do in Australia | A Brisbane Vacation with All the Australian Highlights

Things to do in Australia | An Adelaide Vacation with All the Australian Highlights

Things to do in Australia | A Cairns Vacation with All The Australian Highlights

Things to do in Australia | A Perth Vacation with All the Australian Highlights.

Eating Out in Australia’s Outback – Amazing Dining Experiences in Uluru

Posted on: March 22nd, 2016 by Melissa Maxwell No Comments

When visiting the Red Centre & Uluru, you’ll being staying at Yulara (Ayer’s Rock Resort), a collection of hotels and resorts that cater to different budgets and tastes, all conveniently located on one property.  The best tip we can give you is to try the restaurants located in other hotels.  Don’t just stick to the options located in your particular hotel. There’s even a free shuttle that will take you around to the location of your choice.  Honestly, the experience is a bit like being on a cruise ship surrounded by sand, except nothing is included.

But it’s actually still pretty incredible.  The resort is in the middle of a desert with few resources close by but the staff does an amazing job transporting in fresh meats and produce.   Even the seafood is surprisingly fresh!  Additionally,  Ayers Rock has been gradually upgrading the range of experiences available and there are a few that really stand out.   Altogether there are about 15 restaurants and bars and 3-4 dining experiences.   Based on client feedback and our own experiences, we have highlighted 8 of our favorites below.

A Night at Field of Light

This four and a half hour dining experience easily tops the list. It’s going to be the “must-do” experience of 2016 and the first 3 months of 2017. Why?  Because it’s an amazing once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that will only be possible from April 2016 until the end of March 2017!  The Field of Light is an art installation by internationally acclaimed artist Bruce Munro.   It’s an installation with over 50,000 slender stems crowned with frosted-glass spheres that will illuminate as darkness falls over Australia’s red heart.

This dining experience uses the Field of Light and resplendent desert sunset as a backdrop for one incredible dining experience.  You’ll start by enjoying canapés and chilled sparkling wine as the sun sets, creating majestic views of Uluru.   The darkness will gradually fall while thousands of glass spheres gently sparkle as you enjoy a special three-course bush tucker inspired menu.  You’ll enjoy a didgeridoo performance and then take a walk within the pathways of the Field of Light. You’ll return to a sweet treat and hot chocolate or port before you head back to your hotel.

 Tali Wiru

Tali Wiru, similar to the popular ‘Sounds of Silence’ dinner, is on the higher end of luxury and exclusivity.   The name, Tali Wiru, which means ‘beautiful’ dune’ in the local language of Anangu. It perfectly describes the magnificent setting overlooking Ayers Rock (Uluru) in one direction and Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) in the other.   Choose this experience and you’ll be transferred from your hotel to the remote sand dune by an Aboriginal guide.   You’ll walk up the dune and be greeted by Uluru, almost black against the darkening sky, and the rhythmic humming of a didgeridoo.   Start with chilled champagne and canapés while you watch the dipping sun turn Uluru a deep red.

You’ll be taken to the highest point of the dune and seated at your table, which offers a 360 degree view of both scared landmarks.  Your arrival is perfectly timed so that you see the sun disappear over the horizon, leaving a wash of color in its wake.  Soon you’ll enjoy a gourmet 4-course dinner under the star-filled southern sky.  Choose from a small, but creative selection of dishes, each paired with its own premium Australian wine.  You’ll have plenty of opportunities to try a variety of dishes and wines.  After dinner, the guide will give you a tour of the night sky and tell ancient stories of the constellations while you sip on a glass of port, cognac with native wattleseed infused hot chocolate.

Tali Wiru operates from April to October.

 Sounds of Silence

Sounds of Silence is an award winning Gourmet Australian barbecue dinner with a bush-tucker flare.  Inspiring the two experiences above, this dinner will have similar elements. You’ll arrive right before sunset, listen to the sound of a didgeridoo as the sky washes with brilliant colors.  You’ll enjoy wonderful dishes and quality selection of Australian wine and beer.   The main difference is that you’ll help yourself to your own selection from a bush tucker inspired buffet that incorporates ingredients like crocodile, kangaroo, barramundi and quandong.   You’ll sit at table with about 8 other guests and have plenty of opportunity to make new friends and take photos of the landscape before your tour of the night sky.  It’s a little less fancy and a little less romantic but still one amazing dining experience.  It’s also a little more affordable!

Pioneer BBQ and Bar

Pioneer-BBQ-and-Bar-at-Uluru

Located at the budget friendly Outback Pioneer Hotel & Lodge, the Pioneer BBQ & Bar is a great laid-back eatery for people who want to socialize with other travelers and maybe meet a few of the locals.   The bar can be busy in the evening, but with the live music jamming and people sitting along long trellised tables chatting away, it’s a friendly atmosphere with an unique dining experience.   Head up to the counter to order your food.  You’ll receive your choice of raw meat that you carry over to one of the 20 or so flat barbecues to cook up to your liking.   Maybe try the Outback combo with emu sausage, beef sausage, kangaroo skewers and croc skewers.   The salad bar is well stocked and it’s one of the few places on the resort that serves draft beer.   Double check the menu if you order the pizza, many Americans are surprised when they receive a fresh pie loaded with a fried egg.

Iikari Restaurant

Relaxed and informal, yet still managing to be refined and eleganct, the Iikari Restaurant is located at the Sails in the Desert.   This dining spot is known for it’s amazing buffet style cuisine.  It’s one of the more expensive restaurants but most of our clients end up raving about the food.   There is a wide selection of food during both breakfast and dinner.  Choose from fresh oysters, seafood, bush tucker and classic meat dishes made to order right in front of you.  You can eat all you’d like from a huge range of side dishes, salads and desserts.

Kulata Academy Cafe

The Kulata Academy Cafe is located in the Resort Town Square.  Its purpose is to provide culinary and hospitality management training for trainees of Ayers Rock Resort’s National Indigenous Training Academy. There’s fresh bread and the coffee is fantastic.   They make fresh sandwiches, rolls, salads and amazing shakes and desserts.  It’s a great place to find a yummy and affordable breakfast or lunch while at the resort.

Arnguli Grill

Arnguli Grill  A gem of Australia's rugged heart, Arnguli, the Pitjantjatjara word for bush plum, is a fitting name for a restaurant that celebrates its stunning surroundings. Quality Australian produce are enlivened by local Indigenous flavours using unique spices, grains and seeds. An extensive menu boasting signature tasting plates, the perfect succulent Wagyu steak and a premium selection of Australian wines. With extensive Indigenous artworks colouring the walls, enjoy premium dining in this modern formal dining room.

Argnguli Grill is located at the Desert Garden Hotel and specializes in fine dining with a touch of Australian native cuisine. It’s known for it’s friendly, attentive staff and gorgeous setting. We highly recommend the tasting plates matched with wine flights. The soft shell crab starter is also amazing!  Accor Plus members get 50% off a meal for two.

Walpa Lobby Bar

This laid-back bar is located at Sails in the Desert. Walpa is one of the few places open after 9pm which means it’s a great place to catch a late dinner after your sunset tour in the desert.   A few of our favorites here are the pumpkin and feta salad, fish and chips, or the prawns and crocodile meat laksa. It’s also a great place for lunch or just a casual drink with snacks.

Those are our favorite dining experiences in Uluru. From the extravagant once-in-a-lifetime experience to the affordable quick bite, you’re sure to find something to fit your fancy on your Outback adventure. Speaking of Outback adventures, are you ready to start planning yours?

Get-A-Trip-Quote or Phone us Toll Free on 1-888-359-2877 (CT USA, M-F 8.30am – 5pm).

You may also like: An Outback Journey on The Ghan – 7 Reasons You’ll Love It! | Places to Visit in Australia – The Outback | 7 Breathtaking Regions of Australia’s Outback  | Places to Visit in Australia to Experience Aboriginal Culture | Australia Vacation Spots

14 Reasons Why Kangaroo Island is a “Must Do in Australia”

Posted on: January 18th, 2016 by Melissa Maxwell No Comments

South Australia’s Natural Wonderland

Kangaroo Island is truly an amazing experience for anyone who enjoys wildlife and nature. The island is just half an hour from Adelaide by air or a scenic three hour drive and ferry ride. Once you arrive on the island you’ll be surrounded by a lush unspoiled natural haven inhabited by friendly people and large populations of unique Australian wildlife. The island is roughly 96 miles in length. As you travel, you’ll find it to be surprisingly diverse. From soaring cliffs to dense national parks, to huge sand dunes, wetlands, and of course, untouched white sand beaches.

There are so many amazing things to do on Kangaroo Island, that it was pretty hard to narrow down the list to just fourteen of our favorites. Be sure to ask your Destination Specialist about their favorite so you don’t miss out on something you might love!

The Journey- Getting there is half the fun!

Road Trip in Australia Kangaroo IslandKangaroo Island is an incredible road trip! There are many great tours that will take you to the island and provide insightful and interesting commentary, but Kangaroo Island is also a great place to explore on your own. We often recommend that you rent a car in Adelaide, drive down to the island and take your time discovering it on your own. As you drive along this friendly coast, embrace the locals’ welcoming spirit by partaking in the ‘Kangaroo Island Wave’ – a friend gesture, produced by lifting your index finger to acknowledge passing cars.

Flinders Chase

One of Australia’s Top National Parks, Flinders Chase National Park is located on the western end of Kangaroo Island. Flinders Chase is a must see for any KI visit. Here you’ll find the world renowned Remarkable Rocks- wild-sculpted rock formations that sit atop a smooth granite dome, Admiral’s Arch- a perfect sweep of rock along the coast where long-nosed fur seals play, West Bay- an amazing beach and great hiking trails such as the Snake Lagoon Walk.

Remarkable Rocks

Remarkable Rocks on Kangaroo Island An Australia Must See

Image by: Alan & Flora Botting on flikr.com

The Remarkable Rocks are a collection of enormous eroded granite boulders atop a giant dome of lava. They have been shaped by the erosive forces of wind, sea spray and rain for over 500 million years! The golden orange lichen covering some of the rocks and the many different shapes offer plenty of photo opportunities at different times of the day.

Admiral’s Arch

Admiral’s Arch Kanagroo Island Australia Must SeeThe Admiral’s Arch is located at Cape du Couedic. The natural wonder is a remnant of the ancient cave that was broken by ocean waves and transformed into a natural bridge. Stalactites still cling to what’s left of the cave’s roof. You can walk down the boardwalk around the cliff face to a viewing platform to see the arch. In the summer, you can observe a colony of New Zealand fur-seals on the rock platforms under the arch. Be sure to be on the look out for fuzzy seal pups!

Cape du Couedic Light House

Cape du Couedic Light House on Kangaroo Island Australia Must SeeWhile you’re checking out the arch, take a moment to cast your eyes upon the Cape du Couedic Light House. Constructed between 1906 and 1909, it consists of a tower made from 2,000 pieces of local stone. During it’s early years, the lighthouse was inaccessible by land. The materials used to build the lighthouse were brought by boat and hauled up the cliff face by a flying fox winching system powered by horses. This system was later used to haul supplies and the only method of getting keepers and their families on and off the Cape. Today, the lighthouse still warns ships of treacherous waters and an underwater reef off the Cape. There are also accommodations available.

West Bay

West Bay Beach Australia Must See on Kangaroo IslandWest Bay is a remote beach in Finders Chase National Park. It supplies spectacular seaside views and is never overcrowded! Camping sites can be found nearby.

Snake Lagoon Walk

Snake Lagoon Walk Kangaroo Island Australia Must See | AboutAustralia.com

 

This scenic walk starts at Snake Lagoon and winds through Sugar Gums and mallee before descending into the Rocky River Valley. The trail crosses Rock River and meanders along its band to the Southern Ocean Coast. You can find the trail head about five and a half miles from Flinders Chase Visitor Center off West Bay Road.

Cape Borda Light-station

Cape-Borda-LightstationCape Borda is about 1 hour drive from the the Flinders Chase Visitor Centre, but worth the trip for those interested in history, amazing scenery and bush-walking. The light house tour is very informative and interesting. Not only will you learn about the history of the lighthouse, but you’ll be taught some navigation skills and see a real canon fire. Accommodations are also available.

Vivonne Bay- One of Australia’s Best Beaches

Vivonne-Bay-Kangaroo-Island-a-Must-See-in-Australia

Located on Kangaroo Island’s south coast, near Kingscote, Vivonne Bay is no stranger to “Best Beach” Lists. Visit Vivonne Bay and you’ll experience soft white sand, clear seas and few people. If you have snorkeling gear, be sure to bring it along, the water is great! Vivonne Bay is known for it’s surfing and strong currents, so it’s best for experienced swimmers.

Sand-boarding in the Little Sahara

Sandboarding in the Little SaharaNot far from the lush shores of Vivonne Bay, you’ll find a desert called the Little Sahara. For about fifty dollars you can rent a toboggan and a sand-board so that you can spend the day running up and sliding down giant sand dunes. It’s a great activity for the whole family.

Vist South Australia & Kangaroo Island | AboutAustralia.com

See Sea Lions at Seal Bay

Sea Lions at Seal Beach

Seal Bay has been home to an Australian sea lion population for thousands of years, and offers one of the most exceptional nature-based experiences in the world. This is the only place in the world where you can see Australian sea lions at close quarters and walk on a beach where pups play, bulls fight for supremacy and resting mothers suckle their young. Take a guided tour to get up close to the action or take your time and observe from afar on the boardwalk. Australian sea lions are unique to South Australia and Western Australia. They are an endangered species – their total population is about 14,700. Seal Bay is the third largest colony of this magnificent, wild creature.

Feed a Roo

Feed a Kangaroo - Australia Must SeeWhile on Kangaroo Island, you’ll likely see plenty of wild Kangaroo Island Kangaroos. But if you want to get really close to the cute little guys, head to the KI Wildlife Park. Here you’ll find friendly kangaroos that have been hand raised since they were orphaned in the wild. There are usually opportunities to feed and pet the kangaroos.

 

Birds of Prey Presentations

Birds of Prey Kangaroo Island Must Do in Australia Experience

“Raptor Domain” on Kangaroo Island is a very personal up close experience. You have the option to see one to three wild presentations. These presentations are very interactive and very informative. You have the opportunity to hold most of the birds and reptiles featured. There is also an opportunity to purchase a private viewing to interact with the birds one-on-one for about an hour.

The Pelican Man

The Pelican Man and The Pelican Feeding Australia Must See

The Pelican Man provides you with an entertaining and informative talk about pelicans and other sea birds while encouraging their participation with fish treats. It’s quite the photo op!

Swimming with Wild Dolphins

Kangaroo-Island-Swim-with-Wild-Dolphins

Slip into the clear calm waters off the North Coast of Kangaroo Island and enter the amazing world of KI’s wild dolphins. This very special experience can be a bit unpredictable since the dolphins are not trained or captive. But that’s half the fun! Your tour guides will watch, wait and tell you the best time to jump in so you’ll have the opportunity to get as close as possible to these majestic creatures. You can also opt to stay in the boat and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot dolphins jumping and playing in the surf.

Still looking for things to do on Kanagroo Island? Be sure to check back next week for “14 More Reasons Why Kangaroo Island is a ‘Must Do in Australia'”.

Are you ready to plan your trip to Australia?

Help Me Plan My Trip >>

Phone us Toll Free on 1-888-359-2877 (CT USA, M-F 8.30am – 5pm).

You also might be interested in Things to Do in Kangaroo Island.

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Places to Visit in Australia – The Outback

Posted on: December 10th, 2015 by Melissa Maxwell No Comments

Australia is an amazing diverse land known for it’s unique wildlife, the Great Barrier Reef and, of course, the Outback. Open spaces that seem to stretch on forever are steeped in the rich ancient culture of the Aboriginal people. The wide ochre landscape reflects Australia’s pioneering spirit and distinct identity. It’s truly an amazing place.

There’s a little bit of outback in every state of Australia, but the most robust and well-known experiences can be found in the Northern Territory, especially the Uluru/Ayers region.

This area of Australia’s Outback is truly breathtaking. Below you’ll find a collection of videos you can watch to get an idea of what a trip to Uluru might be like. We’ve done our best to create a compendium that would best impart the outback experience. Yet, images, words and video will always fail to truly convey the profound experience of Australia’s Outback. You’ll just have to see in person to truly experience its majesty.

Things to Do in Uluru/ Kata Tjuta Area

Find out what places you should visit in Uluru or Ayers Rock during your Australian Vacation to the Outback.

Field of Light art installation by Bruce Munro, is coming to Australia for the first time. Ayers Rock Resort is commited to arts and culture and this year, it’s hosting the biggest Field of Light installation to date in the place that inspired it - Uluru. Outback Camel Tours - A camel experience that can't be beaten anywhere in Australia, with the world heritage area of Uluru and Kata Tjuta as our stunning backdrop.
Outback Motorcycle Tours Explore the scenic wonders of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park home to the iconic Uluru / Ayers Rock, the great rock domes of Kata Tjuta / The Olgas and the informative Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre or the impressive Kings Canyon
Desert Awakening Tour. On your vacation explore the fascinating surroundings of Australia’s Red Centre. Watch the sunrise over Uluru, enjoy breakfast and be sure to snap a few great photos. Afterwards, visit the Cultural Centre. Journey along the Red Centre Way in the Northern Territory, navigating through Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon), West MacDonnell Ranges, Simpson Desert, and Alice Springs. Scenic Flights over Ayers Rock. Your bird’s eye view will take in Uluru and the magnificent red desert, all the way to the striking rock formations of Kata Tjuta, the waterhole Mutitjulu and the surrounding desert; a panorama of breathtaking scenery.
The township of Yulara supports Ayers Rock Resort where visitors to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park are accommodated. The resort features different levels of accommodation from hotel, apartment style, budget and camping. From relaxed dining under a desert sky, to grilling a barramundi steak on the BBQ, you can choose from 15 dining experiences. No matter which hotel you've chosen to stay at, the dining options at Voyages Ayers Rock Resort cater for every taste and budget.
'Tali Wiru', meaning beautiful dune in local Anangu language, encapsulates the magic of fine dining under the Southern Desert sky.
Join our SMALL GROUP TOURS ....SEIT Outback Australia takes you, without the crowds, on exciting, adventurous and interpretive small group tours.  Travelling with SEIT Outback Australia gives you the time to learn, absorb and relax in the heart of OZ Maruku Arts Dot Painting Workshop provides a fun introduction to local Indigenous Art. Anangu paintings are created for educational and ceremonial purposes as well as telling of events that have occurred. Join local Indigenous artists and learn about the Start your Red Centre adventure in Alice Springs and tick off Australia's icons from your must Do list! Dine under the stars at Uluru, fly above Kata Tjuta, hike the Kings Canyon Rim Walk. Here in Alice Springs, you can choose your own adventure.

These are the places you should visit in Australia!   Are you ready to plan your trip to Australia?

Help Me Plan My Trip >>

Phone us Toll Free on 1-888-359-2877 (CT USA, M-F 8.30am – 5pm).

 

16 Photos That Will Make You Want To Go To Australia Right Now

Posted on: October 29th, 2015 by Melissa Maxwell No Comments
16 Stunning Photos of Beaches and Aquatic Life in Australia
Look at the tweet below and you’ll understand what it feels like to experience the beauty of Australia.Below are 16 amazing photos to trigger some of that awe inspiring delight right now!Our Destination Experts can help you plan the perfect trip to Australia. Customize your trip and start jumping for joy.

Whale Sharks in the Indian Ocean, Western Australia

Whale sharks in Western AustraliaImage by Migration Media – Underwater Imaging via Western Australia facebook

The Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia is the only place in Australia where you can swim with the majestic Whale Shark. The Whale Shark is the largest known fish and can grow up to 42 feet long. Unlike most sharks, they are filter feeders with huge toothless mouths.

 

The Famous Bondi Baths, Sydney, New South Whales

Bondi Pool Australia TripImage by: Andym5855 on flickr

These giant pools have been a landmark of Bondi Beach for over 100 years! There is a large pool for lap swimming and a smaller pool for the kiddos. Its a great way to experience one of Australia’s most beautiful beaches during the winter. The pool is open 6am to 6:30pm, Monday through Friday, 6:30am – 6:30pm on Saturday and Sunday, and is closed for cleaning on Thursdays. It’s only $6.50AUS for adults & $4.50AUS for children.

Sea Turtles on the Great Barrier Reef

Sea Turtles in Australia

When visiting the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, don’t forget to bring an underwater camera. Whether you’re diving or snorkeling, you’re sure to run into many members of the large diverse aquatic life population, like this Green Sea Turtle. Six of the world’s seven marine turtles can be found on the Great Barrier Reef.

Lizard Island, The Great Barrier Reef, Queensland

Lizard-Island

Sitting right on the Great Barrier Reef, Lizard Island has some amazing views and uniquely diverse diving conditions. Forbes.com recently published an article about the Luxury Resort of Lizard Island, saying it “may be one of the most beautiful place in the world.” The resort, complete with a recent 46-million dollar renovation, is absolutely stunning. With 24 sandy white beaches and 1,013 hectares of National Park, it’s really easy to get away from it all.

(Click here for 11 Day Luxury Lizard Island & Sydney Getaway from $3,995)

Sea Lions off the coast of Port Lincoln, South Australia

Swim with Sea Lions in Port Lincoln in South AustraliaImage by: Adventure Bay Charters via australia.com facebook

These friendly “puppies of the sea” can be found in many waters off the coast of Australia. This photo was taken in the crystal clear water of Seal Cove. So adorable!

Byron Bay, New South Wales

Sunset At Byron Bay Travel to AustraliaImage by: Adrll Slonchak on flickr

Byron Bay is a popular vacation spot among the Aussie population. So you know it’s good! It’s a laid back, new-age utopia kind of town with miles of picture-perfect coastline. Great for families, friends, couples and shutterbugs.

The Penguin Parade on Phillip Island, Victoria

Little Penguins on Phillip Island Every night a parade of little penguins marches across Summer Land Beach. Phillip Island in Victoria is home to an estimated 32,000 breeding pairs. As you can imagine, this is a very cute sight to see!

Swimming with Humpbacks off the Sunshine Coast, Queensland

Swimming with Humpbacks on the Sunshine Coast Experience AustraliaImage by: Migration Media Underwater Imaging, Australia.com Facebook

This amazing photo was taken off the coast of Queensland’s Sunshine Coast during this year’s Humpback migration season (July – October). It’s amazing to see calves swim along side their mums.

Wineglass Bay, Tasmania

Wineglass Bay Tasmania Trip to AustraliaImage by: aussiejeff on flickr

Wineglass bay, located on the Southern edge of Tasmania, is located in Freycinet National Park. These perfect contours, turquoise water and pure white beaches exist on any normal day while you’re on Wineglass Bay.

Baby Turtles on Diamond Beach, New South Wales

Baby turtles on Diamond Beach Image by: Judith Conning via australia.com on facebook

Every year thousands of baby turtles make their way to the ocean for the first time. Turtle nesting grounds can be found all over Australia’s coast.

The Twelve Apostles, Port Campbell National Park, Victoria

12 Apostles Melbourne AustraliaImage by: Visit Melbourne on facebook

Near the Great Ocean Road in Victoria in Port Campbell National Park, you’ll find a collection of limestone stacks just off the shore. There are only eight apostles now, after the ninth one dramatically collapsed in July of 2005. Interesting fact: There were never 12 stacks, as far as we know.

Augie the Killer Whale on the Coral Coast, Western Australia

Augie the Killer Whale Western Australia Image by Indian Ocean Imagery via Western Australia facebook

Considered an Exmouth local and regular around Ningaloo Reef, Augie the Orca is known for putting on a show. He’s been spotted multiple times performing for crowds on cruises around the reef.

Fraser Island, Queensland

Fraser Island Ship Wreck Visit Australia Image by: Greg Schechter

Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island, is a nature lover’s dream. Activities available include 4×4 next to the sandy cliffs, hike through the rainforest, meet native wildlife, whale-watch, comb the beaches, visit shipwrecks, and swim in freshwater lakes ringed with gold. The photo above is of the island’s most famous shipwreck, the SS Maheno. It was one of the first turbine-driven steamers.

Tangalooma Island Resort, near Brisbane

Dolphin feeding Tangalooma island resort Tour Australia

Tangalooma is the only place you’re practically guaranteed the opportunity to feed wild bottlenose dolphins during your stay. Each night at sunset up to 10 wild dolphins visit the shores of Tangalooma and everyone is invited to feed them a treat. The feeding program runs with strict guidelines to ensure the health and safety of the dolphins, but everyone still enjoys this magical experience.

Heart Shaped Reef, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland

Heart Reef Great Barrier Reef Travel to Australia Image credit: Kieran Stone via australia.com facebook

You might recognize this scene from TV and movies. The Heart Shaped Reef, in Hardy Reef, is a great place for snorkeling and scuba diving. You can see this lovely sight from a helicopter or plane tour.

Bremer Island, Northern Territory

Bremer Island Visit Australia Image by: Australia’s Outback, Northern Territory on facebook

Bremer Island is at the topmost end of Australia in the Northern Territory. It’s the perfect place for a remote wilderness retreat, world class fishing, learning about the Yolngu culture, and getting away from it all.

There are so many amazing sights to see on and off the coasts of Australia. As they say, pictures just don’t do it justice.

You have to see it for yourself. Are you ready to start planning your tip to Australia?

Help Me Plan My Trip >>

Phone us Toll Free on 1-888-359-2877 (CT USA, M-F 8.30am – 5pm).

11 Best Underwater Experiences in Australia

Posted on: September 21st, 2015 by Melissa Maxwell No Comments

Add these to your SCUBA Diving Bucket List

From the Great Barrier Reef in the east to the majestic whale sharks in the west, this list of the best underwater experiences in Australia will have you itching to get down under for an amazing dive adventure. Lucky for you, there’s never been a better time book a trip to Australia.

Dive the Great Barrier Reef

Dive the Great Barrier Reef in Australia Dive the Great Barrier Reef

There’s no way around it. If you’re a diver, the Great Barrier Reef needs to be on your bucket list. It’s the biggest reef system in the world with over 2,900 reefs and 900 islands stretching 1,429 miles. That’s massive! It’s filled with nonstop underwater action and is perfect for divers of all levels. It’s overflowing with all manner of aquatic life; 380 species of coral, over 2,000 species of fish, 4,000 species of mollusks, 500 species of seaweed and 6 of the 7 kinds of sea turtles.

Stand Where the Reef Meets the Rainforest

Where the Forest Meets the Reef in Australia Cape Tribulation - Travel to Australia

Ok, so it’s not an underwater experience, but it’s worth a mention! Australia is home to the only place in the world where Two World Heritage Sites meet. The Great Barrier Reef meets up with the Wet Tropics of North Queensland, a group of rainforests with the highest concentration of primitive flowers plant families in the world, at Cape Tribulation and the Daintree rainforest. This majestic site offers a glance into what the world was like when dinosaurs roamed the earth. (Along with really great diving close by!)

Dive Ribbon Reefs

Just outside of Cairns, in the northern reaches of the Great Barrier Reef, you’ll find the Ribbon Reefs. The ten reefs, simply named Ribbon Reef 1 through Ribbon Reef 10, stretch for more than 50 miles along the edge of the continental self and offer legendary diving for all levels of experience. There’s even really great snorkeling!

As you explore the Ribbon Reefs you are also likely to find everything from large Maori wrasse to leopard morays, playing clownfish to large aggregations of batfish, bommie to whitetip reef sharks, and uncountable species of anemonefish.

Dive in June or July and you’re almost guaranteed to swim with a Minke whale.

Some great dive sites include: Challenger Bay, Steve’s Bommie, Acropolis, Cod Hole, Lighthouse Bommie and Snake Pit.

Come Face to Face with a Giant Potato Cod

Cod-Hole Potato-Cod-Great-Barrier-Reef-Dive-Australia

Found in “Cod Hole” (Ribbon Reef #10) these giant grouper are extremely friendly and accustom to being hand fed. Find them off the coast of Cairns, Australia or Lizard Island on the North End of the Great Barrier Reef.

Start planning your Australian dive vacation.

Witness a Shark Feed

Take a Live-aboard out to North Horn, Osprey Reef for an amazing shark frenzy experience. The North Horn of Osprey reef is a unique diving landscape with the reef starting 16 feet below the surface, sloping to 131 feet and then making a vertical drop to around 1,312 feet. It feels like an oasis of life in the middle of a desolate sea and deep sea creatures are known to stop by for a visit. It’s a place where 2 ocean currents converge and a place famous for it’s shark dives.

Silvertips, grey reefs, grey whalers, white tips and even hammerheads come to the site for an easy meal. When the dive operators drop the bucket, the intensity of the free-for-all reaches a fiver pitch. The sharks are accustomed to this feed and ignore the divers as they tear into their meal. You’ll get a nice adrenaline rush, without much actual danger.

Selfie with a Maori Wrasse (Humphead Wrasse)

Selfie-with-a-Maori-Wrasse Humphead Wrasse Great Barrier Reef


This large personable fish can be found on reef slopes and lagoon reefs on The Great Barrier Reef. They are one of the few fish that eat the reef’s toxic arch enemies. With their large lips, comical eyes and friendly personalities they make great selfie buddies!

Swim with Sea Turtles

Swimming with sea turtles is a dream come true for many divers. The Great Barrier Reef is home to 6 of the 7 species of turtles in the world. One of the best places to swim with sea turtles (Green and Loggerhead) is from Heron Island. The reef surrounding Heron Island is also home to around 60% of the 1,500 species of fish and 72% of the coral species found on the Great Barrier Reef.

Visit November – March for turtle breeding season.

Find Nemo

Find Nemo Great Barrier Reef Australia Travel Deals Find Nemo on the Great Barrier Reef. Travel to Australia.


Dive the Great Barrier Reef and you are almost guaranteed to find him.

Swim with Whale Sharks, Ningaloo Reef

You don’t even have to be a diver for this one but an Australian aquatic wish list wouldn’t be complete without the majestic whale shark. Don’t worry, whale sharks don’t have teeth. For this amazing experience head to Ningaloo Reef on the Coral Coast in Western Australia between mid-March and the end of July. Not only will you swim with the whale sharks, but you’ll see an abundance of reef life such as manta rays, dolphins and turtles.

Spot a Dugong

Spot a Dugong in Western Australia The Dugong Western Australia


The seawater cousin of the manatee, the Dugong or sea cow can be found on the Coral Coast of Australia. Shark Bay and Ningaloo marine parks supports about 10% of the world’s population.

Cage Dive with Great White Sharks

Dive with Great White sharks in Australia Cage Dive with Great White Sharks

You won’t find Great Whites on the Great Barrier Reef so the adventurous types should head to Port Lincoln in South Australia to catch a charter and cage dive with the sharks. The pristine waters off Neptune Islands make it one of best places to see sharks in their natural habitat. The cages keep you from becoming dinner.

Scuba with a Leafy Sea Dragon

Travel to Australia Dive with Leafy Dragon Dive with Leafy Sea Dragon South Australia

These interesting creatures can be found hiding in the kelp leaves and seaweed off the coast of southern and eastern Australia. Many divers travel to Australia only to find that the leafy sea creatures are tough to spot. Make sure to ask your destination specialist about the best places and times to see the elusive Leafy Sea Dragon.

Traveling to Australia for a dive trip is on nearly every diver’s Bucket List. Have you had the opportunity to experience it?

Luckily, there’s never been a better time to travel to Australia.

Start crushing your Bucket List!

Plan your Custom Trip


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Places to Visit in Australia to Experience Aboriginal Culture

Posted on: August 26th, 2015 by Melissa Maxwell No Comments

What places are on your Australian vacation wish list?

The Great Barrier Reef, our iconic Sydney Opera House and surrounding harbor, the breathtaking outback, the beautiful beaches or the luscious rainforests. These places are wonderful to visit and offer endless photo opportunities. But when they get home and return to normal life, most travelers find their most memorable moments not in ‘seeing the sights’, but in experiencing the culture.

The Aboriginal arts and culture are a very unique and interesting component of the Australian identity and one that can be experienced without traveling to remote locations. You can experience the human element of Australia in intimate and authentic ways in every state and not far from where you will likely already want to visit. Save on your trip to Australia with our deals on customized Indigenous vacation packages.

Aboriginal Australia is as diverse as the continent’s landscape; not one nation but many nation states speaking more than 250 languages. Each stop will provide you with a new and unique perspective and ground your tour of the infamous sites to the people of the land. You can also experience the culture by adding a few Aboriginal managed tours to your itinerary. Here are a few of our favorite places to visit in Australia to get a big dose of historic culture.

Places to Visit in Australia – New South Wales

Dreamtime Southern X Tour Sydney Australia

Image by Dreamtime Southern X

The Rocks (Sydney) – Take a 90- minute leisurely urban walkabout with an Aboriginal guide in The Rocks, the historic area of Sydney’s city center. Your Aboriginal guide with show you how the ancient wisdom of Dreamtime is continuously weaved into the modern city to create a unique Australian culture.

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney – The Royal Botanic Garden is a great place to learn how early Aboriginal inhabitants lived as hunters and gatherers. Intimately associated with the environment they made poisonous seeds edible, created fishing line from bark, wove leaves into mats and baskets, and much more in order to survive. During a one hour tour an Aboriginal Education Officer will help you explore the rich Aboriginal heritage of the garden and give you a first-hand perspective of the its significance.

Taronga Zoo (Near Sydney) – Just short drive from the harbor you’ll find the Taronga Zoo. An Aboriginal discovery tour offers a chance to enjoy interactive experiences with unique Australian wildlife and a chance to discover more about Australia’s rich culture. An Aboriginal guide will tell you stories of Australian wildlife, the binding relationships between flora and fauna, and the Dreaming (the creation of various creatures and landscapes). You’ll also get a great photo opportunity with a Koala and ride the Sky Safari cable to discover why Taronga is known as “The Zoo with a view”.

Places to Visit in Australia – Northern Territory

Uluru, Australia’s Red Centre (Ayers Rock) – Visiting the heart of Australia is about more than just seeing a giant red rock, it’s about experiencing the Outback; its majestic beauty, its heritage and its essence. As the traditional owners of Uluru Kata Tjuta and the surrounding land, who better to help you capture the moment than the Anangu? Unlike many of us the Anangu still possess a strong connection to the past and thousands of years of accumulated knowledge, wisdom and law. Their traditions are maintained and passed on through stories, rituals, ceremonies, songs, dances and art. There are many opportunities to experience their culture and learn more during your stay at Uluru. Here are a few Indigenous tours in Uluru. Your Vacation Planning Expert can help you select the best experiences for your trip.

Sounds of Silence Dinner– A unique award-winning gourmet desert dining experience complete with a didgeridoo welcome, a beautiful Outback sunset, Australian delicacies, and a tour of the stars.

Northern Territory Camel Ride Ayrer's Rock Australia

Image by AYQ

Camel Ride to the Sounds of Silence Dinner site (or just around the Outback) – Camel tours of Uluru are always an amazing experience. Friendly local guides teach and tell stories about the flora and fauna, the land, the indigenous people, their own lives and the history of camels in Australia in a fun and enjoyable way. The photo opportunities are always amazing and the camels, with their own unique personalities and cheeky nature, may also provide a bit of entertainment.

Tali Wiru Dinner – Another unique desert dining experience with a taste of Aboriginal heritage. This tour fills up quickly as only 20 people are allowed per night. You are taken to a large dune, well away from anything else. A majestic view of Uluru is in the distance as a local plays the didgeridoo and canapes are served as the sun sets. You will enjoy a three course meal with matching Australian wines, desert with port, and an evening of star gazing and Aboriginal stories.

Desert Awakenings Tour – This tour is a great way to view the landscape and learn about its history and its people. Travelers often describe their experience as powerful and spiritual as they learn the history of the land, take in the rock paintings and learn about the local lore of the Anangu people.

Places to Visit in Australia – Queensland

Queensland Daintree National Park Aboriginal Tour Australia

Image by: Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tours

World Heritage Listed Daintree National Park (Pick-ups at Cairns, Beaches and Port Douglas) – This intimate tour allows you to not only learn about the Aborginal culture of the rainforest but also experience it. It’s a day full of excitement, learning, and fun. Some highlights include a smoking ceremony, mud crab hunting, a visit to your guide’s home to cook your catch, a lesson in ingenious art, and a swim in The Mossman Gorge.

Mossman Gorge Centre (A quick car ride from Port Douglas) – The Mossman Gorge Centre is managed by Aboriginal natives, Kuku Yalanji, whose natural history makes them perfect guides to the oldest rainforest in the world. Your guide will provide an entertaining narrative of the unique tropical environment while demonstrating traditional plant use, identifying bush food sources, and sharing their special relationship to the land. The Mossman Gorge Centre is a wonderfully pleasant way to enjoy the rainforest as you walk along a broad walk, swim in pristine water and cross the mighty gorge on a suspension bridge.

Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park (About 15 minutes from Cairns Airport) – Enjoy one of the most memorable dinner and shows in the world. This performance and tour truly takes you back in history and goes a long way to bring perspective to the culture’s 40,000 year history. The food is unexpected, abundant, tastefully prepared, and absolutely beautiful. There are plenty of opportunities for photos, fireside chats with the locals and a chance to take the stage and learn a traditional dance.

Places to Visit in Australia – Victoria

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne Aboriginal Guide Australia

Image by: Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre (Melbourne) – The word Bunjilaka is a word created from two local Aborginal languages and means “creation place”. It is a place where Victoria’s indigenous communities can express their own history within the Melbourne Museum. It’s also a place where you can understand the aboriginal history of belonging to the land on the Yarra River, populated by the Boonwurrung and Woiwurrung people before the first Europeans arrived.

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne – The award-winning walk through the Gardens is often described as one of the most interesting walks in the city. A local Aboriginal guide takes you on a journey through the traditional camping and meeting place the for Kulin nation. You’ll experience stories, culture, plant lore, tools and ceremony.

Places to Visit in Australia – Western Australia

Western Australia Tour

Image by: Koomal Dreaming

Ngilgi Cave (About 40 minutes north of Margaret River) – Not many American tourists make it out to Western Australia. If you do, it’s well worth your time to visit Wardandi and Bibbulman Country. You can experience this great landscape and the caves through the eyes of the traditional owners. Take a 3-hour private tour which includes a bush walk, a trip into the Ngilgi Cave where your Aboriginal guide will play the didgeridoo, and a live demonstration of spears and boomerangs. All of this will leave you with authentic insight into the indigenous way of life in historic Western Australia.

 

Australia’s landscape varies from sandy beaches to rocky cliffs, from the desert outback to tropical rainforests and within each landscape is a unique historic culture, whose Dreamtime stories are as varied as the country they inhabit. A trip to Australia isn’t complete without experiencing at least a few of these ancient and mysterious cultures.

View Deals or Phone us Toll Free on 1-888-3592877 (CT USA, M-F 8.30am – 5pm).

 

Great Barrier Reef, Best Australian Beaches & Dives

Posted on: August 18th, 2015 by Lexie Cargile No Comments

Are you looking to soak up the sun on warm, salty beaches or go “under the sea” for some incredible scuba diving? Australia lends itself to some of the best scuba diving in the world. With over 27,000 beaches and being home to the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef, it’s not surprising it’s a scuba divers and beach lover’s dream destination; the crystal clear waters are magnificently mysterious and provide out-of-this-world experiences. We have compiled a list of top Australia vacation spots, and the most popular and iconic beaches & dive locations; no matter your diving background, there are quintessential locations for everyone to explore.

Travel Tip: The seasons are reversed, making the weather in Australia different than the US.

The northeast region of Queensland yields the most diversity for travelers. Queensland is home to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns, Heron Island, Lizard Island and Brisbane, making it an ideal region for those looking to combine the best beaches, scuba diving, and a touch of urban culture.

The Great Barrier Reef is the most iconic scuba diving and snorkeling location in the world. The reef is surrounded by 900 islands and spans across 1,400 miles, roughly the size of 70 million football fields. You will come face-to-face with the world’s most unique and vibrant aquatic life.

  • Heron Island, one of the reef’s luxury resorts, allows you to fully experience the tranquility of the reef and all of its wonders. The leisurely island experience focuses on exploring the beauty of nature and leaving the hectic outside world behind.
  • Lizard Island, an exclusive Great Barrier Reef resort, accessible only by plane, is located directly on the reef. It is perfectly secluded from the world with private beaches you can unwind on and escape the “touristy” areas of the reef, as well as indulge in private, luxury spa treatments and 5-Star cuisine
True or False? Great White Sharks can be found on the Great Barrier Reef. FALSE. The reef’s waters are too warm and shallow for Great Whites; the most common shark found on the reef is a reef shark. These smaller sharks are extremely docile due to the warmer waters and the large amount of fish in the area, leaving you with nothing to worry about.

Liveaboard Sciba Diving Trip AustraliaHeron Island Scuba Diving AustraliaAustralia Beach Travel Destination

Cairns, the closest mainland entrance to the reef, is a tourism powerhouse with pristine beaches and an array of activities. PADI also rates Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef as sites for the World’s Best Big Animal Dives. In addition to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns also has the World Heritage Listed Daintree Rainforest, where you can embark on an award winning Skyrail Cableway tour across the rainforest and national parks for the “world’s most beautiful rainforest experience.” You can choose from over 600 tours a day, including: guided reef walks, scenic helicopter flights, glass-bottom boat & submarine tours, beach adventures, and fishing & sailing.

  • If you’re looking for a really authentic scuba dive experience, Cairns has various liveaboard divetrip operators that venture across the reef’s greatest dive spots for 2-7 days, where you can dive or snorkel between breakfast, lunch, and dinner everyday.

Port Douglas & Cape Tribulation are the perfect mixture of beach and scuba diving. You are still close enough to the Great Barrier Reef to scuba dive at your leisure, but far enough away from everything where you can lay out on white, sandy beaches and relax without the hustle and bustle of an urban city. Cape Tribulation is the only place in the world where two Natural Wonders of the World meet – the Great Barrier Reef and the rainforest.

Brisbane serves as a hub of Australian experiences for those with a short amount of time, and also provides easy access to the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast & Hinterland- breathtaking beaches, adventure theme parks, the Australia Zoo (home of the Crocodile Hunter) and incredible rainforests. While in Brisbane you can explore the South Bank Parklands – a great place to take the kiddos, lay out at Kodak Beach – Australia’s largest man-made inland beach/pool, ride a “River Cat” (ferry) across the rivers, and shop ‘til you drop at the Brisbane Mall.

Sydney, located in New South Wales, is Australia’s number one travel destination. It is worldly famous for the Sydney Harbor, the Sydney Opera House, and some of the highest rated beaches in the world; our two favorites include Manly Beach & Bondi Beach. The critically acclaimed beaches are the perfect sandy getaway with views that stretch as far as the eye can see, and offer world-class surfing, friendly locals, an incredible seafood.

Port Lincoln, also known as the “Sea Food Capitol of Australia,” sits along the shore of the Boston Bay in South Australia and is a thrill-seekers paradise. You will have the opportunity to swim with sea lions & tuna, go game fishing, or take the plunge, if you dare, and cage dive with Great White Sharks. Unwind after all of the excitement with some retail therapy at one of the countless boutiques, or dine in at one of the exquisite restaurants.

Kangaroo on Kangaroo Island AustraliaSea Lion on Kangaroo Island Australia

Kangaroo Island, another South Australian treasure, is home to the extremely unique leafy sea dragon which can ONLY be found in Australia; it is a scuba-divers dream to dive with something so rare and fascinating. In addition to Australia’s favorite land animals – kangaroos, sea lions, and koalas -all these remarkable creatures are what make Kangaroo Island special. You can marvel at these Aussie natives in their natural habitat and explore the wonderment that Kangaroo Island holds, above and below the water.

Ningaloo Reef is located along the coast of Western Australia, and is a World Heritage Listed site. You’re able to dive with whale sharks (seasonal), snorkel through incredible coral lagoons, and watch dolphins, manta rays and humpback whales migrate (seasonal). You can explore several different national parks as well as off-road through sand dunes – another great stop on an adventure travelers bucket-list.

Australia has over 27,000 beaches – that’s a new one to visit everyday for 27 years. We’ve made it easy on you and listed the top 5: White Haven Beach, Turqoise Bay, Cable Beach, Burleigh Heads Beach, and Manly Beach. For a full list of the best beaches in Australia click here.

Similarly, Australia has just as many fantastic dive and snorkel sites, the top 5 include: Cod Hole on the Great Barrier Reef, Flinders Reef, Fish Rock Cave, Lord Howe Island, and Ningaloo Reef.

Annual seasonal events among these locations include: turtle watching, whale watching, festivals & events, and birding which add a little bit of special Australian culture to your adventure. We can accommodate to include any of these seasonal events to personalize your trip even more.

 

or Phone us Toll Free on 1-888-3592877 (CT USA, M-F 8.30am – 5pm).

 


About Australia Reviews

Rating of  Average of 4.86 on a total of 185 Ratings

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Arthur the Adorable Injured baby Koala

Posted on: August 17th, 2015 by Lexie Cargile No Comments

Meet Arthur.

Koala having surgery at Healesville SanctuaryKoala having surgery at Healesville SanctuaryHealesville Koala Surgery - Arthur

The Healesville Sanctuary in Australia received this adorable baby koala, a lucky little joey, very dehydrated and limping after being hit by a car; it was later found that Arthur had a broken femur and arm. The veterinarians of the non-profit organization spent hours repairing his fragile, broken femur. He is said to be healing well, being spoiled with his favorite foods, and has been paired with a teddy bear to comfort him and give him security. Arthur, the cute & cuddly koala, is expected to make a full recovery and return to climbing trees in no time!

Join Healesville Sanctuary in an effort to combat wildlife extinction and donate, or adopt an animal, so they can continue to perform heartwarming miracles, like this one, on more of these special critters.

Glamping Western Australia, Luxury Camping

Posted on: July 22nd, 2015 by veronicap No Comments

In Western Australia, you’ll have the chance to truly get outdoors, explore some of Australia’s most spectacular landscapes and at the same time acquire the highly sought-after “Aussie cultural experience”, all without compromising on your creature comforts from home . Western Australia’s expansive terrains fall nothing short of breathtaking. They have so much to offer with captivating views, exquisite dining opportunities, charming boutiques, thrilling Aboriginal history, pristine golf courses, and unique wildlife indigenous to the area. There are a variety of things to do and see during your stay. We recommend taking several days to drive or fly across the state to truly capture the essence of Western Australia and get fully acclimated with the area.

Western Australia takes luxury camping to a whole new extreme with ‘glamping’ – glamorous camping. There are several “eco-tent” glamping resorts that offer the perfect luxury escape to the outdoors, catering to both the lavish and back-to-nature enthusiasts. We have compiled a list of our favorite glamping resort destinations in Western Australia. For families and groups, we would highly suggest the Ramada Eco Beach, Bungle Bungle Bush Camp, Karijini Eco Retreat, or Soul Camping due to the larger number of tours and activities. Kimberley Coastal Camp, Sal Salis, and Faraway Bay Retreat are catered to intimate, quiet, and relaxing settings. Guided tours are the best way to ensure you don’t miss a single moment of what Western Australia has to offer!

 

The Ramada Eco Beach Resort is located in Broome, Western Australia and rests along gorgeous, white sandy beaches with the most magnificent views and scenery.

Photo by:  Ramada Eco Beach Resort

Photo By: Ramada Eco Beach Resort

The resort runs solely on sustainable energy; the ecologically friendly camp offers a wide variety of unique tours that cater to the interests of many different people. For the romantics, Ramada offers a drop off at the secluded beach and neighboring caves that allow you to explore the fascinating culture and reconnect. The salty Australia beach waters in Broome are home to the humpback whale and the endangered sea turtle. You may cruise the waves to watch the outstanding humpback whales during their migration to the Antarctic (seasonal) or volunteer during the months of November – January to monitor the endangered species and assist the locals in nurturing the turtles. For the adventurous you should find the nearest tour guide for exciting deep-sea fishing, land and beach fishing, and even helicopter fishing. There are an unlimited amount of activities for families, couples, and groups!


The Bungle Bungle Bush Camp is nestled in the World Heritage Listed Purnulu National Park, in East Kimberley Australia and is surrounded by the most captivating scenic views.

Photo by East Kimberley Tours

Photo By: East Kimberley Tours

The multi award winning camp spoils its guests with hot showers, impressive dining facilities, a homey campfire area, and a swimming pool. The camp embodies the beauty of the surrounding nature. You can disconnect from the world and explore the Purnulu National Park while hiking on any of the trails provided. You will find gorgeous beehive shaped towers, ginormous boulders, creek beds, towering cliffs, gorges, and waterholes surrounded by lush wildlife. There’s no shortage of tours and adventures to embark on while you visit the Bungle Bungle! Each tour includes afternoon tea and either breakfast or a picnic lunch. Plus, you are transported to and from the accommodation on a scenic helicopter ride with stunning views over the Ord River, Lake Argyle, Lissadell Station, and Texas Downs Stations. For the diamond lovers, spoil yourself on the Argyle Diamond Mine Tour! The Argyle Diamond Mine is the world’s largest single producer of diamonds, you may purchase jewelry and diamonds as well as enjoy a delicious buffet.

 

 

Karijini Eco Retreat is found in the Karijini National Park surrounded by bushland, near the Joffre Gorge.

Photo By: Karijini Eco Retreat

Photo By: Karijini Eco Retreat

The Karijini Eco Retreat is the only glamping resort found in the national park; all cabins, eco-tents, and campgrounds are semi-permanent to preserve the natural environment, wildlife, and habitats of the animals that call Karijini home. This is the perfect getaway for families and groups! The Retreat offers a variety of options including 82 individual campsites for RV camping, 5 caravan park group campsites, 40 eco-tents, 10 “dorm-style” eco-tents, and 8 “dorm-style” cabins. On site there are BBQ grills, wifi, a payphone, gift shops, the Alfresco Restaurant and Bar – breakfast, lunch, and dinner – and an amphitheater. The gorges and tours are a brisk walk from the shared, luxury accommodations of the retreat. There are a number of self-drive tours that take you along the depths of the Karijini National Park.

 

 

Photo By: Soul Camping

Photo By: Soul Camping

Soul Camping is the closest to traditional camping in WA without all of the hassle!

You are able to customize your entire experience – you pick the spot near Margaret River, Australia and they do the rest. They will pack and unpack the tent, supply you with a comfortable queen sized bed, warm blankets & comfortable pillows, and serve you gourmet meals for the duration of your stay – it doesn’t get any simpler than that. You will be staying in your own personal wilderness haven customized just for you. This is the perfect mix of nature and luxury. Glamping trips are the perfect opportunity for families or groups to truly bond and create a deeper connection with the wilderness and Australia. Soul Camping is perfect for large groups and properties, remote locations, or events.

 

 

Kimberley Coastal Camp is another hidden treasure of Western Australia that is not accessible by road, its remote location is alongside the Admiralty Gulf across from the Mitchell Plateau and Mitchell Falls.

Photo By: Kimberley Coastal Camp

Photo By: Kimberley Coastal Camp

There are two means of arrival: helicopter landing right on the beach, or an impressive float plane landing directly on the waterfront of the secluded highway. Kimberley Coastal Camp has two seasons – wet and dry – which are both equally incredible. The camp is open from March – October, catering the attractions to the seasons. The hub of the camp is simply known as “the shed”, a beautiful pavilion which serves as a gathering point for guests to unwind, have a delicious, gourmet meal, listen to music, or revel in the beauty of the ocean and wildlife. The guides are knowledgeable, experienced, and cultured and will assist you on all of your fishing endeavors. There are several guided walking trails that let you experience the wildlife and culture firsthand. Walking, flying, or boating are your only means of transportation which leaves the land virtually untouched and a safe-haven from pollution.

 

 

Sal Salis is found near the World Heritage Listed, Ningaloo Reef, hidden by the dunes in a private oasis of beauty and wilderness.

Photo By: Sal Salis

Photo By: Sal Salis

Each eco-tent has an incredibly stunning view of the ocean and a functional restroom. This is one of the more quiet and intimate of the glamping resorts, allowing a maximum of 18 guests at the resort at a time. It is the ideal place to relax, dip in the crystal clear waters, and unwind. The Ningaloo Reef is only a short swim from the beach and unveils some of the ocean’s greatest wonders. If you plan on traveling between the months April – July you can witness the whale sharks, the world’s largest fish, migrate with one of several whale watching packages catered to this event. Sal Salis also offers snorkeling, kayaking, guided gorge walks, and fishing. The breathtaking sunsets and million-star sky will leave you absolutely breathless. This is the perfect place for weddings, honeymoons, and couples looking to get away. It is intimate, romantic, and secluded. It is truly believed to be Western Australia’s best kept natural secret.

 

 

Faraway Bay Retreat is hidden along the Diamond Coast of Australia, accessible only by air, you will be on an isolated island near King George Falls, Western Australia’s largest waterfall.

Photo By: Faraway Bay Retreat

Photo By: Faraway Bay Retreat

The season runs from March 1st – October 31st every year. The land is unexplored and a great way to really experience Australia in its natural habitat; the marine and wildlife will astound you. A trip to King George Falls is an exclusive trip for every guest. The Retreat focuses mainly on simplicities: private cabins equipped with single or king sized beds and flushing toilets, outdoor showers that overlook the ocean, exquisite food, and the sound and smell of the ocean to wake you up in the morning. The campsite is surrounded by cascading waterfalls, great fishing spots, spring pools, and gorgeous Faraway Bay. With a maximum of 16 guests on the island at a time, you’re guaranteed a perfectly private getaway. The serenity and tranquility of Faraway Bay will leave you with moments you’ll be able to cherish forever.

 

 

For more information on Glamping Western Australia, please contact us and we’d love to help you plan your next trip to Australia.

Page topics: Western Australia, Glamping Western Australia, Nature, Travel, Tourism, Camping