Australia Holidays

Best time to go to Australia

Since it’s in the southern hemisphere, Australia’s seasons are completely opposite to ours. So their long, hot summer coincides with our winter and vice versa. That said – Australian winter might not be a bad time to visit. Melbourne is the ‘coldest’ of the big tourist cities, with lows of 6/7 from May through to September and highs of 14/15. During these British summer months, however, Perth and Sydney hover in the high teens during daytime while Brisbane and Cairns stay in the low to mid-twenties. From December through to February – high summer in Australia – Melbourne sees highs of 25 while Brisbane, Cairns and even Perth can top 30 degrees. Tropical North Queensland can be rainy in summer, between January and April, and Cairns and the surrounding mountains are lush and green at this time.

For northern Australia, the peak bushfire period is during the dry season, which is generally throughout winter and spring (May onwards). In southern Australia, the bushfire season peaks in summer and autumn. However, local conditions can cause bushfires at any time, so it’s worth keeping an eye on the news.

If you’re heading to Australia to dive or snorkel, be sure to check out if there’s a migratory season for the underwater creatures you’re hoping to spot, or a closed season on the reef you’re planning on visiting. In most of Australia’s peak diving and surfing regions, the sea is over 20 or 25 degrees in the summer (December–April), although slightly cooler in Melbourne and Adelaide. In June/July/August, Cairns, Brisbane, Bondi Beach and Gold Coast still all boast delightful water temperatures around twenty degrees.

How to get to Australia

Even though it’s an incredibly long way, you can actually take direct flights to Australia from the UK. A non-stop flight from London Heathrow to Perth takes around 16–17 hours. However, when flying to Australia, many people prefer a little break in the middle. You can either have a regular layover of a few hours – taking your total travel time to anywhere from 20 to 30 hours – or book a day or two’s layover in another country you want to visit along the way.

There are literally dozens of flight options from Edinburgh to London to Bristol, taking you all over Australia. For example, Edinburgh to Melbourne usually involves a stop at Doha, while a flight from London might stop in Beijing or Kuala Lumpur. Another example: Manchester or Birmingham to Sydney both take around 23 hours and might stop in Doha or Dubai.

Getting around Australia

Once you arrive in Australia, you may have quite some ground to cover to tick off your bucket list. One of the easiest ways to get between the farthest points in the country (say, Perth and Sydney) is to fly. You have more options to get between slightly closer cities, say Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane (though they’re still not close in UK terms).

Car hire is most popular for the freedom it allows, and 4x4 hire is often recommended if you’re looking to explore the countryside or carry your surfboard – or you could hire a van for accommodation and transport in one. There are several luxurious long-distance train routes in Australia, which are a holiday in and of themselves, or those on a budget can use the regular trains or the long-distance buses and coaches. Buses are a particularly easy way to see the east coast. Of course, to get to any island, you’ll have to hop on a boat or ferry.

Within cities, using the public transport system is usually preferable to driving. Trams, metros, and buses can get you from A to B.

Experience Australia Holidays Like a Local

Immersive Australian Culture

Discover Australia's unique blend of Anglo-Saxon and Aboriginal cultures. For an authentic local experience, explore beyond the clichés:

• Urban Adventures: Depending on your city base, enjoy surfing or diving at famous beaches, or relax in a local cafe.

• Nature Reserves: Delve into the natural reserves to encounter iconic wildlife like kangaroos, koalas, and platypuses.

Must-See Museums and Monuments

Enhance your Australia holiday with visits to key cultural sites:

• National Galleries and Museums: Don't miss the National Gallery of Victoria, the Art Gallery of New South Wales in Sydney, and the National Museum of Australia in Canberra.

• Iconic Architecture: Marvel at the Sydney Opera House's stunning architecture and explore Melbourne's contrasting neoclassical buildings and modern skyscrapers.

• Outdoor Excursions in Canberra: Enjoy outdoor activities around Lake Burley Griffin or at Mount Ainslie.

Sydney's Charms

Sydney offers iconic landmarks and beautiful beaches:

• Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House: Explore these architectural marvels, including the UNESCO-listed Opera House.

• Bondi Beach: Experience one of the world's most famous urban beaches, a paradise for surfers and sunbathers.

Melbourne's Attractions

Melbourne is rich in cultural and natural attractions:

• Family-Friendly Destinations: Visit the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium, Royal Botanic Gardens, and Melbourne Zoo.

• Artistic Hub: Explore the National Gallery of Victoria's diverse art collection.

Perth's Sunshine and Parks

Perth, known for its sunshine and parks, offers unique experiences:

• Zoos and Aquariums: Visit Perth Zoo and the Aquarium of Western Australia.

• Kings Park: Enjoy the world's largest inner city park, perfect for outdoor activities.

Brisbane's Cultural Sites

Brisbane, a hub for arts and nature, offers various attractions:

• Art and Gardens: Visit the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art and the City Botanic Gardens.

• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Explore the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and South Bank Parklands.

The Great Barrier Reef

A highlight of any Australia holiday, the Great Barrier Reef is a natural wonder:

• Marine Diversity: Home to a vast array of marine life, it's a must-visit for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts.

These highlights provide a snapshot of the diverse experiences awaiting you on your Australia holiday. From vibrant cities to breathtaking natural wonders, Australia offers something for every traveller.

Most Popular Beaches in Australia for Your Holidays

Discover Australia's Beach Paradise

Australia's island nation is renowned for its stunning beaches, attracting surfers, hikers, swimmers, and nature lovers. Here's a glimpse into some of the best Australian beaches:

• Bondi Beach: Sydney's golden-sand surf haven, Bondi Beach, is famous for its vibrant beach culture, including yoga, cafes, and iconic pools. Nearby Bronte Beach is equally popular, known for its Bronte Baths.

• Byron Bay: More than just a beach, Byron Bay is a complete beach town surrounded by honey-coloured shores. It's a hotspot for yoga and morning hikes.

• Whitehaven Beach: Located in Queensland's Whitsunday islands, Whitehaven Beach is known for its turquoise waters and white sand, perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

• Surfers Paradise: Gold Coast's Surfers’ Paradise offers a wide beach with lifeguard patrols and is a great spot for beginner surfers.

• Burleigh Heads: A bohemian beach with excellent swimming, surfing, and a beautiful view of the Gold Coast cityscape.

• Hyams Beach: A tranquil beach near Jervis Bay in New South Wales, known for its soft white sand and forest backdrop.

• Cottesloe Beach: Near Perth, this beach is known for its relaxed vibe, great swimming, and art exhibitions.

• Lizard Island: Perfect for experiencing Australia’s natural beauty, Lizard Island offers great snorkelling and diving in the Great Barrier Reef.

• Turquoise Bay: Located near Exmouth in Western Australia, this beach is known for its shore reef snorkelling and pristine dunes.

• 75 Mile Beach: On Fraser Island near Brisbane, this beach offers great surf and the 'Champagne Pools' for tranquil swims.

• Bells Beach: Victoria's surf mecca, known for its big waves and stunning scenery.

• Cable Beach: Famous for its sunsets and camel rides along the white sand beach in Western Australia.

Secret Beaches in Australia

While Australia's best beaches are well-known, there are still hidden gems offering a serene escape:

• Lucky Bay: Home to kangaroos, Lucky Bay in Cap le Grand National Park offers rugged beauty and white sands.

• Sunshine Beach Noosa: Close to Noosa National Park, this beach is a favourite for surfers and walkers.

• Cocos (Keeling) Islands: Known for their remote beauty, these islands offer tropical vibes with coconut palms and white sands.

• Twilight Beach: A Western Australian beach resembling the Seychelles, perfect for families.

• Vivonne Bay, Kangaroo Island: Known for its tranquility and clear waters.

• Misery Beach: A remote and peaceful beach near Albany, great for snorkelling.

• Blinky Beach: A laid-back surf spot with tropical vibes in Western Australia.

Each of these beaches offers a unique aspect of Australia's coastal beauty, making them perfect for a holiday filled with sun, surf, and relaxation.

What to Eat During Your Australia Holidays

Discovering Australia's Culinary Delights

Australia's vastness and cultural diversity bring a plethora of food options. In cities and towns, you'll find global cuisine to suit all budgets. But for a true Aussie experience, here are some local favourites:

• Vegemite: Australia's version of marmite. Often found on toast, especially at brunch spots. Combine it with avocado for a popular Australian twist.

• Tim Tams: A must-try chocolate biscuit beloved by locals.

• Anzac Biscuits: Originating from WWI, these sweet treats are made with oats, coconut, sugar, and golden syrup.

• Lamingtons: Bite-sized sponge cakes filled with jam and cream, coated in chocolate, and sprinkled with coconut.

• Meat Pies: A staple in Australia, these hand-sized pies are filled with mincemeat and gravy, often topped with tomato sauce.

• Barramundi: A popular Australian white fish known for its light, buttery taste and versatile cooking options.

• Barbecue Culture: Australians love their barbecues, from sausages and burgers to fresh fish. Try a local BBQ or have your own near the beach.

• Local Wine: Australia is renowned for its exquisite wines, especially whites. Vineyard tours or wine tastings are great ways to sample these.

Indulging in these culinary delights is an integral part of any holiday to Australia, offering a taste of the country's rich cultural tapestry and vibrant food scene.

Embrace the Aussie Spirit: Sports and Outdoor Adventures in Australia

For an authentic Australian sports experience during your Australia holidays, there's a plethora of activities and events to dive into:

1. Local Sports Events: Australia's sporting calendar is jam-packed with exciting events. From the adrenaline of the World Surfing Championships across iconic locations like Bells Beach, Margaret River, and the Gold Coast to the unique Uluru Camel Cup in the Northern Territory, there's a diverse range of events to witness. Additionally, the Hamilton Island Race Week is a must-see for sailing enthusiasts, offering an extravagant regatta experience in the serene setting of the Great Barrier Reef.

2. Stadiums and Arenas: Melbourne, often dubbed the sporting capital of Australia, is home to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The MCG is a colossal stadium with a capacity of over 100,000 spectators, offering tours for a behind-the-scenes look at this iconic venue.

3. Watching a Match: Depending on the season, you can catch various sports live. The NRL and AFL Grand Finals are particularly exhilarating, showcasing Australia's love for rugby and Australian Rules Football. These events occur in Sydney and Melbourne, respectively, and provide an electrifying atmosphere.

4. Sports Facilities for Travelers: Australia caters well to active travelers. Whether it's sailing in the Whitsunday Islands, diving in the Great Barrier Reef, bushwalking across diverse national parks, or engaging in off-road driving adventures in the outback, the options are endless. The country also offers unique experiences like hot-air ballooning in Alice Springs and snorkelling with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef.

5. Cycling and Hiking: For cycling enthusiasts, Australia boasts numerous bike paths and popular cycling routes. Bushwalking is a popular activity, too, with trails available in almost every national park. Tasmania's wilderness, including the Overland Track and the South Coast Track, are notable for long-distance hikes.

6. Water Sports: Besides diving, other water activities like kayaking through Katherine Gorge in the Northern Territory offer unique perspectives of Australia's natural beauty.

7. Winter Sports: Surprisingly, Australia also offers skiing opportunities in the Australian Alps, with resorts like Thredbo and Perisher operating typically from late June to September.

8. Golf: Australia's landscape provides for some stunning golf courses, perfect for those looking to incorporate a round of golf into their holiday.

Each of these sports and activities offers a unique way to experience Australia, catering to a range of interests, from high-adrenaline adventures to more leisurely outdoor pursuits.

Experience the Festive Spirit: Key Events and Festivals in Australia

Australia's holiday scene is bursting with vibrant events and festivals, offering a rich tapestry of experiences throughout the year. Here's a rundown of some notable events to catch during your Australia holidays:

1. Adelaide Fringe: Taking place from late February to March in Adelaide, this is the Southern Hemisphere's biggest arts festival, featuring comedy, cabaret, theatre, music, and visual arts. It's known as the ‘People’s Festival’ for its diverse and inclusive lineup.

2. Floriade in Canberra: Celebrated in September and October, Floriade is the largest flower festival in the Southern Hemisphere. It transforms Commonwealth Park into a spectacular display of over a million blooms, accompanied by music, entertainment, and horticulture workshops.

3. MONA FOMA in Hobart and Launceston: Occurring in January, MONA FOMA is a summer festival celebrating music, art, and culture. It's held over two consecutive weekends, first in Hobart and then in Launceston, and features a lively mix of traditional and contemporary genres.

4. Noosa Eat and Drink Festival: Held in June in Noosa, Queensland, this festival brings together culinary talent to celebrate food and drink. Expect live cooking demonstrations, festive feasts, beach parties, and lots of tastings.

5. Parrtjima – A Festival in Light in Alice Springs: This unique festival lights up the outback town of Alice Springs in April. As Australia’s only Aboriginal-dedicated event, it features spectacular light installations, interactive workshops, and various cultural performances over 10 nights.

6. Sydney Mardi Gras: A major event in Sydney's cultural calendar, this festival celebrates LGBTQIA+ culture with art and cultural events, including a massive parade. It's a vibrant and inclusive celebration attracting visitors globally.

7. The Australian Open in Melbourne: Held in January, this Grand Slam tennis tournament is not just about sports. It coincides with various cultural events, exhibitions, and performances, showcasing the nation's rich cultural tapestry.

8. Melbourne Cup: A celebrated event in November, the Melbourne Cup is more than a horse race; it's a cultural celebration complete with fashion, social gatherings, and public holiday vibes in Melbourne.

9. Byron Bay Bluesfest: Hosted over the Easter break, this festival in Byron Bay is a haven for blues music lovers. It features an impressive lineup of artists and a welcoming atmosphere.

These are just a few highlights from Australia's eventful calendar. Each festival and event offers a unique glimpse into the diverse and vibrant culture of Australia, making them must-visit attractions during your holiday down under.