Is Australia Worth Visiting In 2024? Best Places & Things To Do
Not sure if Australia is worth visiting? We asked Chloe from Passport Down Under to find out!
Are you longing for a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience this year? Then you may be wondering, is Australia worth visiting?
Australia is a country that has long captured the imagination of travelers from around the world. Known for its stunning natural beauty, unique wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Australia is a destination that has something to offer for everyone.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that there are some challenges associated with visiting Australia.
The long flight to get there can be daunting for some travelers, and there’s a perception that the country is home to dangerous wildlife such as sharks and spiders.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best places to visit and things to do in Australia in 2024, so you can decide for yourself whether this incredible country is worth adding to your travel list.
So, let’s dive in and discover the wonders of Australia!
Is Australia Worth Visiting In 2024?
Australia is absolutely worth visiting in 2024!
Whether you are interested in exploring stunning natural landscapes, experiencing vibrant cities, or learning about rich cultural heritage, Australia has it all.
Australia is home to the famous Great Barrier Reef, which is the world’s largest coral reef system. It is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and marine life.
Visitors can snorkel, scuba dive, or take a boat tour to see the incredible coral formations and diverse marine species.
Australia is also home to many vibrant and cosmopolitan cities, such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, which offer a wide range of activities and experiences.
In Sydney, visitors can climb the iconic Harbour Bridge, visit the world-famous Sydney Opera House, or relax on the beautiful beaches.
Melbourne is known for its street art, coffee culture, and vibrant nightlife, while Brisbane offers a laid-back and sunny atmosphere, as well as easy access to the nearby Gold Coast.
What’s more, learning about the rich and ancient culture of the Aboriginals, Australia’s indigenous people, is a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
What is Australia known For?
Australia is a country that is known for its unique combination of natural beauty and lively cities. Its beaches and surf breaks are world-famous, and its Aboriginal culture is a source of pride for many Australians.
Australia’s coastline is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and surf breaks in the world, such as the famous Bondi Beach in Sydney, which draws in millions of visitors each year.
Surfing in Australia is not just a sport, but also a way of life, and many Australians have grown up with the ocean as a central part of their lives.
Australia is also known for its incredible wildlife. With over 500 species of animals found nowhere else in the world, it is truly a unique destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Perhaps the most famous of these animals are kangaroos and koalas. However, there are many other fascinating creatures to discover in Australia, such as the platypus, echidna, and Tasmanian devil.
Finally, Australia is known for its rich Aboriginal culture, which dates back tens of thousands of years. Visitors can learn about this ancient culture through guided tours, visits to cultural centers, and cultural events and festivals.
Best Things To Do In Australia
Australia is a vast and diverse country that offers an endless array of activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy.
Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient rock art sites at Lightning Ridge, surfing world-class waves at Byron Bay Beaches, or sampling local wine down by Margaret River, there are countless opportunities to discover the best things to do in Australia.
Here is a look at some of the top activities and experiences that make Australia worth visiting.
1. Surf at the Iconic Byron Bay
Are you looking to catch a wave of adventure in Australia? Then head to Byron Bay for this half day guided surf lesson and never look back!
If you’ve been longing to take up surfing or have always wanted to see what the Byron Bay waves are like, this experience is perfect for you.
On this tour, you will learn from experienced and certified instructors as you take to the water and feel the adrenaline rush of catching your first wave within minutes.
Choose from the iconic Byron Bay, Lennox area or Ballina region depending on the surf conditions. Plus, no surf equipment is required! All the gear is included in the price.
👉 Check lesson availability for the half day guided surf lesson here!
2. Wollongong Tandem Skydiving
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, skydiving in Australia is an activity that should be top of your list. Australia is known for its strict safety protocols and experienced instructors, making it one of the safest places in the world to try skydiving.
This skydiving tour in Wollongong lets you experience the unique sensation of freefalling over North Wollongong beach and take in sights such as dolphins, migrating whales, and other marine life from up high.
Professional training will be provided before you head off and at the end of it all you’ll walk away with a commemorative skydive certificate.
This tour is offers small group sizes of 8 people maximum and is easily accessible as it offers pick-up from both North Wollongong railway station and select locations in Sydney.
👉Book your Wollongong skydiving adventure now to secure your spot!
3. Tour the Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is one of the top things that makes Australia worth visiting. This stunning coastal drive offers breathtaking views of Australia’s rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and unique wildlife.
Visitors can road trip along the east coast and see some of the most iconic natural landmarks in Australia, including the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Port Campbell, London Bridge, and Great Otway National Park Rainforest.
It’s a must-see destination for any traveller to Australia, providing a unique and unforgettable experience of the country’s natural beauty.
👉 This day tour is perfect if you are short on time on the Great Ocean Road!
4. Meet the Quokkas at Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island is a stunning island located off the coast of Western Australia, famous for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique wildlife.
The island is particularly renowned for its adorable quokkas, which are small marsupials that are only found in Western Australia.
These friendly creatures have become somewhat of a social media sensation (dubbed Quokka Selfies) in recent years, thanks to their photogenic faces and friendly personalities.
Beyond Quokkas, visitors to Rottnest Island can enjoy a range of activities, including snorkeling, surfing, and cycling.
In fact, Rottnest Island’s beautiful beaches offer some of the best swimming and snorkeling opportunities in Australia, with clear waters teeming with colorful marine life.
The island is also steeped in history, with a number of fascinating historical sites to explore, including an old prison and several World War II gun emplacements.
I highly recommend this all-inclusive day tour from Perth which is excellent value for money and takes you around the main sites such as Wadjemup Lighthouse, Henrietta Rocks, Cathedral Rocks lookout and Cape Vlamingh!
The tour also includes round-trip ferry tickets, plus hotel pick up + drop off from your Perth hotel!
👉 Book this all-inclusive tour here!
5. Taste the Wine of Australia
Australia should be on any wine lovers bucket list, with a range of world-class wineries located throughout the country.
The most famous wine regions include the Hunter Valley in New South Wales, the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale in South Australia, and Margaret River in Western Australia.
This wine tour in Hunter Valley is my favorite because in addition to sampling local wine varietals such as Semillon and Verdelho, but we also got to try local cheese, chocolate, and craft beer, which made for a great afternoon out!
👉 This Hunter Valley wine tour includes a bonus local foodie tasting!
6. Bask in the Beauty of Sydney Harbour
Sydney Harbour is one of the most iconic and picturesque places in Australia and is a must-see destination for any traveler to Australia.
The harbour offers spectacular views of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and the city skyline. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, or take a ferry or boat cruise to explore the harbor and its many hidden coves and beaches.
A cruise around the harbor is a particularly memorable experience, offering the chance to see some of Sydney’s most famous landmarks from the water, including Luna Park, Taronga Zoo, and Fort Denison.
It is even more special (and incredibly romantic) at night when you will be able to see the Sydney Opera House lit up!
👉 How about an iconic Dinner Cruise around Sydney Harbour? Check Availability Here!
When Is The Best Time To Visit Australia?
Deciding on the best time to visit Australia largely depends on your preferences and travel plans. However, generally, the best time to visit Australia is during the spring and autumn months, which fall between March and May, and September to November.
During these months, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The summer months, which run from December to February, can be quite hot and humid, particularly in the northern parts of the country. This is also the peak tourist season, with crowds and higher prices, particularly around Christmas and the Australian school holidays.
So, if you’re looking for a more affordable time to visit Australia, it may be best to avoid travelling during these times.
Winter in Australia runs from June to August, and while it is the coldest time of year, it can still be an excellent time to visit. Many popular tourist destinations, such as the Great Barrier Reef and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Uluru have mild winter temperatures, making it a great time to explore these areas without the crowds.
Also, many winter activities, such as skiing and snowboarding, can be enjoyed in the southern parts of the country (Yes! It snows in Australia!).
Places To Visit & Where To Stay In Australia
Australia is a vast and diverse country with an abundance of amazing places to visit and stay. There are so many options to choose from, so we have narrowed down some of the top places to visit and stay in Australia that are simply too good to miss.
📍 The Blue Mountains, New South Wales
The Blue Mountains is a stunning region located just outside of Sydney and one of Australia’s best places to visit for nature and outdoor enthusiasts.
With over 140 kilometres of hiking trails, including the famous Three Sisters hike, the Blue Mountains offer endless opportunities for exploring and enjoying the great outdoors.
There are walks in the Blue Mountains to suit all abilities, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, and the scenery is simply breathtaking.
With waterfalls, panoramic views, and ancient rock formations, the Blue Mountains is a perfect option for those who love to walk, hike, and do outdoor activities.
If you are looking for activities in the Blue Mountains that don’t involve hiking, the town of Katoomba has a variety of activities not to be missed!
Where to stay in the Blue Mountains : The Metropole Guest House Katoomba.
Magnetic Island, Queensland
Magnetic Island is a hidden gem located in Queensland, Australia, and is a great place to visit for those seeking a unique island experience.
One of Magnetic Island’s highlights is the chance to see wild koalas in their natural habitat at the Bungalow Bay Koala Village.
Visitors can also explore the island’s rugged terrain on foot, with numerous hiking trails leading to stunning secluded beaches and lookouts. Check out the Forts Walk which features World War II fortifications and breathtaking views.
Magnetic Island is also the perfect spot for snorkeling. The best snorkeling spots include Glorence Bay, Geoffrey Bay, and Alma Bay where you can see the SS City of Adelaide Shipwreck.
Where to stay in Magentic Island: Absolute Waterfront Magnetic Island.
📍 Lucky Bay, Western Australia
Located in Cape Le Grand National Park, Western Australia, Lucky Bay is known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.
Visitors to Lucky Bay can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, and swimming and snorkeling at one of the many beautiful bays.
Lucky Bay is also famous for its resident kangaroos who frequently laze on the beach, making for a unique and unforgettable wildlife encounter.
Please don’t feed the kangaroos! These are wild animals and it’s not safe to try to feed them.
Where to stay in Lucky Bay: The Jetty Resort is located in nearby Esperance, otherwise there are campgrounds available in the national park.
📍 Denmark, Western Australia
Denmark, located in Western Australia, is a small town that is often overlooked by tourists. However, it is a hidden gem of Australia that should not be missed, especially for those exploring the popular Perth to Esperance route.
This town has stunning beaches, national parks, and wineries. There are so many activities and even luxury retreats to enjoy.
Don’t miss out on exploring the breathtaking Green Pool, hiking the Bibbulmun Track, or enjoying a glass of wine at one of the town’s many vineyards.
Where to stay in Denmark, WA: William Bay Cottages
FAQs: Visiting Australia
If you’re considering a trip to Australia, you may have some questions about safety, expenses, and other travel-related topics. In this FAQ section, we’ll address some of the most common concerns that visitors have about visiting Australia.
Is Australia Safe?
Australia is generally considered a safe country to visit, with low crime rates and a stable political system.
However, visitors should be aware of some potential hazards, such as the country’s unique wildlife and the possibility of bushfires during the summer months. It’s important to take necessary precautions and follow local advice to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
How Many Days Do You Need in Australia?
The number of days you need to visit Australia largely depends on what you want to see and experience!
However, given the long travel time to get there from most parts of the world, it’s recommended to plan at least two to three weeks to fully enjoy what Australia has to offer.
Are there any reasons NOT to visit Australia?
Australia is not a budget-friendly destination compared to some other countries, so if you are on a tight budget, it may not be the best option for you.
However, there are ways to save money on your trip by choosing budget-friendly accommodations, cooking your own meals, and using public transportation.
Conclusion: Is Australia Worth Visiting?
Australia is worth visiting because it has something for everyone—no matter your interests. Learn to surf, explore the amazing landscapes, try some of the country’s fantastic wines! Australia is a must-see destination.
With unique regions from the Blue Mountains to Magnetic Island and Lucky Bay, come prepared for an unforgettable adventure that you won’t find elsewhere in the world.
While Australia may be expensive, it also provides experiences and opportunities that you won’t find anywhere else. So why not plan a trip and discover all that the land down under has to offer for yourself? You won’t regret it!