Tick off 10 of the best experiences in Australia as chosen by TripAdvisor.
Given we live here, we may be a little biased, but we reckon Australia is one of the best places on Earth.
There are so many adventures to be had, from snorkelling one of the world’s best reefs to cruising through rainforests and watching crocs jump for pieces of meat right at the edge of your boat- but how to choose?
TripAdvisor has done the thinking for you, announcing their top 10 best experiences in Australia, so add these ones to the Aussie bucket list ASAP.
1. Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise
I mean, isn’t snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef on everyone’s bucket list and of course has to be right at the top of our best experiences in Australia list.
Suitable for water enthusiasts and newbies, this day trip from Cairns takes place on a 35-metre deluxe superyacht for five hours of exploring. It stops off at two locations along the colourful reef where you’ll be able to dive in and explore an array of tropical sea creatures, and you’ll also get a BBQ lunch included onboard to keep you fueled up.
2. Barossa Valley Wineries Tour with Tastings and Lunch
Any sort of wine lover will know the name Barossa Valley, given that it’s pumping out some of the most renowned wines in the world.
This tour takes the work out of it all by planning a full day of glorious wine tasting with lunch. You’ll visit four different wineries, Chateau Yaldara, Peter Lehmann Winery, Rosenvale Vineyards, and Wolf Blass, while also stopping off at one for a tasty feast and visiting the famous Adelaide Whispering Wall. The guides will take you behind the scenes and make sure you come out the other side a Barossa Valley wine expert.
So for the wine lovers out there, this has to be on your best experiences in Australia list.
3. Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge, and Daintree Rainforest Day Trip from Cairns or Port Douglas
Three of Northern Queensland’s most beautiful natural wonders, one tour.
This adventure will see you visiting Mossman Gorge and taking part in a traditional Kuku Yalanji smoke ceremony, heading to Cape Tribulation for a spectacular view over the Great Barrier Reef, and journeying to the heart of the Daintree Rainforest to spot wildlife and crocs on a river cruise. Aside from the big three, you’ll also stop off at heaps of other gorgeous places like the Marrdja Botanical Walk and iconic Cape Tribulation Beach.
4. Sunset Sailing Cruise from Port Douglas
Hit the peak of relaxation by setting sail on a luxury catamaran.
You’ll take off from Port Douglas and cheers with a welcome drink on arrival before you cruise along the coastline while soaking in a dazzling sunset against a backdrop of the Low Isles and surrounding mountains. Food-wise, you’re covered with a gourmet selection of canapés.
5. Morning World Heritage Cruise on the Gordon River
This catamaran cruise from Strahan runs along the Gordon River that winds through Tasmania’s World Heritage Wilderness Area.
It’s the perfect view of the pristine rainforest surroundings and unique green forests. Highlights include Hell’s Gates, a tour of Sarah’s Island, and a stroll in Franklin-Gordon Park with photo opportunities aplenty. Plus, there’s a bar and food onboard- say no more.
6. Ocean Rafting Tour to Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet Lookout & Top Snorkel Spots
The Whitsunday Islands are a tropical seeker’s paradise, and you’ve likely seen a few snaps across the gram.
This full-day tour lets you explore Whitehaven Beach aboard a motorised raft for a full day. You can pick between two tours: one that offers a magical snorkeling expedition or one with extended beach time at secluded spots that are mostly inaccessible on your own. A naturalist guide will talk through the flora and fauna of the area. Both will provide afternoon tea and cake on the trip, and your only job is to lounge around or glide through the crystal clear waters.
7. Bruny Island Day Tour
Bruny Island boasts some of Tasmania’s most beautifully preserved natural environments and is home to an array of wildlife and clifftop views.
You’ll familiarise yourself with the area on this full-day guided tour that combines chocolate, cheese, and oyster tasting with sightseeing and an exclusive tour of the Cape Bruny Lighthouse. A locally-sourced lunch of gourmet options is included, just in case the number of delicious tastings isn’t enough.
8. Litchfield National Park and Jumping Crocodile Cruise
Of course, there couldn’t be the best experiences in Australia list without an experience from the great north.
The famous jumping crocodiles cruise in the Northern Territory is a real bucket list item, offering a unique experience unlike any other.
You’ll be first on the scene with an early morning start to marvel at saltwater crocs leaping from the water to catch meat dangled over the boat by your guides. After that wild show, you’ll explore Litchfield National Park and swim in three picturesque (and completely croc-free) spots- Wangi Falls, Buley Rockhole, and Florence Falls.
9. Melbourne Skydeck
See Melbourne from the best seat in the house.
The Melbourne Skydeck is the Southern Hemisphere’s highest observation deck with 360-degree views of the city. You’ll be able to use viewfinders and binoculars to get a closer view or upgrade to The Edge for the ultimate rush- a glass cube that projects 3 metres out the side of the building. giving the sensation of being suspended in the air (not for those scared of heights).
10. Moreton Island Day Trip from Brisbane or Gold Coast
Last but not least on our best experiences in Australia countdown is a tour of Moreton Island.
It’s a jam-packed day of adventures that include snorkelling or kayaking at Tangalooma Wrecks, sandboarding on the surf dunes, and a 4WD-vehicle transport to get you to the island’s best spots in style. A picnic lunch is also served up on the beach to keep you going, and your ferry there and back provides an opportunity to spot dolphins or migrating humpback whales on the way.
Images: tripadvisor.com
Feature Image: @oceanrafting
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