From road trips to secret beaches, day hikes and sunset sails.

Australia thrives in summer. Sunny days during the festive season make the cities come alive with heaving rooftop bars, bustling markets, sun-kissed beaches, and lively outdoor concerts. 

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, food lover, culture enthusiast, or looking for a spot to beat the crowds and heat, there’s something for everyone in our guide to some of the best things to do in Australia this summer.

NSW | VIC | TAS | SA | WA | NT | QLD | ACT

NSW

1. Head to Sydney’s Royal National Park

You’ll find some of the best beaches in the Aussie bush here, such as Wattamolla, which has a sandy unpatrolled ocean beach as well as a sheltered lagoon perfect for young families to wade in. There’s also a picturesque waterfall and a shady grove of trees to fall asleep under after you’ve had lunch.

2. Jump on a Sydney ferry

The Sydney Ferries double as a scenic cruise of the harbour as you drift past iconic landmarks on your way to the city’s prettiest neighbourhoods. We recommend jumping on the Sydney to Watsons Bay ferry and having Aperol spritzes paired with salt and pepper calamari and WA lobster rolls at Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel.

3. Enjoy $2 oysters next to Sydney Harbour

Is it really summer if you’re not indulging in a few oysters? PIER Bar at the iconic Pier One Hotel has teamed up with oyster specialists East 33 to offer $2 Sydney Rock Oysters during their Sunset Hour. Take advantage of the offering from 5pm-6pm Monday through Friday.

4. Hire a houseboat on the Hawkesbury River

For a scenic summer break on the secluded waterway book a houseboat on the Hawkesbury River. Stays can range from two days to a fortnight, during which time guests can enjoy swimming and fishing, or pull over for some nearby bushwalking or shopping.

5. Skydive over Wollongong’s North Beach

Adrenaline junkies, take the plunge this summer. See things from a new perspective and get an aerial view of the South Coast beaches and Illawarra Escarpment by skydiving with Skydive Australia.

6. Take a dip in one of the best secret swimming spots in Sydney

Sydney boasts a number of incredible swimming spots to keep you refreshed when the weather heats up. Discover some under-the-radar spots in our secret swimming spots round-up.

7. Take to the Glenworth Valley on horseback

With more than 200 horses and ponies Glenworth Valley’s extensive horse riding school offers a variety of riding experiences tailored to all skill levels. Visitors can choose from guided or free-range rides, while youngsters can be led by professionals.

8. Walk the Main Range Walk from Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko

The 22-kilometre trail takes about nine hours to complete and can be done on a guided tour. It showcases some of the best alpine landscapes in New South Wales, involving a climb to the highest peak in Australia, Mount Kosciuszko, and crossing the renowned Snowy River.

9. Head to a rooftop bar

Sydney is home to some fantastic rooftop bars to unwind at in the sunshine. Harper Rooftop at the Kimpton Margot is an underrated gem in the city. There are premium cocktails and irresistible slushies on offer for you to sip poolside. These are to be enjoyed alongside the Luke Mangan-designed menu of Mediterranean-inspired bites such as tempura zucchini flowers, Cajun spiced prawns and artichoke ravioli.

10. Learn to wakeboard on the Tweed River

Experience the thrill of wakeboarding on the stunning Tweed River with ProWake Academy, a specialist school dedicated to helping you master this exciting water sport. There are courses for both adults and children available, so everyone can have a go in a relaxed and safe environment.  

11. Head to a music festival in Bowral

This summer, the Southern Highlands will become a prime spot for live music, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable festival experiences. Catch artists like Leon Bridges, Fat Boy Slim, and Missy Higgins at A Day on the Green the region’s outdoor winery concert event.

12. Have fish and chips by the beach

Savour the perfect beach day by indulging in delicious fish and chips from some of the city’s best joints including Rupert & Hound, Out of the Blue in Clovelly, and Benny’s in Cronulla.

13. Kayak on Australia’s best-known harbour

Jump in a kayak and paddle past famous landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Book the two-hour sunset tour with Sydney Harbour Kayaks and be treated to the beautiful evening light on the water.

14. Explore the Grand Cliff Top Walks

Spend a weekend in the Blue Mountains and traverse the 19-kilometre Grand Cliff Top Walks. Starting at Darwins Walk from the Wilson Park picnic area, the track follows a path past gushing Wentworth Falls, through majestic ancient forest and along cliff-edge tracks, and ending at Scenic World in Katoomba.

15. Hit up an open-air cinema

If you want to capitalise on the nice weather, turn off Netflix and head straight to one of the city’s open-air cinemas. Check out which ones are open near you in our outdoor cinema guide.

16. Go on a wine tour of Mudgee

Mudgee is home to a bevvy of fantastic wineries making delicious cool-climate wines. This region is home to more than 35 cellar doors and 44 grape varieties so there’s plenty to discover. Check out the must-visit wineries when you’re in the area. 

Hot tip: base yourself at the ultra-chic The Clairfield.

17. Have a foodie adventure in The Tweed

The Tweed is home to some of the country’s best produce and there are stacks of cafes, restaurants, and bars to discover on your next foodie adventure. Not to mention the rolling green hills and picturesque beaches to admire. Make sure to hit up Bistro Livi, Husk Farm Distillery, and The Bread Social while there.

18. Cool down in an art gallery or museum

Sydney has a stack of wonderful art galleries and museums to discover. The Australian Museum is a must-visit this summer as their exhibition Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru is on. Discover the rich heritage of some of the world’s most captivating civilisations via 130 ancient artefacts including jewellery, funerary objects from royal tombs and one of the most impressive gold collections to tour the globe. 

Victoria

19. Hire a houseboat on the renowned Murray River

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Murray River by hiring a houseboat. Stop off and explore the townships along the way from Corryong to Mildura, or enjoy fishing, swimming or canoeing from the boat.

20. Adventure down the Dandenong Ranges Tourist Track

It’s a 17-kilometre stroll past cool creeks, gullies and eucalypt-covered ridges, graded moderate to easy. It can be undertaken from either direction, starting from the townships of Sassafras or Emerald, and can be broken up into shorter sections by stopping at picnic areas along the way.

21. Afloat

Floating bar Afloat is back again this year and is the perfect spot to celebrate the season with friends. This year’s menu is an ode to the beach club restaurants of Capri, Ischia, and Procida so expect classics such as pizzas, pasta, antipastis, and a whole lot of summer spritzes.

22. Take a scenic 40-minute ferry ride from Queenscliff to Sorrento, or vice versa

Taking the ferry is a fantastic way to see both the Bellarine Peninsula and Mornington Peninsula. The daily ferry service with Searoad Ferries transports both passengers and cars so you can get out and explore at your own pace before jumping back on board.

23. Jump on a boat from the Fairfield Park Boathouse

For a tranquil summer experience, head to the Fairfield Park Boathouse on the Yarra River. Here you’ll find gentleman’s rowboats, Canadian canoes or touring kayaks for self-propelled adventures on the Yarra.

24. Mornington Peninsula wineries

There are now more than 200 vineyards, 60 wineries and at least 50 cellar doors on the Mornington Peninsula so you’re spoilt for choice as to where to visit. In summer the region is particularly inviting with the vines being lush and green. Discover some of the best wineries to visit in our guide.

25. Swim with dolphins and seals within the southern reaches of Port Phillip Bay

An area renowned for unique sea life, Port Phillip Bay offers visitors a unique opportunity to swim with playful creatures. Join one of Dolphin Swims’ tours and get up close to bottlenose dolphins and Australian fur seals.

26. The Australian Open

Sports enthusiasts should get in on the action at next year’s Australian Open. Running from the 12th-26th of January this prestigious Grand Slam tournament will take place at Melbourne Park, promising thrilling matches and unforgettable moments.

27. Explore the Victorian high country on horseback

A horse trek through Victoria’s scenic High Country with Watson’s Mountain Country Trail Rides is a fun way to get away from the bustle of the city and discover this picturesque region. Choose from one- to three-hour short rides or multi-day rides where you’ll ride through the scenic mountains and valleys of Mansfield on friendly horses.

28. Enjoy live music at St Kilda Festival

The largest free music festival is back this February for a glorious weekend of summer celebrations. Showcasing more than 70 artists across two days, the St Kilda Festival is a celebration of live music and the diverse Port Phillip community.

29. Seeing penguins on Phillip Island

Phillip Island is home to one of the largest little penguin colonies in the world and you can see them every night in the Penguin Parade. When sunset hits you can watch these sweet birds waddle home from the ocean. Bookings are essential and help support Phillip Island Nature Park’s vital research, education and conservation projects.

30. Go strawberry picking

Good news for berry lovers, Victoria has over 100 strawberry farms offering a delightful opportunity for visitors to pick their own strawberries. The Big Strawberry in Koonoomoo is a great spot where you’ll find a cafe, a playground to keep the kids entertained, and their own strawberry liquor.

31. Discover Wilson’s Promontory National Park

Wilson’s Promontory National Park is a haven for nature lovers with 50,000 hectares of coastal wilderness to explore. Spend your day walking remote coastal trails and swimming at pristine beaches and if you’re lucky, spot some Aussie wildlife such as wombats, emus, and spotted-tailed quolls.

32. Head upstairs to a rooftop bar

Melbourne isn’t notorious for having the best weather in Australia, but it still has some top-notch rooftop bars to take advantage of when the sun does shine. Find some of the best watering holes for laidback alfresco drinks in our rooftop bars guide.

33. Work your way through Melbourne’s best restaurants

Melbourne is home to some of the country’s best restaurants. You’re spoilt for choice as to which ones to go to and the festive season is the perfect time to take out family and friends to one of the hot spots. Discover some of the best options in our Melbourne restaurants guide.

34. Escape the heat at one of the best galleries and museums

Melbourne is renowned for its artistic flair, and when the weather heats up, retreating to the city’s many art galleries and museums is a surefire way to cool down while admiring some spectacular works. Find some of the best to get your culture fix at in our Melbourne museums and galleries guide.

35. Visit Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm

Lavender is at its peak come summer and Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm is a beautiful spot to see them in full bloom. Located ten minutes north of Daylesford, wander through the gardens, or even take a history tour of the property’s storied stone buildings. This farm also houses a trattoria/bar, where you can enjoy woodfired pizzas and lavender-infused scones.

Tasmania

36. Have a hit on Barnbougle Dunes

Said to be the best public golf course in Australia, Barnbougle Dunes is spread across 200 acres of undulating coastal dunes in Bridport, on Tasmania’s northern coastline, overlooking Bass Strait.

37. Take a day trip to Bruny

Bruny Island is a haven for food enthusiasts, celebrated for its stunning and untamed landscapes. Visitors can enjoy hiking, exploring Adventure Bay, or embarking on a culinary journey to savour a diverse array of local delicacies, including oysters, chocolate, and cheese.

38. Go wildlife spotting at Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Tassie has some of the world’s most unique flora and fauna and heading to Cradle Mountain is a great way to see them in a natural setting. Look out for Tasmania Devils, wombats, echidnas, quolls, and platypuses on the Dove Lake Circuit, Ronny Creek, and the Overland Track.

39. Join a wilderness coastal cruise

Hop on board an award-winning three-hour wilderness coastal cruise, along the wild southern coastline of Bruny Island. Expect to see some of the tallest cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere and an abundance of sea life, such as dolphins, seals, and seabirds.

40. Explore the Mt Donaldson walk

It’s a half-day, medium-graded trek through the Tarkine wilderness in Tasmania’s north-west. The predominantly gravel track meanders through open myrtle forest and grassy plateaus, past rivers and up Mt Donaldson. At the top, vast views extend from the West Coast Ranges to the sea.

41. Indulge at Tasmania’s Taste of Summer

This annual foodie festival is a celebration of Tassie produce including salmon, oysters, cheese and wine. Running from December 28 to January 4 at the Princes Wharf, it will coincide with the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race – the finish line is a 10-minute walk up the wharf.

42. Try your hand at fly-fishing in Tasmania’s Central Highlands

Rich in trout, summer is said to be one of the best times for the sport, when fish can be easily spotted, rising to the surface to feed on plentiful summer insects.

43. Swim at the Bay of Fires

The Bay of Fires is peak Tassie beauty and is often regarded as one of the planet’s best beaches. Take a dip in the turquoise waters and admire the rugged red rocks that dot the shoreline.

44. Get out in nature with a Flinders Island Walking Adventure

Get your hiking boots on and join Life’s An Adventure’s Flinders Island Walk. The 5-Day Pack-Free Walk will see you traverse sublime coastal paths and mountain ranges across 37-42km. Packed lunches, restaurant dinners, and accommodation at Whitemark Apartments are all part of the deal.

45. Tasmanian Wine Festival

Tasmanian food, wine, and live entertainment? What more could you want? The Tasmanian Wine Festival is hosted in Hobart’s Botanical Gardens and offers visitors a chance to taste the region’s best drops alongside fresh produce including seafood and cheeses. The 2025 edition will take place on February 8 and 9.

46. Bridestowe Lavender Farm

A 45-minute drive from central Launceston, Bridestowe Lavender Farm is considered to be one of the most beautiful lavender farms in Australia with the flowers on full display in summer.

47. Visit the historical towns of Richmond

This tiny town took out third spot in Australia’s Top Tourism Town Awards for 2024 for its rich history, iconic sandstone bridge and beautifully preserved Georgian architecture. It’s not to be missed.

South Australia

48. Adventure the Second Falls Gorge Hike

It’s a 5.3-kilometre loop through Morialta Conservation Park, situated at the base of the Adelaide Hills, 20 minutes’ drive from the centre of Adelaide. Although there is a steep hike at the beginning to reach the rim of Morialta Gorge, hikers will be rewarded with views of tumbling waterfalls and scenic valleys.

49. Go for a scenic ride through the Barossa on a gourmet bike tour

Hop on an e-bike tour with Bike About and cycle the picturesque region stopping off at the renowned wineries and food producers. This tour offers the perfect blend of scenic cycling, rich history, and gourmet experiences.

50. Escape the heat above ground and explore the World Heritage-listed Naracoorte Caves

In the east of the state, these caves are home to more than 100 known fossil deposits. Discover them solo or join one of many tours available for a deeper insight.

51. Snorkel at Port Noarlunga Reef

Located off the coast of Adelaide, South Australia, is a prime destination for snorkelling enthusiasts. The reef is home to more than 200 species including rays, colourful coral gardens, more than 50 types of fish, and Port Jackson sharks.

52. Try your hand at kite surfing

The Eyre Peninsula along the Whyalla foreshore offers perfect conditions for the sport. Xtreme Kites & Paddle offers kiteboarding lessons for all skill levels.

53. Adventure down the Riesling Trail

It traverses the picturesque Clare Valley wine region and was one of the first rail trails to be developed in South Australia. Starting in the township of Clare and ending in Auburn, it passes many local cellar doors and covers 27 kilometres. The trail is also well-compacted and is suitable for walkers, cyclists, wheelchairs and prams.

54. Explore Curley Creek Hike

The Curley Creek Hike through Cape Gantheaume Conservation Park is located on the southern coast of Kangaroo Island, approximately 40 kilometres south-west of Kingscote. The hike follows an old fire access track that skirts the edge of Murray Lagoon (the island’s largest freshwater lagoon), and climbs Bald Hill, offering great views over the lagoon.

55. Glenelg Sunset Markets

Experience the vibrant energy of Glenelg Sunset Markets at Moseley Square. Running from select Sundays from November to March you can meander through over 100 stalls, experience live music, and enjoy tasty nibbles from food trucks. On offer is a range of fashion items, vintage finds, decor, arts and crafts, and designer goods.

56. See wild sea lions in their natural environment

On the southern coast of Kangaroo Island at Seal Bay Conservation Park wildlife enthusiasts can see playful and endangered Australian sea lions animals in action. Book a guided tour and be taken into the middle of the colony and taught insights into the behaviours and ecology of these fascinating animals.

57. Go berry picking

Visit places like Beerenberg Farm in Hahndorf and experience the joy of picking your own fresh strawberries. You can also relax in the on-site cafe, which features a menu that showcases their homemade jams and sauces. 

Western Australia

58. Explore the Busselton Jetty

Walk along this 1.841-kilometre-long jetty and enjoy swimming or snorkelling in the calm waters nearby. Not keen to get wet? No problem! Take an underwater observatory tour and discover more than 300 different marine species and the country’s biggest artificial reef or jump on the jetty train.

59. Take a ferry from Fremantle to Rottnest Island (Wadjemup)

Hop on the ferry and head over to the idyllic Rottnest Island for all sorts of summery goodness: swimming in pristine waters, indulging in seafood by the beach, and taking ethical selfies with the adorable quokkas.

60. Hire a boat and go crabbing on the far south coast

From December to April, the population of blue manna crabs explodes in the waterways surrounding Mandurah, making it an ideal time to catch them and cook up a summer delicacy. You can hire a boat from Mandurah Boat Charters.

61. Take a paddling tour off the Perth coastline

Make the most of sea kayak season and take a paddling tour to see unique Australian wildlife such as sea lions, fairy penguins and a pelican colony.

62. Have a picnic on the Swan River Foreshore

Pack a tasty basket full of food and rally your family or friends to enjoy a picnic overlooking the water and city. There are barbecues, playgrounds and public toilets available, as well as a nearby dual cycleway-walk trail and a regular ferry service from Barrack Square.

63. Adventure on the Lesueur Walk Trail

It’s a moderate track through Lesueur National Park on the Coral Coast. At the summit, walkers can soak up expansive views over the surrounding park, agricultural land and out to the sea. Although the first 250 metres is a wide bitumen track that is suitable for prams and wheelchairs, the remainder of the four-kilometre trail is sandy.

64. Spend the evening watching a movie under the stars

Why stay indoors and watch a movie when you can take advantage of the warm weather and watch one under the stars? Grab tickets for the Moonlight Cinema at Kings Park and Botanic Garden or the beachside Film Club at Rendezvous Scarborough.

65. Snorkel at Ningaloo Reef

Ningaloo Reef is one of the most spectacular natural sites in Australia and offers some of the most spectacular snorkelling locations in the world. While the season for whale sharks typically lies between March and November, there are still opportunities to see them in summer as well as freshly hatched turtles.

66. Experience a guided culinary tour of foodie paradise Margaret River

Foodies are spoilt in Margaret River with culinary tours offering a chance to sample some of the country’s best locally-produced wine, beer, chocolate and cheese. Margaret River Tours offers half-day and full-day tours guided by knowledgeable local operators.

67. Perth rooftop bars

From beachside hot spots to slick city watering holes, Perth has plenty of rooftop bars to take advantage of on sunny days. Find some of the best spots to cool down with a tasty tipple in our rooftop bars guide.

68. Hit up the city’s best beaches

Perth arguably has the best beaches of any city in Australia, so you can’t pass up a chance to make the most of the pristine sand and turquoise waters when the weather heats up. Check out some of the best beaches to visit in our guide.

69. Immerse yourself in the Aboriginal culture of the Cape Naturaliste region

Immerse yourself in the meaningful relationship between the Wadandi people and the Cape Naturaliste region with Koomal Dreamings. Wadandi custodian Josh ‘Koomal’ Whiteland guides visitors on a unique tour through ancient landscapes, sharing stories and cultural insights that have been passed down through thousands of generations.

70. Go for a sunset hike with a tipple in hand

Off The Beaten Track WA is hosting a series of spectacular summer soirees that are all about balance, letting you exercise, see beautiful scenery, and indulge in gourmet nibbles and wine. There are a range of different events to choose from including the Point Peron Sunset & Sparkling Soiree —a scenic three-kilometre walk with sparkling wine and artisanal cheese. 

Northern Territory

71. Sit back with a few beverages on Darwin’s waterfront

The Darwin Sailing Club is a local favourite for casual hangs with drinks and snacks such as burgers, tacos, fish and chips. During summer you can watch the evening storms roll in over the harbour.

72. Make the most of the Red Centre’s full waterways

Replenished by the summer rain, and swim in the mighty Ellery Creek Big Hole, Big Rankine Waterhole or the Big Bend Waterhole.

73. Marvel at Litchfield National Park’s waterfalls

The wet season transforms Litchfield into a lush paradise, and it is the perfect time to see the breathtaking beauty of its spectacular waterfalls.

74. Get up close (enough) to saltwater crocs

Enjoy a thrilling and informative adventure in the safety of a cruise boat on the Adelaide River. Cruises start on the Adelaide River Bridge, located 67 kilometres south-east of Darwin on the Arnhem Highway, and run for an hour in total.

75. Explore Ormiston Pound Walk

Located 140 kilometres west of Alice Springs, the Ormiston Pound Walk is a circuit of three to four hours around the scenic slopes of the Pound and Ormiston Gorge. After heavy rainfall, some waterholes throughout the gorge may require swimming or wading through, so pack swimmers. During summer it is advised hikers start the walk early in the morning (i.e. 5am) and carry water, as it can be very hot.

76. Avoid the rain at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory: MAGNT

Escape the heat and rain at the MAGNT, a museum and art gallery that preserves and displays the region’s rich cultural and scientific heritage. This summer is an exciting time to visit the museum as The Cyclone Tracy exhibition will reopen in December after a major revamp.

77. Head out on Darwin Harbour on board a historic pearling lugger

Get a group of 10 friends together for a memorable sunset cruise on a historic boat. You might also find yourself with front-row seats to some spectacular wet season thunderstorms – popular among locals.

78. Avoid road closures caused by the Wet and see the Top End from above

Witness the beauty of Kakadu National Park during the wet season from the sky with Kakadu Air.  From above you’ll see the beauty of the World Heritage-listed area’s lush landscape and magnificent waterfalls. 

Queensland

79. Head to the hippy town of Woodford

The annual six-day Woodford Folk Festival, from December 27 to January 1, offers a diverse lineup of live music, engaging markets, and leisurely days under the sun.

80. Jump on the ferry to North Stradbroke Island

North Stradbroke Island has stacks of old-school Queensland holiday charm waiting to be explored. Hop on a ferry at Toondah Harbour in Cleveland and make your way over to the island which boasts an abundance of wildlife, rugged natural beauty, rich Indigenous culture, and idyllic beaches.

81. Book a staycation at The Calile

Regularly regarded as one of Australia’s best hotels, The Calile exudes summer vibes. The urban resort features a modernist Miami and Palm Springs aesthetic, and the swimming pool features palm trees, cabanas, and pool service setting an ultra-glamorous scene. It’s an idyllic and ultra-stylish spot to beat the heat. 

82. Meander around the BrisStyle twilight markets at King George Square

Run by a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting local artisans and designers, the BrisStyle Twilight Markets are perfect for families and friends looking to enjoy an evening of shopping local, handmade goods, enjoying tasty food from local vendors, and listening to live music.

83. Channel French Riviera vibes at the Veuve Clicquot Sun Club

La Luna Beach Club and Veuve Clicquot have partnered up this November and December for their pop-up, French-inspired beach club. Sit poolside under yellow and white striped umbrellas and indulge in the new Veuve Clicquot RICH cuvée while the DJ spins summer tunes.

84. Discover the vibrant charm of Howard Street Wharves

Located beneath Story Bridge and right on the Brisbane River, Howard Street Wharves is brimming with world-class restaurants, waterfront bars, and high-luxe accommodation offerings. Its lively atmosphere brings strong summer vibes, making it the perfect spot for a morning walk admiring the city skyline, sunset cocktails, and exploring Brisbane’s rich heritage.

85. Watch newly hatched turtles scrambling across the sand to the sea at Mon Repos Beach

Between November and March, you have the adorable opportunity to see baby loggerhead turtles hatch and make their way to the ocean. There are ranger-led tours available to help you get the most out of the experience and learn about these endangered marine creatures.

86. Paddle on the Brisbane River in a kayak

Jump in a kayak either during the day or at night, and paddle past some of the city’s prominent landmarks such as the Brisbane Botanical Gardens and the Maritime Museum.

87. Sleep with the fish at Reef Sleep

Located on Hardy Reef, about 80 kilometres east of Airlie Beach, Australia’s first underwater hotel offers a unique chance to sleep with the fish of the Great Barrier Reef. This bucket list experience on Reefworld’s floating pontoon immerses you in the heart of one of the world’s most spectacular marine environments. You can also do day trips to the pontoon.

88. Escape the summer heat and go underground at the remote Undara lava tubes

Caused by a volcanic eruption some 190,000 years ago, the tubes offer a rare insight into Australia’s geological past in outback north Queensland.

89. Cruise through the Noosa Everglades

Explore Noosa’s Everglades as you cruise through the lakes and wetlands on an eco-friendly cruise. In doing so, you’ll get the chance to witness the unique ecosystem, including diverse wildlife and stunning scenery.

90. Chase waterfalls near Cairns

Lush Cairns is renowned for its spectacular waterfalls. There are plenty to discover so we’ve rounded up some of the best waterfalls in the area.

91. Savour summer weekends with Sunday Social On The Green

Wrap up your summer weekends on a high note with the weekly Sunday Social On The Green. Pack a picnic and lay down a rug at River Quay to enjoy live music with family and friends from 2pm to 5pm.

92. Dive into culture with the Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel Great Barrier Reef tour

Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel offers a unique chance to see the Great Barrier Reef while immersing yourself in Indigenous Australian culture. On your five-hour cruise tour, you’ll be educated by experienced marine biologists and Indigenous cultural guides while taking in the spectacular beauty of the reef.

93. Discover paradise on a Moreton Island day trip

A short ferry ride from Brisbane, Moreton Island is an idyllic day trip location. Spend your day snorkelling in pristine waters around historic shipwrecks, sand tobogganing down the island’s towering dunes, and wildlife watching.

ACT

94. Catch a movie at the Botanic Gardens Sunset Cinema

Enjoy a delightful evening under the stars. This outdoor cinema in the Botanic Gardens will be playing a range of movies including Love Actually, Gladiator and Wicked.

95. Explore Canberra’s iconic lake in style

Want to hire a boat but don’t have a licence? Love Boats offers premium electric boats that are easy to operate and will take you across the beautiful Lake Burley Griffin. The romantic little boats sit up to 10 people and feature an enclosed canopy top and window enclosures.

96. Taste your way through the city’s best restaurants

Canberra has a thriving culinary scene and has become an exciting destination for foodies to discover, with restaurants such as Pilot and Raku drawing people to the area. Check out our guide to discover some of the city’s best restaurants.

97. Sip cold ones at Capital Brewing Co.

Open seven days a week, this popular brewery in Fyshwick serves a range of craft beers, including Capital XPA and Coast Ale. Sit outside under one of the red and white umbrellas or pull up a chair inside to enjoy the lively atmosphere. Inside there’s also the Brodburger food truck which slings delicious burgers that pair perfectly with the brews.

98. Have a farm fresh meal at Beltana Farm

Enjoy the freshest summer produce, much of which is grown onsite, when you dine at Beltana Farm for a lazy long lunch. In summer the restaurant opens up to the outdoors so you can enjoy the good weather. The restaurant is nestled within a trufferie with 800 truffle trees, the grounds make for a wonderful place to take a walk after your meal.

99. Tackle some of the best walking trails in Canberra

From leisurely strolls around lakes to challenging hikes along scenic trails, Canberra has its fair share of breathtaking walks to enjoy. We’ve rounded up 14 of our favourite nature walks for you to tackle.

100. Wineries

Canberra might not be the Australian region you most strongly associate with wine, but there are some brilliant wineries to discover that are producing some of the country’s best drops! Discover the must-visit wineries in our guide.

101. Pack a picnic and head down to the western end of the picturesque Molonglo Gorge in Queanbeyan

The nature reserve is rich in natural beauty and offers a tranquil setting for relaxation and outdoor fun. The picnic area is equipped with a playground, flushing toilets, fire pits, gas barbecues, picnic tables and a stone shelter.

102. Explore Square Rock Walking Track

It begins at Smokers Gap, just 20 kilometres south of Canberra, and is a walk of one to two hours through high-country bush. The highlight is Square Rock – a prominent outcrop of granite boulders that offer expansive views over the upper Cotter and Tidbinbilla. Take caution as there are some stone steps, steep cliffs and steel ladders along the way.

103. Glide over the city in a hot-air balloon

See Canberra’s unique street planning and stunning landscapes from above in a hot-air balloon. Arrange a ride at sunrise with Dawn Drifters before the summer sun has bite.

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