Australian Tourist Hotspots (which aren’t ‘Sydney or Melbourne)

Remember that Australian tourism tv advert a few years back – “So, where the bloody hell are ya”? 

Well, where everyone is, is at home thanks to a worldwide pandemic. Australia, like most other countries, is forgetting about overseas travel and looking to rediscover what wonderful attractions can be found at home.

Here are some hotspots which aren’t Sydney or Melbourne and will welcome you with open arms to help generate a stable economy.   

Fraser Island and Hervey Bay

World Heritage-listed Fraser Island lies between Bundaberg and Brisbane off Australia's east coast. You can reach Fraser Island via ferry from Rainbow Beach and Hervey Bay.  Hervey Bay is the perfect base for first-class whale watching tours. 4WD safaris drive along 75 Mile Beach where you will spot dingoes, shipwrecks and rock pools.  There are great walks and over 300 bird species making a top destination for nature lovers.

Daintree National Park

In far north Queensland, only 45 minutes from relaxing Port Douglas you’ll discover Daintree National Park. Stay at the Daintree Ecolodge for a few nights and sleep amongst the trees.

Day trips to the picturesque Mossman township, Cape Tribulation and Great Barrier Reef snorkelling and diving charters make this a stunning spot to explore.

Thredbo, New South Wales

If skiing is more your thing, Thredbo is a pretty European-inspired village, and though cater for ski lovers, there are plenty of other activities if for non-ski days.  Lots of restaurants and retail, a leisure centre, mountain biking, yoga retreats, abseiling and Australia’s only alpine gondola.

When the ski conditions are great the Supertrail is Australia's longest run at 3.7 kilometres.  While Skiers and boarders make the most of 1,100+ acres of terrain, young kids will enjoy tubing and tobogganing park.

Margaret River

3.5-hour drive south of Perth you’ll find the gorgeous town of Margaret River.  It’s a favourite with local surfers (there are 40 big-break surf spots in the area), as well as limestone caves, galleries and a must-go for food lovers!

Tasmania

Tasmania seems to be a well-kept secret.  With heritage towns, many historical sites, fantastic wineries and food galore we think Tasmania is a secret worth sharing!  The Tassie Scallop Fiesta in August includes entertainment, food demonstrations, and all manner of delicious morsels. 

Tasmania’s culture centre, Hobart, lies between the sea and Mount Wellington which offers incredible views of Hobart and the surrounding areas.