
Are you up for discovering the unbelievable parts of Australia? From the famous red sands of Uluru to the unique pink color of Lake Hillier, this guide will lead you on an adventure to some of the most amazing places that you’ll be surprised to find in our own country. Whether you love exploring new places or just need some ideas for your next trip, these spots will definitely amaze you. Let’s start exploring and find the hidden treasures of Australia!
Our editorial picks for the most surreal destinations across Australia showcase the unique and breathtaking landscapes that make these spots truly unforgettable. Here’s a look at the best of the best:
- For a spiritual and iconic desert landscape: Uluru and Kata Tjuta, NT
- For an adventure among ancient limestone pillars: The Pinnacles, WA
- For untouched natural beauty and clear waters: Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island, QLD
- For a dramatic and powerful natural wonder: Horizontal Falls, WA
Uluru and Kata Tjuta, NT
Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a massive sandstone monolith standing proudly in the heart of the Northern Territory’s arid “Red Centre”. The rock itself is a deeply sacred site for the Anangu, the traditional Aboriginal owners of the land. Visitors are captivated by its stunningly rich red hues, which seem to shift and deepen at dawn and dusk. Beyond its visual spectacle, Uluru is a place of great spiritual significance; its ancient landscapes are rich with Aboriginal culture and history.
Just west of Uluru, Kata Tjuta, or The Olgas, compels with its mysterious allure. This group of large, domed rock formations is not only a geological wonder but also holds great cultural importance for the Anangu people. The site’s 36 red conglomerate rock domes are spread over an area of more than 20 kilometers, offering breathtaking walks through valleys and gorges. The area invites exploration and contemplation, promising a deeper connection with nature and an insight into the area’s ancient wisdom.
- How far from Nearest CBD: Approximately 450 km from Alice Springs
- Known for: Spectacular red rock formations, Aboriginal cultural significance
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/yr5cXjTpi4Huh56w5
The Pinnacles, WA
Emerging from the shifting yellow sands of Nambung National Park near Cervantes, the Pinnacles are an eerie and surreal sight. These ancient limestone pillars make up one of Western Australia’s most fascinating landscapes. Formed over millions of years, these spires feel otherworldly, as if Mars has touched down on Earth. The desert setting of these towering formations changes color with the moving sun, shifting from golden hues to deep, haunting shadows, making sunrise and sunset particularly spectacular times to visit.
The journey to the Pinnacles is a quick escape from the everyday, located just a few hours’ drive north of Perth. This makes it an easy addition to any travel itinerary in the region. Whether you’re walking among them or viewing from the scenic drive, the Pinnacles offer a unique adventure in one of Australia’s most distinctive landscapes.
- How far from Nearest CBD: About 200 km north of Perth
- Known for: Unique limestone formations, desert landscape
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/oKiVN3DHutnfFh2t7
Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island, QLD
Whitehaven Beach is known for its 7 kilometers of incredibly white silica sand, which is some of the purest in the world. It’s located on Whitsunday Island, which is part of the Great Barrier Reef, and this beach has crystal clear waters and lush greenery, making it feel like a piece of paradise. You can get to the beach by boat, seaplane, or helicopter, which all offer a beautiful way to arrive at this famous spot. At the northern end of the beach, the swirling sands of Hill Inlet mix together, creating a stunning mix of colors that symbolize natural beauty and peace.
The perfect condition of Whitehaven Beach is carefully maintained; it’s protected as part of a national park, and efforts to keep its natural beauty are clear. It’s a place where you can relax, have an adventure, and just have a great time, with the nearby waters providing chances to snorkel among colorful coral reefs full of marine life.
- How far from Nearest CBD: About 1,100 km north of Brisbane
- Known for: Immaculate white silica sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xAimPALDkwmT1A6t7
Horizontal Falls, WA
Horizontal Falls, described by David Attenborough as “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world,” is not your typical waterfall. These powerful tidal currents force water through narrow coastal gorges, creating horizontal waterfalls in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. The phenomenon is so dynamic that the direction of the flow reverses with the changing tides, offering a unique spectacle each time. The best way to experience this natural wonder is by seaplane or boat, which allows you to see the falls up close and feel the power of the rushing water.
Visiting the Horizontal Falls provides an adrenaline-pumping adventure that combines the beauty of the Kimberley coast with the thrill of navigating one of nature’s most unusual creations. This remote location is accessible from Broome or Derby, making it a fantastic addition to any travel itinerary in the region, especially for those looking for something truly out of the ordinary.
- How far from Nearest CBD: About 220 km northeast of Broome
- Known for: Unique tidal waterfalls, adventure tours
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KJd3Q45MWVRRCDy28
Bay of Fires, TAS
The Bay of Fires on Tasmania’s northeast coast offers an otherworldly landscape of white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and granite boulders covered with bright orange lichen. Stretching over 50 kilometers from Binalong Bay to Eddystone Point, this coastal area is a paradise for photographers and nature lovers alike. The vivid contrast of colors here makes the Bay of Fires one of Tasmania’s most photogenic spots, with its fiery boulders seeming to glow at sunrise and sunset.
Whether you’re camping under the stars, enjoying a beachside picnic, or exploring the secluded coves by kayak, the Bay of Fires has something to offer every type of traveler. Its pristine natural environment is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in one of Australia’s most stunning coastal settings.
- How far from Nearest CBD: Approximately 275 km northeast of Hobart
- Known for: Stunning coastal scenery, orange-lichen covered boulders
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Cd5PCoJ8V91JziLC7
Kangaroo Island, SA
Kangaroo Island, just off the coast of South Australia, is a sanctuary for wildlife and natural beauty. Known as Australia’s zoo without fences, this island offers incredible opportunities to see native wildlife such as kangaroos, koalas, and echidnas in their natural habitat. But it’s not just the animals that make Kangaroo Island special; the island is also home to remarkable natural formations like the Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, which provide dramatic backdrops for any visitor’s photos.
The island’s diverse landscapes, from sandy beaches and rocky cliffs to eucalyptus forests and secluded coves, make it a must-visit for nature lovers. Whether you’re exploring Flinders Chase National Park, tasting local wines, or simply relaxing by the sea, Kangaroo Island offers a peaceful retreat with a sense of adventure.
- How far from Nearest CBD: 112 km southwest of Adelaide (includes ferry travel from Cape Jervis to Penneshaw)
- Known for: Diverse wildlife, natural beauty
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tKeFdqKgsVi2NDMx8
Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles, NT
Karlu Karlu, also known as the Devils Marbles, is a collection of gigantic granite boulders, many of which are precariously balanced on top of one another. Located in the traditional country of the Warumungu, Kaytetye, Alyawarra, and Warlpiri people, these formations hold great cultural and spiritual significance. The site is a photographer’s dream, especially at sunrise or sunset when the warm light ignites the red and orange hues of the rocks.
The conservation reserve is located just off the Stuart Highway, about 100 km south of Tennant Creek, making it easily accessible for those traveling through the Northern Territory. Visitors can wander among the boulders on a network of walking paths and learn about the geological processes and Aboriginal stories that have shaped this landscape over millions of years.
- How far from Nearest CBD: Approximately 393 km north of Alice Springs
- Known for: Massive granite boulders, Aboriginal heritage
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NGvFDTdB8SqvHvny5
The Kimberley, WA
The Kimberley is a vast and ancient landscape in the northwestern corner of Australia, where you’ll find some of the country’s most stunning natural wonders. This region is defined by rugged ranges, dramatic gorges, semi-arid savanna, and a largely isolated coastline. It’s a place where you can cruise the wild rivers, fish in the abundant seas, fly over the Mitchell Plateau, and watch the staircase to the moon on the mudflats of Roebuck Bay.
Broome, the pearling town on the edge of the Kimberley, is the perfect gateway to this wild region. From here, you can venture into the heart of the Kimberley, to places like the Bungle Bungles, Lake Argyle, and the Horizontal Falls. The Kimberley is also home to some of the oldest Indigenous rock art in the world, found in places like the Mitchell Plateau.
- How far from Nearest CBD: Over 2,000 km northeast of Perth
- Known for: Breathtaking landscapes, Indigenous culture
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/AmRNKmNLxGzW7bZs7
Hutt Lagoon, Port Gregory, WA
Hutt Lagoon presents a visual marvel with its vibrant pink waters, a stark contrast against the scenic backdrop of the Australian coast. Located near the small fishing village of Port Gregory, this shallow saltwater lake is best viewed from above, offering a surreal landscape reminiscent of a vivid painting. The unique pink hue is due to the presence of carotenoid-producing algae, Dunaliella salina.
Beyond its stunning appearance, Hutt Lagoon is a paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike, providing a palette of unexpected colors. Access to the lake is straightforward, allowing for easy visits to experience its beauty firsthand. It is an exceptional destination for those seeking a break from the mundane, with scenic drives and footpaths along the shore.
- Distance from Nearest CBD: Approximately 515 km north of Perth
- Known for: Brilliant pink waters, accessibility, and picturesque surroundings
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nXjWHErFNuSHx1719
Tasman National Park, TAS
Tasman National Park, located on the Tasman Peninsula, is a place of raw beauty, with some of the highest sea cliffs in the world and a rugged coastline that’s been sculpted by the Southern Ocean. The park is a haven for marine life, including seals, dolphins, and migrating whales, and offers some of the most thrilling coastal walks in Australia, such as the Three Capes Track.
The park’s highlights include the dramatic Tasman Arch, the Devil’s Kitchen, and the Remarkable Cave. Visitors can also learn about the area’s dark history at the nearby Port Arthur Historic Site, a former penal colony. The Tasman Peninsula is about a 1.5-hour drive from Hobart, making it an accessible day trip or a stunning location for a longer stay.
- How far from Nearest CBD: Approximately 95 km southeast of Hobart
- Known for: Dramatic sea cliffs, coastal walks, rich history
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Vhjufps9Fn9pSbDu6
Cradle Mountain, TAS
Cradle Mountain is one of Tasmania’s most beloved natural landmarks, located within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. The mountain presents a rugged silhouette against the skyline, and its surrounding landscapes offer some of the best hiking opportunities in Australia, including the famous Overland Track. The area around Cradle Mountain is rich in alpine heathlands and ancient rainforests, providing habitats for a wide array of wildlife.
Visitors to Cradle Mountain can enjoy a range of activities from leisurely walks around Dove Lake to challenging hikes up to the mountain’s summit. The area is also known for its high-quality, eco-friendly accommodation options, allowing visitors to stay comfortably in the heart of Tasmania’s wilderness. This iconic destination is a must for anyone wanting to experience the natural beauty and raw, scenic landscapes of Tasmania.
- How far from Nearest CBD: Approximately 142 km west of Launceston
- Known for: Stunning alpine scenery, hiking
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/szXyP6zdF5eUtr2N9
Fraser Island, QLD
Fraser Island, or K’gari as it’s traditionally known, is a place of remarkable beauty. It’s the world’s largest sand island and a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting long stretches of white beaches, crystal-clear freshwater lakes, and ancient rainforests growing right out of the sand. The island is a haven for adventure seekers, with 4WD tracks that lead to shipwrecks, colored sands, and remote headlands. It’s also a wildlife hotspot, where you can spot dingoes in the wild and humpback whales off the coast.
Visitors can explore the island’s natural wonders, like the iconic Lake McKenzie, with its unbelievably clear water and pure silica sand, or float down the lazy current of Eli Creek. The island is accessible by ferry from Hervey Bay, which is a short flight or a few hours’ drive from Brisbane. Whether you’re camping under the stars or staying at one of the eco-resorts, Fraser Island offers an unforgettable experience where nature’s beauty is on full display.
- How far from Nearest CBD: About 300 km north of Brisbane
- Known for: Pristine beaches, freshwater lakes, rainforest
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/RpbVnswRXrAMWiyE9
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit Uluru and Kata Tjuta?
The best time to visit Uluru and Kata Tjuta is during the cooler months from May to September when the weather is more comfortable for walking and outdoor activities.
How do I get to The Pinnacles from Perth?
The Pinnacles are located about 200 km north of Perth. You can drive there in approximately 2.5 hours via the Indian Ocean Drive.
Is Whitehaven Beach accessible without a boat?
No, Whitehaven Beach is only accessible by boat, seaplane, or helicopter as it is situated on an island without bridge or road access.
Are there tours available to see Horizontal Falls?
Yes, there are several tour operators that offer boat and seaplane tours to experience the Horizontal Falls from nearby towns like Broome and Derby.