1. Airlie Beach - The Whitsundays Gateway

Tucked along Queensland’s Coral Sea coast, Airlie Beach is a vibrant tropical town that serves as the launching point for the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. Its laid-back atmosphere, palm-lined beaches, and astounding turquoise waters make it a dream destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.

What makes Airlie Beach truly shine is its connection to 74 Whitsunday Islands, many of which are uninhabited and protected as national parks. Visitors can embark on sailing trips, luxury yacht charters, or day cruises that explore white-sand beaches like Whitehaven Beach, famous for its pure silica sand and crystal-clear shallows. Snorkeling and diving in the nearby reefs reveal a kaleidoscope of marine life, including tropical fish, manta rays, and coral gardens.

Back in town, Airlie Beach offers a mix of backpacker hostels, boutique resorts, and lively bars and restaurants. The Airlie Beach Lagoon, a man-made swimming area overlooking the ocean, is a family-friendly spot perfect for cooling off and relaxing.

For those craving adventure, activities like skydiving, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and hiking the Conway Circuit provide plenty of ways to explore both land and sea. Whether you want to relax under palm trees or dive into aquatic thrills, Airlie Beach offers the perfect balance of serenity and excitement.

2. Grampians National Park - Victoria’s Wilderness Jewel

Located in western Victoria, Grampians National Park (Gariwerd) is a rugged mountain range known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and rich Aboriginal heritage. A world away from the coast, the Grampians offer a different kind of Australian beauty - wild, ancient, and deeply connected to the land.

The park is a hiker’s paradise, with well-marked trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. Popular routes include the Pinnacle Lookout, which rewards hikers with sweeping views over Halls Gap and beyond, and MacKenzie Falls, one of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in the region. The multi-day Grampians Peaks Trail offers an immersive experience for serious trekkers.

Beyond its natural wonders, the Grampians are steeped in culture. The area is home to some of Australia’s most significant Aboriginal rock art sites, many of which can be visited with the guidance of local Indigenous custodians. The Brambuk Cultural Centre in Halls Gap offers insight into the park’s spiritual and historical significance.

Wildlife lovers will enjoy spotting kangaroos, emus, wallabies, and echidnas throughout the park. The clear night skies also make the Grampians an excellent location for stargazing and photography.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural exploration, or simply a break from the city, the Grampians offer a raw, immersive escape into Australia’s heartland.