Lazy beach days

Adelaide is a new city in an old land, founded as a British colony in 1836 and now the capital of South Australia. Today, its rich mix of diverse cultures has adopted a relaxed and cosmopolitan lifestyle amidst green parks as well as 30km of beaches stretching along its suburbs. The city is famous for its al fresco eating culture, and it is the centre of the Australian wine industry, with some of the best food and drinks in the world.

The Ballina/Byron region is delightfully diverse. It ranges from the quiet family world of Ballina to Byron Bay, the former hippy capital of Australia. Byron Bay was once a simple whaling station later rediscovered by surfers. Now, long after the 60s, the place is swarmed with tourists and celebrities wishing to experience this alternative town, which is still one of the most hippy destinations on the East Coast.

Brisbane is a bustling, cosmopolitan city with excellent restaurants, beautiful riverside parks, a busy cultural calendar, and lively nightlife. Queensland's capital city is surrounded by some of the state's major tourist attractions, and there is an abundant choice of day trips. Explore the coast for the golden beaches or go inland for some of the region's serene bushland — there is something for everyone here.

Broome, tucked away in North-Western Australia, is just a quick two and a half-hour flight from Perth. This town brims with colour, culture and stunning scenery. Picture the fiery red ochre cliffs contrasting against the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Step back in time with dinosaur footprints that whisper tales from the distant past. The pearling industry, a cornerstone of the local economy, invites you to explore its fascinating history and the exquisite jewellery.

From World Heritage rainforest to sparkling beaches, the Byron Bay region on the NSW North Coast is full of natural wonders. The Aboriginal Arakwal people call it Cavvanbah — The Meeting Place. The area is also famous for its surf culture, alternative philosophies, organic food and outdoor adventures. Byron Bay's natural attractions are impeccable: humpback whales cruise past the headland, dolphins frolic in the bay and storms create rainbows on the mountains. People from all walks of life meet here, drawn by Byron Bay's vibrant energy.

People have been flocking to Cairns in search of treasure since the first gold rush. However, the prospectors of today come to mine the abundance of natural and environmental treasures that surround the city. With the tropical rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef in close proximity, Cairns attracts a young and intrepid crowd that adds to the vibrancy of this lively and welcoming city.

Rising majestically from the tropical depths of the vast Indian Ocean, and surrounded by the azure waters of Asia's southern fringe lies a stunning natural wonder — Christmas Island! Its name alone is intriguing and stirs interest. This tiny island in the Indian Ocean is a truly fascinating paradise, inviting you to uncover its remarkable surprises of nature in a one-of-a-kind environment. Venture to this awe-inspiring island for an unforgettable getaway.

Coffs Harbour is a paradise of attractions, offering everything from thrilling skydives and underwater adventures to dolphin shows and waterfront dining. Nearby, you can walk above a rainforest canopy in the World Heritage wilderness. Known for its bananas, fish and surf, this coastal city on the NSW North Coast lies at the southern edge of the Solitary Islands Marine Park, a haven for turtles and a fantastic spot for diving. Relax on beautiful beaches in Coffs, a much-loved destination halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, easily reachable by air, road or rail.

Darwin is a thriving, prosperous and multicultural city with lively bars and wide-ranging international cuisine. It is lush, tropical, and the gateway to top-end outback adventures through the world heritage Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks. Darwin boasts an eclectic cultural mix: Asian music, food, and languages live side-by-side with aboriginal artistry, Australian beach culture, love of the outdoors, and a profound appreciation of cosmopolitanism.

The paradise-like Fraser Island is known first and foremost as a whale watching destination. The wider Fraser Coast region offers plenty of other amazing places and adventures. This picturesque area is centred around the twin cities of Hervey Bay and Maryborough. Check out the former gold mining town of Gympie and the beautiful natural surroundings, both on land and in the water. The warm and mild climate makes this region perfect to explore all year round.

Australia’s Gold Coast is a diverse city, offering action packed days and fun filled nights to over 10 million visitors each year. Families, couples, business delegates and solo travellers will all find an experience to suit their needs and budget, as the Gold Coast serves up more attractions and venues than any other destination in the southern hemisphere. Get into the Gold Coast’s easy living lifestyle with 70 kilometres of sun, sand and surf at your doorstep plus 100,000 hectares of world heritage-listed rainforest just a short drive away.

Situated amidst the 74 Whitsunday Islands of the Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island offers an experience like no other: glorious weather, azure waters, brilliant beaches, wondrous coral reefs, unique flora and fauna, divine food and wines, and a buzzing calendar of special events. With its laid-back luxury and activities almost too numerous to mention, Hamilton Island is the next island in the Great Barrier Reef you should visit.

Situated halfway between Brisbane and Cairns, Mackay is surrounded by lush rainforests, pristine white sandy beaches, and the fertile Pioneer Valley. It is home to one of Australia’s richest sugar cane growing regions. Beyond its shores, the Great Barrier Reef's awe-inspiring coral formations, diverse marine life, and serene islands offer a tropical paradise for all. With its outstanding dining options, picturesque parks, and thriving art scene, Mackay caters to every taste and budget.

Located right at the mouth of the Hunter River, Newcastle is the hub of the Hunter Valley wine region in New South Wales. It's home to stunning beaches, a rich heritage of Victorian architecture and plenty of live music events for all tastes. There are also lots of places for recreation, hiking and outdoor adventures nearby. Whether you are looking for vibrant city life or a spectacular natural retreat, in Newcastle you will get it all.

A combination of big city comforts, good weather and a laid-back approach to life make Perth one of the most livable cities in the world. It is a youthful and cosmopolitan city. In terms of entertainment, nightlife and cultural activities it can stand up to even the fiercest competition. When it comes to food, Perth raises the bar, boasting fabulous beachfront restaurants, succulent seafood and some of the country’s best vineyards. An excellent public transportation system allows visitors to explore the city with ease.

Rockhampton is known by many as the unofficial capital of Central Queensland and as the official beef capital of Australia, with three million head of cattle calling the region home. With its historic buildings and tree-lined streets facing the Fitzroy River, Rockhampton is a great place to visit. Its location on the Tropic of Capricorn gives the city over 300 days of sunshine a year. Enjoy the beaches of the Capricorn Coast, or explore the region’s national parks and caves.

The Sunshine Coast is undoubtedly one of Australia’s most beautiful regions with amazing beaches, stunning sunlight, picturesque hinterland and plenty of breathtaking views. The vast area, which extends along the golden Pacific coast for nearly 60 kilometres, offers a wonderful and immense mix of cultures, cuisine, nature and outdoor activities that are all ready to be explored.

Sydney is Australia's most famous city, with the majestic Sydney Opera House, the impressive steel arch of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the sparkling waterways and the white sands of Bondi Beach. Beneath this glittering surface, Sydney has many more enchanting layers to discover. This beautiful cosmopolitan city celebrates its cultural diversity and heritage, and passion for tarts and sports. A temperate climate makes Sydney spectacular at any time of the year, and the city's friendly, casual attitude keeps visitors coming back Down Under for more!

With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Townsville is a popular destination for sun seekers and provides easy access to the Great Barrier Reef. Situated in the dry tropical region, Townsville serves as a gateway to the Outback, wet tropical rainforests, and wetlands teeming with birdlife. A number of tropical islands can be easily reached from Townsville. Boasting a 2.2-kilometre beachfront area known as The Strand, it is an exciting and vibrant city to visit.

The sun, sea and sand combine to make the Whitsunday Coast the ideal place to relax. Enjoy the great atmosphere and nightlife in a spectacular setting. This beach lover’s paradise offers everything you need to make your stay unforgettable. Close to the Great Barrier Reef and just 26 kilometres from the Whitsunday Islands, there is plenty to see and do. Backpackers and families alike will enjoy attractions such as the Airlie Beach Lagoon and the amazing croc safaris up the Proserpine River.