I spent a month in Australia from June this year, exploring from Cairns down to Melbourne.
Cairns
- Great Barrier Reef Diving – Highly recommend Divers Den Scuba Diving. If you have time, consider their liveaboard experience.
- Fitzroy Island – A scorching day but worth it.
- Cape Tribulation, Atherton Tablelands – Nice spots; you can swim in natural pools and encounter a variety of wildlife.
Magnetic Island
- The Forts Walk (around 2 hours)
- Geoffrey Bay, Nelly Bay
- Hawkings Point Sunset Hike
Whitsunday Islands
Truly a paradise! Warning: Avoid overnight tours, especially Avatar. The boat may be run-down, food might not be great, and you might end up sharing a bed with strangers. I recommend a day trip.
Brisbane
- Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary – A must-visit! You can feed kangaroos.
- Brisbane Botanical Garden – Picnicking with friends there is fantastic.
- Brisbane Cruise – Free! I suggest going during sunset.
- Museum of Brisbane – Free entry. Interesting art exhibitions.
Sydney
- Blue Mountains – A day trip with a breathtaking sunset.
- Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk – Takes about 2-3 hours. Bondi’s famous swimming pool costs $9 but is worth it.
- Manly – Personally, I enjoyed the Fairfax Track hike.
Melbourne
- Puffing Billy Lakeside – Honestly, not worth it in my opinion, maybe because I went in winter. The train ride with no windows was freezing, and the forest it passes through is average. Suitable for those with kids.
- Little Penguins – Adorable but chilly in winter.
- Melbourne Now at the Art Gallery – A must-visit. They have an intriguing Death VR exhibit. No queues in the morning!