103 things to do in Australia this summer

From road trips to secret beaches, day hikes and sunset sails: Alissa Jenkins gives a state-by-state rundown on hot activities to keep you on the go this summer.

No matter where you are in Australia this summer, find out the best activities available near you….

New South Wales

1. Head to Sydney’s Royal National Park

(Drive south of the CBD along the Princes Highway for about 45 minutes, turning into the “Nasho” Park at Loftus). You’ll find some of the best beaches in the Aussie bush here, such as Wattamolla, which has a sandy unpatrolled ocean beach as well as a sheltered lagoon perfect for young families to wade in. There’s also a picturesque waterfall and a shady grove of trees to fall asleep under after you’ve had lunch. If you really love it – you will! – there is a two-day guided hiking tour along the Royal Coast Track that includes an overnight camp at Wattamolla (see lifesanadventure.com.au). About 10 minutes south of Wattamolla you’ll find Garie Beach (the one on this issue’s cover), which is great for surfing and beach fishing, and has a modern surf club with some of the best public toilet facilities in nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

 

2. Skydive over Wollongong’s North Beach

…for an aerial view of the South Coast beaches and Illawarra Escarpment. skydive.com.au

3. Take to the Hunter hills on horseback with Glenworth Valley’s extensive horse riding school

Which has more than 200 horses and ponies. Visitors can choose from guided or free-range rides, while youngsters can be led.
glenworth.com.au/horse-riding

4. Mountain-bike your way through the Blue Mountains

Winding along the region’s network of scenic fire trails. Rides can range from half-day trips to multi-day adventures that take you from Katoomba all the way to Mittagong.
rdmh.com.au

5. Monkey around in the shady forests at Treetop Adventure Park

Within Blue Gum Hills Regional Park, Newcastle. There are more than 90 treetop challenges to try, including various flying foxes and swinging bridges. treetopadventurepark.com.au

6. Kayak on Australia’s best-known harbour

Past famous landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Tours include kayak tuition and a picnic lunch on a secluded beach, which depending on conditions can take place at Watsons Bay, Double Bay or Shark Island. lifesanadventure.com.au

7. Learn to sail on the calm waters of Pittwater in Sydney’s north

…in a relaxed and safe environment. With courses for both adults and children available, everyone can have a go. byra.org.au

8. Dive the HMAS Adelaide

A ship that was deliberately sunk off the coast of Terrigal in April this year to make an artificial reef. The 138m ship is already covered in barnacles and is home to marine life including blue gropers and cuttlefish.

9. Hire a houseboat on the Hawkesbury River

For a scenic summer break on the secluded waterway. Stays can range from two days to a fortnight, during which time guests can enjoy swimming and fishing, or pull over for some nearby bushwalking or shopping. hawkesburyhouseboats.com.au

10. Spend an evening on the historic James Craig tall ship as it cruises around Sydney Harbour

…and gain an insight into life a century ago. shf.org.au

11. Learn to wakeboard on the Tweed River

…with the help of specialist school ProWake Academy. Classes range from half-hour to multi-day and from beginner to professional, with hire gear included.

12. Enjoy the Sydney Harbour Circle Walk

…is a 59km stroll skirting the bays and inlets west of Sydney Harbour Bridge, including suburbs such as Balmain, Drummoyne, Hunters Hill, Lane Cove, Willoughby and North Sydney. Passing pockets of rainforest, historic landmarks and islands, with plenty of public transport points, it can be completed as a series of shorter walks over several days.

13. Explore Grose Valley Cliff Top Walk

…is a breath-taking 3km trek around the edge of Grose Valley, between Govetts Leap and Evans Lookout in the Blue Mountains. It takes about an hour and 45 minutes to complete. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

14. Walk the Main Range Walk from Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko

…is almost 22km in length (taking about nine hours to complete), and can be done on a guided tour. Showcasing some of the best alpine landscapes in NSW, it involves climbing the highest peak in Australia and crossing the renowned Snowy River. wildwalks.com

Queensland

15. Watch newly hatched turtles scrambling across the sand to the sea at Mon Repos Beach

In Bundaberg from mid-November to February. bundabergregion.org

16. Head to the hippy town of Woodford

…for the annual six-day Folk Festival, from December 27 to January 1. Music, markets and lazy days in the sun. woodfordfolkfestival.com

17. Hire a board and go sand tobogganing down the giant dunes of Moreton Island

Sit, lie down or, for the real adventurous types, try going down backwards. seemoretonisland.com/tobogganing.html

18. Skim over the trees in six-person gondolas on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

It glides just above the canopy from Cairns to Kuranda, offering panoramic views of the tropical scenery and Barron Falls. skyrail.com.au

19. Escape the summer heat and go underground at the remote Undara lava tubes in outback north Queensland

Caused by a volcanic eruption some 190,000 years ago, the tubes offer a rare insight into Australia’s geological past. undara.com.au

20. Go for a sail with the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron around Green Island near Cairns

As part of its WAGS program (Wednesday Afternoon Go Sailing). rqys.com.au

21. Kayak on Brisbane River

Either during the day or at night, and paddle past some of the city’s prominent landmarks such as the Brisbane Botanical Gardens and the Maritime Museum riverlife.com.au/kayaking

22. Venture to the outer Great Barrier Reef

…and dive among the vibrant underwater gardens and sea life. Various packages are available, for everyone from first-time to advanced divers. divingcairns.com.au

23. Paraglide over stunning Rainbow Beach on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast

…with the added security of a tandem tour. No experience is necessary. paraglidingrainbow.com

24. Experience Warrie Circuit

…is a 17km walk through Springbrook National Park, just inland from Tweed Heads on Queensland’s border with NSW. It begins at Canyon Falls Lookout and is a trek of five to six hours through pristine subtropical rainforest, featuring numerous waterfalls at which you can cool off. nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/springbrook/about.html

25. Adventure through the Upper Gorge track in Boodjamulla

…or Lawn Hill National Park is situated within Queensland’s remote north-west highlands. It involves a 7km return walk across sandstone cliffs lining Lawn Hill Gorge and down along the creek edge. It is recommended for experienced bushwalkers and best started early morning. nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/boodjamulla-lawn-hill/

26. Explore Crediton Creek Walking Trail

…is an 8km one-way trek through Eungella National Park, near Mackay. The scenery is magnificent as the track follows Broken River towards Crediton Creek. Recommended for advanced hikers with a vehicle pick-up at Crediton Creek. brokenrivermr.com.au

Australian Capital Territory

27. Glide over the city in a hot-air balloon and see Canberra’s unique street planning from above

Arrange a ride at sunrise before the summer sun has bite. dawndrifters.com.au

28. Celebrate Australia Day 2012 in the nation’s capital at Rond Terrace

…where there’ll be live bands, activities and rides throughout the morning. Then at sundown head to the shores of Lake Burley Griffin for a spectacular fireworks display to an Australian soundtrack. australiaday.org.au

29. Canberra puts a twist on the classic summer ice-cream with its original frozen custard creamery, Goodberry’s in Erindale

Grab one and go for a stroll to Lake Tuggeranong, which has walking tracks and a skate park. goodberrys.com.au

30. Pump up your tyres, or hire a bike ready-pumped, and take a leisurely cycle around Lake Burley Griffin

Head to mrspokes.com.au for more information.

31. Make the most of balmy summer nights and catch outdoor movies every Saturday night throughout January and February at Arc Cinema, at the National Film and Sound Archive.

Head to nfsa.gov.au/arc for more information.

32. Hire a paddleboat for a day of family-friendly fun on Lake Burley Griffin

For a faster pace there are also rowing, sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking and dragon boating available. actboathire.com

33. Get a group of six or more together and go on a guided kayak through local wetlands

The tour starts at Commonwealth Place on the southern side of Lake Burley Griffin and journeys around new Kingston Harbour and into local wetlands, taking two to three hours to complete. realfun.com.au

34. Make a splash at Canberra’s impressive waterpark

…featuring five heated pools and eight water slides. bigsplashwaterpark.com.au

35. Swim with the best at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) swim centre in Belconnen

The indoor complex includes 50m and 25m heated pools. ausport.gov.au

36. Pack a picnic and head down to the western end of picturesque Molonglo Gorge in Queanbeyan

The picnic area is equipped with a children’s playground, flushing toilets, fire pits, gas barbecues, picnic tables and a stone shelter.

37. The Mount Tennent climb starts from Namadgi Visitor Centre

…near Tharwa, about 25km south of Canberra. It continues 4km to the top of the mountain where there are panoramic views to Canberra to the north, the Brindabella Mountains to the west and the Australian Alps to the south. australianalps.environment.gov.au

38. Explore Square Rock Walking Track

It begins at Smokers Gap, just 20km south of Canberra, and is a walk of one to two hours through high-country bush. The highlight is Square Rock – a prominent outcrop of granite boulders that offer expansive views over the upper Cotter and Tidbinbilla. Take caution as there are some stone steps, steep cliffs and steel ladders along the way. tams.act.gov.au

39. Adventure within the Murrumbidgee River Corridor

…just south of the city is a 14km trek for advanced hikers stretching from Casuarina Sands to Kambah Pool. It largely follows the river through native scrub, but also veers into open grazing country and high above the river. It takes about eight hours and is only suitable as a one-way walk. tams.act.gov.au

Victoria

40. Lie back and enjoy the outdoor cinema at Falls Creek this summer

For more information and to book, visit fallscreek.com.au

41. Channel the Man from Snowy River with a horse riding tour in Victoria’s High Country

…through the Bogong High Plains and surrounding national parks. Rides range from an hour and a half through to five-day camping trips and cater for various riding abilities. horsetreks.com

42. Beat the heat among the ancient trees at Melba Gully in the Otways

…and return at night to see the resident glow-worms in action. visitgreatoceanroad.org.au

43. Take a scenic bike ride along one of Australia’s best bike tracks – the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail

Flat, sealed and passing many local food producers, it’s suitable for a range of fitness levels and ages. murraytomountains.com.au

44. Enjoy balmy summer nights at one of Melbourne’s many outdoor bars, such as Riverland bar on the Yarra

For more information, head to riverlandbar.com

45. Take a scenic 40-minute ferry ride from Queenscliff to Sorrento, or vice versa

Linking two of Victoria’s magnificent coastal regions: the Bellarine Peninsula and Mornington Peninsula. The daily ferry service with Searoad Ferries transports both passengers and cars so you can get out and explore at your own pace before jumping back on board. searoad.com.au

46. Swim with dolphins and seals within the southern reaches of Port Phillip Bay

An area renowned for unique sea life. dolphinswims.com.au

47. Drive the Great Ocean Road and learn to surf along the way

Once you’ve mastered the art, you can test your skills at Bells Beach near Torquay – home of the Rip Curl Pro Surf Tour. gorsurftours.com.au

48. Fish to your heart’s content on the Grampians’ many waterways, such as Lake Wartook, Lake Fyans and Rocklands

It’s a freshwater fisherman’s paradise, with the region home to brown and rainbow trout, redfin, Murray cod and silver perch, among other species. www.visitvictoria.com

49. Hire a houseboat on the renowned Murray River as it flows through northern Victoria

Stop off and explore the townships along the way from Corryong to Mildura, or enjoy fishing, swimming or canoeing from the boat. murrayriver.com.au/houseboats

50. Adventure down the Dandenong Ranges Tourist Track

It’s a 17km stroll past cool creeks, gullies and eucalypt-covered ridges, graded moderate to easy. It can be undertaken from either direction, starting from the townships of Sassafras or Emerald, and can be broken up into shorter sections by stopping at picnic areas along the way. parkweb.vic.gov.au

51. A new walk to try in Mount Hotham this summer is the Huts Walk

It links three of Hotham’s historic huts – Spargo’s, Derrick and Silver Brumby – and encompasses a range of landscapes such as shady forests, damp gullies and waterfalls. mthotham.com.au

52. Explore The Camel Pad Track

…through Hattah-Kulkyne National Park follows the route used by camel riders to transport salt from Sunset Country to the Murray River over 100 years ago. It is a gentle 10km walk from Hattah General Store to Lake Mournpall campground, and is abundant with wildlife, especially native birds. visitvictoria.com

Tasmania

53. Have a hit on Barnbougle Dunes

Said to be the best public golf course in Australia, it is spread across 200 acres of undulating coastal dunes in Bridport, on Tasmania’s northern coastline, overlooking Bass Strait.

54. Abseil the Gordon Dam in Tasmania’s south-east

It’s the highest commercial abseil in the world. But if you’re not ready for the 140m drop, there are other choices between 30m and 50m. aardvarkadventures.com.au

55. Hobart’s Taste Festival is a summer must

A celebration of Tassie produce including salmon, oysters, cheese and wine. Running from December 28 to January 3 at the Princes Wharf, it will coincide with the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race – the finish line is a ten-minute walk up the wharf. hobartsummerfestival.com.au

56. Humans aren’t the only ones who enjoy warm nights, as visitors will discover on a guided night tour at East Coast Nature World throughout summer

Expect to see nocturnal natives such as Tasmanian devils and quolls. natureworld.com.au

57. Rent a holiday home right on the beach

Such as Tidal Whispers in Boat Harbour on the north-west coast of Tassie. It features panoramic ocean views, two bedrooms, outdoor decks and steps leading directly from the house to the water. Bliss. rent-a-home.com.au/accommodation/tas/

58. Get an adrenalin rush on a jet boat on the upper reaches of the Derwent River

35km north-west of Hobart. The 12-seater jet boat was designed and built in Tasmania especially for Derwent River conditions, allowing it to skim over exploding white water and between exposed rocks. deviljet.com.au

59. Try your hand at fly-fishing in Tasmania’s Central Highlands

Rich in trout, summer is said to be one of the best times for the sport, when fish can be easily spotted, rising to the surface to feed on plentiful summer insects. troutguidestasmania.com.au

60. Hop on board an award-winning three-hour wilderness coastal cruise, along the untouched southern coastline of Bruny Island

Expect to see some of the tallest cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere and an abundance of sea life, such as dolphins, seals, seabirds and migrating whales. pennicottjourneys.com.au

61. Raft down one of the world’s last great wild rivers

The Franklin, located in Tasmania’s rugged south-west. raftingtasmania.com

62. Following a tour of Hastings Caves, located 90 minutes’ drive south of Hobart

Dip into the nearby thermal pool which is fed by an ancient spring. Alternatively, walk along the Hot Springs Track to the point where two streams converge, and feel the warm current from one stream meet the cold current of the other. parks.tas.gov.au

63. Explore the Mt Donaldson walk

It’s a half-day, medium-graded trek through the Tarkine wilderness in Tasmania’s north-west. The mainly gravel track meanders through open myrtle forest and grassy plateaus, past rivers and up Mt Donaldson. At the top, vast views extend from the West Coast Ranges to the sea. discoverthetarkine.com.au

64.  Wineglass to Wine Glass is a full-day guided walk on the east coast of Tassie

It takes in spectacular views from the Hazards Mountains of the ocean surrounding Freycinet Peninsula, and along the white sandy shores of Wineglass Bay. A banquet of fresh local produce is also included as part of the tour. discovertasmania.com.au

65. Walk the Walls of Jerusalem day walk

…in the state’s north showcases the Jurassic landscape of this national park, part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. It includes stunning views of dolerite peaks, lakes and caves and takes up to nine hours to complete. Recommended for experienced bushwalkers, as there are limited facilities within the park. parks.tas.gov.au

South Australia

66. Escape the heat above ground and explore the World Heritage-listed Naracoorte Caves

In the east of the state, home to more than 100 known fossil deposits. Discover them solo or join one of many tours available for a deeper insight. environment.sa.gov.au/naracoorte

67. Go for a scenic ride through the Barossa on a gourmet bike tour

Visiting the region’s renowned wineries and food producers along the way. barossabikehire.com

68. See wild sea lions in their natural environment at Seal Bay Conservation Park

On the southern coast of Kangaroo Island. It’s well worth it! tourkangarooisland.com.au

69. Few things can quench a thirst like a crisp cold beer on a hot summer’s day, so knock a couple back at Cooper’s Brewery in Regency Park.

Museum and brewery tours available. coopers.com.au

70. Nothing says Australian summer like cricket, so head down to Adelaide Oval and watch a match

– perhaps the Australia-India Test? cricketsa.com.au

71. Take a romantic gondola cruise on the River Torrens through the heart of Adelaide

Cruises run all day (including sunset) seven days a week, and passengers can indulge in some Australian sparkling wine along the way. adelaidegondola.com.au

72. Get up close and snappy with great white sharks on a cage diving tour in Port Lincoln

For more information head to it sharkcagediving.com.au

73. Kayak through Adelaide’s dolphin sanctuary and spot these aquatic acrobats in their natural environment

The tour also includes an informative commentary from the guide. adventurekayak.com.au/

74. Step back in time and ride a 19th-century paddle steamer down the Murray River

For a summer getaway with a difference. A variety of locations and packages are available. murrayriver.com.au/paddleboats

75. Try your hand at kite surfing on Eyre Peninsula along the Whyalla foreshore

Which offers perfect conditions for the sport. xtremekitepaddle.com.au

76. Adventure down the Riesling Trail

It traverses the picturesque Clare Valley wine region and was one of the first rail-trails to be developed in South Australia. Starting in the township of Clare and ending in Auburn, it passes many local cellar doors and covers 27km. The trail is also well compacted and is suitable for walkers, cyclists, wheelchairs and prams. southaustraliantrails.com

77. Explore Curley Creek Hike

…through Cape Gantheaume Conservation Park is located on the southern coast of Kangaroo Island. Approximately 40km south-west of Kingscote. The hike follows an old fire access track that skirts the edge of Murray Lagoon (the island’s largest freshwater lagoon), and climbs Bald Hill, offering great views over the lagoon. southaustraliantrails.com

78. Adventure the Second Falls Gorge Hike

It’s a 5.3km loop through Morialta Conservation Park, situated at the base of the Adelaide Hills, 20 minutes’ drive from the centre of Adelaide. Although there is a steep hike at the beginning to reach the rim of Morialta Gorge, hikers will be rewarded with views of tumbling waterfalls and scenic valleys. southaustraliantrails.com

Western Australia

79. Summer is the best time to see our cold-blooded Australians making the most of the heat, so pay a visit to Armadale Reptile Centre.

For more information head to armadalereptilecentre.com.au

80. Take a scenic flight over the dramatic Horizontal Waterfalls

Created by massive tidal movements through a narrow inlet. Located within the Buccaneer Archipelago on the northern WA coast, this phenomenon has been described by David Attenborough as “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world”. derbytourism.com.au

81. Take a ferry from Fremantle to Rottnest Island for a family-friendly day outing

Swim, cycle, sunbake and indulge in all sorts of summery goodness. rottnestexpress.com.au

82. Bunk down on the Swan River Foreshore in Perth for a family picnic overlooking the water and city

There are barbecues, playgrounds and public toilets available, as well as a nearby dual cycleway-walk trail and a regular ferry service from Barrack Square. westernaustralia.com

83. Experience a guided culinary tour of foodie paradise Margaret River

…sampling locally-produced wine, beer, chocolate and cheese. margaretrivertours.com

84. While much of the Kimberley is out of action in summer due to the wet season, now is the perfect time to witness the drama on a cruise along the spectacular coastline

Head to northstarcruises.com.au for more information.

85. Hire a boat and go crabbing in the waterways surrounding Mandurah on the far south coast

From December to April, the population of blue manna crabs explodes, making it an ideal time to catch them and cook up a summer delicacy. bluemannaboathire.com.au

86. Make the most of sea kayak season and take a paddling tour off the Perth coastline

To see unique Australian wildlife such as sea lions, fairy penguins and a pelican colony. capricornseakayaking.com.au

87. Swim with wild dolphins at Rockingham

45 minutes south of Perth (closer than Monkey Mia!) through the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. dolphins.com.au

88. Go water-skiing away from the choppy ocean at Bonney’s WA Water Ski Park

30 minutes south of Pert, the park encompasses five manmade freshwater lakes across 150 acres, as well as barbecues, showers and a café. bonneyswaterskipark.com.au

89. Walk the Warren River Loop Walk

It’s a 10km, moderately challenging trail that passes through magnificent old-growth karri forests in the state’s far south-west It follows the Warren River (which you can swim in), and features sweeping views, fast rapids at Heartbreak Crossing and scenic picnic areas. toptrails.com.au

90. Adventure own Lesueur Walk Trail

It’s a moderate track through Lesueur National Park on the Coral Coast. At the summit, walkers can soak up expansive views over the surrounding park, agricultural land and out to the sea. Although the first 250m is a wide bitumen track that is suitable for prams and wheelchairs, the remainder of the 4km trail is sandy. toptrails.com.au

91. Explore he Woylie Walk

It’s is an easy loop trail through Dryandra Woodlands, about 190km south-east of Perth. The woodland is a conservation area for rare and endangered animals so walkers are bound to encounter native wildlife. The 5km walk takes just two hours to complete and there are several picnic areas along the way to enjoy lunch at. toptrails.com.au

Northern Territory

92. Avoid road closures caused by the Wet and see the Top End from above with a scenic helicopter flight

Featuring the spectacular Jim Jim Falls in flood. kakaduair.com.au

93. Sit back with a few beverages on Darwin’s waterfront at the Sailing Club

…and watch the evening storms roll in over the harbour. dwnsail.com.au

94. Hop on a camel tour at dusk

After the heat of day has subsided, and see the sunset over Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. cameltracks.com

95. From November to April, the Rapid Creek Monsoon Markets run from 5pm to 10pm every Thursday night just north of Darwin CBD.

They include a variety of arts and crafts on sale, plus food and entertainment. rapidcreekshoppingcentre.com.au

96. Buckle up for a three-day 4WD safari through the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park

Tours are available from early February and are specifically designed to showcase the best of the wet, featuring waterfalls, hikes, Aboriginal bush tucker education sessions and ancient rock art. kakadu4wdsafaris.com

97. Make the most of the Red Centre’s full waterways

Replenished by the summer rain, and swim in the mighty Ellery Creek Big Hole, Big Rankine Waterhole or the Big Bend Waterhole. nt.gov.au

98. Get up close (enough) to saltwater crocs

…in the safety of a cruise boat on the Adelaide River. Cruises start on the Adelaide River Bridge, located 67km south-east of Darwin on the Arnhem Highway, and run for an hour in total. jumpingcrocodile.com.au

99. Canoe Katherine Gorge and soak up the stunning scenery of Nitmiluk National Park

…with its sandstone carved by the Katherine River.

100. Get a group of ten friends together and head out on Darwin Harbour on board a historic pearling lugger

You might also find yourself with front-row seats to some spectacular wet season thunderstorms – popular among locals. streetercruisers.com.au/

101. For a safe crocodile- and stinger-free swim in Darwin, head to the Wave Lagoon within the city’s waterfront precinct

It has a range of different waves up to 1.7m in height, and is suitable for the whole family – from boogie board riders to toddlers. waterfront.nt.gov.au

102. Explore Ormiston Pound Walk

Located 140km west of Alice Springs, is a circuit of three to four hours around the scenic slopes of the pound and Ormiston Gorge. After heavy rainfall some waterholes throughout the gorge may require swimming or wading through, so pack swimmers. During summer it is advised hikers start the walk early in the morning (ie 5am) and carry water, as it can be very hot. nt.gov.au

103. Walk the Barrk sandstone bushwalk

…through Kakadu National Park is a 12km circuit through rugged country. There is no formed path, but the route is indicated by orange triangular markers. Weather can be hot and humid at the end of dry season forcing closures, so check ahead for local conditions. Once the Wet sets in, the walk is spectacular for seeing seasonal plants and wildlife. environment.gov.au