The next chapter of Australian travel isn’t about more, bigger or better. It’s about choosing experiences with more care.
In an era when algorithms might be able to tell us where to go, but not why it matters, the idea of an anti-bucket list feels timely. For decades, travel has been framed around cramming in as many places as possible – a race around the world before our time runs out. Australian Traveller is upending that logic – not in a bid to abandon ambition, but to question it. To shift the focus from collecting destinations to engaging with them – travelling more slowly, more intentionally, and with a greater regard for place.
The Australian Traveller anti-bucket list isn’t about doing less; it’s about paying closer attention. The destinations that follow are not new; what’s new is how to approach them. From long-distance tracks in Western Australia to a landmark loo in Maryborough, each offers a way of travelling that values context over ticking off a checklist. Here’s where to go deeper and stay longer.
The South West region of WA
Hikers are dwarfed by the scale of the Great Southern coast. (Image: Rachel Claire & Jessica Wyld)
The tea-coloured water contrasts with the clear blue ocean. (Image: Rachel Claire & Jessica Wyld)
How to visit differently: Walk a 60-kilometre section of the Bibbulmun Track with Cape2Camp as an exercise in digital disconnection rather than endurance. With phones switched off, and logistics sorted, tiny details – like the land, the light, the weather and the people moving through the landscape – come into focus.
The Tweed, NSW
The power of Wollumbin viewed across the cane fields. (Image: Hannah Puechmarin)
Why you should visit: In addition to its coastal towns, quaint villages and green haze of the hinterland, the Tweed has emerged as one of Australia’s most compelling food regions. On Bundjalung Country, the scene is grounded in stewardship: of soil, of stories and of community. Visit the restaurants led by chefs, producers and educators redefining what sustainability looks like in practice.
Michele Stephens is the co-owner of Farm & Co. (Image: Hannah Puechmarin)
How to visit differently: The Tweed’s culinary scene is being carefully shaped by local women. Time a visit around the annual Savour the Tweed festival when many of the region’s female farmers, chefs and First Nations voices come together around shared tables. Use the festival as an entry point; in the Tweed, the richest experiences come from who is leading the conversation and why.
Kakadu National Park, NT
Witness more birdlife on the Yellow Water (Ngurrungurrudjba) billabong. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/@cruising.cat)
Why you should visit: Kakadu is full of big-ticket sights. Wetlands spill into tropical savannahs, rocky escarpments rise from floodplains, caves swirl with ancient rock art and billabongs are alive with crocodiles. It is a place of dramatic seasonal change, where waterfalls thunder after the wet and contract into stone amphitheatres in the dry. Few national parks offer this scale of biodiversity alongside such deep, continuing Indigenous custodianship.
How to visit differently: Look to the skies. Kakadu is home to more than 280 bird species – around a third of Australia’s total – and birdwatching offers a more mindful way to move through the park. Time a visit with Kakadu Bird Week in September when wetlands and woodlands come alive with kingfishers, finches and raptors.
Coonabarabran & Broken Hill, Outback NSW
Spot the Milky Way in Broken Hill. (Image: Destination NSW/Damian Bennett)
Why you should visit: The vast arid landscape of Outback NSW is furnished with termite mounds, skeletal trees, car cemeteries and broken-down sheds collapsing into the dust. Broken Hill sits at its centre; a mining town long favoured by artists for cinematic skies captured so memorably in The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. Coonabarabran, gateway to the Warrumbungles, has a very different identity with its volcanic peaks and mountainous landscape the main attraction. Geographically, it’s like slicing a layer cake of Australia’s existence.
How to visit differently: Visit at night. With minimal light pollution, this is one of Australia’s greatest noc-tourism regions. Stargaze in Warrumbungle National Park, the nation’s first Dark Sky Park, or time a visit to Coonabarabran with events like the OzSky Star Safari. In Broken Hill, guided shows under a blue-back sky add context. Plan travel around celestial moments such as meteor showers, equinoxes or lunar eclipses and let darkness, rather than daylight, inform the itinerary.
Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.
AI Prompt
The WA Coast: Fremantle to Broome
Discover the contrasting elements of Cape Peron. (Image: Imogen Eveson)
Why you should visit: Australia’s west coast is one of the most biodiverse shorelines on the planet. Between Fremantle and Broome lie whale migration routes, coral reefs, remote islands, shipwreck history and living Indigenous culture. What is most thrilling about this vast marine corridor is that it’s where nature, science and stories converge far from the crowds.
Enjoy evening entertainment back onboard Le Soléal. (Image: Imogen Eveson)
How to visit differently: Travel on an expedition cruise with PONANT Explorations, sailing from Fremantle to Broome. Naturalists lead Zodiac excursions to the islands and reefs rarely reached by travellers, while whale encounters, shore landings and lectures replace port hopping.
The Murray River
Cruising the Murray is one of the best ways to discover this stunning region. (Image: Krista Eppelstun)
Why you should visit: The towns that have sprung up along the banks of the Murray River offer everything from slow stays to incredible epicurean experiences. While the Murray is the main event, you’ll stay for everything it leads you to, from the otherworldly landscapes of Mungo National Park to candy-pink salt lakes and acclaimed wineries.
Weave through the scenic river red gum landscape. (Image: Krista Eppelstun)
How to visit differently: The Murray rewards travellers who slow to its pace. Travel with All Seasons Houseboats and let the mighty river set the rhythm. Wake at first light to watch the sun roll across the sky. Go swimming, birdwatching and fishing on the riverbanks. And cut yourself adrift from the binding timetable of the everyday along the river, which stretches across three states.
Enjoy a slice of the good life cruising the Murray River in Mildura! Where sun-kissed days meet tranquil waters, it's the perfect escape.
Maryborough, Queensland
Marvel at Maryborough’s military past. (Image: Joanne Karcz)
Why you should visit:Maryborough is a quietly substantial regional Queensland town, shaped by rail, river trade and civic ambition. It’s known for its heritage streetscapes, military history and as the birthplace of Mary Poppins author P.L. Travers.
Local artist Akos Juhasz painted the murals in the ladies’ and men’s restrooms. (Image: Joanne Karcz)
How to visit differently: Start with the public toilets. The art-filled Cistern Chapel turns a utilitarian stop into a cultural event, complete with murals, music and volunteer ‘flusher ushers’. It’s a reminder that civic pride can be playful and that sometimes the most revealing landmarks aren’t the ones signposted from the highway. The city centre attraction is part of the local mural trail.
Red Centre, NT
A quiet moment of stillness, looking up in awe at the walls of Kings Canyon. (Image: Tourism NT/@75vibes_)
Why you should visit: Travellers who visit the Red Centre in the low season (November to April) are rewarded with dramatic skies, shifting patterns of light, desert wildflowers and waterfalls that briefly transform iconic landscapes. With crowds thinned by the heat, and the Earth beaten by rain, wind and storms, the season offers up transformative moments in travel that very few experience.
Yalka Ratara Eco Camp sits softly on the earth. (Image: Sarbo Studio)
How to visit differently: Embark on a six-day Red Centre & Uluru Explorer tour with Intrepid Travel to meet Traditional Owners, linger at icons when the tour buses retreat, bed down at the gorgeous Yalka Eco Stays and embrace the beautiful unpredictability of the season. A wake-up call at dawn goes beyond beating the heat. Yes, it’s when the temperatures soften. But it’s also when mobs of kangaroos move through the spinifex and the rock faces shift from inky purple to rust and rose.
Enjoy dinner and a show under a dark desert sky at Earth Sanctuary. (Image: Tourism NT/Plenty of Dust)
Weekly travel news, experiences insider tips, offers, and more.
Clermont, Queensland
Take to the skies on a scenic flight with Bush Heli-services.
Why you should visit: Clermont is a reminder that the outback isn’t only found at the end of an epic road trip. Clermont is in the heart of Queensland’s historic gold country, just a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Mackay. It sits amid wide plains, quiet creeks and remnants of boom-and-bust ambition. The town is part of the Great Inland Way, a 16-day road trip from Sydney/Warrane to Cooktown/Gungardie.
How to visit differently: Do something hands-on. Fossick for gold with Golden Prospecting Tours, camp under the Milky Way or take a scenic flight with Bush Heli-Services to trace plains and waterways that follow the natural contours of the land. These are the modern-day riches you’ll discover in Clermont if you slow down, instead of passing through.
Bellarine Peninsula, Victoria
Score a taste of the quaint countryside surrounds. (Image: Unsplash/You Le)
Why you should visit: Victoria’s breathtaking Bellarine Peninsula will help you shrug off your big-city stresses. Here, the clang and clatter of crashing waves replaces traffic noise; vineyard roads taper into clifftop paths; and the unhurried way of life means meals always extend longer than planned. Visit the underrated peninsula for the well-preserved Victorian-era charm of Queenscliff to the coastal walks along Barwon Bluff and small producers pouring wine and spirits. The region is a prime place for a reset.
A retreat to reconnect and inspire slow living. (Image: Nikole Ramsay)
How to visit differently: Stay put. Discerning wellness warriors have long had Lon Retreat & Spa on their radar for its mineral pools and dreamy, adults-only suites. But the luxury hideaway, one of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, recently tapped into a rising interest in contrast therapy with its new immersive thermal environment. The sanctuary features a Finnish sauna, magnesium-rich pool, Swedish soak bucket and communal fire pit.
Hamilton Island, Queensland
Climb to the top of the popular Passage Peak Hamilton Island hike. (Image: Riley Williams)
Why you should visit: Spectacular Whitsunday blues, tropical island energy and endless activities under the sun – this tried-and-true destination is an Aussie family favourite for a reason. Whether you’re dining on freshly caught coral trout or kayaking at Catseye Beach, Hamilton Island invites travellers to reset for good.
Embark on an exhilarating new adventure on Hamilton Island. (Image: Harry Gruttner)
How to visit differently: Swap the typical flop-and-drop sun bed experience for an adrenaline-pumping adventure along Hamilton Island’s new e-mountain biking trails. You’ll get to connect with nature and challenge yourself while getting to see some of the island’s most stunning corners. It’s an invigorating new way to experience this popular destination anew.
Want to see more stories from Australian Traveller in your Google search results?
Tick the box next to "Australian Traveller". That's it.
Carla Grossetti has written across print and digital for Australian Traveller and International Traveller for more than a decade and has spent more than two decades finding excuses to eat well and travel far. A prestigious News Corp cadetship launched her career at The Cairns Post, before a stint at The Canberra Times and The Sydney Morning Herald gave way to extended wanders through Canada, the US, Mexico, Central America, Asia and Europe. Carla was chief sub editor at delicious and has contributed to Good Food, Travel & Luxury, Explore Travel, Escape. While living in London, Carla was on staff at Condé Nast Traveller and The Sunday Times Travel desk and was part of the pioneering digital team at The Guardian UK.
Ancient rainforest, coral reefs, laid-back luxury and adrenaline-fuelled adventures, Port Douglas offers a side of Australia unlike anywhere else.
Mornings in Port Douglas start with a beautiful symphony. As day breaks, the lyrical calls of Rainbow Lorikeets, cries of the sulphur-crested cockatoos and rhythmic Coral Sea waves create a colourful soundtrack for Tropical North Queensland’s sunrise. If there’s one place in Australia that captures the sweet spot between luxury and laid-back living, it’s here. This small, seaside village has just enough glamour to feel indulgent and just enough barefoot charm to make you feel like you’ve escaped the chaos of everyday life.
Whether you’re diving into the warm waters on Four Mile Beach or enjoying an ice-cold drink and a Barramundi burger overlooking the marina, Port Douglas offers more than just a seaside holiday.
Local gourmet goodies
Nab an open-air table beneath a canopy of palms at Nautilus. (Image: Toby Stanley)
The tropical food scene in Port Douglas is influenced by the rich agricultural regions surrounding it, with fresh produce arriving daily from nearby farms and tropical growers across the region. At Nautilus – a hidden, palm-fringed restaurant just off Macrossan Street – the menu showcases regional flavours. Its Signature Nautilus Mango Soufflé is a long-time favourite.
Nearby, Hi-Tide by the Beach offers a relaxed way beachfront dining experience overlooking the Coral Sea. From crocodile and lemon myrtle spring rolls to wild barramundi and a volcanic hot stone steak, taste the diverse flavours of Tropical North Queensland.
Visitors can also explore the region’s local markets. Port Douglas Markets offers artisan products and tropical treats each Sunday, while the Saturday morning Mossman Markets is the place for fresh local produce from the surrounding farming community.
Just outside of Port Douglas, Ospreys at Thala Beach Nature Reserve has one of the region’s most memorable dining outlooks. Perched on a small headland between rainforest and sea, take in views across the coastline and mountains while you dine. The seasonal menu highlights local seafood, tropical fruits and native ingredients sourced from across the region
Travelling with young humans
Catch a spectacle at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. (Credit: TTNQ)
Port Douglas caters for all types of visitors, but families especially love the walkable streets, wide beaches and range of activities nearby. An attraction that never fails to delight all ages is Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures – a wildlife sanctuary and ecotourism park with some of the region’s largest crocodiles. Here, you’ll also find koalas, cassowaries, turtles and other Australian wildlife.
For something slower paced, sit back and enjoy a tranquil visit aboard the historic Lady Douglas River Cruise. Glide along the calm waters of Dickson Inlet, keeping an eye out for birdlife and estuarine crocodiles along the mangroves. Children can take part in activity sheets onboard and even have the opportunity to help steer the boat.
This region is also deeply connected to Indigenous culture, and a Dreamtime Walk is one way to learn about it. Discover the stories, traditions and connection to Country of the local Kuku Yalanji people from local Indigenous guides, while exploring the rainforest and waters of Mossman Gorge.
Exploring local waterways
Walk along the peaceful Cooya Beach. (Credit: TTNQ)
Join a guided tour with Walkabout Cultural Adventures to explore the peaceful Cooya Beach. Led by deeply knowledgeable local Aboriginal guides, try seasonal local bush tucker, take in the beautiful landscape and gain insight into the history, culture and traditions of this land.
Surrounded by dense canopy and ancient species, nearby Hartley’s Creek Falls are at their finest after rain. These beautiful falls are reached via a lush rainforest walk that winds through creek crossings, towering greenery and moss-covered boulders.
To swim where the locals swim, head out past local farms and into the foothills of the Mossman River to Shannonvale – a low-key freshwater swimming hole surrounded by sun-warmed rocks and deep pockets of clear water. It’s a quiet area to spend a few hours retreating from the world.
Adrenaline adventures
Take to the ocean with Sailaway Port Douglas. (Credit: TTNQ)
One of the most high-octane ways to enjoy the nature of Tropical North Queensland is white-water rafting down the impressive Barron River. With Grade two and Grade three rapids, expect plenty of splashing, some teamwork, and a few moments where everyone in the raft screams and laughs at the same time.
Join Back Country Bliss for the most unique floating experience you’ll ever encounter. Head into the rainforest and float along the serene Mossman River on your individual board, taking in the sights and sounds of the ancient landscape around you.
If you prefer ocean swimming, Sailaway Port Douglas explores the idyllic Low Isles and the outer reef on their snorkelling tours. Enjoy the Great Barrier Reef from above or below and look out for coral gardens, giant clams, colourful reef fish and, if you’re lucky, sea turtles.
For land-lovers, the Devil’s Thumb is a challenging but rewarding hike with incredible views over the coast and endless cane fields. This 10km return hike will take around six to eight hours, so leave a whole day and pack snacks!
Experiences that give back
See the rainforest from above on The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. (Credit: TTNQ)
With two UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites – the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics of Queensland rainforest region – it’s not surprising Tropical North Queensland is a hub for eco-tourism. The stunning Daintree Ecolodge was founded on the principles of minimising environmental impact, supporting the local community and teaching guests about the local Indigenous culture. Their elevated rainforest-style ‘bayans’ are tucked among the trees, bringing nature into every part of a guest’s stay.
Further down the coast, the luxury bungalows and treetop hideaways of Thala Beach Nature Reserve are dotted across 45 acres of protected headland, forest and beach. The property’s design intentionally preserves large areas of native vegetation and beachfront ecosystem, while conserving the surrounding habitat. The private beach and various swimming pools offer a cool retreat from the heat of the day, while the main lodge offers the perfect place to read and relax.
The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, a 7.5-kilometre cableway between Cairns and nearby Kuranda, has won multiple tourism and environmental awards. It’s also the first tourism attraction in the world to achieve Platinum EarthCheck Accreditation, for its long-term environmental management and sustainability initiatives.
