20 hidden natural wonders you’ve probably never heard of

The hidden natural wonders that are wowing visitors, without the crowds.

Australia is home to some of the most iconic natural landmarks on Earth – think Uluṟu, the Great Barrier Reef and Wineglass Bay. But a new study has uncovered 20 jaw-dropping Aussie destinations that deserve just as much attention – and yet most people have never heard of them.

The research by Mitsubishi Motors Australia analysed over 50,000 Australian locations using data from TripAdvisor, Google and SEO platforms. The goal? To uncover places with exceptional visitor ratings but minimal online searches – aka, Australia’s best-kept secrets. From sacred sites in the Northern Territory to lava tubes in Queensland, these are the hidden spots that offer big wow factor without big crowds.

1. Gunlom Falls, NT

People swimming in Gunlom Falls — Gunlom Falls is wildly underrated. (Image: Lords Safaris)

This legendary Top End icon has finally reopened after a six-year closure – and it’s as jaw-dropping as ever. Located within World Heritage–listed Kakadu National Park, the steep but rewarding climb to natural infinity pool Gunlom Falls reveals panoramic views over the escarpment, while the lower pool is equally magical. It’s a sacred site to the Mirarr Traditional Owners, so visitors are asked to tread respectfully and follow all signage.

2. Mount Coot-tha Summit Lookout, Qld

Mount Coot-Tha Lookout in Brisbane — Mount Coot-tha is close to Brisbane’s CBD. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

A Brisbane local favourite that deserves wider acclaim, the Mount Coot-tha Summit Lookout serves up sweeping vistas over the city skyline to Moreton Bay. Just 15 minutes from the CBD, it’s the perfect place to watch the sunrise or soak in golden hour with a coffee from the summit cafe. The surrounding forest trails and Botanic Gardens make it one of Queensland’s most accessible escapes.

3. 75 Mile Beach, K’gari, Qld

A beach that doubles as a national highway and a landing strip? That’s 75 Mile Beach on K’gari, the world’s largest sand island. Stretching along the island’s eastern coast, technicolour sand cliffs, crystal-clear creeks like Eli Creek, and natural rock pools such as the Champagne Pools flank this wild and windswept stretch of sand. Four-wheel-drive adventurers will relish the freedom of the open sand, but it’s the untouched beauty that leaves the biggest impression.

4. St Columba Falls, Tas

St Columba Falls in Tasmania — St Columba Falls plunges more than 90 metres. (Image: Jason Charles Hill)

Hidden deep in Tasmania’s north-east near the town of Pyengana, St Columba Falls is one of the state’s tallest permanent waterfalls, plunging more than 90 metres through a forest of tree ferns, sassafras and myrtle. The short rainforest walk to the falls is atmospheric, and it’s not uncommon to spot platypuses in the river below. Few make the detour, but those who do are richly rewarded.

5. Grassy Hill Lookout, Qld

Grassy Hill Lookout in Cooktown — Grassy Hill Lookout is Cooktown’s most panoramic vantage point. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Cooktown’s most panoramic vantage point, Grassy Hill, is steeped in both natural beauty and complex history. In 1770, it was from this hill that Captain Cook climbed to chart a safe passage for the Endeavour after damaging the ship on the Great Barrier Reef. Today, the lookout offers panoramic views over the Coral Sea and Endeavour River, and serves as a reminder of the need to reflect on both the natural and cultural significance of place. The sunsets are particularly memorable, painting the landscape in warm hues of gold and orange.

And the rest of the hidden gems are…

6. Kelly’s Knob, WA

A local favourite in Kununurra, this rugged outcrop delivers 360-degree views of the East Kimberley and is magic at sunset.

Kelly’s Knob Lookout in the Kimberley — Be awed by the view from Kelly’s Knob. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

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7. Guide Falls, Tas

This tucked-away waterfall near Burnie is surrounded by rolling farmland and is ideal for a peaceful picnic with a view.

Guide Falls in tasmania — Guide Falls is a peaceful place to visit. (Image: Mason Doherty)

8. Hamelin Pool Marine Nature Reserve, WA

Home to ancient living fossils called stromatolites, the Hamelin Pool Marine Nature Reserve is a must-see in Shark Bay.

Hamelin Pool Marine Nature Reserve in Western Australia — Visit the Hamelin Pool Marine Nature Reserve. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

9. Fraser Avenue Lookout, WA

Set within Kings Park in Perth, this lesser-known lookout has dreamy views across the Swan River and city skyline.

Fraser Avenue Lookout in Perth — This lesser-known lookout has dreamy views over Perth. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

10. The Nut State Reserve, Tas

Take the chairlift or hike to the top of this flat-topped volcanic plug in Stanley for panoramic views of Bass Strait.

The Nut State Reserve in Tasmania — Ride the chairlift to the top of The Nut. (Image: Lusy Productions)

11. Chillagoe-Mungana Caves, Qld

Explore ancient limestone caves and Aboriginal rock art sites in this remote outback pocket west of Cairns.

Chillagoe Pompeii Cave in Queensland — Explore Pompeii Cave. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

12. Day Dream Mine, NSW

Located near Silverton, this historic mine gives insight into 1880s silver mining and is a fascinating stop in the outback.

13. Thunder Point Coastal Reserve, Vic

Near Warrnambool, this rugged coastline is a prime spot for watching wild surf and spotting Southern Right whales in season.

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14. Undara Lava Tubes, Qld

Venture underground to walk through one of the world’s longest lava tube systems, a true geological wonder in the outback.

Undara Lava Tubes Queensland — Venture underground to explore the Undara Lava Tubes. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

15. Woolshed Falls, Vic

Set near Beechworth, these cascades are framed by smooth granite rocks, perfect for paddling or relaxing post-hike.

Woolshed Falls in Beechworth, Victoria — Visit Woolshed Falls. (Image: Getty Images/tracielouise)

16. Coombabah Lakelands, Qld

This Gold Coast nature reserve is brimming with wildlife, from kangaroos to koalas, and has peaceful boardwalks to explore.

17. Crystal Cave, Yanchep, WA

One of many limestone caves in Yanchep National Park, this one offers a magical underground experience just an hour from Perth.

18. Cutta Cutta Caves, NT

These tropical limestone caves near Katherine are home to rare ghost bats and fascinating stalactite formations.

19. Coral Bay, WA

A dreamy snorkelling destination on the Ningaloo Reef, minus the crowds of Exmouth.

Coral Bay in WA — Coral Bay is a lesser-known gem. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

20. Mount Charlotte, WA

Perched above Kalgoorlie, this spot offers insight into the Goldfields’ mining history and epic outback sunset views.

How many have you ticked off?

Tasmania’s crisp clear air, misty mountains, lakes and ancient forests beckon as winter approaches.

Travelling in the off season has many benefits, none more so in Tasmania, where it’s uncrowded and uncomplicated. Ease into winter with a getaway that spells relaxing with a glass of wine or local whisky, bathing under the stars, or gazing at reflections in pristine waters. Add fireside dining, wilderness walks, after-dark gallery visits and plenty of history and you’ve got a curated winter escape designed to make travelling in the quieter months of the year even more rewarding. NRMA Parks and Resorts’ Off Season Signature Packages across Tasmania (plus 10 per cent off for members) make all these things possible.

Cosy up at Cradle Mountain

two women walking aorund Cradle Mountain Hotel NRMA Parks and Resorts — Immerse into the wilderness at Cradle Mountain Hotel.

For an alpine wilderness experience like no other, chose Cradle Mountain Hotel for a winter getaway. You may even wake up to gently falling snow. Explore nearby Dove Lake, gaze at Cradle Mountain is and listen to the gush of waterfalls.

As Cradle Mountain works its charm, slow down to enjoy the crisp alpine air away from the hustle of the city. There are no crowds here, just serenity and the chance to recalibrate.

Cradle Mountain’s Off Season Signature Package includes two or more nights’ accommodation, breakfast daily, a bottle of wine (Retreat rom bookings only) and off-season dessert with dinner. Then sip on mulled wine as you wander through the Wilderness Gallery admiring the work of Tasmanian artists.

Finding the flavours of Freycinet

aerial of Freycinet Lodge NRMA Parks and Resorts — Stay at the only accommodation within beautiful Freycinet National Park.

As the only accommodation within Freycinet National Park, among the many reasons for staying at Freycinet Lodge is its easy access to stunning Wineglass Bay, Mt Amos and Honeymoon Bay.

By day it’s the place for communing with nature, taking hikes in some of Tasmania’s most beautiful locations. By night, savour the regional seasonal flavours of the east coast, sip mulled wine to keep out the chill and gaze up at the star-studded skies. This is slow coastal indulgence at its best.

Freycinet Lodge’s Off Season Signature Package includes two or more nights’ accommodation, breakfast daily, a hosted Flavours of the East Coast food and wine tasting experience and mulled wine under the stars, or beside the fire, after dinner.

Escape to lakeside Pumphouse Point

interior of pumphouse point NRMA Parks and Resorts — Stay cosy while looking out onto Lake St Clair.

Set on the edge of beautiful Lake St Clair in native bushland in the heart of Tasmania’s Central Highlands, Pumphouse Point has launched a new era for its boutique accommodation with the opening of two new luxury retreat rooms last October.

Each of the trio of rooms are thoughtfully designed, with an indoor fireplace and deep-soak bathtub, both perfect for a winter escape. This retreat offers dining and an expanded collection of hosted experiences, including a guided tour to learn more about this historic place, chocolate tastings and whisky tasting from local artisans – with more to come later in the season.

Borrow an e-bike and explore on your own, throw a line in, head off for a hike in the ancient forests that surround the lake, book a relaxing massage, or just settle in for an evening by the fire as the lake works its own magic.

Pumphouse Point’s Off Season Signature Package includes two or more nights’ accommodation, breakfast, larder lunch and dinner, a bottle of wine with dinner each night, and a chocolate or whisky tasting experience, as well as two $50 massage vouchers.

Slow down in Strahan Village

aerial of boat going through strahan tasmania — Explore UNESCO world heritage wilderness.

As the gateway to UNESCO world heritage wilderness, picturesque Strahan Village is the ideal base for exploring Tassie’s west coast. With a wide range of accommodation choices, from cosy waterfront colonial-style cottages to hotel rooms with sweeping views over Macquarie Harbour, it’s the perfect place for slow travel.

Join Gordon River Cruises to explore ancient wilderness and magical reflections on the Gordon River, wander through the village at your own pace or hire a bike to discover local secrets and attractions, including the iconic West Coast Wilderness Railway. Thrill-seekers can hire taboggans to hit the towering Henty Dunes.

Strahan’s Off Season Signature Package includes two or more nights’ accommodation, a Gordon River cruise for two and mulled wine at Hamer’s Bistro.

Delve into history in Port Arthur

interior of glamping tent at Port Arthur Holiday Park NRMA Parks and Resorts — Glamp under the stars at Port Arthur Holiday Park.

Spend your evenings glamping under the stars and your days stepping back in time as you explore the captivating stories of the World Heritage listed Port Arthur Historic Site. Port Arthur Holiday Park is the perfect base for exploring the Tasman Peninsula and uncovering the stories of Australia’s colonial and convict past.

Surrounded by nature and history, this off-season escape has the all the makings of an unforgettable getaway. All glamping tents are heated to keep you warm during the off-season months when the nights get a little cooler, and have private bathrooms. Stargazing tents have the added luxury of an outdoor bath on the verandah.

The Port Arthur Off Season Signature Package includes two or more nights’ accommodation, a Port Arthur Historic Site tour for two and 10 per cent discount for dining at local restaurant On The Bay during your stay.