Incredible places in Australia: Why the AUD drop isn't all bad news

The Aussie dollar may be down, but its incredible travel offerings are not.

It’s true, the Australian dollar has hit a five-year low, making it pretty tough for many of us to travel overseas right now. While that isn’t ideal, some of the most unique places in Australia quite literally cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

We’re lucky enough to call this beautiful and fascinating place home, so when it really comes down to it, there’s so much to explore right here that there’s no need to travel anywhere else.

Here are 10 incredible places in our country that prove Australia should be the main event, not the backup option.

1. Daintree Rainforest, Qld

Not only is the Daintree Rainforest magnificent – especially once you cross the Daintree River into Cape Tribulation, you suddenly feel transported to the age of dinosaurs, it’s so easy to imagine them chomping their way through this dense and vibrant green foliage – and at 130 million years it holds the title of the oldest continually surviving rainforest in the world.

The plant and animal life you can find here today is millions of years older than the Amazon, and thriving. From an exclusive waterfall tour of Cassowary Falls to tasting the Daintree Ice Cream Company’s iconic frozen treats, find the best ways to immerse yourself in the Daintree with this list of our favourite things to do.

mosman, daintree rainforest places in australia — See the ancient Daintree Rainforest. (Image: TEQ)

2. Arnhem Land, NT

Not only does Australia have some of the oldest landscapes, but it’s also home to the world’s oldest living culture. While there are fascinating experiences to enrich your knowledge of Australia’s Indigenous peoples all over the country, why not start in the place where the oldest evidence of this culture was discovered? Arnhem Land.

The Madjedbebe site – a rock shelter found at the base of the Arnhem Land escarpment – is dated at 65,000 years. Sitting 300 kilometres east of Darwin in Mirarr Country, ancient artefacts – like tools and ochre crayons used to make pigments – were found here, and proved that the previous estimates of Indigenous people living in Australia fell far short of the truth.

Get out and explore the most incredible places in Arnhem Land with our ultimate guide to planning a trip there.

guide showing indigenous cave art in arnhemland — Learn about the world’s oldest culture in Arnhem Land. (Image: Tourism NT/ Shaana McNaught)

3. Great Barrier Reef, Qld

About 344,400 square kilometres, more than 2900 individual reefs and 900 islands make up the Great Barrier Reef; the largest coral reef system in the world and is one of the World’s Seven Natural Wonders. Stretching for 2300 kilometres along Queensland’s coast from Bundaberg to the tip of Cape York Peninsula, there are so many ways and places to explore its vibrant marine life.

Whether you prefer to get a bird’s-eye view from a helicopter, jump on a glass-bottomed boat, or get up close by snorkelling and diving, this guide to picking the best location for you should be your first read. Then you can read our pick of the best accommodation options, and the best tours.

aerial shot of two people snorkelling in the great barrier reef — Dive into one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. (Image: TEQ)

4. Stockton Bight Sand Dunes, NSW

Hidden just on the edge of Port Stephens, the Stockton Bight Sand Dunes is a spectacular place that most Australians still don’t know about. Created thousands of years ago, these are the largest moving coastal dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. Exploring them can feel like exploring a desert, or another planet, as they stretch so far that you often can’t see anything but sand.

Personally, a quad bike ride with Sand Dune Adventures – an Indigenous-led not-for-profit run by the Worimi Local Aboriginal Land Council – is the absolute best way to see these dunes, but there are many other options. Pick your favourite from our top picks list, here.

Stockton Bight Sand Dunes nsw places in australia — Ride a quad bike through Stockton Bight Sand Dunes. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Great Australian Desert, Central Australia

When combined, this country’s 10 deserts become the Great Australian Desert: the fifth largest (after the Antarctic, the Arctic, the Sahara and the Arabian) and among the most untouched in the world. Australia’s deserts are so large that they cover about a fifth of our nation’s mainland.

So it’s no surprise that both the terrain and the wildlife that call it home are incredibly diverse and unique to Australia. Find landscapes that range from semi-desert grassy or mountainous to red sand dunes and rocky plains to great salt pans. So where to start an Australian desert adventure?

Start here with our guide to the best and easiest ways to navigate our deserts, then have a gander at our top picks of the most incredible outback experiences to have around the country.

person walking through the South Australian Outback — Explore the fifth of Australia that is covered by desert. (Image: Getty/ Philip Thurston)

6. Lark Quarry, Qld

In 1962, a fossilised footprint on Cork Station (about a 1.5-hour drive out of Winton) became the most significant dinosaur discovery in Australia (and the world). Continuing exploration of the area found over 3300 footprints in what was clear evidence of a dinosaur stampede, the only known record of a dinosaur stampede in the world.

Those same footprints are still on display today at Lark Quarry . See the footprints for yourself as you walk around the boardwalks, or join a 45-minute guided tour to learn more.

While you’re there, be sure to check out the rest of what Winton has to offer, for both dinosaur enthusiasts and everyone else.

dinosaur footprints at Australian Age of Dinosaurs in winton qld — See part of the Lark Quarry stampede at the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum. (Image: TEQ)

7. Ningaloo Reef, WA

The World Heritage Site of Ningaloo Reef is not only surrounded by beautiful beaches just begging you to relax on an extended holiday (and the world’s largest fringing reef), but it’s the only place in Australia (and one of few in the world) where you can not only see but swim with whale sharks. Every year, hundreds of these giant sharks, the largest known fish in existence, come to the Ningaloo to find food from March to July.

And that’s not all you’ll see in these crystal clear (and delightfully warm) waters. About 450 different species of marine life call it home for the whole or part of the year, including humpback whales, manta rays, dugongs, dolphins and turtles.

Read this guide to discover our favourite ways to explore this beautiful part of Western Australia.

person snorkelling with a whale shark in ningaloo reef western australia — Swim with whale sharks. (Image: Tourism WA)

8. Coober Pedy, SA

So this is more of a man-made wonder, but the natural abundance of a beautiful little stone saw Coober Pedy become the opal capital of the world. It’s also one of the most unique towns in the world, given that the majority of it – from mines to churches to housing – resides underground in an effort to beat the stifling heat.

It’s truly an Australian bucket list place, and you can start planning your adventure here.

two people underground in Coober Pedy south australia — Head underground to experience Coober Pedy. (Image: South- Australian Tourism Commission)

9. Phillip Island, Vic

Little penguins, the smallest of all penguins, can only be found along the coast of Australia and New Zealand. But where better to guarantee a sighting than Phillip Island, home to one of the largest little penguin colonies in the world.

Just a 90-minute drive from Melbourne (and connected to mainland Victoria by a bridge) book a ticket to the famous nightly Penguin Parade . Elevated boardwalks make for perfect viewpoints as a controlled number of visitors watch these feathered locals return to their burrows every night as the sun goes down. Plus your ticket supports more research into and care for these waddly creatures.

Need even more penguins in your life? Read our list of the best places to spot them in Australia.

[enguin parade on phillip island victoria — Watch little penguins head home for the night on Phillip Island. (Image: Visit VIC)

10. The Blue Mountains, NSW

The Blue Mountains are no secret to Australians, but not many realise that these beautiful rocky mountains are actually 10 times older than the Grand Canyon. In fact, the ancient rocks underneath the mountains are estimated to be about 470 million years old.

That alone makes them worth a visit, but then add the blue-tinged beauty and idyllic towns dotted along this area, and you’ve got a recipe for the perfect holiday. For tips on everything to do, from dining out to staying in, hiking, swimming, wine-tasting and more, read our Blue Mountains travel guide. The outdoorsy types should also check out our favourite hikes in the area, all the better to immerse yourself in this ancient landscape.

the three sisters at the blue mountains new south wales — Gaze on rock formations older than the Grand Canyon. (Image: Destinaion NSW)

There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

Where to stay

The Westin Melbourne

Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

Where to eat and drink

1. Allegro

Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

2. Lobby Lounge

the westin melbourne lobby lounge — Step into the Lobby Lounge.

Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge .

The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea . You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

3. Other places to dine

diners at supernormal melbourne — There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet , the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

Things to do

1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

a bridge across yarra river — Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

2. Browse the boutique galleries

two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria — See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery , Arc One Gallery , Outre Gallery , Caves Gallery , Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary , allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria . The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

3. Catch some live music

live music at the cherry bar in melbourne — Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement , Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar , or larger ones, such as The Toff , Forum and Palais Theatre , for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground — Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre — Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.

Australia isn’t a plan B: here’s why the AUD drop isn’t all bad news