18 of Australia’s most photographable places to visit

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Watch the likes roll in with the country’s most photo-ready sights.

Deconstructed breakfasts and over-styled selfies certainly work but nothing attracts instant Instagram gratification more than Australia’s most brilliant vistas. From iconic bucket list destinations to less-explored natural wonders, the country’s most picture-perfect attractions are guaranteed to set your feed alight.

1. BridgeClimb Sydney, NSW

You can capture the Sydney Harbour Bridge from countless angles but getting professionally snapped atop the coat hanger as the Sydney Opera House dangles in the distance is a coveted Instagram post on anyone’s wish list.

Sign on for BridgeClimb Sydney at dawn or dusk to experience both a carpet of twinkling lights and sensational sun shifts during the single journey.

people climbing up the BridgeClimb Sydney, NSW
BridgeClimb offers breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Luna Park, NSW

While you’re flooding your feed with Sydney standouts, head to Luna Park Sydney in Milsons Point for an astonishing Sydney Harbour Bridge vantage point.

a man giving his child a piggyback ride with the giant glowing Ferris wheel in the background at Luna Park Sydney
Strike an IG-worthy pose at Luna Park with the giant glowing Ferris wheel as your backdrop. (Image: Destination NSW)

Venture to the harbour’s edge towards the rear of the amusement park and you’ll capture the bridge, Opera House and the park’s rainbow-hued Ferris Wheel in the one frame. Visit early in the morning to beat crowds and limit scattered tourists littering your lens.

a family entering the Luna Park, NSW
Spend a fantastic day out with your family at Luna Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

3. Elephant Rocks, William Bay National Park, Western Australia

One of Western Australia’s most dramatic natural marvels, Elephant Rocks in William Bay National Park consists of several enormous oval-shaped boulders, resembling a herd of elephants rising out of crystal-clear waters.

the Elephant Rocks, William Bay National Park, Western Australia
William Bay National Park is renowned for its famed elephant-shaped rocks. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Get there early to score a spot in the William Bay Road carpark which is just a five-minute walk from the beachfront show. In terms of mapping out your trip, it’s about 14 kilometres southwest of Denmark in WA.

an aerial view of the Elephant Rocks, William Bay National Park, Western Australia
Elephant Rocks WA is surrounded by huge granite boulders. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

4. Bondi Icebergs Pool, NSW

No filters are required here. Even on the gloomiest days, Bondi Icebergs Pool is one of Australia’s most arresting eyefuls as ocean waves crash up against the 50-metre adult lap pool and slowly fizzle around the adjoining 25-metre section.

an aerial view of Bondi Icebergs Pool, NSW
Come by the coolest hotel swimming pool in Bondi Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

It’s a spectacular collision of blue and white and every shade in between. You’ll score a killer aerial view up on Notts Avenue at the southern end of Bondi Beach even if it’s cluttered with sightseers and Bondi to Bronte coastal walkers. The pool is so huge down below, you can’t miss it.

a top view of Bondi Icebergs Club, Sydney
Bondi Icebergs Pool meets the sea. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Lucky Bay, Esperance, WA

Move over, Whitehaven. Australia’s whitest beach is Esperance’s Lucky Bay and better still, it’s home to resident kangaroos, making it the most loveable beach scene in the country.

an aerial view of Lucky Bay, Esperance, WA
Lucky Bay is one of Australia’s purest and whitest beaches. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

The water itself is sparkling turquoise, throwing another level of spectacular into your selfie, but it’s all about the local roos at this stunning stretch of sand so time your visit to dusk or dawn. Although they can be spotted during the rest of the day, they’re mostly active at night so you’ll spy more if you’re strategic.

the stunning white sand beach at Lucky Bay, Esperance, WA
Off the coast of Esperance lies the stunning Lucky Bay. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

6. Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park, Coober Pedy, SA

Dishing out daily desert sunrises and sunsets to stir up your senses, the Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park in Coober Pedy is picture-perfect from wherever you’re standing.

an aerial photo of a man walking along the rugged landscapes at Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park
The rugged landscapes at Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park are picturesque. (Image: Skye Reynolds)

Sprawling out over almost 15,000 hectares and flushed with canyons, mountains, domes and other extraordinary geological marvels, the wonder must be seen to be believed. To add further fascination, more than 60 unique flora species dot the park and our most iconic wildlife roam free.

the scenic desert landscape at Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park, Coober Pedy, SA
Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park boasts majestic arid scenery. (Image: Elise Cook)

7. Hosier Lane, Melbourne, Victoria

Showcasing street art at its mightiest, Hosier Lane in Melbourne’s CBD is a well-trodden pit-stop that should be thanked for its part in cementing Melbourne as Australia’s culture capital.

No matter where you point your lens, brilliant bursts of graffitied colour from local and international artists provide illuminating photos on every feed. Just brace yourself for should-to-shoulder crowds if you’re visiting on a weekend or during lunch hour.

vibrant graffitied colours at Hosier Lane, Melbourne, Victoria
You’ll see vibrant graffiti on Hosier Lane everywhere you look. (Image: Visit Victoria)

8. Crawley Edge Boatshed, Perth, WA

A haunting sight that could easily pass as art if framed on a wall, Crawley Edge Boatshed in Perth is a huge hit amongst Instagrammers.

the famous Crawley Edge Boatshed in Perth, WA
Take a scenic stroll along the timber boardwalk leading to the boatshed. (Image: Simon Burrows)

Better known as the Blue Boathouse, it’s a 1930s restored shack that juts out at the end of a jetty over the Swan River. Stand at the foot of the jetty on dry land to snap the ultimate shot, encompassing the river’s still waters and this eerie, beautiful old structure.

a family relaxing in front of The Crawley Edge Boatshed in Perth, WA
Capture Instagrammable photos in front of the blue boatshed. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

9. Brighton Beach Boxes, Vic

A sunny queue of 82 adorable pop colour bathing boxes adorns the sandy shores of Dendy Street Beach in Brighton, with one of the itty-bitty structures even sporting the colours of our nation’s flag.

a couple walking along the colourful huts at Brighton Beach, Vic
Stop by colourful huts along Brighton Beach. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Melbourne’s Brighton Beach Boxes, which were built more than 100 years ago, attract visitors all year round for their traditional timber frames, multi-coloured weatherboard facades and corrugated iron roofs. Your only difficulty will be picking your favourites to snap and post.

an aerial shot of colourful, Victorian bathing boxes at Brighton Beach, Vic
Brighton Beach is lined with colourful, Victorian bathing boxes. (Image: Visit Victoria)

10. Dove Lake, Cradle Mountain, Tasmania

Offering uninterrupted views of Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain, Dove Lake is a magical body of water surrounded by unspoilt wilderness.

views of Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake in Tasmania
Take in the craggy sights of the Cradle Mountain. (Image: Off the Path)

Spectacular walking tracks are on hand to help you explore the glacially carved lake and its surroundings in full but there’s utterly enchanting scenery everywhere, particularly at the old boat shed which serves as an other-worldly prop for Instagram fodder.

view of Dove Lake and Cradle Mountain from Mt Campbell
Fog envelops Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake. (Image: Emilie Ristevski)

You can drive to Dove Lake but parking is limited so most people travel via the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre ’s regular shuttle buses.

the Dove Lake and Cradle Mountain under the night sky in Tasmania
Dove Lake shimmers majestically under the night sky. (Image: Emilie Ristevski)

11. Lake Hillier, Middle Island, WA

You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped onto another planet when you first spy Lake Hiller on Middle Island, off the southern coast of WA, but the great news? The sensational fairy floss-hued lake is swimmable.

an aerial view of Lake Hillier, Middle Island, WA, instagrammable place in Australia
Lake Hillier is an incredibly pink lake set next to clear turquoise waters on Middle Island. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

You won’t find many wading because the salt concentration is ridiculously high but if you do get out to the remote Instagram hot spot, feel free to dip your toes in to secure a selfie of your dreams.

an aerial view of Lake Hillier, Middle Island, WA, instagrammable place in Australia
Set foot on the fairy-floss-hued Lake Hillier. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

12. Uluru, Red Centre, Northern Territory

Australia’s spiritual heartland is breathtaking and no photograph will ever do Uluru justice. However, Instagram likes to have a crack. The 3.6-kilometre-long natural structure looks terrific on social media, serving as one of the country’s most recognisable bucket list sightings.

sunset at Uluru, Red Centre, Northern Territory, instagrammable place in Australia
Uluru is a deeply spiritual and breathtaking place. (Image: Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia and Anson Smart Photography)

The bonus in being there? Uluru is tremendously moving. Travel up from the airport or Alice Springs and spend as much time as possible exploring the dusty rock and the neighbouring rock formations at Kata Tjuta.

Uluru at sunrise, instagrammable place in Australia
Uluru is most stunning at sunrise or sunset. (Image: Emily Murphy)

13. Bommie Deck, Hamilton Island, Queensland

For the ultimate holiday cocktail-in-hand bragging rights, head straight to Bommie Deck at sunset for an incredible shot against Hamilton Island’s glistening waters.

One of Hamilton Island’s best things to do, soaking up the luxe life at this spectacular outdoor bar located right near the marina provides instant high society vibes. Part of Hamilton Island Yacht Club, Bommie Deck is the envy-inducing island backdrop you’ve always wanted. Get there before the sun starts to sink to secure a table.

the Bommie Deck & Restaurant perched on Hamilton Island, Queensland, instagrammable place in Australia
Bommie Deck is perched on the glistening waters of Hamilton Island. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

14. The Maheno shipwreck, K’gari, Qld

A captivating piece of history crumpling up on one of the country’s most pristine beaches, the Maheno shipwreck on K’gari is extraordinary. Decaying on the shore since the luxury vessel’s fateful demise during a cyclone in 1935, the Maheno’s vast shape and form can still be spied in sensational detail, creating a dramatic coastal scene that’s begging to join your Insta grid.

the Maheno shipwreck, K’gari, Qld, instagrammable place in Australia
Be in awe at the Maheno shipwreck on K’gari.

15. Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Vic

While we’re talking at-sea drama, don’t miss a chance to wind your way around Victoria’s Great Ocean Road for a glimpse of the Twelve Apostles.

a sunset view of Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Vic, instagrammable place in Australia
Carved from the sea are impressive limestone stacks known as Twelve Apostles. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Located a four-and-a-half-hour drive from Melbourne, the famous rock formations are said to be around 20 million years old but all seven of the remaining limestone stacks remain as bewitching as ever. For the grandest of vantage points, get to the viewing platform right before Castle Rock at the southern end of the masterpiece.

the Twelve Apostles at sunset, Great Ocean Road, Vic, instagrammable place in Australia
The sun casts a glowing shade upon the Twelve Apostles’ rock formations at dusk. (Image: Visit Victoria)

16. Burleigh Hill, Gold Coast, Qld

Capturing everything the Gold Coast is famous for, Burleigh Hill at Burleigh Heads provides a sweeping view of the coastline including Surfers Paradise’s signature skyscrapers, dramatic headlands and awesome surf action.

a family enjoying a picnic at Burleigh Hill, Gold Coast, Qld, instagrammable place in Australia
Enjoy a picnic on the grass with stunning coastal views at Burleigh Hill. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Take the coastal walk through Burleigh Head National Park from Tallebudgera Creek, one of the Gold Coast’s most beautiful swimming spots, and arrive like a local before finding a spot on the grass to soak up the good life.

two people sitting on Burleigh Hill watching the surfers, instagrammable place in Australia
Spend your laid-back afternoons watching the waves roll in and out at Burleigh Beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

17. Lake MacDonnell, Eyre Peninsula, SA

Visit on a clear day to spy one of the most incredible pools of water in the country. Lake MacDonnell in South Australia is yet another gob-smacking bubble gum-hued lake located 45 minutes from Ceduna Airport via car.

driving along pink salt Lake MacDonnell in South Australia
Lake MacDonnell turns into a pretty shade of pink. (Image: Jaxon Foale)

A magical result of high salt concentration and salt-hungry algae, the Instagram hot spot fluctuates its state of pink but no matter when you visit, you’re sure to spy something entirely out of the ordinary.

an aerial view of a car driving along Lake MacDonnell in South Australia
Embark on a dreamy road trip along Lake MacDonnell. (Image: David Jaske)

18. Wallaman Falls, Tropical North Queensland

We strongly urge you to chase waterfalls at Queensland’s Girringun National Park where you’ll find Wallaman Falls , Australia’s tallest single-drop cascade. Towering high at 268 metres, the majestic sight is about 170 kilometres north-west of Townsville and cars can access the waterfall through park roads. For a great vantage point, drive to the Wallaman Falls lookout after turning left on Blackbraes Road.

a rainbow spotted at Wallaman Falls, Tropical North Queensland, instagrammable place in Australia
Wallaman Falls is perfect for rainbow spotting. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Kyle Hunter)
Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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Your guide to a summer staycation in Sydney

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney
Sleep inside a 151-year-old icon.

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney . The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom
Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar
Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea .

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of  Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining
Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks
Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby
Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney
Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden
Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

a show at Theatre Royal
Take in a show at Theatre Royal. (Image: Daniel Boud)

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.