Australia’s Top 10 Hidden Gems Revealed

If you’re on the hunt for experiences that aren’t overrun with people, look no further.

It’s no secret that Australian travellers are increasingly on the lookout for lesser-known destinations and experiences, but in a world where we are constantly connected online, this is no easy feat.

A new study conducted by tour operator Bókun (part of the Tripadvisor family) has uncovered the real hidden gem locations across Australia, as recommended by tourists. Here, we delve into the top 10.

1. Stokes Bay, SA

This gorgeous, secluded beach on Kangaroo Island is the very definition of a hidden gem. On arrival, you might be wondering if you’re in the right place but follow the signs beyond the massive boulders and through some secret caves, and you’ll emerge on the veiled beach.

a man squeezing himself in a narrow rock passage at Stokes Bay — Find a secret passage through boulders. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Explore Stokes Bay’s rockpools and enjoy the tranquil conditions that are perfect for little ones in tow.

the white-sand shoreline and crystal clear waters of Stokes Bay — Cool off at Stokes Bay. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

2. Panorama Wildlife Sanctuary and Secret Gardens, Vic

Sitting pretty on the Mornington Peninsula, the Panorama Wildlife Sanctuary and Secret Gardens covers over 22 hectares with breathtaking views over Bass Strait and Port Phillip Bay.

the Panorama Wildlife Sanctuary and Secret Gardens in Vic — Be surrounded by lush greenery at Panorama Wildlife Sanctuary and Secret Gardens.

The estate is a haven filled with over 20,000 plants including native and botanical collections, lakes, streams and waterfalls. It’s also home to many animals such as rare albino kangaroos, alpacas, miniature goats, peacocks, emus and geese.

Pond and animals at Panorama Wildlife Sanctuary and Secret Gardens. — Watch the animals thrive.

3. Wendy’s Secret Garden, NSW

Although it’s probably the worst-kept secret, Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden is one of the best things to do in Sydney. Hidden within the Lavender Bay Parklands it’s known for its iconic views over Sydney Harbour.

view of the Sydney Harbour from Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden — See Sydney Harbour from Wendy’s Secret Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Explore the sculptures, flora and fauna and soak up the ambience; it doesn’t get much better than an afternoon strolling Wendy’s Secret Garden.

the Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden in NSW — Wendy’s Secret Garden is rich in diverse flora and fauna. (Image: Destination NSW)

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

4. Himeji Garden, SA

A tranquil slice of paradise that celebrates the sister city relationship between Adelaide and Himeji in Japan, Himeji Garden was designed on Japanese garden principles, but with a twist that allows for South Australian climate-friendly plants.

Explore the senzui, a lake and mountain garden, and the kare senzui, a dry garden where rocks and sand evoke the presence of water.

the Himeji Garden in SA — Bask in peace and tranquillity at Himeji Garden. (Image: Tom Stuart)

5. The Drip Gorge, NSW

The Drip Gorge (also known as the Great Dripping wall or simply The Drip) is situated on Wiradjuri land and is a significant place for the Wiradjuri People.

trees and plants surrounding The Drip walking track, NSW — Moss and orchids grow abundantly along the Drip walking track. (Image: Natasha Webb)

Just a 40-minute drive from Mudgee followed by a 1.4-kilometre hike along The Drip walking track, The Drip Gorge is a true natural wonder. If you visit after there’s been some rain, there’ll be water trickling down the sandstone walls to add to its magic.

the rocky outcrops with moss and plants at The Drip walking track — After the rain, clear spring water drips from the sandstone walls. (Image: Natasha Webb)

6. Little Beach, WA

Small but mighty, you’ll find the aptly named Little Beach within Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve near Albany in Western Australia.

an aerial view of the Little Beach, WA — Turquoise hues lap the shore at Little Beach. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

You’ll never forget the moment you set your eyes on Little Beach for the first time. The enchanting combination of turquoise water, pearly white sand and huge granite boulders will simply take your breath away.

huge rocks on the white-sand shoreline of Little Beach, WA — Set foot on the powdery white sand of Little Beach. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Stay and swim on the beach, lace up your hiking boots and head off on one of the nearby trails, or simply relax and take it all in.

an aerial view of the surrounding cliff at Little Beach, WA — Get a slice of paradise at the Little Beach. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

7. The Rocks Discovery Museum, NSW

The Rocks is Australia’s most historic precinct, and its history has shaped it into the thriving, cultural hub it is today. Wander its cobblestoned streets and make sure you pop into a pub or two.

a look inside the The Rocks Discovery Museum, NSW — Learn about Australia’s most historic precinct at The Rocks Discovery Museum. (Image: Anna Kucera)

Located in the Circular Quay area (Warrane), The Rocks Discovery Museum tells the story of The Rocks through four permanent exhibitions that have been developed in close consultation with the Metropolitan Aboriginal Land Council. These exhibitions share the history and stories of the area and the impact of European settlement.

an exhibit inside The Rocks Discovery Museum, NSW — The Rocks Discovery Museum tells the story of The Rocks through four permanent exhibitions. (Image: Anna Kucera)

Weekly travel news, experiences
insider tips, offers, and more.

8. Japanese Garden ‘Ju Raku En’, Qld

In the southern Queensland city of Toowoomba, you’ll find Ju Raku En Japanese Garden, one of the largest, most traditionally designed Japanese stroll gardens in Australia. The three-hectare Japanese Garden is located on the University of Southern Queensland’s grounds.

the Japanese Garden ‘Ju Raku En’, Qld — Find the vibrant Ju Raku En Japanese Garden in Toowoomba. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Ju Raku En means ‘to enjoy peace and longevity in a public place’, which is exactly what you get when you visit this tranquil garden. Marvel at the 230 species of Japanese and Australian native trees and plants, serene stream and waterfall, and all the wonderful birds; from swans to geese.

lush greenery and colourful blooms at the Japanese Garden ‘Ju Raku En’, Qld — Marvel at the lush and serene Japanese Garden. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

9. Atherton Tablelands, Qld

The Atherton Tablelands is Tropical North Queensland’s slightly cooler-climate cousin. Just south of Cairns, this gorgeous area is known for its incredible foodie scene, striking landscapes and magical waterfalls. The whole area is threaded with creeks and rivers that run into stunning waterfalls.

The Millaa Millaa Falls in the Atherton Tablelands, Queensland — The magnificent Millaa Millaa Falls is an unmissable highlight. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Three of the most beautiful waterfalls in the area that make up The Waterfall Circuit are Millaa Millaa Falls, Zillie Falls and Ellinjaa Falls. The trio are all within 10 minutes of each other and are not to be missed.

the Zillie Falls in Atherton Tablelands — Zillie Falls is one of the three cascades that make up The Waterfall Circuit. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

10. State Library Victoria

The oldest public library in Australia and one of the first free public libraries in the world, the State Library Victoria is a historical icon in the heart of Melbourne. If you’re an avid reader, history buff or love to admire heritage buildings, a visit here is a must.

the exterior of the State Library Victoria — The State Library Victoria is a must for history buffs.

One of the library’s biggest drawcards is that it houses Ned Kelly’s famous armour. There are also plenty of exhibitions to explore if you have the time.

a look inside the State Library Victoria — Explore the oldest public library in Australia.

The well-preserved Gold Rush town where an idyllic country vibe meets the best of city living.

Cafe culture

‘Slow down’ is the mantra of Tortoise Espresso, and it’s apt for anyone visiting town. This local coffee hangout was the brainchild of Lloyd Meadows, who at 16 started it as a hole in the wall of an old pub. Five years on, it graces a fine shopfront with a menu of around 60 different coffees. Other one-off centrally located daytime cafes, such as Saffs, Togs, Saint Florian and Lazy Bones, are tucked into historic buildings and serve creative menus featuring local produce. A personal favourite is Origini, where chef Luca Sartori brings a taste of northern Italy to his rustic restaurant. For the best banh mi outside Vietnam head to Super Hero, and the pastries at Johnny Baker are legendary.

the Saint Florian Cafe, Castlemaine — Saint Florian is one of many businesses tucked away in a historic building. (Image: Griffin Simm)

On the town’s fringe you’ll find some treasured cafes: Blackbird. Grist, Doveton Corner Store, and the cosy Aitken’s Corner. The Mill precinct also brings another dimension to Castlemaine. Located directly opposite the beautiful Botanical Gardens, this once-derelict woollen mill is a hive of creativity and collaboration. Retaining an industrial feel, it is home to a myriad of 44 unique businesses, galleries and studios that stretch over the three-hectare site.

Brilliant brews, bars and food

diners at The Mill, Castlemaine — The Mill is home to many local businesses. (Image: Visit Victoria/Michelle Jarni)

The Mill is also home to one of Castlemaine’s bespoke breweries, Shedshaker Brewing Company and Taproom. Within the sensitively restored walls of the oldest part of the building (circa 1875), small-batch, handcrafted beer features alongside fine wholesome food and live music.

A more recent newcomer to the brewing scene is Love Shack. Starting small as a laneway pop-up in 2021, visionaries Conna Mallett and Harry Cox were armed with a Melbourne beer culture pedigree, which helped them create a great new ‘pub’ that feels as though it’s been there since the 1850s. Other atmospheric bars and restaurants are dotted around town – Grafting Cellars for local wines by the pour; buzzy Mostyn Street Cellars; Table Records plays vinyl on weekends; and the quirky Maurocco bar is not to be missed.

food and drinks at Love Shack Public Bar & Bistro, Castlemaine — The nostalgic Love Shack Public Bar & Bistro serves comfort food. (Image: Visit Victoria)

For food you’ll write home about, the hatted Bar Midland serves exquisite dishes from Victorian-only produce. The freshly renovated Wild is located in the original firestation, Voor Ouker specialises in Indonesian/Dutch fusion, and the Railway Hotel oozes English pub charm.

the Theatre Royal, Castlemaine — Theatre Royal is the longest continually operating theatre on the mainland. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Much-loved Teatro Regio, found in the magnificent Theatre Royal, is the go-to for pizzas with a twist. As mainland Australia’s longest continually running theatre, this grand dame is also one of more than a dozen performance spaces that add to a rich and diverse entertainment and festival scene.

pizza at Theatre Royal — Dine before a show at Theatre Royal. (Image: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria)

Quirky country stays

Quirky, authentic and perfectly located, the Midland Hotel is a private hotel that dates back to 1879. Each of the nine rooms at the Northern Arts Hotel is different and named in honour of an Australian artist. Castlemaine Boutique Accommodation also has a range of properties to suit all types of travellers.

Revealed: Australia’s top 10 hidden gems

If you’re on the hunt for experiences that aren’t overrun with people, look no further.

1. Stokes Bay, SA

2. Panorama Wildlife Sanctuary and Secret Gardens, Vic

3. Wendy’s Secret Garden, NSW

4. Himeji Garden, SA

5. The Drip Gorge, NSW

6. Little Beach, WA

7. The Rocks Discovery Museum, NSW

8. Japanese Garden ‘Ju Raku En’, Qld

9. Atherton Tablelands, Qld

10. State Library Victoria

Flights from $55: Qantas and Virgin launch major sales

What’s on around Australia in November 2026

Sit, stay, swim: Australia’s best dog-friendly beaches revealed

Hot chips and matcha join a viral toastie on Virgin’s new menu

The Gold Rush town that’s become Victoria’s best country escape for foodies

The well-preserved Gold Rush town where an idyllic country vibe meets the best of city living.

Cafe culture

Brilliant brews, bars and food

Quirky country stays

If you’re on the hunt for experiences that aren’t overrun with people, look no further.

1. Stokes Bay, SA

2. Panorama Wildlife Sanctuary and Secret Gardens, Vic

3. Wendy’s Secret Garden, NSW

AI Prompt

4. Himeji Garden, SA

5. The Drip Gorge, NSW

6. Little Beach, WA

7. The Rocks Discovery Museum, NSW

8. Japanese Garden ‘Ju Raku En’, Qld

9. Atherton Tablelands, Qld

10. State Library Victoria

Flights from $55: Qantas and Virgin launch major sales

What’s on around Australia in November 2026

Sit, stay, swim: Australia’s best dog-friendly beaches revealed

Hot chips and matcha join a viral toastie on Virgin’s new menu

The well-preserved Gold Rush town where an idyllic country vibe meets the best of city living.

Cafe culture

Brilliant brews, bars and food

Quirky country stays

The well-preserved Gold Rush town where an idyllic country vibe meets the best of city living.