9 Under-the-Radar Summer Destinations in Australia

Make the most of the warmer months by dipping into these under-the-radar summer destinations minus the crowds.

Find a treasure trove of coastal towns to explore around Australia, from Yeppoon to Tasmania, across the country and back again.

1. Yeppoon, Qld

This Capricorn Coast uncut gem is now being polished yearly since intrepid holiday hunters have discovered the glimmer at the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef.

Yeppoon is the gateway to Great Keppel Island and 27 other outcrops, but also offers plenty of its own attractions, from the foreshore’s free zero-depth Keppel Kraken water park, lagoon pool and kids’ play areas to whale watching, fishing, four-wheel-driving and excursions beyond to snorkel and spot dolphins and turtles. While it skews towards families, that’s not the only feather in its cap. Couples and mates will enjoy the boho stylings at Yeppoon Surfside Motel .

a scenic view of Yeppoon on the cusp of Queensland’s Capricorn Coast — Yeppoon is on the cusp of Queensland’s Capricorn Coast. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/ Vince Vali Tutti)

Where is it? About eight hours north of Brisbane, or fly into Rockhampton Airport, which is 40 minutes from the coast.

What’s it all about? Tropical sun, family fun and island skipping.

Don’t miss: With loads of incredible produce in the surrounding region, you’ll eat well at the Yeppoon Community Market every Saturday.

Hot tip: Take a tour 40 minutes inland to slip into the underworld limestone labyrinth that is the Capricorn Caves.

2. Tropical North Queensland

Lush, wild, tropical, vibrant and tinged with a hint of Australia-specific cautions, Tropical North Queensland begins along the Cassowary Coast and winds upwards to Cape York, beaded with dazzling baubles of palm-fringed beach towns, emerald rainforests, dreamy castaway islands, and, of course, the kaleidoscopic beauty of the Great Barrier Reef.

a palm-fringed beach in Tropical North Queensland — Soak up the sun in the palm-fringed Tropical North Queensland.

From the well-seasoned, upmarket Port Douglas to the bustle of Cairns, the ancient Daintree and Cape Tribulation, out to the Atherton Tablelands and across to further-flung Torres Strait, this part of the country is ancient, extraordinary and utterly captivating.

an aerial view of Low Isles, Port Douglas — Experience the highs of Low Isles. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Where is it? Beginning in Mission Beach, about 20 hours north of Brisbane, and travelling all the way up to Cape York.

What’s it all about? The Great Barrier Reef, which follows the coast to the tip.

Don’t miss: The Daintree Rainforest – 135 million years in the making – deserves your undivided awe.

Hot tip: Low Isles, 15 kilometres off Port Douglas, is the perfect lagoon reef for novice snorkellers to get a fin in.

3. Tasmania

No, not your typical summer destination, but Tassie can raise the mercury in the warmer months, despite its low-lying geography. As an island, you’re never too far from the sea, should it get hot. If things stay mild, though, Tassie makes for a great place to give the heat the slip.

top view of waves crashing on the rocks in Tasmania — Get lost in the remote coastlines of Tasmania. (Image: Matty Eaton)

Tassie offers plenty for summertime dalliances, from hikes at Cradle Mountain or Flinders Island to cruises around Wineglass Bay , kayaking down the Franklin River and general pottering in historic Hobart. And you don’t have to drive far around the Apple Isle before you encounter something utterly adorable.

a wombat in the wild in Tasmania — See wombats in the wild in Tasmania. (Image: Josh Withers)

Where is it? Tasmania lies about 250 kilometres across the Bass Strait. You can fly to our most southerly state from every capital city.

What’s it all about? Storybook hamlets and remarkably pristine beauty.

Don’t miss: A dip in the clear, southerly waters – there’s just something enlivening about them.

Hot tip: Check into Hobart’s stunning MACq 01 Hotel to pull the thread of the city’s convict past in luxe surrounds. Or, make a beeline for the beachfront of Coles Bay to bed down in Still at Freycinet, a Nordic-inspired wellness stay.

4. Great Southern, WA

While the Margaret River region snatches the holiday headlines, the coastline and townships a little further south are equally magnetic. The Great Southern is slightly more untamed, more exposed and gobsmackingly dramatic.

the Native Dog Cabin in Bremer Bay, WA — Bunker down in Native Dog Cabin in Bremer Bay, WA. (Image: Kirsten Sivyer)

With enormous granite boulders scattered across the landscape, this is a playground for those who appreciate precarious positions, such as at The Gap and Natural Bridge at Albany and the Granite Skywalk at Porongurup National Park.

Oversized boulders loll in aquamarine waters at Elephant Rocks in Denmark. And you’ll find one of the country’s longest (and most wonderful) treetop walks in the Valley of the Giants near Walpole.

Find giant boulders in Greens Pool, William Bay National Park in Denmark, WA. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Where is it? This region at the beginning of the Great Australian Bight, south-west of Western Australia, borders the Margaret River Region.

What’s it all about? Big rocks, big trees and big vistas.

Don’t miss: The Kodja Place and Kojonup Visitor Centre to learn about the Noongar Indigenous Creation story.

Hot tip: Grab five friends and bed down in the architecturally and geographically spectacular Native Dog Cabin at Point Henry Peninsula.

5. Bellarine Peninsula, Vic

Poking into Port Phillip Bay on one side and overlooking the ocean on the other, this appendage off Geelong offers ample spots to take in the fresh sea air.

empty shores at Port Phillip Bay — The briny bivalves are found in the cool depths of Port Phillip Bay.

From Portarlington and Queenscliff to Drysdale and Barwon Heads, the area has long enticed sweltering Melburnians with incredible produce and reviving ocean-infused air.

a mussel dish recipe in Portarlington, knownas the Mussel Capital of Victoria — Visit Portarlington, known as the Mussel Capital of Victoria. (Image: Matty Eaton)

Where is it? Just 20 minutes outside of Geelong and a one-and-a-half-hour drive around Port Phillip from Melbourne (or skip across the water by ferry).

What’s it all about? Beaches, wineries and seaside villages.

Don’t miss: Book into the elegant Lon Spa for some Zen time.

Hot tip: Join a mussel farm tour with Portarlington Mussel Tours if you love briny bivalves.

6. Gippsland, Vic

This vast area stretches from the east Gippsland Lakes to central Gippsland and the southerly Wilsons Promontory, encompassing everything from coastal loveliness to maritime hamlets and alpine regions.

Explore the Croajingolong National Park-enclosed town of Mallacoota; the Snowy River town of Orbost; remote Dargo in the foothills of the Dargo High Plains; and beloved Phillip Island – all within this one diverse wedge of Australia.

a flock of pelicans at the township of Mallacoota in Victoria — Mooch around the township of Mallacoota in Victoria. (Image: Gavin Hansford/Destination Gippsland)

Where is it? Gippsland occupies Victoria’s eastern corner and is about two hours from the state’s capital.

What’s it all about? From beach to mountain, you’ll encounter history, heritage and the best country pubs.

Don’t miss: The Great Southern Rail Trail is for those who like to bike.

Hot tip: Take in the beauty of the Alpine High Country with a drive along the Great Alpine Road.

7. Darwin and the Top End, NT

Typically, Darwin and the Top End are flooded with visitors during winter, when its balmy climate lures shivering southerners. In summer though, it’s moodily monsoonal, wet and wonderfully compelling. So don’t let a little rain deter your wandering spirit, because downpours and humidity lend this tropical landscape an ethereal beauty.

street art in Darwin — Street art as social commentary in Darwin. (Image: Tourism NT)

The iridescence is dialled up on vegetation, cascades thunder into life and birds teem. Take a scenic flight over Kakadu National Park and Litchfield National Park to be awed by such spectacles. Sunsets and storms glimpsed from Darwinian haunts will also fill your visual compendium. As will plenty of bushwalks, art trails, wildlife encounters and luxe accommodation options.

an aerial view of the Twin Falls in NT’s Kakadu — Take a joy ride over Twin Falls in NT’s Kakadu.

Where is it? The Northern Territory capital sits at the pinnacle of the state gazing towards the Timor Sea. It’s an easy flight from most cities.

What’s it all about? The drama of the tropical wet season makes for a summer you’ll never forget.

Don’t miss: While some roads will be closed in national parks, Wangi and Florence Falls in Litchfield National Park are open year-round.

Hot tip: It might be wet season, but it’s not always raining. When it’s hot, head to Darwin’s waterfront precinct.

8. South Australia

Emus strutting on powdery white sands, shimmering shallows of impossible clarity, lounging sea lions and remote beauty. Residents of South Australia have long known their state boasts some of the country’s most arresting coastlines.

seals sleeping at Seal Bay Conservation Park, Kangaroo Island — Meet the locals at KI’s Seal Bay Conservation Park. (Image: Tourism Alliance)

But now the rest of the country is cluing in. With three peninsulas extending into the ocean – Fleurieu, Eyre and Yorke – there are kilometres upon kilometres of white-sand beaches to unravel.

an aerial view of Gull Bay in Fleurieu Peninsula, SA — Flock to Gull Bay in SA’s Fleurieu Peninsula. (Image: Mason Kirby & Sarah Parker)

Where is it? The Fleurieu Peninsula region is 90 minutes from Adelaide; Yorke is two and a half hours; and Eyre is more than six hours away by car.

What’s it all about? Peninsulas, peninsulas and more peninsulas!

Don’t miss: Get your pulse quickening on a shark cage dive.

Hot tip: Kangaroo Island is a must-visit destination at least once in a lifetime.

9. Macleay Valley Coast, NSW

While many residents of NSW may be familiar with South West Rocks, the region is largely lesser known compared to other north coast holiday spots. That’s exactly why the Macleay Valley Coast is so appealing. There’s a mellowness here that facilitates complete disengagement from everyday life.

surfing in Crescent Head, NSW — NSW’s Crescent Head is imbued with summer holiday vibes. (Image: Woody Gooch)

Grassy Head, Crescent Head, Hat Head, Trial Bay and Korogoro Creek are all bush-bound, pristine and dotted with campgrounds for off-grid escapes.

the interior of Crescent Head’s Sea Sea Hotel — Settle in Stylish Sea Sea, Crescent Head.

Where is it? Just four-and-a-half hours from Sydney, this is an easy summer break when time is short.

What’s it all about? Surf beaches and barefoot boho vibes.

Don’t miss: Climb to the top of Mt Yarrahapinni for views of the whole Macleay Valley and coast.

Hot tip: Crescent Head’s Sea Sea Hotel is a hip reboot of a tired seaside resort.

This remote corner of Australia is one of the world’s last frontiers. This is how to see it properly.

Vast, rugged and deeply spiritual, the Kimberley coast in Australia’s North West feels a world away from everyday Australia – and there are countless ways to explore it. But if you want to reach ancient rock art, hidden gorges and lonely waterfalls, it has to be by boat. Whether you’re aboard a nimble expedition vessel or a luxury yacht with all the trimmings, exploring by the water brings exclusive experiences, shows unique views and makes travel easier than any other mode. And that’s just the beginning of Australia’s North West cruises.

The True North Adventure Cruise in between sandstone cliffs. — Adventure starts where the road ends.

1. Discover Broome, and beyond

Explore your launchpad before you set sail: Broome. Here camels and their riders stride along the 22 kilometres of powdery Cable Beach at sunset. That’s just the start.

At Gantheaume Point, red pindan cliffs plunge into the turquoise sea, whose low tide uncovers fossilised dinosaur footprints. Broome’s pearling history runs deep. Japanese, Chinese, Malay and Aboriginal divers once worked these waters, and their legacy lives on in boutiques where South Sea pearls still shine.

If the moon’s right, you may catch the Staircase to the Moon over Roebuck Bay. Or simply kick back with a cold beverage and a film under the stars at Sun Pictures , screening since 1916.

Ride a camel along Cable Beach as the sun sinks into the Indian Ocean, casting golden light across the sand and sea. — Ride a camel along Cable Beach. (Image: Nick Dunn)

2. Unmatched access to The Kimberley

Once you’re onboard, expect a backstage pass to some of the most isolated places on Earth. No roads. No ports. No phone reception.

At Horizontal Falls/ Garaanngaddim, 10-metre tides surge through twin gorges like a natural waterpark ride that’ll make your palms sweat. Then there’s Montgomery Reef/ Yowjab: a giant living platform of coral and seagrass, where the sea pulls back to reveal waterfalls, sea turtles and ospreys.

Up north, King George Falls/ Oomari rage 80 metres down red cliffs. Zodiac boats often nudge in closer so you can feel the spray on your sun-warmed cheeks. You might even fly in to reach Mitchell Falls/ Punamii-unpuu, a four-tiered cascade where you can swim in freshwater pools above the drop.

Come spring, some itineraries veer west to Rowley Shoals: an atoll chain of white sand and reef walls. Then it’s up the winding Prince Regent River to King Cascade/ Maamboolbadda, tumbling over rock terraces, and into a Zodiac to view the Gwion Gwion rock art, whose slender, ochre-painted figures are older than the pyramids.

A cruise drifts beneath King George Falls, where sheer sandstone cliffs frame the thunderous plunge into turquoise waters. — Get closer to the Kimberley than ever before.

3. Taste the Kimberley with onboard hospitality

You might spend your days clambering over slippery rocks or charging past waterfalls. But when you’re back on the water, it’s a different story. Meals are chef-prepared and regionally inspired: grilled barramundi, pearl meat sashimi, mango tarts, and bush tomato chutney. One night it’s barefoot beach barbecues with your shipmates; the next, alfresco dining on the ship.

Small expedition ships each have their own personality, but many carry just 12 to 36 guests, making being out on the water a whole other experience. You might sink into a spa on the foredeck or sip coffee in a lounge while watching crocodiles cruise by. It’s choose-your-own-relaxation, Kimberley style.

4. Expert-led excursions through the Kimberley

These voyages are led by people who know the Kimberley like the back of their sunburnt hand. Attenborough-esque naturalists might gently tap your shoulder to point out rare birds or tell the story beneath a slab of rock. Historians can explain exactly how that rusted World War II relic came to rest here.

If your ship has a helipad, you might chopper straight to a waterfall-fed swimming hole. If not, you’ll still be hopping ashore for that wet landing at a secret creek.

Then come the evenings: songlines shared by Traditional Owners under the stars, or astronomy sessions that link what’s overhead with what’s underfoot and what’s within.

A small group glides through Kimberley’s rugged coastline by boat, passing ancient cliffs. — Explore with naturalists and historians by your side.

5. Relax in luxurious lodgings

Just because you’re off-grid doesn’t mean you have to rough it. These Kimberley vessels are small in size, but mighty in luxury. True North’s ships come with their own helicopters and a no-sea-days policy, so you’re always in the thick of it. Try the luxurious offerings from Ocean Dream Charters for exploration in style. Kimberley Quest offers a fast boat for easy, off-ship adventures. On the larger end of the scale, Coral Expeditions has open-deck bars and curated wine cellars. And then there’s Ponant’s luxury yachts – sleek and incredibly stylish French sailing yachts.

A helicopter soars above the sea, with a sleek cruise ship gliding in the distance. — See the Kimberley from sky to shore.

6. The adventure continues with pre- and post-cruise experiences

You’ve already come this far – so, why not go further? Broome makes it easy to ease in before you board, or wind down when your voyage ends, and there is no reason to stop there.

Head an hour and a half south to Eco Beach to stay off-grid and off the clock. Join a Yawuru guide for a mangrove walk or ocean forage. Dive even deeper into Broome’s pearling past at Willie Creek or Cygnet Bay, where divers and craftspeople still pull the seawater-slicked gems from the deep.

If you’re still craving adventure, it’s time to go further. Soar over the Buccaneer Archipelago, or detour inland with a 4WD trip along the Gibb River Road. Book a scenic flight over the Bungle Bungles. Or – because you never know when you’ll be back – do all three.

aerial of people walking on eco beach in the kimberley western australia — Stay off grid at Eco Beach. (Image: Tourism WA)

Find out more about your trip to Australia’s North West at australiasnorthwest.com .

9 under-the-radar summer destinations in Australia