Humble brag: the best summer holiday destinations are in Australia.

Adventure
by Afterpay
Aug 15, 2023      6 min read

Sure, overseas trips are great. But they come with jetlag, passports and sometimes having to get acquainted with another language. Who has the time? This summer, we’re taking an epic holiday without ever leaving the country.


As one of the world’s most loved tourist spots, there’s plenty to do in Australia. Gourmet food tours, cruises, sightseeing and cultural trips are just some of the drawcards. And Afterpay has a lineup of the best summer holiday destinations right here in Australia.


So, before you start searching for overseas deals, check out what the Land of Oz has to offer. No passport required.

Summer lovin’ in your own backyard: Australian trips worth taking.

It’s true. Nothing beats the beauty of Australia’s landscapes. And if you don’t believe us, ask the kajillions of visitors who flock here yearly.

What makes this country so unique (besides our good weather and laid-back attitude) is its diversity. Into rainforest hikes and spotting crocodiles? No dramas. How about a coastline cruise and gourmet lunch? We’ve got you. Or is exploring an urban playground and sampling fine foods more your style? Say less.

You don't have to travel far if you want an epic adventure. Forget about international travel fees and obtaining visas and instead support our local communities and economy. Hop aboard as we check out the best summer holiday destinations in Australia and start planning your next Aussie adventure today.

@australia Magic hour around Australia 🌟 🎥: @Jos Laloh 📍: #Australia #seeaustralia #comeandsaygday ♬ original sound - <3

Beach summer holiday destinations in Australia.

As home to some of the world’s best beaches, it makes sense to stay at home for a holiday that features sand, surf and salt water. Need a little ocean-spiration? These are our top picks.

  • As one of the world's seven natural wonders, a trip to the Great Barrier Reef is a must. Take a snorkelling tour and get up close and personal with Nemo.
  • Cable Beach in Broome is the perfect way to see WA. Camel rides, golden sands and sunset cruises are just a few of the things that await.
  • Soak up the natural beauty of Tassie. Book yourself a day cruise around the coastline (with gourmet lunch and drinks included, of course) and do it the right way.
  • Amp up the adrenaline with a skydiving adventure and land on the blissful beaches of the Whitsundays.

Bush bashing: summer holiday ideas in the outback.

Want to get down and dirty? Australia’s bushland and national parks are the perfect place to blow your annual leave. Check out these amazing destinations in your own backyard.

  • See the jaw-dropping beauty of the NT’s Kakadu National Park from a scenic flight or guided river cruise. As Australia’s largest national park, there’s a whole lot to explore.
  • New South Wales’ Blue Mountains offer some of the country’s most spectacular scenery, and it’s special in every season. Ancient rock formations, blooming wildflowers and luxury stays are all on show in summer.
  • Far North Queensland is home to the Daintree Forest, and it’s a must if you’re craving greenery and cheap summer holidays in Australia. Take a multi-day tour, spot crocs, swim in a waterfall and hike through one of the oldest surviving rainforests in the world.
  • Unleash your adventurous spirit in Karijini National Park, about 1,500 km north of Perth. The stunning destination features gorges, swimming holes and native wildlife, all wrapped up in a culturally and historically rich landscape.

Summer holiday destinations in Australia for city slickers.

Does your idea of a holiday involve five-star luxury, gourmet sensations, festivals and markets? You’ve got great taste. As well as being home to beaches, rainforests and other natural wonders, Australia has some of the world’s coolest cities (if we do say so ourselves).

  • Perth, WA. Head west and soak up the rays in the sunniest capital city in Oz. Take a ferry ride and live out your wildest fantasies, snapping a selfie with a quokka at Rottnest Island.
  • Adelaide, SA. Foodies rejoice. The famous Central Markets in Adelaide are considered gastronomic royalty. Or head to the Hills for wine tasting and explore the natural beauty of the Adelaide Botanic Garden.
  • Sydney, NSW. Sydney comes alive in summer, and you can be there to reap the rewards. Take in the beauty of Bondi Beach, treat your senses to the top tier culinary scene, or enjoy the sites with an outdoor harbourside painting class (so cultured!).
  • Hobart, TAS. Keen on culture and history? Tassie is chock full of it. After you’re done on land, take a boat ride to Bruny Island and enjoy the vibrant foods and arts scene.

An adventure in your own backyard.

Whether city-slicking or coastal cruising, there’s no need to leave this great southern land to create your dream travel itinerary. Australia is home to some of the world’s most incredible spots, so let Afterpay help you see them.


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