Things to do in Australia’s outdoors
When it comes to crafting holiday itineraries for travellers who’d prefer to be out and about in the sun, there’s no better place to plan for than the Australian outdoors. It’s utterly blessed with gorgeous, pristine natural landscapes, from idyllic atolls to the great outback teeming with wildlife.
Should you be looking to ditch the urban hustle for a bit, here are a couple of outdoor things to do in Australia for the adventurous at heart. Some of these spots are also great to swing by year-round, making visits during any one of Australia’s 4 seasons equally fruitful and engaging.
Table of Contents
1. Lord Howe Island
Quiet island getaway off the shore of Sydney
Australia has no shortage of rustic offshore retreats for a quick getaway from the mainland. If you’ve already got your quokka selfies at the popular Rottnest Island, then consider a tranquil stay at Lord Howe Island.
Image credit: @visitlordhoweisland via Instagram
It’s located about 700km northeast of Sydney, and the only means of setting foot here is a 2-hour flight (from AU$1,066, ~S$959.32) from Sydney Airport. The island only has a few hundred inhabitants. And coupled with the fact that visitors are capped at 400 at any given time, you’re not going to be dealing with crowds when you’re on this undisturbed haven.
Image adapted from: @visitlordhoweisland via Instagram
If you do intend to jet over, then you can look forward to plopping your rump on the pearly white sands of Ned’s Beach. Afterwards, snorkel amongst the vivid coral reefs and schools of tropical fish, or head further in-land to explore the lush forests. The Valley of the Shadows bushwalk is perfect for afternoon strolls, as you duck into the shade provided by 20m tall Banyan Trees.
You can even tee it up at the Lord Howe Island Golf Club.
Image credit: @visitlordhoweisland via Instagram
It’s almost always springtime on Lord Howe Island, as the daily temperatures average around 18°C-25°C in the summer months, to 13°C-18°C in winter. If you’re visiting with aquatic activities in mind, the best time to visit the island is from January to April, when the waters are the most pleasant.
Taking a few days to delve deep into the island’s offerings is an option too, as there’s accommodation like the Leanda Lei apartments to recharge at in between birdwatching and waving hi to sea turtles.
Lord Howe Island on Google Maps
2. Cactus Country
Biggest collection of cacti in Australia
Plant lovers, you’d think you have to travel far into the arid outback to catch a glimpse of the many cacti that inhabit the deserts. Instead, a trip to Cactus Country (from AU$22.50/pax, ~S$20.27) will more than suffice, as it’s the biggest collection of cacti in Australia.
Image credit: @cactuscountry via Instagram
Situated about a 3-hour drive from Melbourne, Cactus Country’s 12-acre farm is packed with rows of thorned beauties that stretch as far as the eye can see. They’ve even sectioned their greens into 8 different themed trails that recreate landscapes from distant lands. Visitors will get to gawk at cacti from the highlands of the Andes mountains, to the deserts of Mexico.
Image credit: @kottylogic via Instagram
Visit during the cacti’s flowering season which is typically during the months of October through November, and you’ll be greeted with vibrant blooms which are easy on the eyes. Cactus Country also has seasonal festivities, such as their Day of the Dead celebrations happening in November, so be sure to time your visits well if you’d like to catch them too.
Image credit: Cactus Country via Facebook
Unlike the hardy cacti, you’ll probably be parched after standing in the sun for a while, so head to Cactus Country’s Mexican Bar & Restaurant for some refreshments. Their menu is aptly loaded with cacti-infused options, like their Cactus Ice Cream (AU$5/scoop, ~S$4.50) and Cactus Cake (AU$10, ~S$9.01), both made from Prickly Pears harvested in their backyard.
Book a Cactus Country Garden Ticket.
Address: 4986 Murray Valley Highway, Strathmerton 3641, Victoria, Australia
Opening hours: Wed-Sun 10am-5pm (Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays)
Contact: +61 427 745 271 | Cactus Country website
3. KUR-Cow Barnwell Farm
Cosy farmstay with horseback riding & ATV racing
If a taste of that laidback countryside lifestyle is what you seek, take a break from your 9-5 at KUR-Cow Barnwell Farm. Pull in the whole fam to experience an honest day’s work as farm hands on the outskirts of Cairns.
Image credit: @kurcowbarnwellfarm via Instagram
The lil’uns will have a blast hand-feeding the animals on the farm (AU$10/child, ~S$9.01); they’ll get up close and personal with furry and feathered friends like ducks, ponies, sheep, and even alpacas. They’ll also learn how to milk cows, and collect eggs from the farm’s chickens.
Image credit: @kurcowbarnwellfarm via Instagram
You’ll get to play cowboys when you go horseback riding (from AU$95, ~S$85.61/30 minutes). Don’t worry if you’ve never saddled up before; this activity is beginner-friendly, so even children can feel the wind in their hair as they gallop through verdant pastures. But if you’re more comfortable on 4 wheels, they’ve got Quad Biking Tours (AU$95/30 minutes, ~S$85.61) where you’ll get to race each other piloting ATVs.
Image credit: @kurcowbarnwellfarm & @brittcromie via Instagram
When it’s time to call it a day, gather ‘round the barbie and feast on their Wagyu Mix Charcoal BBQ platters (AU$99, ~S$89.22). Sunsets on the ranch are especially picturesque, so be sure to snap some pics for the ‘Gram during your stay.
Book a KUR-Cow Barnwell Farm Experience in Cairns.
Address: 112 Barnwell Road, Kuranda 4881, Queensland, Australia
Contact: +61 7 4230 0580 | KUR-Cow Barnwell Farm website
4. Kings Canyon
Iconic 6km hiking trail with scarlet cliffs
Venture beyond the crowd-magnet of Uluru to visit its equally stunning neighbour, the soaring red cliffs of Kings Canyon. Set in the vast wilderness of Australia’s Northern Territory, the canyon has attracted many strong-limbed hikers to conquer its iconic Rim Walk circuit.
Image credit: @watarrkanationalpark via Instagram
The canyon has several different trails to choose from for different fitness and comfort levels, ranging from several hours to multi-day hikes, but the 9km-long Rim Walk is the most popular, promising unmatched aerial views of the surroundings. The most challenging part of the climb is the initial 500-step ascent. But once that’s done and dusted, it’s all smooth sailing from there on out.
Image credit: @watarrkanationalpark via Instagram
At the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the landscape, swathed in shades of scarlet, and dotted with the occasional green of the desert shrubbery. Completing the circuit will bring you to a maximum altitude of 861m and it’ll take roughly 3.5 hours to hike. Feel free to peer down from above, but it goes without saying to watch your footing while you’re up here.
Image credit: @watarrkanationalpark via Instagram
Do make a stop at the Garden of Eden watering hole on your way down from the Rim Walk circuit to catch your breath. Beginners can opt for the shorter 2km Kings Creek Walk through the canyon’s valley, or the 4.8km South Wall Return Walk instead.
P.S. If you still want to take in the spectacular views from above while sparing your quads, Klook has got you covered with their scenic helicopter flights around Kings Canyon (AU$125, ~S$112.39).
Address: Watarrka National Park, Petermann 0872, Northern Territory, Australia
5. K’Gari (formerly known as Fraser Island)
Dip into natural jacuzzis & float down a creek
For another oceanic alternative, K’Gari is a must-visit during your time in Australia. Formerly known as Fraser Island, it’s accessible by ferry from Hervey Bay on the coast of Queensland, and after a 45-minute boat ride (from AU$80, S$72.08) you’ll find yourself on the world’s largest sand island.
Image credit: @karo.wanner via Instagram
Beach lovers will want to make a beeline to Seventy-Five Mile Beach to soak in the rays and dip into the Champagne Pools. These are 2 calm rock pools by the beach that shield swimmers from the strong sea currents, so you can enjoy splashing in the water without being ragdolled by the crashing waves.
Image credit: @mediahilux via Instagram
Other popular things to do include inspecting the shipwreck of SS Mareno, and going for a 4-wheel drive joyride on the beach. Yes, the beach is expansive enough for you to do doughnuts in the sand; it is 75 miles long, or roughly 120km, after all.
Image credit: @visitfrasercoast & @australia via Instagram
Also, set your picnic mats along Eli Creek’s banks and for a respite from the heat, grab a float and drift lazily down its freshwater currents. For more bodies of water to wallow in, Lake MacKenzie’s one that’s far too pretty to drop. Walk across its soft sands; it serves as a filter, giving the water here an unmarred clarity.
Image credit: Klook
If you can’t bear to bid farewell to K’Gari just yet, retire for the day by checking into on-site accommodation like K’Gari Beach Resort to do it all over again tomorrow.
6. Grampians National Park
Hiking routes of all difficulties & a gorgeous waterfall
Hollow Mountain in Grampians National Park.
Image credit: @thegrampians via Instagram
It’s probably heresy to give Australia’s many national parks a miss, so plan a trip to the storied Grampians National Park. Massive is an understatement when it comes to describing the Grampians; it spans a staggering 1,672km². For reference, Singapore is just 734.3km² big. The park is renowned for its natural beauty, so a hike’s the best way to experience its wonders.
The view during the Grand Canyon Circuit Walk.
Image credit: @thegrampians via Instagram
Here you’ll find trails of varying difficulty, so even hiking novices are privy to stunning views on the shorter treks, such as the 900m Grand Canyon Walk. Meanwhile, veterans can feel accomplished after finishing the 12km Mount Rosea Loop Walk which takes on average 5 hours to complete.
Image credit: Visit Grampians
If you’d prefer the path well-travelled, set off on the tried-and-tested Pinnacle Walk. There are 3 ways to tackle this walk, from an easy 2.1km route to a gruelling 9.6km trail. They’ll all lead you to the Pinnacle Lookout, which sits at 720m above sea level and unlocks scenic mountaintop vistas for all to gaze at.
Image credit: @adventure__hikes via Instagram
Don’t forget to make a pit stop at the famous MacKenzie Falls. It’s one of the biggest waterfalls in Victoria, and the only one in the Grampians that flows all year round, even during the hottest months. The roaring boom of the falls should be a good sign that this spot is not for swimming; best to take your picture-perfect shots without getting submerged.
Book a Grampians National Park Day Tour.
Address: 277 Grampians Road, Halls Gap 3381, Victoria, Australia
7. Pinnacles Desert
Stargazing & sledding down sand dunes
Keep an eye out for roos and emus roaming the desert.
Image credit: @helloperth via Instagram
For a glimpse of the Australian desert, chart a course for Nambung National Park. It plays host to the ethereal Pinnacles Desert, which contains thousands of limestone spires rising up from the shifting yellow sands. These natural formations, some measuring up to 5m tall, were created over millions of years of erosion.
Image credit: @outofoffice._ via Instagram
The pretty backdrops don’t end there; once you’re done with the Pinnacles Desert’s Martian-like surroundings, follow the coast southwards to reach the Lancelin Sand Dunes. After an hour’s drive, you’ll be able to sled down huge 45° angle dunes on sandboards (from AU$10, ~S$9). They’re also a sight to behold, particularly when the sun dips below the dunes’ towering peaks.
Image credit: @westernaustralia via Instagram
Since you’re already here, do stay on after dark to do some stargazing. You can book a tour that will provide all the equipment you need, like telescopes and astro binoculars. The level of light pollution here is very low out here, so if the stars align, you’ll get to see faraway galaxies like the Milky Way, as well as planets like Jupiter and Saturn.
Book a Pinnacles Sunset Stargazing Tour.
Address: Nambung 6521, Western Australia, Australia
8. Perisher Valley
Australia’s biggest ski resort
Australia’s not just a destination for the summer, as the country has a solid ski resort in Perisher Valley. It’s over at the Snowy Mountains in New South Wales, and despite its ominous name, it houses Australia’s biggest ski resort, Perisher Ski Resort.
Image credit: @alexportaaa via Instagram
Of course, the main draw of the alpines are skiing and snowboarding. You’ll be able to get your equipment from the various snow gear rental spots near the resort from around AU$100 (~S$90.10)/day. After you’ve geared up, there are a ton of trails and mountain peaks to cater to skiers of every level, so no adrenaline junkie will be left unsatisfied.
Image credit: @_aria.99 via Instagram
Those who like it steep can hop on a ski lift to get transported to the 2,054m-tall summit of Mount Perisher to let loose. Should you be a fledgling skier, the Perisher Ski Resort also conducts kid and adult group skiing lessons (from $AU87, ~S$78.39) to get you familiar with the sport.
Book a Perisher Valley Snow Trip.
Perisher Valley on Google Maps
9. Kangaroo Island
Get up close and personal with animals like seals, dolphins, kangaroos & koalas
You can’t really say you’ve been to Australia if you’ve not waved hello to its adorable marsupials, and there’s no better place to observe them in their natural habitat than Kangaroo Island. Funny enough, their official website references our Little Red Dot, as the 4,416km²-wide island is about 6 times the size of Singapore.
Image credit: Tourism Australia
Famously known as a “zoo without fences”, Kangaroo Island offers many opportunities that place you within close proximity to its furry and feathered inhabitants. No prizes for guessing which iconic Australian marsupial resides here; you’ll bump into the occasional kangaroo, as well as its cuddly relatives like the koala and wallaby at the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park.
Image credit: Kangaroo Island
Your brush with wildlife doesn’t end on the land. Down by the beaches of Kangaroo Island, you’ll find Seal Bay, where the country’s largest colony of sea lions call home. Beneath the waves, pods of bottlenose dolphins await your arrival. Opt in for an Ocean Safari and Snorkelling Experience, and you can swim alongside these sociable creatures à la The Little Mermaid.
Book a 2-Day Ultimate Kangaroo Island Tour.
Kangaroo Island on Google Maps
10. Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
Beautiful lakeside scenery with a Tasmanian devil sanctuary
If you just can’t get enough of Australian haunts away from the mainland, the state of Tasmania is a whole new world that’s filled with outdoorsy activities to immerse yourself in.
Image credit: Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Services
For starters, the Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park is just the spot to spend a couple of days exploring, as it’s privy to jaw-dropping scenes throughout all 4 seasons. In autumn, the slopes bloom in hues of yellow, red, and orange, while the coming of spring invites curious echidnas out to play. Snow-capped peaks are the highlights of winter, and summer’s perfect for a midday swim in Lake St. Clair.
Image credit: Devils @ Cradle
Do swing by Devils @ Cradle, which is a conservation sanctuary for Tasmanian devils. When you’re not squealing in delight at their cute critters, you’ll get to pet Tasmanian devils and even their joeys during their guided tours.
Image credit: @cradlemountainlodge via Instagram
Cap off your visit with a stroll by Dove Lake. This 6km trek will take you about 2-3 hours to complete. It’s a glacially carved lake directly beneath Cradle Mountain, and its surroundings are especially enchanting as special vegetation only found on Tassie springs to life, like buttongrass and myrtle.
Book a Cradle Mountain National Park Day Tour.
Cradle Mountain on Google Maps
Fill your itineraries with these outdoor activities in Australia
If you find the allure of Australia’s natural marvels too irresistible, be sure to bookmark these locations for your next adventure to the land Down Under. But, you might find that these spots are quite literally off the beaten path, and you might need some help with making travel arrangements to make getting there as comfortably as possible.
Thankfully, Klook has made traversing Australia that much more convenient with their various tours. Their tours are pretty comprehensive, so all you’ve got to do is book one and consider your accommodations, transport, tickets, and sometimes even meals accounted for.
Image credit: @visitnoonsa via Instagram
For travellers who’d like a bit more agency for their trips, Klook also has car rentals that allows you to pick up and drop off your vehicle right at the airport. Accommodations-wise, they’ve basically got options all over Australia, even in far-flung islands like K’Gari and Lord Howe Island.
With Klook, you won’t have to worry about nitty gritty when you’re diving headlong into the best Australia’s great outdoors has to offer.
Explore more activities in Australia via Klook
This post is brought to you by Klook.
Cover image adapted from: @cactuscountry, @westernaustralia & @thegrampians via Instagram