Your Australia. Your Way.
Where sunlit coastlines meet untamed wilds — discover Australia through journeys that connect icons, nature, and soul.
Australia:
Where Every Horizon Tells a Story
Australia is an invitation to wander wide open spaces, soak in golden light, and discover a land where vibrant cities, coral seas, and ancient landscapes coexist in harmony. From Sydney’s iconic harbour to the red sands of the Outback, every corner of this vast country holds its own rhythm and story.
Whether it’s sailing beneath the Harbour Bridge, diving along the Great Barrier Reef, sipping wine among rolling vineyards, or standing in quiet awe before Uluru at sunrise, this is travel that moves with meaning. At Latitude & Leisure, we pair iconic moments with insider access and thoughtful pacing to make your journey unforgettable.
Plan Your Dream Australia Journey
Not sure where to start? Begin with the
Australia Bucket List — a curated guide to iconic adventures, coastal wonders, and unforgettable cultural encounters. From the Outback to the Great Barrier Reef, your dream journey starts here.
Regions That Shape the Journey
Every corner of Australia holds its own story — from cosmopolitan cities and coral seas to red deserts and wild frontiers.
Harbour icons & coastal rhythms
Sydney is where Australia’s story begins for many travelers — and it’s easy to see why. From sunrise at Bondi Beach to twilight sails across the Harbour, this city blends natural beauty with vibrant urban energy. The Opera House gleams like a sculpture against the water, the Harbour Bridge arcs proudly overhead, and neighborhoods pulse with food, fashion, and coastal charm.
Just beyond the city, the Blue Mountains unfurl their eucalyptus valleys, wine flows freely in the Hunter Valley, and coastal drives reveal hidden beaches. Whether you linger on the water or head out for a day trip, Sydney sets the tone for your Australian adventure.
Highlights: Sydney Opera House · Sydney Harbour Bridge · Bondi to Coogee walk · Blue Mountains · Hunter Valley wine country · Harbour cruises
Coral seas & island dreams
Beneath the sparkling surface of Queensland’s tropical waters lies one of the world’s greatest natural treasures — the Great Barrier Reef. Here, vibrant coral gardens, sea turtles, and gentle reef sharks glide through turquoise waters, creating a dreamscape for divers and snorkelers alike.
But the magic of Queensland goes beyond the reef. Palm-fringed islands, rainforest adventures in the Daintree, and luxe stays in the Whitsundays make this region a perfect balance of wild beauty and barefoot luxury. Whether by boat, seaplane, or underwater mask, this is a place to slow down and soak it all in.
Highlights: Great Barrier Reef snorkeling & diving · Whitsundays · Daintree Rainforest · Whitehaven Beach · Hamilton Island · Reef flights
Wine country & cultural charm
Melbourne moves to its own rhythm — elegant, artistic, and endlessly livable. Wander laneways filled with coffee aromas and murals, linger in wine bars, or catch a performance in one of its world-class theatres. This is Australia’s cultural heart, where creativity hums beneath the surface.
A short drive from the city reveals Victoria’s wine country — Yarra Valley vineyards, Mornington Peninsula coastlines, and the winding Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most scenic drives. Melbourne offers a refined, relaxed kind of magic, perfect for travelers who love depth, texture, and time well spent.
Highlights: Laneways & cafes · Yarra Valley · Great Ocean Road · Twelve Apostles · Federation Square · Mornington Peninsula
Outback spirit & ancient stories
At the heart of the continent lies a place unlike any other — the Red Centre. Uluru rises from the desert like a sentinel, glowing with shifting light at dawn and dusk. This is more than a landmark; it’s a sacred site, rich with Aboriginal history and spiritual resonance.
Guided walks reveal the stories etched into the land, while star-filled skies remind you just how vast this country truly is. Whether arriving by flight or on an epic road trip, the Red Centre is where silence, wonder, and connection meet.
Highlights: Uluru sunrise & sunset · Kata Tjuta · Aboriginal cultural tours · Field of Light installation · Stargazing · Desert dining
Wild frontiers & coastal retreats
Tasmania feels like a world apart — rugged coastlines, misty forests, and an emerging food and wine scene that’s quietly redefining Australian luxury. Hike through national parks where waterfalls and wilderness meet, savor fresh oysters by the coast, or cozy up in a lodge overlooking a quiet bay.
This is slow travel at its best: restorative, scenic, and deliciously off the beaten path. Whether paired with the mainland or savored on its own, Tasmania’s charm lingers long after you leave.
Highlights: Freycinet National Park · Wineglass Bay · MONA Museum · Cradle Mountain · Bruny Island · farm-to-table dining
Wild west coast wonders
For those who venture farther, Western Australia rewards with otherworldly beauty: turquoise bays, pink lakes, coral reefs, and some of the most pristine stretches of coast on Earth. Ningaloo Reef invites you to swim alongside whale sharks, Margaret River tempts with vineyards and surf, and Perth glows with laid-back coastal energy.
This region is vast and untamed — perfect for travelers who crave wide horizons and unforgettable adventures.
Highlights: Ningaloo Reef · Margaret River wine region · Pink Lake · Perth · Rottnest Island · whale shark swims
Signature Ways to Explore — Expertly Crafted Journeys
There’s no single way to experience Australia — only the one that’s right for you. We pair iconic moments with insider access, thoughtful timing, and a touch of effortless luxury to make each journey unforgettable.
Coastal Icons
Sydney, Reef & Whitsundays
Urban energy and island serenity meet in one unforgettable flow.
Outback Odyssey
Uluru & the Red Centre
Ancient landscapes, starry skies, and cultural stories carved into the land.
Urban to Vineyards
Sydney & Melbourne
Sophisticated city stays paired with rolling vineyards and ocean roads.
Wild & Remote
Tasmania & Western Australia
For travelers who crave wide horizons and wild beauty.
Seasonal Feature: Southern Summer Escape — Australia shines brightest from November through March, when long summer days light up the coastline, the reef hums with color, and vineyard regions brim with harvest season energy. It’s the perfect time for reef adventures, al fresco dining, and sunset sails.
Best Time to Journey
Every season paints Australia in a different light — from sun-drenched summers on the reef to crisp vineyard harvests and starry desert nights.
Spring
Sept–Nov
Mild weather, wildflowers, perfect for all regions.
Summer
Dec–Feb
Peak season for beaches, reef, and outdoor adventures.
Fall
Mar–May
Vineyard harvest and crisp coastal days.
Winter
Jun–Aug
Uluru at its best, whale watching, mild Sydney days.
Travel Tip: Australia’s summer is the Northern Hemisphere’s winter — making it an ideal winter escape for U.S. travelers.
Insider Planning Tips
Smart timing and thoughtful pacing make all the difference when exploring Australia’s vast and varied landscapes.
- Pair the coasts with the outback — Combining icons like the Reef or Sydney with Uluru or Tasmania creates a balanced and unforgettable journey.
- Book early for signature experiences — Reef tours, outback adventures, and wildlife encounters often sell out months in advance.
- Pace matters — Australia is expansive. Focus on 2–3 regions for a seamless flow rather than trying to see it all.
- Pack for contrasts — From humid tropics to cool highlands and desert nights, layering is key.
- Use internal flights strategically — Save hours of overland travel and spend more time experiencing each region.
- Savor the in-between moments — A sunset glass of wine, a quiet walk on the sand, or a starlit night sky often become the most memorable highlights.
- Mind the seasons — Weather varies dramatically between north and south. A spring in Sydney feels nothing like a summer in Cairns.
Your Australia Journey, Answered
Your questions are where the journey begins. Here’s what travelers ask most — and how Latitude & Leisure turns answers into effortless escapes.
Do I need a visa to visit Australia?
Yes. U.S. travelers (and most visitors) need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor visa to enter Australia. The ETA is a digital travel authorization linked to your passport, and most approvals are processed quickly — often within minutes.
However, if you have a criminal record or prior visa issues, your application may require additional review, which can take several weeks. It’s best to apply at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to avoid delays. You’ll also need a valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity.
Pro Tip: Even if you plan to visit New Zealand or another country first, apply for your Australian ETA before purchasing flights.
When is the best time to visit Australia?
Australia is a year-round destination, but the best time depends on what kind of experience you want.
Spring (Sept–Nov): Ideal for mild weather, wildflowers, vineyard harvests, and coastal travel.
Summer (Dec–Feb): Peak beach and reef season — warm and lively, especially along the east coast.
Autumn (Mar–May): A beautiful shoulder season for wine country, Sydney, and Melbourne.
Winter (Jun–Aug): Mild weather in Sydney and Brisbane, prime Uluru season, whale watching along the coast.
Insider tip: If you’re escaping a North American winter, December to February is Australia’s summer — ideal for reef, islands, and coastlines.
How long should I plan for my trip?
Because Australia is roughly the size of the continental U.S., travel distances are significant. Most travelers should plan at least 10–14 days to comfortably explore 2–3 regions (for example, Sydney + Reef + Red Centre).
7 days: Focused trip (1 region, light touch of a second)
10–14 days: Ideal for icons and natural wonders
15+ days: Extended or immersive journeys
Pro Tip: Build in a buffer day on arrival to adjust to jet lag after the long-haul flight.
Is it easy to get around the country?
Yes. Australia has a well-connected domestic flight network linking major regions, plus comfortable trains, ferries, and self-drive routes for scenic exploration.
Flights: The fastest way between major cities and regions (e.g., Sydney to Cairns in 3 hours).
Car rental: Ideal for wine regions, coastal drives, or Tasmania.
Private transfers & tours: Great for a seamless, curated experience.
Insider tip: Because of the distances, combining two coastlines and an inland experience gives the best balance of pace and variety.
Can I drive in Australia as a visitor?
Yes. Visitors can drive in Australia with a valid U.S. driver’s license. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended (especially for rural areas or rentals).
Key considerations:
- Australians drive on the left side of the road.
- Speed limits and enforcement are strict.
- Distances between towns can be long, especially in the Outback.
- In some regions, one-way campervan or car rentals are available and popular.
Pro Tip: Driving in wine regions and coastal stretches like the Great Ocean Road or Margaret River can be a highlight — but plan for long distances if self-driving between states.
What’s unique about Australian wildlife?
Australia is home to some of the most distinctive wildlife on earth — kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, wombats, platypuses, and extraordinary marine life.
Most wildlife experiences are in their natural habitats, not staged. For example:
- Spotting kangaroos at sunrise near the coast
- Koalas in eucalyptus forests
- Snorkeling alongside sea turtles and tropical fish on the Reef
- Seasonal whale migrations along the east coast
Insider tip: Many wildlife encounters are regulated for conservation. Booking with vetted local guides ensures your experience supports sustainable tourism.
How does tipping work in Australia?
Tipping is not mandatory in Australia. Service wages are higher than in the U.S., so tipping is more of a thank-you gesture than an expectation.
In restaurants: Rounding up or 10% for excellent service is common but optional.
Taxis and rideshare: Rounding up is appreciated.
Tours: Small tips are welcome but never required.
Insider tip: Unlike the U.S., service charges aren’t added automatically, so tip only if and when you feel it’s deserved.
Can I pair Australia with New Zealand or another destination?
Absolutely. Many travelers combine Australia + New Zealand in a single journey — for example, Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef followed by Queenstown or Auckland.
Flight time: 3–4 hours between east coast Australia and New Zealand.
Other popular pairings: Fiji, Singapore, Bali, and Japan.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning a multi-country journey, build your flights around open-jaw tickets (flying into one country and out of another) to save time and money.
What if I have accessibility needs or mobility concerns?
Australia is very accessibility-friendly, particularly in major cities, national parks, and popular attractions. Many tours, beaches, and accommodations offer wheelchair access, mobility support, and private options.
Insider tip: If accessibility is important, let us know early so we can build your journey around smooth logistics and inclusive experiences.
Can I travel to Australia if I have a criminal record?
This is an important one. If you have a criminal conviction, your ETA application may be denied or require further processing.
Travelers with no convictions can usually apply online and receive approval within minutes.
If you have a record, the process may require character assessments and additional documents.
Depending on the case, this can take weeks to months.
Insider tip: If this applies to you or someone in your travel party, start the visa process early — ideally 8–12 weeks out — and consult the official Australian Home Affairs website or a travel visa specialist.
What are the best places in Australia for specific sports and passions?
Australia is a natural playground — whether you’re chasing waves, teeing off with a view, or diving into vibrant coral gardens. Here’s where to go depending on your passion:
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling:
Head straight to the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands for world-class underwater experiences — coral gardens, sea turtles, and colorful marine life await. Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia offers a quieter but equally stunning experience (with the bonus of swimming with whale sharks in season).
Surfing:
Byron Bay is the soul of Australia’s surf culture — laid back and beautiful. Bondi Beach in Sydney is iconic, while Noosa and the Gold Coast deliver warm-water waves year-round. Advanced surfers often head to Margaret River for big, rolling swells.
Golfing:
For a bucket-list round, Barnbougle Dunes in Tasmania and Royal Melbourne Golf Club are two of the most prestigious courses in the world. New South Wales Golf Club also offers jaw-dropping coastal views just outside Sydney.
Adventure & Outdoors:
The Blue Mountains are perfect for hiking and canyoning, while Tasmania’s wilderness offers world-class trekking. For road trips and campervan adventures, the Great Ocean Road is a classic.
Insider tip: Many experiences can be built into curated itineraries — think sunrise surf lessons, dive trips with private guides, or vineyard-side golf stays.
What are Australia’s most exciting festivals and holidays?
Australia knows how to celebrate — from citywide light shows to outback music fests. Timing your trip around a festival can make your journey even more unforgettable:
- Sydney Festival (January) – A city-wide celebration of art, music, and performance.
- Australia Day (January 26) – National holiday with concerts, fireworks, and community events.
- Mardi Gras (February–March) – One of the world’s largest Pride celebrations, centered in Sydney.
- Vivid Sydney (May–June) – A dazzling festival of light and art installations across the city.
- Melbourne Cup (November) – Australia’s most famous horse race, known as “the race that stops the nation.”
- Splendour in the Grass (July) – Iconic music festival in Byron Bay.
- Christmas & New Year’s Eve – Especially spectacular in Sydney with its world-famous harbor fireworks.
Insider tip: Festival dates shift slightly each year. If you’d like to travel during one of these celebrations, plan well ahead — hotels and flights book up quickly.
What should I pack for Australia?
Australia spans multiple climates, so packing depends on your route and season. In general:
Light, breathable clothing for warm coastal regions
Layers for cool mornings and evenings
Sun protection (hat, SPF, sunglasses)
Comfortable walking shoes
A light jacket for Uluru or Melbourne nights
Pro Tip: Internal flights have weight limits — pack smart and light. Laundry is readily available in most hotels and lodges.
