Whether you love chilling on the East Coast or living in South Asia, Australia has everything for everyone. While it is famous for its beautiful beaches and big cities, it also has many hidden gems waiting to be explored. The motive for revealing these places is not to make them overcrowded but to help you find the perfect spot for your next holiday. These places are ideal for students, families, and first-time travellers.
If you are tired of the regular, crowded city centres with little to no influence from nature, you might love exploring these places, which are not only raw and natural but also vibrant for explorers. From the Southern coast to the Western Coast of the continent, these are some of the most amazing yet underrated places Down Under.
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Coober Pedy
The scenic beauty of South Australia is unmatched, and Coober Pedy is one beautiful example. When you move towards the north of Adelaide in an 8-9 hour drive, you reach this unusual town, which looks like you are on planet Mars. Most people here live underground to escape the desert heat. There is a whole new world beneath the ground where people are shopping, staying in hotels, and even praying in churches. This unique town is famous for opals, colourful gemstones found in the area.
The Pinnacles Desert
If you love natural phenomena, the Pinnacles Desert in Western Australia would be a life-changing experience. These limestone formations, also called "Ghost Silhouettes" for their shapes, can be intimidating to many people. The place is near the relaxed coastal town of Cervantes. All you need to do is drive two hours north of Perth, and you'll reach your destination. These golden-sand tall limestone pillars look mysterious and ancient, and no one knows exactly how they were formed, which makes this even more worth visiting. Besides, you can get the best sunrise and sunset images at this place.
Kangaroo Island
People who love wildlife and respect nature will fall in love with this place. Kangaroo Island is undoubtedly a wildlife paradise. However, reaching there is not very smooth. To reach this South Australian Island, you need a ferry or a short flight from Adelaide. Once you reach Kingscote, which is the main town, you will see Koalas, dark-furred Kangaroos, and sea lions in their natural habitat. Moreover, it is the only sanctuary for pure Ligurian bees and has remarkable rocks and untouched limestone cave systems.
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Grampians National Park
Melburnians who love exploring nature don't have to go very far to have a peaceful, natural experience. If you are in Victoria, the Grampians National Park is a must-visit. It is about a three-hour drive west of Melbourne, and you'll be there before even realising it. For the best experience, you can stay in Halls Gap, known for its mountains, waterfalls, and hiking trails. The Grampians are home to wallabies and colourful birds. Besides, you can also explore Aboriginal rock art sites or enjoy the wide valley view.
Jervis Bay
White sand, clean air, and the sound of nature. If that is all you want, Jervis Bay is the place to be. If you are living in Sydney, you have to drive three hours south of the city, near charming seaside towns like Hyams Beach and Huskisson. The place is known for having the whitest sand in the world. With bright blue water, this place is a great weekend getaway for Sydney residents. You can swim, kayak, or watch dolphins, and revitalise yourself for the next few days. Overall, it is a great place for people of all ages.
Lord Howe Island
Imagine feeling the clear blue sea waves on your feet, and clean wind in your skin and hair. Lord Howe Island is like a hidden tropical dream for beach lovers (thalassophiles). Located in the Pacific Ocean, it is officially part of New South Wales and can be reached via a flight from Sydney. The best part of this Island is its low footfall, making it a calm place to have fun. It is known for its coral reefs, green forests, and tall mountains, which are a treat to watch. You can hike up the hills or snorkel in clear water; this place has everything for peaceful nature lovers.
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Naracoorte Caves National Park
This place is ideal for people who love history and science. Naracoorte Caves National Park is a mesmerising underground world just outside the rural town of Naracoorte, South Australia. You can drive from Adelaide for about 4 hours, or drive 1 hour from Mount Gambier to reach this place. The park has fossils of ancient animals that lived thousands of years ago, which is why it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. A guided tour of this park will feel like a natural museum beneath the earth, offering the best experience for young science and history enthusiasts.