When we talk about Australian tourism, we first think of discovering Sydney and its Sydney Opera House or visiting Melbourne. They aren’t necessarily tourist traps, but as they are some of the country’s most famous attractions, the areas are always thronged with visitors.
Beyond the towns, there are many other attractions in the Land Down Under that are worth visiting. There are plenty of options for tourists – from the Great Barrier Reef to the outback and wilderness of Tasmania. Over 9 million travelers visited the country in 2019, and it’s no surprise as it has the best of both worlds.
ten Is Darling Harbor a real darling?
Preparing for a trip to Australia almost always includes a visit to Sydney. It is the most populous city in the country and hosts a variety of tourist attractions. One of them is Darling Harbor – a popular recreation area for locals and visitors. Since it is a port, it is always busy, more so now due to urban development in the area. There are museums, a shopping center, a casino, hotels, a theater, parks and a garden. It is a noisy attraction that is sometimes crowded. It might be a cherished experience for some, but it’s not for those who want some quiet time.
9 The twelve apostles are not actually 12
Tourists taking the Great Ocean Road, the largest war memorial in the world, will surely miss the limestone stacks called The Twelve Apostles and want to stop. This attraction in Victoria is so popular that tourists frequently pour from the observation deck into the cliffs and beach – which is a no-no. There aren’t even 12 limestone piles anymore, because only eight remain. It’s still worth a visit, especially for tourists who want a full Great Ocean Road adventure, but they’re encouraged to stick to the designated viewing decks. A helicopter ride might be the best way to take in the expanse of the region.
8 Overcrowding at the Three Sisters
If Victoria has The Twelve Apostles, New South Wales has The Three Sisters. The place is sacred to Aboriginal tribes, but still accepts tourists. Much like the limestone stacks of the Victorian era, these rock formations of the Blue Mountains are a popular destination. There is a staircase – the Giant Staircase – leading to a viewpoint, and it can easily get crowded during high season. Those patient enough to stay on the line will have great views of the mountains and unique rock formations.
7 Do the swan bells sound good?
The Swan Bells are housed in the Bell Tower, one of Perth’s most popular attractions. The bells are the second largest set of change bells in the world, and perhaps that’s where its claim to fame ends. Sure, the bells are historic, but that’s about it when visiting the tower. A manager complained that the tower isn’t tall enough, so even if tourists climb it, they don’t get access to the expanse of Perth’s cityscape. It’s really the bells that attract visitors. Visiting this destination is an aural experience, with few visual components to add.
6 Southbank is on fire and that’s it
Melbourne prides itself on its South Shore, an affluent neighborhood perfect for those who want to stroll along the Yarra River, visit casinos, try out waterside restaurants and appreciate public art. It is an urban center full of high-rise buildings and acts as a stopover for tourists before enjoying the hinterland. It’s all about comfort and convenience here, plus there’s a fire show at Crown Melbourne, and it might just be the hottest spot in town. It’s an urban destination, so tourists shouldn’t expect anything big, but more so, things like shopping, restaurants, and walks should be expected.
5 Is Fitzroy Island ideal for reef exploring?
Fitzroy Island in Queensland is just 45 minutes from Cairns, making it an attractive option for travelers to the region. It is not a crowded place and its fame is that it is surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef. Fitzroy’s beaches are pristine and the waters are clear, but honestly the best way to explore the world’s largest reef system is through the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The easy option isn’t always the best choice, but the island still offers some great snorkeling experiences.
4 Why Wave Rock
Tourists passing through Hyden in Perth should not miss the magnificent Wave Rock, an Instagrammable all-day formation. The rock formation is 15 meters high and spans 100 meters, so there are plenty of places for tourists to perfect their poses. This is a must visit for those in Perth but not ideal for those visiting from other areas as it is far away and there is not much to do. Besides the rock formations, there is a lake, a swimming pool, a museum, a cave, street art and a stargazing spot. It is a nice place to visit for those who are already nearby.
3 The Brisbane River is not for swimmers
Brisbane’s famous waterway is a busy place, not only for anglers and commuters, but also for tourists who want to enjoy the views of the river. There are plenty of cruise operators in the area, but so as not to rain on anyone’s parade, CityCat ferry rides are cheaper – albeit for commuting. The river is not in good condition but remains a popular place of recreation. The Riverwalk, especially the floating walkway, attracts walkers. The river itself is welcoming – but not for swimmers – and there are calls for expanding tourism to Stradbroke and Moreton Islands. The Brisbane River is always worth a visit since it is right in the city.
2 Wineglass Bay is crowded
There are many activities to try in Tasmania, including a visit to the famous Freycinet National Park. This destination is so popular that in 2017 environmental groups called for a tourism cap to be imposed to protect the area. Overcrowding is a problem as people flock to see the majestic Wineglass Bay. There are limited parking spaces near the beach and the lookout is packed with tourists during high season. The park isn’t just about Wineglass Bay, so visitors should check out its other offerings as well.
1 Respect Uluru
Uluru was once a climber’s paradise until rock climbing was banned in the area as the place, after all, is sacred to the Aborigines. This massive formation in the Northern Territory became even more famous when it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although closed to climbers, the area is still frequented by tourists. The local community is supported by tourist activities but still fights for the protection of its culture and the environment. The monolith is beautiful to behold, but guests are reminded that they are not just visiting an attraction, but a shrine.
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