The most beautiful places in Australia to add to your bucket list
Published on 18 Jul 2024
A land of stark contrasts and spectacular beauty, Australia offers some of the world’s most stunning and secluded destinations. From the rugged gorges and lush waterfalls of the Kimberley to the vibrant, life-filled waters of Rowley Shoals, the continent’s most breathtaking spots often lie hidden, accessible only to those willing to venture beyond the typical pathways.
If you’re looking for the most beautiful places in Australia to add to your bucket list, we’ve got you covered.
The Kimberley region
Call us biased, but the Kimberley region should be at the top of your bucket list. It’s a testament to nature’s artistry, where time has sculpted rugged mountains, deep gorges, and cascading waterfalls. This ancient landscape harbours some of the country’s most spectacular and inaccessible natural wonders, making it a bucket list destination for those on the hunt for adventure in the wild.
King George Falls
At the heart of the Kimberley, King George Falls offers a breathtaking spectacle. Twin cascades plummet over 100 metres into a deep gorge, their roar a powerful reminder of nature’s force. This site alone offers you a moment of awe and inspiration, accessible from the vantage of small ship cruises that can navigate closer than larger ships ever could (hint: that’s us!).
Montgomery Reef
As the tide recedes at Montgomery Reef, this 400 square kilometre reef emerges from the ocean in a dramatic display of waterfalls and rivulets, revealing a hidden ecosystem teeming with marine life. This natural phenomenon is guaranteed to astound you, even if you’re the most seasoned adventurer!
Wandjina rock art
Scattered throughout the Kimberley are the ancient Wandjina rock art sites, where the region’s cultural heritage is vividly painted on cave walls and rock shelters. These artworks, created by the Aboriginal people of the Kimberley, depict spiritual figures and are considered among the oldest continuous sacred painting traditions in the world.
Read more about the must-see spots in the Kimberley!
Rowley Shoals
Rowley Shoals is a pristine marine paradise off the coast of Western Australia. This chain of three coral atolls — Mermaid Reef, Clerke Reef, and Imperieuse Reef — is known for its crystal-clear waters, thriving marine life, and breathtaking coral gardens. It’s a snorkeller’s dream!
The ecological diversity at Rowley Shoals is remarkable, with vibrant corals, dramatic drop-offs, and sandy lagoons teeming with marine life. Divers and snorkellers can encounter an array of tropical fish, sea turtles, and even larger species such as reef sharks.
The clarity of the waters only makes the experience better, offering up to 60 metres of visibility on a good day, making it an underwater photographer’s dream. The reefs are also home to some rare species, including giant clams, moray eels, and colourful nudibranchs.
Exploring Rowley Shoals is a rare opportunity, with few vessels venturing into these waters. Its remote location and unspoiled beauty create an intimate experience that combines vibrant ecosystems, clear waters, and solitude.
Want to see it for yourself? Check out our Rowley Shoals cruises.
Eyre Peninsula
The Eyre Peninsula stands out as a highlight along the South Australia coast, known for its rich seafood and dramatic, rocky shorelines. This region’s pristine waters offer some great fishing opportunities, including bluefin tuna, kingfish, and various shellfish. And the coastal beauty extends beyond the shore, with vast stretches of rugged cliffs and secluded bays to explore.
Check it out on our Southern Safari.
Coral Coast
Further north, the Coral Coast presents an expanse of diverse ecosystems. Snorkelling and diving reveal vibrant underwater worlds, where coral reefs teem with life, and shipwrecks offer glimpses into the past. The area is also home to Ningaloo Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its whale shark migrations and marine biodiversity.
Abrolhos Islands
These islands present an incredible diving and snorkelling experience, where you can explore vibrant coral reefs and delve into underwater ecosystems. The Abrolhos Islands are also home to historic shipwrecks, offering a glimpse into Australia’s maritime past while providing adventurous dives among the remnants of centuries-old vessels. This unique destination showcases the diverse natural beauty of Western Australia’s coastline, from thriving marine habitats to historically rich underwater discoveries. What’s not to love?
See them on our West Coast Explorer!
Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as one of the world’s most renowned natural wonders. Stretching over 2,300 kilometres along Queensland’s coast, this vast reef system is composed of more than 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands.
It presents an incredible opportunity to dive and snorkel among vibrant coral gardens, explore marine habitats filled with tropical fish, and encounter larger sea creatures such as rays, turtles, and sharks.
This region also presents the opportunity to witness iconic species such as clownfish and giant clams!
See the Great Barrier Reef on our Great Barrier Reef Ultimate cruise.
The Whitsundays
The Whitsundays, a picturesque collection of 74 tropical islands nestled along the Great Barrier Reef off Queensland’s coast, offers visitors an idyllic blend of natural beauty and relaxation. Think white-sand beaches, azure waters, and vibrant coral reefs.
You can snorkel or dive among colourful marine life, including tropical fish, rays, and turtles, or enjoy relaxing on secluded beaches like Whitehaven Beach, renowned for its stunning silica sands.
Beyond its breathtaking seascapes, the Whitsundays also offer opportunities for hiking, island-hopping, and exploring luxurious resorts, making this region a diverse and enticing destination for any traveller.
Ready for adventure?
Experience Australia’s most beautiful and secluded destinations like never before by embarking on a luxury cruise.
From the breathtaking landscapes seen on our Kimberley cruises to the pristine waters of the Rowley Shoals, True North’s itineraries offer unique opportunities to explore the continent’s hidden gems. Explore our Australian cruise itineraries and book now to embark on an unforgettable journey!
