Australia’s Hidden Gems Away From The Tourist Trail

Australia is home to many spectacular sights that welcome millions of tourists each year. Yet, aside from the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, Melbourne, Sydney, Kakadu, Phillip Island and the Great Ocean Road, there is also many lesser-known attractions where travellers can find peace away from the bustling crowds and meet the real Aussie locals (if you’re in doubt, read this guide on how to spot a real one!). Below we look at some of Australia’s Hidden Gems.

Guide to Australia’s Hidden Gems

Bay of Fires, Tasmania

When it comes to Tasmania, there are a few well-known and well-trodden locations. However, the crystal clear waters and hot white sands of the Bay of Fires have surprisingly stayed somewhat hidden from tourists. Just off the beaches lie an abundance of rare and exotic marine life. This makes it a fantastic place to snorkel. It is so quiet and peaceful that it is easy to feel like you are the only one there. Which is ideal for a little sanctuary away from the usual tourist trails. Travellers who make it to this location enjoy dolphin-watching, exploring underwater caves and camping on the sand. One of Australia’s Hidden Gems not to be missed!

Cockatoo Island, New South Wales

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the many islands dotted around Sydney Harbour. To get there, simply take a short ferry from Circular Quay. Despite its proximity to such a busy tourist trap, Cockatoo Island is surprisingly one of Australia’s best-kept secrets. It is full of rich history from its days of convicts, industry, and shipbuilding. Cockatoo Island is also home to one of the best views of Sydney Harbour!

Arnhem Land, Northern Territory

Arnhem Land may seem very remote, but it is truly one of the best places to visit to immerse yourself in Australian culture, traditions and wilderness. Those planning a visit to the Australian bushland and wildlife of Kakadu, Australia’s largest land-based national park, will find even more enjoyment and fascination at Arnhem Land. It is around the same size as the entire state of Victoria and filled with fantastic waterfalls, rivers, rainforest, remote islands and gorges. You will require a permit from the traditional owners, the Yolngu people. In saying that, this place is definitely worth the effort.

Lake Bumbunga, South Australia

This magical, colour-changing lake is another one of Australia’s Hidden Gems. The saline levels of Lake Bumbunga mean that its colour shifts between white, blue, and pink throughout the year. The changes in colour mean that this lake is a popular spot for nature photographers. It is also a great spot for amateurs to get some spectacular shots too. There are several pink salt lakes in South Australia, however, Lake Bumbunga is a popular one due to it being located just a two-hour drive from Adelaide. This is a great sightseeing road trip, especially when combined with the nearby Clare Valley wine region.

Bungle Bungles, Western Australia

The Bungle Bungle Range is in Purnululu National Park, a remote area of the country – but definitely worth the detour for travellers seeking unique landscapes. This natural wonder is formed of other-worldly sandstone formations – the stones are covered in stripes and often look similar to beehives. These stones are surrounded by the luscious grassy plains of the Kimberley region, with many rising up to 250 metres above the grasslands. Thrill-seeking travellers can take to light planes and helicopters to see the impressive sights in all their glory.

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If you want to have a look at our other guides in Australia, have a look here.

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