The pristine white sand beaches meet the turquoise Indian Ocean on the beaches of Western Australia, which makes this one of the most picturesque coastlines in the country. Rays of sunshine beam down to illuminate the miles of golden coastline as waves lap against sandy beaches - a surfer's dream.
If nature is your thing then you’re in for a treat. Australia’s diverse makeup is a goldmine of spectacular sights, one of the most recognisable being Ayers Rock. Protruding from the desert like a beacon, the rock glows red at dawn and sunset. Also known as Uluru, the large sandstone rock is sacred to the Pitjantjatjara Anangu, the Aboriginal people of the area and attracts many to the area each year.
Certainly the most captivating of all of Australia’s wonderful natural sights is the Great Barrier Reef. A dazzling kaleidoscope of colour, the coral reef is the world’s most extensive ecosystem home to over 1,500 species of fish, around 240 species of birds and a diverse array of crustaceans, anemones and marine worms. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it is one of Australia’s best-known attractions.
The jewel in Australia’s crown, Sydney is one of the most interesting places to visit thanks to its cosmopolitan feel and rich history. The city attracts nearly half of all international visits to Australia thanks to its iconic harbour and glorious beaches. It is also home to the famous Sydney Opera House, another UNESCO World Heritage site recognised the world over due to its unique and eye-catching design.
30 miles outside of Sydney, you’ll find the Blue Mountains, a range of tall forests, sandstone cliffs, canyons and waterfalls. Covering 3,861 square miles, the area is named after the blue tinge that illuminates the range when viewed from afar. With over 87 miles of walking tracks, you’ll witness a spellbinding panorama of undulating forests and great sandstone plateaus wherever you wander. Whether you choose to admire the native bushland, marvel at the impressive rock formations or explore underground caves, you’ll leave the Blue Mountains feeling at one with nature.
The capital of Western Australia, Perth is one of the most geographically isolated cities in the world. Known for its endless sunshine and pristine beaches, Perth offers picture postcard scenery and a myriad of attractions. Whether visiting for a day or stopping for a few nights, this welcoming destination has much more to offer than you probably expect from such an isolated area. Embrace park life, head to the glittering coastline or visit Perth Zoo.
Melbourne is Australia’s second-largest city and is considered to be the country’s cultural capital thanks to its many art galleries, museums, live music scene and notable culinary culture. If you’re a foodie, Melbourne is the place to be. The dining scene is buzzing with such fantastic diversity that’s full of personality - enough to whet anyone’s appetite!
Which cruise lines sail to Australia?
