If you’re fed up shivering through the winter in Australia’s cold southern states, then perhaps it’s time to escape to warmer climes? The great news is that, with Australia’s huge land mass comes a diverse climate so you don’t need to head overseas to catch some winter sun.
To give you some inspiration, here are our top five winter sun getaways:
Margaret River, Western Australia
Western Australia in winter makes a lot of sense, it’s less humid and the sun is bearable. While most people are drawn to Broome and its wonderful beaches, the wineries of Margaret River are where we’d be heading.
For the adventurous, hurtle along mountain bike trails to or stroll the stunning coastal walks where you’ll be lucky to see another living soul. Or, if you simply like to eat, drink and be merry, then there are enough award-winning restaurants and wineries to keep you busy for weeks!
Much-loved chef Ian Parmenter shares his hot spots around the region.
Kakadu, Northern Territory
Famed for its calm, spiritual atmosphere, Kakadu features prominently on the bucket list of many Australians, yet many are put off by the searing heat experienced most of the year. The cooler temperatures and dry season of June to September is the best time to visit the national park, but keep in mind it also coincides with school holidays, so choose your time wisely.
Sleeping under the stars at Kakadu is how many people choose to enjoy the region but if you don’t have your own campervan or tent, then why not try a little glamping?
Fraser Island, Queensland
With its numerous white sandy beaches, lakes and hinterland, Queensland is a perennial favourite of those looking to escape to the sun. Enjoying daytime winter temperatures in the mid 20s, World Heritage-listed Fraser Island is the epitome of a winter break destination. Located off the southern coast of Queensland, you might just be lucky enough to spot a humpback whale making its way to the Southern Ocean, if you’re there from late July to November.
Camping along 75-Mile Beach is a great way to enjoy your time on the island, just be sure to pitch your tent 50m from a water source.
Port Douglas, Tropical North Queensland
Heading a little further north not only raises the temperature by a few degrees, it also gives you access to the Great Barrier Reef – the section closest to Port Douglas is considered some of the best-preserved coral reef you can visit in the region. Because of this, July is considered peak season for Port Douglas so expect to pay for the privilege of staying there.
The water is cool and clear and you’ll also avoid stinger season, with the dangerous box jellyfish and Irukandji, so if you’re keen to snorkel or dive, it’s a great time to visit.
Looking for a recommendation on where to stay?
Darwin, Northern Territory
With its colourful history from the gold rush of the 1870s to the Japanese bombing raids of WWII, a trip to Darwin offers more than just a chance to escape to the sunshine. What may surprise people is just how picturesque Darwin is, especially when the sun goes down over the harbour.
If you’re a keen to cast a line and catch your own dinner, then fishing from the wharf is a popular pastime. Or, if you’re more adventurous and want to eyeball a crocodile, then you can take a tumble in the interestingly named ‘cage of death’.
Find out more about Darwin’s military history.
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The coolest place to cool off
Tropical Queensland on any budget
