Australia is massive, diverse, and packed with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, which is exactly why many travelers ask: where do I even start? From iconic natural wonders to laid-back coastal towns and adrenaline-filled adventures, the best things to do in Australia span every travel style.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore deeper, this list covers things to see and do in Australia that truly define the country. If you’re wondering what to do in Australia, looking for fun things to do in Australia, or just want a clear plan, these 25 experiences showcase the top things to do in Australia from coast to outback.

And since many of these things to do in Australia take you far beyond city Wi-Fi, having a Jetpac eSIM Australia for tourist use (with flexible eSIM plans Australia) is a simple way to stay online for maps, bookings, and safety, plus it helps you pick the best eSIM for Australia before you even land.

1. Snorkel or Dive the Great Barrier Reef

No list of things to do in Australia is complete without the Great Barrier Reef. Stretching over 2,300 km, this is the world’s largest coral reef system and one of Earth’s greatest natural wonders. Snorkeling or diving here puts you face-to-face with coral gardens, sea turtles, rays, and tropical fish. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Australia for nature lovers.

If it’s your first trip, our complete Australia Travel Guide helps you plan routes, visas, and must-know tips before you go.

2. Watch Sunrise or Sunset at Uluru

Uluru is not just a landmark, it’s a spiritual experience. As the sun rises or sets, the massive sandstone monolith shifts through deep reds and glowing oranges. Visiting Uluru is one of the most meaningful things to see in Australia, offering a deep connection to Aboriginal culture and the heart of the Outback.

3. Road Trip the Great Ocean Road

This legendary coastal drive in Victoria delivers cliffs, beaches, rainforests, and the iconic Twelve Apostles. Spot wild koalas, stop in charming seaside towns, and soak up ocean views. It’s one of the top things to do in Australia for road-trip lovers and photographers.

Want to build the perfect itinerary? Explore the Best Places to Visit in Australia for cities, nature, beaches, and wildlife hotspots.

4. Hike to Wineglass Bay, Tasmania

Tasmania’s Freycinet National Park is home to Wineglass Bay, often named one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. The lookout hike rewards you with jaw-dropping views of white sand and turquoise water. For scenic escapes, this is one of the most rewarding things to see and do in Australia.

5. Discover Pearls and Sunsets in Broome

Broome blends rich pearling history with one of Australia’s most stunning beaches. Learn about South Sea pearls by day, then watch the sun melt into the Indian Ocean at Cable Beach, often from a camel ride. It’s unique Australian stuff to do far from the usual tourist trail.

6. Museum-Hop in Brisbane

Brisbane surprises many visitors with its cultural scene. From GOMA to the Queensland Museum, the city offers relaxed yet high-quality arts and science experiences. It’s a great balance of learning and leisure among the best things to do in Australia in a city setting.

7. Explore Kakadu National Park

Kakadu is a UNESCO-listed wonder where ancient rock art, waterfalls, wetlands, and wildlife coexist. Cruise Yellow Water Billabong, hike escarpments, and learn about Aboriginal heritage. Few places combine culture and nature like this, making it one of the top things to do in Australia.

8. See a Pink Lake in Western Australia

Australia’s pink lakes look unreal, and Lake Hillier is the most famous. Best seen from the air, its bubblegum color contrasts sharply with the blue ocean nearby. It’s one of the most unusual things to see in Australia.

9. Swim with Whale Sharks at Ningaloo Reef

From March to August, Ningaloo Reef offers the rare chance to swim alongside whale sharks. These gentle giants glide calmly through clear water, making it one of the most unforgettable fun things to do in Australia for adventure seekers.

10. Go Off-Grid in the Daintree Rainforest

The Daintree is the world’s oldest tropical rainforest. Expect ancient trees, cassowaries, crocodile cruises, and almost no phone signal. It’s one of the most immersive things to do in Australia for travelers craving raw nature.

11. Shop and Eat at Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne

Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Market is a food lover’s paradise. From fresh produce to hot jam doughnuts, it’s buzzing with local life. Exploring this market is classic Australian stuff to do and a perfect intro to Melbourne culture.

12. Hike the Blue Mountains

Just outside Sydney, the Blue Mountains deliver waterfalls, eucalyptus forests, and iconic viewpoints like the Three Sisters. With accessible trails and epic scenery, this is one of the most popular things to see and do in Australia.

13. Tour Wine Regions like Barossa or Margaret River

Australia’s wine regions rival the best in the world. Barossa Valley and Margaret River combine vineyard views, tastings, and gourmet food. Wine touring easily ranks among the best things to do in Australia for relaxed travel days.

14. Climb Mount Kosciuszko

Standing on Australia’s highest mainland peak is surprisingly accessible. The hike is gentle, scenic, and family-friendly in summer, making it one of the more approachable things to do in Australia for outdoor lovers.

15. Meet Quokkas on Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island is famous for its smiling quokkas. Add car-free cycling, snorkeling beaches, and crystal-clear water, and you have one of the most joyful, fun things to do in Australia.

16. Sail the Whitsunday Islands

Whitehaven Beach, turquoise waters, and island hopping make the Whitsundays a tropical dream. Sailing here is consistently ranked among the best things to do in Australia for beach lovers.

17. Go Skydiving Over Iconic Landscapes

Skydiving in Australia comes with unbeatable views, from Mission Beach to Byron Bay. It’s a rush plus scenery, making it one of the boldest things to do in Australia.

18. Whale Watch in Hervey Bay

Hervey Bay is a global hotspot for humpback whales. Close encounters with breaching whales make this one of the most emotional things to see in Australia.

Traveling alone? Check out solo travel Australia for safety tips, social destinations, and easy ways to meet people on the road.

19. Sandboard Giant Dunes

Surf sand dunes at Stockton or Lancelin for pure fun. It’s messy, hilarious, and unforgettable, perfect for travelers seeking fun things to do in Australia.

20. See the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge

These two icons define Australia. Walk the bridge, tour the Opera House, or admire them from the harbor. This is essential what to do in Australia for first-time visitors.

21. Hike the Larapinta Trail

For serious hikers, the Larapinta Trail offers red-rock ranges, desert silence, and epic sunrises. It’s one of the most challenging and rewarding top things to do in Australia.

22. Visit Kangaroo Island

Wildlife, rugged coastlines, and quiet beaches define Kangaroo Island. Sea lions, koalas, and untouched nature make it one of the best things to see and do in Australia.

23. Learn to Surf

Australia’s beaches are made for surfing. From Bondi to Byron Bay, taking a surf lesson is classic Australia stuff to do and a rite of passage.

24. Chill Out in Byron Bay

Byron Bay is all about slow living, yoga, surf, and sunsets. If your idea of what to do in Australia includes relaxing, this town delivers.

25. Cross the Country by Train

The Ghan and Indian Pacific trains let you traverse Australia in comfort while watching landscapes change dramatically. It’s slow travel at its finest and one of the most unique things to do in Australia.

Staying Connected: eSIM Australia for Tourists

Australia is huge, and staying connected makes exploring easier. A Jetpac eSIM Australia for tourist use lets you access maps, rideshares, bookings, and navigation instantly without swapping physical SIMs.

With Jetpac flexible eSIM plans Australia travelers can stay online from Sydney streets to remote Outback roads without worrying about roaming bills.

Staying connected while exploring remote areas? This comparison guide helps you choose the Best eSIM for Australia for reliable coverage and value.

FAQs

What are the best things to do in Australia for first-time visitors?

Some of the best things to do in Australia include visiting the Great Barrier Reef, seeing Uluru, exploring Sydney Harbour, driving the Great Ocean Road, and meeting wildlife on Kangaroo Island. These highlight the country’s diversity.

What are some fun things to do in Australia besides sightseeing?

Beyond landmarks, fun things to do in Australia include learning to surf, sandboarding on giant dunes, skydiving over beaches, sailing the Whitsundays, and swimming with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef.

What are the top things to do in Australia for nature lovers?

Nature-focused travelers will love Kakadu National Park, the Daintree Rainforest, the Blue Mountains, Tasmania’s Wineglass Bay, and the Larapinta Trail. These are some of the most rewarding things to see and do in Australia.

How long do you need to see the main things to do in Australia?

Australia is huge, so most travelers need at least 2 to 3 weeks to cover the major highlights. With less time, focus on one region to still enjoy the top things to do in Australia without rushing.

Is Australia good for adventure and outdoor activities?

Yes, Australia is ideal for adventure seekers. From hiking, diving, and wildlife encounters to road trips and train journeys, there’s no shortage of things to do in Australia across landscapes.

Do tourists need an eSIM when traveling in Australia?

Using an eSIM Australia for tourist travel is highly recommended. Flexible eSIM plans in Australia make it easy to stay connected for maps and bookings, and choosing the best eSIM for Australia helps avoid roaming charges, especially when exploring remote areas.

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational and educational purposes only. Travel conditions, prices, availability, activities, and connectivity services may change without notice. Always verify details before booking. Jetpac is not responsible for network coverage, speed, availability, or service interruptions in Australia.