Save up to £20 💸 Coastal base close to nature and dining 🌸
Yes. Australia is surrounded by warm seas, and in a single trip you can see coral reefs, wild stretches of coastline, and quiet coves. The east coast stretches from subtropical Queensland to the beaches of the relatively cooler New South Wales, while the west coast offers vast, deserted sandy beaches and coastal coral reefs. Swimming conditions vary depending on the season and region.
Whitehaven Beach on the Whitsunday Islands, Cable Beach in Broome, and the coves around Byron Bay are considered some of the most famous destinations. Queensland is ideal for coral reef excursions and leisurely swimming, while New South Wales offers beaches perfect for surfing that are easily accessible from Sydney, and in Western Australia, you can enjoy quiet sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Since each coastline has its own unique atmosphere, choose a beach based on the type of beach holiday that appeals to you most.
The Gold Coast and Cairns in the state of Queensland are ideal for family holidays thanks to their shallow waters and opportunities for excursions to lagoon pools and coral reefs. Couples tend to choose the Whitsunday Islands with their small, cosy hotels, Byron Bay, or Margaret River. For those who want to combine city and beach in a single trip, Sydney’s beaches are ideal, while in Perth you can enjoy both beaches and wine regions.
The seasons here are the opposite of those in the UK: the Australian summer runs from December through February. Up in northern Queensland and the tropical regions, the best time to travel is from May through October, when humidity and rainfall decrease. In Sydney and along the southern coast, it’s warmest from December through March. During the off-season—for example, in April or November—prices are lower and there are fewer tourists.
Most rooms are offered either on a room-only basis or with breakfast included; breakfast is typically served as a buffet rather than a set menu. Coastal hotels usually feature a pool, air conditioning, and a terrace or balcony; larger resorts also offer restaurants, kids’ clubs, and opportunities for water sports.
Since the flight time from the UK is about 22 hours, plan a stay of at least 10-14 nights. Across 14 nights, you’ll be able to fully enjoy your holiday in one section of the coast without wasting time travelling. 3 weeks is the ideal length of time for a trip covering two destinations, such as Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef. If you’re already in the region, you can still fully enjoy your holiday even with a shorter stay.