Stay Home: Holiday Destinations in Australia

You don’t always have to travel far to enjoy an unforgettable escape. Australia is brimming with unique destinations that blend relaxation, adventure and natural beauty, inviting you on a staycation that feels every bit as rewarding as an overseas holiday. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, explore the art-filled streets of Melbourne or wander the scenic landscapes of Tasmania.

Our Holiday Experts have compiled the best holiday destinations in Australia, with must-visit spots you won’t want to miss.

Best holiday destinations in Australia

Packed with bucket list destinations, Australia is the perfect place for a holiday. From wildlife encounters to world-class beaches and vibrant cities, a local escape offers the same sense of wonder as an overseas trip, without the long flights and unnecessary costs. Plus, when you book a perfectly packaged Australian holiday with My Holiday, you’ll unlock exclusive Bonus Value.

Spend more time relaxing and less time travelling. With flexible travel options and a diversity of destinations, Australia is a great destination for every traveller. Chase adventure, slow down by the coast or immerse yourself in city culture. Your next escape is closer than you think.

Aerial view of a secluded tropical beach bordered by lush green forest on one side and clear turquoise ocean on the other. Peaceful and serene setting.

The Whitsundays: snorkelling, skydiving and turquoise seas

A secluded cove with clear turquoise water, surrounded by towering cliffs. A sandy beach is nestled between the rocks, and a boat sails in the distance.
Aerial view of turquoise water with scattered coral reefs in unique patterns. A heart-shaped reef is prominently visible, conveying a sense of natural wonder.
A serene beach scene featuring a striped hammock between palm trees, overlooking turquoise waters and a wooden pier. Lush greenery frames the peaceful view.
A woman in a white dress lounges on a sailboat, holding a sunhat, with a clear blue sky and distant mountains in the background, conveying relaxation.

The Whitsundays are one of Australia’s most breathtaking coastal regions, with 74 tropical islands surrounded by sparkling turquoise waters and the iconic Great Barrier Reef. Hamilton Island is the perfect base for a holiday to the Whitsundays thanks to its laidback atmosphere and easy access to the area’s best experiences.

Unwind on the white sands of Whitehaven Beach and let the day unfold at your own pace. You might slip into the water for a snorkelling tour, where you’ll encounter vibrant marine life, or take a scenic flight over the reef for a once-in-a-lifetime perspective. If you’re visiting between October and June, you’ll enjoy tropical weather and clear water, but don’t forget to wear a stinger suit.

Magnetic Island: beaches, scenic views and wallabies

Just a 30-minute ferry ride from Townsville lies a true tropical paradise. Magnetic Island is known for its relaxed atmosphere, inviting you to move between wildlife encounters, snorkelling experiences and scenic hikes without feeling rushed. Hire a car and explore at your own pace to discover quiet bays, rocky headlands and breathtaking nature.

A family of four enjoys building a sandcastle on a sunny beach. The ocean is calm, with distant swimmers and rocky cliffs under a clear blue sky.

The Sunshine Coast: dreamy beach lifestyle

The Sunshine Coast is all about beaches, slow coffee stops and simple holiday bliss. You’ll find golden sands stretching as far as the eye can see, with plenty of family-friendly swimming spots. Make sure to stop by Australia Zoo for a close look at crocodiles, koalas and the wildlife made famous by the Irwin family.

A day trip to Noosa is also a must. Browse Boutique shops with an ice cream in hand, or wander through Noosa National Park in search of the fairy pools. Whether you’re travelling with family or a group of friends, the Sunshine Coast won’t disappoint.

A surfer rides a gentle turquoise wave near a rocky shoreline. Multiple surfers in the distance, with a lush, tree-covered hill under a clear sky.

Melbourne: cities, cafés and culture

A vibrant cityscape of Melbourne at sunset, featuring skyscrapers, a historic church, and a detailed arched bridge reflecting in the Yarra River.
Woman in a black coat and beanie stands on a busy city street, holding a phone. Iconic building and tram in the background. Daytime, lively urban vibe.
Sunlit coastal scene of the Twelve Apostles in Australia. Eroded limestone stacks rise from blue ocean waves with a backdrop of rugged cliffs.
A woman stands on a wooden boardwalk overlooking a stunning coastal view. The scene features cliffs, lush green shrubs, and shimmering blue ocean under a clear sky.
Expansive vineyard under a clear sky, with rows of grapevines stretching towards distant hills. Foreground shaded by a large tree, evoking tranquility.

Melbourne is the perfect city escape when you’re craving world-class food, art-filled laneways or a slow morning with good coffee. It’s a city where every corner reveals something new, a rooftop bar glowing at sunset, a tucked-away gallery or a street that bursts with colour. Whether you’re drawn to culture or a keen shopper, Melbourne offers an experience you’ll want to relive again and again.

Spend time wandering through the famous laneways and explore vibrant street art before you head to the National Gallery of Victoria for a dose of creativity. Browse fresh produce and local stalls at Queen Victoria Market, relax by the river along Southbank or head to St Kilda for beach views and a breezy afternoon walk. Just remember to pack plenty of layers. Melbourne is known for having four seasons in one day.

Perth: Stunning beaches and snorkelling

A Western Australia holiday is a must, and Perth Is the perfect place to start. The city sits among some of the country’s most unique and breathtaking landscapes. Wander through Kings Park for scenic skyline views or join an Aboriginal walking tour to learn the land’s cultural stories.

Spend your days unwinding by the coast. You can swim or snorkel at Cottesloe Beach or take on a surf lesson along the coast. With its steady sunshine and easy going pace, Perth is the perfect place to unwind.

A couple sits on vibrant green grass, overlooking a city skyline under a blue sky. The scene conveys relaxation and a serene urban landscape.

Rottnest Island: bicycling and Quokka encounters

Dreaming of a trip to Rottnest Island in Western Australia? This dreamy island is located just 19km off the coast of Perth. There are more than 60 beaches to discover, each offering crystal clear waters and unique scenery you’ll remember for a lifetime.

With no cars on the island, the best way to explore is by bike. Don’t forget to stop for a swim and cool off. Along the way, you’ll likely encounter the famous quokkas of Rottnest Island, known for their friendly disposition and camera-ready cuteness. Whether you spend your day lazing by the beach or exploring the scenery, Rottnest Island is all about slow moments, sun and relaxation.

Esperance: crystal-clear water and scenic flights

Esperance is the kind of place your thought only existed in movies. On the south coast of Western Australia, you’ll find a coastline that feels completely untouched, with some of the whitest sand and brightest blue water in the country. A must-see is Lucky Bay, Australia’s whitest beach. Paddle out and cool off in the water, or take a scenic flight over Pink Lake.

Follow the bushwalking tracks that wind through Cape le Grand National Park for stunning scenery and panoramic views. Even a quiet afternoon on the beach can turn into a rare encounter, with friendly wildlife roaming the coastline. If you’re visiting between July and October, be sure to keep an eye out for passing whales.

Tasmania: Scenic landscapes where nature abounds

Tasmania may be Australia’s smallest state, but it’s full of unforgettable experiences. The island offers a mix of dramatic mountains, lush rainforests and long, untouched beaches. Walking the trails around Cradle Mountain is the perfect chance to savour incredible views and some of the cleanest air in the world. Visit Wineglass Bay at Freycinet National Park for clear blue water and stunning coastal scenery.

Food lovers will feel right at home here. Tasmania is known for fresh seafood, local produce and high-quality ingredients that make every meal something to look forward to.

Serene landscape featuring a calm lake reflecting mountains and blue skies, surrounded by lush greenery and scattered clouds.

Sydney: history, beaches and iconic landmarks

Sydney is often mistaken for being the capital of Australia, and it’s easy to see why. As the country’s most visited city, it blends iconic landmarks with a rich cultural heritage. One of the best ways to experience Syndey’s coastal beauty is by walking from Bondi Beach to Coogee. This famous clifftop trail delivers scenic views, beaches and ocean pools that make the walk as memorable as the destination.

Hop on a ferry to Manly. The ride itself is a highlight, offering postcard perfect views of the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. Once you arrive, Manly’s relaxed beachside charm makes it a great place to spend the day. If wildlife is on your list, Taronga Zoo is the perfect place to encounter animals from around the world. Set on a hill overlooking the harbour, the zoo combines close up encounters with stunning views of the city.

my-holiday-sydney-opera-house-at-night-in-sydney

Byron Bay: laidback days and coastal charm

Aerial view of vibrant kayaks scattered across clear turquoise water, creating dynamic patterns. The scene conveys a sense of adventure and tranquility.
A solitary white lighthouse stands atop a grassy cliff, overlooking a vast, calm ocean under a serene blue sky. A winding path leads to it.
Surfers sit on their boards in calm ocean water under a vibrant sunset sky. Clouds are softly painted in hues of orange and blue, conveying a peaceful mood.
Beach scene with many people enjoying the ocean. Soft waves and turquoise water create a lively, tranquil atmosphere. Distant sandy shore with scattered swimmers.

Byron Bay has a calm, easy rhythm that makes it simple to settle in. This charming costal town offers a relaxed atmosphere with stunning beaches and plenty of dining options. Unwind on the beach and let the day move at its own pace as you enjoy the gentle mix of surf-culture and laid-back living Byron Bay is known for.

Spend some time exploring the coastal track up to Cape Byron Lighthouse where the view stretches out over the ocean. You might spot dolphins gliding through the waters or koalas hiding in the trees. Stroll through the city centre and explore handmade local crafts and nourishing food that gives the area its warm, local feel. Make sure to visit the Piano Bar for live music at night.

Make your Australian staycation effortless

Australia is a place of endless possibilities. With so many incredible holiday destinations right on your doorstep, planning a holiday at home has never been more rewarding.

Tags: , , , ,
Categories : Travel