Australia is a country full of adventurous spirits, with unparalleled opportunities to drive, dive and trek your way through the great outdoors.
This list of Australia’s best adventure activities will satisfy your inner thrill-seeker and send you to some of the most unique regions in the world.
Walks and hikes
The Great Ocean Walk is one of the most iconic long-distance walks in Australia, drawing thousands of tourists every year with a passion for hiking and adventure. Along the 104 km trek, you will find cascading waterfalls, lush forest and unique wildlife such as kangaroos, goannas and koalas. Here, you’ll see parts of Victoria you never thought to explore.
For a shorter adventure, Bridge to Bridge at Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra is a great option. The man-made lake is a hub of sport, recreation, picnicking and fun with wonderful views across the calm water. Walking the 5km loop is an ideal way to get your steps in while enjoying the sunshine.
Of course, any list of hiking hotspots must include the Overland Track in Tasmania. From snow covered mountains to rainforests and waterfalls, this Wilderness Wild Heritage Area really has it all. The Overland Track is a five or six day hike starting at Cradle Mountain, with plenty of places to camp along the way. The views on this walk are unparalleled, and confident hikers will fall in love with the abundant surrounds. There are also several luxury stays to choose from at the end of your journey, so you can soothe aching muscles in the spa and enjoy local cuisine.
For more wonderful walking trails, check out our stories on Wagga Wagga and Ceduna.
4WD
From two legs to four wheels, Australia is a country full of incredible 4WD tracks.
Lake Eildon is only a day’s drive from Melbourne. Once the centre of a gold rush, this national park now draws a crowd for water sports including swimming, water skiing, sailing and canoeing on the beautiful lake. Here, you will find long drives and well-equipped campgrounds. Make sure to keep an eye out for kangaroos, wombats and birds as you go!
If you’re looking for an easier driving experience, Fortescue Bay in Tasmania is a calm yet stunning road. This 12 kilometre track takes you through some of the state’s oldest forests, ending in a bay with beautiful walking tracks, camping areas and views. Starting just 90 minutes from Hobart, this drive works as a day trip or an overnight stay. Trust us – you’ll want to bring your camera for this one.
For a mix of history and unique landscape, we suggest driving through the Flinders Ranges. This area is more than 600 million years old, carrying a rich Indigenous heritage and pioneer history. The dramatic landscape will take your breath away, with something new waiting at every turn. Keep your eyes out for endangered animals like the Yellow-footed Rock Wallabies who camouflage on craggy ledges, and wonders such as the Wilpena Pound, an impressive natural amphitheatre.
Camping
In Australia, there is a never ending list of wonderful camping sites. However, some stand out due to their creative offerings or unmatched access to the land.
Bowra Wildlife Sanctuary is home to more than 200 species of bird and 29 native mammals. When you camp here, all proceeds go directly to conservation efforts that help to support endangered species. Campers can choose from powered or unpowered sites, both nestled in the heart of the outback. Here, you will encounter a range of friendly animals and get in touch with the natural world like never before.
Warrumbungle National Park in NSW is the Southern Hemisphere’s only dark-sky park, meaning it is completely free from light pollution. Amateur and expert stargazers alike will marvel at the celestial wonders right above their heads, which shine all night long. There are several campsites to choose from here, with amenities to help you make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
History buffs will love pitching a tent in Idalia National Park near Windorah. Staying here is a great excuse to try one of the many hikes through the tablelands, which lead you past the musterer’s hut and stockyards preserved from the 1920s. Further along, you will come to a collection of white, red and yellow-stained sandstone ideal for sitting and admiring the landscape. The campground is unpowered, though guests are encouraged to bing a caravan or camper along.
For more amazing camping locations, check out our stories on Hughenden, Bedourie and Roma.
Water sports
With so many stunning beaches and waterways in every direction, it’s no surprise that Aussies love the water.
On the Gold Coast, you’re invited to take a deep dive into the Wonder Reef, the world’s first purpose-built floating reef. Rising 22 metres from the sea floor, you will find nine underwater sculptures covered in algae and surrounded by colourful fish colonies. This truly unique experience is an innovative mix of art, science and engineering, taking diving to a whole new level by celebrating the power of nature and creativity. Slip into a wetsuit and enjoy an adventure like no other!
Discovered in 1917, Hastings Caves is an incredible natural formation known for its intricately decorated chambers and rich collection of stalactites. To reach the cave, visitors must walk through a lush forest, home to plenty of Tasmanian flora and fauna. Once inside, you can head to the Hastings Thermal Springs and enjoy a relaxing swim in the naturally heated waters.
If you’d rather keep your head above water, there are plenty of great places for kayaking and white water rafting in every corner of Australia. On Katherine River in the Northern Territory, you will pass thirteen breathtaking gorges carved into the ancient sandstone. When paddling down the river, you can choose to join a guided tour for an informative discussion of the region’s history, or go off on your own to admire the wildlife and Indigenous artwork surrounding you.
On the Macleay Valley Coast, budding surfers can learn how to ride the waves like a pro. Crescent Head is home to the world-famous Point Break (yes – the one from the movie!), with an on-site surf school offering lessons for individuals and groups. Bring your towel and get ready to shred your way from sea to shore.
Travel Australia with Rex
This list barely scratches the surface of Australia’s best adventure activities. To try them for yourself, head to the Rex website and book your flights today!
