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Travelling To Australia Soon? Here Are The Top Destinations You've Gotta Visit In 2023

From Western Australia to Tasmania, we take a look at the best places to visit in all eight territories.

Cover image via Lachlan Dempsey (Unsplash) & Christine Mendoza (Unsplash)

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This Spotlight is sponsored by Tourism Australia.

If you're on the cusp of deciding where you wanna travel this year, this is your sign to head to The Land Down Under!

You've probably heard from friends and family about how amazing their trip to Australia was, and have been itching to go ever since. We're here to assure you — travelling to Australia is ideal if you want to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

From vibrant cities to natural parks, pristine beaches to snow-capped mountains, and ancient Indigenous culture to unique wildlife, there's something for everyone in Australia.

Let's take a closer look at the top destinations you gotta cross off your bucket list:

1. Nature-lovers can take this opportunity to visit a variety of national parks, white sandy beaches, and jaw-dropping natural landscapes!

Lake MacDonnell, South Australia

Image via South Australia

Lake MacDonnell, South Australia
You'll find Lake MacDonnell by taking the dirt trail from the town of Penong. On clear days, the lake gives off a beautiful pink hue, thanks to its high concentration of salt-loving algae.

Grampians National Park, Victoria
If you're looking for a challenge, you can hike up the trails of Grampians National Park, complete with plenty of camping grounds and majestic waterfalls.

Wineglass Bay, Tasmania.

Image via Tourism Australia

Wineglass Bay, Tasmania
One of the top 10 beaches in the world, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the turquoise waters at Wineglass Bay while digging your toes in the white sand!

Daintree Rainforest, Queensland
Take a cruise through the 135-million-year-old Daintree Rainforest to see ancient reptiles such as saltwater crocodiles and tropical bird species such as great-billed herons.

Sunrise over the Three Sisters, New South Wales.

Image via Tourism Australia

Three Sisters, Blue Mountains, New South Wales
Named after the three sisters who were part of the Katoomba tribe in the local Indigenous legend, the rock formation is a sight to behold, standing at 922, 918, and 906 metres tall.

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
A short drive from Canberra, families will be able to see koalas, kangaroos, birds, and reptiles at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve.

The Pinnacles, Western Australia

Image via Tourism Australia

The Pinnacles, Western Australia
This natural landmark is located in Nambung National Park. For the best experience, visit the limestone structures after 9pm.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Northern Territory
Whether you wish to admire the beauty of the sunsets and sunrises or explore nature with the guided ranger walks, there are plenty of activities to experience at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

2. If you're looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life to relax and rejuvenate, there's an array of hot springs and natural spas you need to visit

Metung Hot Springs, Victoria.

Image via Tourism Australia

Metung Hot Springs, Victoria
Overlooking the magnificent Gippsland Lakes, you can enjoy bathing, spa treatments, and even sleep when you book the glamping packages.

Talaroo Hot Springs, Queensland
Formed millions of years ago, the water temperature at the Talaroo Hot Springs can go up to 68°C. You can access the communal bathing pool via guided tours.

Bitter Springs, Northern Territory.

Image via Tourism NT

Bitter Springs, Northern Territory
At Bitter Springs, you'll be amidst palms and tropical woodlands in Elsey National Park. Other activities you can do here are bird-watching and walking around the area.

Apsley Waterhole, Tasmania

Looking for a scenic bushwalking track? You can enjoy a swim in the waterhole to cool off before resuming the rest of your walk.

Wyadup Spa, Yallingup, Western Australia.

Image via Airloft

Wyadup Spa, Western Australia
This hidden gem allows you to fully immerse yourself in the rocky coastline scenery with stunning views.

Whalers Way, South Australia
Explore great cliffs, blowholes, crevasses, caves, and golden beaches that are a must for every hiker and nature-lover.

Yarrangobilly Caves thermal pool, New South Wales.

Image via Tourism Australia

Yarrangobilly Caves, New South Wales
Check out spectacular limestone caves with guided tours, where you'll be able to see stalagmites, stalactites, shawls, and cave corals.

Adytum Sanctum, ACT
This wellness retreat provides a one-of-a-kind experience with their day spas, bathhouses, and holistic therapy.

3. Australia has plenty of family-friendly locations, ranging from mild to adventurous activities for kids and adults alike

Quokka at Rottnest Island, Western Australia.

Image via Tourism Australia

Visit adorable quokkas at Rottnest Island, Western Australia
You can swim, snorkel, boat, and cycle at this island, with up to 45km of walking trails and 22km of cycling trails. The island's quokka population is always a delight for both kids and adults.

Embark on an eco-adventure in Kangaroo Island, South Australia
Those interested in wildlife, photography, and wine will enjoy what Kangaroo Island has to offer. Visit the award-winning Little Sahara, Kangaroo Island's top eco-adventure centre for a great family adventure, or take it easy with a walk down Kangaroo Island Sculpture Trail. P.S: Visit during May to September to enjoy the cooling weather!

Lady Musgrave Experience HQ

Image via Tourism and Events Queensland

Dive into the vibrant waters of the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland
Arguably one of the most famous attractions of Australia, discover a large collection of sea creatures as you snorkel through the ocean. The Great Barrier Reef also has a number of family-friendly destinations from Cairns through to the Whitsundays and the Southern Great Barrier Reef.

Go on an epic road trip on the Great Ocean Road, Victoria
If you'd like to take a drive, you'll come across iconic landmarks such as the 12 Apostles, Tower Hill, Mount Gambier, and many more.

Cradle Mountain, Tasmania.

Image via Tourism Australia

Explore the alpine wilderness of Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
Located at Lake St Clair National Park, Cradle Mountain is home to various wildlife such as Tasmanian devils, quolls, platypus, echidna, wombats, and black currawongs. Cradle Mountain's vast network of walking trails includes a collection of short walks, suitable for families that will be sure to take your breath away.

Learn about fascinating animals at Taronga Zoo, New South Wales
Home to over 400 animals from over 350 species, you can see animals such as giraffes, meerkats, tree kangaroos, sunbears, and many more at this zoo that is committed to conservation efforts. The zoo has plenty of kid-friendly activities, from its daily keeper talks and shows sharing fascinating animal facts to its immersive Tiger Trek experience.

Hot air balloon in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory.

Image via Tourism Australia

Go on a hot air balloon ride in Canberra, ACT
Give your family an unforgettable experience by floating hundreds of metres in the air coupled with a fantastic view on a hot air balloon ride.

Explore unique wildlife at Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory
As a UNESCO World Heritage, you'll be spoilt for choice with things to do such as exploring rock art, birdwatching, crocodile spotting, fishing and boating, and more. The award-winning Yellow Water Billabong cruise is a must do for every family who visits Kakadu National Park.

It's time to fulfil that wanderlust by heading to Australia! Head over to Australia.com to start planning your trip today.

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