Most tourists and locals itching to travel aim only for Sydney and Melbourne when exploring Australia, but those who already visited these major destinations don’t need to fret. Australia is speckled with small towns that are definitely worth a visit, especially if you’re looking for a chill vacation full of natural beauties and sandy beaches. So what are the must-visit hidden gems of Oz? Read to find out.
Magnetic Island, Queensland
In Queensland tropical north, just 20 minutes by ferry from Townsville lays Magnetic Island. This island is blessed with 23 gorgeous beaches which make this spot one of the best getaway destinations in Australia. The population of this island is just about 2,500 inhabitants, but the island has so much to offer to any visitor. Half of its territory is covered in protected nature and the other half is speckled with lux accommodation and exquisite dining options. Maggie, as locals love to call it, is best discovered by car. So as soon as you touch land, go look for a car hire in Magnetic Island and get yourself a vehicle. If you love to access secluded areas, definitely opt for a 4WD car, but if you just want to cruise around the island and feel the wind in your hair, you can opt for a chic convertible.
Broome, Western Australia
Known as Rubibi by the native people living in the area, Broome is a small town sitting on the coast of the Indian Ocean. This town was first visited by Europeans in the 17th century due to the booming pearl industry of the region. By the end of the 19th century, representatives chose the site for the town and named it after Sir Frederic Broome, then-governor of the territory. Today, this town is experiencing tourism growth and you can visit various monuments, learn about colonial history and even chat with Aboriginal people who still live in the area. You can also visit the nearby Cable Beach that has over 22 kilometers of white sand before hitting Wharf Restaurant for some fresh seafood. When exploring Western Australia, make sure to also hit Margaret River and go looking for fossils or stay for a few pints of craft beer.
Tennant Creek, North Australia
If you’re looking to experience traditional Australia, Tennant Creek is the place for you. Over 50% of this town is made up of indigenous people, so you can learn a lot about their culture and beliefs. History-wise, the city developed fast upon the discovery of gold, and even today, every child and visitor is given a Christmas gift at the Tennant Creek Christmas event from the funds of the Rising Sun Mine, so it’s smart to plan your vacation in December. This town offers a lot of leisurely activities like learning about Aboriginal life or visiting history and culture centers, but you can also try go-karting, hiking and other outdoor sports to raise your adrenaline.
Melrose, South Australia
Just less than 3 hours’ drive away from Adelaide (that’s nothing in Australian driving times) lays dreamy Melrose, one of the oldest and most beautiful small Oz towns. Even though the first European settlers came in 1840s, the town remained practically intact by globalization. When spending time in this town, make sure to go exploring the surrounding nature. The local Mount Remarkable National Park is home to emus, ringneck parrots, wedge-tailed eagles and goannas. If you want a more adventurous stay, visit the town in the summer when the Fat Tyre Festival (off-road bike and freak bike) is taking place. You can even join the King of Mount trail race and race to the top of Mt. Remarkable.
Yamba, New South Wales
Australia is very popular among surfers thanks to its massive coastline and good waves, but the little town Yamba in New South Wales is especially attractive. It has the perfect climate, a hippy way of life and the world-famous Angourie Point Break with consistent surf and great winds. If you’re interested in trying your hand at surfing for the first time, there’s also Turners Break perfect for beginners. The area also gets frequent visits from dolphins and whales, and you can freely go camping and swimming wherever. Yuraygir National Park also offers amazing trails perfect for multi-day hiking.
No matter if you’re a tourist or a local, these hidden gems must find themselves on your itinerary. Both adventurous nature-lovers and beach bodies will enjoy these charming towns and their impeccable Oz vibe.
About the author:
Peter is a fashion stylist and a writer from Brisbane, Australia. After graduating from Australian Institute of Creative Design he worked as a fashion stylist for few local fashion events. Beside fashion and styling, he enjoys traveling around exotic destinations and discovering new vintage stores. He’s future plans are in creating his personal styling business.