Luxury Down Under: Unique Things to Do in Australia

Queensland

Boasting some of the world’s oldest rainforests at Daintree and renowned for the divinity of blues and greens found in the waters of the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland is the gift that keeps on giving when it comes to what to do in Australia. Walk along the idyllic white beaches of the Whitsundays, fly over a dreamy heart-shaped reef, admire the artistry of Torres Strait Islanders, stargaze from the salt pans of Burketown, or kayak along the UNESCO Biosphere of the Noosa Everglades, a sanctuary for 40% of Australia’s birdlife.

When it comes to unique experiences in Queensland, discover what we’d recommend.

Face the Great Barrier Reef at The House, Lizard Island

Perched on a private peninsula with panoramic views across the Coral Sea Islands and rocky bush terrain, eight guests can luxuriate at this secluded three-storey house with direct beach access. This modern abode is balanced with natural materials and has the most divine rooftop, as well as a yoga deck, outdoor baths and generous balconies to maximise the expansive scenery. Not to mention, each day you’ll be served curated menus by a private chef and have access to a Searanger boat for reef snorkelling, one of the best things to do in Australia on the coast.

Discover the Ocean on a Private Charter

Experience unparalleled bliss on your own private charter as you sail across glittering waters and discover the best of Australia from the ocean. With pristine corals as your backdrop and a plethora of dive sites, encounter the friendly Potato Cod or visit Cobia Hole and Blue Lagoon. Enjoy sunset fishing and clear view sea kayaking, or snorkel over Giant Clam Gardens at Watson’s Bay.

New South Wales

The diversity of New South Wales is depicted through the alluring Three Sisters of the Blue Mountains, the verdant hills and Winelands of Hunter Valley, spotting street art in Newcastle or swimming alongside seals at the stunning Sapphire Coast… to name but a few. Sydney’s fabulous dining scene and surfing meccas are the perfect bookends to your Australian adventure.

Uncover some of the most unique places to visit in Australia in New South Wales and enjoy a diverse range of different things to do.

Ring the Bells at Killcare on the Central Coast

Just outside the Sydney hustle, get cosy at boutique seaside cottages and villas that will make you feel right at home, with shades of serene blue and divine bathtubs to soak in. Dine on seasonal Mediterranean flavours, find sanctuary at their spa, and enjoy the seven beaches and stunning walking trails of the Bouddi Peninsula. It’s the perfect place to enjoy some of the most relaxing Australia experiences.

Stay at the Capella Lodge on Lord Howe Island

Eden is encapsulated in the breathtaking beauty of Lord Howe Island which welcomes tourists to protect its unspoiled rainforests. Some of the most spectacular things to see in Australia include the scenery here on this tiny island, which offers pristine beaches, towering cliffs and reefs teeming with colourful marine life. Championing barefoot luxury, experience the romance of Lovers’ Bay with majestic twin mountains towering above, while resting in one of nine contemporary suites, reminiscent of an authentic Beach House.

Fly High Above Bouddi Peninsula

For one of the most exhilarating unique things to do in Australia, take flight with Sydney Seaplanes above the diverse landscapes of northern Sydney, the southern Coast, and Bouddi Peninsula’s rainforests and beaches from the comfort of a Cessna Caravan Amphibian. This joyride offers an aerial perspective of these shimmering jewels, with the thrilling chance to land on water.

Soak up Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island

Reclaiming its title as ‘the pioneer of experiential luxury’ after a fresh-faced clifftop renovation, the signature curved lines and timeless design of Southern Ocean Lodge highlight the magnificent coastal views and the wonders of Kangaroo Island. With a wide range of signature and bespoke experiences that showcase many of the best things to do in Australia, spend your days spotting koalas and kangas, walking along dramatic limestone cliffs, getting up close to the special erosion of Remarkable Rocks and discovering stalactites of Kelly Hill Caves.

Keep it Moving at CABN

The urge to disconnect (to reconnect) is a balsam for the soul. Embrace a more nomadic life in South Australia as you base yourself at off-grid, sustainable and minimalist accommodation retreats that proudly run on solar power amidst stimulating landscapes.

Only the essentials apply at these restorative cabins – a daybed to read a good book or immerse yourself in the surroundings, and quality time spent by yourself or with a partner. Some CABN X come with a cosy fireplace, private sauna and outdoor bath for an elevatedexperience, so you can relax and unwind amongst some of the best of Australia’s scenery.

Western Australia

Thanks to the vast swatches of unspoiled outback, the western third of the country is truly one of the best places to discover unique things to do in Australia. Whilst the capital Perth provides a haven for surfers and culture seekers, it shares the space with ancient Aboriginal sites, endless canyons and rock formations and one of the world’s last wilderness frontiers. Return to a life that’s untamed and aligned with the natural world, whether you’re exploring the reefs, rivers, islands or outback.

For Australia experiences that are truly authentic, the west of the country is ready and waiting.

Experience Life at Sea on True North Adventure Cruises

Capturing the explorer’s spirit with a True North Adventure cruise, sailing across three remote regions – Kimberley Coast and Rowley Shoals Marine Park as a highlight, then Indonesia, West Papua and Papua New Guinea within reach. With all the luxury fittings of an exclusive hotel, choose from 7, 10 and 13 nights of activity-based sailings, where naturalists and specialist guides accompany you on adventure boats and heli-flights for a better lay of the land.

Setting the stage for grand storytelling, take part in unique cultural experiences and traditions that celebrate ancient mankind and exist nowhere else in the world. Access pristine wilderness aboard a purpose-built expedition vessel for just 36 guests and enjoy one of the most unforgettable seafaring activities in Australia.

Live like a Rancher at Bullo River Station

Where the Bullo and Victoria rivers converge, experience one of the best unique things to do in Australia with life at a working cattle station (with a 2,000 Brahman-cross herd!) and homestead that prioritises pastoral work in tandem with environmental conservation. With half a million acres to privately roam across gorges, waterholes and waterfalls, feast your eyes on Aboriginal rock art and wonderful birdlife. Enjoy catch-and-release Barramundi fishing, spot the elusive pygmy crocodiles, and indulge in provenance-focused, farm-to-table alfresco dining, giving way to the starry night’s theatre.

Get Up High on a Helicopter Flight

With so much ground to cover, the only way is up! As the ultimate mode of transportation, imagine landing near private waterfalls for a gourmet picnic, spotting congregating wildlife from a bird’s eye view, or reaching pristine swimming holes devoid of crocodiles. The beauty and magnitude of one of the most unique places to visit in Australia will be only heightened by your vantage point in the sky.

Our Final Thoughts…

Offering a multitude of experiences, it would take a lifetime to scratch the surface of Australia’s bounty. As you traverse the continent, every one of these destinations offers unique experiences that bring you closer to the country’s history and its magnificent landscape.

To begin your 360 journey and unlock exclusive travel experiences, learn more about our 360 Private Travel membership and let us tailor your journey based on what you’re truly seeking. With every step, your 360 Travel Designer will redefine bespoke luxury travel that aims to change your life forever.