Summer in Australia is coming! From sun-soaked beaches to lively cultural events and Christmas barbecues to ringing in the New Year with dazzling fireworks, summer (December to February) is when Australia truly shines. Cities host festivals, outdoor dining events, and leisure cruises celebrated by the community and tourists alike. We shine the spotlight on popular activities in the top five destinations of Australia—Sydney, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Hobart and Perth.
Sydney
Sydney in summer offers endless opportunities to explore its iconic sights, like the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and the stunning harbour. Top things to do in Sydney include relaxing at Bondi or Manly Beach or taking a scenic hike to the Figure 8 Pools in the Royal National Park. The highlight of the harbour city is the Sydney Harbour cruises, offering options like dining cruises, sightseeing cruises, sunset cruises, or casual cruises.
That said, Sydney’s calendar is packed with unmissable events, from the iconic Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race to the dazzling New Year’s Eve Fireworks and the celebrations of Australia Day. To make the most of these moments, join a scenic cruise for front-row views of the action. For a change of pace, escape to nearby wine regions or the Blue Mountains, or unwind with family in Sydney’s charming coastal towns.
Gold Coast
Gold Coast, one of Australia’s premier getaway destinations is at its absolute best during summer. With sunny skies giving perfect beach weather in the day and cooler breezes for a stroll at night, you never run out of things to do in Gold Coast. To beat the heat and cool off, this beloved coast offers a stream of summer activities like hitting the water slides at theme parks and visiting zoos and museums.
To top it all, Gold Coast offers jet boat adventures that zip past some of the city’s most iconic waterfront landmarks. To make the most of these sunny days, it is also the best time of the year to surf at the Surfers Paradise, with its waves rolling in more consistently. Meanwhile, Tweed attracts visitors with its lush hinterland and quiet beaches, perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature. You can also join a family day out aboard a Surfers Paradise River cruise, a scenic Tweed Day tour cruise, Gold Coast river cruises, sunset cruises, or crab catching and dolphin-watching tours.
For the ones looking for entertainment therapy, attend the Magic Millions Carnival and Gold Coast Turf Club Horse Race to get your energy rolling. This holiday spot also features many culinary delights with dining locations in the main city of Surfer’s paradise.
Melbourne
In summer, Melbourne basks in long, golden days, with a thrilling mix of sports, nature, and scenic experiences. Just like the temperature, the enthusiasm amongst everyone is on the rise, and there are just plenty of things to see and do in this City of Literature. The Australian Open lights up January with two weeks of tennis, live music, and city-wide celebrations.
Enhance your visit with a relaxing Yarra River cruise, and Melbourne sightseeing cruise, offering unique views of Melbourne’s vibrant skyline and landmarks. Venture beyond the city to drive down the Great Ocean Road and see the famous 12 Apostles, explore Wilsons Promontory’s trails, or enjoy wine and beach swims on the Mornington Peninsula. On Phillip Island, you can see the seals in their natural habitat and witness the magical penguin parade at dusk, as these adorable creatures waddle ashore after a day at sea.
Hobart
Hobart, Tasmania’s vibrant capital, comes alive in summer with a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Surrounded by majestic mountains and pristine waterways, it's the perfect season for hitting the walking trails, enjoying alfresco dining by the harbour or visiting a beach to enjoy the perfect sunset. Summer in Hobart is however incomplete without experiencing its popular cruises, which connect visitors to iconic landmarks, tranquil rivers, and breathtaking coastal scenery, offering a fresh perspective on this picturesque city.
Derwent River cruises offer views of Hobart’s stunning attractions like the Tasman Bridge, Battery Point, and MONA, alongside serene landscapes. For adventure seekers, the Tasman Island cruise unveils towering sea cliffs, caves, and native wildlife along the rugged Tasman Peninsula. Bruny Island cruises take you past sea caves, dramatic rock formations, and vibrant marine life, including seals and dolphins, making it the ideal summer destination.
Perth
Perth is famous for its staycations and snorkelling sessions in summer, making it an enviable spot for visitors. For the adventurers, you can explore the coastline and head further south to Rockingham to swim with dolphins, or a few hours north to Jurien Bay where you can snorkel with sea lions. For added fun, join a cruise on the Swan River for stunning skyline and waterfront views. The idyllic Rottnest Island is just a short ferry ride away, but you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another world.
There are almost 63 white sand beaches to discover and experience, many of which you might share with the adorable resident quokkas. In Margaret River you’ll get gorgeous beaches alongside award-winning wineries, giving you plenty to keep busy from morning to evening. Continue to Esperance in Cape Le Grand National Park for more white sand beaches frequented by local kangaroos.
So, have you locked in your Aussie summer plans yet? Whether it’s cruising the Gold Coast, soaking up the vibes in Sydney, or exploring the beauty of Hobart, the adventure awaits! Make this summer one to remember.
Sydney
Sydney in summer offers endless opportunities to explore its iconic sights, like the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and the stunning harbour. Top things to do in Sydney include relaxing at Bondi or Manly Beach or taking a scenic hike to the Figure 8 Pools in the Royal National Park. The highlight of the harbour city is the Sydney Harbour cruises, offering options like dining cruises, sightseeing cruises, sunset cruises, or casual cruises.
That said, Sydney’s calendar is packed with unmissable events, from the iconic Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race to the dazzling New Year’s Eve Fireworks and the celebrations of Australia Day. To make the most of these moments, join a scenic cruise for front-row views of the action. For a change of pace, escape to nearby wine regions or the Blue Mountains, or unwind with family in Sydney’s charming coastal towns.
Gold Coast
Gold Coast, one of Australia’s premier getaway destinations is at its absolute best during summer. With sunny skies giving perfect beach weather in the day and cooler breezes for a stroll at night, you never run out of things to do in Gold Coast. To beat the heat and cool off, this beloved coast offers a stream of summer activities like hitting the water slides at theme parks and visiting zoos and museums.
To top it all, Gold Coast offers jet boat adventures that zip past some of the city’s most iconic waterfront landmarks. To make the most of these sunny days, it is also the best time of the year to surf at the Surfers Paradise, with its waves rolling in more consistently. Meanwhile, Tweed attracts visitors with its lush hinterland and quiet beaches, perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature. You can also join a family day out aboard a Surfers Paradise River cruise, a scenic Tweed Day tour cruise, Gold Coast river cruises, sunset cruises, or crab catching and dolphin-watching tours.
For the ones looking for entertainment therapy, attend the Magic Millions Carnival and Gold Coast Turf Club Horse Race to get your energy rolling. This holiday spot also features many culinary delights with dining locations in the main city of Surfer’s paradise.
Melbourne
In summer, Melbourne basks in long, golden days, with a thrilling mix of sports, nature, and scenic experiences. Just like the temperature, the enthusiasm amongst everyone is on the rise, and there are just plenty of things to see and do in this City of Literature. The Australian Open lights up January with two weeks of tennis, live music, and city-wide celebrations.
Enhance your visit with a relaxing Yarra River cruise, and Melbourne sightseeing cruise, offering unique views of Melbourne’s vibrant skyline and landmarks. Venture beyond the city to drive down the Great Ocean Road and see the famous 12 Apostles, explore Wilsons Promontory’s trails, or enjoy wine and beach swims on the Mornington Peninsula. On Phillip Island, you can see the seals in their natural habitat and witness the magical penguin parade at dusk, as these adorable creatures waddle ashore after a day at sea.
Hobart
Hobart, Tasmania’s vibrant capital, comes alive in summer with a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Surrounded by majestic mountains and pristine waterways, it's the perfect season for hitting the walking trails, enjoying alfresco dining by the harbour or visiting a beach to enjoy the perfect sunset. Summer in Hobart is however incomplete without experiencing its popular cruises, which connect visitors to iconic landmarks, tranquil rivers, and breathtaking coastal scenery, offering a fresh perspective on this picturesque city.
Derwent River cruises offer views of Hobart’s stunning attractions like the Tasman Bridge, Battery Point, and MONA, alongside serene landscapes. For adventure seekers, the Tasman Island cruise unveils towering sea cliffs, caves, and native wildlife along the rugged Tasman Peninsula. Bruny Island cruises take you past sea caves, dramatic rock formations, and vibrant marine life, including seals and dolphins, making it the ideal summer destination.
Perth
Perth is famous for its staycations and snorkelling sessions in summer, making it an enviable spot for visitors. For the adventurers, you can explore the coastline and head further south to Rockingham to swim with dolphins, or a few hours north to Jurien Bay where you can snorkel with sea lions. For added fun, join a cruise on the Swan River for stunning skyline and waterfront views. The idyllic Rottnest Island is just a short ferry ride away, but you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another world.
There are almost 63 white sand beaches to discover and experience, many of which you might share with the adorable resident quokkas. In Margaret River you’ll get gorgeous beaches alongside award-winning wineries, giving you plenty to keep busy from morning to evening. Continue to Esperance in Cape Le Grand National Park for more white sand beaches frequented by local kangaroos.
So, have you locked in your Aussie summer plans yet? Whether it’s cruising the Gold Coast, soaking up the vibes in Sydney, or exploring the beauty of Hobart, the adventure awaits! Make this summer one to remember.
