Australia is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world and with good reason! It’s the sort of place that has just about everything! Beautiful natural scenery can be admired all around Australia. There are many stunning landscapes to be discovered in this large and diverse nation, from the famous beaches and wild coastline of the east to the arid sands and red rock formations of the west.
Many people might be familiar with places like Sydney, Melbourne, and the Great Barrier Reef, but there are a ton of other places in Australia that are just waiting to be explored. Several Australia hidden gems are worthwhile seeing, from isolated, wild areas to hidden places in the middle of the country.
A well-seasoned traveler has likely seen a lot of Australia’s more famous attractions. But for those who want something off the beaten track, in this article, I’ll share a few of these hidden places in Australia and provide you with suggestions for things to see and do there.
1. Lake Hillier
In Western Australia, there is a place called Lake Hillier that is extremely extraordinary and interesting. The lake’s color, as implied by its name, is a vivid and dazzling shade of pink that is unmatched anywhere else on the globe. The precise explanation of the lake’s pink tint has been the subject of countless investigations and research attempts, but no theory has yet been proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The fact that Lake Hillier keeps its vibrant pink hue all year long, even after being bottled, is what makes it so unique. Other pink lakes across the world, however, frequently change color or lose their strength over time. Due to its island location and location on Middle Island, this Australia hidden gem is only reachable by helicopter. Although some people might find this disappointing, the breathtaking sight of this natural wonder is worth the time and money.
Unfortunately, there are no services or amenities for guests because of the lake’s isolated position and the island’s lack of infrastructure. But the helicopter excursions that carry tourists to the lake frequently incorporate additional local sites and attractions, providing a unique and unforgettable experience.
In general, Lake Hillier is a hidden gem in Australia ideal for anybody interested in extraordinary landscapes and natural wonders. Even though it could be challenging to get there, the breathtaking sight of this pink lake is certain to make an impact.
Why can’t you visit Lake Hillier?
You can visit Lake Hillier but it’s not easy. Lake Hillier is located on Middle Island, a tiny island off the coast of Western Australia. The island is in a secluded location with no roads or infrastructure to assist tourists. As a result, neither walking nor driving to the lake is an option. The only method to get to the lake is on a helicopter trip that departs from the adjacent town of Esperance. These cruises are the only method for the general public to see the lake and experience its unusual pink tint in person.
2. The Haunted Bookshop
The Haunted Bookshop is a genuinely unusual and interesting place, and one of the best hidden Melbourne gems. This bookshop focuses on all things eerie, unusual, and otherworldly, offering a diverse selection of books, periodicals, and other goods likely to appeal to fans of the dark and occult.
Inside the bookstore, you’ll find a wide range of books on themes like ghosts, ghouls, vampires, aliens, and so on. Whether you’re interested in the history of the paranormal, the newest hypotheses regarding alien life, or simply want to snuggle up with a good ghost story, the Haunted Bookshop has something for you.
The Haunted Bookshop, in addition to its outstanding collection of books and other materials, provides a variety of other attractions and activities. The ghost tour, which takes guests around Melbourne’s streets in search of the city’s most haunted sites, is one of the most popular. This trip is a must-do for everyone looking for hidden gems Australia and wishing to have a good time in the city. It’s guaranteed to be a memorable and exhilarating experience!
The Haunted Bookshop is a must-see for anybody interested in the paranormal or seeking something a little different, whether you’re a die-hard paranormal aficionado or just want to peruse the shelves and see what catches your eye.
3. Kimberley
Some of the most stunning views in Australia can be seen in the Kimberley region, which is a rough and isolated area of Western Australia. Kimberley is a location with extraordinary natural beauty that is just waiting to be discovered, from its rough coastline to its vast and varied inland regions. It’s a sure winner for those who want to get away to Australia’s more rural and natural areas.
The Bungle Bungle Range, a group of magnificent sandstone domes that emerge from the desert, is one of Kimberley’s most well-known sights. The characteristic horizontal stripes on the domes were created over millions of years by the combined forces of wind and water. Hikers love to visit the Bungle Bungles in the Purnululu National Park because they have the opportunity to explore the network of paths that weave through the domes and enjoy the breathtaking views from the summit.
The Horizontal Falls, a collection of cascading waterfalls that plunge over a small coastal chasm, is another must-visit location in the Kimberley. These falls are natural phenomena that can only be seen from a boat; excursions are offered from Derby. The Horizontal Falls are a genuine natural wonder that should not be missed when traveling through the Kimberley area.
The Kimberley region is wonderful for camping and outdoor adventure in addition to hiking and sightseeing. Visitors get the opportunity to reconnect with nature and take in the beauty of the Australian outback thanks to the area’s numerous campsites and bushwalking routes.
Teeming with places to explore and visit, Kimberley’s the perfect hidden gem Australia for when you want to put on your hiking shoes and get back out into nature. So get yourself a car from Bayswater car rentals and get off the grid!
4. Newnes Glow Worm Tunnel
The Newnes Glow Worm Tunnel is a genuinely one-of-a-kind and intriguing attraction in New South Wales, Australia. The tunnel, which was previously part of an abandoned railway line, is now home to hundreds of glow worms, whose dazzling blue-green glow illuminates the night.
To enjoy the Glow Worm Tunnel’s splendor, guests must enter the tunnel on foot and go to the center. They should turn off their headlamps and wait for the glow worms to materialize once they arrive. The tunnel will come alive with the shimmering lights of the glow worms as the eyes adjust to the darkness, producing a memorable and enchanting display.
While the Glow Worm Tunnel may appear to be an unusual holiday destination, it is one of Australia’s most stunning and intriguing sites. You’ll be transported to another world filled with enchantment and wonder the moment you enter the tunnel. Whether you’re a daring tourist or simply searching for something unique, the Glow Worm Tunnel is a must-see Australia hidden gem that will make an intense impression on you.
5. Flinders Ranges
South Australia’s magnificent Flinders Ranges mountain range is home to a variety of tourist attractions and activities. In addition to numerous gorges and valleys, the range is home to rugged peaks and cliffs that are well-liked by rock climbers. There are a variety of hiking paths around, from quick, straightforward strolls to longer, more difficult hikes.
The Wilpena Pound resort, which is a part of the Wilpena Pound national park, is one of the most well-liked locations in the Flinders Ranges. The resort is the ideal starting point for exploring the nearby forest and provides a variety of lodging options, from opulent tents and cabins to more affordable campsites. Along with a variety of guided excursions and activities, the resort also has several amenities like a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool.
The Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, a protected region that is home to several rare and endangered species, is another must-see location in the Flinders Ranges. With several well-marked routes that take in the breathtaking surroundings and let visitors get up close to the indigenous flora and animals, the sanctuary is a well-liked location for bushwalking. Numerous guided experiences are also offered, such as 4-wheel drive excursions and spectacular flights over the mountain ranges.
If you want to enjoy the splendor of the Australian outback, you must travel to the Flinders Ranges. The Flinders Ranges is one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Australia, whether you’re searching for adventure or simply want to unwind and enjoy the landscape.
6. The Atherton Tablelands
The Queensland plateau area known as the Atherton Tablelands welcomes tourists with a wide variety of habitats and activities. This hidden gem in Australia is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts and environment lovers since it has several jungles, waterfalls, and lakes.
The Curtain Fig Tree is a massive fig tree with a web of roots and branches that resembles a curtain of vines. It’s one of the Atherton Tablelands’ most well-known landmarks. Anyone traveling to the area should make time to see this tree, which is a favorite location for picnics and photos for locals and travelers alike.
The Atherton Tablelands is an excellent destination for sightseeing and/or birdwatching since many uncommon and exotic species call this area home. Mountain bikers also enjoy this region because of the network of paths that meander through the jungle and along the beaches of lakes.
The Atherton Tablelands is an all-around stunning and interesting place that is ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visit this hidden gem in Australia if you want to unwind and enjoy the view or get active and explore the great outdoors.
7. The Great Ocean Road
Victoria, Australia’s Great Ocean Road is a breathtaking coastal route. The route offers spectacular views of the ocean and the surroundings as it meanders down the southern coast of the state, passing through several small villages and national parks.
The Twelve Apostles is a group of imposing limestone stacks that protrude from the ocean. It’s one of the Great Ocean Road’s most well-known sights. Several hiking routes give expansive views of the coastline and lead to The Twelve Apostles, a popular location for sightseeing and photos.
The Loch Ard Gorge, a stunning coastal valley with a multitude of waterfalls and swimming holes, is another must-visit location along the Great Ocean Road. The gorge is a well-liked location for swimming and picnics and is a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy the view.
There are other little towns and national parks worth visiting along the Great Ocean Road in addition to the sights and natural wonders. The Great Otway National Park, which has a multitude of hiking routes and waterfalls, as well as the lovely communities of Lorne and Apollo Bay are among examples.
Anyone traveling to Victoria must take the Great Ocean Road. The Great Ocean Road is full of Australia hidden gems, so it’s perfect whether you want to unwind and enjoy the beauty or get active and explore the great outdoors.
8. The Pinnacles
The Pinnacles are a genuinely one-of-a-kind and otherworldly location in Western Australia. These massive limestone pillars rise from the desert, forming a scenery unlike any other in the world. The Pinnacles are thought to be the remains of ancient coastal dunes that were worn by the weather over millions of years.
The Pinnacles are one of the best Australia hidden gems for sightseeing and photography, and they can be reached by a multitude of hiking paths that weave across the arid environment. Visitors can come up close to the pillars and enjoy the spectacular views of the surrounding area from the pathways.
Aside from the Pinnacles, the area is home to a variety of other attractions and monuments, such as Nambung National Park and the town of Cervantes. The national park is ideal for bushwalking and animal viewing, and the town provides a variety of lodging and food alternatives for guests.
The Pinnacles are an absolute must-see for anybody visiting Western Australia. Whether you’re seeking adventure or just want to relax and enjoy the scenery, this is the place to be.
9. The Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is a world-famous tourist site off the coast of Queensland. While not exactly a hidden gem in Australia, the Great Barrier Reef is a large and diversified environment that is home to many kinds of plants and animals and provides tourists with a variety of activities and experiences.
The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s biggest coral reef system, spanning over 2,000 kilometers along Australia’s northeastern coast. It is home to an astonishing variety of marine life, including over 1,500 different kinds of fish, 400 different types of coral, and a variety of other creatures such as dolphins, whales, and sea turtles.
Snorkeling or diving, which allows tourists to get up and personal with the coral and aquatic life, is one of the most popular activities on the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkeling and diving tours are available from a variety of operators, ranging from half-day excursions to multi-day live-aboard adventures.
The Great Barrier Reef is a popular place for whale watching in addition to snorkeling and diving. The reef is home to several whale species, including humpback whales, which may be seen from the beach or on a guided excursion.
As you can see, the Great Barrier Reef is a must-see location for anybody interested in marine life or simply wanting to appreciate the natural world’s beauty and diversity. The Great Barrier Reef is unlike any other area on the planet, with its gorgeous coral, unusual creatures, and strange environment.
10. The Tarkine
The Tarkine area of Tasmania is genuinely one of the wildest and most inaccessible Australia hidden gems. A variety of uncommon and endangered animals live in this wide and rocky region, including the Tasmanian Devil, the spotted-tailed quoll, and the wedge-tailed eagle. It also has a variety of Aboriginal cultural sites, including thousands of years of rock art and relics.
Hiking in the Tarkine wilderness is one of the greatest ways to discover the Tarkine. A multitude of routes crosses the region’s jungles, mountains, and valleys, providing stunning views of the surrounding scenery. The complexity of these paths ranges from short and moderate walks to multi-day backpacking trips, and they are appropriate for people of all fitness levels.
Aside from hiking, the Tarkine is an ideal Australia hidden gem for various outdoor activities like birdwatching, mountain biking, and camping. There are a variety of campsites across the region, as well as eco-lodges and other guest accommodations.
Australia is a huge and diversified country with a great range of landscapes and attractions that many visitors overlook. There are innumerable hidden jewels to uncover in this great continent, from the harsh and isolated Kimberley area to the majestic and otherworldly Great Barrier Reef.
While the Sydney Opera House and the Great Barrier Reef are both famous and well-known attractions, there are many more lesser-known but great places to visit. There is something for everyone in Australia, whether you want to explore the great outdoors, find the supernatural, or simply drink up the local culture and history.
So, why not take the path less traveled and explore your own hidden jewels in this stunning and diverse country? Whether you’re searching for adventure or just want to relax and take in the sights and sounds, Australia’s hidden jewels provide something for everyone. Don’t pass up this fantastic opportunity to visit some of the country’s lesser-known but still spectacular places.
Mirela Letailleur is a Romanian travel blogger living in the South of France. She writes on The Travel Bunny travel blog about affordable travel in Europe, creator of unique free travel guides, local travel expert. Problem solver. Wannabe coffee guru.
To uncover more Australia hidden gems, try reading
The ideal time to visit Australia
Travel adventures you can’t turn down
The 6 best destinations to travel alone