There’s so much to experience in Australia that doesn’t come with a price tag. With the rising cost of summer activities and attractions, finding no-cost entertainment is more important than ever. Whether it’s nature, history, or culture you’re after, here’s a selection of the best free things to do across Australia.
Great Ocean Road: Drive this iconic coastal route with its breathtaking ocean views, limestone cliffs, and famous stops like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. It’s a scenic masterpiece you can enjoy from the comfort of your car.
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria (Melbourne): Wander through these expansive gardens, home to over 8,500 species of plants. The gardens also feature lakes and picturesque walking trails, making it a perfect spot for relaxation.
State Library Victoria (Melbourne): Melbourne’s architectural marvel, this library offers gallery spaces, peaceful reading rooms, and an impressive collection of historical artefacts. The stunning La Trobe Reading Room is a highlight.
Find parks to stay at in Victoria
Blue Mountains National Park: Explore the Blue Mountains, where you’ll find the famous Three Sisters rock formation, lush walking trails, and panoramic viewpoints like Echo Point.
Hyams Beach (Jervis Bay): Known for its brilliant white sands, Hyams Beach is the perfect spot for a seaside day. Go for a beach stroll or look out for dolphins along the shoreline.
Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk (Sydney): This 6-kilometre coastal trail takes you past stunning cliffs, beaches, and ocean views. It’s an iconic Sydney walk for locals and tourists alike.
The Rocks (Sydney): Sydney’s historic quarter, The Rocks, features cobblestone streets, weekend markets, and free guided walking tours that delve into Australia’s colonial past.
Royal Botanic Garden Sydney: Set against the iconic backdrop of Sydney Harbour, these gardens are a lush escape in the city. Wander through native flora, enjoy harbour views, and visit historic sites like Mrs Macquarie’s Chair.
Find parks to stay at in New South Wales
South Bank Parklands (Brisbane): Brisbane’s cultural and social heart offers great summer activities like the man-made Streets Beach, riverside promenades, and public art installations.
Springbrook National Park (Gold Coast Hinterland): Known for its rainforests and waterfalls, Springbrook is ideal for bushwalks and nature lovers. Head to Purling Brook Falls for a memorable view.
Airlie Beach Lagoon (Whitsundays): This lagoon overlooking the Coral Sea is perfect for a swim, with BBQ facilities and plenty of open space for a relaxed day out.
Noosa National Park (Sunshine Coast): Take a coastal trail to spot koalas, enjoy the pristine beaches, and soak up the scenic beauty of one of Queensland’s most loved national parks.
Find parks to stay at in Queensland
Mount Gambier’s Blue Lake: This volcanic crater lake is known for its vivid blue waters during summer. Stroll along the paths surrounding the lake for excellent viewpoints and photo opportunities.
Adelaide Botanic Garden: A beautifully landscaped space with highlights like the Palm House, rose garden, and the Bicentennial Conservatory. It’s a peaceful retreat in the city centre.
Glenelg Beach (Adelaide): This popular beach destination offers sandy shores and a historic jetty. Enjoy a stroll or relax with a picnic as you take in the coastal views.
Find parks to stay at in South Australia
Kings Park and Botanic Garden (Perth): One of the world’s largest inner-city parks, Kings Park boasts incredible city views, walking trails, and native flora. Don’t miss the DNA Tower or the War Memorial for a full experience.
Rottnest Island: Known for its adorable quokkas, Rottnest Island is a scenic wonderland. While getting there involves a ferry cost, once on the island, you can enjoy cycling, swimming, and beach walks for free.
The Pinnacles (Nambung National Park): Wander among these unique limestone pillars that rise from the sands, a striking and surreal experience in Western Australia’s outback.
Elizabeth Quay (Perth): This waterfront precinct offers public art, walking paths, and views of the Swan River and city skyline. It’s a great place to relax and soak up Perth’s riverside vibe.
Find parks to stay at in Western Australia
Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens (Hobart): Tasmania’s oldest botanical gardens, these grounds showcase a diverse collection of plants. Highlights include the Japanese Garden and the Subantarctic Plant House.
Cataract Gorge (Launceston): This natural wonder just minutes from Launceston’s city centre offers walking trails, suspension bridges, and scenic views along the South Esk River.
Find parks to stay at in Tasmania
Mindil Beach (Darwin): Famous for its sunsets, Mindil Beach is a great place to end the day with a view. The beachside markets are open during the dry season, offering local crafts and food stalls.
Fannie Bay Gaol (Darwin): One of Darwin’s most historic sites, this gaol dates back to the 1880s. Learn about the gaol’s role in Northern Territory history and explore its cells and gallows.
Kakadu National Park (Arnhem Land): While the full experience of Kakadu involves park entry fees, certain lookouts and trails are free to access. Discover rock art at Nourlangie or take in the views from Ubirr Lookout.
Find parks to stay at in the Northern Territory
There are endless adventures in Australia, and many of them are free. From the spectacular coastal roads and lush parks of Victoria to the tropical wonders of Queensland and the breathtaking landscapes in the Northern Territory, this guide is just a start. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or city explorer, you’ll find no-cost ways to enjoy Australia’s rich landscapes and cultural offerings.
Recent Post:
Categories:
Tags:
Key Industry Partners
