Best Winter Holidays to Book in 2025

Category: Inspiration News Date: 30 Apr 2025

Feature Image— Cradle Mountain Credit: Tourism Australia

The time to plan your 2025 winter holiday is now—and what better way to enjoy the cooler months than by exploring Australia’s diverse landscapes? Whether you’re craving red desert horizons, snowy mountain trails, ocean breezes, or a quiet riverside recharge, there’s a perfect winter escape waiting for you in every corner of the country.

So, swap the hustle and bustle for starry skies, crisp air, and wide-open spaces. Here’s your guide to incredible winter escapes across Australia:

An Outback Escape

Winter is the ideal time to explore the outback thanks to cooler, more manageable temperatures and dry, clear days. With fewer flies and less extreme heat, you can fully enjoy the epic landscapes, hikes, and rich cultural experiences.

Where to Go:

Northern Territory: Uluru & Kata Tjuta – With cooler temps and dry skies, winter is the best time to explore the sacred landscapes of Uluru and the Valley of the Winds. Explore camping near Uluru.

Western Australia: Karijini National Park – Wander through ancient gorges, waterfalls and red cliffs in the Pilbara region, where winter brings mild, pleasant weather. Find places to stay near Karijini.

South Australia: Flinders Ranges – Marvel at the rich ochre colours, rugged peaks and abundant wildlife on a scenic winter road trip. Camp at the Flinders Ranges.

Queensland: Outback QLD (Winton or Longreach) – Learn about dinosaurs, bush history, and enjoy warm inland hospitality. Explore camping in Outback QLD.

New South Wales: Broken Hill – This iconic outback town shines in winter with art galleries, film history and desert sunsets. Plan a trip to Broken Hill.

Victoria: Mildura & Mungo National Park – Discover ancient landscapes and rich Indigenous history. Book your stay in Mildura.

Tasmania: Central Highlands – Remote, stark and dramatic—Tasmania’s inland delivers a true winter wilderness feel. Explore the Central Highlands.

A Mountain Getaway

Mountain regions come alive in winter with cool, crisp air, misty trails, and scenic lookouts. Whether you’re chasing snow or just a peaceful escape surrounded by nature, it’s the perfect season for fresh-air hikes, cosy cabins, and warming up by a fire after a day outdoors.

The Blue Mountains Credit: Tourism Australia

New South Wales: Blue Mountains – Think crisp mountain air, heritage villages, and even the occasional snowfall. Discover accommodation near the Blue Mountains.

Victoria: Mount Hotham or Falls Creek – Hit the slopes or simply cosy up in a cabin overlooking the snow-covered High Country. Book your stay in the High Country

Tasmania: Cradle Mountain – Hike among snow-dusted peaks, spot wombats and unwind by a roaring fire. Explore camping around Cradle Mountain.

Queensland: Bunya Mountains – Escape the tropics and find cool temps, walking tracks and wallabies galore. Camp near the Bunya Mountains.

South Australia: Mount Lofty Ranges – Just outside Adelaide, with scenic drives, cellar doors and crisp winter walks. Stay in the Adelaide Hills.

Western Australia: Stirling Ranges – Dramatic peaks, misty mornings and rare wildflowers even in the cooler months. Find places to stay near the Stirling Ranges.

Northern Territory: MacDonnell Ranges – Not snowy, but perfect hiking weather and epic sunrise views near Alice Springs. Book your Red Centre stay.

A Seaside Adventure

Winter camping at the coast means peaceful beaches, sunny days without the heatwaves, and a chance to spot whales on their migration. It’s a quieter, more relaxed way to enjoy Australia’s spectacular shorelines.

Jervis Bay, Shoalhaven Credit: Tourism Australia

Western Australia: Ningaloo Reef – Swim with whale sharks and enjoy mild, dry winter days in Exmouth. Camp near Ningaloo Reef.

Queensland: 1770 & Agnes Water – Located along the Southern Great Barrier Reef, this coastal duo offers a laid-back beach vibe, mild temperatures, and access to reef tours—perfect for a winter escape. Book your Sunshine Coast stay.

New South Wales: Jervis Bay – White sands, bushwalks and possible whale sightings along the coast. Explore camping in Jervis Bay.

South Australia: Robe & the Limestone Coast – Coastal charm, seafood delights, and brisk beach strolls. Find places to stay in Robe.

Victoria: Great Ocean Road – Beat the summer crowds and enjoy rugged cliffs and moody seascapes. Discover Great Ocean Road camping.

Tasmania: Bay of Fires – The orange-tinged boulders and peaceful coves are even more serene in winter. Stay along the Bay of Fires.

Northern Territory: Cullen Bay, Darwin – Warm evenings, waterfront dining and dry season sunsets. Book your Darwin holiday park.

An Island Retreat

Islands offer an ideal winter escape with mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and stunning scenery all to yourself. Whether tropical or rugged, island life is perfect for recharging without the summer crowds.

Kangaroo Island Credit: Tourism Australia

Queensland: Magnetic Island – Tropical vibes without the summer humidity; perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting. Explore Magnetic Island escapes.

Tasmania: Bruny Island – Rugged beauty, gourmet produce, and windswept coastal walks. Stay near Bruny Island.

Western Australia: Rottnest Island – Quokkas, empty beaches and blue skies without the heat. Book camping at Rottnest Island.

South Australia: Kangaroo Island – Wildlife, wineries, and stunning landscapes that shine in the off-peak season. Plan your Kangaroo Island adventure.

Northern Territory: Tiwi Islands – Cultural immersion and stunning island scenery. Learn more about the Tiwi Islands.

New South Wales: Island Leisure Village – While not technically an island, this peaceful lakeside retreat in Port Stephens offers the same feeling of calm seclusion and natural beauty. Surrounded by bushland, tranquil water views, and the occasional king tide that (almost) makes it a real island. Explore Island Leisure Village.

Victoria: Phillip Island – Watch penguins return ashore and explore rugged cliffs with fewer crowds. Plan your visit to Phillip Island.

A Riverside Recharge

Winter mornings by the river are tranquil, with fog rising off the water and the smell of campfire in the air. It’s the season for slow-paced stays, nature walks, and reconnecting with the outdoors in comfort.

Echuca, Murray Region Credit: Tourism Australia

Victoria: Murray River (Echuca or Mildura) – Houseboat holidays, winery trails and historic river towns. Camp along the Murray River.

New South Wales: Clarence River (Grafton) – Big skies, river fishing and charming regional towns. Explore the Clarence River region.

South Australia: Murray Riverlands (Renmark to Mannum) – Kayak at sunrise and watch the pelicans glide. Stay along the SA Riverland.

Queensland: Noosa River – Paddle, picnic and enjoy the quieter winter side of the Sunshine Coast. Book a campsite near Noosa.

Western Australia: Blackwood River (Bridgetown) – Winter mist, forested banks and a true back-to-nature escape. Discover camping near Bridgetown.

Tasmania: Huon River – Apple orchards, peaceful retreats and pristine waterside views. Explore camping near the Huon Valley.

Northern Territory: Katherine River – Cruise the gorges and soak in hot springs right by the riverbank. Camp in Katherine.