Aus wa rottnest island seal swim credit Tourism Western Australia
Aus victoria Silver Spoon Estate winery
Aus qld bettys beach whitsundays
aus qld daintree rainforest
Aus wa rottnest island seal swim credit Tourism Western Australia
Aus victoria Silver Spoon Estate winery
Aus qld bettys beach whitsundays
aus qld daintree rainforest
Enjoy a bespoke holiday in a uniquely local way

Top sights to visit

With so many spectacular places to visit in Australia, it may be hard to decide where to visit. Of course, there are popular attractions such as the Sydney Opera House, Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef. But there is so much more to explore in this beautiful country: From unique nature encounters, historical sites, quirky islands and much more.

Which sites should you visit in Australia?

Have close encounters with Australian wildlife
© Tourism Australia
Discover unique sights, away from the mainstream
© Tourism Western Australia

Phillip Island

Say G’day to a parade of Fairy penguins on Phillip Island. Located 140 kilometres southeast of Melbourne, this little Australian island is a marine playground. Welcome to Victoria’s first surfing reserve, a place where you can find some of the best breaks in the country.

Join the iconic Penguin Parade

Watch in awe as little penguins surf through the waves after a day of fishing. As they reach the shore, they’ll wait for their mates and together in a large group slowly waddle back to their burrows. Admire seals at Seal Rock, home to over 35,000 Fur seals, the biggest colony found in Australia. Wander along wooden boardwalks and spot koalas in the eucalyptus trees.

Say G'day to penguins
Spot seals!

Port Arthur

Are you a history buff? Discover a part of Australia's convict history. Located approximately 97 kilometres southeast of Hobart, you will find a quaint town. Step back in time and visit the World Heritage Listed, Port Arthur Historic Site. A place where you can find 11 remnant penal sites, built by the British Empire. Or admire the natural attractions found in the area such as stunning coastal landscapes and towering cliffs.

Port Arthur Historic Site
Learn more about Australia's convict history
© Alastair Bett
A brown historical building set amongst green trees
Discover the World Heritage Listed, Port Arthur Historic Site
© Pete Harmsen

Rottnest Island

From the moment you arrive, you feel like you're in another world, Rottnest Island is one-of-a-kind. A ferry will take you from Perth to Rottnest Island, an island that was separated from the mainland by rising sea levels some seven thousand years ago. The island is formed from limestone cliffs with a thin layer of sand, on which unique and rare species of plants grow.

Say G'day to quokkas!

Explore unspoilt beaches and coves and take a walk through the main settlement, passing colonial houses that date back to the 1800s. The island owes its name - which literally means 'rat's nest' - to Dutch explorer Willem de Vlamingh. He mistook the quokkas (small kangaroos) for rats.

An outdoor playground

Rottnest Island is a paradise for divers, as the island is surrounded by the Limestone Coral Reef, a reef that was formed more than 100,000 years ago. More than 135 tropical fish species live here. There are also more than 13 shipwrecks off the coast. You can participate in various snorkelling and diving trips, and also surf at Strickland Bay.

Be enchanted by the natural beauty of Rottnest Island
© Tourism Western Australia
Have a close encounter with quokkas
© Tourism Western Australia

Discover more

One of the world's greatest natural wonders

The Great Barrier Reef

Be mesmerised by 600 types of coral, over 2900 individual reefs, and 900 tropical islands. A wonderland that… read more

Discover the wonders of

Australia

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Discover the highlights of Australia

The world's largest island and smallest continent

States and Territories

Australia is a vast and diverse land of six states and two territories. From the sun-kissed beaches and vibrant… read more

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Cities

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Why book with us?

  • A well-designed holiday, just for you
  • Small-scale accommodations run by friendly local hosts
  • Carefully recommended activities based on your interests
  • A travel tempo and driving distances that match your needs
  • Ingrained sustainability in all facets of your holiday
  • 30 years of experience in travel to Australia

Let's design your holiday together

We'll take the time to get to know you to match your fully bespoke holiday with your pace, your interests, and anything you desire. Combined with first-hand, local knowledge, you'll receive a mapped out itinerary from us - but the process isn't done until you are 100% satisfied. We take care of every detail, so you can focus on relaxing, rejuvenating and reconnecting with yourself and the world around you. Get in touch to get started now.

Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?

Discover a world beyond ordinary

At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.