So, you missed out on the beach hopping, Aperol-spritzing of Euro summer, and are keen to defrost somewhere yourself. Or, you joined the migration, and are now back and already thinking about your next getaway — somewhere warm, of course.
Luckily, Australia’s brimming with destinations featuring warm winters — and by that, we mean comfortable beach weather.
Even better? Those in ACT, New South Wales and South Australia can take advantage of the public holiday coming up and book to head for a long weekend. In those three states and territory, Labour Day falls on Monday, October 3 this year — Victorians, you’ll sadly have to wait until November, for the Melbourne Cup public holiday.
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Where to go? Ahead, a few of our favourite destinations for warming ourselves up in winter or spring — no passport or VISA needed.
Noosa, Queensland
Average winter temperature: 21°C
Noosa is known for its good food (Sails is best-known), the sprawling homes along its snaking Noosa River and the blue-green water of its quality surf. Spend your days here snorkelling, swimming or walking its coastal treks, before heading freshening up for boutique shopping, followed by dinner and drinks on Hastings Street. Stay at Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort or, for a trendy boutique hotel, Bounce Noosa.
Whitsundays, Queensland
Average winter temperature: 22°C
Despite convenient daily flights into the Whitsunday Coast (Proserpine) and Great Barrier Reef (Hamilton Island) airports, the Whitsundays feel remote — and worlds away from city life. Its most iconic scene is of Hill Inlet, with its 50 shades of swirling blue, punctuated by white sand. Book an overnight sailing trip or splash out on a five-star stay at Qualia, InterContinental Hayman Island or Beach Club.
Broome, Western Australia
Average winter temperature: 30°C
Known as Rubibi to the local Yawuru people, Broome is a coastal town in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. It was once the largest pearling town, and today has a rich history and a multi-cultural feel. Swim with whale sharks at nearby Ningaloo Reef, or hop on a camel at sunset for a ride along Cable Beach. Rest your head at Habitat Resort Broome or Kimberley Sands Resort.
Port Douglas, Queensland
Average winter temperature: 27°C
An hour’s drive from Cairns, Port Douglas is a great base for exploring the Daintree Rainforest, Great Barrier Reef, or as a destination in itself. Home to Four Mile Beach, dozens of cafés and restaurants, and self-contained resorts, choose from Mantra PortSea Port Douglas, Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas and Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort.
Darwin, Northern Territory
Average winter temperature: 32°C
Darwin’s dry season runs May to October, so winter really is the perfect time to visit. It’s also when local-favourite Mindil Beach Sunset Markets are on Thursdays and Sundays. Explore Litchfield National Park in the day, or for an authentic Indigenous experience, take a day trip to the Tiwi Islands, a 2.5-hour ride away. At night, hop on a cruise or stroll the Darwin Waterfront Precinct.
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