Australia has evolved from the era of aboriginal legends where spirits and fairies gathered at its coral reefs and rainforests, it is now a dream destination. It may be the smallest continent of the world on the map but it is the largest island because size wise it is equivalent to the United States.
Australia is the one perfect destination for those looking to have some fun adventures. In fact, you don’t necessarily have to be an athlete to relish the wide range of recreational and exciting activities that this destination offers. From four-wheel-driving on the coastline to steering cattle while riding a horse and amazing water sports the iconic Australia has so much to offer that you will run out of time on your holidays but activities won’t end.
Varying levels of outdoor activities are offered in almost every destination in Australia that can enjoyed by the entire family including young kids. No matter if you are a local or a tourist holidaying here, Australia remains equally inviting for all the adventure lovers. Let’s explore how versatile Australia really is in the context of outdoor activities.
1. Hiking
In Australia, Hiking is called bushwalking and is considered one of the best ways to enjoy the scenic beauty of the country. When in Sydney, you must checkout the Blue Mountains and the Lamington National Park, which can be found at about 90min drive away from the Gold Coast. If you are an experienced hiker, then the Larapinta trail is perfect for a rewarding explorative experience. This trail is stretched over 155miles and encompasses the desert of the outback. If you are into rainforests and tropics, then head to the Whitsunday Island where you will find abundant hiking trails. Kakadu is yet another naturally pleasing environment for hiking purposes. You can enjoy hiking in Australia throughout the year.
2. Snorkelling and scuba diving
Australia is an ideal location for snorkelling and scuba diving firstly because it features wide range of coral reefs and crystal clear beaches, and secondly, the facilities are top-notch and up-to-the-mark. You will find some of the most sought-after and award winning snorkelling and scuba diving spots of the world in Australia. The Great Barrier Reef and all the 74 Whitsunday Islands located around the Outer Reef feature vast range of inviting, colorful coral gardens. These destinations are home to most exotic marine wealth as well. Apart from the abovementioned world famous locations, Coral Sea’s Predator’s Playground is also worth visiting where you can view sharks feeding and have fun at the Yongala Shipwreck. Another popular destination for diving is Heron Island. However, Australia has many more amazing destinations for snorkelling and scuba diving because majority of its beaches are well-maintained, picturesque and clean.
3. Skydiving
Nothing can beat the excitement and thrill that one experiences while jumping out of the plane and flying over the sky sans barrier. The feeling that you are flying like a bird is definitely worth a try because it is totally unmatched and unparalleled to any other outdoor activity. Australia has full-fledged skydiving centers where you will find literally all world-class facilities to help you enjoy thoroughly satisfying skydiving experience. Not just that you get to skydive but the skydiving institutes record awesome footages while you jump out of the plane so that you could relive the amazing experience over and over again. In this regard, SkyDive is the best team to trust since it has strong presence at all key locations in Australia from New South Wales and Victoria to Queensland and Western Australia. Enjoy the beautiful panoramic views of the spectacular beaches, city and bush land through skydiving.
4. Camping
Camping at Cockatoo Island is probably on the to-do-list of every tourist in Australia. The island is situated in the center of the Sydney Harbor and is a marvelous site to visit for camping. Historical accounts reveal that Cockatoo Island used to be the place where convicts were held whereas it is also said that during World War II the place was used to repair ships. Arrive at the island just before it is dusk and brace yourself for a somewhat eerie yet utterly enjoyable experience of camping. You will have to take a ferry to reach the camping site. Here you can view historical remains as well like the convict cells and old ships and buildings repairing machinery. You can also enjoy beautiful views of the Sydney Harbor and the iconic Harbor Bridge.
Another popular spot for camping is the Wycliffe Well, which is also called the UFO capitol of Australia. The place has a fascinating background story too, according to which the site is associated with a number of UFO sightings. The UFOs reportedly started visiting Wycliffe Well during the World War II when the servicemen started witnessing unidentified objects upon the sky at night. The record of these unusual sightings was kept by the servicemen in an old binder book, which somehow became public and the world came to know about the uniqueness of this place. Now Wycliffe Well has been transformed into an alien-themes holiday park and the park’s brochure claims that “UFO sightings are so common, that if you stayed up all night looking, you would be considered unlucky not to see anything, rather than lucky to see something.” The park also has a bar where you will find widest range of beer in Australia.
