There really isn’t anything that comes close to matching an iconic Aussie summer. With endless sunny days and blue skies, coupled with a bounty of summer holiday hot spots, we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a destination. Whether you’re seeking some sand between your toes at Australia’s Best Beaches or keen to explore the best bars on offer in one of our major cities, we have put together a comprehensive guide to eight sizzling spots for your hottest Aussie summer holiday yet.

Byron Bay

Where else to start but the infamous Byron Bay. Still delivering ultimate summer chill vibes in spades, Byron Bay never disappoints. Sparking major attention in recent years for being a hideaway for the stars, this coastal gem is the perfect place to relax, catch some rays, and swim in crystal clear waters. But we reckon there’s much more on offer than sunbaking and smoothies. There’s a long list of vibrant weekly markets to browse, Cape Byron Lighthouse to explore and doses of nature like the Killen and Minyon Falls to take in nearby. If you’re feeling active, hike a trail on the outskirts of Byron or hop in a kayak and try your chances at spotting a dolphin.

Once you’ve fallen deeply and madly in love with Byron, stop by the local First National Real Estate office and ponder your options.

Townsville and Magnetic Island

Further along our Eastern seaboard and one of the main gateways to the world’s largest coral reef system are Townsville and Magnetic Island. This is the perfect destination for those who want to spend their holidays immersed in natural beauty.

Townsville provides a fantastic base for exploring the nearby Great Barrier Reef, the UNESCO-listed Wet Tropics of Queensland and the wide open spaces of the great Aussie Outback. While you’re in the neighbourhood, we recommend adding these spots to your itinerary:

• The Strand – a popular palm-tree-lined waterfront promenade replete with beautiful views, safe swimming spots, parks, picnic areas, eateries, and bars.
• Castle Hill – Townsville’s very unique centrepiece is a majestic pink granite monolith. Adorned with several walking tracks, make your way to the top and be rewarded with panoramic 360-degree views.
• Billabong Sanctuary – from koala selfies to kangaroo feeding and holding bay crocs, Townsville’s Billabong Sanctuary is one of Australia’s most interactive wildlife parks, making it great fun for young and old.

Magnetic Island is just a short ferry ride from Townsville – a must-visit for beach and nature lovers. With over 70% of the Island covered in protected national parks, there are 36 kilometres of walking tracks, a bounty of idyllic beaches, and plenty of character-filled villages to explore. While you’re there, be sure to visit:

• Horseshoe Bay – relax on the pristine sandy beach or explore the shores by kayak, SUP, or jet ski. Once you’re tuckered out, dine with a view at one of the many beachside eateries.
• The Forts Walk – natural beauty aside, Magnetic Island is also rich in WWII history. The Forts Walk lets you take in both as you wind through the National Park, spotting koalas alongside World War II relics.

Finding it hard to leave paradise? Visit the local First National Real Estate office in Townsville and chat about how you could make your stay a little more permanent.

The Barossa Valley

Whether you’re seeking wine, culinary delights or a taste of Europe, Barossa could just be the answer. With over 80 cellar doors, numerous farmer’s markets to visit and some of Australia’s best spots to dine amongst the vines, we guarantee you’ll leave satiated. While in the area, download The Epicurean Way road trip map and take your tastebuds on Australia’s great food and drink road trip (in reverse) en route to Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement, Hahndorf. With German history dating back to 1838, the town is still alive with charming cafes serving traditional bienenstich kuchen (or bee sting cake), German-style pubs and artisan stores selling handmade wares and treats.

If you find yourself wishing you could enjoy the epicurean delights of the Barossa year-round, add one more stop to your road trip!

Sunshine Coast

If you’re a serious sun seeker, you simply can’t go past the Sunshine Coast. With over 100km of stunning coastline bordered by lush hinterland hills, you’ll be greeted with clear blue skies, crystal clear waters and pristine sandy beaches at every turn. But it’s not all sun-kissed glows and sand between your toes; the Sunshine Coast is also known as Queensland’s Sunshine Pantry – thanks to its volcanically rich terrain and favourable climate. The region is home to over 900 producers and makers serving paddock-to-plate dining, sumptuous fresh produce, and the opportunity to get involved in bucket-list-worthy experiences. Whether it’s a unique farm stay, visits to – and camel cuddles at – the world’s only certified organic camel dairy farm or one of the many fabulous cooking schools.

If your visit to the Sunny Coast has you wishing you could linger a little longer, sandy barefoot visitors are welcome at one of the many First National Real Estate offices peppered along the coast. Our experts can help you find the ultimate holiday home, investment property or all-year-round summer abode.

Hobart

The homely capital of Tasmania comes alive across the summer months, with Tasmania’s Taste of Summer in full swing on Hobart’s waterfront from the 27th of December to the 6th of January. Some of Australia’s best markets are on offer year-round, and a unique mix of history, nature and culture is ready to explore without breaking the bank. A visit to Hobart wouldn’t be complete without heading to:

• Cascade Brewery – jump on a tour of Australia’s oldest brewery, drink in the fascinating history, learn how the beer is made, and taste a drop too!
• Mount Wellington – visible all over town, Mount Wellington (or kunanyi) is literally unmissable. Located in an 18,000-hectare wilderness reserve, you’ve got the pick of leisurely family strolls or challenging hikes to the peak.
• MONA – located just up the river, board the ferry, set sail for the Museum of Old and New Art, and prepare to have all your opinions of art flipped on their head. MONA hosts the summer festival Mona Forma each January – a unique collision of art, music and “other stuff.” If you want to splash out, check out the list of really fancy stuff to do at MONA.

If Hobart’s starting to feel like home (or it’s pulling you to invest), the Hobart First National Real Estate team are local experts. Pop into the office and talk about your next move.

Perth

The sunniest capital in Australia has some serious summer pulling power! With to-die-for weather, ridiculously beautiful best beaches, cute quokkas on Rottnest, and uber cool towns like Freemantle to explore – you might never want to leave. Start on the mainland, head to pretty as a picture Cottesloe Beach for swimming, snorkelling, surfing and sunsets, then spend the next few days roaming around Freemantle and beyond. Catch the ferry from Freemantle to the car-free conservation reserve, Rottnest Island and mingle with our happiest local, the quokka. Kids will love getting up close and personal, and nothing quite beats a selfie with this smiley marsupial. Quokka’s aside, Rottnest is awash with natural beauty, spectacular snorkelling, and supremely fresh seafood ready to be sampled.

Love it so much you want to live it? With numerous local offices across Perth, First National Real Estate knows the region inside and out. Stop by the office and find out how to make Perth your new home or discuss investment options.

Darwin

Located at the top end of our great nation, the Mary River National Park and Litchfield National Park are Northern Territory gems that are deserving destinations for your summer getaway. With bountiful wildlife, cascading clear waterfalls, lush wetlands, beautiful walks and epic swimming holes, this area is dripping in natural beauty that’s yours to absorb. Both parks are only a few hours away from Darwin, making them a perfect addition (or highlight) to a Darwin stay.

While in Darwin’s centre, head to the renowned Mindil Beach Sunset Market, walk the Esplanade to Doctor’s Gully to hand-feed hundreds of fish and seek out hidden contemporary art galleries featuring highly collectable Aboriginal artworks. If Darwin’s rich culture, scenery and energy are calling you, the local experts at First National Real Estate O’Donoghues will guide you with your move.

Bondi

There’s something about Sydney that screams summer, and there’s no more iconic place to spend a Sydney summer than Bondi Beach. This famous stretch is known for sand, surf, swimming, and some very stylish sauntering. At its southern end is perhaps the most photographed pool in the world – Icebergs. Perched on rocks, surf crashes into the ocean-fed pool against a stunning Pacific Ocean backdrop. It comes replete with a restaurant – Icebergs dining room and bar –the perfect spot to take in the sunset cocktail in hand or indulge in some fresh seafood. For something, a little more low-key, head to the Bondi Markets (weekends only) and savour some local eats alongside souvenirs and crafts.

Walk it all off with the 6-kilometre Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk – an absolute must-do.

The beauty of Bondi is hard to resist. If you find yourself swept up in its current, head into the First National Real Estate Bondi Junction office and talk about how you could make it your home.

Holiday or stay, make it a summer to remember

From wildlife to vibrant cities and pristine natural wonders, finding your dream holiday on your doorstep is easy. And if you fall in love with the destination amongst your exploring and want a more permanent base (as a holiday home or investment), connect with your local First National Real Estate office. With experts across every corner of Australia, you’ll benefit from years of local knowledge, insight, and experience.

DISCLAIMER
The following advice is of a general nature only and intended as a broad guide. The advice should not be regarded as legal, financial, or real estate advice. You should make your own inquiries and obtain independent professional advice tailored to your specific circumstances before making any legal, financial, or real estate decisions. Click here for full Terms of Use.