8 Outdoor Adventures to Try in Australia

Australia has a huge amount of beaches that are perfect for snorkeling, and some of the reefs are among the best on the world. The Great Barrier Reef in Northern QLD, is the largest coral reef in the world, and Ningaloo Reef in WA is also impressive. Even if you aren’t able to travel that far afield, there are sure to be plenty of beaches that are suitable closer to your city. In Sydney, snorkeling hotspots include Botany Bay and Shelly Beach, and in South Australia, Whyalla and the Yorke Peninsula are popular. 


Depending on your location, aim to spot a clown fish like in Finding Nemo, and see if you are lucky enough to swim alongside a turtle. Be careful when in the water though -- coral is protected, and easily damaged if it is stood on or knocked.


Snorkelling kits are inexpensive to buy, and are provided in tours around the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef. If you are visiting Northern Queensland in summer, it is also advisable to wear stinger suits, in order to protect you from Irukandji jellyfish. Most tour companies will have stinger suits on board, which can be hired for around $6.


Our Pick: Shangri-La Hotel, the Marina for access to the Great Barrier Reef

Hiking is a fantastic form of exercise, and allows you to get much closer to native wildlife and vegetation. There are over 500 National Parks throughout the country, and it’s almost certain that one of them will have a walk to suit your fitness level. Most National Parks have a small entry fee that is charged per vehicle; however this fee is usually just to fund car park maintenance, fences, and signs.


Hikes can range from short walks up to a lookout to multi-day treks that are more strenuous and require your own camping equipment. Be realistic about your fitness level and experience so you don’t overdo it, and be sure to let someone know where you are planning to walk and when you expect to be home. It is safest to travel with at least one other person if you are attempting a longer trek, and ensure you pack a small first aid kit in case of emergencies.  


Our Pick: Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney for a short distance to National Parks

Make the most of winter and hit the slopes! Kosciuszko National Park is the mecca of skiing and snowboarding on the mainland, and locations in Tasmania, such as Ben Lomond and Mount Lawson, also provide an opportunity to learn the popular winter sports. Equipment can be hired, including suitable jackets and pants, and there are a variety of instructors for every level.


Skiing season runs from June to September. Make the most of a weekend and head to Thredbo or Perisher for a few days. Cabins can be rented nearby, and there are plenty of hotels if you prefer your creature comforts.

See the country for a different view and take a guided trail ride on horseback. There are riding centers near most of the state capitals, and there are also schools further afield. Rides can take you through rainforests, along beaches or even through winding mountain ranges. Stables usually have a range of horses to accommodate different sizes and skill levels, and most instructors will be highly experienced and knowledgeable. Nevertheless, it does pay to read some reviews about various places before you decide which stable to ride with. 


If you prefer horsepower of a different kind then rent a quad bike instead. Quad bikes can be rented in a range of locations, from Alice Springs to Perth. Both horseback riding and quad bike rentals are on the expensive side to cover insurance; however, both methods of transport allow you to experience the fresh air while covering a bit more ground.

Aim high and have a go at rock climbing. You'll get a great view from once you reach the summit, and you'll be giving your whole body a workout as you go. There are rock climbing locations all around the country, from Kangaroo Point in Brisbane to the Grampians in Victoria. If you are a beginner or don't own your own gear, then your safest bet is to get instruction from a reputable adventure company. This way, you will be provided with all the necessary safety equipment for you to climb, and you may even be able to incorporate another experience, such as abseiling down the cliff, into your day.


Our Pick: The Point Brisbane Hotel to have a shot climbing the Kangaroo Point cliffs

It makes sense to have a go at surfing in the land girt by sea. From Margaret River in WA to Byron Bay in NSW, there are sure to be waves somewhere around the country that match your skill level. Book a lesson to get down the basics, or hire a board if you know what you're doing. Before heading out, check local websites for weather and swell updates, to ensure you get the most of your time on the water.


Have a go at stand-up paddle boarding if you're after an aquatic experience that is a bit more mellow. SUP is gaining popularity, and there are plenty of locations around Sydney that have boards for hire. Like surfing, SUP is enjoyable regardless of your skill level, and is an alternative to swimming when you hit the beach in summer.


Our Pick: Novotel Sydney Manly Pacific for a beachfront stay

There’s something therapeutic about gently rowing along a lake or river. Kayaks are available for hire at a range of locations, from Lake Lechenaultia in WA to Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park in NSW. Plan ahead and check the weather forecast, and aim for a still day. Conditions are often ideal early in the morning, and you can escape the sun’s rays if you are heading out in summer.


Single and double kayaks can usually be hired, and some companies will take you on a guided tour as part of a group, which can be a great way to learn more about local wildlife. Ensure you leave any valuables behind before you head out onto the water, or else purchase a small waterproof bag for your camera and wallet if you would rather have them on your person.

What better way to connect your activities than to road trip your way along and camp. Many National Parks have designated camping areas, and caravan parks usually offer both powered and non-powered sites for a small fee. If you don’t have all the equipment yourself, why not hire a campervan for a weekend? Bedding, cooking equipment and chairs are provided, allowing you to get into the feel of going camping without the hassle of setting up a tent. There a plenty of companies to choose from, however be sure to browse through a few reviews before making your decision.


Most highways are well-maintained and tourist routes are clearly marked. Highway One, the amalgamated highway that circles the continent, is often featured on people’s bucket lists; however there a plenty of day trips that can be completed to give you a taste of the many landscapes that can be found in the country. 


Our Pick: The Novotel Vines Resort for quick access to the Great Northern Highway