Alexandra Casey

If there's one thing that Australia does right, it's really beautiful beaches – and a lot of them, to be precise. With a whopping 12,000 fringing our island continent, it would take you a wild 32 years to see them all – if you tackled one beach per day. Assuming that your 32-year plan doesn't singularly involve beach hopping around Australia (although, we can of course, dream), we've put together a list of the best and prettiest beaches in Australia that you should visit this year – or at least once in your life. Each beach on this list has been selected for its remarkable beauty, safe swimming conditioning (read: you won't see anywhere with saltwater crocs on this list), and proximity to other incredible activities, so your adventure out doesn't end with just one dip. Some of these picks have been richly awarded in the past, while others are less mainstream – but rest easy knowing that every single one of them is well worth their salt, in more ways than one. Now, all that's left is for you to find out for yourself. 🌊 The best nudist beaches in Australia🏄 Australia's top surf beaches🌈 All the best places to visit in Australia

Ah, food. Glorious, glorious food. There’s nothing more we’d rather travel around the world for.  Almost every state, city and even town in Australia has its own food and drink bash, bringing together the best chefs, farmers, producers and suppliers around the country. Whether you’re a wine wanker, a seafood seeker, a beer buff or a truffle hunter, there food and drink festivals in Australia are well worth the journey. 🍽️ The best restaurants in Australia🎸 Australia's grooviest music and arts festival🍷 The best bars in Australia

Western Australia's capital city might feel like it's in a world of its own, but anyone who's been there will tell you it's absolutely worth the trip (which is a little over four hours by plane from Sydney or Melbourne). Once solely known for its pristine beaches and perfect weather, Perth’s booming restaurant and culture scenes, and its trendy sister city Fremantle (located just half an hour from Perth) have put WA’s capital city on the international radar. Here are all the best things to do during your stay in Perth.  🍽️ The best restaurants in Perth right now🥾 Where to go hiking in Perth🖼️ Perth's top museums and galleries

If you didn’t know already, Australia is home to some of the most incredible hikes on the planet. From week-long treks through red deserts and green mountains to easy day hikes through rainforests and across secret beaches, the land Down Under has every possible kind of walk imaginable – and trust us, they’re all bloody good.  If you’re looking at lacing up your hiking boots this year, we’ve got you covered with our pick of the best hikes and walks to do in Australia.  Using the age-old philosophy of variety being the best spice, this list has a little bit of everything. From self-guided kid-friendly day walks to life-changing multi-day treks that can be done independently or in a guided group, we’ve rounded up the most beautiful hikes in Australia, just for you. 🥾 The most epic national parks in Australia🌊 Australia's best beaches🤿 The best things to do in Australia

It really doesn’t get much better than sipping on an Aperol spritz or two while gazing out across the sparkling Swan River at sunset. Or maybe you prefer the vivacious chatter of friends while perched among the bright lights of the city skyline. We’ve put together a list of Perth’s best rooftop bars, so you’ll have no shortage of options for Thursday night drinks. 🍽️ The best restaurants in Perth right now🍷 More great bars for drinks in the city⭐️ Perth's top hotels to rest your head

Perth more than proves its prowess when it comes to world-class bars. Here, neighbourhood wine joints and rustic beer houses are so much more than their humble exteriors suggest. Hiding behind doors are extensive and thoughtful drinks lists, gourmet tapas and aperitivo bites, and creative collaborations. Drink your way through our guide to the best bars in Perth. 🍹 Perth's coolest rooftop bars🍽️ The best restaurants in Perth right now⭐️ Perth's top hotels to rest your head

As it turns out, the land of sun and good weather also doubles as a hotspot for world-class sporting events. Year-round, we welcome the world’s top tennis players, race car drivers, runners, sailors and sporting superstars to play on our glorious home turf. While Australia's winter sports are a far cry from Canada’s frozen hockey or England’s Premier League, our national leagues like the AFL and the NRL, still pack out pubs and have put Australia on the international sports map. But it’s in summer that Australia's sporting scene truly shines with the likes of The Ashes, the Australian Open and the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. So even if being sporty isn’t your thing, strap in for some premium entertainment at one of Australia’s best sporting events. 🏄🏾 Australia's best beaches to catch a wave🏆 Everything to know about the 2026 Commonwealth Games🎾 Australia ranks as one of the world’s sportiest countries

Everybody knows Western Australia for its dreamy islands, world-class wine regions, red rock gorges and crystal clear waters. The state’s natural wonders set the stage for a colourful and diverse line-up of arts and entertainment that brings together our best homegrown talents with big names from around the world. Whether you’re a new arrival or a born-and-bred local, here’s our round-up of the best festivals in Perth and Western Australia to let you experience the Wildflower State from every angle. 🎸 The greatest music and arts festivals in Australia🍔 The best food festivals in Australia🌳 All the best things to do in Perth

Rottnest Island is one of those incredibly rare places on Earth that looks even better IRL than it does in glossy travel magazines. Also known by its local Aboriginal name, Wadjemup, and ‘Rotto’ by locals, it’s an essential addition to any WA itinerary. Out-of-towners may know Rottnest for its friendly population of quokkas, but the island is also home to the most incredible azure blue waters you’ll come across, and nowadays, it has a selection of top-notch eateries and luxe accommodation, as well as camping grounds, cafés and low-key restaurants for the budget-conscious.  Whether you’re ready to splurge on a peaceful retreat or simply spend your days lounging at the beach and sipping on pints at the hotel, you can easily spend a day, weekend or entire summer on Rottnest Island. Want to keep adventuring? Here are the most beautiful islands in Australia.

Margaret River is easily one of the most charming little pockets of Western Australia and a must-visit on your next adventure out west. ‘Margs’, as she’s known to locals, has a reputation for producing some of Australia’s finest wines, with more than 90 cellar doors ready to fill your cup. However, she has a whole lot more up her sleeve than just a good pour. When you pay Margs a visit, she might take you for a wander through the region’s fairytale forests, along stunning coastal trails, or into the depths of sparkling crystal caves. Trust us, it’s well worth the 3.5-hour drive south of Perth to explore this charming region, which has been the traditional land of the Wadandi (Saltwater) People for more than 60,000 years. Here are the best things to do in the Margaret River. 🌊 The best things to do in Perth☀️ Your ultimate guide to Albany🍷 Australia's very best wineries

Escape the crowds in Perth, Broome and Margaret River, and head to this lesser-known coastal gem in the Great Southern region of Western Australia. ‘Amazing Albany’ is one of WA’s best-kept secrets, home to many of Australia’s bluest beaches – including Middleton Beach, Emu Point and Little Beach – all just minutes from the CBD. Sun and sand aside, Albany’s rugged coastline is dotted with striking rock formations, peaceful nature trails and panoramic lookouts perfect for spotting whales in winter. While those looking to take it easy can explore its historic museums and sample local brews and bites.  Albany is just a 4.5-hour drive or one-hour flight from Perth and makes for a mean road trip. Don’t sleep on this coastal town any longer and start ticking off this list of the best things to do in Albany. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Exmouth.

Hiking is a great way to get some exercise while immersing yourself in the beauty of nature. With benefits such as enhanced mental well-being, lowered stress levels and improved mood, hiking assists in the release of endorphins, which make you feel happy. Remember to wear a hat, sunscreen and appropriate footwear and bring lots of water and snacks to keep your body fuelled. And remember to leave no trace! Here are a few of the best day hikes near Perth to get your heart pumping. RECOMMENDED: These are the best things to do in Perth right now.

This East Fremantle-based garden bar boasts a charming menu of Asian-inspired share plates, great for a date night or evening with the gals. The rooftop dining experience will transport your senses to the heart of the East, with divine dishes including sticky eggplant, karaage chicken, fried gado gado and prawn laksa. Sweetheart's menu also features plenty of vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, onion and garlic-free options, so there’s sure to be something to suit all tastes and dietary requirements. The relaxed setting, groovy furnishings and trendy rooftop vibe will have you feeling like you’re on vacay. A word to the wicked: take advantage of happy hour with $12 cocktails, $8 beers and $10 glasses of wines from 5-6pm daily. 

With a share-friendly menu infused with Moroccan, Mediterranean and Greek flavours, Hadiqa will transport you to places far and wide. The restaurant and rooftop bar were inspired by the Arabic word for “garden”, with the Middle Eastern oasis providing a welcome escape, contrasting against the Perth CBD and concrete jungle surroundings. Hadiqa's menu features taste sensations of Moroccan chicken, flank steak, lamb shawarma and all your favourite mezze dips. Hit up happy hour from 5 to 6pm between Wednesday and Saturday to enjoy $10 schooners, $10 house wines, $15 seasonal Spritzes and $15 Turkish Delight Martinis. For something a little different, you might even enjoy a visit from belly dancers and snake handlers.

Located within the heritage-list Old Synagogue building in the heart of Fremantle is Mr Chapple. It’s a crafty bar with no-fuss grub and a rooftop terrace overlooking the renowned Freo café strip. The rooftop is a hive of activity and an awesome stop for a night of bar-hopping. For food, you can dig into salt and pepper squid, pork rillettes and a big loaf of sourdough with salted butter. Need something heartier? You can also tuck into double cheeseburgers, bangers and mash, or grilled sirloin steak. Gin and tonics rule the drinks menu, but you'll also find all the classic cocktails, along with Chapple specialties, including a Peanut and Tangerine Manhattan, and Mango and Earl Grey Sour. 

If you’re looking for something a bit closer to home, the Bold Park Zamia Trail is a great option. The trail is a very achievable 5.1-kilometre loop with varying gradients, and is home to more than 300 species of plants and wildlife, including birds, mammals and reptiles – so keep your eyes peeled.  Bring your furry friend – but make sure you pick up their poo and keep them on their leash – and enjoy the lovely contrast of both city and ocean views. The Zamia Trail is sprinkled with park benches, perfect to perch and enjoy morning tea or lunch. Drive time from CBD: 14 mins Duration (return): 5.1km (1 hr 35 mins)  Level of difficulty: Easy

The picturesque walk along the Wooroloo Brook is stunning all year round, with colourful wildflowers in spring and a bubbling waterfall in the cooler months. The bush track begins at the Noble Falls picnic and parking area, off Toodyay Road. Cross the footbridge and turn left to follow the Woorloloo Brook and head past Noble Falls. The trail is family-friendly for those with little or no bushwalking experience, and you can also bring along your furry friend. Drive time from CBD: 50 mins Duration (return): 3.6km (1 hr) Level of difficulty: Easy    

The Bibbulmun Track spans more than 1,000 kilometres from Albany to the Perth Hills and attracts more than 80,000 hikers each year. Some hard-core bushwalkers choose to trek the entire six-to-eight-week journey, although most opt to cover a smaller distance. But you don't have to go for a long time to have a good time, as there are a variety of short – in comparison, that is – day walks. A great place to start is the Camel Farm to Hewett’s Hill section in the Perth Hills. The trail is bursting with wildlife, making it ideal for those with a taste for birdwatching. Try to time your walk during the wildflower season from August to November. Drive time from CBD: 35 mins Duration (return): 5km (1–3 hrs) Level of difficulty: Moderate

Kitty’s Gorge Trail traces the Serpentine River and Gooralong Brook, with remarkable granite outcrops and waterfall views. The trail has loose sections, short steep hills, uneven ground and steps – lots of them, so it does require a degree of fitness. There are two access points: one is from the carpark opposite the cemetery in Jarrahdale, and the other is from the Serpentine National Park Falls carpark. The Serpentine Falls gates are open between 8.30am and 5pm, so be sure to allow enough time to get back to your car before they close. Drive time from CBD: 1 hr Duration (return): 17km (3–4 hrs) Level of difficulty: Moderate

You have probably heard of Bells Rapids before, as it’s one of the best spots to watch the Avon Descent. This 2.75-kilometre loop is a combination of the easy Bells Rapids River Walk and the more difficult Goat Walk. The trail traces the river and then climbs the hill with some steeper, rocky sections. And keep an eye out for the Buttocks Boulder! The best time to visit is July to November to catch the best water flow and beautiful wildflowers. Pack your picnic basket and bring the family along for a taste of nature. You might even spy a kangaroo. Drive time from CBD: 45 mins Duration (return): 2.75km (Less than 1 hr) Level of difficulty: Moderate

Located in the Mundy Regional Park, the Lesmurdie Falls offers several walking trails of varying difficulty levels, from the 640-metre return Falls Trail to the 1.5-kilometre Lesmurdie Brooke Loop or three-kilometre Valley Loop Trail. The Lesmurdie Falls Track follows the brook until it reaches a bridge at the top of the falls. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see the Perth city skyline and Rottnest Island. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can follow the trail down to the picnic area at the base of the hills, and another short trail leads to the base of the falls. The waterfall takes a magical, almost New Zealand-like appearance with the lush vegetation that grows from where the brook hits the base. The climb back to the carpark is short but steep, so treat yourself with a picnic when you arrive back at the car, or enjoy a treat in the Kalamunda Village. Drive time from CBD: 30 mins Duration (return): 2km (1–3 hrs) Level of difficulty: Moderate

Bluff Knoll is located in the southwest region and is the most popular trail in the Stirling Range National Park. The trail is well signed and takes you 1,098 meters above sea level to simply spectacular views at the top of Bluff Knoll. You’ll start from the southern end of the Bluff Knoll carpark, where the trail drops down to a creek before venturing across a mountain offering amazing views over the ridge to the south coast. The trail turns left to follow the ridge to the summit, and you’ll be rewarded for your efforts with the 360-degree countryside views. The lower slopes are covered with eucalypt, banksia and grass trees, and more than 1,000 species of flowering plants, including mountain bells and the queen of sheba orchid. There is a $15 entry fee to enter the Stirling Range National Park.  Drive time from CBD: 4.5 hrs Duration (return): 6.8km (3–4 hrs) Level of difficulty: Medium to hard

Wander through the forests around Dwellingup to see some of the best Jarrah and Marri trees. The King Jarrah Walk Trail begins at the edge of the forest near Nanga Mill Campsite. The track will take you up through the hills and incredible jarrah forests, before descending to trace the banks of the Murray River. Expect some steep sections on the western side of the trail. Keep your eyes peeled for the 400-year-old Jarrah tree – from which the trail got its name – and the old logging railway formation with cuttings and old bridge sites. The best time to visit is autumn through to late spring, as the summer months will prove too hot for the vigorous walk.  Drive time from CBD: 1 hr 30 mins Duration (return): 17.8km (5 hrs) Level of difficulty: Hard

A larger-than-life adventure is waiting for you in WA’s largest regional city, Mandurah, located less than an hour south of Perth. The city has transformed into the ultimate outdoor playground for internationally renowned Danish recycle artist Thomas Dambo’s magical Giants of Mandurah exhibition, featuring five enormous wooden sculptures. Bring the whole family along to play, as you collect clues to discover the final secret giant hiding in the wetlands. The free, interactive outdoor exhibition launched in November 2022, but the Giants are here to stay for at least three more years.