Where to Spend Your Summer Holidays in Australia

Want to make the most of Australia’s sunniest season? The sunburnt country is home to a wealth of inviting summer destinations.

Australia in summer is so filled with wanderlust-worthy places that even well-travelled locals can feel overwhelmed when it comes to making holiday plans.

If you’re conflicted over where to spend the summer, let us help you discover some of the best places and attractions in each state and territory. 

The Whitsundays 

Located on the coast of North Queensland, The Whitsundays is a real-life tropical paradise. Don’t let the humidity discourage you from visiting this picture-perfect cluster of islands during summer – you’ll never be more than a few hundred metres from the ocean, and all that sultry weather provides the perfect conditions for lazing around on the beach.  

The Gold Coast 

The Gold Coast may seem like an overly obvious choice when it comes to summer destinations in Australia, but there’s a good reason travellers can’t get enough of this coastal city. With a unique blend of scenic beaches, towering skyscrapers and peaceful hinterland, it has something to entertain every visitor.  

Its close proximity to other beautiful regions is part of what makes the Gold Coast such a popular place to visit during summer. If you’re feeling up to a road trip, the bohemian village of Byron Bay is just over an hour’s drive south of the Gold Coast. To discover more coastal delights, make your way north to the Sunshine Coast. 

With plenty of accommodation options dotted all over Queensland, you'll be spoilt for choice when planning your trip.

Daylesford 

An idyllic destination for summer getaways, Daylesford can be found in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range. This cultured community is renowned for its art galleries, day spas and stunning natural scenery. See the best of Daylesford by exploring the massive network of walking tracks scattered throughout the region, or treat yourself to some tasty fare at a local restaurant. 

Brighton Beach

Located 11 kilometres from the CBD, Brighton Beach is the perfect place to celebrate summer in Melbourne. The foreshore is lined with colourful bathing boxes, remnants of a bygone era and one of the city’s most iconic tourist attractions. 

Whether you want to stay in the centre of Melbourne or venture out to regional areas, Accor has many hotels and apartments to choose from for your next Victorian holiday.

Sydney’s Secret Beaches 

Seeking somewhere a little different to take a dip in some of Sydney's pristine waters, a wealth of hidden beaches can be found throughout the city.

• Milk Beach: Located in Sydney Harbour National Park, this tiny protected bay is the perfect place for snorkelling and picnics.
• Lady Martins Beach: You’ll find Lady Martins hidden in the exclusive suburb of Point Piper, surrounded by million dollar mansions and mesmerising views.
• Gordon’s Bay: Sheltered by a deep gully on one side and sheer cliffs on the other, Gordon’s Bay is one of the lesser-known beaches in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. Containing schools of colourful fish and rocky reefs, the bay’s underwater environment is ideal for snorkelling. 

Horse Riding in the Blue Mountains 

Bushwalking at the height of summer is no mean feat, so why not give your legs a rest and explore the Blue Mountains on horseback? Discover some of the best scenery in this rugged mountain range by meandering your way through forests of pine trees and shady gullies while under the escort of an expert tour guide.

Centennial Glen Stables offers riding tours for all ages and better yet the venue itself is in a stunning location, with spectacular views whichever way you look.  

Need help finding accommodation in New South Wales? You can find the perfect hotel or apartment to suit your needs with Accor.

Margaret River Wine Region 

Surrounded by vineyards and postcard-worthy beaches, Margret River is situated just south of Perth. It’s the heart and soul of Western Australia’s wine industry and the perfect destination for romantic getaways. 

Cottesloe Beach, Perth

Escape the scorching summer heat by cooling off at Cottesloe Beach, Perth’s favourite swimming spot. Covering more than a kilometre of sand, Cottesloe has rolling surf, beachfront cafés and protected pools for snorkelling. 

Accor offers accommodation in both Perth and the Margaret River region.

The Three Capes Track 

Covering 47 kilometres of bushland and coastal clifftops, the Three Capes Track showcases Tasmania’s raw beauty. It’s a 90-minute drive from Hobart, and takes around 4 days to complete. Trekkers can stay in environmentally sensitive cabins at each overnight stop.  

Hobart 

Boasting cafés, quirky museums and colonial-era architecture, Hobart provides the perfect backdrop for a summertime sojourn. Due to its southerly locale, temperatures tend to be a little cooler in this part of Australia throughout December and January. Bask in the glorious weather by taking a walking tour around town, or stroll through the forested gullies that blanket the top of Mount Wellington, which overlooks the city. 

Need help finding accommdation in Tasmania? Accor has plenty of hotel options to help make your Tasmanian trip unforgettable. 

Darwin 

Holidaying in one of Australia’s hottest cities during summer may sound like a foolhardy choice, but Darwin’s charm makes up for the humidity. Found at the top of the Northern Territory, it overlooks the Timor Sea. This tropical destination boasts some of the best seaside dining venues in Australia, and is within driving distance to spectacular desert scenery and safe swimming holes. 

Kakadu National Park 

Located a few hundred kilometres outside of Darwin, Kakadu National Park is a sanctuary of incredible rock formations and indigenous culture. Visitors can marvel at 25,000-year-old rock paintings, go swimming in billabongs, and hike through ancient sandstone cliffs. 

Accor offers plenty of accommodation in the Northern Territory — from Alice Springs to Ayers Rock to the capital city, Darwin you'll be sure to find somewhere to suit your travelling needs.

Australian War Memorial  

Sombre yet beautiful, this art deco-inspired memorial is one of Canberra’s architectural highlights. Built in 1941, it includes a commemorative courtyard, a museum, and walls engraved with the names of Australian soldiers. 

The National Gallery of Australia

Summertime in Australia isn’t all about beaches and barbecues. Get a healthy dose of culture by visiting the National Gallery of Australia, one of the most prestigious art institutions in the country. Housed in the city’s parliamentary precinct, this art collection includes works by celebrated international and local artists.

Find accommodation in Canberra with Accor.