As Time Out Australia's Travel Editor, I get asked almost daily, “What’s the best place you’ve visited in Australia?” – but frankly, asking a travel writer to choose a single destination is like asking a parent to pick a favourite child!
In 2025, I didn’t just travel to every Australian state – I visited several under-the-radar external territories and islands too. From coastal gems like the Ningaloo Reef and Lord Howe Island to small town treasures like Alice Springs and the Adelaide Hills, I’ve rounded up the top five destinations to add to your 2026 bucket list.
1. Ningaloo Reef, WA
Swimming with whale sharks in the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef was at the top of my 2025 bucket list. Stretching 300 kilometres along Western Australia's coastline, it’s one of the world's largest fringing reefs – and the most reliable spot to have an encounter with these gentle giants. The experience was surreal and surprisingly exhausting, yet one that will live with me for decades to come. Whale sharks aside, I also found my new favourite hike in the fringing national park and went on the most incredible stargazing tour.
2. Adelaide Hills, SA
I’m calling it: the Adelaide Hills is one of Australia’s most underrated gems, particularly the adorable German town of Hahndorf. I visited for the first time in early autumn and was surprised to get a taste of all four seasons in the one trip. My must-do highlights include warm scones with strawberry jam and cream at Beerenberg Farm, wandering the magnificent Mount Lofty Botanic Garden, picnicking at The Lane Vineyard and sinking into the artesian hot springs at Sequoia Lodge.
3. Alice Springs, NT
The spiritual and physical heart of the Australian Outback, Alice Springs is much more than its vast desert plains and natural wonders. Its true magic lies in its rich Aboriginal culture, leaving you with stories that linger long after you leave. Memorable moments from my trip include hiking to Angkerle Atwatye / Standley Chasm, spotting rock wallabies at Rungutjirpa / Simpsons Gap, plunging into Udepata / Ellery Creek and hot air ballooning over Tjoritja / the West MacDonnell Ranges.
4. Binalong Bay, TAS
Having grown up near Sydney’s sunny shores, I’ve always been a bit of a winter weakling – so the idea of visiting Tasmania in its coldest months never really appealed to me. But after heading south this winter, I’ll never think of the Apple Isle the same way again. I stayed in the most adorable gingerbread cottage in Binalong Bay, part of the famous Bay of Fires – which, no surprise, was crowned Australia’s best beach for 2025. Take my word: you’ll never regret a sunrise dip, no matter how cold it is.
5. Lord Howe Island, QLD
Some places in Australia feel almost unreal – every bit as stunning as they look in the travel magazines, yet somehow even more magical in person. Lord Howe Island is one of those rare places. I finally ticked it off my bucket list this year and found a beauty that exceeded all my expectations. Highlights included snorkelling with Galapagos sharks in the world’s southernmost coral reef, feeding the fish at Ned’s Beach and rope climbing to the summit of Goat House.