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As a travel writer, one of the questions I get asked most is, “Where do you want to visit next?” My answer honestly changes weekly, based on the season or what’s happening around the country – but one thing is for sure: the list of places I want to explore is endless.
We Aussies are absolutely spoilt for choice with incredible holiday spots – whether you’re cruising along the coastline, venturing inland to the Red Centre or escaping to a remote island paradise. I asked my fellow editors and writers at Time Out which Australian destination tops their travel list for 2026, and compiled the ultimate bucket list to inspire your next adventure. So, where are you off to next?
Ikara-Flinders Ranges, South Australia
Recently, I came across a photo of the Ikara-Flinders Ranges that quite literally made my jaw drop (pictured above). Lonely Planet has named this wild outback region in South Australia as one of its top places to visit in 2026, but it’s long been on my radar. I’ve heard you really need to see its dramatic rock formations in person to grasp their scale, and I’m eager to learn about the land’s rich Indigenous history. If I visit, I’m also keen to hike St Mary’s Peak, the region’s tallest mountain; sleep under the stars at Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, one of Australia’s only official International Dark Sky Sanctuaries; and soar above Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre, the country’s largest salt lake.
Melissa Woodley, Travel & News Editor, Australia
Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia
I’ve always loved the ocean and the sea life in it. The water in Ningaloo Reef looks insanely blue, and swimming with whale sharks and manta rays has been a bucket list moment since I was young – as I’m sure for many. There’s something really calming about being underwater and seeing these gentle giants up close, just doing their thing sounds magical.
Rebecca Hegedus, Video Lead, Australia
Flinders, King and Maria Islands, Tasmania
I’m officially hooked on island life. In 2025, Lord Howe and Norfolk stole my heart, and now I want to venture further south off Tasmania’s rugged coast. Flinders Island looks like a dream, with its epic granite mountains, secluded beaches and Great Walk, while King Island tempts with its chilled vibes (and a new 64-room golf course hotel coming in late 2026). For good measure, I might as well add Maria Island to the list. With no cars and no shops, it seems like the perfect place to fully switch off.
Melissa Woodley, Travel & News Editor, Australia
Rottnest Island, Western Australia
This year, I was lucky enough to visit one of my all-time bucket list destinations: the coral-fringed, step-back-in-time idyll that is Lord Howe Island. Following my trip, I’m happy to confirm that the trope of ‘island paradise’ is a cliche for a reason. There’s an elemental magic about Australia’s beautiful islands – the slow pace, the ease of living, the community feel and the ridiculously abundant natural beauty. From what I can tell, Rottnest holds a lot of the same appeal as Lord Howe: stunning beaches, incredible hikes and an easy, ride-your-bike-to-the-bowlo kind of energy. But the main appeal? The quokkas. Look at a picture of one of these adorable fluffy babies and try not to smile, I dare you.
Winnie Stubbs, Travel & News Editor, APAC
East Gippsland, Victoria
As a Victorian, I’m a bit ashamed to admit that I only got my first taste of East Gippsland on an epic snow-to-surf trip earlier in the year – but I’m determined to explore more in 2026. This rugged corner of the state is home to pristine beaches, charming waterfront towns, an abundance of wildlife and excellent spots to drink and dine. There’s a super-cute floating bungalow in Lakes Entrance that I’ve been dreaming of staying in, and it would make the perfect base for a long weekend of swimming, scoffing fresh seafood and soaking up the relaxed coastal vibes. Heaven!
Leah Glynn, Managing Editor, Melbourne
The Kimberley, Western Australia
It’s wild to think that flying from Sydney to the Kimberley region in far north Western Australia takes longer than hopping across the ditch to New Zealand. But I’ve heard it’s well worth the trek. I’d love to explore the 20-million-year-old sandstone structures, witness the mesmerising Staircase to the Moon in Broome, and ride the rapids of Horizontal Falls, which Sir David Attenborough described as “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world”.
Melissa Woodley, Travel & News Editor, Australia
Kangaroo Island, South Australia
Kangaroo Island (or KI, as it’s affectionately known) has been on my bucket list for years. My grannie and mum spent their summers on the island, so it feels only right that we finally plan a family reunion here in 2026 to celebrate a few milestone birthdays. Thank goodness you can fly there these days. I’m already dreaming of the windswept Southern Ocean landscapes, starry night skies, dramatic granite boulders that look like they’ve been carved by the gods, the produce and the sense that you’re looking out to the bottom of the world. And then there’s that hotel: I can only dream of one day staying at the Southern Ocean Lodge – straight to the vision board.
Rosie Johns, Account Manager
Margaret River Region, Western Australia
I’m as guilty as the next person for wishing that I could have a Euro summer every year, but Western Australia is quickly rising to the top of my bucket list for beaches that rival the azure waters of the Greek Islands or the French Riviera. The Margaret River Region, in particular, gets its dazzling rep from its world-class wineries, but it’s on my radar for beach picnics complete with a basket of goodies (AKA lots of wine). A special beach is enough to recharge the soul, but one that you get pretty much to yourself? That’s enough to make me book my Perth flight now.
Caitlyn Todoroski, Branded Content Writer