Melissa Woodley

If you didn’t know already, Australia is home to some of the most spectacular walking trails on the planet. From multi-day treks through red deserts and family-friendly coastal day walks and lush rainforest hikes, the land Down Under offers every kind of landscape imaginable – and trust us, they’re all bloody good.  If you’re ready to lace up your boots, we’ve rounded up the best hikes in Australia to tackle this year, complete with distance breakdowns, trail difficulty ratings and expert local tips. See you on the trails! Editor's favourite hikes in Australia: 🥾 Best multi-day trek: Larapinta Trail, NT 🌊 Best for iconic views: Bondi to Coogee, NSW 😍 Best hidden gem: Scenic Rim Walk, QLD ❤️ Best outback adventure: Ormiston Pound Walk, NT 🌳 Best for serious hikers: Thorsborne Trail, QLD 🥾 The best national parks in Australia🌊 The best coastal walks in Australia

Searching for the best weekend getaways across Australia? Look no further. When you're exploring the Great Southern Land but have limited time, you're going to want to keep it short, sweet and close to a major city. Our experienced travel writers have picked ten of Australia's best weekend getaways covering every state and territory – each of which offers up something different. From world-class wineries and cute country towns to World Heritage wilderness, these are the best places for a weekend mini break.  Editor's favourite weekend getaways in Australia: 🌊 Best beach getaway: Rottnest Island, WA 🐮 Best country escape: Southern Highlands, NSW ☀️ Best wine weekend: McLaren Vale, SA 🚗 Best road trip: Great Ocean Road, VIC 🥾 Best hiking holiday: The Grampians, VIC 😱 The best places to visit in Australia☀️ The best day trips in Australia

Want to witness Australia’s rarest natural wonders? Beyond our iconic beaches lies a world of bucket-list phenomena – from the mystical Aurora Australis and the world's largest wildflower show to the giant red crab migration and bioluminescent plankton. When you're caught up in living the city life, it's easy to forget the unmistakable jolt of electricity you feel when encountering these otherworldly landscapes and events. In this guide, we've mapped out some of Australia's best natural phenomena that are worth travelling to the far corners of our country for. But be warned: natural phenomena are fickle and they don't play by the human calendar. So, you'll have to let go and give in to the universe's mysterious natural rhythms – surely that's part of what makes seeing them so incredibly special? Editor's favourite natural phenomena in Australia: 🌊 Best for adrenaline: Horizontal Falls, WA ✨ Best for stargazers: Aurora Australis 😱 Best for illusions: Staircase to the Moon, WA 📸 Best for photographers: Lake Hillier, WA 🦀 Best for wildlife: Red Crab Migration, Christmas Island 🌅 The most spectacular sunsets in Australia✨ Where to go stargazing in Australia

With its sunny climate and impeccable wine and produce offerings, Perth could lay claim to being Australia’s answer to Italy. It’s no surprise, then, that Perth’s Italian dining scene is rich and extensive. From wine bars offering aperitivo and pizza to intimate restaurants where you can share pasta over candlelight, the city's Italian restaurant scene is bustling with exciting venues. There are fresh, innovative takes on beloved classics to try at every turn, so to narrow down where to go for your pasta fix, Time Out has asked a Perth-based foodie writer for her top Italo picks. Whichever one you choose, you’re guaranteed to be saying saluti to a stellar meal at Perth's best Italian restaurants. Editor's favourite Italian restaurants in Perth: 🍝 Best for hand-rolled pasta: Lulu La Delizia 🍸 Best for special occasions: Post Osteria & Bar ⭐️ Best for wine and snacks: Mummucc 🍽 The best restaurants in Perth🥘 The best Indian in Perth

Australia is widely regarded as one of the world's best places for thrilling adventures, and skydiving here is as good as it gets. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie who lives for throwing yourself out of tiny planes – or kind of terrified of skydiving but keen to do it anyway – we see you, and we've got your back. In this list, we've found the most spectacular (and safe) places you can solo or tandem skydive in Australia. From free-falling over the Great Barrier Reef to soaring over green vineyards and ending your jump with a wine tasting, each location has something pretty incredible to offer. Now, all you've got to do is jump. The best skydiving spots in Australia: 🪂 Best coastal jump: Mission Beach, QLD 🌆 Best city skyline: Wollongong, NSW 🍇 Best vineyard vibe: McLaren Vale, SA 😱 The best things to do in Australia🥾 The best hikes in Australia

What are the best restaurants in Australia? With one of the world's most diverse and exciting dining scenes, narrowing down the absolute greatest places to eat across the country is no easy task – but don't worry, we've done the hard work (and plenty of eating) for you. Our expert editors, including resident foodie Melissa Woodley, have curated this list of the best places to eat in Australia, spanning fine-dining institutions to hidden neighbourhood gems. So, what’s the secret recipe to an exceptional dining experience? When compiling Time Out’s guide to the best restaurants in Australia, we considered a mix of ingredients: talented chefs, stylish decor, lively ambience, top-notch drinks and, of course, unforgettable food. Luckily, the local culinary scene is sizzling with world-class venues that check all these boxes, plus so much more. Here are the best restaurants in Australia right now. Editor's favourite restaurants in Australia: ⭐️ Best bucket-list: Saint Peter, NSW 💎 Best hidden gem: Scholé, TAS 🥂 Best new opening: Omada Bar & Grill, SA 🌊 Best views: Rick Shores, QLD 🌍 Best experience: The Agrarian Kitchen, TAS Jump to list: NSW | VIC | QLD | WA | SA | TAS | ACT | NT For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍹 The best bars in Australia⭐️ The best hotels in Australia

Craving a taste of la dolce vita in Hobart? You’re in luck. Hobart’s Italian dining scene serves up a delicious blend of traditional and contemporary dishes, celebrating not just pasta and pizza, but hearty mains and delish desserts. Local chefs hero the freshest Tassie produce while putting that inimitable Italian spin on each dish, of course.   Our local writers have curated a list of must-try spots for the best pizza, pasta and Spritz. From cosy neighbourhood trattorias and intimate wine bars to old-school institutions where the servings are as generous as the hospitality, here's our list of the best Italian restaurants in Hobart. Buon appetito! Editor's favourite Italian restaurants in Hobart: 🍝 Best for wine bar vibes: Sonny 🍸 Best for date night: Pitzi Pasta Bar ⭐️ Best for special occasions: Peppina 🍷 Best for old-school charm: Don Camillo For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines.  🍕 The best pizza in Hobart🍣 The best Japanese in Hobart

Canberra’s Italian dining scene is thriving. Whether you're craving simple yet sublime antipasti, woodfired pizzas with a char-ry base or secondi that leave you fully satisfied, the capital's top Italian restaurants deliver authenticity, ambience and exceptional flavour. Our Editor Melissa Woodley has teamed up with freelance food writers to bring you this list of the best Italian restaurants in Canberra. Want a lakeside setting for your pasta? Try La Rustica. Want to savour a long lunch that’s loud and lively? Go to Pronto, pronto! After some sun-kissed Mediterranean vibes and vino? Olive at Hawker is our recco. Yes, Canberra’s best Italian restaurants have something for every palate. Editor's favourite Italian restaurants in Canberra: 🍝 Best local gem: The Italian Place 🍸 Best for special occasions: Italian & Sons ⭐️ Best for old-school charm: La Cantina For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍕 The best pizza in Canberra🍣 The best Japanese in Canberra

Adelaide owes much of its flavour to its thriving Italian community that's been shaping the city’s culture and cuisine for well over a century. From bustling pasta bars to elegant trattorias, Italian dining is woven into the fabric of the city. Adelaide loves Italian food – and the locals do it exceptionally well.  Whether you’ve got a hankering for the legendary woodfired pizzas at Amalfi, want to celebrate in style at Fugazzi (MasterChef’s Laura Sharrad is a founding owner), or (re)visit a beloved neighbourhood institution, the best Italian restaurants in Adelaide have it all. Take your pick from our favourites below.  Editor's favourite Italian restaurants in Adelaide: 🍝 Best for hand-rolled pasta: Osteria Oggi 🍸 Best for special occasions: Fugazzi ⭐️ Best for old-school charm: Luigi Delicatessen For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines.  🍷 The best restaurants in Adelaide🍕 The best pizza in Adelaide

Sydneysiders are café people. We're constantly on the hunt for the city's best coffee and we love nothing more than donning our finest sport-luxe activewear and catching up with mates on a weekend morning over eggs, fritters and crusty artisan sourdough. So, whether it's a reward for tackling one of Sydney's most beautiful walks, an indulgent hangover fix after a night at one of the city's best bars, or a workday coffee stop, these are the best Sydney cafés, according to our in-the-know Time Out Sydney writers, including Editor Avril Treasure. We'll have one B&E roll, please.  Editor's picks: 🍳 Best for scrambled eggs: Piña 💚 Best for matcha: Parami 💥 Best for trying a new café: Adelaide’s Kitchen 🥞 Best for pancakes: Happyfield ☕️ Best for on-point coffee: Primary Coffee Roasters 🐶 Best for breakfast with your dog: Havenstone Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Is it lunch time? Check out our guide to Sydney's best restaurants right now.

Perth prove time and time again that it's a city for world-class bars. Here, neighbourhood wine joints and rustic beer houses offer so much more than their humble exteriors suggest. Behind the doors, you'll find extensive and thoughtful drinks lists, gourmet tapas and aperitivo bites, and creative collaborations that make going out exciting in every season. Our guide to the best bars in Perth highlights the coolest places to grab a cocktail, a glass of wine or a cold beer. Whichever you choose, know that you're in the safe hands of expert local writers, who have given these brilliant bars their seal of approval. Where to first? Editor's favourite bars in Perth: 🍷 Best for wine & snacks: Madalenas Bar 🍹 Best for cocktails: Mechanics Institute ⭐️ Best for a casual drink: Mr Chapple For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍹 The best rooftop bars in Perth🍽️ The best restaurants in Perth

Broome: it's where the rust-red Kimberley meets the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Known as Rubibi to the Yawuru people, this former pearling town has long captivated visitors with its dazzling sunsets, rich multicultural history (think Aboriginal, Japanese, Malay and Chinese traditions) and spectacular natural landscapes. Yes, Cable Beach deserves its legendary status, especially at sunset, but Broome's appeal stretches far beyond its famous strip of sand. From exploring the mangroves of Roebuck Bay to discovering the town's past pearling life and taking to the skies above Horizontal Falls, there's no shortage of unforgettable experiences here. Whether you're visiting during the Dry Season or passing through on a Kimberley adventure, these are the very best things to do in Broome. When is the best time to visit Broome? The best time to visit Broome is during the dry season from May to September, when sunny days, low humidity and warm temperatures make it perfect for exploring – and for going on a camel ride. Avoid visiting Broome during the wet season (November to April). This period brings sweltering heat, high humidity and monsoon rains. Editor’s favourite things to do in Broome 🐪 Best for photos: Sunset camel ride on Cable Beach 🌊 Best for thrillseekers: Horizontal Falls 🍺 Best for families: Sun Pictures ⭐️ The best things to do in the Kimberley🌳 The best things to do in Kakadu National Park

Set right on the edge of the sparkling Swan River at Elizabeth Quay, this ritzy, five-star stay puts Perth’s best dining and drinking right at your doorstep – but trust us, you’ll barely want to leave the grounds. The Ritz-Carlton, Perth opened with a bang in 2019, making its mark as the luxury hotel brand’s 100th property globally. The lobby is as impressive as any Australian art gallery, featuring 10,000 pieces of Kimberley sandstone and a 13-metre-high chandelier with 275 hand-blown, tubular lights. It sets a high standard for what lies above. Up on the fifth floor, the heated infinity pool overlooking the city skyline and Elizabeth Quay is pretty spectacular, trumped only by the panoramic waterfront views from the level 17 and 18 suites. Where is The Ritz-Carlton Perth? This 18-storey tower is situated on the edge of Perth’s CBD at Elizabeth Quay, overlooking the calming waters of the Swan River and The Bell Tower – one of the world’s largest musical instruments. The Ritz-Carlton, Perth is a short stroll from Elizabeth Quay train and bus station, connecting you to all of the city’s coolest neighbourhoods and cultural landmarks. Plus, getting to Rottnest Island is a breeze, with the Barrack Street Ferry Terminal just seconds from the lobby. What are the rooms like at The Ritz-Carlton Perth? Standing 18 floors high, The Ritz-Carlton’s shiny glass facade ensures every single one of the 205 rooms and suites captures a view – whether it’s the city skyline, the Swan River, Eliz

Broome is arguably most famous for one landmark: Cable Beach, and this sprawling 26-hectare resort occupies its best real estate. As the only accommodation directly fronting the iconic beach, it delivers front-row seats to Western Australia’s famous sunsets.  First opened in May 1988, Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa trades snobby high-gloss luxury for laid-back, character-rich charm – and comes loaded with an adults-only pool, lush tropical gardens, a breezy ocean-facing bar and a luxe day spa. It's an architectural ode to Broome’s multicultural roots, with East-meets-West design paying tribute to the town’s deep Asian and colonial heritage. Chinese lions guard the entrance and stone horse statues act as maps, while green and red accents, lattice balconies and polished jarrah floors nod to Broome’s historic pearlers’ cottages. Where is Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa? Located just a two-minute stroll from the northern end of Cable Beach, this resort commands the best real estate in town. It’s roughly a ten-minute drive to both Chinatown and Broome International Airport, with a public bus stop outside for those without a car. What are the rooms like at Cable Beach Club Resort? Given its sheer size, finding your room at Cable Beach Club feels like a mini treasure hunt. There are roughly 225 rooms, suites, bungalows and villas spread across the property’s lush grounds, catering equally to solo explorers, romantic getaways and big family trips. I stayed in one of the Pool View Studi

Picture a classic Aussie outback holiday, and your mind likely envisions campervans cruising down red-dirt tracks, swags set up under star-studded skies, instant noodles on repeat and drop toilets you’d rather erase from memory. Arkaba Homestead is one of a few boutique outback properties in Australia rewriting that narrative. Travellers who make the 4.5-hour journey from Adelaide to this all-inclusive retreat managed by Stay Intrepid come for many reasons: to disconnect in nature, sleep under star-filled skies, spot native wildlife on twice-daily safaris, and witness real conservation in action. Many also come to explore these ancient landscapes on the three-day Arkaba Walk – one of the 15 Great Walks of Australia that culminates right here at the homestead. No matter how you spend your time, this isn't just an outback getaway; it's a bucket-list trip that stays with you long after the dust settles. Where is Arkaba Homestead? Arkaba Homestead offers one of the most accessible – and luxurious – ways to experience the Ikara-Flinders Ranges, an ancient 430-kilometre mountain range in South Australia that earned a spot in Lonely Planet’s hotlist of the 25 best places to visit in 2026. It’s a scenic 4.5- to five-hour drive north from Adelaide to Arkaba via the Clare Valley wine region or Port Augusta, though guests can also opt for a 90-minute charter flight direct from Adelaide's General Aviation Terminal. What is included in a stay at Arkaba? A stay at Arkaba includes everythin

“I would argue that this is the most significant hotel opening in Australia this year,” a Sunshine Coast local tells me about the new Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel. At 13 storeys high, it might not be the largest in scale, but its opening sure is a landmark event for one of Queensland’s most unpretentious beach towns, marking the region’s first internationally branded hotel to launch in almost four decades. Given that reaction, I check in with high expectations – and 48 hours later, I can confirm this new five-star stay is well worth the wait. Set just a block back from the shimmering shores of Mooloolaba’s main beach, this 180-key property isn’t trying to steal the spotlight from its natural surroundings. Instead, its rippled, greenery-draped facade mirrors the waves, setting the tone for a slow-paced getaway where everything worth doing and seeing is just a stroll away. That said, you could happily spend hours hiding upstairs: stretched out on a daybed by the infinity pool, lapping up the coastal breeze from your private balcony, melting your stress away in the private sauna, or sipping sundowner cocktails at the stylish rooftop bar. Avani is both the place to be seen and not be seen – and it feels like the missing piece in Mooloolaba’s puzzle to becoming Australia's next coastal hot spot. Where is Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel? The Avani is tucked away on a side street just one block back from Mooloolaba Beach, and a short stroll from the esplanade’s buzzing restaurant and s

Forget worrying about check-in times. While you can officially unlock your room at the Mövenpick Hotel Hobart from 2pm, the only clock that actually matters is the one ticking down to 3.30pm. That’s when the hotel’s famous free daily ‘Chocolate Hour’ begins, where all guests can enjoy exclusive, house-baked cocoa-infused desserts. Making its grand debut in 2021, the Mövenpick Hotel Hobart officially marked the brand’s first opening in Australia. If the name rings a bell, you’re likely thinking of the gourmet ice cream brand. The two businesses share the same sweet DNA, both created by Swiss entrepreneur Ueli Prager in the mid-1900s, though they operate as independent brands today. As the city’s third-tallest building, the hotel’s sweeping views are serious postcard material, or perhaps Insta-worthy, in this day and age. It sits on the fringe of the CBD, right near the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery and steps from the waterfront precinct – ideal if you’re all about that city life. But if you’re planning on staying in, Mövenpick has you covered with a fitness centre, a vibrant Italian restaurant – Tesoro – where you can expect tableside cheese-wheel pasta, afternoon antipasti and an excellent hot breakfast offering. What are the rooms like at Mövenpick Hotel Hobart? All of the hotel’s 221 deluxe rooms make the most of the building’s height with floor-to-ceiling windows – some impressing with guaranteed water views. Inside, each room is designed for comfort with plush beds, l

Had I woken from an afternoon nap at Jamala Wildlife Lodge without context, I could easily have believed I was lost in a dream at a South African safari retreat. Two giraffes grazed quietly outside my room, while lions, cheetahs, zebras and rhinos all wandered nearby. The only giveaway that I was actually in Canberra was the faint silhouette of Black Mountain Tower in the distance. Tucked away in the heart of Australia’s capital at the National Zoo and Aquarium, Jamala Wildlife Lodge is without a doubt Canberra’s most unique accommodation – an award it’s won eight times, in fact. Here, the luxury bungalows and suites are dispersed within the animal enclosures, offering you the chance to sleep, dine and even bathe next to some of the world’s most dangerous and endangered species. Think cheetahs, lions, sun bears and giraffes! While the animals are naturally the headline act of any Jamala stay, the five-star luxury of the accommodation is a very close second. Paired with fine dining, private zoo tours and intimate animal encounters, it’s honestly one of the most immersive and incredible safari experiences you can find outside of Africa. Where is Jamala Wildlife Lodge? Jamala Wildlife Lodge is located inside the National Zoo & Aquarium in Canberra, close to the banks of the Molonglo River. It’s just a ten-minute drive from the CBD and 15-minutes from the Canberra Airport. Reachable via an easy three-hour drive from Sydney or a short flight from Melbourne, Adelaide or Brisbane, J

There is magic in both the old and new, and the secret is to find a way to unite the two. Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane has done exactly that with its beautifully restored heritage-listed building, constructed almost a century ago. Over four years, the incredibly caring Adina team transformed the former George Street banking chamber into a grand 220-room hotel. The ground floor strikes the perfect balance of cool and classic, celebrating the building’s Art Deco origins with chequered marble floors, timber doorways and glistening chandeliers. As you ascend to your abode – ranging from studios to three-bedroom apartments – you’ll find all the modern comforts of home. There’s also a ground-floor gym and swimming pool, plus on-site parking for $30 per day – a rare gem in the city! What are the rooms like at Adina Brisbane? Inside the artfully restored Adina Brisbane, you’ll find 220 spacious apartments, ranging from sleek studios to one-, two- or three-bedroom apartments. Each abode is designed to feel like a home away from home, complete with a fully-equipped kitchen, laundry and separate lounge/dining areas. The pièce de résistance is the premier balcony rooms, which boast sweeping views of the Brisbane River just a short stroll away. I recommend cooking up a feast or ordering room service, then settling on the balcony for golden hour with a bottle of bubbles (when in Brisvegas, right?). When it’s time to switch off, you’ll easily drift into a slumber thanks to plush king beds

Once you set foot onto Rottnest Island, you simply won’t want to leave – so you might as well stay a couple of nights. The eco-glamping tents at Discovery Resorts are a total dream for anyone who loves the idea of camping but doesn’t want to give up all the comforts of a luxe hotel. While the property is a short one-kilometre stroll or cycle from the ferry jetty, the team will deliver your bags straight to your accommodation. That means you can literally head straight to the golden sands of Pinky Beach. When it’s time to check in, simply follow the boardwalk past the sand dunes to the 83 eco-tents that will become your temporary home for the next few blissful days. Even the Standard Tents here come fitted with all the creature comforts you actually want – think an ensuite bathroom, pillow-topped bed, fly-screened windows and a furnished deck. If you’re travelling with kids or friends, the Duplex Family Tents can sleep up to ten guests, featuring a shared barbecue, kitchenette and massive outdoor deck. But the absolute crème de la crème has to be the adults-only Deluxe Oceanside Tents, boasting romantic sunset views stretching across the Indian Ocean. Waking up to the sound of waves and falling asleep (almost) under the stars are bound to be core memories. Once you’ve had enough DIY barbecues, you can hit up Pinky Rottnest Island for relaxed pub fare. Expect seaside favourites such as fish and chips, burgers, steaks and seafood salads, alongside local wine and classic cocktail

Choo choo! The Train of Lights is back on the tracks for 2026 and ready to captivate passengers with a magical winter journey through the Dandenong Ranges for a fifith year. Australia’s favourite steam train Puffing Billy will be your conductor for this trip that illuminates the natural beauty of the region with thousands of dazzling lights. But if you want to join this glowing journey, you'll have to be quick – tickets sell out quickly every year. Here's everything you need to know to secure your spot. When is Puffing Billy Train of Lights on for 2026? This enchanting winter journey is on from June 26 to July 19, 2026.  What to expect for Puffing Billy Train of Lights? The whole experience is a two-and-a-half hour round trip. Departing from Lakeside Station, you’ll be immersed in a spectacle of neon colours that brighten up the countryside with sparkles, rainbows and hypnotic patterns. The historic train will also be adorned with stunning visual effects, which will light up the trees, tracks and passing towns along the way.  Puffing Billy will chug along the historic narrow-gauge track to Gembrook Station where guests will disembark for a 55-minute stopover. Here, you can warm up by the crackling open firepits with hot chocolate and live acoustic music, and enjoy a sausage sizzle by the Emerald and Gembrook CFA (with all money going towards their respective brigades).  How to get tickets for Pufffing Billy Train of Lights 2026? Tickets go on sale at 10am on Thursday, May 28

It didn't take long for me to fall for the Alex Hotel, a groovy boutique stay sitting just a hop, skip and a jump (actually, more like just a hop) from Perth’s Cultural Centre in Northbridge. This independent stay is easily one of the city’s best budget-friendly bases for exploring its vibrant arts scene, with heaps of trendy drinking and dining spots just a short stroll away. Inside, the hotel leans into clever sustainable practices – think sprawling indoor greenery, farm-to-table ingredients and eco-friendly amenities. It was incredibly easy to make myself at home in the communal lounge with complimentary morning coffee and pastries. I also loved the lazy midday check-out, free bicycles, stellar rooftop terrace and adjoining Shadow Bar & Kitchen. What are the rooms like at the Alex Hotel? Boutique by nature, the Alex Hotel features 74 rooms, ranging from intimate, solo pads to light-filled rooms with private balconies and spacious family suites. Each abode leans into an ultra-minimalist aesthetic that’s easy on the eyes, while sage-green and coral-coloured walls soothe the soul. Super comfy king beds, opening windows, blackout curtains and walk-in rain showers aid in the relaxation game. Just keep in mind that the street-facing rooms can get a bit rowdy over the weekend due to the buzzing nightlife on James Street. I recommend requesting a room on a higher floor when booking or picking up complimentary earbuds from the reception. Where to eat/drink near the Alex Hotel? You

You can imagine how giddy I was when I found out I’d be escaping to Australia’s most famous private island resort. InterContinental Hayman Island Great Barrier Reef sits on a 294-hectare island right in the heart of The Whitsundays, reachable only via private charter, luxury boat or a helicopter ride from Hamilton Island Airport. The moment you touch down, you’re fully cut off from the real world – in the best kind of way. This ultra-luxe resort is everything your dreams are made of – and trust me, it delivers. During my stay, I swam in the Southern Hemisphere’s largest pool, took advantage of complimentary morning beach activities and melted away my stress with a deep tissue massage before eating my way through the resort’s top-tier restaurants. But if you want to do absolutely nothing? Say no more. You’re on island time now. What are the rooms like at InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef? After suffering damage from Cyclone Debbie in 2017, the resort underwent a major $135 million redevelopment before reopening as the InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef in 2019. Now, more than seven decades since it launched, the high-end property is home to 182 uber-fancy guest rooms split across four wings – each boasting incredible views of the rainforest, beach, lagoon or pool. Some rooms, like the Pool Ocean View Suite I’m staying in, even offer direct swim-out access to the iconic Hayman pool from a private beach-facing balcony. As I stepped into my room, the lights slowl

There’s no better way to soak up the magic of Mooloolaba than with a Sunset Cruise aboard Saltwater Eco Tours’ beautifully restored 114-year-old sailing vessel. As you glide along the glistening Mooloolah River, local artists set the mood with live acoustic tunes. When the sun begins to dip below the horizon, you’ll be treated to a seasonal grazing box featuring native bush tucker ingredients, while cocktails and Champagne are available from the bar across the two-hour voyage. If you’re keen to sample more native ingredients, Saltwater Eco Tours’ Bushtucker Cruise serves up native bush tucker-inspired canapés that beautifully connect culture to coast. Think fresh oysters with finger limes, creamy bunya dip with native flatbread and a wattleseed brownie. For a deeper connection to Country, the relaxed 1.5-hour River Cruise weaves in fascinating commentary on local First Nations history, local ecology, and river ecosystems. Meanwhile, the Saltwater Canoe Tour, led by a First Nations guide, lets you uncover the secrets of Mooloolah River beyond the main channel. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do on the Sunshine Coast

It’s a big week for Aussie NFL fans! On Friday, Australia will host its first-ever regular-season American football game, with Melbourne’s iconic MCG set to swap handballs for touchdowns when the San Francisco 49ers take on the Los Angeles Rams. Whether you’re a die-hard NFL fan or you’re just keen to see what happens when American football takes over the 'G, here’s everything you need to know about watching the game live in Australia. What date is the Australia NFL game? Australia’s first regular-season NFL game will take place on Friday, September 11, 2026. What time will the Australia NFL game start? The game will kick off on Friday, September 11 at: AEST: 10.35am (NSW, VIC, ACT, QLD, TAS) ACST: 10.05am (SA, NT) AWST: 8.35am (WA) Thanks to the time difference, American fans can tune in on Thursday, September 10 at 5.35pm in Los Angeles and 8.35pm in New York. Where is the Australia NFL game being played? The game will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Which NFL teams are playing in Australia in 2026? The NFL Melbourne game will be an NFC West showdown, with the San Francisco 49ers taking on the Los Angeles Rams. How can I watch the Australia NFL game? You can stream the game live in Australia for free via Channel Seven or 7plus from 10am. You can also tune in on Fox Sports/Kayo. How do I buy tickets for the NFL game in Australia? Tickets are still available for the NFL Melbourne game between the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams. You can buy them t

Feel like flying through the Tasmanian wilderness like Tarzan? Same. If you’re down for a thrill ride, Tassie has just scored a brand-new aerial adventure park boasting the highest Tarzan swing in Australia. Located just ten minutes from Hobart’s CBD, this marks TreeClimb Australia’s first adventure park outside South Australia. Their three existing locations in Adelaide, Kuitpo Forest and Salisbury already draw more than half a million climbers nationally, with Tassie being a natural fit for the same thrill-seeking, outdoorsy crowd. TreeClimb Hobart is a daredevil’s dream, packed with 89 aerial elements spread across six courses – four designed for adults and two for kids. From exhilarating rope bridges and suspended obstacles to more than 600 metres of ziplines, it’s practically a training ground for Australian Ninja Warrior. Photograph: Pete HarmsenTreeClimb Australia, Hobart TreeClimb’s biggest drawcard is its Tarzan rope swing, which is the tallest in Australia at a staggering 11.5 metres. Plunging off a 3.5-storey platform, you’ll hurtle through the canopy on a suspended rope before swinging safely back to earth. While this marks TreeClimb’s first interstate adventure park, they already have further locations planned for Queensland and New South Wales. You can explore their locations here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Australia newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox.  RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in

Let’s be real – life can be a little messy sometimes. But if you’re feeling a bit off, you’re not alone. Today (September 10) marks R U OK? Day – a national day encouraging Aussies to check in on their mates and themselves. And here’s the good news: if you or someone you care about has been feeling ‘meh’ more than usual, there’s free mental health support just a call or click away. To start, R U OK? Day is all about giving you the tools to have real, meaningful chats with the people you care about. If you think a mate or family member might be struggling, you don’t need to be an expert – just start the convo. Their simple four-step guide makes it easy: Ask R U OK? Listen with an open mind Encourage action Check in How to get free mental health support in Australia? If you need extra support, Aussies have access to plenty of free mental health support services – no hefty fee or long waiting lists attached. There’s a good chance you’ve heard of Lifeline (13 11 14) and Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) – two of the country’s biggest 24/7 mental health support lines. But you can also get free support in person. The ACAP Clinic offers free psychology, counselling and social work services at its evidence-based, teaching clinics in Melbourne and Sydney. They also run face-to-face sessions in Perth and Adelaide based on clinician availability – with no GP referrals required. For the rest of the country, ACAP Clinic offers free telehealth services via its website. You can find more specifi

When you picture the most beautiful hotels in the world, you likely imagine shiny glass skyscrapers, pristine oceanfront resorts or grand historic palaces. They’re never just places to sleep – these architectural masterpieces are an extension of the natural beauty surrounding them, transporting you the moment you step inside. But true beauty doesn’t require massive scale or centuries of history. In fact, Time Out has just named two 21st-century Australian boutique hotels among the world’s most visually captivating. It goes without saying that any list of the world’s most beautiful hotels is entirely subjective and by no means exhaustive. But Time Out’s guide is compiled from first-hand reviews by our editors and writers, who’ve collectively stayed at hundreds, if not thousands, of hotels worldwide. The top three spots went to a grand Irish heritage castle, a sprawling design-conscious retreat in Japan and a regal 15th-century Renaissance palazzo in Italy wrapped in 11 acres of private gardens. But Australia’s two entries prove that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. Photograph: SuppliedJackalope Hotel Tucked away on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, the avant-garde Jackalope Hotel was named the world’s fourth-most beautiful hotel. With its stark charcoal decor and warehouse-like facade, this cutting-edge retreat is not quite what you’d expect from a hotel surrounded by the rolling hills of a Victorian vineyard – but that’s why it’s so spectacular. Part of the Jackalope’s

After making history in 2025 as Australia's first Abbott World Marathon Major, the Sydney Marathon returned in 2026 bigger and better than ever. Building on its historic debut, this year's race brought together 40,000 incredible runners from more than 140 countries to tackle 42.195 kilometres of stunning harbour views. With a staggering 123,000 people entering the 2026 ballot, securing a bib for next year's event is sure to be just as competitive as the race itself. Here’s everything you need to know about securing a spot in the TCS Sydney Marathon 2027. When is the Sydney Marathon 2027? Sydney Marathon has been locked in for Sunday, August 29, 2027.  How to enter the Sydney Marathon 2027? The general ballot opens on Tuesday, September 29 at 10am AEST and closes on Monday, October 19 at 10am AEDT. You don’t need to rush, as it’s not a first-come, first-served system. You can enter on the Sydney Marathon website, with runners selected through a random draw and notified of the result via email on November 3. While it's free to enter, the full entry fee will be charged automatically if your name is drawn.  Anyone who ran in the Sydney Marathon during its candidacy years (2022, 2023 or 2024) is guaranteed entry in one of the next three events (2025, 2026 or 2027). If you nominated 2027 as your preferred year in the Candidacy Club ballot, you should receive your result soon.  If you’re unsuccessful in the ballot, there's one last resort. You can find a way to secure a spot in th

For runners, the Sydney Marathon is like Christmas Day. We spend months planning our strategy – carefully mapping out our carb load, choosing where we’ll celebrate, and finally laying out our race kit the night before like a present under the tree. If the marathon is Christmas, then today is Boxing Day. Yesterday, I ran the Sydney Marathon with team Shokz alongside 40,000 runners from more than 140 countries. Having completed the race in its inaugural year as a World Major in 2025, I largely knew what to expect – but that didn’t make it any less special. Here are my five favourite takeaways from 2026. 1. The most beautiful backdrop I genuinely believe the Sydney Marathon is one of the most beautiful courses on Earth – and thankfully, Mother Nature blessed us with another blissfully sunny winter day, allowing our Harbour City to show off in all its glory. Running across the Harbour Bridge and flying over the finish line at the Sydney Opera House still gave me goosebumps – even as someone who runs past them every week. I can only imagine how magical that moment must have been for the thousands of runners visiting from overseas. Photograph: Daniel TranSydney Marathon 2. The power of strangers The Sydney Marathon is one of the biggest days of the year when the whole city comes out to cheer people pushing their limits. From the volunteers to the support crews and my fellow runners, thank you for showing up. I particularly loved the huge choir belting out ballads near Martin Plac

Love the idea of stargazing, fresh air and total serenity, but don’t want to give up hot showers, flushing toilets and a real bed? Glamping is the ultimate middle ground for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in Canberra’s natural beauty without roughing it – and you can experience it firsthand when Australia's most exciting new off-grid glamping retreat opens on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin later this year. Set at Yarramundi Peninsula – just minutes from the city – Eco Suites Canberra is the first-ever overnight accommodation approved to be built on the shores of the heritage-listed lake. Sure, Lake Burley Griffin might not be a hotspot for swimming, but its serene, glassy shoreline makes it a breathtaking waterfront backdrop for a peaceful off-grid getaway. Photograph: SuppliedRender of Eco Suites Canberra Eco Suites Australia will unveil its flagship collection of luxury glamping suites in December 2026, featuring just three triple-glazed glass geodesic domes. Inside, each six-metre suite packs all the perks of a hotel: king beds, private ensuites with rainfall showers, Wi-Fi, streamcast TVs, Nespresso machines, complimentary minibars and breakfast baskets. But the coolest feature has to be the opening glass rooftops, designed for stargazing at the Milky Way right from the comfort of your bed. Absolutely no deflating air mattresses allowed! Photograph: Supplied | Eco Suites CanberraRender of Dyurra interior Now, onto those waterfront views. Inspired by the ancie

Did you know Australia is the best place in the world to go camping? We’re blessed with some of the most beautiful, diverse landscapes on Earth, many of which have sites where happy campers can pitch a tent. If you’re looking for fresh inspo for your next camping trip, Australia’s most beloved campsites have just been recognised in the 2026 Hipcamp Awards. To determine the top spots, the camping platform analysed booking, rating and review data from more than 8 million users across 60,000 Aussie properties. Along with state winners, the 2026 awards spotlighted the best newcomer Hipcamps. From countryside cattle stations and fairytale forest glamping to quiet hilltop farms and ocean-view sites, these are the 15 campgrounds that have made a name for themselves in just a short period of time – listed in no particular order. Photograph: Supplied | HipcampGoGo Camping, QLD 1. GoGo Camping, QLD Where: Charlwood, Scenic Rim (1.5 hours from Brisbane)Best for: Off-grid bush camping, stargazing, mountain viewsFrom: $63 per night 2. Comely Banks Ocean View, VIC Where: Warrnambool, Great Ocean Road (3 hours from Melbourne)Best for: Scenic oceanfront campingFrom: $54 per night Photograph: Supplied | HipcampShanlyn Farm, QLD 3. Shanlyn Farm, QLD Where: Traveston, Noosa Hinterland (2 hours from Brisbane)Best for: Off-grid eco glamping, farm animalsFrom: $303 per night  4. The Last Post, NSW Where: Central Colo, Colo Valley (1.5 hours from Sydney)Best for: Peaceful farm‑style campingFr

As a travel writer, I’m constantly asked to pinpoint Australia’s most underrated destination. After three years of travelling the country, I finally have my answer. It isn’t a trendy beach town trying to be the next Byron Bay, nor a hidden gem a short drive from a capital city; it’s an expansive wilderness region unlike anything else on Earth. If you didn’t recognise it from the cover photo, I’m putting the Kimberley forward as Australia’s most otherworldly and underrated destination. Famed for its fiery red pindan cliffs and untouched turquoise beaches, this remote stretch of Western Australia looks just as jaw-dropping in real life as it does on a postcard – no Photoshop required. I spent three jam-packed days exploring the Kimberley and barely scratched the surface. But what I did experience absolutely blew my little mind, and I’m here to tell you why the region belongs at the top of your travel bucket list. Photograph: Melissa WoodleyJames Price Point The landscapes I’m calling it: the Kimberley’s beaches might be the most visually striking in all of Australia. The electric-blue water isn’t just balmy and inviting year-round; it collides with crimson pindan soil and bright white sand to create a living postcard. It’s even more spectacular at dusk, when you can watch the sun melt into the Indian Ocean. I also love how no two visits to the beaches here are the same. Fueled by the Southern Hemisphere’s largest tides, sea levels in the Kimberley fluctuate by up to ten metre

  The weather is getting warmer, the days are getting longer and everyone is suddenly sneezing – that means spring has officially sprung in Melbourne! And with the change in season comes everyone's favourite annual gear-shift: daylight saving. Funnily enough, even though it comes around every year, we're always left wondering when exactly it starts and, perhaps more importantly, whether we're about to gain or lose an hour of sleep. So if you're a teeny bit confused about whether you'll be getting an extra hour in bed (spoiler alert for sleepyheads: it's the opposite), here's everything you need to know about daylight saving in Victoria in 2026. When does daylight saving start in Victoria in 2026? Daylight saving starts on the first Sunday in October, which means that this year, Sunday, October 4, 2026 is the big day. At 2am, clocks will jump forward one hour to 3am, officially ushering in daylight saving time. In other words, you can say goodbye to one precious hour of sleep – but hello to longer, lighter evenings. Do we gain an hour or lose an hour when daylight saving starts in Victoria? When daylight saving kicks in, our clocks jump forward, meaning we lose an hour. But what we lose in sleep we make up for in sunshine, with more light at the end of the day for a twilight walk, a drink with friends or dinner at that new restaurant you've been meaning to try. Honestly, we'll take that trade. Photograph: Arianna HarryStokehouse at dusk.   Do I turn the clock back or forward

Travelling around an entire city for just 50 cents might sound too good to be true – but for Queenslanders, riding almost all public transport state-wide for a single silver coin is very real. Now, holidaymakers can stretch their dollars even further, thanks to the newly opened Gold Coast tram extension linking Broadbeach to Burleigh Heads. Photograph: Supplied | Experience Gold CoastBurleigh Heads The 6.7-kilometre G:link extension is a massive win for Aussies chasing an affordable coastal escape or looking to ditch the car. For the first time, the tram connects Burleigh Heads to Broadbeach via hotspots like Miami, Nobby Beach and Mermaid Beach. That means easy access to some of the Gold Coast’s best beaches, restaurants, bars and hotels. Better yet, the entire journey takes just 17 minutes – quicker than driving on a summer’s day – with trams departing every 7.5 minutes from 7am to 7pm, and continuing at a reduced frequency until midnight. Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said, “With permanent 50-cent fares, Gold Coasters now have access to an affordable, convenient and connected public transport network that will continue supporting the city’s growth well into the future.” Photograph: Supplied | Experience Gold CoastMiami Marketta Day-trippers coming from Brisbane can simply catch the train to Helensvale Station and hop straight onto the G:link. From there, the Gold Coast is your oyster: get off at Broadbeach South for a shopping spree at Pacific

Leave the door open, Australia – Bruno Mars is officially heading Down Under in 2027. The 16-time Grammy-winning hitmaker will bring his record-breaking The Romantic Tour to four Aussie cities in February for six mega stadium shows – and we cannot wait! The ‘Uptown Funk’ and ‘Just the Way You Are’ singer is currently tearing through the second North American leg of his global tour, where he racked up the largest single-day sales in Ticketmaster history. Safe to say, Australian tickets will be just as hot a commodity. Here’s everything you need to know about getting tickets to Bruno Mars’ Australian tour in 2027. When is Bruno Mars coming to Australia? The funk master will perform six stadium shows across four Aussie cities, including: Perth, Optus Stadium – Saturday, February 13 and Sunday, February 14 (NEW DATE) Melbourne, Marvel Stadium – Friday, February 19, Saturday, February 20, Tuesday, February 23 and Wednesday, February 24 (NEW DATE) Brisbane, Suncorp Stadium – Sunday, February 28 and Monday, March 1 (NEW DATE) Sydney, Accor Stadium – Thursday, March 4, Friday, March 5 and Monday, March 8 and Tuesday, March 9 (NEW DATE) How to get tickets to Bruno Mars in Australia? Anyone else wanna be a billionaire so they can shout tickets for the whole gang? General public tickets go on sale on Friday, September 4 at 12pm local time in Sydney, 1pm in Brisbane, and 2pm in Melbourne and Perth. When is the Bruno Mars pre-sale in Australia? Superfans can score early access to ticket