Melissa Woodley

Looking to live it up on your next Aussie getaway? We’ve got you covered. Australia is practically swimming in great hotels, from new boutique stays with heated infinity pools to revamped classics boasting five-star rooftop bars and close proximity to our country's best attractions. But with so many options, choosing where to stay can be a bit of a challenge. That's where we come in – our expert travel writers have slept their way across every state and territory to bring you the ultimate list of Australia's best hotels. Whether you’re a local looking for a gram-worthy staycation or a tourist eager to be in the heart of the action, here are our top picks for a luxury stay in Australia right now. ☀️ Australia’s most incredible resorts🤩 The best things to do Down Under🌏 All the best places to visit in Australia Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do allow us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

At many of the best hotels in Brisbane, you'll find evidence that the city's hotel scene is changing. The boutique revolution has well and truly hit town, with new operators looking to activate long-forgotten neighbourhoods, and the big chains inspired to produce tailored offerings for a more sophisticated clientele. The best hotels in Brisbane offer high-end experiences, laidback Aussie vibes and all the sun-kissed goodness of feeling like it’s summer all year round. The ultimate luxury stays are gushing with designer décor, bespoke art and unmatched city, river and mountain views. Can you see yourself emerging from an infinity pool overlooking Brisbane? Or how about rising from a relaxation pod, sipping a cocktail from an elevated piano bar, viewing bespoke author-inspired art or zip around in a Maserati? You can take part in these five-star experiences and more in Brisbane’s best hotels. Check out our picks of the best hotels in Brisbane below. ✨ The best things to do in Brisbane🔥 Brisbane's cosiest Airbnbs⭐️ All the best hotels in Australia Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Autumn 2025 update: Life in Sydney is fun and fabulous, but it can also be expensive. The good news is you can dine out affordably if you know where to look. Keep this guide handy next time your friends suggest a catch-up. As for me, I’ll be hitting up old-school Italian spot Bill & Toni's, Emma’s Snack Bar (found in my new ’hood, Enmore), and for banging tacos, I’m heading to Mami’s in Bondi. Going out for a meal is sometimes a big occasion, worth the splurge. But it doesn't have to be that way. From banh mi to tonkotsu ramen, biang biang noodles to vegan burgers, and pretty much everything else in between, some of Sydney's greatest culinary hits are the cheapest. Time Out Sydney's local food writers, including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure, have eaten their way around town to bring you this list, and while cheap isn't what it used to be, there are still lots of excellent affordable venues to check out. These are the ones well worth their salt. 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. Want to spend less at the big-ticket players? Check out our cheap fine-dining hacks.

At the best hotels in Perth, you'll find proof that the West Coast's accom scene is exploding. More than 25 new or renovated hotels have opened around the city in recent years, with many taking full advantage of the sparkly, new Elizabeth Quay waterfront development.  This pedestrian and arts precinct's design pays homage to Perth's First Nations people, with large public works by Noongar artists like Laurel Nannup, and a curving, flowing sense of space by the Swan River. The world-renowned Ritz-Carlton and nearby, historic COMO The Treasury are prime examples of Perth hotels that are taking full advantage of the river-ting city. Meanwhile out in Fremantle, Tradewinds Hotel is the place to be for relishing the Indian Ocean coastline with ease. Having been in and out of Perth over the past ten-plus years, Time Out contributor and local travel enthusiast, Dale Anninos-Carter, keeps a keen eye on her hometown’s ever-expanding tourism scene. From witnessing the humble 1990s big-country-town vibes, to the now glossy cityscape that is Perth, she’s well equipped with knowledge of old faithfuls and flash new constructs that thicken the skyline. In addition, Time Out Australia’s Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley has all the insider knowledge to point you in the right (and most comfortable) direction. Combined with never-before-seen luxury and late checkout times, you’re in for an exceptional stay. Here's our pick of the best hotels in Perth right now. 🌳 All the best things to do i

Dreaming of your next island getaway? Check in and fully check out by booking a stay at one of Australia’s most dreamy resorts and lodges. These postcard-worthy destinations offer more than just a place to stay; they’re where you can connect with the very best of Australian culture, take in our country’s most stunning landscapes and embark on some of the nation’s top bucket list experiences. Our Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, has been lucky enough to stay at some of these five-star properties – from a private island paradise on the Great Barrier Reef to a coastal-luxe hideaway on NSW's Central Coast and an adults-only wellness retreat in the Adelaide Hills. Here are all the best resorts and lodges to book for your next Australian getaway.  ✨ The best luxury hotels in Australia🤩 Australia's hottest new hotel openings🌏 All the best places to visit in Australia Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

If you’re looking for an excuse to get all dolled up, why not explore Perth’s oh-so-sophisticated high tea scene? We’re talking scones with jam and cream, crisp cucumber sandwiches and dainty decorated cakes – honestly, what more could you want? The British tradition of high tea originated among England’s most affluent during the 1840s. It was during the latter part of the 19th century that the tradition was embraced by both the upper and middle classes. Fast-forward to this day and age, high teas have taken the city by storm and varied experiences await. Sit back and relax within Haven Lounge's sun-filled courtyard for a seasonally-themed affair, journey through regional Western Australia via Cape Arid Rooms' spread, and go for quite literally a high tea on C Restaurant's 33rd-floor dining room. Either way, here are Perth’s best high teas that are sure to make you feel fancy and festive, much like a character from Bridgerton taking tea in the drawing room. 🍽️ The coolest cafés in Perth🍝 Perth's top restaurants right now☕️ Where to find the best coffee in Perth

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 along beautiful 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. 🥾 The most epic national parks in Australia🌊 Australia's best beaches🤿 The best things to do in Australia

France – the home of love, day drinking, red berets and impossibly stylish people. It’s also home to fine French fare: everything from soft cheeses and fresh baguettes to bouillabaisse bursting with the flavour of the sea. When your annual leave is all dried up, Francophiles can get their fix at one of Sydney’s many excellent French restaurants. Here are the best places to dine on French cuisine, from steak frites to silky crème brûlées, so you can feel oh-so French any day of the week. 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. While you're here, check out: These are the best Italian restaurants in Sydney Here's where to find the tastiest Greek food in Sydney Quench your thirst with our list of the best bars in the city

One of Australia’s crowning glories is, without a doubt, its wildlife. For many people travelling to or around Australia, spotting a vibrant array of animals in real life is one experience that most aren’t willing to skip. And we get it – you can't really beat seeing a baby koala in the flesh by much.  Here, we’ve rounded up the best ethical zoos and wildlife sanctuaries to see both native and non-native animals in Australia. Each of these locations has been selected for its strict adherence to animal welfare guidelines, conservation efforts, and the work that they do to care for endangered species, both in captivity and in the wild. Because, if there's one thing that's more important now than ever, it's getting to know the many wonderous creatures who also call this planet home – and then making sure we do our best to protect them.  🦘 The best places to see kangaroos and koalas in Australia🐳 Where to go whale watching Down Under 🐧 The top birdwatching spots in Australia

Tasmania’s capital city isn’t exactly heaving with activity after dark like its bustling mainland counterparts. But if you know where to look, Hobart’s bar scene is lively, with plenty of drinking holes for the curious and thirsty. From luxury dive bars like Manky Sally's and underground cocktail joints, namely Society Salamanca, to the age-old Cascade Brewery Bar among the greenery, no matter what kind of establishment you’re looking to pull up a stool at, you’ll find it in Hobart. It helps that the local booze, like the food, is world-renowned – the beer, the wine, the whisky, the gin. Whatever your poison, it all adds up to a good time. So whether you're a Dirty Martini person or partial to a tinnie (or three), our expert writers, including Hobart local, Josie Rozenberg-Clarke, and Time Out Australia’s Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, can both attest to these 15 best bars in Hobart. Bottoms up! For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍽 The best restaurants in Hobart🍕 Hobart's best pizzas🍣 Where to go for Japanese in Hobart

April 2025: Since our last update, we've added up-to-date opening hours, addresses and how much you should expect to pay at each spot, along with our top tip for each restaurant to ensure you have the best dining experience. What’s the secret recipe for crafting an exceptional dining experience? In coming up with Time Out’s list of the best restaurants in Australia, we considered a mix of ingredients. Talented chefs? Stylish decor? Lively ambience? Top-notch drinks? And of course, food that you can’t stop thinking about for days, months, or even years. Luckily, Australia’s restaurant scene is sizzling with spots that check all these boxes, plus so much more. Our nation’s top restaurants are a celebration of Australia’s native ingredients too. From an intimate 34-seat dining room cut into the rolling hills of South Australia's countryside to a 30-year-old institution overlooking Sydney’s sparkling Bondi Beach, these are the restaurants Time Out Australia’s team, including resident foodie Melissa Woodley, recommends for your next culinary adventure. 🍹 The best bars in Australia⭐️ Australia's most luxurious hotels🥐 The best bakeries Down Under For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines.

Brisbane may be renowned for its sprawling pubs and beer gardens, where you can settle in for a laid-back session and soak up the year-round sunshine – but these days there’s a whole lot more to the river city’s booze scene than meets the eye.  If you’re looking for a trendy spot with cleverly crafted cocktails, then Maker is well worth a suss. Or perhaps a dive bar where you can drink with your dog is way more up your alley, namely The Scratch Bar. How about an oasis like Sunsets Rooftop to take the edge off? Whatever it may be, sip away knowing that our local food writer, Morag Kobez, has selected these Brisbane bars for a reason, in collusion with Time Out Australia's Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley. Cheers to that! For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🌮 The best places to eat in Brisbane🍷 Australia's greatest bars for a tipple🌳 All the best things to do in Brisbane

If you’re after more than just a space to work out or squeeze in a physio session, Power Potential is for you. This swish, new wellness sanctuary inside The Mill (just next door to The Grounds of Alexandria) offers high-tech treatments for both recovery and relaxation – think infrared saunas, contrast plunge pools, reformer pilates and remedial massages. The philosophy at Power Potential is simple: to combine the power of medical science with the depth of traditional wellness. The result? A two-for-one destination where you can receive treatment and recharge all under the one stylish roof.  What sets Power Potential apart from your run-of-the-mill gym or bathhouse is that every journey starts with a full body scan. From there, their integrative health professionals will create a personalised wellness program for your body’s individual needs. Talk about VIP treatment! While the state-of-the-art facility covers all the bases – physiotherapy, orthopaedic and exercise therapy – its unexpectedly luxe wellness and recovery space really steals the spotlight. Whether you’re an elite athlete seeking muscle relief or a busy journalist looking for stress relief (guilty!), you’ll leave Power Potential feeling so zen that buying a one-way ticket to India and starting a new life as a sunrise-loving yogi is a seriously tempting reality. The luxe wellness space features a three-way infrared sauna, with settings for detoxification, relaxation, recovery and circulation – all with customisable

You don’t need to book a trip to Bordeaux when South Australia has its own world-class food and wine scene. While the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale are the state’s most well-known wine regions, the Adelaide Hills is perhaps its most underrated. Located just 20 minutes from the city centre, this cool climate region is home to charming villages, world-class wineries, lush forests and five-star stays. One such gem is Sequoia Lodge – an exclusive adults-only lodge, sitting atop the misty Adelaide Hills.  Why stay at Sequoia Lodge? This ultra-luxe property is everything your adult dreams are made of. The 14 plush suites boast a large bathtub with panoramic views of the valley, a spacious private balcony, a sunken lounge room with a toasty fireplace, and a moon window for stargazing before bed. Your luxury getaway also includes 32 complimentary perks, like daily breakfast, a fully stocked mini bar, an inviting infinity pool, an artesian hot pool experience and morning yoga. Say no more! What are the rooms like at Sequoia Lodge? Each of Sequoia Lodge’s 14 suites is identical, meaning you’ll experience luxury at its finest, no matter what your room number. The moment I stepped into my suite, I was immediately struck by the panoramic views overlooking the fiery foliage of Piccadilly Valley below. Whether I was lounging on the plush king bed, relaxing on the comfy L-shaped sofa, stretching out on the expansive daybed outside, or soaking in the bathtub (after retracting the Chromecast

When it comes to sustainable dining, Refettorio OzHarvest is in a league of its own. By day, the not-for-profit café serves nourishing three-course lunches to Sydney’s vulnerable communities, free of charge. But every Thursday night, ‘the Ref’ opens its doors to the public for Pay It Forward Dinners, where every ticket pays for four people in need, to dine the following day. If that's not enough, the gourmet meals are completely vegetarian and zero-waste, made using up to 95 per cent rescued produce. It's a win-win-win for your palate, the planet and those in need. The Refettorio, which takes its name from the Latin word meaning "to re-make" or "restore," is a first-of-its-kind social impact collaboration in Australia, brought to us by the food waste warriors at OzHarvest and celebrated Italian chef Massimo Bottura’s not-for-profit organisation Food for Soul. Unlike Bottura's three Michelin-star restaurant, Osteria Francescana, the Ref opens its doors to folks facing food insecurity, serving around 500 guests each week. Talk about a delicious way to make a difference. Part of the Ref’s charm is not knowing what’s on the menu until you’re comfortably seated. Head chef Jez Wick keeps things exciting by changing the three-course menu on a weekly (or sometimes even daily) basis, embracing wonky vegetables and imperfect produce, which have been donated or rescued from local suppliers, supermarkets and farms. Not a scrap goes to waste – any leftover food is fermented, pickled, pres

The phrase ‘your phone eats first’ takes on a whole new meaning at The Grounds of Alexandria. In 2024 and 2023, this viral all-day café in Sydney – famous for its sprawling alfresco area, enchanting installations and, yes, huge weekend crowds – was named the world’s most Instagrammed café.  It’s been more than a decade since I last visited The Grounds. Back then, I had to convince my mum to drive me all the way across the Harbour Bridge for a pastry and, much to my shame, a photo op. Now, ten years later, I decided it was time for me to return and see if the café still lives up to the hype. Judging by its almost 400,000 Instagram followers, 123,000 posts tagged #TheGroundsOfAlexandria, and 5,600 Google Maps reviews averaging four stars, I got the gist that it was still going strong. One clear takeaway from my research was to avoid visiting The Grounds on the weekend, when crowds swarm in from all across Sydney – and the world, for that matter. Hoping for a quieter experience, I visited on a Monday morning, only to find the car park completely full by 10am. Those who enter through Bourke Road will first encounter The Grounds’ charming, rustic alfresco area, complete with a miniature animal farm. While I was disappointed to find that ‘Kevin Bacon’ (the café's infamous resident pig) was no longer there, his old pen is now home to two cheerful goats.  Keep strolling past the animal farm, and you’ll eventually find yourself in the gorgeous Garden Bar and BBQ. Here, chandeliers han

This century-old working winery is the birthplace of one of McLaren Vale’s most widely recognised wines – Wirra Wirra’s eternally popular all-rounder, Church Block. Ironically, it’s a blend (merlot/shiraz/cab sav), rather than a purist varietal – but when a blend is this palatable, there’s not much room for singular snobbery. Church Block is a stone-cold winner by any measure, but if you are after something more specific, Wirra Wirra does a classic McLaren Vale shiraz too (plus grenache, sauvignon blanc, riesling, chardonnay… all with a sustainable, biodynamic bias).  You could easily spend a whole day here, wandering the wine-stained bricks of the cellar and cavorting on the sun-dappled lawns. From just $40, you can explore the historic vaulted brick facilities (parts of which are 125 years old), gaining exclusive access to Trott’s Cellar and an opportunity to ring the three-quarter-tonne Angelus Bell (just be ready to put some muscle into it). But most folks come here to wine and dine. Tastings start at just $15, pouring some of McLaren Vale’s richest, most fulsome wines and decadent stickies. Directly across from the cellar door, Harry’s Deli offers a seasonally inspired modern Australian menu that you can enjoy inside by the wood-burning fireplace or out in the courtyard overlooking the gum trees. Share local cheeseboards with fine-cured meats and house focaccia, tuck into Harry’s famous Son of Trott Pie, or settle in for a long lunch designed by head chef Taiaha Ngawiki

  The Daintree Rainforest steals the spotlight as the crown jewel of Australia's rainforest scene, but it also holds a world record – it's the oldest tropical rainforest on Earth. Located in the high, emerald tropics of Far North Queensland, this living wonder has more than 180 million years of history waiting to be uncovered. As the largest tropical rainforest in Australia, it spans a staggering 1,200 square kilometres and is home to more tree species in just one hectare than in all of the United Kingdom. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the Daintree Rainforest. Where is the Daintree Rainforest? The Daintree Rainforest is located in Far North Queensland, just a two-hour drive from Cairns or a quick 45-minute trip from Port Douglas. It’s located within the Daintree National Park, which is part of the broader World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics region, stretching from Townsville to Cookstown. This spectacular rainforest borders some of Australia’s most stunning beaches, serving as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. In fact, it’s one of the only places on Earth where a thriving rainforest exists so close to a living reef ecosystem. How big is the Daintree Rainforest? The Daintree Rainforest region covers approximately 1,200 square kilometres, stretching from the Daintree River to Cooktown to the Great Divide. This vast area represents the largest continuous block of tropical rainforest in Australia. How old is the Daintree Rainfo

What is it? Located atop a multi-storey carpark in Northbridge, Rooftop Movies screens films of all genres nightly from October to March. Why go? Round up your mates for a movie night at the cinema with the best views in town. Rooftop Movies plays a diverse line-up of films, with everything from Oscar-winning flicks and throwbacks to blockbuster hits and new releases. Of course, there’s also a candy bar slinging buttery popcorn, local ice creams, juicy burgers and refreshing cocktails.

The name 2KW is shorthand for No. 2 King William St – but don’t go searching for it at street level. This iconic rooftop bar is eight floors above your head, atop one of Adelaide’s most historic buildings. Getting there is part of the fun, involving a mysterious double elevator ride to the top storey. However, a little effort goes a long way for the showstopping panoramic views stretching from North Terrace to Adelaide Oval and beyond. With gorgeous greenery and a stylish mix of low and high-top bar seating, the outdoor terrace bar is the perfect spot to soak in the stunning scenes. But if the ripper view isn’t enough to win you over, 2KW’s ace menu certainly will. The terrace bar serves up a full drinks menu alongside finger-food snacks, build-your-own cheese boards and hand-stretched sourdough pizza. Signature cocktails complete the journey, including the namesake 2KW – a refreshing blend of gin with notes of peach, pear, honey and lemon, plus a foamy finish. For a cool, calm and collected lunch, the indoor restaurant is designed for both intimate dates and group feasts. Executive chef Sam Christopher champions South Australia’s finest produce with a share-style menu designed to impress. Start with gildas and blue swimmer crab toast, before scooping up salt-baked beetroot tartare with fennel seed crackers or spreading creamy Vannella burrata over sourdough flatbread. When it comes to mains, choose from grilled market fish in a smoked eel beurre blanc, slow-cooked lamb shoul

If running a half marathon is on your 2025 bucket list, make sure your race ticks three key boxes: a beautiful location, a fun crowd and an empowering atmosphere that makes you feel unstoppable. Good news for Sydney gals – your search ends here, with the chance to run in Nike’s exclusive, women-only half marathon in Sydney on April 12. Between 2005 and 2018, Nike hosted a hugely popular series of women’s races in some of the most incredible places across the world. Now, the mega sports brand is bringing back its beloved After Dark Tour, with the first race kicking off right here in Australia.  The immersive 21.1-kilometre course will start in Sydney’s Inner West and offer epic views of the city skyline as runners race from White Bay to Jones Bay Wharf to Pyrmont Bridge. Upon crossing the finish line at Tumbalong Park, participants can run straight into an epic post-race celebration, pumping with live music, recovery stations and fierce female energy. You don’t need to be a pro runner to sign up for the late-night half marathon. First-timers can access an official training plan via the Nike Run Club app and stay motivated by connecting with other participants in the lead-up. Yeah the girls! Entry to the Nike After Dark Tour in Sydney is $100 and includes everything from a personalised sports bra fitting (you get to keep the bra) to a race t-shirt and post-race celebration access. Registrations close on February 11, so gather all your gal pals and sign up as a group pronto.  Fo

A magician never reveals their secrets, so I can only spill so much about Penn & Teller’s eight-night stint at the Sydney Opera House. But trust me, the famous pair’s 50th-anniversary tour goes far beyond the classic disappearing handkerchief routine. As the longest-running resident headliners in Las Vegas history, this dynamic duo strikes the perfect balance of traditional magic, unconventional trickery and quirky humour. Their 50th-anniversary extravaganza is ever-evolving, with a nightly rotation of fresh tricks and past hits. If you’re seated stage left, stay alert, audience participation is woven into almost every act: from crazy card tricks and coin illusions to some truly absurd stuff – think a gorilla drinking soup, and a giant squirrel sipping Champagne in a bathtub – the surprises keep coming. The real magic, however, lies in the fact that Penn & Teller have been dazzling audiences together for half a century. You simply have to see it to believe it.  January 11–18, Sydney Opera House, $79–$169. Find tickets & info over here. RECOMMENDED: Here's our guide to the best shows to see in Sydney this month Check out our running list of reviews from Sydney Festival

Adelaide’s dining scene rounded out 2024 with the opening of Station Road, a chic 250-seat French-inspired brasserie helmed by a former Vue de Monde chef. Balanced yet bold, the menu showcases premium local ingredients through refined French techniques, with highlights including Mayura Wagyu tartare, Southern Rock lobster cannelloni, Tasmanian sea urchin omelette sandwiches and a classic Paris Brest for dessert. Choose your vibe: perch at the central marble bar for relaxed drinks and nibbles, sample rare chardonnays in the intimate wine room, or people-watch while dining al fresco on Festival Plaza.

If the home is where the hygge is, then this petite Blue Mountains hideaway is bound to steal your heart. Tucked amidst its wild beauty is Tiny Astrid – a Nordic-inspired retreat blending Scandinavian simplicity with eco-friendly elegance. The journey to meet Astrid is all part of the adventure, designed with intention by the wellness warriors behind tiny home collective Into the Wild Escapes. Located just two hours from Sydney, the scenic drive winds through picturesque countryside to the charming city of Hampton. Staying true to its eco-conscious ethos, Into the Wild has partnered with Volvo Cars Australia, offering guests the chance to add the all-new Volvo EX30 to their getaway. This fully electric SUV not only ensures a smooth ride, but comes with Volvo’s smallest-ever carbon footprint, making your escape as eco-friendly as Astrid herself. It’s almost too easy to leave the hustle and bustle of city life in the boot, when you pull up to Tiny Astrid. This bespoke, off-grid tiny home seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings, creating a peaceful oasis for a full digital detox – something we think should be non-negotiable on everyone’s yearly agenda. The first thing to catch your eye will likely be the private hot tub, ready to be warmed up with complementary firewood so you can melt all your worries away. Just steps away, a campfire surrounded by deck chairs invites you to soak up the stunning views of the Blue Mountain by day and a glittering canopy of stars at night

Yeah, yeah, we all know Australia is home to many of the greatest beaches on Earth – and if you didn’t, maybe your sunglasses are a shade too dark, because they’re absolutely stunning. While we’re not here to break any surprising news, we’re doing our duty to keep you in the loop about how Australia’s beaches ranked on the 2025 World’s 50 Best Beaches list. The annual list is created with the input and expertise of more than 1,000 travel professionals around the globe. Each beach is assessed on its wildlife, unique characteristics, how untouched it is, frequency of idyllic conditions, accessibility, calmness of water and the soundtrack of nature. Lucky Bay on Kangaroo Island and Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsundays are both ‘Hall of Famers’, having claimed the top spots on the World’s 50 Best Beaches list in 2023 and 2017. However, this year’s list shines a spotlight on three lesser-known Aussie gems. Photograph: Tourism Western Australia Turquoise Bay in Exmouth, Western Australia, has taken the sandy cake as the highest-ranked beach in Australia and the 11th best worldwide for 2025. With its crystal-clear waters, pure white sand, remote location and rare drift snorkelling, we think it’s a worthy pick for international beachy fame. Even better – the waters of the bay are part of the Ningaloo Reef, providing up-close encounters with a diverse array of marine life. Photograph: Tourism Western Australia Another Western Australian treasure, Wharton Beach in Esperance, ranked

As the sunny days in Melbourne become fewer and farther between, you don't have to give up on getting your dose of sunshine. The people at Qantas are making sure we get our fix of Vitamin D with a massive sale on flights to some beloved tropical destinations. Honolulu? Tick! Fiji? Yep! Vanuatu? You bet – and some of the return flights are going for less than $499! Plus, if you're keen to get over to the Northern Hemisphere, you could snag return flights from Melbourne to London and back for $1,740. It's a sweet deal worth snapping up to make your aspirations of a 2025 getaway a reality.  You’ve got only one week to nab these super discounted fares, with the sale launching today (April 29) and ending on May 5 (unless sold out prior). There’s a huge range of travel dates from May 2025 to March 2026 – so if you’ve already burned through this year’s annual leave, here’s your chance to lock in an early 2026 escape.  So, where to? Island time is calling, with return flights from Melbourne to Nadi, Fiji starting at just $729, or chill out in Bali with return flights from $721. Sun, sand and savings go hand in hand – so why not take advantage of discounted return flights to Honolulu from Melbourne from just $999. Or, if you’ve had your fix of tropical bliss, you can snag cheap return flights from Melbourne to Beijing from $1,612, or flights to Los Angeles and back from $1,867.You can check out more discounted destinations on the Qantas website here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our

Summer in Sydney might be over, but that doesn’t mean you’re done getting your sunshine fix. The people at Qantas are bringing the sunshine back into our lives with a massive sale on flights to some of Australia’s favourite tropical destinations. Honolulu? Tick! Fiji? Yep! Vanuatu? You bet – and return flights are going for less than $499! Plus, if you're keen to get over to the Northern Hemisphere, you could snag return flights from Sydney to London and back for $1,733. It's not as good as pre-Covid prices, but it's a sweet deal for 2025. You’ve got only one week to snap up these super discounted fares, with the sale launching today (April 29) and ending on May 5 (unless sold out prior). There’s a huge range of travel dates from May 2025 to March 2026 – so if you’ve already burned through this year’s annual leave, here’s your chance to lock in an early 2026 escape. Photograph: Damon Hall | Pexels   So, where to? Island time is calling, with return flights from Sydney to Vanuatu starting at just $499. Or say bonjour to Noumea with return flights from $499, bula to Fiji from $599, or alii to Palau from $899.Sun, sand and savings go hand in hand – so why not take advantage of discounted return flights to Honolulu from Sydney from just $998. Or, if you’ve had your fix of tropical bliss, you can snag cheap return flights from Sydney to Johannesburg from $1,698, or flights to London and back from $1,733. You can check out more discounted destinations on the Qantas website here.

Just when you thought summer was over, Qantas is bringing the sunshine back into our lives with a massive sale on flights to some of Australia’s favourite tropical destinations. Honolulu? Tick! Fiji? Yep! Vanuatu? You bet – and return flights are going for less than $500! You’ve got only one week to snap up these super discounted fares, with the sale launching today (April 29) and ending on May 5 (unless sold out prior). There’s a huge range of travel dates from May 2025 to March 2026 – so if you’ve already burned through this year’s annual leave, here’s your chance to lock in an early 2026 escape. Photograph: Max via Unsplash So, where to? Island time is calling, with return flights from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane to Vanuatu starting at just $499. Or say bonjour to Noumea with return flights from $499, bula to Fiji from $599, or alii to Palau from $799. Sun, sand and savings go hand in hand – so why not take advantage of discounted return flights to Honolulu from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane from just $999. Or, if you’ve had your fix of tropical bliss, you can snag cheap return flights to Johannesburg from $1,699 or London from $1,749. You can check out more discounted destinations on the Qantas website 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 12 cheapest international destinations to fly from Australia 😱 The best budget-friendly places to

The democracy sausage is arguably one of Australia’s most iconic dishes (if you can call it that). But is that snag sambo really worth lining up at the local school on a Saturday to cast your vote? If you've got other plans on the Australian federal election day (this coming Saturday, May 3, 2025), you can pre-poll, and early voting is open now. We've broken down everything you need to know about casting your vote for the 2025 federal election. When is the Australian election 2025? Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called the next Australian federal election for this coming Saturday, May 3. Who has to vote in the Australian election? Anyone who is an Australian citizen, aged 18 and over, must vote in the election.  How to enrol in the Australian election?  All Australians must be enrolled to vote. You can check your enrollment here. If you've just turned 18 or moved since the 2022 election, you'll need to have already enrolled (close date for enrolment was 8pm on Monday, April 7). Failure to vote will result in a $20 fine. How to vote in the Australian election? On election day, Australians can vote at polling booths in their state or territory, including churches, schools, community halls and public buildings. Locations are available via the Australian Electoral Commission's “Where can I vote” page, with polling stations open from 8am to 6pm. Once you arrive at your polling station, you’ll be provided with two ballot papers. The smaller piece is for the House of Representa

One thing’s clear about Adelaide lately: the city is gunning to equal Melbourne and Sydney’s status as year-round cultural capitals of Australia. And what better way to cement that status than by hosting an after-dark winter festival to rival those on the East Coast.  Illuminate Adelaide is set to literally and figuratively light up the South Australian capital from July 2 to 20 in its fifth year, with 134 free and ticketed events. The 2025 program features nine world premieres and 23 Aussie exclusives, including a new immersive journey at Adelaide Botanic Garden, a debut drone show over Adelaide Oval, an electrifying 12-hour music festival and an all-new culinary program. Photograph: Tyr Liang | 'Night Visions' If you’re after some free, after-dark fun, Illuminate Adelaide has got you covered with its annual City Lights display. More than 40 projections and installations will light up the CBD from July 4 to 20, switching on at 5.30pm every night. Each large-scale projection will showcase the talents of local and international artists, brightening landmarks like the Art Gallery of South Australia, State Library and Adelaide Railway Station. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to Base Camp at Lot Fourteen, the festival’s central hub, where you can hydrate, refuel and enjoy family-friendly performances. Or enjoy winter warmers at Adelaide Central Market, which will also come alive with immersive art installations and fresh acts.  Photograph: Supplied | Illuminate Ad

The school year is in full swing! Whether you’re looking for some reassurance that your HECS debt is paying off or are considering swapping degrees, it’s worth having a squiz at Times Higher Education’s esteemed 2025 World University Rankings. This year, six Aussie institutions made the cut, rubbing shoulders with big guns like the University of Oxford, Stanford, Princeton and Harvard. To compile this list, Times evaluated more than 2,000 tertiary institutions, considering factors like teaching, research quality, industry engagement and international outlook. The University of Melbourne placed 39th on the list, making it the highest ranked in Australia. It received an overall score of 78.4 and an impressive 99.3 score for industry engagement. The university also performed well in the rankings by subject, landing in an impressive 11th place for law and 20th for medical and health. Not too shabby when you look at the highly regarded institutions featured on the list. The University of Melbourne outperformed its fellow Aussie institutions by quite a large stretch, with Monash University ranking as the nation’s second-best and coming 58th globally. The University of Sydney placed 61st, the Australian National University came 73rd, the University of Queensland landed at 77th and UNSW Sydney rounded out Australia’s top 100 inclusions at 83rd. Overall, Australia had ten universities in the top 200, which is the sixth most of any country in the world, behind the US (55), UK (25), Ger

Us Sydneysiders are a pretty lucky bunch. We’re home to some of the most beautiful beaches on Earth, one pretty sweet white house with sails – and many of the world’s greatest restaurants. Plus, we’ve got more new restaurants than we can throw a Croc at. We’ve always known our dining scene is world-class, and so do the reviewers at Condé Nast Traveller. Last week, the award-winning travel publication dropped its 2025 Hot List of the best new restaurants that have opened (or reopened) in the past 12 months – and one Sydney venue made the cut. Saint Peter, Josh and Julie Niland’s game-changing seafood palace in Paddington – and Time Out Sydney's Best Special Occasion Restaurant 2025 nominee  – was named as one of the best new restaurants in the world (read our five-star review here). And while the OG Saint Peter opened on Oxford Street way back in 2016, Saint Peter 2.0 reopened in 2024 at a brand-new address inside The Grand National Hotel. Photograph: Christopher Pearce A project five-and-a-half years in the making, the new Saint Peter came complete with a slick bar and a 14-room luxury boutique hotel. The revolutionary scale-to-tail restaurant has changed the way we view and consume creatures of the sea – while championing sustainability one delicious bite at a time – with Niland serving up a dazzling menu featuring noodles made from coral trout bones, charcuterie from fish offcuts and Murray Cod fat caramel. Though this is special-occasion dining – the nine-course tasting

Australians are pretty lucky to have many of the world’s greatest restaurants right on our doorstep. With new venues swinging open their doors each month, we’re almost too spoilt for choice. We’ve always known our restaurant scene is world-class, and so do the reviewers at Condé Nast Traveller. Last week, the award-winning travel publication dropped its 2025 Hot List of the best new restaurants that have opened (or reopened) in the past 12 months – and two of our very own Aussie venues made the cut. The first is Saint Peter at the Grand National, a revolutionary ‘nose-to-tail’ seafood restaurant by Australia’s most celebrated chef, Josh Niland, and his wife, Julie. Unsurprisingly, this restaurant also features on our list of the best restaurants in Australia – and you can check out the full round-up here. In mid-2024, Saint Peter found a beautiful new home in Paddington’s Grand National Hotel, which also features a walk-in bar and a 14-room luxury boutique hotel. The restaurant was previously located in a much smaller venue, just down the road on Oxford Street. While the second act of Saint Peter has found a new address, the game-changing dishes very much remain – think coral trout bone noodles, John dory liver pâté tarts, 12-day dry-aged yellowfin tuna, and even a sweet fudge made from the tuna’s bone marrow.  Photograph: Christopher Pearce The Nilands are proving unstoppable too, having just opened another brand-new restaurant, Catseye Pool Club, this week. Located at The

A friend recently sent me an essay on the type of people great cities attract, and it got me thinking. If I had to stereotype Australia as a whole, I’d say we attract the adventurous, health-conscious crowd who thrive on a good challenge. From the F45 frenzy to the reformer pilates renaissance and our most recent marathon madness, Australia’s fitness fads are always on the move. But now there’s a new trend taking the world by storm, and it goes by the name of HYROX. What is HYROX? Launched in 2017, HYROX is an intense indoor fitness race that combines running and functional strength exercises. It’s similar to CrossFit, but has less technical exercises (designed for everyday athletes) and prioritises endurance over raw strength. The HYROX craze is spreading across the globe with almost 500,000 athletes having taken part in more than 30 countries, including Australia. Every race follows the exact same format, so competitors can compare their times with athletes around the world and maybe even qualify for the HYROX World Championships. What does HYROX stand for? HYROX is a fun blend of the words ‘hybrid’ and ‘rock star’ – and we bet you’ll feel like a rock star after finishing the race. Photograph: Supplied | HYROX What’s involved in HYROX? Each race consists of eight one-kilometre runs, each followed by a tough fitness exercise. Expect to tackle one kilometre on the ski erg, a 50 metre sled push, a 50 metre sled pull, 80 metres of burpee jumps, one kilometre of indoor rowing,

We’re less than 24 hours out from Anzac Day, and if you haven’t already mentally checked out, you’ll have three fabulous days to do so this long weekend. Many Aussies have already hit the road for their autumn getaways, but traffic is set to amp up even more in the coming days. If you’re keen to dodge the crowds and stay safe, we’ve got the lowdown on the best times to avoid driving. And if you’re road-tripping to another state, we’ve also got insights on the spots where you’ll be cruising alongside Australia’s safest drivers. Ahead of the long weekend, Aussie car insurance provider Rollin’ analysed more than 18 million kilometres of driving data from its Safe ‘n Save app. The app rates the safety of drivers by measuring factors, like speed, acceleration, braking, cornering and phone use – and the results revealed some clear danger zones.  It doesn’t really come as a surprise, but Fridays between 5pm and 6pm are the most dangerous time to hit the roads in Australia. On weekends, the danger shifts to midday, with a spike in incidents on Saturdays and Sundays from 12pm and 2pm. South Australia takes the crown for having the safest drivers in Australia, and it’s also the state where drivers are least likely to use their phones behind the wheel. If you’re keen to road trip in the company of the country’s safest drivers, you can cruise down the spectacular Explorers Way from Adelaide to Alice Springs, or the Epicurean Way from McLaren Vale to Clare Valley.  Queensland ranks as the

While the enticing pull of a democracy sausage is tempting, it's understandable that not everyone has ample time to line up and wait to cast their vote. If you're one of these people, then there are plenty of ways to vote early in the federal election, so you can save your precious time. And if you're still craving a snag, throw one on the BBQ at home.  So if you can't make it to the polling booths on the official Australian federal election day (Saturday, May 3, 2025), you can pre-poll, and early voting is open now. We've broken down everything you need to know about casting your vote for the 2025 federal election in Melbourne and wider Victoria. When is the Australian election 2025? The upcoming Australian federal election will be held on Saturday, May 3 2025. Anyone who is an Australian citizen, aged 18 and over, must vote in the federal election.  How to vote in the Australian election in Victoria? On election day, Australians can vote at polling booths in their state or territory, including churches, schools, community halls and public buildings. Locations are available via the Australian Electoral Commission's “Where can I vote” page, with polling stations open from 8am to 6pm. Once you arrive at your polling station, you’ll be provided with two ballot papers. The smaller piece is for the House of Representatives: you must number every box in order of your preferences. The larger ballot is for the Senate: you can either vote for party preferences (by numbering at least