Whereas a road trip planner living in the northern hemisphere might comment, “February and March are our months to band together,” an Australian might say, “No, mate, that’s the end of summer here.”
Summer is equated with beaches…and fun! And there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy a summer road trip in July or August and try it again in February or March (or vice versa). Memories of your double summer vacation will keep you toasty all winter long.
So let’s plan a road trip to one of Australia’s coastal towns. BUT FIRST, DID YOU KNOW Australia is the only country that has an entire continent to itself? While Antarctica is also a continent in its own right, it is not considered a country nor has it been claimed by any other country. That said, even though it’s the “smallest” continent, it’s still over 4 million square miles, a population of over 20 million people, and some of the most amazing beaches you’ll find anywhere in the world.
AUSTRALIAN SEASONS:
– Summer: December to February (first rains in November with the wet season in January and February, until the last rains in mid-April)
– Autumn: March to May (Last of the rains at the beginning of the hot and dry period)
– Winter: June to August (cooler dry period)
– Spring: September to November (wet period until the first rains)
Well, it’s time to PLAN THE ROAD TRIP! Here are 5 of the best beach towns to choose from to build your road trip itinerary. Keep in mind that you’re visiting during Australia’s peak season, so it’s best to book early.
BYRON BAY, NEW SOUTH WALES: Locals head to Byron Bay when the rain comes. The city has several beaches that are popular with surfers. This resort attracts both international tourists and backpackers who like to travel along the Australian coast. Whales and bottlenose dolphins frequent this area known for its wildlife. Activities are tailored to your energy level, from sunbathing on white-sand beaches and beachcombing to high-octane activities like parasailing, hang-gliding, surfing, and scuba diving. The general atmosphere of this city is relaxed and unpretentious.
GOLD COAST, QUEENSLAND – The Gold Coast is known for its sunny weather, popular surfing beaches, a commanding skyline, not to mention a lush rainforest. That’s not counting the active nightlife and the variety of things to do there. It has become an extremely popular destination for those living in North America. You’ll find all kinds of water sports to add to your road trip planner. Over 10 million people visited the Gold Coast in 2008, so this is definitely a place you’ll want to book your hotel in early.
JERVIS BAY, NEW SOUTH WALES: Jervis Bay is stunning and one of the most popular spots on the South Coast. Some of it is protected as a National Park and includes areas for recreational fishing and diving (popular dive sites include Labyrinths, the Fairey Firefly, Ten Fathom Reef and Bowen Island). In addition to diving, kayaking has recently become very popular. Since this area is only two hours south of Sydney, many locals head here on the weekend, so start your road trip planner midweek for the best hotel rooms.
NOOSA, QUEENSLAND: Noosa is about a two-hour drive from Brisbane. It is in a section of the coast better known as the Sunshine Coast. Popular as a tourist town, it is quieter than the Gold Coast but more sophisticated. Surfers love to come here, although accommodation is harder to come by. The many beaches surrounding Noosa offer a variety of activities, including clothing optional at Alexandria Beach.
PORT DOUGLAS, QUEENSLAND: Port Douglas is another place you’ll need to book early if you want to stay during peak season. Its main claim to fame, and deservedly so, is the Great Barrier Reef. Then, of course, there’s the top-notch surfing and 4×4 driving. Snorkeling is always popular, but this may be where you decide to go one step further and learn to dive just so you can dive into the Great Barrier Reef.
So how to choose a single destination? No problem. Since every beach town has a different flavor, decide what kind of experience appeals to you this time around and put the others in your road trip planner as great options for next year’s “winter” vacation.
