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Plummeting temps in the south and balmy, tropical islands in the north—winter in Australia is a world of contrasts. Whether you’re searching for that fresh powder on the slopes of the Snowy Mountains, or seeking a spot to drop a towel on north Queensland’s golden beaches, there’s no shortage of things to do in Australia in winter.
1. Hit the ski slopes in New South Wales and Victoria
Perisher, Thredbo, Charlotte Pass and Selwyn Snow Resort—New South Wales is home to some of Australia’s best snow resorts. The largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere, Perisher offers plenty of runs for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities, while Thredbo is home to Australia’s longest ski runs and is renowned for its European-style alpine village. The slopes and nearby villages are all located within Kosciuszko National Park in the Snowy Mountains, about a five and a half hour drive from Sydney.
If you’re south of the border, head to the High Country to discover Victoria’s beautiful alpine resorts—Mount Buller, Falls Creek and Mount Hotham. Just a few hours away from Melbourne, Mount Buller is ideal for day-trippers from Melbourne looking to make the most of the snow, while Falls Creek, Victoria’s largest alpine resort, is known for its extensive cross country trails. Mount Hotham, however, is regarded as Australia’s ‘powder capital’ and as Victoria’s highest ski resort, offers visitors unbelievable 360 degree views over Alpine National Park.
3. Island hop the Whitsundays
Desperate to escape the winter chill? Winter in Australia isn’t just short days and ski slopes. Head north to Queensland’s Whitsundays, where the average winter temperatures sit between a comfortable 18 and 25 degrees. June – September also happens to be the Whitsundays’ ‘dry season’, meaning crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving.
Located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef and home to 74 islands—including the popular Hamilton Island and luxe Hayman Island—pack light and drop it back to neutral along world-famous beaches.
4. Embrace year-round warm weather on the Gold Coast
With over 300 days of sunshine per year and winter temperatures of between 12.5 degrees and 21.5 degrees, it’s no wonder holidaymakers flock to the Gold Coast’s iconic beaches to escape the winter chill. From the surf breaks at Snapper Rocks and Burleigh Heads, miles of sandy beach at Miami, Mermaid and Burleigh beaches, to the breathtaking inlet at Tallebudgerra Creek, there’s plenty of beach for everyone.
If you’re after a cooler winter experience in the sunshine state, head to the picturesque Gold Coast Hinterland. A stark difference to the adjacent coastline, the hinterland region has maximum temperatures of around 16 degrees in winter, with miles of hiking and walking trails to explore in Springbrook and Lamington National Park. Explore the many quaint country towns and cellar doors for local drops and abundant local produce.
5. Head from beach to bar at Noosa
Winter in Noosa might be the ideal time to visit this southern Queensland gem. The weather is still warm—hovering around 22-24 degrees during the day—and there are far fewer crowds to contend with. Soak up the winter sun on Noosa Heads Main Beach or Tea Tree Bay, go whale spotting along the coastal trail through Noosa National Park, or stroll down the famous Hastings Street, known for its elegant bars, food and fashion.
Just 20 minutes’ drive from the coast, the region’s stunning Noosa Hinterland is for anyone seeking a cool weather hit. Stretching from Doonan and Lake Weyba down to Eumundi, embrace breathtaking mountain views, explore the national parks and check out local vineyards, cheese shops and breweries.
6. Embrace lazy days in Byron Bay
A haven for locals and international visitors looking for a vitamin D hit in winter, Byron Bay is renowned for its beaches, laidback atmosphere and wellness culture. As well as being able to experience the beautiful Main, Clarkes and Wategos beaches without the crowds, one of the highlights of the winter season is whale watching; the annual humpback whale migration is easily spotted from the shoreline and at the Cape Byron Lighthouse.
Surfing and scuba diving is popular year-round in Byron, but with excellent conditions and fewer crowds in winter, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The region’s Julian Rocks is rated one of Australia’s best dive spots, home to manta rays, turtles, and grey nurse sharks during winter.
If you have time, take a short drive through the Byron Bay Hinterland and to nearby towns like Bangalow and Mullumbimby, which are full of boutique shops, cozy cafes, and stunning hinterland views.
Busy planning your winter trip? Consider whether it’s worth taking out domestic travel insurance. This can help you out if you need to cancel your trip due to sickness, or if your luggage is lost, stolen or damaged.
Cover image source: juancsanchezherrera/Shutterstock.com
