Located between Echo Point and Scenic World, Katoomba Falls is one of the most popular and accessible waterfalls in New South Wales’ Blue Mountains. A beautiful, segmented waterfall, Katoomba Falls drops about 492 feet (150 meters) in two main stages into Jamison Valley and can be viewed from a number of lookouts in the area.
Easily the wildest place in the city, Taronga Zoo Sydney is a sprawling wildlife sanctuary where more than 4,000 animals crawl and chirp just minutes from the heart of downtown. Admire fuzzy-faced koalas, playful lemurs, distinctive Malaysian sun bears, saltwater crocs, and other animals before enjoying tours, keeper talks, animal shows, and activities suitable for kids and adults alike.
Perched along the rocky coast of Tahiti and bordered by a scenic black sand beach, Arahoho Blowhole is one of the island’s most visited natural wonders. As waves crash against the shore, a powerful geyser-like eruption sends spectacular plumes of water into the air, wowing visitors and creating the opportunity for some impressive photos.
The entire western coastline of New Zealand’s two main islands is known to be wild and windswept, and Muriwai Beach, to the west of Auckland, is no exception. The black sand beach with high cliffs and rugged waves are popular with adventurous surfers as well as bird spotters, who come to see the huge colonies of nesting gannets.
The Whitsunday Passage is the waterway that carves through the middle of the Whitsunday Islands, in the heart of northeastern Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. The famous islands, perhaps some of Australia's most popular tourist attractions, are named after the passage, which was given its title by the famed explorer Captain James Cook in 1770.
Soaring through the treetops of Barron Gorge National Park, the 4.7-mile-long (7.5-kilometer) Skyrail Rainforest Cableway offers an unforgettable outdoor experience. Glide over North Queensland’s UNESCO World Heritage–listed tropical rain forest and enjoy unbeatable aerial views over its forests, gorges, and waterfalls.
Just across the river from Brisbane’s central business district, Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park offers sweeping views of Brisbane’s skyline, as well as excellent rock climbing and rappelling—suitable for all skill levels—on its cliffs. The cliffs were formed by convicts mining the volcanic rock in the middle of the 19th century.
The Rainforestation Nature Park is 100 acres (40.5 hectares) of pristine UNESCO World Heritage-listed rainforest in Kuranda, just half an hour’s drive from Cairns. Here, visitors can get up close to native Australian animals as trained wildlife keepers lead guests along boardwalks where they can experience uninterrupted views of crocodiles, dingoes, wombats, snakes, kangaroos, and wallabies, as well as learn about Aboriginal culture and traditions.
Some of Australia’s most beloved animals—including kangaroos, koalas, and Tasmanian devils—call the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary home. As one of Tasmania’s most important sanctuaries, Bonorong’s aim is to rescue, rehabilitate, and preserve some of the island’s rarest and most endangered creatures.
Queen Victoria Market is Melbourne’s premier farmers market. It’s filled with fresh fruit and vegetables from local farmers, regional meats and cheeses, gourmet items, handicrafts, and much more. Since 1878, the market has been a gathering place for locals and tourists to peruse the stalls and relish delicious treats from stallholders.
A gigantic monolith of rust-red rock looming over the desert plains of the Australian Outback, Uluru (Ayers Rock) is more than just a postcard icon—it’s the cultural, spiritual, and geographical heart of Australia, one of its most impressive natural wonders, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The South Island city of Dunedin was designed in the 19th century using a grid system that took little account of the area’s hilly topography. This resulted in some very precipitous roads, including the famous Baldwin Street; not only is it Dunedin’s most sloping route, it is officially the steepest street in the world.
Built in the late-19th century by William Larnach, Larnach Castle is New Zealand’s only castle—although it’s actually a mock castle, as it was a home rather than a fortified battlement. It’s been beautifully refurbished, and the grounds are carefully tended. The views across the hills and water of the Otago Peninsula are some of the best in the area. A trip to Larnach Castle is a great way to spend a day if visiting Dunedin.
Lake Wanaka is one of New Zealand’s largest lakes, surrounded by the mountains of Mt. Aspiring National Park. On the lake's southern shore, the town of Wanaka is a relaxed spot that offers easy access to lake-based activities: in summer, paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, and swimming are popular; in winter, skiing is available nearby.
In the rugged wilderness outside of the towns of Wanaka, Glenorchy, Makarora, and Haast, Mt. Aspiring National Park is New Zealand’s third largest park. You’ll see glaciers hanging suspended on mountainsides that are crossed by backcountry trails. Part of a UNESCO World Heritage area, this South Island landscape is truly magnificent.
Coronet Peak is New Zealand’s oldest ski field and remains a popular choice for people heading to the slopes during the southern hemisphere’s ski season. Snow bunnies can take to one of the ski field’s many trails, while sightseers can enjoy the stunning views of the Wakatipu Basin and the Southern Alps from the summit of the peak.
An archipelago of volcanic islands to Fiji’s west, the Yasawas can be challenging to get to—but the journey’s worth it if you’re looking for a more laid-back, budget-friendly escape than their better-known neighbor. Until the 1980s, the islands were relatively undeveloped, resulting in a traditional village feel and a rich island culture.
A short drive west of Auckland is Piha Beach, one of the West Coast’s most popular getaways. A small coastal village sandwiched between the Waitakere Ranges and the Tasman Sea, Piha Beach is much loved by surfers and fisherfolk alike, but it’s also a great place for everyone to explore nature, both on the coast and in the hills.
At 650 feet (200 meters), Magic Mountain is one of the highest mountains in Moorea, part of French Polynesia. Although it’s not exceptionally high, the volcanic peak is rugged and covered in thick bush, and offers great views of Moorea and beyond from the lookout near the summit.
With New Zealand’s Southern Alps in the backdrop, pretty Geraldine is a rural Canterbury hub with a creative flair. Galleries and studios dot its town center while surrounding farms supply bustling cafés with fresh ingredients. It’s also a jumping-off place for exploring the outdoors, from the rushing Rangitata River to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu).
Located at the mouth of the Kerikeri River and overlooking the peaceful Kerikeri Inlet, Kerikeri is the largest town in Northland and one of its most historic spots. Kerikeri was once the site of one of New Zealand’s oldest missionary stations and is now a tranquil subtropical getaway surrounded by waterfalls and dense kauri forest.
A highlight of any visit to Australia’s Red Centre, the Sounds of Silence is an unforgettable way to discover Uluru (Ayers Rock). From watching a romantic sunset over this nature's made landmark to dining beneath the desert's bright stars—it’s an outback experience like no other.
With more than 74 acres (30 hectares) of natural bushlands and hundreds of animal residents, Healesville Sanctuary is one of the best places in Victoria to spot native Australian animals. Kangaroos, koalas, dingoes, platypus, emus, and Tasmanian devils are just some of the many creatures that call the sanctuary home.
Located off the coast of Auckland, Hauraki Gulf’s 16 beautiful islands are ideal for outdoor activities like walking, horse riding, swimming, and dolphin- and whale-watching. From the vineyards of Waiheke to the hiking trails of Rangitoto, the birdwatching of Tiritiri Matangi to the secluded hot springs of Great Barrier, each of the islands offers something special.
The Melbourne Zoo has been open since 1862, making it Australia's oldest zoo. Modeled after the London Zoo, the Melbourne Zoo houses more than 300 species from around the world, from elephants and lions to Aussie natives like kangaroos and koalas. The zoo is also a conservation center dedicated to fighting wildlife extinction.
Located on Wellington’s waterfront, the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa (better known simply as Te Papa) holds massive collections of New Zealand art and artifacts. Hear stories from local communities, see some of the best contemporary Aotearoa art, and entertain your kids while teaching them about the world at the museum’s Discovery Centres.
As Hobart’s favorite regular market, Salamanca Market brings a sea of people and several hundred stalls to the streets of Battery Point on Saturdays. Among the long rows of kiosks and stalls, market-goers will find local produce, handicrafts, coffee, and food for sale—plus the cheerful, social atmosphere of mingling people.
Cathedral Cove—with its stunning and distinctive beach, caves, and rock formations—is the source of some of the most famous images of New Zealand. Part of the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve on the North Island’s Coromandel Peninsula, it boasts creamy sand, clear waters, and great views through its signature archway. Visit to enjoy activities such as kayaking, sailing, boating, snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat trips.
Measuring more than 33 feet (10 meters) high, these mammoth Maori sculptures were chiseled into the rocks on the edge of Lake Taupo in the late 1970s. Created by master carver Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell, the carvings depict Ngatoroirangi, who is said to have guided the Te Arawa tribes from their Polynesian homeland to New Zealand.
One of Brisbane’s most memorable landmarks, Story Bridge soars over the Brisbane River at the heart of the city. Walk, cycle, or drive across, but the most adventurous way to experience the bridge is the Story Bridge Adventure Climb, affording 360-degree panoramic views of the city below.
