Journey through Australia’s diverse states—from rugged outback to stunning coastlines—with practical tips for planning your multi-state Australia tour.
Introduction
Australia spans over 7.6 million square kilometers, making it the sixth-largest country on earth. Exploring Australia by state reveals a continent of contrasts: from remote deserts and red-rock outback to rainforests, surf beaches, and vibrant cities. Whether you crave wild adventure or coastal holidays, this state-by-state Australia guide unlocks regional highlights for every explorer.
New South Wales to Queensland: Coastlines and Outback Contrasts
Travel Australia regions starting in New South Wales, the nation’s most populous state and cultural heart. Sydney’s iconic Opera House and Harbor Bridge are just the beginning—beyond the city, explore the Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley vineyards, and the coastal havens of Byron Bay and Jervis Bay. For the best of New South Wales travel, combine city tours with beach escapes and day-trips to historic towns.
Heading north, Queensland delivers classic Australia outback to coast drama. The tropical north features the Great Barrier Reef, ancient Daintree Rainforest, and vibrant Cairns. The southern coast boasts the Gold Coast’s sparkling beaches. For Queensland outback adventures, go west to long reach or Mount Isa for wide-open skies, heritage stock routes, and Aboriginal culture. Queensland is the perfect state for a mix of reef exploration, rainforest walks, and outback road trips.
Victoria, South Australia, and Tasmania: From Drives to Delights
Victoria offers compact, diverse journeys, famous for spectacular coastal drives like the Great Ocean Road3. Melbourne, the cultural capital, is known for art, coffee, and sport, but within a few hours, you can reach snowy mountains, surf beaches, or the wild scenery of the Grampians. Add Victoria coastal drives or winery visits to your Australia itinerary for beginners.
Traveling west, South Australia blends arid outback with world-class food and wine. Adelaide anchors the region, with easy access to Barossa Valley vineyards and Fleurier Peninsula beaches. South Australia must-see spots include the pink salt lakes, rugged Flinders Ranges, and dramatic Kangaroo Island, home to native kangaroos, koalas, and pristine beaches. Experience authentic Australian outback experiences in the state’s vast interior.
Across Bass Strait, Tasmania feels a world apart. Famous for wild scenery, the state offers ancient rainforests, alpine lakes, and convict-era history. Hobart’s markets and MONA museum delight culture seekers, while Tasmania travel tips always include the Bay of Fires, Cradle Mountain, and Bruney Island for wilderness escapes and coastal holiday ideas.
Western Australia & the Northern Territory: Wilderness and Wonders
Western Australia is the country’s largest state, famed for epic road trips and untamed nature. The capital Perth blends city style with Indian Ocean beaches. Western Australia highlights include the wild Kimberley, where dramatic gorges and red deserts meet isolated waterfalls. Drive south for wine and waves along Margaret River, or west to coral coast gems like Ningaloo Reef and Shark Bay, home to ancient stromatolites and whale sharks.
The Northern Territory is Australia’s spiritual heart. The Top End brims with wildlife, waterfalls, and Aboriginal culture—don’t miss Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks. The famed Red Centre is home to Uluru (Ayers Rock) and the Alice Springs outback hub, where vast sands and ancient landscapes tell the story of the continent itself. A Northern Territory travel guide isn’t complete without star gazing, camel rides, and learning about Australia’s oldest living cultures.
Planning Your Multi-State Australia Tour
A true exploring Australia by state itinerary needs smart planning.
- Australia road trip itinerary: Consider iconic routes like Sydney to Cairns, the Null arbor crossing (South Australia to WA), or Hobart to Cradle Mountain.
- Transport: Domestic flights connect major cities; road travel—whether by car or campervan—offers unmatched flexibility for regional detours.
- Seasonality: Northern states (Queensland, NT, WA) are best in the winter (May–September), while southern states shine in spring or autumn.
- Travel Australia regions: Blend metropolitan days with nature escapes—most states let you combine coast, outback, and rainforest within a single journey.
Don’t miss local food and wildlife experiences—Australia’s seafood, native bush foods, and world-class wines are regionally distinct.
