The Top 10 Australian Holiday Destinations You Should Visit

As we move ever further away from Covid Lockdowns, Australians are keeping to their newfound spirit of traveling and exploring the many amazing destinations our own country has to offer. While the pandemic may well have hit the tourism industry like a ton of bricks, it placed a renewed emphasis on the opportunities available to us in our own backyard. From world-famous beach towns to the dusty red of the outback to the lush tropical rainforest, there is no shortage of incredible places to visit within Australia.

Let's explore some of the top 10 Australian holiday destinations you should visit in 2023.

Are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Look no further than the Great Barrier Reef in Far North Queensland! This incredible natural wonder is not only the world's largest coral reef, but it is also home to a stunning variety of species that will leave you in awe. And with over 2 million visitors each year, it's clear that the Great Barrier Reef is the ultimate hotspot for exciting and unforgettable tourism experiences. What's even better is the amount of knowledge you will gain from the many amazing tours and activities available. 

From snorkeling on the reef to scuba diving to sightseeing via glass-bottom boats or even submarines – the possibilities are endless!

The once sleepy New South Wales coastal town that became a hotspot for hippies, campers, and A-listers alike, Byron Bay still remains a popular choice for families. Byron Bay receives more than 1.7 million tourists from both around the country and the world each year, and it is easy to see why. The area features beautiful beaches and stunning hinterland views, including one of the most famous lighthouses in Australia. 

Whether it's for some surf lessons, whale watching, or simply just chilling at the beach, Byron Bay remains a popular choice for travellers who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The first of our two must-see holiday destinations in the Northern Territory, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park has been named by Lonely Planet as an ultimate travel destination. This iconic landmark is home to the famous Uluru and 36 other red rock domes known as the Kata Tjuta. A sacred site for the Pitjantjatjara people, the park is an incredible place to explore and learn about ancient Aboriginal culture. 

Nothing can really prepare you for the sheer immensity and grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Just don't forget to take in a beautiful sunset over Uluru -  the changing colours and serene stillness of the rock will leave you in awe!

With a reputation as the land of fun and sun, it's easy to see why the Gold Coast is one of Australia's most popular holiday destinations. Boasting more than 50 kilometres of pristine coastline and some of the best beaches in the world, it's definitely a place to soak up some rays. But there is much more than sunny sandy beaches to the Gold Coast – you will find some of the best theme parks, attractions and restaurants, not to mention a vibrant nightlife. And if shopping is more your thing, then you'll be spoilt for choice with the many malls, outlets and boutiques found throughout the city. 

Located an easy one hour drive from Brisbane, the Gold Coast is an ideal destination for a family trip to remember.

A world away from the bright lights and busy scenes of the mainland, Kangaroo Island is an amazing place to escape from it all. This small island off the coast of South Australia will captivate and inspire you with its untouched wilderness, stunning coastal scenery and abundance of native wildlife. 

Whether it's taking a leisurely stroll along one of the beaches, exploring the magical underground world of Kelly Hill caves, spotting sea lions or simply soaking in all the beauty of nature, Kangaroo Island offers visitors much to explore and discover. And for the nature lovers, be sure to check out the numerous walking trails that take you through some of the most spectacular forests and national parks in the region.

High above the hustle and bustle of Sydney lies the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains, a stunning region of waterfalls, sweeping views, and natural beauty. Here you will find some of the most spectacular natural scenery in Australia, and it's easy to see why this tranquil escape is a popular holiday spot. 

Whether you choose to spend some time browsing the quaint villages for boutiques and cafes, taking a dramatic walk along one of the cliff-hugging walking trails or just simply admiring the sea of blue that stretches out before you, the Blue Mountains has something for everyone. It's the perfect destination to explore and relax in Australia's pristine bushland.

Located approximately three hours drive from Darwin, Kakadu National Park is an incredible place where the ancient landscapes of Australia's Northern Territory collide with modern day adventures. Home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as some incredible geological features such as the Arnhem Land escarpment, Kakadu is a place of great beauty and cultural significance. 

Visitors can explore some of the most spectacular gorges in the region, take in breathtaking views of sandstone escarpments and spot an array of wildlife (including those of the reptilian variety!). For a unique experience, join one of the local Aboriginal guides and discover more about the rich history of this timeless landscape.

Oenophiles rejoice – the Margaret River wine region in Western Australia is a must-visit holiday destination for anyone who loves a good drop. Located approximately three hours drive south of Perth, this picturesque region is home to some of Australia's finest wineries, producing everything from cabernet sauvignon to chardonnay. But that's not all the Margaret River region has to offer – visitors can also explore the limestone caves or take a scenic drive along  the coastline. 

And, in case you didn't know, Margaret River plays host to more than 30,000 whales who have made the trip from the freezing waters of the Antarctic to call the region home from June to December each year. With its stunning scenery, world-class food and wine, as well as an abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy, Margaret River is a must-visit destination in Australia.

Rising up from the depths of the Pacific Ocean, this remote gem is often overlooked by travellers in favour of more well-known destinations. But don't make the mistake of bypassing Lord Howe – this former volcano turned tropical paradise is just waiting to be discovered. With its World Heritage listing and pristine natural environment, Lord Howe Island is home to a wealth of attractions, from its crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches to the unique birdlife that inhabits the island. 

A photographer's dream, Lord Howe Island is brimming with awe-inspiring landscapes and stunning  sunsets, making it the perfect spot to kick back and relax in nature.

Known as Wadjemup to the Noongar people, Rottnest Island is a popular tourist destination located just off the coast of Western Australia. This car-free island paradise is a slice of heaven on earth, with secluded beaches and breathtaking bays that will leave you in awe. It's hard to believe that such a peaceful utopia could be just 19km offshore from the bustling town of Fremantle. But once you set foot on this island, you'll feel like you've been transported to another world, a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. 

Get ready to be amazed by the tranquil beauty of this off-the-grid oasis.

Now that we have surveyed Australia's most incredible destinations, you should have no problem deciding where to go during your next holiday. Whether you're a beach bum, an adventure seeker, wildlife enthusiast or a wine lover, there is something for everyone in Australia. So what are you waiting for? It's time to pack your bags and get ready to explore some of the most beautiful and unique locations in the world.

Let's face it, many people put off going on holiday because they're worried about the cost. But by planning ahead and researching different destinations, you can find amazing places to explore that won't break the bank. Plus, with a holiday loan, you can spread the costs over a number of months so taking a road trip to a dream destination is more achievable than ever before. Why not use the unique power of Driva's innovative platform to compare loan options from our 30 lenders and find the best deal for you? So what are you waiting for? Let Driva make your holiday dreams a reality and start planning the adventure of a lifetime today. Happy travels!

What are the top 5 destinations that Australians travel to?

The top five destinations that Australians travel to are Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast and Perth.

What are the top 10 tourist destinations in Australia for overseas tourists?

The top 10 tourist destinations in Australia for overseas tourists are Sydney, Melbourne, Great Barrier Reef, Gold Coast, Uluru/Ayers Rock, Kakadu National Park, Fraser Island, Margaret River, Lord Howe Island and Rottnest Island.