From the coral reefs of Bora Bora to the adrenaline fuelled mountains of New Zealand, here are 9 must-see destinations in Australasia.

Australasia, an enormous region encompassing Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific Islands and even parts of Southeast Asia, is a part of the world I’m always itching to relive and explore. Home to fascinating indigenous cultures and incredible natural monuments, whether you’re road tripping or island hopping, there’s always a chance for adventure.

From Sydney’s urban buzz to Fiji’s serene beaches, Australasia can satisfy even the pickiest of travellers. In this article, I’ll explore important practicalities, like how to travel around the region, before listing some of the must-see destinations for your next Australasian adventure.

How to travel around Australasia

Let’s start with the basics. Australasia is vast, and to get around with limited time, you’ll need to plan your itinerary in advance and know the best routes between cities and beaches, or island nations. The quickest routes are almost always in the air, but there’s nothing like a great Australian road trip to quench your thirst for adventure.

Air Travel

Given the large distances between major destinations, flying is often the most efficient way to travel across Australasia. Major airlines such as Qantas, Air New Zealand, and Fiji Airways offer extensive routes connecting key cities and islands. Domestic flights are also common within countries, like Australia and New Zealand, making it easy to hop between cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, and Queenstown.

Road Trips

Australia’s Great Ocean Road, New Zealand’s South Island circuits, and Tasmania’s coastal drives are famous for their breathtaking views and accessible attractions. Driving allows for greater flexibility and the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path locations.

Ferries and Boats

Ferries are an excellent choice for island hopping and coastal exploration. In regions like the Whitsunday Islands, Fiji, and French Polynesia, ferries and boat tours offer scenic travel between islands, providing opportunities for sightseeing and water-based activities.

Travel Times

Travel times can vary significantly depending on the mode of transport. For example, flights from Sydney to Auckland take about three hours, while a drive along the Great Ocean Road could take several days to fully appreciate. Always consider travel times when planning your itinerary to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Entertainment and Leisure

During longer journeys, especially flights and ferry rides, entertainment options such as in-flight movies, onboard Wi-Fi, and scenic viewing decks can make the trip more enjoyable. It’s always worth having your own entertainment on hand, though. Make sure you’re well stocked with audiobooks or can access online gaming at sites like the best online casino nz. That way, you can enjoy hundreds of titles at your fingertips and now that you’re safe on a fully licensed and encrypted site. Many buses and trains also offer Wi-Fi and charging ports to keep you connected.

Australia is perfect for road tripping. Just watch out for the kangaroos. Photo credit: depositphotos.com.

Read more: Is Australia a Continent or a Country (or Both)?

Must-See destinations in Australasia

City breaks, golden sands, turquoise waters and snow-capped mountains, Australasia has it all. Here the must-see destinations to add to your itinerary.

1. Sydney, Australia

Sydney is often the first stop for travellers exploring Australasia. The city is renowned for its natural harbour, world-famous landmarks. The Sydney Opera House, an architectural marvel, is a must-visit. Take a guided tour or catch a performance to truly appreciate its beauty and acoustics. The Sydney Harbour Bridge, another iconic landmark, offers a thrilling bridge climb for panoramic views of the city and harbour.

Bondi Beach is perfect for sunbathing and surfing, while the coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee offers breathtaking ocean views. The Royal Botanic Garden provides a serene escape with its lush greenery and exotic plants. Don’t miss the historic Rocks district, with its cobblestone streets, markets, and pubs that offer a glimpse into Sydney’s colonial past.

Sydney And The Blue Mountains In Pictures
Sydney Opera House. Photo credit: Richard Collett.

2. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for any traveler to Australasia. Stretching over 2,300 kilometers, the reef is home to a diverse array of marine life. Snorkeling is one of the best ways to explore the vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful corals, fish, and other marine creatures. Popular base locations for exploring the reef include Cairns, Port Douglas, and the Whitsunday Islands.

For those who prefer to stay dry, glass-bottom boat tours and underwater observatories offer fantastic views of the reef. The reef’s beauty is matched by its fragility, making sustainable tourism practices essential. Consider eco-friendly tours that focus on conservation and educating visitors about the reef’s ecosystem.

Snorkelling With Turtles On Fitzroy Island, Cairnss.
The Great Barrier Reef. Photo credit: Richard Collett.

Read more: The Ultimate List of the Best Things to Do in Cairns Australia

3. Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown, often dubbed the adventure capital of New Zealand, is a haven for thrill-seekers. Located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and encircled by the Southern Alps, Queenstown provides a myriad of adrenaline-pumping activities, including bungee jumping, skydiving, and jet boating. During winter, the nearby ski resorts of Coronet Peak and The Remarkables draw skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts from across the globe. 

For a more relaxed experience, take a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu or enjoy the local wines at one of the many vineyards in the region. The Queenstown Gardens and Skyline Gondola provide stunning views and a chance to appreciate the area’s natural beauty. The nearby town of Arrowtown, with its well-preserved gold rush-era buildings, offers a charming glimpse into the region’s history.

Queenstown, New Zealand. Photo credit: depositphotos.com.

4. Rotorua, New Zealand

Rotorua, located on New Zealand’s North Island, is famous for its geothermal activity and Maori heritage. Visitors can explore bubbling mud pools, geysers, and hot springs at geothermal parks like Wai-O-Tapu and Te Puia. The Pohutu Geyser, in particular, is a spectacular sight, erupting up to 20 times a day. The area’s geothermal activity also means there are numerous hot springs-turned-spa where visitors can relax and rejuvenate.

The Tamaki Maori Village offers an immersive experience where visitors can learn about traditional customs, enjoy cultural performances, and partake in a hangi feast, a traditional Maori meal cooked in an earth oven. The Rotorua Museum, housed in a historic bathhouse, provides further insights into the region’s cultural heritage.

Geothermal activity in Rotorua, New Zealand. Photo credit: depositphotos.com.

Read more: Is New Zealand a Country? Everything You Need to Know.

5. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora, a small island in French Polynesia, is often described as paradise on Earth. Its stunning turquoise lagoon, overwater bungalows, and lush green peaks make it a dream destination for honeymooners and luxury travelers. Snorkelling and diving in the coral gardens, shark and ray feeding excursions, and romantic sunset cruises are some of the highlights. The Matira Beach, one of the few public beaches on the island, offers powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters.

For an unforgettable experience, hike up Mount Pahia for exceptional views of the island and its surrounding waters. Bora Bora’s lagoon is also perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking and sailing. Many luxury resorts offer spa treatments and wellness programs, allowing visitors to relax and unwind in an idyllic setting.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia. Photo credit: depositphotos.com.

6. Bali, Indonesia

Bali, the Island of the Gods, is a popular destination for many. It’s famous for its rich culture, beaches and nightlife. The island offers a mix of spiritual experiences and adventure activities. The ancient temples of Uluwatu and Tanah Lot, perched on cliffs overlooking the ocean, are must-visit sites, especially during sunset. Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, is famous for its art markets, rice terraces and monkey forest.

For beach lovers, Seminyak and Kuta offer sandy shores, great surf, and lively bars and restaurants. Bali is also a haven for wellness enthusiasts, with numerous yoga retreats and wellness centers offering programs ranging from detox to meditation. Adventure seekers can hike up Mount Batur to watch the sunrise or explore the island’s waterfalls, such as Tegenungan and Gitgit.

Images From A Local Balinese Market
Rice fields in Bali. Photo credit: Richard Collett.

Read more: How Many Countries in Southeast Asia? Everything You Need to Know.

7. Fiji Islands

Fiji, an archipelago of over 300 islands in the South Pacific, is known for its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs. It’s a fantastic destination for diving and snorkelling, with sites like the Great Astrolabe Reef offering some of the best underwater experiences. The Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands are perfect for island-hopping, with glorious beaches and resorts.

For an immersive cultural experience, visit a traditional Fijian village and take part in a kava ceremony, where you can learn about local customs and enjoy traditional Fijian hospitality. Near Nadi, the Garden of the Sleeping Giant is a stunning orchid garden that is well worth a visit. Additionally, the Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool provide a unique and relaxing experience.

Yasawa Islands, Fiji. Photo credit: depositphotos.com.

8. Tahiti, French Polynesia

Tahiti, the largest island in French Polynesia, is often the starting point for exploring the South Pacific. The island’s capital, Papeete, offers a vibrant market where you can find local crafts, fresh produce, and Tahitian black pearls. The island’s interior is lush and mountainous, with waterfalls and hiking trails like the Fautaua Valley.

Tahiti’s beaches, like La Plage de Maui and Lafayette Beach, offer black and white sand shores perfect for relaxation. The island is also a gateway to exploring other nearby islands like Moorea and Bora Bora, making it an ideal base for a South Pacific adventure.

Tahiti. Photo credit: depositphotos.com.

Read more: How Many Countries are in Oceania? Everything You Need to Know.

9. Samoa

Samoa, an island nation in the South Pacific, offers pristine beaches, lush rainforests and rich Polynesian culture. The To-Sua Ocean Trench, a large swimming hole surrounded by tropical gardens, is one of Samoa’s most famous attractions. The islands of Upolu and Savai’i offer stunning waterfalls, such as the Papapapaitai Falls and the Afu Aau Waterfall, perfect for a refreshing swim.

Traditional Samoan culture is vibrant and deeply rooted in community and family values. Visitors can experience a traditional Fiafia night, featuring Samoan dance, music, and a feast of local delicacies. Like Lalomanu Beach and Tafa Tafa Beach, Samoa’s beaches offer idyllic settings for relaxation and water activities.

Australasia is a region of incredible climatic and geographical diversity, offering everything from bustling cities and cultural experiences to stunning natural landscapes and thrilling adventures. Whether you’re exploring the sights of Sydney, diving the Great Barrier Reef, seeking thrills in Queenstown or relaxing in the luxury of Bora Bora, your Australasian adventure is guaranteed to be unforgettable. So pack your bags and get ready to explore some of the most remarkable destinations this part of the world has to offer.

There you have it, Australasia’s must-see destinations! What’s top of your bucket list?