Ultimate Adventure Activities in Australia

Australia is a dream destination for thrill-seekers. From skydiving over iconic coastlines to exploring the rugged Outback, there’s an adrenaline-pumping activity for every backpacker. Here’s your updated guide to the top adventure experiences across the country.

4WD Adventures in the Outback

Driving along pristine white sandy beaches on Fraser Island (K’gari) is an unforgettable adventure. Australia is a dream to anyone who wants to go off-road. Whether driving on one of the countless beaches or on one of the many unpaved roads, there are tracks in abundance.

Among the most famous four-wheel drive tracks is the Birdsville Track. This track is for people who look for an adventurous detour on their way to Uluru. And don’t miss out on driving along the Gibb River Road when you are travelling the West Coast.

Tip: Ensure your vehicle is well-equipped and check road conditions before setting out. Always have plenty of supplies with you while you are driving through remote areas of Australia

Go Shark Cage Diving (South Australia)

Embark on a thrilling adventure to come face-to-face with the majestic Great White Sharks in their natural habitat at Port Lincoln, South Australia. This unique experience, offered by Calypso Star Charters, is known for its responsible and safe approach to shark cage diving. With prices ranging from approximately AUD 350-500, you can dive into the deep blue and observe these magnificent creatures up close. The best time to embark on this adventure is between May and October, when shark activity in the area is at its peak, offering a higher chance of sightings. Prepare to have an unforgettable experience, a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with one of nature’s most formidable predators.

Spend some time on a sailing boat

You don’t get sea-sick easily and your idea of a good time is watching marine wildlife and beautiful sunsets over the ocean? Why don’t you spend a few days or even weeks on a sailing boat? You will find places to go sailing all around Australia and especially the Whitsunday Islands are popular for it.

Grab a surfboard, go scuba diving or kayaking

Besides dangerous animals and endless white beaches Australia is renowned for its surfing culture. Whether you have been surfing for years or you are just getting started you should give it a go if you are in Australia.

You find great surfing spots all along the east coast. Catch waves at some of the world’s best surf spots:

• Bondi Beach (NSW): Ideal for beginners with numerous surf schools.
• Bells Beach (VIC): Famous for hosting the Rip Curl Pro.
• Margaret River region (WA)
• Byron Bay, the Gold Coast …

If you are looking for an adventure under water grab your snorkel or scuba diving gear and explore Australia’s marine wildlife. Besides the Great Barrier Reef one of the best places to go scuba diving is the Ningaloo Reef near Exmouth on the West Coast.

Dive into the world’s largest coral reef system:

• Cairns: Gateway to numerous reef tours and dive schools.
• Port Douglas: Offers access to less crowded dive sites.

Average cost: $150–$300 AUD for introductory dives

Maybe scuba diving and surfing are not your idea of a fun time. Then how about going on a kayaking tour? You can do this in the open ocean at the beach just about anywhere. More famous places to go kayaking are along Katherine Gorge in the Northern Territory and Lake Argyle in Western Australia.

Wildlife Encounters

The Land Down Under is also well-known for its many dangerous animals. Whether crocodiles, snakes, spiders or sharks. Some people get the impression that nowhere in Australia you are safe. This beautiful country gets a bad reputation for all these animals which isn’t justified.

If you are up for an adventure why not go diving with migrating whales sharks at the Ningaloo Reef? You always wanted to see a crocodile up close? Go for a visit to Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin. And if you are looking for a more relaxed experience you can go and cuddle some Koalas at the Wildlife Habitat in Port Douglas. These are just a few of many places where you can encounter some of Australia’s beautiful and at times weird fauna.

Go bungee jumping or skydiving

New Zealand is the country that invented bungee jumping. But the invention of Mr AJ Hackett made it across the Tasman Sea as well. You can do a bungee surrounded by beautiful rainforest at the bungee jumping site in Cairns.

For those of you who look for an even bigger adrenaline rush why not throw yourself out of a plane with a parachute? You can go skydiving just about anywhere in Australia. Whether in Airlie Beach, at Uluru or even indoors.

Popular drop zones include:

• Byron Bay: Soar above pristine beaches and lush hinterlands.
• Mission Beach: Dive with views of the Great Barrier Reef.
• Rottnest Island: Enjoy aerial views of turquoise waters and unique wildlife.

Average cost: $350–$450 AUD

Try rock climbing and Abseiling

You are not afraid of hights? Then why not put on a harness and go rock climbing. You will find great places for this vertical adventure all over Australia. Among the most famous spots are Mt Arapiles and The Grampians in Victoria as well as The Blue Mountains in New South Wales. Even in the cities you can quench your thirst for adventure in one of the countless indoor rock climbing centres.

Challenge yourself with vertical adventures:

• Blue Mountains (NSW): Offers a range of climbing routes with scenic views.
• Grampians National Park (VIC): Known for its sandstone cliffs and diverse climbs.

Average cost: $150–$250 AUD for guided experiences

Stargazing in the Outback

There is nothing like the feeling of freedom when lighting up a campfire and sleeping under the stars. On your next road-trip you should consider skipping the comfortable sleep in a hostel bed every now and then. Instead you might want to spend the night in your van, your tent or even just your sleeping bag (or swag) on the ground. Having some cold drinks while you share some stories and watch the stars is unforgettable.

Tip: Bring a telescope or join guided stargazing sessions.

See the World from up High

Are you a fan of panoramic views? Then you should go and check out the Eureka Skydeck in Melbourne. If you are on the Gold Coast, SkyPoint Observation Deck offers a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the Coast from an impressive 230 meters above the ground. Located atop the iconic Q1 Building, it is Australia’s only beachside observation deck and provides visitors with an unparalleled view of the region’s stunning coastline, lush hinterland, and sleek cityscape.

If this is not exciting enough you should try and climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge. This is not for people with vertigo.

Cycle around Australia

When you are driving through Australia you will encounter the occasional cyclist on the road. However, the thought of riding along Australian highways on a push bike may not appeal to you. But there are plenty of great trails off the road. See the list below for some of the most famous trails Down Under.

• Mawson Trail, SA
• Murray River through SA, NSW and VIC
• Great Ocean Road, VIC
• Rottnest Island, WA
• Munda Biddi Trail, WA

Cycling along the Great Ocean Road offers some great views with stunning cliffs. Just a ferry ride from Perth no visit to Rottnest Island (no cars allowed over there) is complete without a selfie with a quokka.

Whether a relaxed afternoon ride or off-road cycling for several days, Australia has it all.

Skiing or Snowboarding in Australia

Skiing and snowboarding you say? That’s right. Australia gets more snow every year than Switzerland. And as the name of Australia’s highest mountain range suggests, the Snowy Mountains, you’ll find plenty of opportunities there if you are into winter sports. They are located along the border between Victoria and New South Wales. In Australia the ski season starts in early June and lasts until the beginning of October.

Road Trip through Australia

You did not really travel through Australia if you did not go on a proper road trip. Ready to go and pack up your van, your station wagon or whichever means of transport you prefer and hit the road? There is no greater sense of freedom than driving for days on end through the Land Down Under.

You haven’t made any friends yet? All you might need to do is spend some time in a hostel or put up a note on Facebook if you are looking for travel buddies. I am sure it won’t be long until you find someone to join you along the way.

Not sure what to do? Let this guide give you inspiration for adventures on your road trip. Besides visiting all the famous landmarks you come across, having some drinks with friends and sharing great experiences.

Australia is packed with adventure and there is something for everyone. With the help of this comprehensive list I am sure you’ll find something to do to get your adrenaline going on your next trip. If you feel like this list is missing something then please let us know about your favourite adventure in Australia in the comments below.