Australia Day Long Weekend Activity Guide
There’s nothing that excites me more than a long weekend. But with a long weekend comes the responsibility of using that extra day off wisely.
Under normal circumstances, the occasional binge-sesh of Sex and the City re-runs is a totally legit way to spend your Saturday, BUT when it comes to Australia Day, I’m a firm believer in spending as much time as possible in the great outdoors. So to ensure you #liveeverylastminute this Australia Day long weekend, here’s my top picks for experiences guaranteed to get you out there. Get ready for the best weekend ever!
Island Escapes
If you’re short on time but in need of some serious R&R, why not take a daytrip to one of Australia’s beautiful islands? Unwind with a cocktail at picture-perfect Daydream Island, or check out Moreton Island – a great option for those living in Bris Vegas!
Retreat to the Islands for a day – book here.
If a daytrip isn’t going to cut it, check in and check out these island hot spots (in no particular order):
- Hamilton Island
- Magnetic Island
- Rottnest Island
- Kangaroo Island
- Phillip Island
- Fraser Island
- Daydream Island
- Lord Howe Island
- Green Island
- Norfolk Island
Crikey!
If you’re looking for a genuinely unique and Aussie adventure, take a trip to Darwin to try out the world’s only Salt Water Crocodile Cage Diving experience. Get up close to fascinating and prehistoric creatures at Crocosaurus Cove – you can read all about lastminute lovely Nihal’s experience here.
If you don’t quite want to get quite that close, check out Australia Zoo. Try out your best “Crikey!” and catch the Wildlife Warriors show.
Australia Zoo – crikey!
Entertaining the kids
As much as we all love a long weekend, if you’ve got little ones it can sometimes be difficult keeping them entertained. If you’re stuck for family activities, here’s a couple of tried and tested kid-friendly attractions that are sure to put a smile on everyone’s face.
Ahoy there, matey! Take the kids out for a magical day on Sydney Harbour with this Attack of the Pirates Tall Ship Theatrical Cruise. It’s a swashbuckling adventure that’s both fun and educational.
It’s also a good idea to have a few all-weather activities up your sleeve. A Sydney attractions Combo Pass gives you admission to a couple of Sydney favourites. Choose from SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, WILD LIFE Sydney, Sydney Tower Eye, Madame Tussauds, and Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary.
Sydney is great, but there’s a reason why Queensland’s one of Australia’s top family destinations; it’s a mecca for kid’s activities. Experience the famous Big 9 Thrill Rides at Dreamworld. Ride the roller coasters at Movie World, encounter abundant wildlife at Sea World, and slide down the Super 8 at Wet ‘n’ Wild with a 3 for 3 Theme Park Pass.
Speaking of Wet ‘n’ Wild, check out this water slide like none other in Australia – the infamous Aqualoop.
Get gnarly
From Bondi to Bells, one of the best places to spend your Australia Day long weekend is at the beach. Rather than lazing the day away working on your tan, book yourself in for a surfing lesson. You’re guaranteed to have a blast, even if you do wipe out! Get surfin’ here.
Set sail
Sometimes it’s difficult rounding up all your mates, but there’s something that almost everyone’s up for – spending a few hours on the water. Although it may sound exxy, when a group of you chip in chartering a yacht is a really affordable and special way to spend a few hours.
Get on the water with Sydney Harbour Luxury Sailing
See more sailing activities here.
Enjoy a few bevvies
A drink with friends is standard Australia Day practice, but for something different go straight to the source. Whether you like your wines chilled and crisp or fruity and bold, there’s a wine region bottling up your perfect drop right now. Book a tour here.
Not to harp on alcohol, but this is a long weekend guide. We know wine’s not for everyone (we hear you, lads), so if the amber ale is more your thing, hop on a beer-tasting experience. You’ll be amazed by how much you learn about your favourite bevvies! Plus with tours starting at just $25, it’s cheaper than buying a round at a bar. Book your beer-tasting experience here.
It was great guide to Australia. Really very informative. Thanks to Brittany for a greater explanation