Winter can be quite intimidating if you are not a skier, snowboarder, or lover of cold weather. Many lock themselves inside their houses and hibernate until winter is over, avoiding the cold all together, waiting for summer to return once again. Australia may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of winter destinations, but winter travel in Australia has been becoming increasingly popular over the years because of the vast array of options for things to do throughout the winter. You can head up north and kick back on the beach or pop on over to Victoria for a ski trip. Whatever you want to do, you can find it right here in your own backyard.
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If it’s snow you’re after, you’ll be sure to find it here in Australia. The places to go if you want to ski are New South Wales and Victoria. Head on over to Perisher, the largest ski resort in the southern hemisphere where you can go on over 50 lifts. There may not be much snow on the ground but once you get up to the mountains you will instantly be in the mood to spend a day on the slopes
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Yes, it is still possible to hit the beach even if it is winter. If snow isn't your thing and you are looking to spend your time catching some rays head on over to the beach. The Australian winter is fairly mild especially on the coast. Visiting Australia's most popular beaches in the winter is the time to go if you don't like crowds. As winter rolls around, the crowds disperse and the beaches will become your go to spot to hang out, read, or even take a horse out along the coast. If you are still looking for bikini weather just head north for eternal summer.
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In the winter, whales migrate north passing closely to the Australian coast making whale watching a common activity in the Australian winter. Head on over to New South Wales which is the place to go to see the whales, via a tour or on your own.
If you’re in Australia around July 5th - July 7th we also recommend heading over to Phillip Island. They’ve got a yearly whale festival celebrating the start of the whale watching season. There’s plenty of whale related stuff on every day, so if you’re a big fan of these massive marine mammals then head over to Phillip Island for a whale of a time.
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Exploring the outback in the summer or even the shoulder months, can be excruciating. The weather is hot and almost unbearable at times so if you are considering a trip to the outback, winter may be the best time to go. In order to fully experience the outback you will want to be able to explore and drive around, this is a lot easier when the weather is mild and the climate is dry so maybe wait until winter to plan your outback trip.
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Usually it’s the northern lights you hear about, flaring up in the winter months, many flock to the north to chase this allusive light show. However, the lesser known aurora in the south is just as enthralling. The best time to see them is in September, as far south as you can get. Tasmania is a common place for aurora chasers to go as it is the farthest south you can get in Australia. Check the forecast, wait until about midnight, and have a go at seeing this amazing natural phenomenon.
Australian weather is, overall, generally mild year round. If you are looking for snow, tropical beaches, or dry desserts you will be able to find all of these in the winter. The Australian winter is highly underrated but it offers up less crowds, cheaper prices, and virtually any climate you could desire all within one country.
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