Dramatic coastlines, volcanic peaks and cascading waterfalls - Australia’s natural wonders are among the most famous and treasured in the world. Shaped by the elements and aeons of time, each place tells its own story of rich geological and cultural history, whether you're after adventure, serenity or to simply witness the power of nature. Pack your bags and come with us to discover the magic of the natural wonders of Australia.
12 Apostles, Victoria
The Twelve Apostles are a must-visit when driving along the Great Ocean Road. Image from Tourism Australia.
One of Australia’s most iconic natural wonders, the 12 Apostles are a must-see on Victoria’s famed Shipwreck Coast. A series of crumbling limestone stacks that rise majestically from the Southern Ocean, these towering formations were created millions of years ago as they eroded from the cliffs. In recent years, their number has reduced to eight as the stacks succumb to the pounding surf below, but the site remains an awe-inspiring symbol of natural beauty and the raw power of the ocean.
Time your visit at sunrise or sunset, when the stacks and towering cliffs are bathed in golden light, in dramatic contrast to the deep blue of the ocean. The sheer size and scale of the 12 Apostles are guaranteed to take your breath away. In fact, all along the Great Ocean Road, you’ll find stunning viewpoints, coastal walks and wildlife-watching opportunities, including sightings of koalas and kangaroos.
Where to stay
Relax in comfortable accommodation in the vibrant coastal city of Warrnambool, close to the 12 Apostles and other natural wonders on the Great Ocean Road.
Glass House Mountains, Queensland
Beautiful sunrise at the Glass House Mountains. Image from Tourism Australia.
Like a scene from Jurassic Park, this cluster of ancient volcanic peaks rising up out of the lush Sunshine Coast hinterland is a spectacular sight. Formed over 25 million years ago, the steep, craggy peaks, including Mount Tibrogargan and Mount Beerwah, create a dramatic contrast to the surrounding landscape. Named by Captain Cook, the Glass House Mountains are spiritually significant to the traditional owners of the Sunshine Coast, the Kabi Kabi and Jinibara peoples.
A popular area for hiking, climbing and exploring, there are plenty of walking trails to choose from, or you can simply admire the views from one of the picturesque lookouts. Mount Ngungun is a popular hike open all year round with sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and countryside. You can also take a short stroll to the Glass House Mountains Lookout for panoramic vistas of the peaks and wildlife spotting.
Where to stay
Enjoy your stay in resort-style self-contained apartments at First Light Mooloolaba or luxury apartments by the beach at Breeze Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast.
Organ Pipes National Park, Victoria
A short drive north of Melbourne, you’ll find one of the most unusual rock formations in Australia, recognised around the world as a site of geological significance. Formed through the cooling and cracking of molten lava flows over a million years ago, the striking hexagonal basalt columns, some of them a metre across, resemble the pipes of a giant organ.
There are several walking trails that weave around this geological wonder, including other intriguing basalt formations such as the Rosetta Stone that looks like the spokes of a wheel, and the mosaic-like Tessellated Pavement plus four-million year old fossils. Organ Pipes is the perfect day-trip destination from Melbourne, giving you the chance to see fascinating volcanic history up close surrounded by beautiful nature.
Where to stay
Stay nearby in modern, luxury accommodation at the award-winning Quality Hotel Taylors Lakes, with the region’s natural wonders within easy reach.
Staircase to the Moon, Western Australia
The Staircase to the Moon happens between March and October. Image from Tourism Western Australia.
One of the most magical natural phenomena in Australia, the Staircase to the Moon is an unforgettable event that occurs along the Kimberly and Pilbara coastline of Western Australia. As the full moon rises up over the exposed tidal flats, the moonlit reflection creates an optical illusion of a shining staircase soaring up to the starry sky above.
One of the best locations to witness this captivating event, which happens two or three nights a month from March to October, is Hearson’s Cove, near Karratha. The wide and expansive mud flats make it one of Pilbara’s best vantage points for the phenomenon, and is one of the top things to do in Karratha. The Staircase to the Moon, Karratha is a truly magical sight, offering a rare opportunity to experience an illusion of nature.
Where to stay
Close to Hearson’s Cove, Comfort Inn & Suites Karratha is a great option near restaurants, cafes and other Karratha attractions.
Mount Gambier Blue Lake, South Australia
Head down to the Limestone Coast to see the Blue Lake. Image from South Australia Tourism Commission.
In the crater of an ancient volcano, Mount Gambier’s Blue Lake is another geological wonder, renowned for its vibrant cobalt-blue waters. It’s one of four crater lakes on dormant Mount Gambier, which erupted from the surrounding plains around 4,500 years ago. Dissolved limestone particles give the water its distinctive colour. In the warmer months, it showcases an intense blue that changes to slate grey throughout the year.
Nearby, in the Kanawinka volcanic area between Mount Schank and Mount Gambier, you’ll find its smaller counterpart, Little Blue Lake. A volcanic sinkhole where experienced swimmers can enjoy a refreshing dip, the small lake is ringed by steep-sided cliffs. You can access the pool by the stairs and a floating pontoon that extends out over the vivid blue-green waters, 25m deep at its shallowest point.
Where to stay
The perfect base for exploring the area, Comfort Inn The Lakes is located on the edge of the Crater Lakes with spectacular views and access to all the things to do in Mount Gambier.
Headings Cliffs Lookout, South Australia
Enjoy the view from a boat, canoe or kayak, or climb the tower platform for a higher vantage point. Image from South Australian Tourism Commission
Heading north to South Australia’s Riverland region, the Headings Cliffs on the banks of the Murray River, are a nature photographer’s dream. Picture golden limestone cliffs plunging dramatically into the river, with a lookout providing panoramic views over the magnificent landscape. The cliffs’ vibrant layers of ochre and gold glow vividly during sunrise and sunset, in striking contrast with the sky above and the water below.
Enjoy the view from a boat, canoe or kayak, or climb the tower platform for a higher vantage point. Take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, watching out for local wildlife, such as kangaroos and native birds. The nearby wineries, breweries and orchards also make it a fantastic spot to explore South Australia’s rural charms.
Where to stay
Base yourself in nearby Barmera and enjoy spacious and comfortable accommodation at the Comfort Inn & Suites Riverland, with golf course views, a seasonal outdoor pool and tennis courts.
Litchfield National Park, Northern Territory
One of the Territory’s best-kept secrets! Image from Tourism Australia.
Known for its stunning waterfalls, magnetic termite mounds and idyllic swimming holes, Litchfield National Park, an hour’s drive south of Darwin, is a true natural wonder of the Top End. One of the Territory’s best kept secrets, Litchfield is an ancient landscape shaped by the water that flows off the sandstone plateau of the Tabletop Range.
Follow the shady walking trail through monsoonal forest to one of the park’s most beautiful spots, Surprise Creek Falls. A tranquil series of cascades nestled amid lush greenery, the falls plunge into large clear pools perfect for swimming and relaxing in, offering a cool respite on a summer's day. Other popular swimming holes include Wangi Falls, Florence Falls and Buley Rockhole.
Where to stay
After a big day exploring Litchfield National Park attractions, enjoy modern, resort-style accommodation conveniently located minutes from the airport at Quality Hotel Darwin Airport.