Whether you’re a fan of the cold weather or looking to escape to the heat, there’s a winter getaway suited to you. If you’re looking to embrace the cooler climate, get cosy by an open fire and maybe spot some snow, check out NSW, Victoria, South Australia, the ACT or Tasmania. If sunshine is what you need then try heading to Western Australia, the Northern Territory or Queensland. No matter where you go, you’re sure to discover the beauty that Australia has to offer.
To help you decide where to go, we’ve put together a list of the best winter getaways in Australia. Keep reading to discover these incredible destinations and start planning your trip!
The best winter getaways for cold weather
1. Cotter Campground (ACT)
Looking for a fun winter getaway that won’t break your budget? Why not try camping? Cotter Campground is only a 25 minutes drive from the Canberra CBD, but it feels like a whole new world. Set on the banks of the Cotter River, this scenic campground has access to hot showers, flush toilets, barbeques and even fireplaces, making it the perfect spot to experience mid-winter camping – just make sure you pack extra warm sleeping bags!
2. Kosciuszko National Park/Thredbo-Perisher region (NSW)
A hotspot for fun winter getaways, Kosciuszko National Park is one of the best places to see snow in Australia. The park is also very close to the Thredbo-Perisher area, a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding. In the region, you’ll find an array of accommodation options, including cosy chalets and hotel rooms, making it an excellent spot for a romantic winter getaway if that’s what you’re seeking.
3. Port Stephens (NSW)
Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean you have to avoid going to the beach! While you might not want to go for a swim, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a crisp walk along the sand. Port Stephens is a two-and-a-half-hour drive north of Sydney and offers beautiful beaches and great hiking. If you’re lucky, you may even score a whale sighting during the May-November migration season. Nothing makes for an amazing winter getaway like seeing Australia’s amazing wildlife!
4. Naracoorte Caves (SA)
South Australia may be best known for its sprawling wineries, but if wine isn’t your thing, then there’s still plenty to do in the winter. For example, why not venture underground and explore the World Heritage-listed Naracoorte Caves? The site is over 800,000 years old and one of the world’s most important fossil sites. Camp here for a few days to take in all the area has to offer, including guided tours and even adventure caving – but be warned: this is not for the faint-hearted! Located roughly a four-hour drive from Adelaide, this is a great spot for a weekend getaway if you’re in the South Australian capital.
5. Mount Mawson (Tasmania)
Mount Mawson is the perfect place for a cold-weather winter getaway. Purchase a day pass and take to the slopes to put your skiing or snowboarding skills to the test. Make a weekend of it by camping at the Mt Field National Park campground or rent a hut for a few nights at The Government Huts near Lake Dobson. The huts are priced at $45 per night and bookings are essential.
6. Mount Buller (Victoria)
Located a three-hour drive from Melbourne, Mount Buller is a go-to spot for a weekend getaway in Victoria. Here, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking range of ski slopes, perfect for beginners and pros alike. Renowned as one of the best ski resorts in Australia, there are plenty of snow-related activities, cosy restaurants and stunning views to take in here.
Best winter getaways for hot weather
7. Kakadu National Park (NT)
If you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway in the Northern Territory, why not take a trip to Kakadu National Park? As winter is the dry season, it’s unlikely to rain on your trip, and you won’t be bothered by annoying bugs as you explore. The area is also rich in Aboriginal culture, with over 5,000 art sites illustrating Aboriginal life, animals and more. In fact, some artworks are dated as being more than 20,000 years old! There are a number of options for accommodation in the park itself, or you can easily make your visit a day trip from Darwin.
8. Cape York (Queensland)
If you want to leave all thoughts of cold weather behind, we’d definitely suggest checking out Cape York. Located at the very top of Queensland, temperatures will sit in the high 20s every day, meaning there’s no jumper needed. Explore beautiful rainforest scenery and pristine beaches, or be a bit more adventurous and try out one of the many epic four-wheel driving tracks. There are also plenty of (crocodile-free) swimming locations and excellent hiking trails, making this one of the best winter getaways in the state.
9. Broome (WA)
If you love warm weather, then winter is the best time to visit the northern region of Western Australia – because it won’t feel like winter at all! Between June and August, Broome’s top temperatures average over 30ºC during the day, with low humidity and little chance of rain. Soak up the sunshine, get out on the water and explore the towns that make up this fascinating region. You can find a full list of fun things to do and see in Broome here.
