Listen up, Insiders—2025 is just around the corner, and we want it to be epic. Check out our list of the top holiday destinations in Australia next year. It’s time to get planning.
Millennial and Gen Z traveller-focused
Brisbane, Queensland
Step aside, Brat Summer; there’s a new B-word capturing the hearts and minds of young explorers—it’s time to live it up with a trip to Brisbane. Word on the street is that 2025 is going to be a hot year for Queensland’s capital city, with plenty of events and festivals scheduled to entice a trendy Millennial and Gen Z crowd.
Highlights:
QAGOMA – this ultra-hip gallery hosts an abundance of unique exhibitions for lovers of art.
Brisbane Festival – marvel at the lights, colours, and sounds of this multi-platform, city-wide event in September 2025.
BIGSOUND – early-bird passes are on sale now for this massive music festival in the heart of Brisbane’s coolest neighbourhood, Fortitude Valley.
Read more: What is Brisbane Famous For?
Newcastle, New South Wales
Perched at the head of the Central Coast, Newcastle has seen tremendous expansion in the last few years. Picture all the perks of Sydney without the hour-long transit times. Newcastle in 2025 is the perfect spot for young travellers to explore beaches, nature, and nightlife without the hefty price tag.
Highlights:
Merewether Ocean Baths – the largest ocean baths in the Southern Hemisphere are free for all to have a soak. Head in at sunrise for some seriously gorgeous golden-hour snaps.
Stockton Beach – sweeping sand dunes and crystal-clear waters make this an ideal spot for a beach picnic with your pals.
Read more: A Tour of Newcastle’s Hidden Gems
Cultural Experiences
Hobart, Tasmania
For such a small city, Hobart really packs a cultural punch. If you’re interested in artistic adventures or culinary quests, this is one of the best travel destinations in Australia in 2025.
Highlights:
Dark Mofo – after a year-long hiatus, this infamous arts festival is making its highly anticipated return. Stay tuned for a full program release in April.
Mona – the Museum of Old and New Art offers a curious journey into the underbelly of the artistic world.
Salamanca Market – this vibrant waterfront market runs every Saturday with enormous fanfare.
Kings Canyon and Watarrka National Park, Northern Territory
The vast, burnt-orange plains of Kings Canyon and Watarrka National Park are a sight to behold. Deep in the heart of the Northern Territory, this destination is an all-encompassing cultural experience like no other and one of the top holiday spots in Australia in 2025.
Highlights:
Light Towers – a mesmerising art installation in the desert by artist Bruce Munro.
Kings Canyon Rim Walk – immerse yourself in living, breathing history in this awe-inspiring terrain.
Araluen Arts Centre – admire over 1,000 pieces of art that reflect the vibrancy and history of the region.
Beach Retreats
Jervis Bay, New South Wales
Just over two hours south of Sydney, Jervis Bay must be seen to be believed. Arguably the jewel of New South Wales, this small patch of paradise is the ultimate beach destination in Australia in 2025.
Highlights:
Hyams Beach – a tiny village on the southern edge of Jervis Bay with pristine waters.
Booderee National Park – the bluest water and the cutest penguin colony are waiting for you here.
Fremantle, Western Australia
For those who like their beaches with a city attached, look no further than iconic Fremantle. This inner-city oasis offers remarkably calm and clear waters for the metropolitan-minded beachgoer.
Highlights:
South Beach – a popular swimming spot surrounded by modern eateries and traditional pubs.
Leighton Beach – swim and snorkel to your heart’s content. It’s within walking distance of the train station too!
Rottnest Island– Fremantle is the gateway to this famous patch with the cutest critters.
Nature Escapes
Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges, Victoria
Famous for its spectacular scenery and mineral waters, Daylesford and the surrounding Macedon Ranges offer the perfect nature escape in Australia in 2025. Just over an hour outside of Melbourne, there is plenty to capture your attention here.
Highlights:
Hepburn Regional Park– spot historic relics from Australia’s Gold Rush while swimming in healing mineral springs.
ChillOut Festival– a four-day queer pride festival in Victoria’s LGBTQIA+ capital.
Hanging Rock—oozing with mystery and intrigue, largely famous thanks to Joan Lindsay’s Australian gothic novel Picnic at Hanging Rock.
Limestone Coast, South Australia
For incredible natural wonders and striking landscapes, head to South Australia’s Limestone Coast. This 2025 Australian destination is like no other, with prehistoric caves and enchanting swimming holes to keep you captivated.
Highlights:
Little Blue Lake – a popular swimming hole with plenty of infrastructure to keep things safe and accessible.
Mount Schank Volcano Walk – peer into the eye of a large dormant volcano.
Engelbrecht Cave– admire ancient geology in this underground labyrinth.
