Top 10 Things to Do on a Gap Year in Australia

1. Dive Deep at the Great Barrier Reef

Go swimming, snorkelling or scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef which has bio-doversity unlike many places in the world. There are lots of excursions taking you to the Great Barrier Reef, we recommend a glass bottom boat so you can look out for spectacular coral and marine life. You can also join fishing and yachting trips. View our Australia scuba diving directory for more information.

 

2. Journey to the Bay of Fires

Go off the beaten track through the outback or visit Tasmania’s Bay of Fires which covers almost 30 kilometers of the North-East coast and includes some of the best beaches in the world. These are almost deserted compared to mainland Australia so you will be able to relax, enjoy the surroundings and take everything in. We have a selection of budget tours in Australia where you can join a small group and explore more of the country.

 

3. Spend New Years Eve in Sydney

No Australia gap year would be complete without seeing New Years Eve celebrations in Sydney, you might have watch the famous fireworks display over the Sydney harbour bridge on television, but in real life its a lot better when thousands of people desend on the area for one big party. It's also summer during this time of the year and so you will also stay warm till the early hours.

 

4. East Coast Road Trip

There are so many options from joining a bus tour or hiring a car and you can also stop off at so many places like Sydney, Brisbane, Newcastle, Cairns and Byron Bay. The East Coast is very tourist but the coastline is spectacular with some great beaches, there is nightlife to be found everywhere. This is one of the best things you can do on a gap year in Australia.

 

5. Visit the Northern Territories

See the Outback, Darwin is an up and coming destination and its also one of the hottest places in the world. The sky at night is truely spectacular where you can see stars and clear spaces for miles around.

 

6. Sunrise at Ayers Rock

Join a camping trip from Alice Springs - the mystical rock is well worth the effort and time spent getting there. There are lots of camping trips or you could travel independently. Watching sunrise here is spectacular especially when the light turns the rock different colours.

 

7. Ride the Great Ocean Road

Hire a car with some friends / family or join a tour to drive the Great Ocean Road which is one of the best routes in the world!

 

8. Sailing in the WhitSunday Islands

See the WhitSunday islands on an island hopping tour. This region of the world is simple spectacular and you'll see spectacular white beaches where you can relax or go swimming or snorkelling.

 

9. 4x4 Fraser Island Adventure

Explore Fraser Island on an off road 4x4 adventue and get a picture of Lake Macenzie which is stunningly perfect. This island is an adventure and nature seekers paradise which you can explore

 

10. Stay Longer

If you would like to spend more than just a holiday sightseeing you can apply to work in Australia! There are lots of flexible working holidays available, where you can stay for 1 year and longer. You will get to see a lot more of the country and make new friends from all over the world. If you are looking to gain work experience there are also lots of internships in Australia. Some people choose to take a TEFL course then apply for TEFL jobs in Australia or for something more rewarding view our Australia volunteer opportunities where you can coach sports or help wildlife.