While it may be a winter wonderland in the USA, summer is just starting to heat up south of the equator. If you find yourself wanting a break from snowball fights and hot cocoa, consider taking a plane ride to Australia to soak up some sun! Here are a few of the best places to visit if you end up Down Under this season.
Byron Bay
Byron Bay is on the coast New South Wales and is the perfect beach destination. At Byron Bay, you can surf, scuba dive, or just tan in the sun. If you go during the months of June and November, you might even be able to spot a humpback whale or two out in the ocean. And be sure to visit the Cape Byron lighthouse before you leave. With markets, festivals, and restaurants galore, there’s always something new to do in Byron Bay.
Philip Island
Philip Island lies just off the coast of Melbourne and has something fun for everyone to enjoy. If you’re a racing fan, then you have your pick of car and motorcycle races that take place right on the island. If you’re an animal lover, then you can visit a colony of Australian fur seals at the Nobbins outcrop on the island. But when it’s sunset, be sure to go to Summerland Beach to watch groups of penguins waddle from the water back onto the beach for the night. This is called the Penguin Parade, and it’s a must-see event if you’re ever on the island.
Uluru
Uluru, also known as Ayers rock, is a large rock formation located further inland. Uluru is part of the Australian desert and has several hiking paths to enjoy. It is the largest monolith rock in the world, meaning the entire structure is composed of a single rock. Also, Uluru is the source of many legends, and many peoples believe Uluru was created by spirits at the dawn of time itself. People native to that area believe that Uluru is sacred, and visitors are encouraged to learn more about the monolith’s cultural significance.
—Natalie Ann Davis