Australia is famous for its diverse landscapes, laid-back lifestyle and endless sunshine – and December is one of the best times to experience it all. As the start of summer, the days are long and warm, beach culture comes alive and cities and coastal towns across the country are in full swing for the holiday season.
Whether you’re craving turquoise waters, wildlife encounters, world-class food and wine or a resort-style escape, there’s a destination to suit every style of traveller.
Here are five top spots to visit in Australia this December.
1. Perth & Rottnest Island, WA
Perth shines in December, with long sunny days, warm ocean water and a calendar buzzing with summer events. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed city break with easy access to world-class beaches and outdoor adventures. Rottnest Island, just a short ferry ride from the city, offers an idyllic day trip with pristine bays, snorkelling spots and the chance to meet one of Australia’s friendliest native animals – the quokka.
Highlights:
- Swim or snorkel at Cottesloe, Scarborough, and other iconic beaches
- Explore Elizabeth Quay and Perth’s growing dining and bar scene
- Take a ferry to Rottnest Island to cycle between secluded bays
- Snap a photo with a quokka – the island’s famous residents
- Enjoy spectacular sunsets over the Indian Ocean
2. Jervis Bay, NSW
For a quieter coastal escape, Jervis Bay offers soft white sands, turquoise waters and wildlife in abundance. December’s warm temperatures are ideal for beach days, swimming, kayaking and coastal walks, and there’s plenty of opportunity to spot dolphins cruising through the bay. With national parks close by, visitors can easily combine beach relaxation with bushland exploration.
Highlights:
- Sink your toes into the powder-white sand of Hyams Beach
- Join a dolphin-watching cruise – sightings are common year-round
- Wander through Booderee National Park’s walking trails and botanic gardens
- Safe, calm beaches perfect for families and water sports
- Stargazing and peaceful holiday vibes away from the city rush
3. Cairns & the Great Barrier Reef, QLD
December brings warm tropical weather and vibrant marine life to Cairns – a launchpad for some of Australia’s most unforgettable natural experiences. Travellers can dive or snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, journey into the ancient Daintree Rainforest, or cool off in freshwater swimming holes. While summer showers are possible, they’re usually brief and help keep the region lush and green.
Highlights:
- Snorkel or scuba dive the Great Barrier Reef
- Ride the Kuranda Skyrail over rainforest canopy
- Discover the Daintree, the world’s oldest tropical rainforest
- Relax in Cairns’ lagoon or explore buzzing night markets
- Adventure opportunities including rafting, zip-lining and wildlife tours
4. Whitsundays, QLD
With postcard-perfect scenery at every turn, the Whitsundays are a dream December destination. Expect shimmering turquoise water, protected islands and one of the most famous beaches on Earth – Whitehaven Beach. Whether you’re sailing, lounging by the pool in Airlie Beach or taking scenic flights, it’s the ultimate tropical getaway.
Highlights:
- Stroll the pure white silica sands of Whitehaven Beach
- Sail between 74 islands surrounded by coral reefs
- Scenic flights over Heart Reef for unbeatable views
- Snorkelling with colourful fish and turtles
- Luxury resorts and sunset cruises for special occasions
5. Adelaide & Barossa Valley, SA
Adelaide offers a laid-back city break combined with easy access to award-winning food and wine. December is perfect for blending beach time with winery tours, as nearby Glenelg and Henley Beach deliver relaxed summer charm. Just an hour from the city, the Barossa Valley invites visitors to taste world-renowned wines and learn the stories behind historic vineyards.
Highlights:
- Sip your way through cellar doors in the Barossa Valley
- Enjoy Adelaide’s café culture, dining scene and local markets
- Spend warm days by the coast at Glenelg or Semaphore
- Visit museums, galleries and botanical gardens
- Summer festivals and live music throughout the city
Australia is home to some of the world’s most unique landscapes, and there’s no better time to explore them than the start of summer. So pack the sunscreen, plan your route and make the most of the sunshine – your next great holiday could be just around the corner.
Images: Shutterstock
