5 best places to spend Christmas in Australia
These are the best places to soak up some Christmas cheer around the country.
Bondi Beach, Sydney
If you don’t mind the crowds, then there’s nothing quite like Bondi Beach on Christmas Day. It becomes a sort of unofficial home for ‘orphans’ – travellers or backpackers who don’t have family to see for the day. There’s a festive atmosphere on the beach all day, with lots of people dressed up, music playing and (hopefully) plenty of sunshine.
Lord Howe Island
Be the first people in the country to see Christmas Day on Lord Howe Island, sitting off the east coast of New South Wales. The island is only small and there’s a great sense of community, which is only heightened on this special day. Santa will make a visit and there will be plenty of afternoon drinks or beach barbecues to join in.
Yarra River, Melbourne
Forget cooking (and cleaning up) – hop onboard a ship on Melbourne’s Yarra River for a relaxing three-hour Christmas lunch cruise with all the trimmings. You’ll get to eat and drink your fill while cruising slowly past Melbourne’s most famous sights, and you’ll be home just in time for that essential afternoon nap.
Great Barrier Reef, Queensland
Who needs Christmas lights when you can have Christmas corals? Cruises depart from lots of marinas along the coast and you can spend a relaxing Christmas Day snorkelling, swimming and sunbathing with friends and family. A tasty lunch and a few drinks will be included, plus you’ll have some incredible memories to share – and no one will start a fight over the turkey.
Wellington Square, Perth
Christmas is a time for giving, so if you’d like to take the opportunity to give something back to those less fortunate then sign up for Mission Australia’s Christmas Lunch in the Park in Perth. More than 2,000 people attend each year for lunch, friendship and support, with over 300 volunteers making it possible. The event is always popular so you’ll need to sign up early to offer your services.
Where are you spending Christmas this year?