8 Of The Best Holiday Destinations In Australia For Over 65s

Australia is known for its beaches, Aboriginal culture, wine country and gorgeous rainforests. There’s SO much to see down under, right in our backyard. So, if you’re looking for your next travel destination, why not see all that the world’s largest island has to offer?

To help get that itinerary started, here are our top travel destinations in Australia for over 65s. (We’ve included one recommendation for each Australian state and territory – ‘cause everyone loves a bit of variety.)

Daylesford, VIC

Famous for its wine tastings and day spas, Daylesford is the best place to relax and unwind. Located just a 90-minute drive southwest of Melbourne, this is the ideal getaway location for people at any stage of life.

Visit the Lavendula Swiss Italian Farm (just 10 minutes outside of the town) and take your pick of some of the best wineries and cellar doors in the area, including those in nearby Blampied and Kangaroo Hills. There is so much to do in Daylesford and its surroundings, however, it is also the perfect holiday destination for those looking to slow down and enjoy the serenity. 

Tip: If you’d like to experience the joy and acceptance of Daylesford, in March each year, the town plays proud host to ChillOut Festival – Australia’s number one Queer Country Pride Festival. All of the businesses in the area have been LGBTQIA+ friendly for over two decades, with some even crowning the town ‘the gay capital of regional Victoria’! Check the ChillOut Festival dates in advance and head on down in March!

Barossa Valley, SA

Located about an hour out of Adelaide, the Barossa Valley is South Australia’s award-winning wine region, with more than 150 wineries and a whopping 80 cellar doors... but you don’t have to love Shiraz or a good sparkling to have a good time.

Have you ever wanted to take a trip in a hot air balloon? If it’s on your bucket list, make it happen! Float over vineyards and enjoy a delicious breakfast upon landing, check out the Barossa Farmers Market on Saturday mornings, or go wild and make your own gin.

There are so many unmissable experiences in the Barossa Valley … you’ll be talking about your trip for years to come!

Rottnest Island, WA

Always wanted a selfie with a quokka (or kwoka in Noongar)? Now is the time to do it. (We mean, it’s basically an Aussie rite of passage at this point). But, cute and (strangely photogenic) macropods aside, there’s plenty for seniors and families to do on Rottnest Island, which sits just offshore from the city of Perth.

If you’re a water baby, you can go for a swim, surf or snorkel. Or, don your fishing gear and head on out for a relaxing fishing adventure. The locals are laid-back and the beaches are breathtaking, making this the place to escape to in the summer (where the rainfall is at its lowest) … or all year round!

Uluru, NT

Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock) is a large sandstone monolith in the ‘Red Centre’. Uluru is thought to have started forming about 550 million years ago and sits within Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, which also includes the 36 red-rock domes of the Kata Tjuta (also known as ‘The Olgas’ formation).

For the local Aboriginal people, the Anangu, the World Heritage-listed location is where earth and memories live as one. Here, you can walk with a Traditional Owner, take a camel tour, or drive around yourself. In fact, there are 100+ culturally appropriate activities to experience in the area. A bucket list trip, for sure.

Great Barrier Reef, QLD

Also a UNESCO World Heritage-listed location, Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef has notable scientific and environmental importance. The reef supports tens of thousands of marine and terrestrial species and contains about 400 species of corals (as well as sea life species that are threatened with extinction).

With numerous tropical islands dispersed amongst the reef, many of these islands have been transformed into tropical havens, making them excellent getaways for holidayers. The Great Barrier Reef is also one of the most popular snorkel and dive destinations in the world, with various tour companies able to cater to people of all ages and abilities. If you’re escaping a cold winter, Queensland’s warm weather and tropical oasis-like scenery are bound to perk you up – big time. 

Hobart, TAS

Art museums, delicious seafood and breathtaking scenery. Say hello to Tassie’s capital, Hobart, where it’s impossible to feel bored. Satisfy your artistic side by spending the day at MONA, take your pick of casual or fine-dining establishments to eat, and be sure to swing by the popular Salamanca Markets on Saturdays. 

If you love a road trip, there are plenty of places to visit near Hobart. Take a day or an overnight trip to Bruny Island (where fresh oysters and artisan cheese are abundant), spot wildlife and enjoy the gorgeous natural landscapes in Cradle Mountain, or learn about history at the Port Arthur Historic Site. If the drive there and back is slightly too much adventure for the day, be sure to book overnight accommodation in advance, and or make a weekend out of it!

Canberra, ACT

Ah, Canberra – Australia’s capital city (colloquially known as ‘the Bush capital’) and home to Parliament House, Government House and the High Court. The capital is known for being a 100% renewable energy city, with about 70% of the state dedicated to nature parks.

With picturesque views each autumn, fresh winter truffles, spring floral festivals and fascinating exhibitions throughout the year, there’s more than meets the eye in Canberra, ACT. Take the family along, enjoy a getaway with a partner, or do it solo. With plenty of family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures and museums, Canberra is a great place to visit all year round. 

Lake Macquarie, NSW 

Go boating, explore the sea caves, or spend the day at the beach at Lake Macquarie. As Australia’s largest coastal saltwater lake, it really is a sight to see (it’s twice the area and volume as Sydney Harbour. Yeah, you got that right!) Go for a peaceful walk around Watagans National Park or see a waterfall along Gap Creek Falls track. It’s also a great place to fish, or go on a cruise (see, we have nothing against cruises. Really, we don’t).

Wrap up 

Gather your loved ones and kick those plans into gear (or, pack those bags and do it solo!) Whatever location you choose, you’re bound to have a great time in sunny Australia.

Get those affairs in order now, so you can press GO on life without worrying about all the serious paperwork stuff. Start your Will online today and book those travel plans tomorrow. Safe travels!