Australia in December is an absolute treat! The country is buzzing with holiday spirit, summer adventures, and stunning natural wonders that make it a dream destination. While the rest of the world is wrapped in winter coats, Australia is soaking up the sun, making it the perfect time for beach outings, outdoor festivals, and wildlife encounters. Whether you're chasing the iconic Sydney fireworks, exploring the Great Barrier Reef, or taking a road trip along the breathtaking Great Ocean Road, there's something magical about December down under.
Picture yourself surfing along Bondi Beach, watching kangaroos hop around in the wild, or enjoying a Christmas barbecue under the warm Aussie sun. From exploring lush rainforests and stunning coastlines to indulging in the festive celebrations of vibrant cities like Sydney and Melbourne, every moment here feels like an adventure.
In this blog, we'll take you through the top 5 things to do in Australia in December, whether you're a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or someone who just wants to soak in the festive vibes.
1. Celebrate Christmas the Aussie Way – Beach, BBQs & Festivities
December in Australia isn't about white snow and hot chocolate; it's about golden beaches, chilled beers, and outdoor celebrations. Christmas here has a unique charm, blending festive traditions with the country's laid-back summer vibes.
One of the best places to experience Christmas in Australia is Bondi Beach in Sydney. Every year, thousands of travelers and locals gather here for a sun-kissed Christmas celebration. Instead of cozying up by a fireplace, imagine basking under the sun, building sandcastles, and surfing the waves. Beachgoers in Santa hats and reindeer antlers make the experience even more fun!
If you prefer a quieter setting, head to Noosa or Byron Bay for a more relaxed coastal Christmas. Families and friends often gather in parks for a Christmas barbecue, with juicy prawns, fresh seafood, and delicious pavlova taking center stage on the menu. Cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Adelaide light up with Christmas markets, festive decorations, and carols by candlelight events that add to the magical atmosphere.
Australia's warm, open-air celebrations make Christmas an unforgettable experience. Whether you're relaxing on a beach, exploring festive markets, or enjoying a barbecue in the park, you'll feel the holiday spirit in a way you've never experienced before!
2. Experience the Magic of the Great Barrier Reef
December is a fantastic time to explore the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's most breathtaking natural wonders. With warm waters, excellent visibility, and marine life in full bloom, it's the perfect season for snorkeling and diving adventures.
Imagine floating above a kaleidoscope of colorful corals, swimming alongside sea turtles, and spotting majestic manta rays gliding effortlessly through the water. The reef, stretching over 2,300 kilometers, is home to vibrant marine species that make every dive or snorkel trip feel like entering a surreal underwater world.
For the best experience, visit Cairns or the Whitsundays, where you'll find top-notch diving sites and stunning island resorts. If you prefer staying dry, hop on a glass-bottom boat tour or take a scenic flight over the reef for breathtaking aerial views.
The reef isn't just about marine adventures—it's also a paradise for sailing, island-hopping, and even underwater dining experiences. Whether you're an experienced diver or just a curious traveler, the Great Barrier Reef in December promises a magical encounter with one of nature's greatest masterpieces.
3. Witness the Spectacular New Year's Eve Fireworks in Sydney
There's no better way to welcome the New Year than being in Sydney on December 31st. The city's New Year's Eve fireworks are world-famous, drawing millions of spectators from across the globe. The stunning display over the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House is a bucket-list experience you won't want to miss.
The energy in Sydney on New Year's Eve is electric. People start gathering in Circular Quay, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and Darling Harbour early in the day to secure the best spots for the fireworks show. Many travelers opt for a Harbour Cruise, where they can enjoy front-row seats to the spectacle while sipping champagne under the starry sky.
If you're looking for a more intimate setting, places like McMahons Point, Cremorne Point, and Balmain East offer fantastic views with fewer crowds. The midnight show is mesmerizing, with bursts of color lighting up the sky, reflecting off the water, and creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
Whether you're partying at a rooftop bar, sailing through the harbor, or picnicking with friends, Sydney's New Year's Eve celebration is truly one of the best ways to start the year with a bang!
4. Take a Scenic Road Trip Along the Great Ocean Road
For those who love road trips, December is the perfect time to explore the iconic Great Ocean Road in Victoria. Spanning over 240 kilometers, this coastal drive offers breathtaking scenery, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque beaches that make for an unforgettable journey.
Starting from Torquay, you'll pass through charming coastal towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay, where you can stop for a coffee or dip your toes in the ocean. But the highlight of the journey is the Twelve Apostles, a collection of towering limestone formations rising majestically from the Southern Ocean. The sunset view here is pure magic, with golden hues illuminating the rugged coastline.
Along the way, keep an eye out for wild koalas in Kennett River and stop by Loch Ard Gorge, a stunning natural cove with a fascinating shipwreck history. If you're feeling adventurous, try surfing at Bells Beach, one of Australia's most famous surf spots.
Driving along the Great Ocean Road in summer is a dream—fresh ocean breezes, scenic pit stops, and endless photo opportunities make this journey one of Australia's most iconic travel experiences.
5. Discover the Wild Side of Tasmania
If you're craving untouched wilderness, Tasmania is the ultimate December destination. This island state is a hidden gem, brimming with breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife.
One of the must-visit spots is Freycinet National Park, home to the stunning Wineglass Bay. The crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sandy shores make it a perfect spot for hiking, kayaking, or simply soaking in nature's beauty. If you're lucky, you might even spot dolphins or wallabies along the way!
For a more rugged adventure, head to Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, where dramatic peaks, ancient forests, and glacial lakes create an otherworldly landscape. Hiking the famous Overland Track is an incredible experience, offering panoramic views and encounters with wombats and echidnas in their natural habitat.
Tasmania is also known for its food and wine scene, with farm-to-table dining experiences, fresh seafood, and award-winning vineyards. Whether you're exploring the wild outdoors or indulging in local delicacies, Tasmania in December is a nature lover's paradise waiting to be explored.
