Your Next Favourite Summer Spot Might Be One You’ve Never Heard Of
Planning your summer holiday in Australia can feel like a guessing game. You want sunshine, good food, beautiful beaches, maybe a bit of adventure too. But between the classics like Byron and Bondi, and all those lesser-known gems people keep mentioning, it’s hard to know what’s actually worth your time.
Here’s the thing: Australia’s full of summer hotspots, but not every destination fits every traveller. Some are better for slowing down, some are packed with things to do, and some offer the kind of scenery that makes you want to stay forever. The trick is knowing what to expect, and what to pack (yes, even your UGGs might come in handy).
Whether you're chasing waves, wine, or wide-open nature, this guide will walk you through some of the top summer vacation spots in Australia, with a few surprises thrown in. You’ll walk away with fresh ideas, local tips, and a better feel for where to head this summer.
Ready? Let’s find your perfect spot.
Why Summer in Australia Is Like Nowhere Else
It’s Built Around Simple Joys
There’s something about an Aussie summer that just hits different. Maybe it’s the sound of cicadas in the heat, the way hot sand sticks to your feet after a beach swim, or that first sip of a cold drink at a coastal pub. It’s relaxed, it’s outdoorsy, and it’s built around simple pleasures, barbies, beach days, road trips, and slowing down.
You’ve Got Options — Lots of Them
But it’s not all blistering sun and packed beaches. Depending on where you go, an Australian summer can mean anything from snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, to hiking in cool mountain air, to sipping pinot under the stars in a breezy wine region. What makes it iconic is the range of experiences. You can go full tropical getaway, laid-back surf town, or wilderness retreat, and still be doing summer the Aussie way.
It’s Comfort, Coastal Style
And here’s the bonus: in many places, the evenings cool off just enough to pull on your comfiest UGGs after a long day in the sun. Whether you’re camping under the stars or kicking back at a beach shack, there’s that cosy, casual feel that’s unique to an Aussie summer, the kind of mix that makes you feel completely at ease.
Top Summer Vacation Spots in Australia You Need to Visit
1. Byron Bay, NSW
Best for: Beach lovers, wellness seekers, and those chasing a chilled coastal vibe.
Byron Bay is the kind of place people visit for a weekend and end up staying for months. There’s something magnetic about it, a mix of laid-back surf culture, boho markets, and crystal-clear beaches. Spend your mornings surfing at The Pass, your afternoons exploring boutiques and juice bars, and your evenings listening to live music with sand still on your feet.
But Byron’s not just beaches and brunch. You’ll find rainforest trails just inland, day spas hidden in the hills, and farmers markets filled with local produce. There’s also a strong focus on wellness—think yoga by the ocean, kombucha on tap, and organic everything.
Local tip: Byron gets hot and humid in summer, but the nights often bring in a breeze — perfect weather to kick back on your balcony in loose linen and your trusty UGG slippers.
2. Margaret River, WA
Best for: Wine lovers, nature explorers, and anyone who wants a quieter summer break.
If your ideal summer involves world-class wine, dramatic coastline, and peaceful surrounds, Margaret River should be at the top of your list. Tucked away in WA’s southwest corner, this region is famous for its boutique wineries, surf breaks, and karri forests that stretch as far as the eye can see.
You can spend your day hopping between cellar doors and local breweries, followed by a swim at Meelup Beach or a coastal walk along the Cape to Cape Track. There’s a sense of calm here, fewer crowds, slower pace, and a real connection to nature.
Local tip: While the days can be warm, summer evenings here often cool right down. Bring a jumper — and don’t forget your UGG boots for those post-dinner strolls under the stars.
3. Noosa, QLD
Best for: Families, couples, and anyone chasing the sun with a touch of style.
Noosa is like the more polished cousin of other Queensland beach towns. It has the sun-drenched beaches, the laid-back surf culture, but also a boutique edge. Hastings Street is lined with cafes, fashion stores, and gelato spots, all just steps from the beach.
The real magic of Noosa though? It’s in the balance. Spend the morning swimming in the calm waters of Main Beach, hike through Noosa National Park in the afternoon, then settle into a rooftop bar for sunset. There’s enough going on to keep things interesting, but never so much that it feels chaotic.
Local tip: Even in summer, air-con and sea breezes can cool things down at night. Having your UGG slippers handy makes those quiet evenings even comfier, especially if you’ve had a big beach day.
4. The Whitsundays, QLD
Best for: Tropical island vibes, snorkelling, sailing, and postcard-perfect beaches.
If you’re dreaming of turquoise water and white sand, the Whitsundays are your answer. This chain of 74 islands off the coast of Queensland is pure paradise, especially during summer when the days are long, warm, and ideal for exploring by boat.
Base yourself in Airlie Beach or splash out with a stay on Hamilton Island. Spend your days sailing between secluded coves, snorkelling over the Great Barrier Reef, or simply lying on the world-famous Whitehaven Beach. It’s laid-back, luxurious, and totally unforgettable.
Local tip: You’ll be in swimmers most of the time, but don’t forget a loose cover-up and your UGG slippers for breezy nights on the balcony.
5. Hobart & Surrounds, TAS
Best for: Cooler temps, nature, culture, and something a bit off the beaten track.
If you’re not a fan of the intense summer heat, Tasmania offers the perfect alternative. Hobart is charming and artsy, with a buzzing waterfront and the famously quirky MONA museum. From there, it’s easy to day trip to places like Bruny Island, Mt Wellington, or the Huon Valley.
It’s the kind of destination where you can start your day with a hike and end it with local oysters and a Tassie pinot. And while it’s summer, temps here are much milder, think fresh mornings, sunny afternoons, and cool evenings.
Local tip: This is where your UGG boots really shine. After a day exploring the markets or mountain trails, they’re the ultimate comfort for winding down in a cosy cabin or cottage.
What to Pack for an Aussie Summer (Yes, Even Your UGGs)
Packing for an Australian summer isn’t just about thongs and swimmers — though you’ll definitely need both. The weather can shift depending on where you go, especially if you're heading south or inland, so it pays to think beyond the basics.
Here’s a quick list of must-haves to keep your trip breezy:
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Light, breathable clothing – Think cotton, linen, and loose fits.
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Swimwear – Pack more than one set if you’ll be in and out of the water often.
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Sunscreen & a good hat – The Aussie sun is no joke.
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Thongs or slides – Easy for beach days and casual walks.
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One nice outfit – For dinners, wineries, or fancier coastal spots.
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A light jumper or jacket – Especially for places like Margaret River or Tassie, where evenings cool down.
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Your UGG boots or slippers – Trust us: after a long day in the sun, slipping into your UGGs with a chilled drink in hand feels like a little slice of heaven.
Bonus tip: If you're road tripping, bring a soft throw or beach towel to double as a picnic rug or car seat cover. Versatility is key.
Ready to Pick Your Summer Spot?
The beauty of an Aussie summer is that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re chasing sunshine, serenity, surf or a bit of all three. From the barefoot charm of Byron Bay to the cool mountain air of Tasmania, each spot on this list brings its own flavour of summer magic.
And the best part? You don’t have to overthink it. Pack light, plan loosely, and bring the essentials, swimmers, sunnies, and yes, your UGGs. Whether you're road-tripping the coast or hopping between islands, the real joy of summer here is in the moments: salt in your hair, sand in your shoes, and that feeling of total ease.
If you’re planning a summer getaway, don’t forget the one item that brings instant comfort — your UGGs. Whether it’s boots for cooler nights or slippers for lazy mornings, a pair of UGGs is a travel essential you’ll actually use.
Explore the full range of UGGs at UGG Originals and find your perfect pair before you hit the road.
