While the hot summer months may be winding to an end, that doesn’t mean the good times have to as well. Soak up the last of the summer sunshine by getting out and exploring the best Australia’s vast backyard has to offer. From surf lessons to fruit picking, jet skiing to cycling, these are some of the best things to do in February.
Things To Do in Victoria in February
Twilight Kayak Tour
Make the most of Melbourne’s long (hopefully balmy) February nights with a twilight kayak tour through the heart of the city. While paddling along the Yarra River you’ll bypass the Royal Botanic Gardens, MCG, Herring Island and Old Customs House, plus stop to admire Crown Casino’s epic outdoor fire show. Light refreshments are included, of course, because kayaking can be hungry work.
Hot Air Balloon Over The Yarra Valley
It’s not often we encourage a pre-dawn wake-up call, but when it comes to a hot air balloon ride over the Yarra Valley, exceptions can be made. In what has to be one of the most incredible things to do in all of Victoria, you’ll float through the crisp air in a sturdy basket and watch in awe as the early-morning rays light up the rolling hills and endless vines. And no successful flight is complete without a drop of local sparkling once back on solid land. Cheers!
Things To Do in New South Wales in February
Bondi Surfing Lesson
Did you even go to Sydney if you didn’t visit Bondi Beach? For the quintessential Harbour City experience – one that merges both a trip to the world-famous beach with a classic Aussie activity – look no further than a surfing lesson at Bondi. Perfect for beginners (although advanced one-on-one sessions are also available), an expert instructor will guide you through the basics of standing up, reading the surf and catching a wave.
Sail Sydney Harbour on a Tall Ship
There’s a reason Sydney Harbour is on the bucket list of many a keen traveller, and one of the best ways to bask in all of its magnificent glory is aboard a recently-restored tall ship for a sunset cruise. Nibbles and drinks are provided, which you can enjoy while admiring all of Sydney’s most Instagram-worthy landmarks and listening to a fascinating commentary on Australia’s maritime history.
Things To Do in Queensland in February
See Springbrook National Park
Beat the Queensland heat by heading inland from the Gold Coast to explore Springbrook National Park. This ancient rainforest boasts cascading falls, breathtaking hiking trails and an abundance of wildlife. It’s hard to pick a highlight, but the view from the top of Mount Warning is pretty epic, as is catching a glimpse of the twinkling glow worms at Natural Bridge.
Jet Ski The Whitsundays
Always wanted to ride a jet ski? Now’s your chance. And where better to take to the water than heaven on Earth – sorry, the Whitsunday Islands. Departing Airlie Beach, you’ll make a beeline for the blindingly beautiful beaches of this tropical region, keeping an eye out for turtles, dugongs, whales and seabirds as you splash through the turquoise waves.
Things To Do in SA in February
Adelaide Oval RoofClimb
Offering unrivalled 360-degree views of the city, RoofClimb is one of the most exhilarating things you can do in Adelaide. Led by specially-trained guides, the hair-raising experience takes place 50 metres above the hallowed turf of Adelaide Oval, and involves walking across the iconic Western Stand while spotting local landmarks and learning about the stadium’s history.
Cycle McLaren Vale
Combine your love of cycling and sipping wine on a bike tour through McLaren Vale. This beautiful South Australian wine region is made for two-wheel adventures, with trails weaving between wineries, past local farms and through the leafy Kuitpo Forest. Break up your ride by stopping for a shiraz tasting or a delicious platter of gourmet goodies.
Things To Do in WA in February
Visit Rottnest Island
Summer in Perth means one thing: day trips to Rottnest Island. This gorgeous island is a vehicle-free paradise comprising white-sand beaches, secluded coves and stunning cycle paths. Simply catch the high-speed ferry across, hire a bike and get exploring, making sure to stop at one of the cute cafes, bars or restaurants to refuel. Oh, and don’t forget to snap a selfie with a quokka.
Summer Fruitpicking
One of the top things about summer is the juicy plethora of fruits that come into season, so why not make the most of this delicious bounty and go picking at Perth’s S&R Orchard. From plump plums to ripe nectarines, you can gather until your basket is full, while also finding out how the different varietals are planted and grown.
Things To Do in NT in February
Heli Pub Crawl
Soar above the Top End on a pub crawl with a difference. That’s right, instead of walking between watering holes you’ll be flying in your very own chartered helicopter. You’ll drop in at four different pubs to share pint and a yarn with the locals, before taking the scenic route back to Darwin. Now that’s living the high life!
Check Out Litchfield National Park
Up in the Northern Territory you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to national parks, but there’s just something special about a visit to Litchfield. Located around 100 kilometres from Darwin, it’s overflowing with superb natural wonders like thundering waterfalls, monsoon forests and ancient termite mounds. Plus, as February is also the tail end of the Top End’s wet season, it’s guaranteed to be super lush and green.
Things To Do in Tasmania in February
Day Trip to Bruny Island
Tassie’s weather can be notoriously fickle, so make the most of a finer February forecast and head out to Bruny Island. On a full-day trip from Hobart you can pack in all the highlights, including a tour of Cape Bruny Lighthouse, visits to popular natural attractions like The Neck and plenty of wildlife spotting. Best of all is the delicious local produce on offer – think chocolate, cheese, oysters and cider.
Explore Port Arthur
If you consider yourself a bit of a history buff, a visit to Port Arthur is one of the coolest things you can do in Tassie. A former convict settlement first established in 1830, there are still more than 30 buildings, ruins, restored houses and landscaped gardens to see. Join a guided walking tour for a full historic rundown on this intriguing World Heritage-listed site.
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Hero image: Rottnest Island. Photo by Julieta Julieta on Unsplash