Are you thinking about visiting some of the famous natural landmarks in Australia?
The country hides some of the most beautiful natural attractions in the world, but most visitors don’t know where they are.
So we’ve looked at all the most popular landmarks in each state and compiled the details for you.
In this article, we’ll show you which ones are worth visiting and also how to get there.
Here are the 36 most famous natural landmarks in Australia.
New South Wales
1. Bondi Beach
Bondi is one of the most iconic beaches in the world and Sydneys most famous.
Only 15 minutes from downtown, Bondi is a breathtaking stretch of golden sand against turquoise blue ocean.
There are two surf clubs, Bondi and North Bondi that patrol the beach.
Swimmers are advised to swim between the red and yellow flag, where there are lifeguards watching.
Attracting surf lovers from Australia and worldwide, Bondi Beach was the birthplace of Aussie surf culture.
There are many popular activities on the beach like volleyball, yoga and community festivals.
On the main street there is a stream of cafe’s, restaurants and various shops.
Weekends does get crowded since most Sydney locals come here to relax, so the best time to visit is during weekdays.
2. Three Sisters in Blue Mountains
Blue Mountains National Park attracts millions of tourists every year who are drawn to its serenity and pristine nature.
The rocky landmarks called three sisters is the most prominent feature of the National park.
They rise well over 900 meters above the mists of Jamison valley.
You’ll find them at Echo Point Kattomba, which is some 2.5. kilometers from the Great Western Highway.
Three Sisters are actually three vertical pillars each with its own name – Michni, Gunnedu and Wimla.
Beyond the sisters, The Blue Mountains National park is covered in lush vegetation.
It’s mostly Eucalyptus trees with many canyons cutting through the mountains.
The landscape itself is not really blue, but it’s the mist that forms here which gives these mountains its characteristic looks.
One of the best ways to see the Three Sisters and Blue Mountains is at Scenic World.
3. Jenolan Caves
The Jenolan Cave is located in the Blue Mountains regions, some 175 km west of Sydney.
It was officially discovered in 1839 by James McKeowin, although the local Aborigines did know about the caves already.
They became a national reserve in 1866.
The entire cave system is located at about 800 meters height on the western edge of the Blue Mountains.
They are part of UNESCO World Heritage.
Considered to be the world’s oldest, more than 400 caves have been discovered so far.
Eleven natural caves are opened to public and are visited by more than 150,000 tourists annually.
4. Royal National Park
The Royal National Park is located about 29 kilometres south of Sydney and covers an area of 151 square kilometres.
It’s the second oldest national park, after Yellowstone, proclaimed in 1879.
Popular activities include bushwalking, whale watching, bird watching, hiking, fishing, surfing and camping.
It has a diverse landscape, including beaches, coastal cliffs, dense grassland, bush and untouched rainforest.
There is strong Aboriginal presence in the park with their sites and artefacts safely protected.
The park is inhabited with over 300 bird species and many other Australian indigenous animals like wallabies and possums.
It is a perfect retreat for a day trip, or outdoor enthusiasts looking for pristine nature.
5. Thredbo
Thredbo is Australia’s top ski resort in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, about 500 km south of Sydney.
The natural landscape is actually a small village in the mountains where tourism plays a major role.
It is easily accessible by car, bus, or even by plane.
Thredbo has the longest ski run in Australia, some 5.9 kilometres.
However, there are slopes also catered to visitors just learning to ski and professionals seeking adrenaline.
There are many bars, restaurants, live music venues and various retail shops all over Thredbo.
A resort nearby is conveniently located, ideal for families, couples and solo travellers looking for adrenaline and fun.
6. Mount Kosciuszko
Mount Kosciuzko is the highest peak in Australia standing at 2,228 meters.
Most walks to the mountain start from either Thredbo or Charlotte Pass.
The Thredbo trek takes around 4 to 5 hours walking and is 13.5 kilometers return.
Charlotte Pass takes some 6 to 8 hours walking and is 18.5 kilometers return.
Once you reach the top, take your time to appreciate the panoramic views.
The best time to visit Mount Kosciuzko is from December to March when the snow melts.
Queensland
7. Paronella Park
Paronella Park is one of the most unique landmarks in Australia.
It was built in 1930’s by a Spanish immigrant Jose Paronella who envisioned a castle in the lush forest.
The castle is now the main feature at Paronella Park, surrounded by a picnic area, over 7500 species of tropical plants and a dramatic waterfall in the backdrop.
This is definitely a must see attraction if you’re considering a visit to Queensland.
But how do you get there?
Global Travel Services tour to Paronella Park
If you’re visiting the Paronella Park, Global Travel Services has one of the best tours in the region.
An experienced guide will share insights on Paronella Park, and show you other major attractions nearby, including Mamu Tropical Skywalk and Josephine Falls.
During the tour, there will be opportunities to spot wallabies in the wild as well.
At night, you’ll see the Queensland sky sparkling under the stars.
This is a highly recommended tour if you want to see a variety of natural attractions in Australia.
8. Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef situated on Australia’s eastern shore and stretches 2030 km from North to South.
It consists of over 3000 individual reef systems, over 900 islands, atolls and lagoons, each in a different development phase.
Popular activities include snorkelling, scuba diving, air tours, glass-bottom boat viewing, cruise ship tours, whale watching or swimming with dolphins.
It is on UNESCO World Heritage list, and is also one of the 7 natural wonders of the world.
Great Barrier Reef has many unspoiled tropical islands and only a few island resorts.
In Townsville, there is a Reef HQ where you can observe the Great Barrier Reef while safely on land.
However, the best way to see it is by joining one of the many tours that venture out to the reef.
Most tours depart from Cairns, Airlie Beach or Port Douglas.
The Great Barrier Reef is visited by over 2 million visitors annually.
9. Whitsunday Islands
Whitesundays are a group of 74 islands and islets, located on the tropical shores of Queensland.
With over 300 days of sunshine this region is perfect for visitors all year round.
You can stay on one of the islands or find a hotel on the coast nearby to explore the surroundings.
You’ll find a diverse range of flora and fauna on the Whitsunday islands, with natural beauties unique to Australia.
Popular activities include swimming, snorkelling, whale watching, kayaking, cruising and flight tours.
The easiest way to get here is by air, flying from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or Cairns.
It’s certainly worthwhile to stay a few nights on the Whitsunday Islands.
Although, there are day cruises from Airlie Beach if you’re short on time.
10. Fraser Island
Fraser island is the longest sand island in the world and part of UNESCO World Heritage list.
It is officially a National Park, located 200 km north of Brisbane.
Fraser island is also listed by the Convention of Wetlands due to mangrove forests and rich bird habitat.
Massive sand hills rise up to 250 meters above the sea level.
If you have time to explore the whole island, you may come across one of the 40 fresh water lakes amongst the sand dunes.
Even though sand lacks the nutrients for most plants, lush vegetation and dense rainforest has managed to grow on Fraser Island.
One of the interesting features of Fraser island are the coloured sand cliffs rising above the sea.
Also, keep an eye out for dingoes that roam around the island.
11. Green Island
Green island is a small green emerald lying in the Great Barrier Reef, 27 kms off the coast of Cairns.
There is a luxury resort on the island, very popular with couples and honeymooners seeking a romantic getaway.
The entire resort was built to have minimum impact on the nature..
Green island is surrounded by white sandy beaches and turquoise blue waters making it one of the top natural landmarks in Queensland.
You can easily walk around the island in just 20 minutes.
Diving and snorkelling are the main activities here with incredibly rich flora and fauna in the reef nearby.
If you want to stay at the Green Island Resort, you’ll find luxury rooms, a bar, on-site dining, snorkel gear and a relaxing day spa to enhance the experience.
Otherwise, there are day tours available from Cairns.
12. Daintree Rainforest
Daintree Rainforest is a national park in the north-east Queensland and a UNESCO World Heritage list.
It is one of the last ancient tropical rainforests in the world and is over 110 million years old.
Walking tours are available for exploring local flora an fauna.
Hiking, river cruising, zip-lining through rainforest canopy, and horse riding are just some of the popular activities here.
As you explore this huge natural landmark, look out for Australia’s iconic cassowary birds and crocodiles along the Daintree river.
Daintree Rainforest is easily accessible for a day trip from Cairns or even Brisbane.
13. Springbrook National Park
Springbrook is a vast rainforest and national park located in the hinterlands of Gold Coast.
There are Eucalyptus forests, mountain streams, waterfalls, and tumbling creeks in this impressive natural landscape.
Springbrook Park is divided into 4 main areas – Springbrook Plateu, Mount Cougal, Natural Bridge and Numinbah.
The park is part of the Gondwana Rainforest of Australia World Heritage Area.
Plateu has many lookouts offering spectacular views, while Mount Cougal offers an insight into regions logging history.
At Natural bridge, you’ll find a unique waterfall cascading over rocks.
However, night tours are most popular as you see glow worms inside the caves.
There are several private campgrounds, guesthouses lodges and apartments within a short distance from the park.
If you love nature, it’s worth staying here a couple of nights.
14. Lamington National Park
Lamington National Park stretches over 206 square kilometers over Lamington plateau.
It is is renowned for its natural beauty, rainforest, waterfalls, birdlife, walking tracks and mountain views.
The park is divided into two sections – Green Mountains and Binna Burra.
Many commercial tour operators conduct tours to Lamington National Park.
There are extensive walking tracks along the McPherson Range, allowing visitors to explore waste forests creeks and waterfalls.
Lamington National park is also part of Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area.
You can enjoy this natural landmark from its various lookouts that overlook the Gold Coast.
Northern Territory
15. Ayers Rock
Ayers Rock (also called Uluru) is located in southern part of Northern Territory, 450 kilometers southwest of Allice Springs.
It has been part of Uluru National Park since 1985.
Ayers Rock is a holly place for the Aborigines and it is Australia’s national symbol.
Over half a million tourists visit Ayers Rock annually.
It takes 4 hours to walk around Ayers Rock, and 2 hours to climb it.
Some of Australia’s deadliest animals live here, so walking without an experienced guide is not recommended.
There are many walking tours offered by local Aborigines.
It can get hot, particularly during summer, so make sure you bring appropriate sun protection on your visit.
16. Kakadu National Park
Kakadu National Park is situated 171 km East of Darwin, in the Northern Territory.
The park covers an area of 19,804 square kilometers, making it one of the largest in Australia.
It became a national park in 1981 due to its unique flora and fauna, huge biodiversity, and cultural significance for the local Aborigines.
Some of the world’s oldest petroglyphs can be found here, over 40,000 years old.
There are 9 endemic and 44 endangered species living in Kakadu National Park.
Some of the activities offered include Rock art site walks, painting and weaving demonstrations, bird watching, and croc spotting.
Being such a large natural landscape, it’s best to join a tour to experience everything at Kakadu National Park.
17. Kings Canyon
Kings Canyon lies 323 km west of Alice Springs, within the Watarrka National Park.
The cliffs of the canyon are 100 meters high.
At the bottom of the canyon, you’ll find Kings Creek carving a path.
It is an Aboriginal holly site so visitors are advised to leave minimal impact.
There are several walk tracks you can take in Kings Canyon as well as a steep climb that takes you straight to the top.
Don’t miss Garden of Eden, which is a permanent water hole surrounded by lush cycads and plants.
Also see the the unusual rock Formation called Rock City.
Similar to other natural landmarks in Australia, there are many tours available that showcase the best of Kings Canyon.
18. Litchfield National Park
Litchfield National Park is an unusual green oasis hiding rich biodiversity.
It is known for it’s lush monsoon forests, waterfalls, termite mounds, unusual rock formations, waterfalls and cascades.
Camping and caravan sites are very close to the park gate.
It is possible to take nice refreshing dip under the waterfalls or in one of the waterholes.
Some of the largest termite mounds can be found in Litchfield Park, up to several meters high.
One of the top attractions is The Lost City, an unusual naturally shaped sandstone.
Each year the Litchfield Park is visited by over 260,000 visitors.
You can find out why this is one of Australia’s must see natural landmarks on one of the many tours available from Darwin.
Victoria
19. Twelve Apostles on Great Ocean Road
The Twelve Apostles are located in the Port Campbell National Park by the Great Ocean Road.
They are massive limestone structures that rise up to 45 meters above the sea.
Only 8 still stand, as previous structures eroded from sea forces.
The Twelve Apostles Centre offers amazing views of the rocks, surrounding cliffs and the coastline.
There are plenty of photo opportunities along the board walk.
However, the best way to see these natural landmarks is in a helicopter tour!
Hiking along the Great Ocean Walk is also a fun way to explore the area.
There are many day trips available from Melbourne as well as hotel options if you choose to stay.
20. Loch Ard Gorge
Loch Ard Gorge is part of Port Campbell National Park, only 3.5 km west of 12 Apostles.
The gorge is easily accessed via the Great Ocean Road.
It was named after the English ship that sank here.
On arrival, a pathway from the eastern side of the gorge will lead to a set of stairs.
As you walk down, you’ll see a large secluded beach area.
Feel free to take a dip in the water, but beware…it’s extremely cold!
For most visitors, the real highlights are seeing the crystal clear waters, Thunder cave and unique rock formations at Loch Ard Gorge.
Most tours Great Ocean Road tours from Melbourne will stop Loch Ard Gorge since it’s close to the 12 Apostles.
21. Phillip Island
Phillip island is a popular weekend getaway from Melbourne.
Koala reserve and animal parks offer the experience of Australian wildlife.
Off shore, there are cruises available so you can see whales, seals, and admire the scenic coastline of south Australia.
There are many other places to explore on land, however, Nobbies center is one of the main attractions.
It is an eco-tourism center on the western point of the island.
It offers boardwalks that overlook the Seal rocks, The Nobbies, and the Blowhole.
Later at night, watch the penguin parade as hundreds march onto the beach.
It can get particularly cold on Phillip Island, especially if you’re waiting for the penguin parade.
Make sure you pack the right warm clothing to fully appreciate this popular natural attraction.
22. Great Otway National Park
Great Otway National Park features rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, rock platforms, waterfalls, forests and lakes.
It is located in South-West of Victoria about 162 kilometers from Melbourne.
Aboriginal Owners maintain connections with their ancestral lands and waters, so it’s important to respect the environment when you’re visiting.
Most Great Ocean Road tours will stop at this popular natural landmark.
Although the best way to explore this national park is on the Otway Fly Treetop Walk where there’s a boardwalk 30 meters above ground.
If you’re staying longer, it’s worth looking for the popular waterfalls located in the park.
There are also many places within Great Otway National Park ideal for picnics or camping.
23. Grampians National Park
Grampians National Park is enlisted in Australia National Heritage List for its natural beauty and indigenous rock art.
The Grampians is a series of striking sandstone mountain ranges.
It is a home to one of the richest indigenous rock art sites in Australia.
Motifs painted in the caves portray humans, animal tracks, and wildlife in the region.
Grampians is also a famous rock climbing destination with first routes being established in 1960s.
The 160 kilometre Grampians Peak Trail is one of the iconic trails in the park.
If you’re looking to stay nearby, Halls Gap is a small town on the eastern side of the park offering various hotel options.
Western Australia
24. Wave Rock
Wave Rock is a natural rock formation shaped like an ocean wave.
15 meters high and 110 meters wide, this unusual and solitary hill lies 296 kilometers South-East of Perth.
Wave Rock is part of a natural reserve – Hyden Wildlife Park.
It has a great cultural and spiritual significance to the local Ballardong people.
Nearby, a collection of 450 ancient rock paintings can be seen on the walls of Mulka’s Cave.
You may even see koalas and white kangaroos roaming around Hayden.
On site, there is a cafe, parking area, picnic spots, toilets and shops for visitors.
25. The Pinnacles
Pinnacles are fascinating limestone formations that rise up from the desert sands of Western Australia.
Some of the tallest rise up to 3.5 meters.
If you arrive early, you’ll see Western Gray Kangaroos grassing on vegetation.
Black cockatoos and emus are also frequent visitors as well as many reptile species.
The Pinnacles are part of Nambung National Park which is visited by over 100,000 visitors each year.
Also check out the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre which has displays showing how the pinnacles naturally formed.
26. The Kimberley
Kimberly is the northern most Australian region surrounded by ocean and desert.
It was one of the earliest settled parts of Australian continent.
Some estimates suggest 41,000 years ago!
The Kimberley is three time larger than England but sparsely populated.
It is one the largest Australian landscapes with pristine nature.
You’ll find picture perfect canyons, freshwater swimming holes, wildlife, and friendly locals.
There are many romantic beach towns along the coast, with Broome being one of Australia’s most iconic destinations.
If you’re interested in visiting the Kimberley, join a tour as it can be difficult navigating this vast natural landscape.
27. Lake Hillier
Lake Hillier is a naturally pink lake and one of the most unique nature wonders on Earth.
It is a protected site and part of Recherche Archipelago Nature Reserve.
The lake can be found on Middle island off the southern coast of Western Australia, surrounded by thick eucalyptus and paperback forests.
The high salinity of the lake makes it resemble the Dead Sea in Israel.
Swimming in the lake is possible but rarely done as it is mostly inaccessible.
The best way to see Lake Hillier is on a flight tour where you can see the contrasting pink with the clear blue ocean.
28. Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island is located 18 kilometres off the Western coast of Perth.
The island is most well-known for its population of quokkas – a small native mammal known for its natural smiley face!
Rottnest Island is also a home to Australian sea lions and southern fur seals.
Off the coast, you may even spot whales swimming by.
During summer, its white sandy beaches attract many tourists from the mainland.
The entire island is a car free zone, so only bikes are available.
To get to Rottnest Island, you can catch a roundtrip ferry from Perth.
South Australia
29. Wilpena Pound
Wilpena Pound is natural chain of mountains located about 450 kilometers north of Adelaide.
It is part of the Flinders Ranges National Park, easily accessible by road.
The most popular activities are rock climbing, hiking and bushwalking.
You’ll also see wild kangaroos, wallabies, emus, dingo’s, and all kinds of reptiles in Wilpena Pound.
Since it’s in such an isolated location, it’s best to stay at the Wilpena Resort to fully appreciate the natural environement.
30. Umpherston Sinkhole
Umpherston Sinkhole is located in the Mount Gambier Region between Melbourne and Adelaide.
It is also known as The Sunken Garden.
This unique sinkhole has a viewing platform at the top but you can also walk down to the bottom.
The sinkhole feels like heavenly green space with rows and terraces of flowers.
Visitors can visit the public park and walk among the natural plants and fountains.
During the night, floodlights come on and you may spot a few cute possums running around.
31. Remarkable Rocks
Remearkable Rocks can be found on the south-west of Kangaroo island, off the coast of Adelaide.
500 million years of rain and wave pounding shaped these boulders into today’s form.
They are part of Flinders Chase National Park.
Remarkable Rocks are a popular hiking location overlooking the Southern Ocean.
Sunrise and sunset are the best times to visit as you have the sun in the stunning backdrop for your photos.
Wooded boardwalks are also partly accessible to disabled visitors.
Be extra careful on the edges as there are no fences on the steep slopes.
32. Admirals Arch
Admirals Arch is another astounding natural landmark of the Kangaroo island, part of Flinders Chase National Park.
A 20-30 minute casual boardwalk around the cliffs will lead you to Admirals Arch.
On the way, you’ll see Fur-seals resting on the shore.
Between May and October whales can be observed migrating here.
Although it’s still busy during summer, as most visitors will pause along the boardwalk to take photos of seal colonies resting on the shores.
Make sure you have a good camera ready for some breathtaking shots of Admirals Arch and it’s surroundings.
Tasmania
33. Cradle Mountain
Cradle Mountain is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
The natural environment in this area is diverse.
It is home to Tasmanian devils, quolls, platypus, echidna and several bird species.
Cradle Mountain Lodge is considered one of Australia’s most iconic wilderness experiences.
The area around the mountain has a number of day walks, but the largest is Overland Track – 80 kilometers.
During the treks, you’ll see glacier lakes and alpine forests.
Tassie Tours
If you’re planning a visit to Cradle Mountain, it’s best to follow an experienced tour guide.
Tassietours.com offers day trips and know exactly where to take you.
You can join their tours to see the best scenic views near Cradle Mountain, which include walks near Dove Lake, Enchanted forest and King Billy Pine walks.
There’ll be plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and maybe the iconic Tassie Devil!
34. Freycinet National Park
Freycinet National Park is best known for its pink granite peaks and picture perfect Wineglass Bay.
It is located on the eastern part of Tasmanian island and stretches across the entire Freycinet peninsula.
There are a number of walking tracks across the park connecting bays and beaches.
The clean waters of the peninsula, particularly at Wineglass Bay, are great for swimming or exploring by kayak.
We recommend staying in Freyinet National Park for a couple of nights to see everything it has to offer.
There are many hotel options nearby, from basic campsites to luxury eco resorts.
35. Mount Field National Park
Mount Field was the first national park in Tasmania.
The natural landscape is easily reachable from Hobart.
It offers stunning vistas, great walks, and an abundance of wildlife.
If you’re planning a visit, don’t miss Russel Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the area.
You will also see unique caves and some of the world’s oldest trees in Mount Field National Park.
During Autumn the slopes of the mountain turn gold when leafs start to change their color.
Skiing and snowboarding is also available during winter.
36. Bay of Fires
Bay of Fires is proclaimed one of the most beautiful places in Australia.
It stretches 50 kilometers from Binalong Bay to Eddystone Point on Tasmania’s eastern shores.
Binalong bay is the area’s main beach, which is ideal for swimming, snorkelling or just sunbathing.
The white sandy beaches, crystal clear sea water, and unspoiled nature will be a photographer’s dream.
There are many camping possibilities with stunning views, or eco lodge experience.
For those who love the outdoors, join a multi day walking tour.
Most guided walks are based around the natural landscape of Larapuna and Wukalina.
There is a true wealth of wildlife to be discovered here for nature lovers.
To reduce Australia’s natural wonders to just 36 was a very hard task.
There are a lot more!
However, the landmarks listed above will be enough to leave a lasting impression if you visit on your next trip.
Add some of these natural landmarks in Australia to your next adventure!
Find more Natural Landmarks in Australia
