Australia: Coasts, Red Earth, and Big Skies
Australia is scale and contrast — surf breaks and reefs, eucalyptus and red desert, modern cities and long roads. This photo-driven guide sketches classic highlights, seasons, and light-touch planning to keep days smooth.
Sydney first light — Placeholder
Cities and Coasts
- Sydney: Opera House, Harbour Bridge, coastal walks (Bondi → Coogee).
- Melbourne: Laneways and coffee, Great Ocean Road day trips.
- Brisbane/Gold Coast: Warm water and easy beaches.
Coastal walk — Placeholder
Great Ocean Road — Placeholder
Desert Icons
- Uluru & Kata Tjuta: Sunrise/ sunset color shifts; respect Anangu culture.
- Kings Canyon: Rim walk in cool hours; carry water.
Uluru glow — Placeholder
Reef and Rainforest
- Great Barrier Reef: Snorkel or intro dive; choose reputable operators.
- Daintree: Oldest rainforest feel; watch croc safety near rivers.
Reef blues — Placeholder
West and Wide Open
- WA coast: Ningaloo whale sharks (in season), Pinnacles, pink lakes.
- South Australia: Eyre Peninsula, Fleurieu, wine valleys.
Wide road, big sky — Placeholder
Seasons and Safety
Southern states: warm summers, crisp winters; tropics: wet/dry seasons. Sun is strong — hat, SPF, water; drive fresh and watch wildlife at dusk.
Late sun on the coast — Placeholder
Easy Itineraries
- 3–4 days (Sydney): Harbour → coastal walk → Blue Mountains.
- 5–7 days (VIC): Melbourne → Great Ocean Road → Grampians.
- 7–10 days (NT/QLD): Red Centre loop or Cairns + reef + rainforest.
Blue Mountains edge — Placeholder
Quick Tips
- Start early: Beat heat and crowds; golden hours win.
- Book ahead: Reef trips/Uluru sunrise spots can fill.
- Respect Country: Learn local guidance; leave no trace.
Harbour evening — Placeholder
Australia rewards unhurried days — leave space between highlights, follow the weather, and let the road (or sea) set the pace.
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Credits are embedded in each caption (Placeholder). After selecting specific images, replace with photographer names/links as needed.
