6 best Aussie destinations to visit in May
Pack your bags and head for the top Aussie spots in May.
1. Cape York, QLD
On Australia’s northernmost tip, the weather is still hovering close to 30 degrees and has humidity dissipated. It's a spectacular place for exploring by 4WD, going in search of sparkling water holes, wetlands, fishing spots and endless bird life. You’ll probably have most of it to yourself too, as the real crowds don’t arrive until June.
2. Bowral, NSW
This charming town in the Southern Highlands of NSW has been a popular rural retreat for Sydneysiders for almost 200 years. Many of them planted elaborate gardens in the English style, making for some incredible autumn foliage that will be starting to turn right about now. Our pick is Moidart, with its acres of mature trees including red oaks, golden elms, plane trees, copper beech and tulip trees.
3. Ningaloo Reef, WA
The underwater world of Ningaloo Reef becomes a world-class aquarium in May. Not only is it right in the middle of the whale shark season, you’ll find huge numbers of manta rays, turtles, dugongs, dolphins and even coral spawning. At the end of the month, humpack whales will start to make their way through the region. On top of all this, the weather is just gorgeous.
4. Cradle Mountain, TAS
If you haven’t heard of the ‘turning of the fagus’, then you’ve been missing out on one of Australia’s most stunning natural phenomena. The fagus is a cold climate deciduous tree that’s endemic to Tasmania and its leaves begin to flush with rich golds and lush yellows between April and May. Bushwalkers come from around the world to watch the leaves turn and you’ll find thousands of these trees in the Cradle Mountain National Park.
5. Yarra Valley, VIC
Autumn is harvest time in the Yarra Valley, so you’ll want to come here in May with a big appetite (and some space in your suitcase). There are plenty of local farmers markets stocking the freshest local produce and restaurants will be introducing new seasonal menus. Jump in an early morning hot air balloon flight to see the rolling vineyards bursting into a bright bouquet of autumn colours.
6. Brisbane, QLD
Brissie might just have the most pleasant climate of any Australian capital and in autumn you can expect warm temperatures and long sunny days. It will still be pleasant enough for adventures on the Brisbane River, so you can walk along the floating pathways of the Riverwalk, paddle along under your own steam in a kayak or take a more leisurely boat cruise. You’ll probably even need to wear sunscreen.
Have you been to any of these destinations?