From Cairns in Queensland, take the Great Barrier Reef Drive along the coast to Port Douglas and Cape Tribulation. Pass the Great Barrier Reef and go as far as you can into the spectacular Daintree Rainforest. This is where the rainforest meets the sea, and where you can see cassowaries and crocodiles.

Down the Bulli Pass and a moment before the spectacular Sea Cliff Bridge – about an hour south of Sydney city – is the beautiful Stanwell Park, a picturesque coastal village near Wollongong. Here, you’ll find cliffs—dubbed Stanwell Tops—perfect for picnicking and hang gliding. There’s a pristine crescent of white sand for swimming and surfing. Here as well are the beaches of Bulli, Thirroul, Wombarra and Austinmer. It’s a destination for camping, swimming and surfing.

Discover the magnificent rock stacks that rise up from the South Ocean on Victoria’s dramatic coastline. Created by constant erosion of mainland limestone cliffs beginning 10–20 million years ago, the stormy Southern Ocean and blasting winds have slowly eroded the softer limestone, forming caves in the cliffs.

Cast anchor at Drift House hotel in Port Fairy, where four suites, each occupying an entire floor of the main building, raise the bar on beach boutique. There are pops of colour, salvaged timber, bathrooms decorated with Japanese tiles, and high speed wifi. Rooms are designed for dining in, so instead of a restaurant and room service, expect breakfast hampers and help-yourself maxibars featuring organic chips, baked beans, pasta, parmesan and other nibbles. Instead of formal staff, there are two casual, charming owners. The beach is a short walk from the hotel. We love bedroom three – a 67 square metre space whose walls are lined with recycling timber palings, and a private courtyard complete with open fireplace. Leave the kids at home.

Some of Australia’s best rainforest scenery can be found in the Otway Ranges, where tall trees, ancient plant life and lush ferns inspire even the novice adventurer. Hike among giant tree ferns at Maits Rest and see the glow worms at Melba Gully. Base yourself at one of the villages located on the doorstep of the park: Lorne, Apollo Bay, Anglesea, Aireys Inlet or Colac. Throughout summer, berry farms all over the Otways open their gates to the public and you can pick your own blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries and other fruit. Many of the farms have quaint and rustic cafes offering lunches made from locally sourced produce. Cool down after the hard yakka in any of the pristine beaches in Lorne.