10 BEST hidden gems to visit in Australia in August

If you’re looking to escape the crowds this winter and explore somewhere a little different, August is the perfect time to discover Australia’s hidden gems.

These are the quiet spots locals love, where nature, peace and authentic experiences take centre stage. From remote national parks and coastal villages to mountain towns and island escapes, these lesser-known destinations are stunning in winter, but often overlooked.

August brings clear skies, cool air and seasonal highlights like wildflowers, whale watching, and fresh local produce.

Whether you’re road-tripping or planning a peaceful weekend away, these hidden gems offer all the beauty and adventure of Australia, just without the queues. Here are the 10 best hidden gems to visit in Australia in August.

1) Bellingen, New South Wales

Bellingen is a creative, green little town tucked between the mountains and the coast, and August is a beautiful time to visit.

The surrounding hills are fresh and misty after winter rain, and the rainforest trails in nearby Dorrigo National Park are peaceful and full of waterfalls. You can walk the Skywalk, explore Crystal Shower Falls, or drive through scenic countryside with barely another car in sight.

In town, you’ll find quirky shops, local art galleries and live music, all with a warm, welcoming vibe. The Saturday market is a highlight, with handmade goods, food trucks and produce from nearby farms. The Bellinger River flows calmly through the valley, perfect for kayaking or a quiet picnic.

Accommodation includes cute cabins, eco-retreats and family-friendly stays. The area feels far from the rush of everyday life, yet it’s only 30 minutes from Coffs Harbour. Bellingen in August is green, creative and totally relaxing.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Bellingen, New South Wales

1) Is Bellingen good for a winter getaway?

Yes, August brings cool, crisp air and fewer visitors. It’s perfect for walking, relaxing and enjoying the creative local vibe.

2) What’s the best way to explore the rainforest near Bellingen?

Head to Dorrigo National Park, just 20 minutes away. There are easy walks, waterfalls and the Skywalk for amazing views over the forest.

3) Can families enjoy Bellingen?

Absolutely, the river, nature trails and friendly town make it ideal for kids and adults alike. There’s a peaceful pace that suits all ages.

2) Coral Bay, Western Australia

Coral Bay is a small beach town right on the edge of Ningaloo Reef, and August is one of the best times to visit.

The days are sunny and warm, and the ocean is calm, clear and full of marine life. You can snorkel straight off the beach and see colourful fish, turtles, and coral just metres from shore. Whale sharks are still around in early August, and humpback whales pass by regularly during their migration.

Coral Bay is quiet and friendly, with just a handful of shops, tour boats and places to stay. It feels like a remote tropical paradise, but it’s easy to reach from Exmouth.

You can take a glass-bottom boat, go on a manta ray tour or simply swim in the lagoon. It’s peaceful, beautiful and totally unspoiled. Coral Bay in August is warm, wild and underwater heaven.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Coral Bay, Western Australia

1) Is Coral Bay safe for beginner snorkellers?

Yes, the reef is close to shore, and the water is shallow and gentle. It’s one of the easiest places in Australia to snorkel.

2) How do I get to Coral Bay?

The closest airport is Learmonth (near Exmouth), followed by a 90-minute drive. A car or transfer is needed to reach the town.

3) Can I swim with whale sharks in August?

Yes, early August is the tail end of whale shark season. Check with local tour operators for availability before you book.

3) Mount Field National Park, Tasmania

Mount Field is a short drive from Hobart, but it feels like stepping into a fairytale forest, especially in winter. August brings snow to the higher peaks and fresh, green growth to the lower trails.

You can visit Russell Falls, one of Tasmania’s most famous waterfalls, then head up to Lake Dobson where snow often covers the alpine trees. The air is crisp, clean and filled with the scent of eucalyptus and moss.

There are wallabies and wombats everywhere, often spotted on the edge of the walking tracks. If you're lucky, you might even see snow gently falling over the trees. The park is great for both short walks and longer hikes, with easy access and good facilities.

It’s peaceful, uncrowded and full of quiet magic in winter. Mount Field in August is cool, calm and a true forest escape.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Mount Field National Park, Tasmania

1) Can I see snow at Mount Field in August?

Yes, the higher parts like Lake Dobson often get snow in winter. Bring warm clothes and check conditions before heading up.

2) Is Mount Field good for short walks?

Absolutely, Russell Falls is an easy, flat walk from the car park. Other tracks are well-marked and suitable for beginners too.

3) Do I need a park pass to visit?

Yes, a valid Tasmanian Parks Pass is required and can be bought online or at the Visitor Centre. It helps support park maintenance and access.

4) Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, South Australia

Arkaroola is a remote outback destination in the northern Flinders Ranges, filled with rocky mountains, wild animals, and huge skies. August is the perfect time to visit, not too hot, not too cold, and the desert comes alive with colour after winter rain.

You can take the famous Ridgetop Tour to see ancient landscapes and dramatic cliffs that seem to go on forever. Stargazing is incredible here, with some of the clearest skies in the country and an on-site observatory to explore.

Wildlife like rock wallabies, wedge-tailed eagles and reptiles are often seen along the walking trails. It’s remote, so you’ll need to bring what you need or stay at the eco-lodge or campsite.

The isolation is part of the magic, it’s a place where silence really means silence. Arkaroola in August is wild, vast and unforgettable.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, South Australia

1) How do I get to Arkaroola?

It’s around a 10-hour drive from Adelaide, with 4WD recommended. Some guided tours operate from nearby outback towns.

2) Is it safe to visit Arkaroola in winter?

Yes, August has ideal weather for exploring, with mild days and cold nights. Always check road conditions and carry supplies.

3) What makes Arkaroola special?

The ancient geology, untouched outback landscape and incredible night skies. It’s one of Australia’s most remote and unique experiences.

5) Lord Howe Island, New South Wales

Lord Howe Island is a tropical paradise just a short flight from Sydney or Brisbane, and August is one of its quietest and most peaceful times.

Only 400 visitors are allowed on the island at any time, making it feel private and untouched. You can snorkel, hike, bike or just enjoy the amazing views over turquoise water and volcanic peaks.

The weather is mild and dry, with plenty of sunny days for outdoor adventures. The reef here is just as stunning as the Great Barrier Reef, but without the crowds. There’s no phone reception in most parts, so you can fully disconnect and recharge.

Native birds, rare plants and clean air give the island a wild, natural charm. Accommodation includes everything from beach houses to eco-lodges. Lord Howe Island in August is peaceful, wild and perfect for slowing down.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Lord Howe Island, New South Wales

1) How do I get to Lord Howe Island?

Flights run from Sydney and Brisbane, taking under 2 hours. Seats fill quickly, so book well in advance, especially in winter when spots are limited.

2) Is Lord Howe Island expensive?

It can be, due to limited access and remote location. But most travellers find the experience worth every cent for the peace and beauty.

3) Is it warm enough to swim in August?

Yes, the water sits around 20°C and is swimmable for most. A light wetsuit adds extra comfort if you're snorkelling or diving.

6) Burra, South Australia

Burra is a quiet heritage town nestled in South Australia’s Mid North, full of old-world charm and fascinating history. Once a booming copper mining centre, it’s now a peaceful escape with cobblestone streets, bluestone buildings and plenty to explore.

In August, the countryside around Burra turns green and vibrant, with cool days perfect for sightseeing. You can take a self-guided heritage trail to visit old gaols, mine ruins, and the famous Burra Homestead, featured on a Midnight Oil album cover.

The town is also home to quirky antique shops, local bakeries and country pubs with roaring fireplaces. Nearby backroads make for a great winter road trip with wide skies and rolling hills.

It’s not crowded, so you can explore slowly and soak up the atmosphere. History lovers and photographers will especially enjoy its peaceful, rustic beauty. Burra in August is calm, character-filled and quietly impressive.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Burra, South Australia

1) What can I see in Burra in winter?

You can visit historic mine sites, museums, the gaol and explore town with a self-drive heritage passport. The green countryside adds extra beauty in August.

2) Is Burra good for a short weekend trip?

Yes, it’s perfect for 1–2 nights. You’ll have enough time to relax, explore the history and enjoy the small-town hospitality.

3) Do I need to book tours in advance?

Not usually, most attractions are self-guided or open daily. Just grab a Burra Heritage Passport from the Visitor Centre to start exploring.

7) Kalbarri, Western Australia

Kalbarri is a small coastal town known for its red cliffs, wild coastline, and stunning national park. In August, the weather is mild and wildflowers begin to bloom, turning the inland areas into colourful displays.

Kalbarri National Park’s Skywalk offers jaw-dropping views over the Murchison River Gorge and is a must-visit. Coastal walks take you past rock formations like Natural Bridge and Island Rock, where you can often spot whales offshore.

The town itself is relaxed and welcoming, with cafés, caravan parks and calm swimming spots. It’s a great base for hiking, scenic drives and nature photography. For families, there’s a parrot sanctuary and gentle trails suitable for kids.

August is perfect, warm enough for beach walks but cool enough for hiking. Kalbarri in August is colourful, adventurous and crowd-free.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Kalbarri, Western Australia

1) Is August wildflower season in Kalbarri?

Yes, wildflowers start blooming in and around Kalbarri National Park from late July through spring. It’s a great time for nature lovers.

2) Can I swim in Kalbarri in winter?

Yes, some beaches and estuary areas are sheltered and safe for a dip. The ocean is cooler, but fine for short swims or water sports.

3) How far is Kalbarri from Perth?

It’s about a 6.5-hour drive north. Many visitors include it as part of a Coral Coast road trip with stops in Geraldton and Monkey Mia.

8) Yungaburra, Queensland

Yungaburra is a peaceful village in the Atherton Tablelands, inland from Cairns, known for its lakes, waterfalls and wildlife. August is cool and dry, perfect for exploring the outdoors without the heat or crowds.

Nearby Lake Eacham is ideal for kayaking or a freshwater swim, and rainforest trails are peaceful and easy to walk. You can visit Curtain Fig Tree, take a food and farm tour, or explore nearby waterfalls like Millaa Millaa and Zillie Falls.

The town is charming and full of history, with stone cottages, a great local market and friendly cafés. Platypus spotting is a favourite activity at Peterson Creek, especially in the early morning or evening.

The Tablelands are full of local produce, from dairy to tropical fruit, with lots of spots to stop and taste along the way. It’s an easy drive from Cairns, but feels like another world. Yungaburra in August is cool, relaxing and full of surprises.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Yungaburra, Queensland

1) What’s the weather like in Yungaburra in August?

Expect cool mornings and sunny days, with temperatures around 15–22°C. It’s dry season, so walking tracks and waterfalls are at their best.

2) Can I visit Yungaburra on a day trip from Cairns?

Yes, it’s about 75 minutes by car. But staying a night or two lets you explore more of the Tablelands at a slower pace.

3) Where can I see platypus in Yungaburra?

Head to Peterson Creek walking track, just a few minutes from the town centre. The best times are early morning or late afternoon.

9) Walpole, Western Australia

Walpole is a small, forested town on WA’s south coast, surrounded by ancient trees and peaceful rivers. In August, the Valley of the Giants is misty and magical, with towering tingle trees and suspended walkways through the canopy.

It’s cool and green, with soft light filtering through the leaves, perfect for photography or slow walks. The Walpole Inlet is calm and quiet, ideal for kayaking or birdwatching in peaceful surroundings.

August is also whale season along this coast, and you can often see them breaching offshore. The town itself is simple but welcoming, with local bakeries, cosy cabins and friendly locals.

There are great scenic drives through tall forests and rolling farmland nearby. The cool weather adds to the calm, earthy feel of the region. Walpole in August is peaceful, lush and deeply relaxing.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Walpole, Western Australia

1) What is the Valley of the Giants?

It’s a treetop walkway 40 metres above ground, set in an ancient tingle forest. It’s open year-round and is perfect to visit in August.

2) Can I spot whales near Walpole in winter?

Yes, southern right whales migrate past the coast from June to September. Head to lookouts around Peaceful Bay and Conspicuous Cliffs.

3) Is Walpole good for nature lovers?

Definitely, it’s quiet, green, and surrounded by forests, beaches and inlets. Ideal for walking, kayaking and spotting native wildlife.

10) New England High Country, New South Wales

New England High Country is a cool-climate region filled with historic towns, highland plains, and national parks. In August, the air is crisp and clean, and the countryside begins to show the first signs of spring.

Towns like Armidale, Glen Innes and Tenterfield offer stone buildings, cosy pubs and beautiful tree-lined streets. Waterfalls like Ebor and Dangars are flowing strongly after winter rain, and the hiking tracks are peaceful and fresh.

The area is also known for great local produce, including cheese, wine and trout, often served in warm country cafés. Roads are scenic, with winding drives past granite cliffs, paddocks and quiet lookouts.

There are museums, galleries, and Indigenous cultural sites to explore along the way. It’s ideal for a road trip with lots of hidden stops and overnight stays. New England High Country in August is cool, calming and full of small-town charm.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting New England High Country, New South Wales

1) Where is New England High Country located?

It’s inland from Coffs Harbour and north of Tamworth, covering towns like Armidale and Glen Innes. It’s easy to reach by car or regional flight.

2) What’s the weather like in August?

Cool and dry, with average daytime temperatures around 10–15°C. Mornings are often frosty, but the days are sunny and clear.

3) Is this area good for road trips?

Yes, there are quiet, scenic roads with lots of towns and nature stops along the way. Perfect for self-guided travel with plenty of space to explore.

Australia’s hidden gems shine bright in August, offering something truly special for those willing to go beyond the usual tourist tracks.

With clear winter skies, peaceful surroundings and unique landscapes in every direction, these lesser-known spots are perfect for exploring without the crowds.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hiking through ancient forests, watching whales from quiet cliffs, or just enjoying the simple beauty of country towns, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences.

These places may not be famous, and that’s exactly why you’ll love them. August is your chance to discover a quieter, deeper side of Australia.

When exploring these hidden gems, always consider hiring a guide or joining a tour group, as some locations may require local expertise for the best experience.

Did you know we have a Hidden Gem Finder on our website? This handy little map shows over 13,000 hidden gems across the entire world with their exact co-ordinates available to view on Google Maps as well as an image/description for each one!