10 Best Hidden Gems to Visit in Australia in December (2025 Summer Guide)

Thinking of Australia in December usually conjures up images of sweaty, overcrowded beaches in Bondi or Melbourne.

Everyone's fighting for a square inch of sand, and you'll pay a fortune for a lukewarm beer. But the country is massive, and most tourists flock to the same handful of spots, leaving huge swathes of incredible places empty.

This isn't about finding a slightly less busy tourist trap; it's about going somewhere properly different, where you can actually hear yourself think and get a real feel for the place.

December is summer, yes, but that doesn't mean you have to resign yourself to the chaos.

It just means you have to be a bit smarter about where you go. Forget the east coast hype for a minute and look at the places the locals try to keep to themselves.

1) Kangaroo Island, South Australia

Forget the mainland crowds; Kangaroo Island is where you go for raw, unfiltered Australian nature without the tourist buses.

December is a brilliant time to visit because the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for hitting the water.

This place is a haven for wildlife, so expect to see sea lions, koalas, and of course, kangaroos, just wandering about. You can spend your days exploring dramatic coastlines like the Remarkable Rocks or swimming in secluded bays like Stokes Bay.

The island is bigger than you think, so hiring a car is essential to properly explore everything it has to offer.

Don't just stick to the main sights; take some of the unsealed roads and find your own private beach for the afternoon.

Go kayaking in Vivonne Bay, which has some of the clearest water you'll ever see. For something a bit different, check out the sand dunes at Little Sahara and have a go at sandboarding.

The food and wine scene here is also surprisingly good, with loads of small producers to visit. It's an active holiday, but one that leaves you feeling like you've actually been somewhere properly wild and remote.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Kangaroo Island, South Australia

1. Is Kangaroo Island worth visiting in December?

Absolutely. December is peak summer, offering fantastic weather for beach activities, swimming, and snorkelling. It's the most popular time to go, so you'll need to book flights and accommodation well in advance, but the long, sunny days are perfect for exploring the island's diverse landscapes.

2. How do I get to Kangaroo Island?

Getting there is straightforward. The quickest way is to take a 40-minute flight from Adelaide directly to Kingscote Airport on the island. Alternatively, you can drive to Cape Jervis, which is about a 90-minute drive south of Adelaide, and take the SeaLink ferry to Penneshaw.

3. What are the must-do activities on Kangaroo Island besides seeing wildlife?

Beyond the incredible wildlife, head to Flinders Chase National Park to see the iconic Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. For adventure, try sandboarding at Little Sahara or kayaking on the Harriet River.

2) Lord Howe Island, New South Wales

If you really want to get away from it all, Lord Howe Island is your spot. They cap visitor numbers at 400 at any one time, so it never, ever feels crowded.

It's a UNESCO World Heritage site for a reason; the place is stunning, with volcanic mountains, lush forests, and the world's most southerly coral reef.

The main mode of transport is a bicycle, and the speed limit for the few cars is just 25 km/h, which tells you everything you need to know about the pace of life here. You come here to switch off, as there is no mobile phone coverage on the island.

In December, the weather is warm and perfect for diving and snorkelling in the lagoon, which is teeming with fish and turtles.

You can hand-feed fish at Ned's Beach or take on the challenging eight-hour guided hike up Mount Gower for incredible views. It's not a cheap destination, but it's an experience you won't find anywhere else in Australia.

This is the place for people who love nature and want a proper break from the noise of modern life. It's a genuine escape in every sense of the word.

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

1. What makes Lord Howe Island a good December destination?

December is the start of summer, offering average temperatures in the mid-20s, which is ideal for all the outdoor activities the island offers. The warmer water temperatures are perfect for exploring the coral reef through snorkelling or diving.

2. How do you get around Lord Howe Island?

The island is only 11 kilometres long, so getting around is easy and part of the experience. The most common way to travel is by bicycle, which you can hire on the island. Walking is also a great option for shorter distances.

3. Are there any challenging activities on Lord Howe Island?

Yes, for serious hikers, the Mount Gower trek is considered one of Australia's best day walks. It's a challenging eight-hour return trip that requires a good level of fitness and must be done with a licensed guide.

3) Strahan, Tasmania

Tasmania in summer is a great shout, but instead of heading to the usual spots, go west to Strahan.

This remote harbour town is the gateway to the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, a massive expanse of World Heritage-listed wilderness. The vibe here is all about rugged, untouched nature. It's a world away from the mainland's summer heat and crowds.

The best way to experience the area is by taking a cruise up the Gordon River, where the reflections in the tannin-stained water are incredible.

You'll also get to visit Sarah Island, the site of a notoriously harsh former penal colony. Back on dry land, you can walk to Hogarth Falls through a lush rainforest or explore the massive Henty Dunes.

For something different, take a ride on the West Coast Wilderness Railway, a restored steam train that winds its way through the mountains.

Strahan isn't about beach clubs and nightlife; it's for people who appreciate the wild and want to see a side of Australia that feels ancient and powerful.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Strahan, Tasmania

1. What's the main appeal of visiting Strahan in December?

December is the beginning of summer in Tasmania, which means the weather is generally mild and comfortable for outdoor activities, though you should always be prepared for rain. It's the best time to take a Gordon River cruise and explore the surrounding national parks without the harsh conditions of winter.

2. Is Strahan difficult to get to?

Strahan is located on Tasmania's remote West Coast, so it requires a bit of a drive, but that's part of its charm. It's about a 4.5-hour drive from Hobart and 3.5 hours from Launceston.

3. What are the top things to do in Strahan?

The absolute must-do is a Gordon River cruise, which takes you deep into the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Another highlight is riding the West Coast Wilderness Railway for a journey back in time through the rainforest.

4) Broome, Western Australia

While the rest of Australia is in the thick of its dry summer, December marks the beginning of the wet season in Broome.

Don't let that put you off; it's actually a fantastic time to visit if you want a different kind of experience. The afternoon thunderstorms are dramatic, the landscape turns a vibrant green, and the tourist numbers drop off significantly.

You'll get to see the famous Cable Beach without the hordes, and the sunsets are often even more spectacular with the cloud cover.

This is the time to go on a fishing charter in Roebuck Bay or take a scenic flight over the Horizontal Falls.

You can still ride a camel along the beach at sunset, which is a classic Broome experience. Explore the town's pearling history at a local pearl farm or catch a film at Sun Pictures, the world's oldest operating outdoor cinema.

Visiting Broome in December is for the traveller who doesn't mind a bit of humidity and wants to see the Kimberley coast at its most lush and dramatic.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Broome, Western Australia

1. Why should I visit Broome in December if it's the wet season?

Visiting Broome in December offers a unique perspective. The wet season brings dramatic lightning shows, lush green landscapes, and far fewer tourists than the peak dry season. While you can expect hot, humid days and afternoon showers, these are often short-lived.

2. Is it safe to swim at Cable Beach in Broome during December?

Swimming at Cable Beach between May and October is generally fine. However, the wet season (which includes December) is stinger season, meaning there's a risk of encountering Irukandji and Box jellyfish.

3. What can I do in Broome if it's raining?

The rain usually comes in short, heavy bursts in the afternoon, leaving the rest of the day clear. During a downpour, you can visit the Broome Historical Museum or learn about the town's pearling industry at a local showroom.

5) The Sapphire Coast, New South Wales

While everyone else crams onto the beaches north of Sydney, head south to the Sapphire Coast.

This stretch of coastline, from Bermagui down to the Victorian border, is stunning and surprisingly quiet, even in December. You'll find a string of charming small towns, deserted beaches, and crystal-clear estuaries perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.

The whole area has a relaxed, old-school holiday feel that's hard to find these days. It’s the kind of place you go for simple pleasures.

Base yourself in a town like Tathra or Merimbula and spend your days exploring. Go for a walk in Beowa National Park, where you can find secluded coves and dramatic headlands.

The region is famous for its Sydney Rock Oysters, so make sure you visit an oyster farm and try some straight from the source.

The drive between the towns is beautiful, with rolling green hills on one side and the sparkling blue ocean on the other. This is the perfect spot for a classic Aussie beach holiday without the ridiculous crowds.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting The Sapphire Coast, New South Wales

1. How crowded is the Sapphire Coast in December?

Compared to other coastal destinations in New South Wales like Jervis Bay or Byron Bay, the Sapphire Coast is much quieter. Because it's a longer drive from Sydney and Melbourne, it doesn't attract the same massive holiday crowds.

2. What is the Sapphire Coast best known for?

The Sapphire Coast is renowned for its pristine natural environment, featuring stunning beaches, clear rivers, and dense national parks. It's particularly famous for its incredible Sydney Rock Oysters, and you can follow the "Oyster Trail" to sample them fresh from the estuaries.

3. What are the best towns to stay in on the Sapphire Coast?

It depends on what you're after. Merimbula is one of the larger towns with more restaurants and activities, making it great for families. Tathra is a bit smaller and has a more laid-back vibe, famous for its historic timber wharf.

6) Flinders Ranges, South Australia

If you think a desert landscape in December is a mad idea, you're only half right. The Flinders Ranges will be hot, with temperatures often pushing 35°C or higher, but it's a dry heat and the experience is unlike anything else.

This ancient mountain range offers some of the most incredible scenery in the country, with rugged peaks, deep gorges, and vast, open plains.

The key is to plan your days carefully: explore in the early mornings and late afternoons, and spend the middle of the day relaxing somewhere cool.

A scenic flight over Wilpena Pound is a must-do to truly appreciate the scale of this natural amphitheatre.

You can also go for a drive through Brachina Gorge, known as the "corridor through time" for its incredible geological history. Keep an eye out for yellow-footed rock wallabies, which are a common sight in the area.

The Flinders Ranges in December is for the adventurous traveller who is well-prepared for the heat and wants to experience the raw, powerful beauty of the Australian outback.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Flinders Ranges, South Australia

1. Is visiting the Flinders Ranges in December a good idea due to the heat?

It can be, but you must be prepared. December is summer in the Flinders Ranges, and daytime temperatures can be extremely high, often exceeding 35-40°C. Many hiking trails may be closed for safety.

2. What are the essential things to see in the Flinders Ranges?

The absolute highlight is Wilpena Pound, a massive natural basin that you can explore on foot or, for the best view, from a scenic flight. The Brachina and Bunyeroo Gorges are fantastic scenic drives where you can see incredible rock formations and look for wildlife like the yellow-footed rock wallaby.

3. Do I need a 4WD to explore the Flinders Ranges?

While many of the main sights like Wilpena Pound and the sealed roads are accessible with a standard 2WD vehicle, a 4WD will give you much more freedom. Many of the most rewarding scenic drives, gorges, and remote tracks are on unsealed roads that require a high-clearance 4WD.

7) The Tarkine, Tasmania

For a complete contrast to the summer heat, head to the Tarkine (takayna) in Tasmania's north-west.

This is Australia's largest cool temperate rainforest, and it's a place of incredible wildness and beauty. December offers mild weather, making it a great time for hiking and exploring.

The area is remote and receives very few tourists, so it's the perfect place to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. It’s a proper wilderness experience, so don’t expect luxury resorts.

You can stay in the tiny historic mining town of Corinna, which now serves as a base for exploring the region. From there, you can take a cruise on the Pieman River or kayak through the tranquil waterways.

There are numerous walking trails that take you through dense forests of myrtle, leatherwood, and giant tree ferns. One of the highlights is the walk to Trowutta Arch, a dramatic geological formation.

The Tarkine is for those who want to experience a truly ancient landscape and aren't afraid of a bit of mud on their boots.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting The Tarkine, Tasmania

1. What kind of traveller would enjoy the Tarkine?

The Tarkine is for nature lovers and those seeking solitude. It's an area for people who enjoy hiking, kayaking, and disconnecting from the digital world. It's not a destination for luxury travel; the appeal lies in its raw, untouched wilderness.

2. Where should I stay when visiting the Tarkine?

The former mining settlement of Corinna is the main hub for visitors wanting to explore the southern part of the Tarkine. It offers basic cottages and camping facilities and serves as the launching point for river cruises and kayak trips.

3. What should I pack for a trip to the Tarkine in December?

Even though it's summer, the weather in the Tarkine can be unpredictable. You should pack layers of clothing, including warm thermals and a fleece. Good quality waterproofs are essential, as rain can occur at any time.

8) Cape Range National Park, Western Australia

Just a stone's throw from the famous Ningaloo Reef lies Cape Range National Park, a place of rugged limestone ranges, deep canyons, and pristine beaches.

While most people come to this part of the world for the reef, the national park is a hidden gem in its own right. December is hot, but it's a fantastic time for snorkelling, as the water is warm and clear.

The park's main attraction is the contrast between the arid, rocky landscape and the vibrant turquoise of the Indian Ocean.

You can spend your mornings exploring the canyons, like Yardie Creek, where you can take a boat tour and spot black-footed rock wallabies.

Then, in the afternoon, head to the coast to snorkel at Turquoise Bay, one of the best beaches in Australia. The drift snorkel here is fantastic; the current carries you over the reef with minimal effort.

The park is also a great place for camping, with several campsites right on the beach. This is a destination for those who love both the outback and the ocean and want to experience them side-by-side.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Cape Range National Park, Western Australia

1. Do I need a 4WD for Cape Range National Park?

The main road through the park is sealed, so you can access many of the most popular sites, like Turquoise Bay and the Milyering Visitor Centre, with a 2WD vehicle. However, to access Yardie Creek Gorge and some of the more remote parts of the park, you will need to cross a sandy creek bed, which requires a 4WD.

2. Is it too hot to visit Cape Range National Park in December?

December is very hot and sunny, with temperatures regularly climbing into the high 30s or low 40s Celsius. You need to be well-prepared with sun protection and carry large amounts of water.

3. What is the best snorkelling spot in Cape Range National Park?

Turquoise Bay is the most famous and for good reason. The 'drift snorkel' is the most popular activity here; you walk to the southern end of the beach, swim out a short distance, and let the current carry you north over the coral gardens.

9) South Bruny, Tasmania

Bruny Island is a popular day trip from Hobart, but most visitors only scratch the surface, rarely venturing further than the main tourist spots.

To find the real gem, you need to head to South Bruny and stay for a few days. This part of the island is more rugged and remote, with dusty unsealed roads leading to spectacular scenery and incredible food producers.

You can explore the dramatic sea cliffs and visit the Cape Bruny Lighthouse, the second oldest lighthouse in Australia.

December is a great time to visit, with long daylight hours and pleasant weather. You can camp at Jetty Beach or find a quiet B&B near Cloudy Bay.

The island is a foodie's paradise, so make sure you visit the Bruny Island Cheese Company and Get Shucked oyster farm on your way back north.

South Bruny is for the traveller who likes to go a little further than everyone else and is rewarded with a more authentic and peaceful experience. It's about slowing down and enjoying the simple things.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting South Bruny, Tasmania

1. Why is South Bruny better than just a day trip to Bruny Island?

A day trip usually only covers the main highlights like The Neck and the cheese and oyster shops. By staying on South Bruny, you get to escape the day-tripper crowds and explore the wilder, more remote parts of the island.

2. What are the road conditions like in South Bruny?

While the main road down to Adventure Bay is sealed, many of the roads on South Bruny are unsealed gravel. They are generally well-maintained and accessible for a standard 2WD vehicle, but you need to drive slowly and carefully, especially after rain.

3. What should I book in advance for a trip to South Bruny?

You should book your accommodation and the ferry for your vehicle well in advance, especially for a December trip. Accommodation on the island is limited, particularly in the more remote southern part.

10) Myponga Beach, South Australia

Just an hour's drive from Adelaide, the Fleurieu Peninsula is a popular weekend getaway, but most people head to the busier towns.

Tucked away is Myponga Beach, a small, secluded cove that many visitors miss entirely. It's a quiet spot surrounded by rolling hills, with a beautiful sandy beach and incredibly clear water.

This isn't a place with a long list of attractions; its main draw is its simplicity and tranquility. It's the perfect place to switch off and relax.

You can spend your days swimming, fishing from the old jetty ruins, or simply reading a book on the beach.

The surrounding area has some lovely coastal walks with great views over the Gulf St Vincent. For a change of scenery, you can visit the nearby Myponga Reservoir or explore some of the local wineries in the region.

Myponga Beach is for the traveller who wants to find a quiet corner of a popular region and enjoy a peaceful, uncomplicated beach holiday. It's proof that you don't always have to travel far to get away from it all.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Myponga Beach, South Australia

1. Is there much to do at Myponga Beach?

Myponga Beach is all about relaxation and simplicity. The main activities are swimming in the calm, clear water, fishing, and kayaking. It's a place to unwind rather than tick off a list of sights. The real appeal is the peace and quiet.

2. Is Myponga Beach suitable for families?

Yes, it's a great spot for families with young children. The beach is sheltered, and the water is generally very calm and safe for swimming. The lack of big crowds means kids have plenty of space to run around and play on the sand.

3. What facilities are available at Myponga Beach?

Facilities are very limited, which is part of its charm. There is a caravan park and some public toilets, but not much else. The small town of Myponga is a few kilometres inland, where you can find a general store for basic supplies and a local brewery.

So there you have it. Ten places to go in Australia this December that aren't packed with thousands of other tourists.

The main takeaway here is that you just need to look beyond the obvious. Instead of the Gold Coast, try the Sapphire Coast. Instead of the Blue Mountains, head into the Flinders Ranges.

Australia's a big country, and the best bits are often the ones you have to work a little harder to get to. Don't just follow the crowds this summer; pick a spot that offers something a bit different.

One final piece of advice: no matter where you choose, book your car hire and a place to stay well in advance. Even these quieter spots can get booked up by locals who are in on the secret. Now go and have a proper adventure.

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!