With warmer weather fast approaching, it’s time to start making plans for summer long weekends. Because of the duration of flights to most international destinations, you might want to think about taking a long, long weekend — or exploring a bit of our own backyard.
Wondering where to go? These destinations are bound to make the most of that summer sunshine.
Australian public holidays over summer
National public holidays in summer are the famous ones: Christmas, Boxing Day (except SA), New Year’s Day and Australia Day. Every state has their own public holidays in this time too. Some take Christas Eve off, others make New Year’s Eve a holiday.
From October onwards, Tasmanians are the lucky recipient of more public holidays than any other state. Five across October and November are followed by one each in December and January, then another two in February. Plus all the national holidays. Maybe it’s time to move over to Tassie?
Find a full list of Australian public holidays here and see where you can take some summer long weekends without sacrificing paid time off.
1. Sydney, New South Wales
Sydney is Australia’s most-visited city and there are two great reasons you should venture over for a summer long weekend this year. Firstly, it’s on the east coast, so you can explore some of Australia’s (and by that, we mean the world’s) best beaches. And, secondly, it’s easy to get to from just about everywhere in the country.
Sydney has so much to offer holidaymakers. From fine-dining restaurants to a wide range of gorgeous cafes, you won’t go hungry here. There’s also something to do for all ages with a gamut of budget-friendly galleries and museums, kid-friendly animal attractions, and coastal walks with playgrounds throughout. With many of Australia’s most iconic structures, it’s no reason people go back time and time again.
This summer, there are also some great events in Sydney. If you’re thinking of visiting, try to book flights so you can watch the men’s Test match against Pakistan (3-7 January), enjoy Disney films for free at Darling Harbour’s outdoor cinema (12-29 January) or revel at Mardi Gras (25 February).
Start your trip here
- Save money on your trip with a budget accommodation choice like The Occidental.
- Enjoy a few luxurious nights at Taronga Zoo’s Wildlife Retreat.
- Book a lunch cruise of the famous Sydney Harbour.
2. Auckland, New Zealand
If sticking to Australia doesn’t scratch your itch to travel, a long weekend in NZ may be in order this summer. With flight times of only a few hours to Auckland (from the East Coast, at least), it’s possible to go overseas without spending too much time in the air.
Many of Auckland’s activities centre around the water. Whether you want to kayak, go whale watching or learn to surf, you’re sure to find something to do near the beaches. As well as that, you have Sky Tower in the CBD, a 60-storey building that’s taller than anything we have in Australia. There’s a cafe on level 50, 360-degree dining on 52 and a bungee jump platform on 53.
In terms of things to do over the summer, there’s Laneway Festival (late January), Splore arts festival (early Febuary) and Auckland Live Summer in the Square (starting 11 Feb). Make your journey a road trip and buzz down to Hobbiton, Rotorua and Lake Taupo!
Start your trip here
- Snag a bargain at LyLo Auckland.
- Splurge on accommodation with a stay at Hotel Fitzroy.
- See Auckland from a different angle on a half-day kayak tour.
3. Adelaide, South Australia
Adelaide offers a great weekend trip for anyone who wants to escape big city living. Direct flights are available from most Australian cities, making it a convenient summer getaway.
Adelaide has something for foodies, nature lovers and those looking for a bit of culture. Head to Adelaide Central Market for fresh produce, hot pastries and more. The CBD is dotted with small parks, surrounded by greenland and has easy access to the botanical gardens and Himeji Garden. And there’s also a state library, art gallery and impressive museum for days when you want to enjoy free air con. Set into Barossa Valley for world-class wine tasting.
If you’re looking for a special reason to have a summer long weekend in Adelaide, consider buying tickets to see Pink Floyd (1 December), going to see the Brighton Jetty Sculptures (17-28 January) or the Adelaide Fringe Festival (16 February – 17 March).
Start your trip here
- Stay at Adelaide Riviera Hotel for an affordable, cheerful and central holiday.
- Stretch the budget by spending the weekend at Eos by SkyCity.
- Book a kayak tour of a nearby dolphin sanctuary.
4. Cairns, Queensland
Cairns is one of Australia’s most beloved tourist destinations, largely thanks to its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. This natural wonder is one of the biggest draws to (and within) Australia. Sometimes travellers are a bit slow off the mark to explore their backyard, but this is one attraction definitely worth prioritising.
There are plenty of ways to explore the reef. Boats depart daily, offering you the chance to get in the water and snorkel or dive. There are also other options, like helicopter flights or pontoons. During summertime, you have a chance to see all ‘Eight Great’ animals of the GBR; giant clams, clownfish, mantas, Maori wrasse, potato cod, sharks, sea turtles, and the tail end of migrating humpback whales.
And although the reef is the stand out attraction, there’s much more to do in Cairns over a long weekend. Watch the Christmas lights be turned on (1 December), witness one of the fireworks display on NYE or just take advantage of the incredible nature trails and hiking options inland.
Start your trip here
- Stay at Mad Monkey Village and enjoy the hotel’s pool.
- Enjoy a stay with all the frills at Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort & Spa.
- Book a trip to snorkel or dive the Great Barrier Reef.
4. Bali, Indonesia
If you call Western Australia or the Northern Territory home, Bali might be easier to reach than the East Coast. Visit the Island of the Gods from November to February for a more authentic feel of the island and your pick of luxurious hotel rooms. Rain shows might be more frequent during this time, but they often don’t last long. You’ll be able to see temples, rice terraces, entertainment and more all without the crowds.
Head to Ubud for rejuvenating yoga classes, scrumptious foods, cultural shows, and UNESCO World Heritage Site rice terraces of Tagallalang. For seaside serenity, Pemuteran awaits. It’s one of Bali’s best sites for snorkeling and scuba diving along the Menjangan Reef. If you’re keen for bar hopping and scrumptious food, Kuta and Seminyak await.
Start your trip here
- Pamper yourself in the heart of Ubud at Komeneka at Bisma Ubud.
- Stay close to the beach at Blu-Zea Resort by Double Six.
- Get splashed on a river rafting trip down the Ayung River.
Ready to get planning? We can help you find the best flights, hotels and car rentals for your Summer holiday.
Want to read more?
- Save money on all your holidays by downloading the best budgeting apps for travellers.
- Want more summer long weekend options? Discover 9 destinations in Australia with cheap domestic flights.
- Find out where’s hot in December and start planning your summer trip today.
