When autumn arrives in the northern hemisphere, Australia's climate is just warming up after a mild winter. Along the gorgeous Gold Coast, ranked the number-one vacation spot for Aussie locals, according to National Geographic, visitors have long been enchanted by the rolling waves, miles of beaches and countless luxury amenities dotting the shoreline. As with much of the Australian countryside, the primary allure is not necessarily in the convenient perks, but rather the untamed wilderness that surrounds just about every major metropolitan area.
During a tour of Australia, you'll not only get to treat your senses to the rugged landscape, you'll also have the chance to hang out with koalas and kangaroos. Here are a few activities you may want to try.
Lamington National Park
After driving up the winding road to Lamington National Park, the panoramic vistas at the top of the mountain range are worth every moment spent in a tour bus. Once you take a handful of photographs, throw on a pair of walking shoes and begin your on-foot tour of the gorgeous and dense wilderness. With lush forests, well-kept paths and the ever-present smell of of freshly fallen rain, you may find it difficult to leave this truly breathtaking environmental oasis.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
You might think that interacting with koala bears is a common activity in Australia, but it's actually illegal in most parts of the country. Not at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can see the peculiar marsupials, as well as hold one of the slow-moving creatures as they amble their way up your body. Owned by the National Trust of Queensland, a nonprofit organization, the sanctuary is heavily invested in perpetuating the lives of bush animals - not only koalas, but also the Tasmanian devil, cassowary bird and even dingos.
Burleigh Heads Beach
The jaw-dropping white sand beach at Burleigh Heads is second to none, featuring not only royal blue waters, but also the distinction of being one of the best shores along the Gold Coast - which is really saying something. This beautiful beach is ideal for adventure travelers on Australia tours and has a number of rental companies for those who want to go kite surfing.
