Having traveled to many places in New South Wales and around Sydney, where I studied for my semester abroad, I learned that the East Coast of Australia has so many extraordinary places to visit. While I could easily name more than 10 places to visit on the entire East Coast of Australia, these locations stood out to my study abroad friends and me. From these adventures, I learned that nature is beautiful and that sometimes the best experiences come from the places that are not frequently talked about on the other side of the world. A couple of these places I never got to visit myself, but friends of mine did and their adventures made me quiet envious.

10. Bondi to Coogee Walk

The best coastal walk in Sydney. In between are great beaches and even one good snorkeling spot. Just watch out for the rocks in Gordon’s Bay, as a couple of my friends learned the hard way.

9. Baxters Inn (#7) and Shady Pines (#48) are ranked in the top 50 of the best bars in the world.

Anton Forte and Jason Scott own both bars. While cocktails are expensive, the experience is worth it.
 

8. Gelato Messina, Cow Moon and Anita’s

One might ask why gelato places would be on a top 10 list of all places on the East Coast. But for those that have been there, I am confident you will agree they are amazing and are well worth a visit.

7. Byron Bay

Snorkeling with sea turtles and amazing food.

6. Fraser Island

The largest sand island in the Southern Hemisphere. Do a 4WD tour to really get all the sites of this beautiful island. There are many different tours, so be sure to pick the one that best fits your itinerary.

5. Royal National Park and the Blue Mountains

A beautiful spot that can be appreciated even by those who are not nature lovers. The highlights would be Wedding Cake Rock and the Three Sisters, but I can assure you the journey itself to these spots is just as spectacular.
 

4. Port Stephens

Murray’s Brewery is a highlight that cannot be missed. Great local beers, wine tours and samples. And while you are in Port Stephens,  you might as well go sand boarding and drive ATVs on the largest moving coastal Sand Dunes in the Southern Hemisphere.

3. The Great Barrier Reef

If you are on the east coast of Australia, you should find some way to make it up to the Great Barrier Reef.

2. The Whitsunday Islands

Especially Whitehaven beach. Arlie Beach is a cool little town, Hamilton Island allows people to drive in go karts since there are no cars there and Daydream Island is very relaxing, but the highlight for sure is the national park known as Whitehaven Beach. One of the best beaches in the world, this luxurious paradise is a must-see for all Australian visitors & locals.

1. Manly Beach

From an international surfing competition to great food & wine festivals, Manly has the best to offer to all. There is also an amazing coastal walk from Manly to the Spit Bridge. Even the ferry ride over to Manly from Sydney is incredible, as you get to see the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Bridge. And don’t forget to watch the sunset over the ferry terminal while grabbing a happy hour drink at Four Pines.

Bonus

Other things to check out: Lord Howe Island, Hayman Island, the Grounds of Alexandria, the Great Ocean Road, and Jervis Bay to see the blue fluorescent algae