Australia: Van Life, Routes and Hidden Gems

We stopped at the Aileron Hotel and Roadhouse and were pleasantly surprised. The place offers free power at each campsite, and the bathrooms were super clean with great water pressure, which is a huge plus in the middle of nowhere. There is even a washer and dryer, a welcome addition after a few days on the road. The standout feature has to be the massive Aboriginal statues that make for amazing photos, especially around sunset.

This spot was a little off the beaten path, but it was totally worth the trip. We got up early to see the wild dolphins that come into the bay and feed them, and it was one of those experiences you don’t forget. The town itself is quiet and peaceful, making it the perfect spot to just relax and unwind. We found a nice little café for breakfast after our dolphin encounter, and it felt like the kind of place where you could easily spend a slow, easy day by the water.

This beach had a real community feel, which we loved, and is a surfer’s paradise in Coolangatta. Known for its world-class waves and stunning scenery, it’s perfect for all skill levels. The water’s so clear, and the waves are great. The best part? When we got hungry, there were a few great little spots nearby to grab a bite. It felt like the perfect mix of chill beach vibes without being too far from everything.

This town is a gem for those who love the outdoors, especially if they’re into fishing. If you happen to be around in the dry season, you might catch one of the epic week-long fishing competitions. Camping by the river is a great experience. Beyond fishing, the region offers much more: there are hot springs to soak in, stunning gorges to explore, and peaceful walking trails that give you a real feel of the Northern Territory’s beauty.

Curtin Springs offers a simple but welcoming experience, perfect for travellers passing through on their way to Uluru. The free campground is a huge bonus, though amenities are paid, with a hot shower costing four dollars, which feels fair. The atmosphere is friendly, and the owners are very hospitable. Keep in mind that a powered site is much more expensive and you still need to pay for the shower, so this option is best for those who are self sufficient. Be sure to buy some fuel, snacks, or a cold drink to support the place, especially since they provide the campground at no charge.

This place has that classic outback vibe with an atmosphere that's truly one-of-a-kind. We originally planned to stay just one night but ended up extending our stay because it was so much fun. The staff was super friendly, the cold beer hit the spot, and the food was surprisingly good. Caravan park was great, with clean amenities, power, water hookups, and shady spots that made it perfect for a comfortable night. And the entertainment? Seriously, you have to see it to believe it! It’s one of those iconic stops and we highly recommend making the detour.

We enjoyed our stay at Discovery Parks. As soon as we arrived, we felt secure with the fully fenced and gated access, which was a big relief since we’d heard about some of the challenges in the area. The staff were incredibly welcoming and helpful throughout our stay, always ready with a smile and any assistance we needed. The caravan park is well-equipped with everything you could possibly need. We loved the multiple pools, especially the heated one, which made a great way to relax after exploring. The camp kitchen was spotless and had everything we needed, making meal prep super easy. Plus, they even had pancakes on Sunday mornings, which were delicious. We couldn’t believe how close it was to central Alice Springs, just a short drive, and having the brewery across the road was a fun bonus for our evenings.

We had our eyes on this spectacular spot so we decided to visit it. We started with the famous Rim Walk, which kicks off with a steep climb up 500 steps, but it gets easier after that. The views are incredible, with breathtaking cliffs and rock formations that make it worth the effort. One of our favorite parts was reaching the Garden of Eden, a hidden waterhole that feels like an oasis in the middle of the canyon. Make sure to go early in the morning to avoid the heat and carry plenty of water because the temperatures can rise quickly. For a bit of variety, the Kings Creek Walk is an easier option and still offers great scenery.

Pine Creek is a gem for anyone interested in gold mining history. We explored the heritage sites around town, and the Pine Creek Railway Station Museum was definitely a highlight with its fascinating stories and old artifacts. The whole town has a laid-back, welcoming vibe. Do not miss the local bakery. We picked up some treats there and they were amazing. It is a perfect stop if you want a bit of history and some tasty snacks.

There are no words to describe this spectacular garden made of lights. We went in the evening after a full day exploring the city, and it felt like we’d stepped into another world. The queque is a little long and the place is a little busy, but the it ended up being one of the coolest spots in Brisbane. It was like walking through a magical forest, with all the lights twinkling around us.

This riverside Italian gem came highly recommended, and it absolutely lived up to the hype. Outdoor seating lets you soak in Brisbane’s river views, which are especially stunning at sunset. We started with a shared antipasto, and the freshness of the ingredients really stood out. The pasta was handmade, and you could taste the authenticity in every bite, reminding us of meals we have enjoyed in Italy.

If you’re looking to surf on the Sunshine Coast, Kawana Beach is a fantastic choice. Known for its consistent waves, it’s a great spot for surfers of all levels. The long stretch of sandy beach provides plenty of space to catch some waves without feeling crowded. We spent the day here surfing and swimming and we ended our day watching the sunset here. Honestly, it was one of the most peaceful moments of our trip.

We spent a few days exploring the MacDonnell Ranges and discovered a hidden gem. The region is packed with stunning gorges such as Simpson's Gap, Standley Chasm, and Ormiston Gorge. We even took a dip in Ellery Creek Big Hole, refreshingly cool and exactly what you need on a hot day. I recommend arriving early to beat the heat and make the most of your visit. If you are up for a hike, the views from Mt. Sonder are absolutely worth the effort. Whether you come for a day trip or stay longer, there are plenty of trails, wildlife, and beautiful scenery to keep you busy. Bring plenty of water and do not forget your camera because this is a place you will want to remember.

This spot is an oasis for wildlife with 52 hectares of plants from Australia and around the world. From it’s beautiful rainforest to its large variety of desert plants, we spent hours wandering through different sections. The tropical dome was a highlight, and we found plenty of quiet spots to just sit and take it all in. The staff was super nice and helpful. Totally recommend!

This area is the perfect place to relax by the river while still being right in the heart of the city. One of the main highlights is Streets Beach, a man-made beach where you can swim in the lagoon or unwind on the sand, which is ideal on a hot day. The surrounding parklands are great for a picnic or a walk, with beautiful gardens, sculptures, and plenty of quiet spots to relax. For a bit of culture, visit the Queensland Art Gallery or the Queensland Museum, both offering interesting exhibits worth checking out. If you get hungry, the area is full of cafés and restaurants. River Quay has some excellent options with amazing views.

This spot is part of Belongil beach at Byron Bay and is a good place for surfing. It’s named after the shipwreck of the Wollongbar that sunk in 1922, and you can see it peeking out of the water just offshore. We loved how raw and wild this spot felt, especially with the waves crashing over the wreck. We went there for snorkeling and we would definitely go again.

This beach totally surprised us. We stumbled on it while exploring and ended up loving how chill it was. It’s perfect if you’re into paddleboarding or just want to hang by the water without the big crowds. We brought a picnic, found a shady spot, and just relaxed for hours. It’s got this super local vibe that makes you feel like you’ve found a hidden gem. There are plenty of amenities nearby, including cafes, shops, and picnic areas. The best part: it’s the perfect spot to park your van and spend a comfortable night!

Honestly, Surfers Paradise blew us away. It’s got that perfect mix of laid-back beach vibes and city energy. We spent the morning hitting the waves, and by the afternoon, we were grabbing ice cream and walking along the esplanade. At night, the whole place lights up, and you can find tons of places to eat, drink, and just soak up the atmosphere. It’s one of those spots you could come back to again and again and never get bored.

This spot, Australia’s UFO capital and originally a World War II market garden, has evolved into a quirky holiday park with a fun alien theme. It’s an interesting break on the highway, but keep in mind that the facilities are a bit outdated, so we’d suggest making it a quick stop instead of an overnight stay.

We heard so many good things about this cool spot on the Gold Coast and knew we had to check it out. It is a lively outdoor street market where you can try food from all over the world. The best part is the atmosphere, with live music, a buzzing crowd, and endless delicious food options. We grabbed some dumplings and tacos and they were both amazing. There is also a bar, so we enjoyed a couple of drinks. If you are a foodie or simply love live music, it is a must do.

This spot was absolutely mind blowing. We arrived early in the morning to beat the heat and took on the full ten kilometre walk around the base. The views were stunning, and watching the light change the colour of the rock was unreal. Make sure you pack plenty of water and wear a fly net because the flies are no joke out here. It is incredible to think about how important this place has been to the Aboriginal people for thousands of years. If you have time, a helicopter or small plane ride from the local airport offers a completely different perspective. This is one of those bucket list places you will never forget.

Buderim Forest Park feels like stepping into another world. The walk through the forest is peaceful, surrounded by lush greenery and the distant sound of the waterfall. The trail is easy, so you do not need to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy it. When we reached the falls, the scene was stunning with cascading water, natural rock pools, and hardly any crowds.