Garie Beach

How and where to spend Christmas in Australia?

My wife and I are having a 8 week holiday around Australia from Mid November to Mid January (landing in Melbourne and departing from Brisbane.) We plan to hire a car and also fly to get around the East coast, Alice and Darwin areas, mostly staying at hostels or even camping. We have no close family or friends to visit, so would welcome any ideas on where to be at xmas (anywhere except Bondi Beach, as we both aged near 40) Thanks

Public Comments

1. Well, a beach Xmas in Australia is great! If you're along the east coast you can't really go wrong with any beachside town along the NSW coast (although I'm not a fan of Port Macquarie, overpriced and touristy). A lot of caravan parks also have very nice cabins which are not too expensive (between about $100-$200). It'd be nice to stay in something like that for Xmas because you have a kitchen, utensils, refrigeration, bathroom, balcony (most of them), etc. And the beach is usually very close by. Or if you're in a major city most of the beaches have BBQs and tables.... but can get really crowded! You're better off sticking to the coast - the inland seems to empty out and gets very eerie that time of year. Xmas essentials: 1. Prawns!!! If you have refrigeration then buy them on Xmas eve, or even better, order them earlier and pick up on Xmas eve. Trying to get prawns at the last minute is nearly impossible! Same goes for crabs and oysters. Ask the locals where you are to point you to the local seafood suppliers. 2. Beer & Champagne - get everything you'll need on Xmas eve. EVERYTHING is closed on Xmas day and you don't want to get caught out. Even the pubs are closed. There is nothing worse than forgetting to buy the beer.. 3. Be Careful in the Sun - it's very tempting to have a nap on the beach after Xmas lunch..... cover up or you'll fry. I'm sure you'll have a great time wherever you are. Enjoy!
2. Hey, There are so many great spots but if I had to choose I would say go to Smoky Cape. The reasons are you get to spend Xmas on the beach which is possibly something you wouldn't experience at home. This camp ground doesn't have caravan access so that counts a lot of other people out (it is school holidays here). There is lots of local wildlife around like wild kangaroos. Beautiful secluded beach that stretches for miles and the lighthouse behind on the point is just gorgeous. Good base to visit the surrounds (South West Rocks, Cresent Head etc). Only $5 each a night with your tent. It's where I'd go if I had the chance. Smoky Cape camping area (20 sites) This low-key campground is nestled among the rainforest just below the lighthouse at Smoky Cape, on a beautiful, isolated stretch of the coast. You'll need to bring drinking water. Please take all garbage home with you. Getting there: Take the South West Rocks road, and turn onto Arakoon Road. Facilities: picnic tables, non-flush toilets
3. I love darwin but if you plan on being in Darwin dec jan it is the wet /cyclone season and will be very muggy The beaches in NSW and Qld are great but very busy over xmas you also pay high season for accommodation . that goes for camping grounds as well. Last xmas my friend and I who live on the Gold Coast went up into the hinterland at the back of the Gold Coast around the National parks and we took a xmas hamper and spent a delightful day eating walking and relaxing. Theres also some lovely areas around the glass house mountains just North of Brisbane. Many years ago we where at a loss where to be at Xmas and so we drove and followed a Sign from Canberra to Woolongong and ended up in Morton Bay National park that was also very lovely . So I suggest load the car with some special treats and just drive in the direction you want and see what you can get to , Rather like a mystery tour for Xmas. If that doesn't suit you can book a Xmas dinner in a hotel. when you are travelling call into clubs such as bowls clubs RSL clubs football clubs etc for meals ask in the towns your at which ones are good for meals as you more than likely get a really good meal far cheaper than restaurants. Bring with you a flask and a fold up esky for your car travel. There are some good road side stops for a break.
4. Hi :) I live in Perth which is the capital of Western Australia, I don't know if you'd be travelling this far over. If you do, King's Park is absolutely beautiful. Picnic lunch or early dinner would be nice there :) Otherwise, Margaret River is great too, and Mandurah which has great beaches and picnic areas.
5. there in australia are very hot xmas !!! (: two weeks before xmas australianh summer starts Good Luck ! x