Cheap Places in Australia for Solo Female Travel
1, Merimbula
Merimbula, a slice of coastal heaven located on the Far South Coast of New South Wales, Australia, is a travel destination known for its stunning natural beauty. Perfectly nestled between Tura, Pambula, and Back Lake, Merimbula enchants visitors with its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush hinterland. Famed for its fresh oysters and incredible seafood, the town equally captivates water lovers with its plethora of activities, including fishing, boating, and surfing. The panoramic views of the Merimbula Boardwalk, the exotic wildlife of Potoroo Palace Native Animal Sanctuary, and the exciting Magic Mountain amusement park are just some of the many treasures waiting to be discovered in this coastal paradise.
2, Ayr
Ayr is a tranquil town situated in the heart of Queensland, Australia, approximately 88 kilometers south of Townsville. Nestled within the Burdekin Shire, the town is particularly famous for its enchanting agricultural landscape and as a major sugar cane and mango producing area. Ayr is synonymous with the remarkable Burdekin Bridge that spans the Burdekin River, a beautiful sight especially when it becomes a waterfall during a flood. Known for its diverse fishing opportunities due to its proximity to pristine waterholes, rivers, and the Great Barrier Reef, Ayr is a true paradise for nature lovers and fishing enthusiasts. The town's vibrant main street, rustic heritage buildings, thriving arts community, and friendly locals paint a picture of a charming Australian rural town with picturesque sights and activities.
3, Magnetic Island
Located just 8 kilometers off the coast of Townsville, Australia, Magnetic Island is a glorious tropical paradise renowned for its outstanding natural beauty. Often known as "Maggie" by the locals, this destination is home to the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, remarkable hiking trails with breathtaking scenic views, and a wealth of native wildlife. Magnetic Island offers 23 stunning beaches and bays with azure waters ideal for snorkeling and exploring the abundant marine life. Covered by two-thirds national park, the island is well-known for its large population of wild koalas, rock wallabies, and myriad bird species, making it a haven for nature lovers and avid explorers. Whether you're dissolving stress at a deluxe spa, kayaking in the clear waters, or soaking up history at WWII fortifications, Magnetic Island offers a world of discoveries for everyone.
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4, Mackay
Mackay, nestled on the eastern coast of Australia, is known for its sublime stretch of 31 tropical beaches and lush subtropical rainforests. Primarily recognized for its booming sugar industry, Mackay is fondly touted as the "sugar capital of Australia", housing near about a third of the country's total sugar farms. This picturesque city offers tourists a plethora of activities, from fishing in Pine Islet light, Queensland's oldest operating lighthouse, exploring diverse offshore islands, engaging in winding walks through Eungella National Park to possibly spotting a platypus in the wild, and witnessing the extraordinary spectacle of migrating whales. The marina area and unique Art Deco architecture perfectly characterize the charm of this coastal city, making Mackay a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a tranquil yet adventurous Australian retreat.
5, Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef, located off the northeastern coast of Australia, is the largest and most biodiverse coral reef system on the planet. Stretching over 2,300km, it's renowned worldwide for its outstanding array of marine life, including 600 types of soft and hard corals, more than 1,600 species of fish, and diverse fauna ranging from dugongs to turtles — many of which can be appreciated through renowned snorkeling and diving experiences. The reef, made up of about 900 different islands, is so vast that it can actually be seen from outer space, making it an irreplaceable natural wonder known for its surreal beauty and significance to the planet's ecological health.
6, Airlie Beach
Airlie Beach is a vibrant coastal town nestled in Northern Queensland, Australia, renowned as the gateway to the pristine Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. Known for its stunning white sandy beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, and lush palm trees, this heavenly town promises a memorable experience for both adventure seekers and tranquility lovers. Numerous sailing trips originate here, providing an unparalleled opportunity to explore the islands and the rich underwater marine life. The bustling Airlie Beach Lagoon, set on the town's waterfront, is a free public swimming spot surrounded by parkland and eateries that the city boasts. Adding to its appeal are the lively nightlife scene, waterfront markets, and a variety of restaurants catering to every taste palate.
7, Whitsunday Islands
Located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef off the Queensland coast of Australia, the Whitsunday Islands are a dazzling group of 74 tropical islands, enveloped in pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Known for their stunning natural beauty and diverse marine life, the Whitsundays are a paradise for those seeking adventure and relaxation alike, offering a range of activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, and fishing. The iconic Whitehaven Beach, Heart Reef, and Hamilton Island are among the star attractions. From exploring the underwater wonders of the reef, hiking through the subtropical rainforest, or simply basking in the glorious sunshine, the Whitsunday Islands provide an unforgettable Australian travel experience.
8, Bowen
Bowen is a picturesque coastal town in Queensland, Australia known for its lush tropical landscapes, pristine beaches, and abundant local seafood. Located halfway between Townsville and Mackay, Bowen provides a unique travel destination filled with natural beauty and history. Renowned for its breathtaking award-winning beaches, the area is a paradise for water and nature enthusiasts. Many visitors engage in snorkeling, fishing, and exploring the adjacent Great Barrier Reef. The town is also recognised as the filming location for the movie Australia, featuring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman. Additionally, renowned for its diverse variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables, Bowen is notably considered the 'Mango Capital' of Australia.
9, Charters Towers
Located in northern Queensland, Australia, Charters Towers is a charming and historically rich town that has been drawing tourists for years. Renowned for its illustrious past in the gold mining era, the town possesses a unique blend of architectural styles from that period, from grand hotels and majestic banks to private homes-- each brimming with captivating tales of gold-laden times. The Stock Exchange Arcade, Towers Hill Lookout and Amphitheatre, and World Theatre are among the notable attractions. Apart from these, Charters Towers is also a gateway to the outback, offering a variety of natural attractions, such as imposing granite boulders in White Mountains National Park. Furthermore, the town is home to the annual country music festival, known as the Charters Towers Country Music Festival, which attracts artists and fans from across the nation.
10, Weipa
Weipa, located on the western coast of Cape York Peninsula in Far North Queensland, Australia, is a charming coastal town synonymous with stunning natural beauty and raw, untamed wilderness. Known for its vast bauxite deposits, Weipa is the global capital of bauxite mining, providing a unique attraction for science and nature enthusiasts. Greatly celebrated for its spectacular fishing grounds, Weipa offers a riveting experience for fishing enthusiasts, assisted by its fertile waters which teem with a multitude of fish species such as barramundi. Visitors can also delve into the town's rich history at the Albatross Bay Resort, where indigenous culture, colonial history, and mining heritage combine to offer impactful insights.
11, Cooktown
Nestled on the northeast coast of Queensland, Australia, the historic town of Cooktown is a haven for adventurers and history buffs alike. Known as the site where Captain James Cook beached his ship, the Endeavour, it's a town steeped in rich history with the James Cook Museum showcasing Cook's remarkable voyage. Visitors revel in the natural beauty of nearby Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Offering breathtaking landscapes, excellent fishing opportunities, indigenous art galleries, and fascinating bush-tucker tours, Cooktown creates a unique blend of authenticity and cultural richness that leaves a lasting impression on every traveler.
12, Palm Cove
Palm Cove, a unique, quiet and relaxing village by the sea where centuries old "paperbark" Melaleuca trees line the casual esplanade, is nestled in the northern beaches district of Cairns, Australia. Known for its beautiful beach and bustling seaside village atmosphere, it offers a sense of calm, charm, and sophistication. Famous for its diverse range of world-class restaurants, boutique shopping centers and luxurious beachfront hotels and resorts, Palm Cove is an idyllic tropical destination to relax and unwind. Its centerpiece, a stunning, palm-fringed beach and proximity to both the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, makes it a popular choice with tourists, offering abundant opportunities for snorkelling, diving, hiking, and wildlife spotting.
13, Daintree
Located in the far north of Queensland, Australia, Daintree is a unique and enchanting destination known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. As an integral part of the Daintree Rainforest, considered to be one of the oldest rainforests in the world, it presents an astonishing spectacle of lush vegetation and a vast array of both plant and animal species. The splendour of Daintree is magnified by seamless rivers and creeks, striking mountain ranges, along with the marvel of the Great Barrier Reef in close proximity. Known for eco-tourism, visitors to Daintree can indulge in activities such as bird watching, jungle surfing, crocodile spotting on a Daintree River cruise, taking a guided night walk in the jungle, and exploring the diverse flora and fauna, marking it as an essential destination for nature seekers.
14, Port Douglas
Port Douglas, as a haven in Far North Queensland, Australia, lies approximately 70 kilometers north of Cairns with picturesque landscapes where the Great Barrier Reef meets the rainforest at Daintree. Known for its tropical climate, exclusive coastal cosmopolitan lifestyle, and friendly village community, it is your ideal gateway to the astounding biodiversity of the Wet Tropics. From the bustling Macrossan Street that satisfies your shopping and dining cravings to the world’s oldest rainforest, Daintree National Park, ready for exploration, Port Douglas promises versatility. The region also prides itself on its Four Mile Beach, Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina, and numerous eco-tourism sites, including Wildlife Habitat sanctuary, packing your visit with fun-filled and awe-inspiring experiences both terrestrial and aquatic.
15, Cairns & the Tropical North
Cairns, located in the tropical north of Queensland, Australia, serves as both a euphoric gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and a dynamic hub of culture and eco-adventure. Hosting a striking blend of azure coral waters and lush rainforests, it's renowned for its natural beauty, emerging as a pristine spectacle of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area including the Daintree Rainforest. This vibrant city brings in thrill-seekers with its offerings of hiking, snorkeling, and white-water rafting, while the indigenous Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park gives a glimpse of its rich cultural history. With bustling markets, trendy cafes, and a vibrant nightlife, Cairns perfectly juxtaposes relaxation and excitement, making it an irresistible magnet for global explorers.
16, Innisfail
Innisfail, a charming rural town situated in the heart of North Queensland, Australia, offers visitors an exquisite blend of natural beauty and cultural diversity. Known for its lush green landscapes under the backdrop of spellbinding rainforests and striking rivers, Innisfail remains a prominent hub for sugar cane and banana production. Its architectural gems, borrowed from the Art Deco era, harmonize beautifully with its pristine environment. Within a short drive from the Great Barrier Reef — one of the seven wonders of the natural world — Innisfail attracts eco-tourists who come to adore its unique flora, fauna, fruit bat colonies, and many national parks like the popular Wooroonooran National Park.
17, Atherton Tablelands
Situated amidst the tropical backdrop of Far North Queensland in Australia, the Atherton Tablelands is a breathtakingly beautiful destination that offers an intriguing blend of awe-inspiring natural beauty and scintillating cultural experiences. Known for its fertile lands, the region is teeming with lush rainforests, spectacular landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and serene crater lakes. It also features a bevy of exquisite wildlife including the spectacled flying foxes and tree kangaroos. With its remarkable array of gourmet food trails, coffee plantations, and vineyards, the Tablelands are an epicurean's paradise. Whether it's the mesmerizing history and heritage in the outback towns or the lively markets offering fresh local products, Atherton Tablelands offers an unforgettable holiday experience for all types of travelers.
18, Mission Beach
Mission Beach, located in North Queensland, Australia, is famed for its compelling beauty, a fine blend of tropical rainforest and sandy beaches, making it an idyllic retreat spot for beach lovers. Surrounded by the lush greenery of the World Heritage rainforest, home to the rare Cassowary bird, and lying adjacent to the Great Barrier Reef - one of the seven natural wonders of the world, Mission Beach offers opportunities for various activities such as skydiving, fishing, rainforest walks, and water sports. The picturesque sunset views, incredible marine life, and sophisticated beachside resorts make Mission Beach the perfect spot for relaxation and adventure alike.
19, Cardwell
Cardwell is a picturesque coastal town located in Tropical North Queensland, Australia, about halfway between Cairn and Townsville. Known as the gateway to Hinchinbrook Island, Cardwell is famed for its thriving seafood scene, idyllic beachfront locale, and authentic local arts and craft market. The town is surrounded by natural beauty, boasting a stunning backdrop of offshore islands and rugged, pristine rainforests. It's the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts with its numerous hiking trails, tranquil fishing spots, and the iconic Cardwell Spa Pool, a natural freshwater pool that changes color with the sunlight. The town's atmosphere is laid-back and relaxed, making it an ideal escape for those looking for a serene coastal retreat.
20, Lord Howe Island
Nestled in the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean, Lord Howe Island, Australia, is truly a paradisiacal wonder. Located approximately 600 kilometers east of mainland Port Macquarie, it boasts a pristine environment, stunning landscapes, and a blend of wildlife unique to the island. Renowned for its breathtaking coral reefs, clear waters, and rich biodiversity, it offers an abundant array of outdoor adventures, attracting diving enthusiasts and bird-watchers globally. Boasting eleven sandy beaches with Mount Gower as its dramatic backdrop, the island's main highlights include accessible snorkeling spots, hand-feeding fishes at Ned’s Beach, and exploring the kentia palm forest. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its global natural significance, Lord Howe Island truly establishes itself as an idyllic sanctuary for those in quest of an undisturbed retreat.
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