While Australia is famed for its natural wonders, beyond the well known landmarks there’s a quirky side that's all our own. From underground towns and sunken gardens to pink lakes and ghostly quarantine stations, there’s no shortage of unusual places to visit in Australia. If you're seeking something off the beaten track, here are some of the wonderfully weird spots across the country.
Umpherston Sinkhole, South Australia
A collapsed limestone cave caused by rain pooling and dissolving the limestone in the earth, the sinkhole was restored into beautiful gardens in the 1970s. Image credit: South Australia Tourism Commission
When it comes to unusual attractions, South Australia has more than its fair share. Another quirky contender is the Umpherston Sinkhole, an enchanting sunken garden in the heart of Mount Gambier. A collapsed limestone cave caused by rain pooling and dissolving the limestone in the earth, the sinkhole was restored into beautiful gardens in the 1970s. Measuring 50m across and 20m deep, you can get a sense of its size and depth from the viewing platforms above.
Make your way down into the terraced gardens via the wooden stairs and walkways. Draped in lush curtains of hanging ivy, it’s like stepping into a fantasy world, particularly magical at dusk when possums emerge from their hiding spots. Bring a picnic and enjoy the tranquil surroundings, or wander through the gardens to admire the creative landscaping that makes this attraction so unique.
Where to stay
The Comfort Inn The Lakes in picturesque Mount Gambier offers quiet accommodation within easy reach of the Umpherston Sinkhole and other attractions.
Museum of Underwater Art, Queensland
MOUA’s underwater installations holds the Guinness World Record for the largest underwater art structure. Image credit: Tourism Australia
Heading north to sunny Queensland, take a dive into the magical, underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef where art and the environment come together. The Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA), off the coast of Townsville, is not only a stunning visual spectacle but it plays an important role in safeguarding the reef, promoting coral restoration and protecting marine life.
Featuring a series of sculptures submerged at a depth of 5m by renowned artist Jason deCaires Taylor, MOUA’s underwater installations include the striking figures of the Ocean Sentinels, and the Coral Greenhouse, which holds the Guinness World Record for the largest underwater art structure. You can snorkel, dive, or view the artworks from a glass-bottom boat, in an unforgettable experience that blends art, science, and environmental awareness.
Where to stay
After a big day snorkelling at the Museum of Underwater Art Townsville, relax in quality accommodation at the Clarion Hotel Townsville, centrally-located and only a five-minute walk to local shops and restaurants.
Pink lakes, Western Australia
You can visit the island by boat or helicopter, and enjoy a scenic flight to take in the lake’s striking contrast against the surrounding landscape. Image credit: Tourism Australia
Western Australia is renowned for its stunning pink lakes, a natural phenomenon that looks out of this world. Lake Hillier on Middle Island, known as the pink lake, Esperance, is no exception. The cause of the lake’s bubblegum-pink hue is a mystery, likely from algae or bacteria in the water, and while its colour can change depending on the season and water conditions, the sight is breathtaking.
You can visit the island by boat or helicopter, and enjoy a scenic flight to take in the lake’s striking contrast against the surrounding landscape. There are also camp ruins on the island of Australia’s only known pirate, Black Jack Anderson, who roamed the area in the 1830s. Nearby, you’ll find the white sands and turquoise waters of Esperance, including the famous Lucky Bay, where inquisitive kangaroos often join beachgoers on the sand.
Where to stay
In beautiful Esperance near the pink Lake Hillier, enjoy a relaxing stay opposite the beach at the Comfort Inn Bay of Isles.
Quarantine Station, New South Wales
A peaceful heritage location by day, its famous ‘after-dark’ ghost tours will take you through its eerie past and spine-tingling tales of paranormal activity. Image credit: Andrew Gregory; Destination NSW
Perched on Sydney’s North Head with stunning harbour views, the historic Quarantine Station, Sydney, or Q Station, has a fascinating history. Now considered one of Australia’s most haunted locations, it was a quarantine facility for arriving immigrants, suspected of carrying infectious diseases, for over 150 years from 1828 to 1984. Now part of the Sydney Harbour National Park, the 30-acre site was chosen for its isolation at the time.
A peaceful heritage location by day, its famous ‘after-dark’ ghost tours will take you through its eerie past and spine-tingling tales of paranormal activity. Wander through the historic hospital precinct and the Gravediggers Cottage on your hunt for ghostly sightings. If spooky stories aren’t your thing, the Q Station also offers a museum and history tours during the day and a relaxing retreat where you can enjoy kayaking, whale watching, or dining at the on-site restaurant.
Where to stay
You’ll find plenty of quality accommodation in Sydney, in both the inner city and inner west, including boutique hotels and Cuban-inspired pubs.
Staircase to the Moon, Western Australia
The Staircase to the Moon is a magical event, creating a spectacular illusion of a glowing staircase reaching up to the moon. Image credit: Tourism Western Australia
To witness a different kind of ethereal phenomenon, head out west to the Kimberly and Pilbara coastline of Western Australia. Drawing visitors from around the world, the Staircase to the Moon is a magical event where, during certain months at low tide, the full moon rises up over the tidal mudflats, creating a spectacular illusion of a glowing staircase reaching up to the moon.
The wide and expansive mudflats of Hearson’s Cove, near Karratha, are one of the best spots to see this captivating sight, which happens two or three nights a month from March to October. Pack a picnic, grab your camera, and prepare to be mesmerised by this breathtaking illusion of nature.
Where to stay
The Econo Lodge Karratha and Comfort Inn & Suites Karratha offer spacious and comfortable accommodation, ideal for exploring the area and the Staircase to the Moon.
Cactus Country, Victoria
Dubbed a little piece of Mexico on the Murray, Cactus Country is a quirky desert oasis in the heart of Victoria. Image credit: Tourism Australia
Dubbed a little piece of Mexico on the Murray, Cactus Country is a quirky desert oasis in the heart of Victoria, and the largest cactus garden in Australia. Located near Cobram, about three hours from Melbourne, the 12-acre garden features over 1000 different plant species. Wander the sandy trails through themed gardens featuring cacti and succulents from across the globe, and be transported to the Mexican Mojave, African Sahara and the Argentinian Patagonia.
The whimsical backdrop makes for fantastic photo opportunities, especially in the Valley of the Giants, and when the desert blooms during the spring flowering season in October and November. Afterwards, you can refuel at the on-site bar and restaurant that serves up delicious cactus-themed treats like cactus cake and cactus ice cream, as well frozen margaritas and homemade nachos.
Where to stay
Take time out in a self-contained apartment, modern suite or spa room at the Quality Hotel Parklake, centrally-located in the heart of nearby Shepparton, perfect for exploring the wild and wacky Cactus Country.
Header image credit: Mike Haines