Warm Australian winter destinations: 6 hot holiday spots

Winter can be a daunting time for sun worshippers. While it's easy to hibernate indoors and wait for spring, there are plenty of Australian holiday destinations that remain hot through the winter months. We're highlighting the top half of the country, from Western Australia to Queensland's coast, so don't pack away your summer clothes just yet.

Planning your winter getaway is now easier than ever with Camplify, Australia's leading peer-to-peer campervan rental platform. Rent unique vans directly from local owners, with easy booking options right in your neighbourhood. Whether you're starting your journey from a major city or a regional hub, Camplify has you covered with a wide range of campervans and motorhomes to suit your travel style.

1. Cairns, Queensland

Cairns, in Far North Queensland, is a tropical paradise offering a whole bunch of adventurous activities. The city is home to the Great Barrier Reef, of course, which should be right at the top of any explorer’s bucket list. Snorkel, dive or take a scenic helicopter ride to experience the World Heritage-listed ecosystem up close.

Natural wonders aside, Cairns boasts a vibrant dining and nightlife scene, with energy fueled by international travellers. If you're starting your journey from Brisbane, it's about a 19-hour drive (1700 km) north along the stunning Queensland coast. Alternatively, you can fly into Cairns Airport and rent a campervan locally to explore the region.

2. Monkey Mia, Western Australia

Zooming over to the west coast of Australia now, where you’ll have an opportunity to join the friendly local dolphins at Monkey Mia. These bottlenose beauties swim right up to the shore to play with visitors, makingMonkey Mia a popular spot for all kinds of campers throughout the year. There are also plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkelling and fishing, while nearby Francois Peron National Park offers stunning views of red cliffs and crystal-clear water. The best part? You can expect daily temperatures in the low-to-mid twenties that are perfect for a morning kayak.

For those starting from Perth, it's approximately an 8-hour drive (850 km) north to reach Monkey Mia. The journey itself is an adventure, taking you through the diverse landscapes of Western Australia.

3. Townsville, Queensland

Back to Queensland, folks, specifically Townsville, another launching-off point for the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef. Though it sweats through the summer, Townsville feels just right in the winter, so make the most of it with a hike up Castle Hill for panoramic views of the city. You could also visit Magnetic Island for some kayaking and snorkelling or to cruise around in an iconic Mini Moke car. Townsville also boasts a lively arts and culture scene, with a number of galleries and museums to explore; alternatively, soak up the warm temperatures and sunny skies, Townsville is a great destination for a winter holiday.

Townsville is about a 4.5-hour drive (350 km) south from Cairns or a 15-hour drive (1300 km) north from Brisbane. The city also has its own airport, making it easy to fly in and pick up a campervan for your winter adventure.

4. Coolum Beach, Queensland

After a more laid-back beach getaway? Coolum Beach, on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, may just be the perfect destination. The town boasts a long, sandy beach perfect for swimming, surfing and topping up that tan. It’s also home to a number of restaurants and cafes, as well as a buzzy market that's held every second Sunday. If you're looking to explore the area, you could also take a scenic drive up to the nearby Noosa National Park. Average July temperatures hover around the 20-degree mark, so it’s not the warmest winter destination, but it sure beats freezing your scarf off on the cultured streets of Melbourne.

Coolum Beach is easily accessible from Brisbane, just a 1.5-hour drive (120 km) north. This makes it perfect for a quick weekend getaway or a longer coastal exploration.

5. Broome, Western Australia

Broome has captured the hearts of so many travellers and it’s no surprise why. The pearling town, in Western Australia’s Kimberley region, has a surprisingly multicultural feel to it thanks to the migrants from Malaysia, Indonesia, China, Japan and Europe who came seeking riches in centuries past. Add in a strong First Nations culture, outdoor activities galore and plenty of laidback spots to have a drink and a bite to eat, and you’ve got yourself an epic winter holiday destination. Oh, and did we mention the sunset camel rides along Cable Beach?

Broome is quite remote, located about a 22-hour drive (2200 km) north of Perth. Many visitors choose to fly into Broome International Airport and rent a campervan in Broometo explore the Kimberley region.

6. Darwin and Kakadu, Northern Territory

Every Australian – and every international traveller, for that matter – should pay a visit to the Northern Territory at some point. And what better time than winter? Darwin and Kakadu can become unbearable through the summer, but once the mercury (and humidity) drops, these far-flung places offer so much. Explore Darwin’s markets, museums and galleries, take a sunset cruise, and be sure to head south-east to Kakadu and explore its waterfalls, gorges and historic rock art sites. There are plenty of tour operators waiting to take you on a winter adventure through one of Australia’s most famous landscapes.

Darwin is about a 4-hour flight from most major Australian cities. Once in Darwin, you can rent a campervan to explore the city and venture into Kakadu National Park, which is about a 3-hour drive (250 km) southeast of Darwin.

How to Book Your Winter Adventure with Camplify

Ready to embark on your warm winter escape? Booking your ideal campervan with Camplify is simple and straightforward. Here's how it works:

1. Search for vans in your chosen starting location.

2. Browse through the available options and select the one that suits your needs.

3. Request to book without any upfront payment.

4. Complete the payment once the van owner accepts your booking.

Don't let the winter blues keep you indoors. Set your heart on a warm winter adventure and hire a campervan, caravan, or motorhome with Camplify today.