In most parts of Australia, Spring occurs between September and November. During September and October, the Northern Territory experiences ‘dry season’, while November marks the start of ‘wet season’, so if you’re planning on visiting Darwin or Kakadu, plan your trip for early Spring.
A great time to visit Australia is in the shoulder season (Spring and Autumn) when prices are lower and crowds are less. In most states, school break occurs between late September and mid-October, so keep an eye out for local families heading on vacation during this time.
1• Explore a beachside sculpture park in Sydney
It’s absolutely spectacular to see Sydney in Spring. It is not only that the harbor sparkles, the sun glints of the Opera House, and the surf rolls hypnotically onto the endless beaches, but also the city is bathed in vibrant purple jacaranda blossoms. For a better chance of spotting them, stroll through areas like Lavender Bay, Mosman, Cremorne, Camperdown or Paddington.
There is a jacaranda festival in the rural town of Grafton. From October to December, spend some time exploring the breathtaking temporary sculpture park at Sculpture by the Sea, located just a short walk from Bondi. You can attend Randwick Racecourse’s Spring Racing Carnival as well.
2• Sip wine and soak in hot springs near Melbourne
During Spring time in Melbourne, the city comes alive. There are a number of sporting events in Melbourne that people can attend, including the Australian Football League (AFL) Grand Final and the Melbourne Cup – a race that brings a nation to its feet. A rooftop bar in Melbourne is the perfect place to soak up the Spring sun.
Yarra Valley, the Grampians, or the Great Ocean Road are among the top destinations for escapes from the city. Spend a few days hiking or exploring the Great Ocean Road for wildflowers if you’d like. During a sunny Spring afternoon on the Mornington Peninsula, you can walk along the beach or visit wineries before relaxing in heated thermal pools at Peninsula Hot Springs.
3• Hike, raft or cruise through Tasmania
During spring in Tasmania, you can experience both hints of Summer and reminders of Winter, so pack accordingly. You can take advantage of the area’s lovely multi-day hikes such as the Three Capes Track to observe migrating whales and walk through coastal heath in bloom.
The Southern Lights (Aurora Australis) will light up the night sky during the Spring equinox, so be sure to head outside of the city. Taking a boat cruise to Bruny Island for some wildlife spotting or rafting along the Franklin River is an adventure you won’t forget.
4• Go to the Spring Racing Carnival in Melbourne
There is no doubt that the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival is the highlight of the Australian racing year. The event features 50 days of world-class horse racing action featuring Australian and international thoroughbreds. As part of the Spring Carnival, the city of Melbourne comes to life with a carnival-like atmosphere, and horse racing is available today.
Final Thoughts
There are many other things to do in Spring in Australia, but it would be impossible to include them in this short article. Although some of the greatest Spring activities in Australia have been missed, we have managed to include some of the best ones. If you think we have missed anything else that makes Spring in Australia great, please let us know.
