What do you think of when you read the word “Australia”? Boomerangs, vegemite, and kangaroos? Hugh Jackman and Crocodile Dundee? There are plenty of cultural touchstones we associate with the land down under—the sixth largest nation in the world.

Still, Australia has far more to offer than koalas and didgeridoos. One of the best things about living there is chasing the unknown: off-the-beaten-track locales, hotspots that locals love, and secluded spaces that shout “adventure!”

Leading Out has compiled an extensive list of places we’ve personally visited and gathered from our friends scattered across the country. In this four part blog series, we’ll introduce you to 23 of Australia’s best and little-known destinations—places travel guides wish they knew about!

Your next roadtrip is waiting, just scroll down!

1. Snorkel with Whale Sharks on Ningaloo Reef
This fringing reef is a stone’s throw away from the shores of Exmouth, Turquoise, and Coral Bay. It’s Australia’s only large coral reef accessible with nothing more than a snorkel and fins.

As you enter the shallow, tranquil waters you are likely to encounter a gentle giant, the world’s largest fish, the WHALE SHARK. The Coral Coast is one of a few places on the planet where whale shark migration patterns are predicted, as they seek mass amounts of plankton. It’s an Australian must!

When To Go
April – July; specifically May and June

Location
North West Australia, about 1,200km north of Perth

Top Operator
Ningaloo Whaleshark-n-Dive
08 9949 1116
www.ningaloowhalesharkndive.com.au/

2. Dive Navy Pier in Exmouth

While you’re in the Coral Coast, why not see all that the Ningaloo Reef and its abundant aquatic life has to offer at Navy Pier? Whether you’re an experienced diver or it’s your first time, this shallow dive site provides opportunities for everyone.

Expect to see more marine life in a single dive than most people will see in a lifetime: angelfish, sharks, sea turtles, and much more! Navy Pier at Point Murat consistently ranks in the world’s top 10 shore dives, and is not to be missed! Important note: Navy Pier is actually on American soil and you’ll need a passport to access the pier itself.

When To Go
March – July; only accessible at low tide

Location
North West Australia, about 1,200km north of Perth

Top Operator
Three Islands Whale Shark Dive
08 9949 1994
http://www.whalesharkdive.com

3. Share the Beach with a Kangaroo in Lucky Bay, Esperance

Postcards have led us to believe that kangaroos spend most of their time lounging on the beach, but the reality is they rarely venture onto seaside sand—unless of course, that sand is located on one of the country’s most beautiful beaches!

When the crowds leave Lucky Bay, kangaroos emerge from the bush to lay in the sand. Why? Perhaps to witness one of Western Australia’s secret gems in Cape Le Grand National Park, or work on their tan. This common occurrence is a chance to spend your evenings with the furry locals. Even if you don’t spot a ‘roo, you’ll be happy just to have spent some time with the amazing view.

When To Go
November – March; temperatures are in the mid-20s (Celsius).

Location
Lucky Bay, Cape Le Grand National Park, Western Australia

4. Pay Attention to the Ugly Duckling at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Here at Leading Out we like to think everyone can recognize the famous Ayer’s Rock—also known as Uluru—but how many know about Kata Tjuta, its impressive sibling? For years, Uluru has stolen the show, and now we think it’s time to pay attention to an equally impressive rock formation about 60km away.

Similar in colour and composition, Kata Tjuta—also called The Olgas—offers a breathtaking hike called Valley of The Winds. Take a sunrise walk to catch the many colours as the light washes over the landmark. As you hike, you may be lucky enough to spot a camel, rock wallaby, echidna, or dingo. This is the Red Center, so take your time exploring, and bring your camera!

When To Go
April or May; less heat and flies
September and October; desert flowers are in bloom

Location
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Petermann, Northern Territory

5. Spot a Koala in Otway National Park

For thousands of immigrants, Cape Otway was the first sight of land after leaving their maiden country. For you, Cape Otway will offer you your first glimpse of one of Australia’s most iconic animals—the koala.

Hours of hiking and driving around the country have taught us that koalas aren’t dripping from every tree. In order to spot one of these cuddly creatures, we recommend taking The Great Ocean Road, specifically halfway down Otway Lighthouse Road. Keep your eyes on the treetops—once you spot your first koala, you’ll quickly become an expert at pointing out entire colonies!

When To Go
Anytime

Location
Otway Lighthouse Road, Cape Otway National Park, Victoria

6. See Dozens of Kangaroos at The Dutchman

It’s basically a rule: you can’t leave Australia without checking “see a kangaroo” off your to-do list! No need to worry, we know a place! The Dutchman’s Stern Conservation Park in the Flinders Ranges sees them springing around everywhere.

Upon parking your car and taking a deep breath of fresh air, you will quickly begin to spot these timid marsupials in the grass and on the hills. Hike around, and while you’re here, enjoy the rest of the Flinders Ranges like Wilpena Pound, rock paintings at Yourambulla Caves, a drink at the North Star Hotel/Pub, and wrap it up at Rawnsley Park Station.

Note: we recommend you don’t drive through the park at night (unless you are craving kangaroo steak and a new front end of your vehicle).

When To Go
Anytime

Location
Dutchman’s Stern Conservation Park, Flinders Ranges, South Australia

With that, we’ve reached the end of this week’s instalment. We hope you’ve got some new adventure fuel in the tank, and tons of fresh ideas for your next vacation. Click back here next week for part two of four in the series, and more great things to do in Oz!