The best places in Australia to visit in November

Overall, November is a great, balanced month for travel in Australia as it falls outside the busy school holiday periods - meaning both flight and accommodation prices are typically still reasonable during this part of the year. Add in some still-colourful landscapes with floral blooms providing some extra splash for many sightseeing adventures, and you've got a solid all-around month for taking a trip. But where are some of the best places in Australia to travel in November? Here's our list of five can't-miss getaway spots, as well as what each has to offer.

Average Temperatures in November: 14.5C (58.1F) to 23C (73.4F)

Top experiences and things to do: Visit Fremantle Prison; go Whale Watching; the Army Museum of WA; Little Creatures Brewery; WA Maritime Museum; travel to Rottnest Island

Getting there: 30 minute drive from Perth

Fremantle isn't just Perth's little sibling; it's a standout travel spot in its own right. It serves as Australia's welcoming doorway for cruise travelers and boasts historical charm, coastal beauty, and a diverse cityscape. Wander through its streets to find British architecture, European-style cafes, and heritage attractions that set it apart. Maritime history is a core part of Fremantle's identity, showcased in landmarks like Fremantle Prison, Western Australian Maritime Museum, and Army Museum of Western Australia. Alongside stunning beaches and a vibrant pub and coffee scene, November is an excellent time to visit with its sunny days and minimal rain. Don't miss the whale watching season, and a short boat ride takes you to Rottnest Island for nature, seclusion, and military history. With all this goodness packed in, Fremantle shines as a perfect destination this November.

Average Temperatures in November: 13.2C (55.7F) to 25.1C (77.2F)

Top experiences and things to do: Enjoy the quality beaches; Pelican feeding at The Entrance; visit the Australian Reptile Park; walk to Norah Head Lighthouse; family fun at Treetops Adventure Park; go fishing; take a cruise.

Getting there: 1 hour drive north of Sydney

enture an hour-plus drive to the north of Sydney in New South Wales, and you'll find not just one destination but a collection of charming coastal towns forming the Central Coast region. Offering an ideal blend of getaways, this area stretches from Umina Beach to Northern Lakes, providing a range of choices to bask in the pleasant November weather. While anchored by Gosford and Wyong, it's the smaller towns like Avoca Beach, Lake Macquarie, The Entrance, and Woy Woy that enchant visitors with their distinct character and natural allure. Water takes center stage, boasting stunning waterways, lakes, rivers, and inviting sandy shores perfect for boating, fishing, surfing, and leisurely beach strolls. For on-shore adventures, the lush hinterland boasts walking tracks, lookout points, and national parks. Family-friendly attractions like Amazement Farm, Australian Reptile Park, and TreeTops Central Coast add to the appeal. Avoiding school holidays enhances the experience, allowing you to savor the unwinding atmosphere of this hidden gem, where coastal enjoyment is at its purest.

Average Temperatures in November: 9.5C (49.1F) to 20.7C (69.2F)

Top experiences and things to do: Visit the National Wool Museum; food and drinks at Little Creatures Brewery; stroll through Geelong Botanical Gardens; see an AFL footy match; go swimming or surfing; drive to Queenscliff and swim with seals and dolphins

Getting there: 1 hour by car or train from Melbourne

Melbourne's cool cousin, Geelong, is giving itself a makeover from an industrial center to a charming blend of rustic heritage and modern vibes, complete with waterfront beauty and cool day trip spots. It's like they've taken the best parts of history and added a dash of indie flair, resulting in a foodie heaven with cafes, bars, and Little Creatures brewing magic. Don't even think about skipping this gem on your way to the Great Ocean Road – you'd be missing out on a seriously unique urban experience. Geelong's got historic architecture jazzed up into cool hangouts that serve up drinks with character, making the cityscape pop with culture and revelry. And art lovers, you're in for a treat, with awesome galleries like the National Wool Museum and Geelong Gallery. Hungry? Geelong's culinary scene is hot, boasting restaurants by big-name chefs and a wine scene that's bouncing back beautifully. The waterfront is a chill mix of cafes and botanical gardens, perfect for relaxing year-round, and beaches are great for families and surfers alike. Venture beyond the city and you'll find more travel treasures – surf, seafood, and wineries galore, with Port Phillip Bay as the picturesque backdrop. Just an hour from Melbourne, Geelong offers a sunny slice of Victorian life that's a breeze to reach, making it a fantastic spot for couples and families alike.

Average Temperatures in November: 10.9C (51.6F) to 23.6C (74.5F)

Top experiences and things to do: Tour the region's wineries; explore the Cape to Cape coastal area; Amaze’n Maze; go whale watching; Eagles Heritage Wildlife Centre; visit Lake Cave; enjoy the many great restaurants

Getting there: 3 hour drive from Perth

et's talk about WA's Margaret River – not just the town, but the whole incredible region. It's been a popular escape for Perth locals, and November is a prime time to head down south. Imagine a mix of nature, wine country, and stunning coastline – rocky shores, mesmerizing caves, and top-notch dining experiences. The weather's delightful in November, and you'll be spared the pesky flies that usually show up in December. Perfect! Get ready for outdoor adventures galore, with extended daylight hours giving you ample time to explore. Margaret River offers a diverse landscape – lush vineyards, rugged coasts perfect for surfing, fishing, and whale watching (November's still whale season!). Plus, you've got Augusta, Busselton, and Dunsborough each with their unique charm, and friendly locals eager to help and share tips. Spring brings a burst of color to the scenery, with wildflowers adding even more beauty.

Now, let's talk about the epic Cape to Cape coastal track – a 100km stretch of jaw-dropping rock formations, pristine beaches, and iconic lighthouses from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin. Gourmet goodness is another star here. Margaret River started as a dairy producer and has blossomed into a foodie paradise with top-notch restaurants, cafes, breweries, and wineries. You'll find everything from burgers to fancy degustation menus, all of excellent quality thanks to the locals' pride in their culinary scene. And speaking of wine, oh boy – over 95 wineries call this region home, offering delightful wine trails and a fantastic array of wines like Shiraz, Chardonnay, and Cab Sav.

The beauty of Margaret River lies in how everything blends perfectly. Indulge in food and wine, then balance it out with outdoor exploration. Wander along the coastline, hop on the water for a close encounter with humpback whales, or simply create your own Margaret River experience. Flexibility reigns supreme in this diverse and captivating region.

Average Temperatures in November: 22.0C (71.6F) to 27.0C (80.6F)

Top experiences and things to do: Snorkel the island's natural lagoon; take a glass-bottom boat ride; dive the surrounding coral bommies; see the abundant bird life

Getting there: Boat transfers from Bundaberg or part of tour packages from Brisbane

When it comes to the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland's Lady Musgrave Island shines as a November gem. Nestled in the southern part of the reef, it's sting-free, perfect for aquatic exploration. As a budget-friendly pick, you can reach the island via boat from Bundaberg Marina with day cruises and on-island camping options. Its largest lagoon sets it apart, offering sheltered snorkeling and diving, featuring a mix of marine life and impressive coral, ideal for beginners at a depth of 6 to 8 meters. Even timid swimmers can enjoy the marine life with glass-bottom boat rides. Divers can explore 14 sites, including an easy drift dive to spot cod, wrasse, sharks, and even mantas. Lady Musgrave's underdeveloped charm boasts lush vegetation and flourishing birdlife, creating a perfect spot for a relaxed island stroll. Lastly, November visitors get the magical sight of green and loggerhead turtles laying eggs on the beaches – an incredible experience.