The best places in Australia to visit in June

June marks the official beginning of winter in Australia, and although in certain southerly locations it can get quite cold, Aussie winters are generally far more mild than many other non-tropical locations throughout the world. On the contrary, as far as travel goes, June is not particularly even that much of an “off season” - due to the size of the country there's still plenty of great places to visit regardless of if you're looking to escape from the frost or enjoy the cool climate.

Jenolan Caves in New South Wales, a unique natural treasure, is a 2.5 to 3-hour drive west of Sydney. Visiting in June means enjoying cool, crisp air that enhances the lush surroundings during the scenic drive from Katoomba. The walk to the caves offers great lookout points, and while it's chilly, it's manageable if you dress warmly. June is ideal for avoiding crowds as there are no school holidays, making it easier to get tickets for popular show caves. The Jenolan Caves, among the world's oldest and best-preserved cave networks, cater to all ages and fitness levels, offering various cave exploration options from easy strolls to more challenging climbs through impressive limestone formations.

Jenolan Caves offers a choice of 10 "show caves," with Lucas and Orient often considered the top picks. The Chifley cave is great for kids due to its shorter duration (about an hour). However, personal preference plays a significant role, as each cave has its unique charm. These caves feature limestone formations, underground rivers, and stunning lighting effects, showcasing nature's wonders. They are one of Australia's top natural attractions, thanks to impressive excavation efforts making them accessible. The drive from Sydney to Jenolan Caves is scenic but can be nerve-wracking on narrow, winding roads, especially after rain. Consider day tours for a stress-free journey and ensure you book tickets online early, as they often sell out by 1:30 pm. For a nature-based experience millions of years in the making and memorable photography opportunities, Jenolan Caves is an excellent choice.

If you don't mind the cold, June is an excellent time to visit Canberra, Australia's capital city. It's often underrated as a travel destination but boasts impressive art, history, and architecture. While it may not be the place for adrenaline-packed fun, Canberra offers a unique blend of urban cityscape and greenery. You can reach Canberra in about a 3-hour drive from Sydney, with reasonably priced airfares available in June as it's considered an "off-peak" month. What makes a winter visit great is that many attractions are either enhanced during this season or indoors, allowing you to enjoy them without weather constraints. Plus, shorter lines mean you can see more with less hassle and time. Canberra offers a variety of standout attractions. Cockington Green Gardens is a highlight, featuring charming flower arrangements and detailed miniatures of architectural styles from around the world, including a mini-Stonehenge. The well-maintained grounds, intricate models, and reasonable entry cost make it a must-visit in Canberra.

In Canberra, you'll find the National Art Gallery of Australia, showcasing both local and international art styles. Admission is generally free, except for certain international exhibits, so check the official website (http://nga.gov.au) for details. Canberra boasts iconic landmarks like New Parliament House, known for its impressive architecture. You can take hour-long tours of Parliament House, making it an easily accessible and surprisingly interesting visit. Old Parliament House has been converted into the Museum of Australian Democracy, offering a regal variation. The Australian War Memorial is another must-visit, serving as a museum, gallery, and historical archive, paying tribute to our military veterans.

The guides leading the free tours at the War Memorial are known for their passionate and enthusiastic approach, making it a must-visit for adults. However, younger kids may not have the same patience or appreciation, so you might want to consider alternatives like Questacon (the national Science Centre) where they can have a more hands-on and entertaining educational experience. One of the great things about Canberra is its manageable size. With an efficient public transport system and key attractions located reasonably close to each other, walking between them is a viable option even in the cold weather.

Kangaroo Island, one of Australia's Top 10 Destinations in 2014, lies about 112km southwest of Adelaide. Known for its rich wildlife and stunning landscapes, KI features rugged coastlines, towering cliffs, unique rock formations, and beautiful sandy beaches. As the third-largest island in Australia, there's much to explore here. Visiting Kangaroo Island in June has several advantages. Firstly, it's more budget-friendly as it's considered an off-peak month, helping to offset transportation and accommodation costs. Given the island's size, it's advisable to stay at least one or two nights to fully explore its highlights, providing 2 or 3 days to experience its beauty.

Kangaroo Island is a wildlife haven, especially in June when newborn kangaroos, koalas, and wallabies emerge. Highlights like Flinders Chase National Park and Seal Bay Conservation Park offer a rich itinerary. The island exudes tranquility, amplified by fewer visitors in June. Winter temperatures range from 8ºC (46ºF) to 15ºC (59ºF), so bring warm clothing, like a fleece-lined jacket. With 509 kilometers of coastline, driving is the primary mode of transport on Kangaroo Island. Bringing your car on the ferry is advisable, but only certain rentals are allowed. Explore hidden wildlife havens and secluded beaches at your leisure. Kangaroo Island also offers a surprising food and wine culture with fresh produce. Enjoy wine tasting at Cape Willoughby, fresh oysters in Penneshaw, and exquisite cheeses in MacGillivray. Kangaroo Island combines escapism, stunning landscapes, friendly people, and culinary delights. Don't overlook this gem in June; it's not only cost-effective but also allows you to savor its beauty with fewer fellow travelers.

June is the ideal time to visit Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory, offering a must-do experience without the cold down south or the crowded beaches up north. During winter, humidity levels are low, making the air more comfortable than the stifling moisture of the warmer months. The temperatures are pleasant, with a maximum of around 29 degrees Celsius, and the waterfalls, fed by the remaining wet season waters, are at their spectacular best. Unlike later in winter when the dry season diminishes the waterfalls, June ensures you see these natural wonders at their peak. Scenic roads that were closed during the wet season are likely open, allowing access to the park's renowned sites without the challenges of the rainy season. Don't miss this opportunity to explore Australia's heartland in June.

Kakadu is an awe-inspiring destination with diverse landscapes and remarkable biodiversity. It's home to iconic natural landmarks, covering an area roughly the size of Slovenia. From the grand Jim Jim and Twin Falls to the ancient Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr and refreshing swimming spots like Maguk, Kakadu offers an abundance of natural wonders. Exploring Kakadu's best spots often requires hiking, and to experience its essentials fully, plan for about a week of exploration. Kakadu experiences distinct seasons, with June offering accessibility and comfort. However, the park transforms between the wet and dry seasons, making them almost like two entirely different destinations. To truly appreciate Kakadu, consider visiting during both seasons.

For an enriching Kakadu experience, you have various options for both getting there and exploring the park. Tours are a great choice, led by experienced and knowledgeable guides who know the best viewpoints and must-see locations. Most tours from Darwin include transportation, guided tours, accommodation transfers, meals, and entry fees, making it a convenient choice. Alternatively, you can drive yourself, but a 4WD vehicle is often necessary for challenging dirt roads leading to stunning waterfalls in Kakadu. The drive from Darwin to the park's entrance takes about 3 hours, and additional time is needed to reach the park's interior highlights. Kakadu National Park undeniably deserves its place on your Australian sightseeing "bucket list."