Best Australian destinations for solo travellers

Travelling solo can be a daunting prospect, so we asked global travellers for their tips on the friendliest destinations in Australia.*

Darwin, Northern Territory

However dubious the 1960s government film campaign that dubbed Darwin the ‘Friendly City’ might be, it’s actually a very apt description of Australia’s only tropical state capital. The waterfront area is a spot where tourists and locals gather, with its many restaurants, green spaces and swimming area – plus, the sunsets from here are truly sublime. If you’re after a solo trip that involves a bit of reflection amid glorious nature, head to the nearby Kakadu National Park, where you’ll find savanna woodlands, mangroves, mesmerising waterfalls, monsoon forests and burnt-orange rock escarpments. Cool off after a day’s expedition into nature with a swim in the outdoor pool at the centrally-located Argus Hotel Darwin.

Wagga Wagga, New South Wales

Filled with greenery and cut through by the eucalyptus-lined Murrumbidgee River, Wagga Wagga is a city in the Riverina, a region of New South Wales known for its spacious, fertile plains and vineyards. It’s also renowned for its laid-back, friendly atmosphere, with homely cafés that serve great coffee and locally-sourced, seasonal dishes. Burn off a hearty brunch by following the Wiradjuri Walking Track along the river to Wagga Beach. And treat your solo self to a stay at The Houston Wagga, where you can spend lazy evenings in the garden reading in a wicker chair under fairy-lit trees.

Byron Bay, New South Wales

The beloved beach town of Byron Bay is known for its low-key, new age feel, with locals and tourists alike wandering around barefoot most of the time. It’s also filled with backpackers’ hostels that host nightly events encouraging guests to socialise; from quizzes and barbecues to parties and club nights. During the day, head to the town’s golden beaches for sunbathing and surfing (there’s a wide choice of surf schools and lessons) or walking along the beautiful coastline. While in town, you can explore the myriad alternative boutiques championing an honest and natural lifestyle. Enjoy access to free activities, including yoga, personal training, sunrise lighthouse tours and more at Wake Up! Byron Bay.

Margaret River Town, Western Australia

Arrive in Margaret River to discover farmers’ markets, craft breweries and wineries, ideal for mingling with friendly locals and tourists alike. This welcoming town is surrounded by near-deserted, white sandy beaches (snorkel and swim in the perfectly still, azure lagoon at Yallingup Beach or catch some waves at Surfers Point) and limestone cave-strewn coastal landscapes; walking the Cape to Cape Track you’ll get to take in some of the area’s glorious natural wonders. It’s also a town known for its gourmet cuisine, so treat yourself to a meal of fresh local seafood and a crisp, regional rose. Relax with a spa bath in a chalet bordered by eucalyptus trees at the rural Bushy Lake Chalets.

Hervey Bay, Queensland

For a relaxing beach holiday with friendly people, head to the coastal Queensland town of Hervey Bay. The whale-watching capital of Australia from July to November, it’s surrounded by calm, turquoise waters and powder-soft sandy beaches. As a slow-paced destination that’s geared towards tourism, there are plenty of activities available to mingle with other travellers or locals; take a paddle boarding lesson on the beach followed by a golden sunset stroll along Urangan Pier. Check into Aussie Woolshed Backpackers, the most highly rated hostel in Hervey Bay.

** These destinations were the most highly rated in Australia for ‘friendly locals’ by Booking.com customers.