Inspiration

Whale Whispers and Sunlit Shores.

5 best places to visit in Australia & New Zealand this August.

August is a month of captivating contrasts in Australia, where the winter chill brings landscapes to life and invites thoughtful travelers to explore. From the majestic coastal views along the Great Ocean Road to the wine-laden charm of Margaret River, the destinations promise both adventure and serenity. Art enthusiasts will revel in Melbourne's vibrant culture, and the whispering wilderness of the Snowy Mountains awaits those seeking snowy marvels. Pack your sense of wonder and be ready to swap your way to unforgettable experiences this August.

By

Swapsy

31 Jul 2025

Great Ocean Road, VIC, Australia

Whale Songs and Coastal Wonders.

August along the Great Ocean Road is a breathtaking canvas of natural drama. The cooler weather keeps the crowds at bay, leaving the sweeping coastal views all to you. This is also peak whale-watching season, as majestic humpback and southern right whales migrate along the coast. A home swap here offers you the chance to rise with the sun and step right into nature's theater. Enjoy tranquil walks along muffled beaches, and perhaps venture into the lush Otway Rainforest to revive the senses. This stretch of coast is not just for sights—it's a place where serenity whispers through the air.

Local Experiences.

Regenerative

Wildlife Wonders

Great Ocean Road

Nestled along the iconic Great Ocean Road, Wildlife Wonders offers an unforgettable experience where conservation meets appreciation. Guided by local experts, you'll walk through pristine bushlands and encounter native wildlife thriving in their natural habitat. This eco-friendly adventure supports conservation efforts, making it more than just a tour but a positive contribution to the environment.

Walk

The Great Ocean Walk

Great Ocean Road

Stretching over 100 kilometers along Victoria's stunning coastline, The Great Ocean Walk is a nature lover's dream. August offers the perfect climate for this soulful journey, where each step reveals dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and dense forests. Engage with the land in a mindful way, and perhaps you'll meet fellow trekkers sharing stories and laughter along the path.

Outdoors & Nature

Apollo Bay Foreshore Reserve

Apollo Bay

A jewel of Apollo Bay, the Foreshore Reserve is where locals and travelers converge to embrace the simple joys of seaside life. With grass underfoot and an ocean breeze on your face, it’s a spot for enjoying picnics, playful visits to the beach, or simply watching the sun set with a gentle wave of the sea for company. It's a serene escape engaging your senses with nature's artistry.

Listings.

Great Ocean Road, Pool, Spa & Sauna Retreat

Beautiful Bridgetown WA

Melbourne heritage home

Comfortable studio

Light-filled North Byron loft

House with a pool, close to the surf

Margaret River, WA, Australia

Winter Wine and Wild Coastlines.

In August, Margaret River extends its winter embrace to those in search of quietude and culinary delight. The region, renowned for its premium wines, offers intimate tastings at cozy cellar doors, often accompanied by the warming glow of a fireplace. The surrounding landscapes are invigorated by winter rains, making them lush and inviting for gentle hikes. Home swap your way into a cozy home base and explore the rugged coastline, dramatic with windswept beauty, perfect for a contemplative beach walk.

Local Experiences.

Food & Dining

Leeuwin Estate

Margaret River

Nestled in the lush greens of Margaret River, Leeuwin Estate offers more than just a winery visit. Their August events include the Art Series Wine Tasting for a sensory journey that celebrates fine wine and contemporary art, offering a unique blend for both the palate and the eyes.

Regenerative

Ngilgi Cave Ancient Lands Experience

Yallingup

Immerse yourself in the ancient world at Ngilgi Cave, where the Indigenous cultural experience brings the land's stories to life. Guided by local Wardandi Custodians, this tour lets you explore stunning galleries and learn about the cultural significance of these lands in a deeply respectful and meaningful way.

Outdoors & Nature

Wooditjup National Park

Margaret River

Step into Margaret River's natural haven at Wooditjup National Park. This serene park invites explorers and nature lovers to wander through ancient forests and spot native wildlife thriving amidst August's lush flora. It's perfect for a reflective walk or a peaceful afternoon braai with panoramic surrounds.

Listings.

Great Ocean Road, Pool, Spa & Sauna Retreat

Beautiful Bridgetown WA

Melbourne heritage home

Comfortable studio

Light-filled North Byron loft

House with a pool, close to the surf

Melbourne, VIC, Australia

Art and Urban Warmth.

Melbourne embraces the crisp August air with a vibrant palette of cultural experiences. Known for its dynamic art scene, this city invites you to dive into the Melbourne Art Trams exhibition as part of the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces series. The brisk air calls for a cozy home swap in the city’s quirky neighborhoods, ideal for neighborhood walks to discover hidden cafes and street art. As the city comes alive with winter festivities, from food stalls to night markets, warmth and community spirit spill into the streets.

Local Experiences.

Shopping

National Gallery of Victoria

Southbank

Step into the enchanting world of art at the National Gallery of Victoria, where every corner whispers the stories of human creativity through ages. August is a vibrant month with special exhibitions blooming like the city’s winter flora, inviting art enthusiasts to lose themselves in a kaleidoscope of color and form.

Regenerative

Queen Victoria Market

Melbourne

Experience Melbourne’s culinary heart at the Queen Victoria Market, where local flavors collide in a delightful tapestry. August brings a buzz, as seasonal produce and artisanal goods create a marketplace humming with life, offering sustainability-minded travelers a taste of community and fresh, local delights.

Outdoors & Nature

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens

South Yarra

The Royal Botanic Gardens are an oasis of tranquility in the city’s heart, where you can wander amidst lush greenery and seasonal blossoms. August is a wonderful time to explore these gardens, as the winter foliage begins its gentle transition into spring, providing a serene spot for reflection and nature appreciation.

Listings.

Great Ocean Road, Pool, Spa & Sauna Retreat

Beautiful Bridgetown WA

Melbourne heritage home

Comfortable studio

Light-filled North Byron loft

House with a pool, close to the surf

Byron Bay Region, NSW, Australia

Winter Beaches and Creative Energy.

Byron Bay during August offers a blend of creative energy and serene coastal escapes. With cooler weather, the beaches are a peaceful retreat, perfect for those who enjoy quiet walks by the sea. Home swap to find tranquility away from the summer rush, and immerse yourself in local festivals such as the Byron Writers Festival, where thought-provoking talks animate the community. Whether you are exploring the hinterland or savoring organic fare in eadie cafes, Byron Bay encourages a slower, more reflective approach to travel.

Local Experiences.

Regenerative

Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens

Mullumbimby

Discover a serene escape in Mullumbimby at the Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens, where peaceful meditation spots and the sound of water features set the scene. Wandering through the tranquil Shambhala Gardens feels like stepping into another world, abundant with vibrant flora and stunning crystals, offering a rejuvenating experience that's perfect for August relaxation.

Food & Dining

The Farm Byron Bay

Ewingsdale

Nestled in Ewingsdale, The Farm Byron Bay invites you to explore a working farm that's committed to sustainable practices. As you meander along the paths, you'll encounter lush fields and are welcome to sample farm-fresh produce in their rustic café. It’s more than a meal; it's a celebration of local, organic food that connects you to the land and the community.

Outdoors & Nature

Arakwal National Park

Byron Bay

Embrace the great outdoors at Arakwal National Park in Byron Bay. This coastal retreat offers stunning beachside walks with pristine views over Tallow Beach. In August, the park comes alive with migrating whales along the coast, providing awe-inspiring natural spectacles. It's a must-visit for anyone seeking solace in nature’s embrace.

Listings.

Great Ocean Road, Pool, Spa & Sauna Retreat

Beautiful Bridgetown WA

Melbourne heritage home

Comfortable studio

Light-filled North Byron loft

House with a pool, close to the surf

Snowy Mountains, NSW, Australia

Peaks and Snowy Bliss.

In August, the Snowy Mountains beckon adventure seekers and nature lovers to experience the wintery magic of this alpine region. Expect fresh snowfalls turning the landscape into a winter wonderland perfect for skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing expeditions. A home swap here lets you savor the warmth of a mountainside retreat after a day on the slopes. Beyond the thrills, unwind with a cozy fireside meal in charming mountain towns like Thredbo and Jindabyne, where local stories and hearty dishes warm the soul.

Local Experiences.

Outdoors & Nature

Kosciuszko National Park

In August, the Snowy Mountains transform into a winter wonderland, and Kosciuszko National Park is at its heart. Embark on breathtaking snowshoe adventures, meticulously guided to explore the pristine landscapes and connect with nature. The park’s untouched white expanse offers a serene backdrop for contemplation and appreciation of the environment’s fragility.

Private Tours

Thredbo

Thredbo isn’t just a ski resort; it’s a thriving community and a celebration of alpine culture. With guided tours that immerse you into its vibrant local life, you can discover a series of eco-friendly practices adapted by this small town. Whether it's hitting the slopes sustainably or exploring the local indigenous culture, Thredbo offers enriching experiences.

Walk

Charlotte Pass lookout

August views from the Charlotte Pass lookout are nothing short of spectacular. Enveloped in the aura of snow-covered peaks, a gentle walk leads you to vistas that stretch to the very top of Mount Kosciuszko. Standing at this vantage point, the world feels wide open, a reminder of the grandeur of untouched wilderness.

Listings.

Great Ocean Road, Pool, Spa & Sauna Retreat

Beautiful Bridgetown WA

Melbourne heritage home

Comfortable studio

Light-filled North Byron loft

House with a pool, close to the surf

Travel lighter with Swapsy.

Home swapping is a better way to travel. Not only does it take away the need to pay for travel accommodation, it opens the door to more meaningful, community driven travel experiences. In beautiful pockets of the world that hotels will never reach.

It is better for the environment compared to hotels - less energy consumed, less waste produced, less money given to big corporations.

There is also less "tourist overload" on smaller communities, as home swapping with locals simply moves them to your area while you visit theirs.

Best of all, some of the money you save from home swapping can be redirected into the communities you visit, supporting local business as well as environmental initiatives.

For a limited time, you can test drive home swapping with Swapsy, for free. To get started and experience a better way to travel, click here.

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