For many people, Australia is the ultimate bucket list destination. And with good reason! The Land Down Under is home to some of the most unique and beautiful landscapes in the world. From the stunning Great Barrier Reef to the eerie Outback, there's so much to explore in this vast country. And because Australia is such a diverse place, there's something for everyone.

But with so much to see and do, it's easy to feel overwhelmed when planning a trip to Australia. Many visitors only have a limited amount of time to explore, so it's important to make the most of it. So, what are the must-see attractions and experiences that visitors need to include in their itinerary? Here are 10 of them.

Related: Top 8 Must-Do Experiences On Fraser Island, Australia

10 Get Up Close To Wild Dolphins In Monkey Mia

Monkey Mia is a small town located on the shores of Shark Bay in Western Australia. It's best known for its resident pod of wild dolphins, which have been coming to the shores to interact with humans for decades. Visitors can swim with these friendly creatures in their natural habitat, an experience that is truly unforgettable. You can also feed the dolphins from the beach, which is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get up close and personal with these amazing animals.

  • Hours: The dolphin feeding experience starts at 7:45 am
  • Cost: $15 per adult

9 Learn To Surf In Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a mecca for surfers from all over the world. The town is located in New South Wales and is known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful beaches. There are many amazing things to do around Byron Bay, especially for those who have time. For instance, visitors can learn to surf at one of the many surf schools or simply enjoy watching the experts ride the waves. For an adrenaline-pumping experience, try stand-up paddleboarding or take a ride on the waves in a cage.

  • Hours: Surf schools are open daily from early morning until late afternoon.
  • Cost: The cost of lessons varies depending on the school, but expect to pay around $65 per person for a two-hour group lesson.

8 Hold A Koala At Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Located just outside of Brisbane in Queensland, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is home to more than 130 koalas, as well as other Australian wildlife such as kangaroos, wallabies, and echidnas. Visitors can hold a koala, pat a kangaroo, and even feed the lorikeets. There are also several shows throughout the day, including an impressive bird of prey show.

  • Hours: The sanctuary is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
  • Cost: Admission starts at $49 for adults
  • Note: Visitors must pre-book their koala hold experience in advance.

7 See The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is, without a doubt, one of the best tourist destinations in Australia today. It's one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World. Stretching for over 2,000 kilometers along the coast of Queensland, this living coral reef is home to an incredible diversity of marine life. Visitors can snorkel or scuba dive to get up close and personal with the colorful fish and coral or take a glass-bottomed boat tour to see the reef without getting wet.

  • Hours: The Great Barrier Reef is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
  • Cost: There is a range of tours and experiences available, so prices vary. Expect to pay around $115-$189 for a tour.

6 Go Sandboarding In Port Stephens

Port Stephens is a beautiful coastal town located in New South Wales, just a two-hour drive from Sydney. The town is surrounded by huge sand dunes, which make it the perfect place to try sandboarding – a sport similar to snowboarding, but on sand instead of snow. There are several operators offering sandboarding tours and lessons, so visitors of all ages and abilities can give it a go.

  • Hours: Sandboarding tours operate daily, typically from early morning until late afternoon.
  • Cost: The cost of a sandboarding tour starts at around $35.

5 Visit Uluru

Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is one of Australia's most recognizable landmarks. This huge sandstone rock formation is located in the Northern Territory and is more than 348 meters high. Visitors can walk around the base of Uluru or climb to the top if they feel fit and adventurous. For a unique experience, try to time your visit to Uluru so that you witness the amazing sunset or sunrise.

  • Hours: Varies depending on the month, with the earliest opening times being 5 am and the latest closing time at 9 pm.
  • Cost: Admission to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park starts at $38 per adult for three days.

4 Wine Tasting In The Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is one of Australia's premier wine regions and is located just a 90-minute drive from Melbourne. The valley is home to more than 160 wineries, as well as picturesque villages and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, tours of the vineyards, and gourmet food. There are also several walking and cycling trails to explore.

  • Hours: Most wineries in the Yarra Valley are open daily from 10 am to 5 pm.
  • Cost: Wine tastings vary depending on the winery, but they typically start at around $5 per person.

Related: 8 Best Wineries In Australia's Hunter Valley Wine Country

3 Take A Road Trip Along The Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of the most scenic drives in Australia. This 243-kilometer road winds its way along the coast of Victoria, from Torquay to Allansford. Along the route, visitors can stop to see the Twelve Apostles, take a walk through the rainforest, and spot some local wildlife. There are also several towns and villages to explore, each with its own unique character.

  • Hours: The Great Ocean Road is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
  • Cost: There is no cost to drive along the Great Ocean Road. However, there may be fees for some attractions and activities along the way.

2 Go Skiing Or Snowboarding In New South Wales

Many people are surprised to learn that Australia is home to several ski fields. The Snowy Mountains, located in the state of New South Wales, receive regular snowfalls during the winter months and offer a great opportunity to try skiing or snowboarding. There are several resorts to choose from, each with its own beginner-friendly slopes.

  • Hours: The ski season in New South Wales typically runs from June to October. However, the exact dates can vary depending on the weather conditions.
  • Cost: Lift passes start at around $255 per person.

1 Walk Through The Valley Of The Winds In Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Located in the heart of Australia's Red Centre, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is home to two of the country's most iconic landmarks – Uluru and Kata Tjuta (also known as the Olgas). The park is also home to the Valley of the Winds, a stunning sandstone formation that has been carved out by millions of years of wind and rain. Visitors can take a self-guided tour through the Valley of the Winds or join a guided tour for a more in-depth experience.

  • Hours: Vary depending on the month, with the earliest opening times being 5 am and the latest closing time at 9 pm.
  • Cost: $38 per adult for a 3-day pass