Surfing at Bondi Beach and the Iceberg Club 

Sydney’s Bondi Beach is an Australian landmark. Surrounded by cliffs, cafes, and smoothie bars, the country’s most popular beach is also one of the best places for first-timers and experienced surfers alike to catch some waves. But if the open water isn’t your thing, just off the beach you’ll find the Bondi Iceberg Club Baths, home to Sydney’s most Instagrammed pool. Around for more than a century, the outdoor, Olympic-size saltwater lap pool is open to the public year-round. From here, you’ll have the best view of the iconic shoreline, coupled with frequent doses of sea spray. 

Pearling in Broome 

The isolated northwest coast of Australia is the historical center of the pearling industry. In the late 1800s the world’s largest and rarest pearl oyster species, Pinctada maxima, was discovered in the tropical waters around Broome. Originally harvested for its nacre-coated shell, the pearl-producing mollusk was used to make mother-of-pearl buttons and fine cutlery. As the value of Australian South Sea pearls was recognized, the modern pearling industry in Australia was born. 

About three hours north of Broome, at the top of the Dampier Peninsula and where the outback meets the sea, Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm provides a hands-on experience for guests who make the journey to the isolated coast. It was here that founder Dean Brown and his son first mastered the technique of harvesting pearls from wild oysters in the 1960s. Since then, Cygnet Bay has been at the forefront of pearl cultivation. In 2009, the Browns opened their doors to visitors for an inside look at a working pearl farm and the effort that goes into producing some of the world’s most exquisite pearls. 

Heli-fishing for Barramundi in the Kimberley Region

Barramundi is the “it” fish in Australia right now for chefs and sport fisherman alike. They’re prolific across the Northern Territory and Western Australia’s Kimberley coastline. Known locally as barra, they have a reputation as fighters with strong runs and high leaps, which makes them thrilling to catch. Take the excitement to the next level via heli-fishing. Soak up the stunning scenery from above as you fly to otherwise inaccessible locations, touching down to cast a line in some of Australia’s most pristine wilderness. 

Swimming with Humpback Whales and Whale Sharks 

The Ningaloo Reef on West Australia’s mid-to-northern coast is a true ocean paradise with a kaleidoscope of marine life. It’s one of the most biologically diverse marine environments left on the planet, with more than 250 species of coral and 500 species of fish. The fringing reef here is one of the longest in the world, running close to the shoreline (unlike the Great Barrier Reef, which is located off the coast). In some locations, such as the Sal Salis safari camp, it’s mere footsteps from the beach. 

But the marine park is most famous for the gentle giants who pass through its crystal blue waters. From approximately March through August, it’s possible to swim with the massive and harm- less whale sharks. Another highlight is swimming with humpback whales. Between June and November, around 30,000 humpback whales migrate along the Ningaloo Coast, breeching, lunging and slapping the water as they go.

Pro Tip: The sun in Australia is severe. When choosing a sunscreen, opt for an ocean-friendly sunscreen like Stream2Sea. The biodegradable and organic mineral-based formula won’t harm marine life or the coral reefs when it washes off. – Catherine Brown, Designer

In for the Long Haul 

Take advantage of your time in the skies with our suggestions to pass the time. 

Disclaimer: Some of the links below are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, Ker & Downey earns a small commission when you click through and make a purchase. 

Watch | Chasing Coral 

It is estimated that 90% of the world’s coral will be lost by 2050. In this documentary, a team of divers, photographers and scientists set out to discover why coral reefs around the world are vanishing at an unprecedented rate. Streaming on Netflix.com. 

Read | The Happy Isles of Oceania: Paddling the Pacific by Paul Theroux 

This book captures a healing journey for author and intrepid traveler Paul Theroux, who paddled through the South Pacific to 51 islands in a one-man collapsible kayak. Amazon.com | $21 

Listen | Horizon Line 

This podcast from Atlas Obscura tells four stories of daring adventurers of the past. podcasts.apple.com