East coast or rather to the west? That’s probably the first question you ask yourself before a trip to Australia. Two short comments in advance: no matter which coast you choose, you won’t be disappointed. Besides, you don’t always have to decide, because once you’ve been there, you’ll come back – for sure!
First things first
Before you set off for Australia, there are a few things you should think about. You need to think about what you want to experience during your stay in Australia. Do you want to explore the big cities, meet lots of new people and maybe go out for a night? Or do you prefer nature, silence and lots of wildlife? You should also be aware that Australia is huge and you should take enough time to explore the places.
East coast
The east coast is associated with a lot of tourism, bustle and big cities. Starting at the bottom, it runs from Melbourne via Canberra, the capital of Australia, to Sydney, then on via Brisbane up to Cairns. Well-known stopovers are the Gold and Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay and also Bondi Beach. Australia’s east coast is diverse and densely populated. Beautiful beaches contrast with vibrant cities. Large hotels, restaurants, shopping malls and small cafés and bars are everywhere. Sydney itself, with the Harbour Bridge, the world-famous opera house and the many entertainment options, is definitely a place to visit when exploring the east coast.
However, it’s not just big cities and tourism that add to the East Coast’s charm, as the countryside is stunning as well. Our three favourite national parks in the east are Springbook and Lamington National Park and Atherton Tablelands. Fauna and flora are breathtaking, the waterfalls are like paradise and if you’re really lucky, you might spot a small wallaby or other Australian residents.
Not forgetting, of course, the Great Barrier Reef. This 2,300-kilometre-long ecosystem is home to over 600 different hard and soft corals, countless species of fish, turtles, sharks and also dolphins.
West coast
The only metropolis in Western Australia and also the state’s capital is Perth. If you go further north, the difference between the east and west coast couldn’t be greater. What you encounter in this region is nature, silence and endless expanses. You might drive around for hours and not meet another soul.
It is definitely less touristy compared to the east coast. The west is less populated and you have to drive a long way for restaurants, clubs or bars. On the other hand, Australia’s wildlife takes centre stage here.
In contrast to the east coast, you’ ll find the “Great Barrier Reef of the West”, better known as the Ningaloo Reef. This coral reef really does look like the Great Barrier Reef. Again, you will find many different colourful fish species, red, green and yellow corals, reef sharks and sea turtles. We booked a humpback whale tour and saw the giants of the sea for the first time.
Instead of big cities, you will find idyllic beaches in the west. You can expect kilometres of white sandy beaches – most of them are even completely lonely. You shouldn’t go into the water everywhere, yet the view alone and the peace and quiet on the beach will make you forget all your worries.
Beautiful national parks such as the Kalbarri, the Karijini or the Cape Range National Park add to this nature paradise. In addition, there are small natural wonders in the west, such as the Pinnacles or the Nature Window. Another attraction is Monkey Mia, a place famous for its wild dolphins, which come to the beach several times in the morning.
Conclusion
You love action, big cities and getting in touch with other people? Do you like to go clubbing one night, but spend the rest of the day on the beach? You will definitely find a mix of tourism and nature on the east coast! However, if you’d rather experience the endless expanses of Australia, explore the wildlife and spend a day on a beautiful, secluded sandy beach – then the West Coast is for you. If you enjoy a barbecue out in nature instead of a restaurant, then head to the west coast of Australia!
One thing to remember, though: no matter which coast you choose, you’ll be back. You will come back and explore Australia again. Thus, you only have to make one temporary decision.
