10 Off the Grid Australian Destinations to Visit in 2023

From secluded islands to country escapes.

Who doesn’t love a good domestic holiday? Less hassle than overseas trips and more sustainable too, travelling within Australia is the best way to get a better understanding of the beauty of this country.

And what better time than the present? We’ve put together a list of some of the best and less thought-of places to visit around the country in 2023 that are sure to delight all types of travellers whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation.

From secluded islands to charming country escapes, where will you be going next?

1. Lord Howe Island, New South Wales

The World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island is one of the most luxurious destinations in the country, and it’s about time you add it to your holiday wishlist. Roughly two hours from Sydney by plane, this tropical island destination will offer you the chance to get back in touch with nature in an eco-friendly lodge and stunning beaches and parkland surroundings. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure lover, or simply want some relaxation time, this picturesque location is a must-visit in 2023.

2. Bilpin, New South Wales

The Blue Mountains are always a popular destination, but in 2023 why not choose to stay away from beloved towns including Katoomba and Leura, and make your way to the other side of the range? Bilpin, on the Bells Line of Road in the Blue Mountains, is known for its fantastic produce – think apples for Bilpin apple cider – and breathtaking scenery. For foodies and anyone wanting a more chilled out, off-the-grid Blue Mountains vacation, make a beeline to Bilpin.

3. Coonabarabran, New South Wales

For something a little different, head inland to the western heart of New South Wales where the town of Coonabarabran is located. It’s the place for stargazers and anyone looking to go totally off the grid and spend some time in a National Park with an incredible outlook of the night sky. A great spot for the night owls in 2023.

4. Fleurieu Peninsula, South Australia

This stunning Fleurieu Peninsula has something for all types of travellers. In February, the region will host a film festival at venues throughout the rugged, coastal countryside, and then later in the year is the perfect time to visit to experience the many vineyards and stunning beaches. Only a short hour-long drive from Adelaide, there’s no better mini-break destination for those already living in the South Australian capital.

5. Lake Eyre, South Australia

If you’ve never seen one of South Australia’s famous pink salt lakes before, make 2023 the year you tick this off your bucket list. There are several to visit across the state but Lake Eyre is perhaps the most stunning, with pastel pink and ochre orange salt plains crisscrossing the area. At around six hours by car from Adelaide, this is a more ambitious getaway, but the experience of seeing a salt lake in person is well worth the trip.

6. Exmouth, Western Australia

If you want to really experience the beauty of what this country has to offer in 2023, you have to make your way to Exmouth. The town in the centre of Western Australia is the entry point for Ningaloo Reef, a UNESCO Heritage listed natural site bursting with coral reefs and aquatic life. A visit here is sure to be one of the most memorable of your lifetime, and a holiday that you will never forget.

7. Lancelin, Western Australia

Most people looking for a weekend getaway from Perth head south to Margaret River, but here’s our advice for 2023 – go north. Just a few hours out of the city and you’ll find Lancelin, a small fishing town famous for its pristine white sand dune beaches, and an under-the-radar and off-the-grid spot for a holiday you won’t regret. The area is known for its fantastic seafood, including delicious local lobster in nearby Cervantes, and it’s a great spot for trying windsurfing or sand dune skating.

8. Clunes, Victoria

Bookworms will want to add Clunes, a small town just north of Ballarat, to their travel wishlist this year. Because Clunes is just one of only a handful of regions that is an official International Book Town, on account of its plentiful local bookshops and its annual Booktown festival in May. That’s a great time to plan a visit, while the area celebrates its title with author events and readings at one of its beautiful boutiques.

9. Mission Beach, Queensland

Think beyond the popular Noosa or the Gold Coast or Cairns, if you’re looking for a beach holiday in 2023 in Queensland, make your way to Mission Beach. Located a little bit off-the-grid, some two hours south of Cairns, Mission Beach is a breathtaking blend of lush rainforest greenery and stunning beaches. Everything you love about far north Queensland is here, just without all the tourists that flock to Cairns. There’s fantastic local fruit, pristine beaches, and snorkelling galore.

10. The Tiwi Islands, Northern Territory

Comprising two main islands – Bathurst and Melville – and just a short ferry from Darwin, the Tiwi Islands should be top of your travel list this year. The region has a deep and rich Indigenous cultural heritage and offers an opportunity for visitors to learn more about this country’s identity. There is beautiful art to take in, beautiful beaches, and seafood to enjoy.

From secluded islands to country escapes.