Exploring Australia: A Journey Through Brisbane, Cairns, Adelaide and Kangaroo Island
15/07/2026
Kathryn Bell, Explorer Travel
Having travelled to Australia multiple times, I’ve been lucky enough to really get to know some of its key destinations, particularly Brisbane and Cairns. On this latest trip, I visited Adelaide and Kangaroo Island, and they gave me a completely new perspective on what Australia has to offer. What I experienced was a destination full of contrasts, where vibrant cities, tropical coastlines, wildlife encounters, and world-class wine regions all come together seamlessly.
Australia is vast, but that’s what makes it so special. Each region feels completely different, and when combined into one trip, it creates an unforgettable experience.
Brisbane: A city that balances lifestyle and accessibility
Brisbane has always stood out to me as a brilliant city to visit. It’s easy to navigate, with great transport links by both boat and rail, which makes exploring very convenient.
One of my favourite areas was the South Bank. It’s such a lively and welcoming part of the city, and the man-made beach is a real highlight. Being able to relax by the water in the middle of a city is quite unique!
What really makes South Bank special though, is the variety of restaurants. There’s a huge amount of choice, with cuisines to suit every taste, and the atmosphere is always vibrant, especially in the evenings.
Brisbane offers a relaxed pace but still has plenty to keep you entertained, making it a perfect starting point for an Australian itinerary.
Cairns: Tropical heat and outdoor adventure
Moving north to Cairns, the shift in atmosphere is immediate. Cairns is all about tropical living, outdoor experiences, and embracing the natural environment.
Even in the Australian winter, temperatures are between 27 and 30 degrees, which gives it that year-round beach destination feel. It’s ideal for anyone looking to escape colder climates.
Cairns is the gateway to some of Australia’s most famous natural attractions. Water sports are a huge part of life here, and there are endless opportunities to get out on the water. Combined with the surrounding rainforest and wildlife, Cairns really offers that classic Australian adventure experience.
Adelaide: A completely different side of Australia
Adelaide was a new addition to my travels, and it completely surprised me. It has a very different feel when compared to Brisbane and Cairns, with a more relaxed, refined atmosphere.
What I loved most about Adelaide is how it offers both city life and beach life within easy reach of each other. It’s the best of both worlds.
The cooler winter temperatures, around 10 to 15 degrees, are a noticeable change from the tropical north, but they add to the diversity of the experience. It felt like I was exploring a different side of the country.
Adelaide is also perfectly positioned for exploring some of Australia’s most famous wine regions, making it a fantastic destination for food and wine lovers.
Kangaroo Island: Australia’s natural beauty at its best
The visit to Kangaroo Island was an absolute highlight of the trip and something I would say is a must for anyone visiting South Australia.
The scenery here is nothing short of spectacular. One moment you’re surrounded by rolling sand dunes, the next you’re enjoying a wine tasting, and then you’re spotting wildlife or relaxing by the beach.
Kangaroo Island offers a bit of everything, and that’s what makes it so memorable. It feels untouched and authentic, with landscapes that truly showcase the natural beauty of Australia.
Food and dining: Quality and value
Food throughout the trip was consistently excellent. One thing that stood out was the portion sizes, which are generous, as well as great value for money.
I also took the opportunity to try something different, including kangaroo and emu dishes. It’s always worth embracing local cuisine, and these were great experiences that added something unique to the trip.
Where I stayed
Accommodation played a big part in making this journey so enjoyable. The Grand Chancellor in Brisbane and the Oval Hotel in Adelaide were both superb choices.
The quality of both hotels was excellent, with comfortable rooms, fantastic locations, and great restaurants and bars onsite. Everything felt clean, well maintained, and designed with guest comfort in mind, which made returning after a busy day of exploring even more enjoyable.
Planning your Australian itinerary
One of the most important things to consider when travelling through Australia is how varied the climate is between regions.
Travelling between North Queensland and Adelaide means experiencing a significant difference in temperatures, especially during winter. Packing for all seasons is essential if you want to make the most of each destination.
To truly experience what Australia has to offer, there are a few key experiences I would strongly recommend including in your plans.
The Great Barrier Reef is a must, offering some of the most incredible marine life and underwater scenery in the world.
The Daintree Rainforest is another essential, perfect for those wanting to explore ancient landscapes and unique ecosystems.
And of course, Kangaroo Island should not be missed, with its stunning scenery, wildlife, and variety of experiences.
Final thoughts
Australia continues to be one of my favourite destinations, and this trip only reinforced why. The diversity across Brisbane, Cairns, Adelaide, and Kangaroo Island creates a journey that feels rich, varied, and incredibly rewarding.
From tropical beaches to city dining, from wildlife encounters to wine tasting, there’s something here for every type of traveller.
If you’re planning a trip to Australia, I would highly recommend combining these regions. It gives you a much deeper understanding of the country and ensures you experience the very best it has to offer.
For me, it’s a destination I keep returning to, and each time I discover something new.