Best Weekend Getaways from Australian Cities for Students

1. Weekend Getaways from Sydney

Blue Mountains – Nature & Adventure

Just 2 hours from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer stunning hikes, waterfalls, and breathtaking views. It’s perfect for a budget-friendly escape into nature.
✅ Explore the Three Sisters at Echo Point.
✅ Hike the Wentworth Falls Track for incredible scenery.
✅ Ride the world’s steepest railway at Scenic World (student discounts available).

💰 Budget tip: Take the train from Sydney instead of driving to save money.

Jervis Bay – White Sand Beaches & Dolphins

If you love the beach, Jervis Bay (3 hours south of Sydney) is a must-visit.
✅ Relax on Hyams Beach, known for having the whitest sand in the world.
✅ Go on a dolphin-watching cruise (student discounts available).
✅ Kayak or snorkel in Booderee National Park.

💰 Budget tip: Stay in a backpacker hostel or camp at Green Patch Campground.

2. Weekend Getaways from Melbourne

Great Ocean Road – Iconic Road Trip

One of Australia’s most famous road trips, 3 hours from Melbourne.
✅ Visit the Twelve Apostles and stunning coastal cliffs.
✅ Stop at Bells Beach, a top surfing spot.
✅ Walk through the Otways Rainforest and spot koalas.

💰 Budget tip: Rent a car with friends to split fuel costs.

Mornington Peninsula – Hot Springs & Vineyards

A relaxing getaway just 1.5 hours from Melbourne.
✅ Soak in the Peninsula Hot Springs (discounted student passes).
✅ Visit Sorrento Back Beach for rock pools and ocean views.
✅ Explore Red Hill’s vineyards for budget-friendly wine tastings.

💰 Budget tip: Pack your own lunch and visit free beaches to keep costs low.

3. Weekend Getaways from Brisbane

Gold Coast – Surf, Theme Parks & Nightlife

Just two hours from Brisbane with the train (1$ for a return trip), Gold Coast is perfect for a fun weekend.
✅ Surf or relax on Surfers Paradise Beach.
✅ Visit theme parks like Movie World or Dreamworld (student discounts available).
✅ Explore Burleigh Heads National Park for stunning coastal walks.

💰 Budget tip: Stay in budget hostels or camp in nearby national parks.

Noosa – Sunshine Coast Paradise

A laid-back coastal escape just 2 hours north of Brisbane.
✅ Walk the Noosa National Park coastal track to spot dolphins and koalas.
✅ Relax on Noosa Main Beach, one of Australia’s best swimming spots.
✅ Try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking on the Noosa River.

💰 Budget tip: Take a Greyhound bus instead of driving to save on transport costs.

4. Weekend Getaways from Perth

Rottnest Island – Beaches & Quokkas

 A short 30-minute ferry ride from Perth, Rottnest Island offers a perfect mix of snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and scenic cycling routes.
✅ Take a selfie with the famous quokkas.
✅ Cycle around the island and relax on stunning beaches.
✅ Snorkel in The Basin or Little Salmon Bay.

💰 Budget tip: Take the student ferry discount and bring your own bike to avoid rental fees.

Margaret River – Wine & Surfing

A 3 hour drive from Perth, Margaret River is a paradise for wine lovers, adventure seekers, and surfers, with stunning caves and world-class waves.
✅ Visit world-famous vineyards and breweries.
✅ Explore the stunning Mammoth Cave and limestone formations.
✅ Surf or swim at Prevelly Beach.

💰 Budget tip: Join a budget group tour to visit multiple wineries at a lower cost.

5. Weekend Getaways from Cairns

Fitzroy Island – Tropical Island Escape

A 45-minute ferry ride from Cairns, Fitzroy Island is a tropical escape perfect for snorkeling, hiking, and relaxing on pristine beaches.
✅ Snorkel at Nudey Beach, one of Australia’s most beautiful beaches.
✅ Hike to Summit Lookout for panoramic views of the Coral Sea.
✅ Visit the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre to see rescued sea turtles.

💰 Budget tip: Pack your own food and take the cheapest ferry option in the morning.

Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation – Ancient Nature

A 2.5-hour drive from Cairns, the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation.
✅ Explore the world's oldest rainforest.
✅ Spot cassowaries and crocodiles in their natural habitat.
✅ Walk along Cape Tribulation Beach, where the rainforest meets the reef.

💰 Budget tip: Stay in a budget eco-lodge or camp in the rainforest for an affordable adventure.

Studying in Australia is more than just earning a degree—it’s about experiencing new places, cultures, and opportunities. Choosing the right course can open doors to career opportunities and long-term visa options.

You don’t have to figure it out alone. For over 8 years, we’ve helped students like you choose the right course and understand their visa options. If you have questions or need support, feel free to reach out, we're here to help.