Spring in Australia runs from September to November, bringing warmer days, blooming gardens, migrating whales, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. If you're looking for the best things to do in Australia in spring, this guide covers six memorable Australia spring activities, from whale watching and jacaranda walks to hiking and water adventures.
For more information on Australia's spring season and what to expect, check the official Australia spring guide. You'll also find practical travel tips to help you plan your route and make the most of your spring trip.
Top 6 things to do in Australia in spring
From blooming gardens and purple jacaranda streets to whale watching and scenic hikes, spring offers plenty of ways to experience Australia’s outdoors.
- Go Whale Watching Along the Australian Coast
Spring is peak season for whale watching, as humpback whales migrate south with their calves. Popular spots include Sydney, the Gold Coast, and Hervey Bay, where boat tours offer close-up sightings of breaching and tail-slapping. A guided tour is the easiest way to spot whales responsibly, and for many it's one of the best things to do in Australia in spring.
- Walk Through Jacaranda-Lined Streets in Sydney
Sydney's jacarandas burst into purple bloom between October and November, one of the most popular spring activities in Australia for photographers. McDougall Street in Kirribilli and the University of Sydney's sandstone quadrangle are the best-known spots. Bloom timing shifts each year, so check conditions before you head out. A purple-lined street is easily one of the best things to do in Australia in spring.
- Visit a Spring Flower Festival in Canberra
Canberra's Floriade festival transforms Commonwealth Park into a sea of tulips and seasonal blooms, with live entertainment, markets and family-friendly activities running alongside the gardens. It's a relaxed, free-to-attend option for families, and one of the best things to do in Australia in spring if you want flowers without much walking.For more seasonal events and ideas, you can also explore this guide to Best Spring Festivals in Australia 2026.
- Explore Tulip Gardens at Bowral's Tulip Time Festival
Bowral, in the Southern Highlands, is one of the best places to visit in Australia in spring for flower lovers. The Tulip Time Festival fills Corbett Gardens with tulips, market stalls and entertainment. It's an easy day trip from Sydney, and ranks among the best things to do in Australia in spring.
- Go Hiking in the Blue Mountains
Mild temperatures make spring ideal for hiking, and the Blue Mountains deliver bushland trails, waterfalls and cliff-top lookouts. Choose a trail based on your fitness, from short lookout walks to longer bushwalks — for many, it's simply one of the best things to do in Australia in spring. Carry water, wear proper footwear, and check trail conditions first.
- Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding
Rivers, lakes, and sheltered coastal spots make for great kayaking and paddleboarding once the weather warms up. Spring's milder conditions suit beginners still finding their balance better than summer's heat. Start with a calm location, wear a life jacket, and check conditions first- a gentle entry into one of the best things to do in Australia in spring.
How to Get Around and Plan Your Trip
To explore more and make your trip hassle-free, here are some travel tips
- Choose your transport: Use trains, buses, and ferries in major cities, while renting a car can be useful for road trips and regional destinations.
- Plan your route: Australia is huge, so avoid trying to cover too many regions in one trip. Choose a few destinations and allow enough travel time between them.
- Book popular experiences early: Reserve whale-watching tours, festivals, accommodation and popular activities in advance during busy periods.
- Check spring weather: September to November can bring changing conditions, so check the forecast before outdoor activities.
- Pack smart: Carry comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a light jacket and a reusable water bottle.
- Use public transport in cities: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and other major cities have public transport networks that can make getting around easier.
- Allow extra time for road trips: Distances between Australian destinations can be much greater than they appear on a map.
- Stay safe outdoors: Follow local signs, stay on marked trails and check conditions before hiking, swimming or kayaking.
Final Thoughts
From whale watching and jacaranda-lined streets to flower festivals, hiking and paddling, Australia's spring calendar has something for every traveller. These six spring activities in Australia cover flowers, wildlife, festivals and the outdoors, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the season at your own pace. If you're planning a relaxed outdoor day between activities, you can also explore these top picnic spots in Australia for scenic places to stop, unwind and enjoy the spring weather. Choose the activities that suit your travel style, and plan how to travel in Australia between them well ahead of time.
FAQs
- What are the best things to do in Australia in spring?
Whale watching, jacaranda walks in Sydney, Floriade in Canberra, Bowral's Tulip Time Festival, Blue Mountains hiking and kayaking are among the best things to do in Australia in spring.
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- What months are spring in Australia?
Australian spring runs from September through November.
- Is spring a good time to travel around Australia?
Yes — mild temperatures, blooming gardens and whale migration make spring one of the most popular seasons to explore Australia.
- Where can I see spring flowers in Australia?
Sydney's jacaranda streets, Canberra's Floriade festival and Bowral's Tulip Time Festival are top places to visit in Australia in spring for flowers.
- Can you go whale watching in Australia in spring?
Yes, spring is peak whale-watching season along much of the Australian coast, including Sydney, the Gold Coast and Hervey Bay.
- What is the best way to travel around Australia?
A mix of domestic flights for long distances and rental cars or public transport for shorter regional trips usually works best.
