The 21 Best Places For Stargazing In Australia

Our most stellar natural light shows are utterly enchanting – once you know where to find them.

We’re a sun-loving nation, home to some of the world’s most extraordinary daylight attractions. But our starry nights are seriously underrated. Dotted with state-of-the-art observatories, dark sky parks that limit light pollution and spectacular scenic vantage points, Australia is a stargazer’s wonderland. Allow us to shine a light…

1. Uluṟu, NT

For a deeply spiritual experience, it’s hard to beat peering up above Uluṟu-Kata Tjuta National Park towards an infinite blanket of twinkling lights. Free of artificial luminosity and big-city pollution, the sacred land offers magnificent views of the Milky Way, Southern Cross, Magellanic Cloud galaxies and other constellations.

a sky full of stars in Uluru — Book a stargazing trip with Uluru Astro Tours. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Ayers Rock Resort runs Astro Tours that explore the evolution of our universe using telescopes, so it’s a great pick if you’d like some guidance.

Astro Tour Uluru — Join Astro Tours to explore the evolution of our universe using telescopes. (Image: Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia)

2. Kunanyi/Mount Wellington, Tas

It’s no secret Tassie is the best place to view the southern hemisphere’s fantastical Aurora Australis, also known as the Southern Lights, but did you know Hobart’s Mount Wellington is an ideal viewing spot?

Wait for a dark, clear night, and climb hard because the higher you get, the more likely you’ll spot the elusive lightshow. For your best bet, bring a camera – a slow shutter will capture it easier than your peepers.

Aurora Australis, South Coast Track — Witness the spectacular Aurora Australis in Tasmania. (Image: Matty Eaton)

3. Sydney Observatory, NSW

Explore the night sky from the depths of one of Sydney’s most colourful corners at the Sydney Observatory in Millers Point. The heritage-listed building, striking in its old sandstone glory, provides a sweeping vantage point plus plenty of fascinating relics to stickybeak in its museum as your astrological enlightenment lingers into the evening. Nightly tours run from Wednesday to Saturday.

night sky with twinkling stars at the Sydney Observatory in Millers Point — Admire the shimmering night sky. (Image: Courtesy of Powerhouse. Credit: Geoff Wyatt)

4. Mudgee Observatory, NSW

Once you’ve ticked off the very best Mudgee wine tours and experiences, head to the west of the region to experience the Mudgee Observatory . Telescopes and binoculars are on hand to sharpen your vision and there’s also a planetarium and theatre that screens educational films. Tours are also scheduled regularly so check the website for up-to-date session times.

Couple enjoying the firepit while stargazing from the DulliTent at Sierra Escape, Piambong. — Admire the night sky in Mudgee. (Image: Guy Williment)

5. Grampians National Park, Vic

After a day spent wandering through walking trails, waterfalls and sensational bushland, make tracks to Reed Lookout in Victoria’s Grampians National Park for a magical light show. The sky gets extremely dark out there, and there’s nothing but clear yonder to stare into, so the popular lookout spot will throw up sensational stargazing conditions all year round. The Hollow Mountain Lookout provides another amazing vantage point.

the Hollow Mountain Lookout at Grampians National Park, Vic — Hollow Mountain is great for fantastic star views. (Image: Visit Victoria)

6. Leon Mow Dark Sky Site, Vic

If you’re an avid stargazer, you’ll be all over dark sky parks and just how magnificent they are. The wide-open spaces offer killer clear skies due to the limitation of street lights, lights turning off at a certain hour each night and the removal of upward-facing lights.

Leon Mow Dark Sky Site is a great example, located near Heathcote in Victoria. You’ve got to become a member of the Astronomical Society of Victoria to access it but once you do, you’ll be spoilt with telescopes, amenities including a kitchen, showers and toilets, and invitations to members’ parties that celebrate the wonders high above.

7. Springbrook Research Observatory, Qld

Fancy spending your Friday or Saturday night under a blanket of stars? The Springbrook Research Observatory on the Gold Coast opens its doors to the public twice a week and loves turning visitors into avid stargazers. The hinterland hotspot consists of a primary dome with a viewing rooftop, as well as loads of telescopes to help you zoom in on all the magic.

8. Yagurli Tours, Burketown, Qld

Learn more about the night sky and the Indigenous land it looms over with Yagurli Tours in Queensland’s Burketown. Local guides are on hand to share Dreamtime stories and tales from Australia’s largest salt pans, located right on site. Telescopes come with every tour as do light snacks and mozzie spray.

Yagurli Tours in Burketown, Qld — Drive to Queensland’s Burketown for the magical Yagurli Tours. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

9. Arkaroola Dark Sky Sanctuary, SA

One of the country’s most famous dark sky parks, Arkaroola Dark Sky Sanctuary in South Australia is a remote gem providing a choose-your-own-adventure stargazing journey.

a night sky filled with stars at Arkaroola Astronomical Observatory — Arkaroola Astronomical Observatory turns into an otherworldly backdrop at night. (Image: Tourism Australia/South Australian Tourism Commission)

Pick from three Astronomy Experiences spanning telescope use or simply sitting in a camping chair and looking up, as well as the Ridgetop Sleepout, an overnight stay that takes in some of the grounds’ best vantage points.

stargazing at Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, Flinders Ranges, South Australia — Go stargazing in the remote and rugged Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary. (Image: Tourism Australia/South Australian Tourism Commission)

10. Wilpena Pound, SA

A spectacular amphitheatre of mountains located 429 kilometres from Adelaide, Wilpena Pound is a natural wonder, and its majesty should be seen to be fully comprehended.

a night sky filled with stars at Wilpena Pound — The Milky Way envelops the rugged landscape of Wilpena Pound. (Image: Mathew Storer)

While you’re at it, just look up for crystal clear stargazing. Mountain ranges and gorges on ground level, a moving light show up above, the scene is staggeringly beautiful and deeply enriching.

a vibrant night sky at Wilpena Pound — Wilpena Pound is blessed with spectacularly clear skies. (Image: Michael Waterhouse Photography)

11. Lake Ballard, WA

Located in Menzies, Lake Ballard and its 51 steel sculptures produce the most surreal stargazing experience in Western Australia.

All speckled and electric up high as a rugged land dotted with otherworldly artwork mystifies down low, Lake Ballard’s sculpture masterpiece is the result of British artist Sir Antony Gormley getting 51 locals to strip naked and pose for digital scans which were cast into moulds. Weird, wonderful stuff.

Antony Gormley Sculptures at Lake Ballard — Stare in awe at Antony Gormley’s sculptures at Lake Ballard. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

12. Lucky Bay, Esperance, WA

Another spot for anybody chasing the Aurora Australis, plus those keen to see kangaroos on a beach, is Lucky Bay in Esperance. The postcard-perfect swimming spot with clear night skies and no light pollution delights star seekers while the Southern Ocean glistens below to create a marvellous medley of pure magic.

Aurora Australis in Lucky Bay, Esperance WA — Chasing the Aurora Australis in Lucky Bay. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

13. Earth Sanctuary, NT

A smorgasbord of astrology tours is on offer from Earth Sanctuary in the Northern Territory, where remote nothingness and little artificial light create stellar conditions for nightly gazing.

Choose to go on a one-and-a-half-hour big group tour or keep things cosy by spending the night with a small group outdoors and keeping watch up from sunset to sunrise.

stargazing at Earth Sanctuary, NT — Get the best view of the Milky Way at Earth Sanctuary, NT. (Image: Tourism NT/Plenty of Dust)

14. Franklin, Tas

If you’ve already ticked off Kunanyi/Mount Wellington in Tassie, try the little town of Franklin next. The Aurora Australis flutters its stuff over this way on occasion and if you don’t catch it, you’re almost guaranteed a glimpse of the Milky Way all year round.

Aurora Australis in The Tyndall Range, commonly called The Tyndalls, is a mountain range that is part of the West Coast Range located in the Western region of Tasmania. — The Aurora Australis flutters its stuff over Franklin on occasion. (Image: allaboutadventure)

15. Warrumbungle National Park, NSW

Another brilliant dark sky park that bans light pollution, Warrumbungle National Park is a two-hour drive from Dubbo. No artificial light means the Milky Way can radiate down uninterrupted, making for sensational scenes if you’re camping in the park’s rich bushland.

the night sky filled with bright stars over the dark sky parkin the Warrumbungles — Set up your tent at the dark sky park. (Image: Destination NSW)

Walking tracks will keep your days busy but it’s the spectacular volcanic mountain vistas that decorate all the starry goodness at night that really put this place on the map.

bright stars over the dark sky parkin the Warrumbungles — Admire the exceptionally star-studded skies at Warrumbungle National Park’s dark sky park. (Image: Destination NSW)

16. Broken Hill, NSW

The country’s oldest mining town is isolated from other towns and city lights, helping it produce magnificent conditions for stargazing. Broken Hill is also home to Outback Astronomy , a company that specialises in stargazing and runs its own guided Sky Shows.

a couple stargazing at Outback Astronomy, Broken Hill, NSW — Cuddle up under the starry sky at Broken Hill. (Image: Destination NSW)

Passionate astrology experts walk you through everything that’s going on up above and show you how to look out for the constellations yourself once you’re back home.

17. Perth Observatory, WA

Just 25 kilometres east of Perth lies the Perth Observatory where a team of astronomy buffs will teach you everything you need to know about constellations and the night sky.

Plus, their extensive collection of telescopes offers front-row seats to the likes of dying stars (yep, they’re a thing), nebulas, star clusters, the moon, our surrounding planets and more. If you’re keen to dive deep into the world of astrology, this place is a must.

stargazing at Perth Observatory — Get front-row seats to the best views of the night sky at Perth Observatory.

18. Great Ocean Road, Vic

There’s jaw-dropping beauty to be found right along the snaking coastal stretch, but the vast skies above the Great Ocean Road equally delight. Look up to spy the Milky Way on a clear night and even Saturn and Jupiter sometimes.

While any location along the stretch will do, catching a light show directly above The Twelve Apostles never fails as a memorable road trip activity.

a lightshow at Twelve Apostles, Gibson Steps Beach — Catch the light show off the shore of Port Campbell National Park. (Image: Visit Victoria)

19. Mangrove Mountain, NSW

Journey inland from the Central Coast to find Mangrove Mountain, right near Peats Ridge, and sensational stargazing conditions. Its elevated ground well and truly eliminates potential light pollution, and you’ll likely spot the Milky Way if it’s clear night.

20. Wave Rock, WA

The remote landmark is better known during the daylight hours for its vividly hued granite cliffs but Wave Rock, in the tiny town of Hyden, is also a spectacular spot at night.

Pollution-free conditions make for an unobstructed sky in which to look for scattered constellations. However, it’s the unique streaks that bounce off the rock itself, created when rainwater hits the surface, that make for incredible photographs.

the Wave Rock in Hyden — The curved granite resembles a wave. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

21. Mount Stromlo Observatory, ACT

Free stargazing nights are regularly staged at Mount Stromlo Observatory , a Canberra hot spot run by the Canberra Astronomical Society. Guests are invited to soak up stargazing tips from its members and marvel at the Observatory’s 188-centimetre dome set amid rich greenery.

the dome at Mount Stromlo Observatory — Marvel under the stars at Mount Stromlo Observatory. (Image: VisitCanberra)

More than just a stopover, Albury Wodonga is an elevated city escape immersed in nature.

Perhaps best known as a road trip stop between Sydney and Melbourne, Albury Wodonga offers a combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences and a vibrant food scene that make it well worth its own journey.

Nestled on the banks of the mighty Murray River and surrounded by famed wine and gold rush regions, this riverside town packs a broad punch. Discover how best to spend your days on the border.

Exploring the Murray River

1. The Crossing Place Trail

woman looking at sculpture along Crossing Place Trail loop — Admire sculptural works from local Indigenous artists.

Head to the original crossing places of the Murray River since 1848 – at the junctions of Bungambrawatha Creek and Oddies Creek. Today, these crossings are still used by cars and cattle, but the five-kilometre Crossing Place Trail loop connects the two bridges for bike riders and walkers.

Wander through gum trees, and maybe even spot local platypus and birdlife. Stop along the way to admire sculptural works from local Indigenous artists, see evidence of a scar tree and learn about the importance of this billabong environment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

2. Canoe The Murray

two people kayaking along the murray river at Noreuil Park — Hire canoes or kayaks and get out on the river.

What better way to get a feel for the Murray River than by getting out on its waters? Hire canoes or kayaks from Canoe the Murray , then explore solo or join one of the offered tours. Get up early for a Sunrise and coffee tour, watch the sun dip below the water on a sunset tour or choose one of several daytime trips.

Stand-up paddleboard hire and other water sports, fishing and swimming are also available to river explorers.

3. Noreuil Park Foreshore

aerial of Noreuil Park albury wodonga — Cool off at Noreuil Park Foreshore. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Just outside Albury’s CBD, the riverside Noreuil Park becomes a hub of activity as the weather heats up. Set up on picnic tables under shady trees, use the public barbecues (or pop into the nearby cafe) and cool off with a float down the river.

4. Mungabareena Reserve and Water Works

Mungabareena Reserve albury wodonga — Spend time at Mungabareena Reserve. (Image: Visit Albury Wodonga)

Delve into nature and culture at the beautiful Mungabareena Reserve . Recognised by state law as a ‘Declared Aboriginal Place’, it was once a historical meeting point for trade and journeys to Mount Bogong for the local Wiradjuri people and still holds deep significance.

It’s another popular spot for fishing, swimming and picnics, while the nearby Water Works area is a great place for spotting wildlife. Try your luck seeing platypuses, wood ducks or rainbow bee-eaters.

Adventuring on Lake Hume

1. Walk the dam wall

parent and child look at the view from the damn wall walk at lake hume — Enjoy the view from the dam wall. (Image: Visit Albury Wodonga)

The majestic Lake Hume – a massive man-made reservoir on the Murray River – was once the largest dam in the Southern Hemisphere.

A great way to get acquainted is by walking along the dam wall, taking in views of outflows, electricity turbines and the transmission plant from above. Not to mention vistas of the lake and the Murray. It’s a particularly gorgeous spot for sunsets and sunrises.

A wide sealed walkway gives easy access to the wall, and informative signs and displays along the way educate on the dam’s construction.

2. The High Country Rail Trail

This 44-kilometre trail hugs the shoreline. Stop along the way at the historic town of Tallangatta, relocated to its current position in the 1950s after its original location was flooded. Cross the lake over the bright red Sandy Creek Bridge. Enjoy a lakeside picnic or go for a swim at Ebden, Ludlow’s or Huon Reserve.

3. Water sports

two people watching SUP boarders and a boat our on the water at lake hume — Dive into water sports on Lake Hume.

Lake Hume is a popular local spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. Drop a line or dive right into the clear waters.

Sip and Savour

1. Dux Albury

two people sitting at counter drinking wine inside Dux Albury — Sit down to delicious meals and wine at Dux.

Those looking for a high-end dining experience need to book a table at Dux Albury in the heart of Albury Wodonga. Sit down for curated wine lists, cocktails and share plates. Think starters like burrata with beetroot, chervil, caper berry and sherry, mains like Wagyu sirloin with Café De Paris, red wine and caramelised onions and all manner of fresh seafood.

2. Murray Towns Brewing Co.

people being served lunch at Murray Brewing Co. — Recharge at Murray Brewing Co.

Perched on the banks of the river, Murray Towns Brewing Co . has come a long way since two mates started experimenting in their backyard chook shed. With all beer brewed onsite and a sun-drenched beer garden to drink them in, it’s a perfect stop along a bike ride or walk.

3. Temperance and General

Step into Albury’s original laneway bar, Temperance and General . Set inside a historic building, but offering a modern vibe, the bar is locally famous for its cocktail list. Stop in before or after dinner for a creative tipple.

4. BeanStation Cafe

two people drinking coffee at Bean Station albury wodonga — Dine on a modern Australian menu.

Dine on a modern Australian menu , inside the historic Wodonga train station building, dating back to 1873. Pop over in the morning and line up with the locals for great coffee and all-day brekkie, or head over after midday to swap the beans for local wines and Aussie boutique beers.

5. River Deck Cafe

waiter holding two dishes at Riverdeck Cafe albury wodonga — Soak in views and good food at Riverdeck Cafe. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Another dining destination next to the Murray, the award-winning River Deck Cafe provides a large deck covered in dappled sunlight that makes for the ideal long lunch spot. Here, menus focus on natural, native and local ingredients sourced from regional farmers and producers across Albury Wodonga and surrounds.

Museums, murals and more

1. Albury Wodonga Public Art Trail

Gain a sense of Albury Wodonga’s vibrant arts community while wandering the Public Art Trail. Works range from sculptures and murals to wrapped infrastructure. Be sure to check the council map before you head out, so you don’t miss a thing.

2. Murray Art Museum Albury (MAMA)

couple admiring the art at Murray Art Gallery — Stop into one of the most visited galleries outside of Sydney. (Image: Visit Albury Wodonga)

MAMA forms the heart of art and culture in Albury Wodonga, some may say the entire Murray region. In fact, it’s one of the most visited galleries outside of Sydney. What makes it so lauded? The museum has earned a reputation for curating innovative, original exhibitions from some of the best contemporary Australian and international artists.

3. HotHouse Theatre

Originally built in 1928 as the Butter Factory Theatre, HotHouse Theatre has been a home of performance since 1997. Stop by to see the best of new Australian theatre. Continue to explore unique architecture on the Historic Building Walking Tour of Albury, the perfect way to round out your stay.

Start planning your Albury Wodonga getaway at visitalburywodonga.com.