Want to experience nature at its absolute best: pure and untouched? Some of the most rarely visited reefs are in your backyard. They are healthy, thriving and ready to envelop you in a trance of wonder and awe. Don’t take our word for it, come see for yourself!

(image credit: Bundaberg Brewed Drinks)

Gather the troops and pack the car, it's time for an escape to the town the turtles call home.

David Whitley
Traveller

Australia's greedy collection of top drawer beaches is the envy of the world. In fact, Oz has so many magnificent stretches of sand that it can afford to give some over to animals. Around the country, there are beaches where it's often possible to spot magnificent marsupials and cute critters mooching around – and whether whale-watching from the dunes or hanging out in the breaking waves with roos, these are some of the top spots for beastly beach encounters.