As the world slowly re-opens post-pandemic, the desire to discover new lands and experiences is at an all-time high. Our travel series seeks to inspire you with unique travel options and itineraries worldwide, spanning the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, and beyond. Join us as we embark on a journey to dreamy coastal escapes in Australia.

Gone are the days when we could book a ticket and discover the astonishing wonders of the earth anywhere, anytime, just as we pleased.

If we could pick one destination a year, we would select a place that allows us to experience something our real-life snow globe is unlikely to be able to provide. The allure of the crystal clear, turquoise waters of Australia is not just about how picture-perfect it looks, but the diversity it offers you. You can melt away your stress with a tranquil session on the water, delight in adrenaline-pumping activities cruising with the rolling waves, or dip beneath the water to be fascinated by the variety of marine species. Whether you are sunbathing or enjoying a leisurely drive along the Australian coast, the seamless blur of the sea and the sky will captivate your attention. The sun-soaked country is where Canadians start to realize there's a thalassophile inside them. Indeed, a lifestyle by the water is one of the fundamental elements to enlightened living and our overall wellbeing. So which of the following Australian waterfront getaways would you choose?

Whitsundays Islands - a tropical enchantment filled with thrills 

Whitsundays may not sound as familiar, but you must have heard of the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland, which is right next to the Whitsundays. The Whitsundays is an archipelago of 74 tropical islands where diving enthusiasts can witness an abundance of marine life ranging from vibrantly-coloured coral reefs and tropical fish to endangered turtles, whale sharks and more if you are lucky.

After a long day on or in the water, it's best to recharge yourself on a lounge chair at Whitehaven Beach as the sun melts beyond the horizon. If you are after a more laid-back getaway, you can immerse in pure luxury at InterContinental Hayman Island Resort. Here, guests enjoy utmost privacy and serenity with resort facilities such as a day spa and the renowned Hayman pool. Overlooking swaying palms, a lush lagoon and a pristine beach, every room of the villa treat guests to a spectacular visual feast featuring different shades of soothing blue. Want to sparkle the flame between you and your better half? Remember to take a helicopter or light plane for the perfect aerial view of the famed Heart Reef. 

Byron Bay - sensational escapism to awaken your spirit

Byron Bay, the New South Wales beach town, is a hippie hub due to its recent bohemian past where visitors can travel back in time for the good old gypsy vibe at the tabletop dance parties at Cheeky Monkeys. Consisting of world-class tapas restaurants and breweries, the bay attracts gourmet foodies and beer lovers alike. The variety of cuisines will tantalize your taste buds with exquisite, delectable flavours ranging from authentic Mexican dishes, delicacies featuring a modern international twist, and a tasting paddle from Byron Bay Brewery. You don't have to be a professional photographer to capture stunning photos -- it's the scenery that matters. Take a coastal stroll along the Cape Byron lighthouse track through the lavish rainforest, vast grasslands and sandy beaches as you make your way up to the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse.

Craving for an adrenaline rush? Grab a surfboard and begin your love affair with the rolling sea at Lennox Point, a world-class surf break, whereas a wide range of watersports awaits at Main Beach. For a moment of calm in your fun-filled vacation, join the beachside yoga classes at Byron Bay Surf Club, where you can practice to the sound of the waves as the salty breeze flows through palm fronds. 

Phillip Island - an intimate encounter with native wildlife

Located 90-minutes south of Melbourne, Phillip Island is known for wildlife viewing at a close distance, including the much-loved Penguin Parade, where visitors can witness thousands of native tiny penguins waddling along the beach at dusk.

A trip to the Great South Land wouldn't be complete without petting a koala and kangaroos, so remember to stop by Maru Koala and Animal Park and discover other furry inhabitants such as wallabies and echidnas. Alternatively, you can jump on board with Wildlife Coast Cruises to cruise through the sheltered waters of the island for a closer look at marine animals like seals, dolphins and whales while appreciating the rugged coastline and sound of waves lapping against the rocks. Nestled amongst stunning rolling farmlands, Five Acres luxury coastal cabins is the perfect place to come home to as it surrounds you with rustic elegance and luxury amenities. 

Regardless of which of these getaways you choose, time spent in nature and by the water is guaranteed to help you reset after yet another roller coaster year. Why not head off to one of these dreamy destinations for a week or two?