SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Mar. 2, 2025 – Lonely Planet has unveiled its highly anticipated "Dream Trips of the World" for 2025, highlighting eight extraordinary adventures across Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. This curated list offers travelers a diverse range of experiences, from classic road trips to immersive cultural encounters and breathtaking natural wonders.
Embark on a Classic Road Trip from Sydney to Byron Bay, Australia
Few journeys define Australia's road-trip culture like the route from Sydney to Byron Bay. "Kick-start the trip in Sydney, checking out the city's big-ticket sights, before driving two hours north to discover the Central Coast region's golden sandstone cliffs, sapphire beaches and seaside national parks," Lonely Planet editors recommend. This route, popularized by surfers in the 1960s, takes travelers through historic Newcastle, the Hunter Valley wine region, and the scenic Port Stephens. The journey culminates in Byron Bay, known for its sun, surf, and vibrant culinary scene. "Pro tip: New South Wales’ North Coast is a year-round destination, though the spring and autumn months (September to November and March to May) offer some of the best beach weather, and fewer crowds outside of Easter and the late September/ October school holidays."
Walk in the Footsteps of Tasmania's (lutruwita) Oldest Custodians, Australia
For a deeper connection to Australia's heritage, the "wukalina Walk" in Tasmania offers a unique experience. "Australia's wild and rugged landscapes aren’t only layered with natural beauty, but also threaded with ancestral stories," Lonely Planet explains. This four-day, three-night guided hike, led by Palawa guides, immerses participants in the Mt William National Park and the Bay of Fires region. Guests learn about ancestral connections to the land, sample traditional bush tucker, and stay in architect-designed domed huts. "Pro tip: The tour departs Launceston up to five times monthly from September to April or May."
Spot Rare Animals on Kangaroo Island, Australia
Kangaroo Island, often called the "Galápagos of Australia," is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. "Wildlife sightings in Australia don’t come better than spotting a koala. On Kangaroo Island (KI), it’s not uncommon to see half a dozen curled up in one tree," Lonely Planet notes. The island is home to unique subspecies of kangaroos and koalas, as well as diverse flora and fauna across its national parks. Beyond wildlife, visitors can enjoy gourmet produce and explore scenic walking trails. "Pro tip: The best way to see Kangaroo Island is by a self-driving adventure or organized tour."
Dive into the Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef offers unparalleled underwater beauty. "The sight of the Great Barrier Reef is a salve for the soul. And that’s before you’ve been dazzled by the spectacle of color, texture and activity below the surface," says Lonely Planet. The Southern Great Barrier Reef, particularly Lady Elliot Island and Lady Musgrave Island, provides low-impact eco-tourism experiences. Visitors can also explore the Mon Repos Turtle Centre during nesting season. "Pro tip: Bundaberg is a 4.5 hour drive north from Brisbane, or a one-hour flight. Aim to stay in the seaside suburb of Bargara."
Explore the South Island's Fiords and Mountains, New Zealand
New Zealand's South Island offers a diverse landscape of fiords and mountains. "Explore New Zealand's wilderness on the sparsely populated South Island (Te Waipounamu)," suggests Lonely Planet. Begin in Queenstown, then journey to Te Anau and Milford Sound, where boat cruises offer views of Fiordland penguins and marine life. Continue to Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, Punakaiki's Pancake Rocks, and the Paparoa Track.
Make a Gourmet Escape to Waiheke Island, New Zealand
Waiheke Island, known as the "island of wine," offers a culinary retreat. "Waiheke, just south of Auckland, is home to vineyards, breweries and some of the best culinary experiences in New Zealand," Lonely Planet highlights. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, local cuisine, and scenic views of the Hauraki Gulf. "Pro tip: Stopping at vineyards and beaches, Fullers’ Hop-On Hop-Off Explorer Bus is the most convenient way to get around Waiheke Island."
Drive Around Paradise in the Cook Islands
The Cook Islands offer a tranquil escape with pristine beaches and lush landscapes. "In the Cook Islands, beaches are never crowded, traffic is nonexistent and there are no buildings taller than a coconut tree," Lonely Planet describes. The main island, Rarotonga, features scenic drives, snorkeling, and a vast marine park, Marae Moana.
Visit One of the World's Happiest Nations, Vanuatu
Vanuatu, ranked as one of the world's happiest nations, provides a mix of adventure and cultural immersion. "Vanuatu, an island country in the South Pacific Ocean, is ranked the world’s second-happiest nation by the Happy Planet Index," says Lonely Planet. Visitors can explore dive sites, witness land diving on Pentecost Island, and experience the volcanic activity of Mt Yasur on Tanna Island. "Pro tip: With epic dive sites on its doorstep, White Grass Ocean Resort is the pick of accommodation on Vanuatu’s Tanna Island."
These eight dream trips offer a glimpse into the diverse and captivating experiences available in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific, making 2025 a year of unforgettable adventures.
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