The Iglu Guide | Blog
Winter activities for students in Australia
Winter in Australia brings cooler temperatures, crisper air, and a chance to experience a completely different side of the country. For students living here, it’s a great time to step outside your usual study routine and explore everything the season has to offer. Whether you’re into sports, nature, food, or culture, there’s no shortage of winter activities for students to keep the energy up during the colder months.
Get into the game
Aussies don’t let winter slow down their love for sport, and whether you’re a die-hard fan or just want to soak up the atmosphere, winter is full of options. Major sporting codes like AFL and rugby league are in full swing, with matches taking place across stadiums in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. It’s a great way to experience something that’s a big part of local culture—and even if you don’t understand all the rules, the energy of the crowd makes it a fun experience.
Whale watching and wildlife experiences
Winter is one of the best seasons for seeing Australia’s wildlife in action, particularly along the coastline. Between May and November, thousands of humpback whales migrate north along the east coast, offering plenty of opportunities to spot them from various clifftops and lookout points.
In Sydney, places like the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk or North Head near Manly offer spectacular vantage points. In Queensland, the waters around Moreton Bay and Hervey Bay are popular resting spots for whales, and you can often see them breaching and playing just offshore. For a calmer pace, winter is also a good time to visit zoos and wildlife parks, as cooler weather means many animals are more active during the day.
Explore nature at a slower pace
For those who enjoy being outdoors but don’t love the summer heat, winter is the perfect season for hikes and nature walks. The Blue Mountains near Sydney are ideal for day trips, with cool air, dramatic misty views, and plenty of walking trails suitable for all fitness levels. Popular spots include the Three Sisters rock formation, Wentworth Falls, and the scenic rides at Scenic World.
Down south, the Grampians in Victoria offer a combination of walking trails, Aboriginal rock art sites, and the chance to spot kangaroos and wallabies in the wild. Near Brisbane, you can take a short trip to Mount Tamborine or Lamington National Park, both offering rainforest walks, waterfalls, and panoramic lookouts.
Stay active with a change of scene
If the gym is starting to feel repetitive, winter is a great time to switch things up. Runners will love Sydney’s annual City2Surf that takes you from Sydney CBD to Bondi Beach in time for breakfast, or try the Bridge to Brisbane and be part of Queensland’s largest fun run that takes you past some of the iconic local landmarks.
For something completely different, many cities host pop-up ice rinks or snow-themed events in their central areas. These can be a fun way to try something new with friends, and you don’t need to be a figure skater to enjoy them. Just rug up, have a go, and maybe finish it off with a hot chocolate.
Chase the Snow
If you’ve never seen snow in Australia, winter is your chance.
The Snowy Mountains in NSW and the Victorian Alps (around Mount Hotham, Falls Creek and Mount Buller) offer everything from skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and tobogganing. Even if you’re not keen on hitting the slopes, just spending a day in a snow-covered village with hot chocolate in hand is a great way to experience a completely different side of Australia.
Student-friendly snow tours often run from major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, especially on weekends, with gear hire and transport included. It’s a great way to enjoy a full day (or weekend) of snow fun without needing your own equipment or car. Just remember to pack layers, and prepare for some seriously scenic road trip views on the way there.
Escape to the wine regions
For a slightly more relaxed day out, winter is a lovely time to visit one of the country’s wine regions. Cooler weather, open fires, and quiet cellar doors offer a completely different vibe to the busy summer crowds. Even if you’re not big on wine, these areas often have great local food, scenic drives, and countryside walks.
Popular spots include the Yarra Valley in Victoria, known for its cool-climate wines and fresh local produce; the Hunter Valley in New South Wales, which is just a few hours from Sydney and offers plenty of student-friendly tours and tastings; and parts of South East Queensland that are home to small vineyards and mountain villages.
Enjoy the season, your way
Winter in Australia is anything but boring. Whether you’re exploring your local area or heading off on a short trip with friends, there’s plenty to discover during the cooler months. From outdoor adventures and wildlife encounters to cultural events and food experiences, winter is the perfect time to try something different, meet new people, and make the most of student life beyond the books.
