Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide may be top of mind when you think of places to visit in Australia. But when you venture to the land down under with Seabourn, you can expect a travel experience like no other — and that means the opportunity to visit a well-curated list of stunning lesser-known and visited locations.

Meet Burnie, Busselton and Norfolk Island: these can’t-miss hidden gems will level-up your Australian getaway.

Burnie: Creativity, incredible views, and award-winning whisky

Burnie is a northern coastal town in Tasmania, an island south of Melbourne, famous for its booming artist community, stunning landscape, and unique flavors. There’s so much to do, it’s hard to decide where to begin.

Burnie’s industrial history transitioned into a creative hub for artisans and craftsmen. In this “City of Makers” you’ll no doubt find incredible ceramic pieces, hand-made paper, blown glass, jewelry, or small-batch delights that will beg to return with you as a keepsake. After you stroll through the shops, head a few blocks down to the waterfront boardwalk. A walk along this breezy beach lets you take in the vast coastline.

If you’re looking for a taste of “Tassie” as the locals say, you’ve come to the right place. Chefs here praise the pristine air and water for the freshness of the food. Secure your spot on Seabourn’s Tassie Tasting Trail to tour the flavors of Burnie from chocolatiers at House of Anvers, to a lunch of fresh fish, to learning — and tasting — the art of cheesemaking at Ashgrove, a family cheesemaking farm since 1908.

The Tassie water may also be the secret ingredient in the famous whisky distilleries in Burnie. You’ll want to make time for a stop at the award-winning Hellyers Road Distillery for a taste of their single malt specialties.

Australia is known for its breathtaking scenery and Burnie certainly checks all the boxes. A short ride from the port to the Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden is an incredible way to spend your time. Bird-watching enthusiasts will marvel at the variety of species, plus a platypus or wallaby may be spotted as you wander the paths of this colorful garden. Towering waterfalls at Guide Falls, dramatic views at Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, and afternoon tea overlooking Dove Lake add to the purely magical experience that awaits you in Tasmania.

Busselton: Marine life, first-class wineries, and the famous jetty

In Western Australia, just south of Perth, you’ll find the charming, seaside city of Busselton in the Margaret River Region. Exploration meets relaxation in this port that’s famous for being home to the longest jetty in the southern hemisphere.

The Busselton Jetty is iconic to Australia. Built in 1865, this impressive structure extends for over a mile across the Geographe Bay. Take in a full view of the Bay during a leisurely 45-minute ride on a solar-powered train that runs the length of the jetty. You’ll glide above the perfectly turquoise water that stretches out to the horizon as the Western Australian breeze surrounds you. This top attraction of the area feels like you’re inside a postcard that has come to life, and there’s more wonder to come when the train drops you off at the Busselton Jetty Underwater Observatory.

A stop at the jetty has more than just gorgeous views above the ocean — it offers a rare look at the marine life 26 feet below the water. This is one of only six underwater observatories in the world. Viewing windows deep below the waves give you a closer look of the Bay’s marine life like globe fish, soft coral, lace coral, gloomy octopus, angel sharks, eagle rays, and more!

You’ll be immersed in the roots of Busselton culture as you walk through this vibrant city. Everywhere you look is enriched with art that pays tribute to the diverse history here. Sculptures and public art add a colorful touch along the sidewalks and streets, and the city encourages buskers and street performers to entertain in public spaces. This bustling area is full of talent that greets you with charm and cheer.

The natural splendors of the Australian landscape have not skipped over Busselton. Nature lovers will enjoy Tuart Forest National Park, an unbelievably beautiful park that preserves the Tuart tree, which has historical importance to Aboriginal people. Tuart trees exclusively grow on coastal limestone above and below Perth, so this is the only place in the world to see them. The trees can grow as tall as over 100 feet, giving this forest a grandiose feel. Standing under the majestic canopy surrounded by this feat of nature is a moment you’ll never forget from your day in Busselton.

No trip to the Margaret River Region is complete without a tasting at a local winery. The area is famous for Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. There are countless winery options but be sure to include Vasse Felix on your itinerary. Founded in 1967, it was the first wine estate of the region and rated one of the best to visit. Wherever you choose, fill up a glass and toast as the sun sets before you head back to the ship.

Norfolk Island: Jaw-dropping views, deep history, and a foodie’s paradise

Located in the northeast region of the continent, 1,000 miles (about 1609.34 km) off the coast of Sydney, you’ll find a small utopia in the South Pacific called Norfolk Island. The unique history of the island blends cultures from Australia and New Zealand with roots of Bounty mutineers and Polynesian descendants.

A major part of Norfolk Island’s background is that it was used as a penal colony by the British in 1788. Criminals were once banished to this complex that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site for visitors to tour. On the grounds — with the ocean as a backdrop — you’ll see the distinction between the convict quarters and where the authorities were housed. Convict labor here built Australia’s first windmill and watermill. The prison closed in 1855, but what remains can be appreciated for its architecture and its impact on the settlement’s history.

The island is also known for the indescribable beauty of its national parks packed with pine trees and its blissful beach reserves. Norfolk Island has 360 views from cliffs, rock pools, and picture-perfect peaks. Make sure to have your camera ready when you find the 200-year-old, sky-scraping Moreton Bay fig trees whose roots themselves are taller than most people!

Birdwatchers, be sure to bring your binoculars. In addition to the island’s famous green parrots, you’ll have a chance to see 116 bird species not found anywhere else in the world. Norfolk is also home to the rare morepork owl, recognized by its nighttime haunting, melancholic call and which once faced near-extinction.

Make sure to experience the waters of one of the many picturesque beaches. Norfolk Island is the serene, tropical island you’ve been dreaming of but without the crowds. The visitor-favorite Emily Bay Lagoon is known for water so clear you can see all the fish swimming along the reef, which is why glass-bottom boat tours and snorkeling are so popular in the area.

Norfolk Island is also a foodie’s paradise and it’s no mystery why. Fresh seafood is bountiful, and the volcanic origin of the soil adds depth to the flavors of the produce. You’ll find high-end dining options that are sure to delight using all local, organic ingredients. Some quintessential island dishes to try are green plun pancakes made with green bananas (fun fact: plun is a local word for green bananas) and corn pilhi, a dish made with corn and sweet potatoes. The tropical flavors you’ll find here are as unique as Norfolk Island itself.

Are you ready to go off the beaten path in Australia?

Seabourn can take you to places in Australia that will leave you speechless. These three ports, along with other lesser-traveled, hard to reach, locations such as cruising the awe-inspiring Kimberley coast, will leave you feeling relaxed and inspired. Indulge in the ultimate travel experience when you set sail with Seabourn to these unforgettable destinations topped off with world-class dining, luxuriously appointed suites and a yacht-like atmosphere that feels like your home away from home at sea.