The Best Australian Destination To Visit In June, According To Samantha Brown

Australia is much more than a vast wilderness of exotic creatures. It is also much more than its largest cities, like Melbourne and Sydney. While these cities are amazing — with Melbourne in particular frequently ranking among the world's best cities to live in – Australia has quite a few hidden gem destinations that should be on your bucket list. You can escape winter woes on remarkable beaches thanks to the southern hemisphere's flipped seasons, or visit during Australia's winter (June through August), given that even these months rarely see cold weather.

If you're heading Down Under, travel expert and television host Samantha Brown recommends visiting the small town of Darwin, especially in June. On her website, Brown says June is the perfect time to visit Darwin because, despite being the beginning of winter, Darwin's temperatures still hover around the high 70s and low 80s Fahrenheit. This town sees low rainfall during this month as well. Come for the balmy weather. Stay for the cuisine, quick access to nature, and luxurious seaside lodging.

Darwin, Australia, is located on the northern coast of the country's Northern Territory province. Its proximity to islands of southeast Asian countries like Indonesia and Timor-Leste affect not only Darwin's climate, but also its food. To get some Aussie-Asian fusion cuisine, Samantha Brown goes to the Mindil Beach Sunset Market. The food vendors who frequent this beachside market sell dishes inspired by those found in Hong Kong, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, and more. Brown especially likes to seek out laksa, a coconut noodle soup from Malaysia. Mindil Beach Sunset Market is open from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursdays and Sundays. There are also handmade crafts for sale and even musical performances. 

As the name suggests, Mindil Beach Sunset Market is located next to Mindil Beach. Before heading to the market in the evening, spend some time relaxing on the beach's golden sand. Swimming in the ocean at this beach is allowed, but it wouldn't be Australia without some wildlife risks. Box jellyfish and saltwater crocodiles might be taking dips here too. Tread carefully!

Darwin is close to many of the Northern Territory's national parks. Litchfield National Park has pristine waterfalls feeding into swimming areas, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. To access the park, Samantha Brown suggests enlisting the help of Cyaround Australia Tours, which offers single- and multi-day trips. This company also takes guests to Nitmiluk National Park, home of the famous and massive Katherine Gorge with scenic overlooks. A third option with Cyaround heads to Kakadu National Park. This park is not only a must-visit for stunning landscapes, the region also includes rock art from fascinating ancient people who once occupied the land.

As a coastal town, Darwin has amazing places to stay right on the water. Cullen Bay Resorts overlook the Cullen Bay Marina and Darwin Harbor. Stay in a standard room or book a luxurious apartment. To swim with views of the ocean, but without the previously-mentioned risks of box jellyfish and crocodiles, book a room at the Mindil Beach Casino Resort and relax in their on-site pool, which overlooks Mindil Beach. Its casino games range from table games to electronic machines and can be enjoyed even if you are not staying at the hotel.