Though it is the smallest continent, Australia is the sixth largest country in the world and has long been an ally of the United States. U.S. and Australian forces have fought side by side in every significant conflict since World War I and marked 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2015.
“The U.S.-Australia alliance is an anchor for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and around the world,” a statement on the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Australia website reads. “Both countries share a strong interest in maintaining freedom of navigation, overflight, and other lawful uses of the sea, including in the South China Sea.
Find yourself in Australia? Here’s how to spend your time in The Land Down Under’s top four ports:
Perth
Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is home to a Royal Australian Air Force Base and an international airport that supports U.S. aircraft delivering equipment to U.S. ships.
Explore Kings Park and Botanic Garden: One of the largest inner-city parks in the world, Kings Park offers panoramic views of Perth’s skyline and Swan River, as well as beautiful walking trails and native plants and flowers.
Visit Rottnest Island: A short ferry ride from Perth, Rottnest Island is famous for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and the friendly quokkas, a native marsupial found only in this region. You can explore the island by bike, snorkel, or simply relax on the beach.
Tour the Swan Valley Wine Region: A quick trip from Perth, Swan Valley offers vineyards, wineries, breweries, and delicious food. It’s an ideal destination for wine tasting and local produce.
Explore Fremantle: This historic port city is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene, and the famous Fremantle Markets, perfect for local crafts and food.
Darwin
Darwin, located at the northernmost point of Australia, is the country’s closest port to the rest of the world. As the capital of the Northern Territory, it stands as one of Australia’s most modern cities.
Visit Crocosaurus Cove: Located in the heart of Darwin, this attraction lets you get up close with Australia’s iconic saltwater crocodiles. You can even experience the “Cage of Death,” a thrilling dive with a croc from behind protective glass.
Explore Mindil Beach Sunset Market: Open during the dry season, this market is a Darwin favorite. You can enjoy local street food, browse arts and crafts vendors, and watch the sunset over Mindil Beach.
Tour Litchfield National Park: Just outside Darwin, Litchfield National Park is known for its stunning waterfalls, crystal-clear swimming holes, and iconic magnetic termite mounds. It’s perfect for a day trip of adventure and natural beauty.
Visit the Darwin Military Museum: Darwin played a key role in World War II, and this museum showcases the city’s military history, including the Japanese bombing of Darwin.
Sydney
With a population of over 4 million, Sydney, the capital city of New South Wales, is the largest Australian city.
Visit the Sydney Opera House: This world-famous architectural landmark offers stunning harbor views and a variety of performances. Even if you don’t catch a show, a guided tour provides fascinating insights into its design and history.
Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge: For out-of-this-world views of the city and harbor, the BridgeClimb offers a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you’d rather keep your feet on the ground, you can also walk or cycle across the bridge.
Relax at Bondi Beach: One of Australia’s mssost recognized beaches, Bondi is perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply soaking up the sun. The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk also offers stunning views along the cliffs for those who prefer hiking.
Explore The Rocks: This historic district near the harbor is home to cobblestone streets, charming cafes, boutique shops, and weekend markets. You can also learn about Sydney’s colonial past at The Rocks Discovery Museum.
Brisbane
Brisbane is the capital of Queensland and located in eastern Australia about 570 miles north of Sydney.
Explore South Bank: This vibrant cultural precinct along the Brisbane River features lush parklands, riverside dining, and the famous Streets Beach—a man-made inner-city beach. It’s also home to the Queensland Museum and Gallery of Modern Art, known as GOMA.
Climb the Story Bridge: For an unforgettable adventure, the Story Bridge Adventure Climb offers panoramic views of Brisbane’s skyline, the river, and surrounding mountains. It’s a great way to experience the city from above.
Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: Just outside the city, this sanctuary is the world’s largest and allows visitors to cuddle koalas, hand-feed kangaroos, and see other native Australian wildlife.