When the working week is done, we all deserve a thrill. And what better way to blow off some steam and get the adrenaline pumping with a thrilling new hobby?
Australia is the destination for thrill seekers. We boast incredible landscapes that include mountains, beaches, rivers and more - it’s no wonder people travel from all over the world to experience everything we have to offer.
Whether you’re looking to spend time with your friends, meet some new people or simply burn off the stress of the week, we’ve got you covered. Here’s our handy guide to the best thrill hobbies in Australia.
1. Gel balling
Gel balling is the ultimate weekend thrill-seeking activity. Similar to paintballing, gel balling uses gel balls as ammunition to fire at your opponents during a series of objective-filled games. It’s a fast-paced, exciting hobby that’s perfect for a birthday, bucks party or just your average Saturday afternoon. As an activity you can do over and over again, it’s no wonder gel balling is growing in popularity.
Get the ball rolling for gel balling by making sure you’ve got all the gear. Check out Gel Ball Undercover for everything you need, including the best-priced blasters, gel balls and tactical gear.
2. Surfing
You can’t write a list of the best thrill hobbies in Australia and leave out surfing. Surfing is a way of life in Australia, and you can’t beat the feeling of catching a fresh wave in the glorious sunshine. Surfing makes for a great hobby, and a visit to Australia’s best surf beaches is the perfect way to spend a weekend.
If you’re new to surfing, start slow and work on your technique. With a little practice, you’ll be making those big waves in no time.
3. Mountain biking
Sure, you know how to ride a bike - but have you ever given mountain biking a try? Mountain biking has it all - adrenaline, views and the chance to really work up a sweat. Mountain bikers are spoilt for choice in Australia, with biking hotspots including Blue Derby, Mount Bueller and Nerang National Park.
Mountain biking isn’t for the faint-hearted, but if you want to take up a thrill hobby that gets you out to some of Australia’s most epic destinations, maybe it’s time you gave it a shot.
4. Rock climbing
While mountain biking is a great way to take in some views, some people prefer to explore mountains in other ways. If you can tackle the heights, then rock climbing is the hobby for you. A test of nerve, skill and endurance, it’s no wonder rock climbers soon find themselves addicted to the thrill.
There are a lot of ways you can enjoy rock climbing. From indoor climbing centres to spots like the Glass House Mountains and Wilpena Pounds, you’ll never be short of places to strap on your gear and put your best foot forward.
5. Hiking
Prefer to keep two feet on the ground? Then hiking could just be the activity for you. Don’t be fooled, hiking isn’t just a walk. A good hike can take you miles and miles across incredible landscapes, helping you walk up mountains and cliffs, instead of climbing them.
Check out some of Australia’s best hiking routes and start planning some epic treks across the most stunning trails on earth.
6. Rafting
Rafting is the ultimate thrill-seeking activity. It’s dynamic and fast-paced, and no two experiences are the same. As a group activity, rafting will give you an epic shared experience that will leave you on an amazing high. Rafting gives you the chance to enjoy nature, see striking scenery and have adventures to remember. The sense of achievement you’ll feel when you conquer the rapids is like no other - you’ll be planning your next ride in no time.
You can experience rafting activities all over Australia, with some of the best being Barron Gorge National Park, Tully River and of course, the Yarra River.
7. Bungee jumping
If you want to test your limits, it’s got to be a bungee jump. Bungee jumping isn’t for everyone and it’s actually incredibly hard to do in Australia. Only legal in Queensland, there’s only one place to bungee jump in Australia - Skypark Cairns. While you may not have many locations to choose from, the bungee experience offered in Cairns is absolutely worth it. Launching from 50 metres above the Cairns rainforest, it’s an impressive view and one of the most beautiful bungee spots in the world.
Dare yourself to jump for a thrill you won’t forget!
