26 Nov 2015

Finally, the school year is up, your exams are over and you’re more than ready to spend the next few months getting lobster-red on a beach somewhere with the ocean at your feet and sand in your bikini bottoms.

I don’t know about you, but after a solid year of studies, the white sandy beaches and aqua green waters of some tropical location are all I’m dreaming about, and luckily living down under means that most of these destinations are relatively close to home (if not in your backyard for some of you!).

Now that term is finished, you’ve got all the time in the world to jet off somewhere lush for a well-earned study break and there are a bunch of different options depending on what kind of budget you’re working with.

So sit back, relax, grab a mimosa and take a gander at our top picks for your end-of-school holiday.

1. Byron Bay

One of the best end-of-school destinations is much closer to home than you might think, and shouldn’t cost you a fortune to get to.

Northern NSW’s Byron Bay is made for blowing off steam–I mean, hello, it’s one of the biggest Schoolies sites in the country, not to mention home to some of Australia’s best music festivals!

Byron Bay is a wonderfully wacky, colourful and relaxing little beach town that embodies the concept of beach-all-day, party-all-night.

While the beaches are mainly what you’re used to in Australia, their appearance does have a bit of a tropical vibe, and there always packed with other travellers (a.k.a. your new potential friends).

The clubbing scene is also great in Byron, if that’s the way you prefer to unwind!

2. The Gold Coast

Another Schoolies favourite, QLD’s Gold Coast is the best of both words–an urban city centre right on the sandy coast of Australia.

Basically, that means it has everything you could ever need–beaches, clubs, bars, restaurants, accommodation of all kinds and price ranges, and plenty of shopping if you’re in dire need of some retail therapy.

If you want somewhere youthful where you can meet lots of like-minded folk who just wanna spend their days on the sand and their nights on the dancefloor, then the Gold Coast is just the place for you, my friend!

3. The Whitsundays

If the sole purpose of your school/uni holidays is relaxation, then look no further than the Whitsundays off the coast of QLD.

Smack bang in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef, there is so much to do on these islands, and you can choose to partake in all or none of them depending on how adventurous/lazy you’re feeling.

While not exactly the most party-oriented destination, with some of Australia’s most beautiful scenery both above and below water, the Whitsundays has plenty going on to take your mind of the drudgery of everyday life.

4. Bali

As far as overseas trips go, Bali is probably your best bet if you’re on a budget, but still looking for somewhere beachy to unwind.

Another one the Schoolies tend to enjoy, Bali is the kind of place where you can choose your own adventure, because there’s just so much to see and do.

Live it up on their picturesque beaches, relax by the pool in one of the many ocean resorts, dance hard at the clubs, get food-adventurous and try some of the local delicacies or even go exploring through the country’s cultural landmarks.

Plus, Bali is teeming with other Aussies to share your experiences with. It’s essentially the perfect place to try new things and meet new people.

5. New Caledonia

If you’re looking to feel a little more luxurious without having to travel halfway across the world, New Caledonia is the perfect destination.

You know when you’re day dreaming in class about those ultimate tropical locations–white sand, crystal clear water, exotic fish, coral, the works?

Chances are you’ll be able to find that place in New Caledonia.

If you want to extend your trip a little bit, there are a bunch of cruises that depart from Australia and set their sights on New Caledonia.

So if you want two holidays in one, why not get disgustingly lavish on the high seas, before jumping ship to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of New Cal. I’m already jealous!

6. Vanuatu

If you’ve got a little bit more cash to splash, then why not explore the unique islands of Vanuatu, where your daily activities could range from snorkeling and scuba diving in clear seas, to leisurely paddling in bright blue lagoons, to watching a volcano in-action, to trekking through tropical forests.

While types of accommodation range from budget backpackers to the most luxurious resorts, transportation between the islands can get a little pricey.

Consider exploring Vanuatu on a cruise, so what money you put in, you’ll be able to get back in all-you-can-eat buffets (and who doesn’t love an all-you-can-eat-buffet?).

7. Fiji

A good choice for first-time overseas travellers, Fiji offers many wonders beyond the beautiful beaches. It’s often said the people of Fiji are a wonder in themselves–friendly, happy and generous, which can be great if you don’t have a lot of travelling experience.

A popular tourist destination, Fiji has got it all: culture, food, tradition as well as amazing beaches, resorts and budget accommodation (depending on what kind of holiday you’re after), and great nightlife if you know where to look!

Aussies and travellers of all ages flock to Fiji, so you’ll always be able to find someone to swap stories with over a cocktail and a tropical sunset. Hm? Studying? Never heard of it before.