Here in the Northern Hemisphere, most of us have stored away our summer clothes for good (unless you live in ridiculous Southern California — last week was very warm.) However, in the Southern Hemisphere, the weather is now very late Spring, which means that beach season is right around the corner. Admittedly, Australia is a bit far for most to go just to enjoy beach weather year-round, but the steadily slowing down economy means that great fares can still be found.

Need some more convincing? Step 1: Take a look out your window. Step 2: Look at this picture:

Noosa Beach in Queensland, Australia

That’s Noosa Beach, in Queensland. Gorgeous, right? Australia doesn’t have too many beaches that face North, also called the Sunshine Coast, and this is one of them. Great swimming and snorkeling year-round.

Or how about this one?

Whitehaven Beach, Australia

Definitely not a place I’d want to spend my winters! Just kidding. Look how clear and inviting that water is. And that sand…I can almost hear the lapping waves.

One last one to help convince yourself you need to take a trip to Australia (take me with you):

Kirra Beach, Queensland

Well hello, beautiful. How have I not met you before? Kirra Beach is now on my bucket list.

Photo: Kevgibbo, kevgibbo, kevwhelen