We have already tried several water sports since the beginning of our adventure (which is nearing the end...), be it surfing, kitesurfing, surf kayaking, sailing and snorkelling. There was at least one more activity we did not want to miss on the Sunshine Coast. And this activity is riding a Jet Ski. Whoever has never tried it before should do it as soon as possible! In Maroochydore, Maroochy River Jet Ski Hire & Tours is a small family business yet one of Australia's most experienced water sports businesses. Their guided jet ski tours are for people of all ages and experience (no license or experience is required for jet ski rentals). Beginners can ride their Sea Doo through the Sunshine Coast hinterland on the beautiful Maroochy River (photo). The more experienced might prefer the thrill of the ultimate jet ski adventure on the Coral Sea. We have tried both and in all cases, it is a barrel of fun. Jet skiing allows you to explore the Sunshine Coast from a whole different angle. Maroochy River Jet Ski Hire & Tours will soon offer the Flyboard, a new insane activity! Unfortunately, we will not be able to attend this premier, the official launch which will be held on February 2. Is there anyone who would be kind enough to cover the event for iPhoneography Oz?

Have you tried Jet Ski or Flyboard before? What is your best Jet Ski memory? Your worst? Tell us your stories in the comments below!

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of Maroochy River Jet Ski Hire & Tours.

We have been waiting for weeks and months to have an introduction to kitesurfing (or kiteboarding), this water sport is halfway between surfing and windsurfing. It is now something that we can tick off our bucket list after our recent return to Noosa on the Sunshine Coast, where we left in February (it also means that our adventure is coming to an end). But let's focus on the topic of the day! We had our first kitesurfing lesson with the experienced instructors of the Adventure Sports Kitesurfing School in Noosa (which is also a kite shop). This first lesson is an introduction to kiteboarding in order to learn the behaviour of the power kite, thus there is no board at this stage. But let us tell you something: even without the kiteboard, the sensations are excellent on the water when you start feeling the power of the wind (which can easily have you airborne in no time at all). The lesson takes place on a huge lake nearby which offers ideal conditions for kitesurfing (and the water is so warm!). Depending on your budget, a one on one lesson is preferable rather than a group lesson. With this option you have the kite for the entire lesson and do not have to wait your turn. Honestly, we just want more and cannot wait for our next session of kitesurfing training!

Have you heard about kitesurfing before? Which are the extreme sports that you want to try? What would you recommend to a beginner who wants to learn how to kitesurf? Let us know in the comments below!

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of Adventure Sports.

We have often talked about surfing on the blog (it was only yesterday that we mentioned our last surf lesson). Today we join 1770 Liquid Adventures to surf waves... on a kayak. A whole heap of great fun, that is what surf kayaking is! The tour also includes a more relaxed pace of cruising through the beautiful waterways of Seventeen Seventy and complimentary drinks and snacks on a wild secluded beach. 1770 Liquid Adventures offers a few different tours, but we highly recommend the Sunset Kayak Tour, which finishes by sea kayaking facing an amazing sunset (photo). Actually, it is the only place on the east coast of Australia, where you can actually watch an ocean sunset from a kayak! For a fleeting moment, we travel back in time imagining just what James Cook saw when he discovered Queensland...

Have you ever surfed on a kayak? What are the activities you have taken part in Seventeen Seventy? What would you recommend to do or see in the area? Let us know in the comments below!

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of 1770 Liquid Adventures.

Agnes Water, in addition to being a quiet and charming seaside community, is the most northern surf beach in Queensland. And as we have come from the north (Cairns), we could not pass up the opportunity to jump in the water and get back on a surfboard again (there are fewer dangerous jellyfish here). The conditions are ideal: beautiful weather, deserted beach and perfect waves to learn how to surf. So we head to Reef 2 Beach surf school for a 3 hours surfing lesson. The least we can say is that beach and surf culture are in the air! The look, the style, the cut, all leat to thinking that our instructors, real surf enthusiasts, are direct descendants of Patrick Swayze in the movie Point Break. From here, we would like to apologize to the other surf schools who introduced us to surfing in Australia, but Reef 2 Beach is by far our best surf experience (this is also the last, as our adventures are coming to an end). This is certainly the cheapest surf school in Australia too: $17 to learn to surf is somehow hard to beat. It is no wonder that Reef 2 Beach's reputation is the size of the continent. Someone in Perth (which is on the complete opposite side of Australia from Agnes Water) recommended the place to us! Book with your eyes closed, you will not regret it and you will have a great time!

What do you think? Did you book a surf lesson while in Australia? Which surf school would you recommend? Let us know in the comments below!

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of Reef 2 Beach.

We have to admit that British explorer James Cook had a job that was not too bad at all. Not only was he behind the discovery of Australia, but during his northward journey along the east coast that followed, he also became the first "tourist" to set foot in Queensland. On this occasion, Cook discovered a treasure (for the eyes at least). It is partly thanks to James that today, we can explore the charming twin seaside communities of Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy (named after Lieutenant - not Captain yet - James Cook who came ashore on 24 May 1770). We are about a hundred kilometres north of Bundaberg. Being here, it would be apt to read Captain Cook's Journal During the First Voyage Round the World. The setting is perfect. The Great Barrier Reef is off the coast. The beach in front of us is rather picturesque and particularly appreciated by surfers (Agnes Water is the most northern surf beach on the East Coast of Australia). The climate is perfect today (as well as most of the year with nearly 300 days of sunshine). This location certainly has a high tourism potential. However, there is no commercialization and the area's natural beauty has been preserved, just like at Mission Beach. Ah, it feels so good being here! Only the sound of helicopters landing at nearby luxury villas might disturb our tranquility. We heard through the local grapevine that the passengers are Quiksilver and Billabong's founders who own a holiday home in the area. No matter who they really are, we must be right in thinking that Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy are, in their own way, a dream destination.

What do you think? Have you ever been to Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy? What is your dream destination? Let us know in the comments below!

Before arriving in Airlie Beach, we have been told various things about the place that sounded comparable to some of the bad aspects of Cairns and the Gold Coast. "Consumerist town" and "the kind of place where people like to party non-stop" were just a couple of opinions that we have heard. That is the reason why sailing the Whitsunday Islands quickly became the best and most appealing option for us. As a result we joined Explore Whitsundays on a cruise around this unique paradise, between Whitsunday Island and the many others islands of the archipelago. We spent two days sailing on Siska, a yacht that won the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. Two days of sun and white sand (Whitehaven Beach is probably one of the most beautiful beaches in the world). Two days snorkelling in the beautiful turquoise water, appreciating the amazing ecosystem of the Great Barrier Reef (there are so many tropical fish to be seen). Two magical days exploring peaceful and hidden inlets. Life can be tough sometimes! Eventually, we returned to Airlie Beach where we spent a bit of time in town and found the place quite pleasant with its shops and accommodation, its lagoon and its relaxed atmosphere, a far cry from what we were expecting. All that to say that any travel to Australia should always include a cruise in the Whitsundays. However, be well informed before booking the cheapest cruise or you might find yourself on a crowded boat with little room to sleep.

What do you think? Have you been on a cruise in the Whitsundays? Which islands of the Whitsundays would you recommend to go? Let us know in the comments below!

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of Explore Whitsundays.

The Great Barrier Reef and Tropical North Queensland beaches are beautiful. One can hardly resist going for a swim, especially when it is hot and humid. However, the experience would be much more pleasant if we did not have to be constantly on our guard. But this is for good reason! The Coral Sea is home to many types of jellyfish including the dangerous box jellyfish (or stinger), which is among the world's most venomous creatures. Its stings are extremely painful and often deadly to humans. The problem with this killer jellyfish (not exclusive to Australia) is that we can hardly detect it because it is almost transparent. But all is not lost if you still want to dive or snorkel the reef. You need to know that fatalities are not so common and, in the case of stings, treatments are available (starting by applying generous amounts of vinegar made ​​available to the public on many beaches). There are also stinger suits sold in stores or provided by tour operators. Admittedly, this is far from sexy, but we are not competing at the election of Miss Universe. On some beaches, like in Port Douglas, swimming enclosure operate during jellyfish season in the summer months. Finally, let us give you some friendly advice, always take the time to ask a local or better yet a lifeguard before venturing into the unknown where jellyfish live.

Have you made any dangerous wildlife encounters in Australia? What is the most venomous animal you came accross while travelling? Share your experiences in the comments below!

In Australia, WAGS might not have exactly the same meaning as what most of you might think. If for you, WAGS means Wives and Girlfriends (the way it is used by the media to describe the wives and girlfriends of professional athletes, who are generally very pretty girls), then you are about to be enlightened with Wednesday Afternoon Go Sailing. And no, you will not see any Australian cricket WAGS on iPhoneography Oz... contrary to this Daily Telegraph gallery!). So every Wednesday afternoon (weather permitting), Australian Yacht Clubs' members volunteer a little bit of their time and their yacht to take guests out sailing. The purpose? Socializing and having a good time. We experienced this activity in Port Douglas with the local Yacht Club's members. It is a very cheap way to cruise along Australia coastline. Depending on your skipper, the cruise might even turn into a free sailing lesson. In theory, it does not cost you anything. But in fact, when you arrive at the Yacht Club, it is highly recommended to make yourself comfortable and have a drink at the bar. You need to write down your name on a form as well to let the skippers know about your intention of sailing. Please note that once registered, there is no guarantee that you will be chosen to join a sailboat. In the end, the skippers choose their own "crew", and as part of the WAGS culture they do not like free loaders! Having a beer or two are a few well spent dollars that are going to boost your fund of good will (and your eligibility).

What do you think? Do you have other Australian tips to share? What was your best experience on Australian oceans? Leave your comments below!

Exmouth is a small coastal town of 2,500 inhabitants located at the north end of the Ningaloo Coast. This small Western Australian town is a magnet for tourists from all around the world each year between April and July when they come to swim with the whale sharks. Its beaches and snorkeling sites are easily accessible throughout the year. Beyond the underwater wonders of the Ningaloo, note that Exmouth is a few minutes drive away from the grandiose landscape of the Cape Range National Park. Exmouth is also a communication base for the U.S. and Australian Navy and has been since the 60s. Better to have your own vehicle to explore the surroundings. Nature lovers are in heaven!

Coral Bay is a marine paradise on the Ningaloo Coast. With its coral reefs and underwater species that roam the seabed a few hundred metres away from the coast, it is the ideal place to practice snorkeling. Rather than go blindly, you can join a tour organized by local tour operators such as Coral Bay Ecotours whose Marine Ecotour is an activity not to be missed (and we have not missed it!). Slip into your wetsuit, mask and snorkel and throw yourself into the water once your guides give you the green light. The coral reef is amazing. Approach and see hundreds of fish and turtles that evolve in their natural environment, it is something really magical. But this is nothing compared to the experience that awaits you later on this tour when you come to swim with the largest ray on Earth: the manta ray. Unlike whale sharks, manta rays are present on the reef all year round. Beyond this unique experience, this adventure lasts for a period of five to six hours and also includes the loan of all equipment, a hearty snack and refreshments. You will be blown away!

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of Coral Bay Ecotours.

Located at the southern end of the Ningaloo Coast, Coral Bay and looks like a huge camping ground. This small-scale community is really relaxed. It is also one of Western Australia's premier family holiday destinations. One can walk easily around town and the schedule type of each visitor alternates between lazing on the magnificent pristine white beach of the bay, snorkelling around the coral reef or taking part in the various activities offered by local tour operators. We loved it and we ended up staying two days longer than originally planned.

Here is a new found love of exceptional beauty! Ningaloo Coast, recognized as one of the last great ocean paradises, stretches 300 kilometers between Shark Bay and Exmouth. From the shore, the banks offer dreamy scenery. Under water, where the colour could not be more perfect (photo), there are a multitude of marine species including barracudas, dolphins, dugongs, manta rays, sharks and turtles. The region is also famous for hosting 300-500 whale sharks each year, the largest fish in the world. Between March and July, visitors from around the world flock to the Ningaloo Coast for the experience of a lifetime: a swim with whale sharks. This is the only place in the world where these giants of the sea are easily accessible and are returning in large numbers near the coast with the precision of a Swiss watch. Unfortunately we missed it because we were in the area out of season. Finally, the Ningaloo Coast is also famous for its world class reef composed of not less than 300 coral species, over 700 species of reef fish (including Nemo), about 650 species of molluscs, nearly 600 species of crustaceans and more than 1000 species of seaweed. A mask and snorkel are enough to observe all this at only a hundred metres away from the shore! For all these reasons, the Ningaloo Coast in 2011 became the 19th Australian site to be inscribed on the World Heritage List of UNESCO.

Penguin Island is nestled in a paradise location in the southern suburbs of Perth, 45 minutes away from the central business district and just five minutes off the coast of Rockingham (where we swam with wild dolphins). As its name suggests, the local star is the little penguin. It is the same species we came across on Philip Island. Other than that Penguin Island is also the ideal place to enjoy wildlife, activities and breathtaking scenery of the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. We also took part in a very popular cruise that sails the bay for 45 minutes. This is a unique opportunity to approach sea lions. During our cruise we even witnessed a rare spectacle when these mammals amused themselves by jumping in the waves with dolphins. On the way back, the boat drops the passengers off at Penguin Island where it is very easy to spend a full day as it is so beautiful and pleasant. Laze the day away in paradise!

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of Rockingham Wild Encounters.

Found inside the Francois Peron National Park many traces of gypsum claypans, better known as the birridas which were landlocked saline lakes when sea levels were much higher than at present. In some places, such as Big Lagoon (photo), the rise in sea level has however allowed the formation of shallow inland bays. The turquoise water makes the place beautiful. The best way to explore the area is probably a kayak ride. With a little more budget, you can also take to the air, and opt for a scenic flight over the park and Shark Bay departing from Denham Airport.

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of Department of Environment and Conservation (Western Australia).

The City of Stirling is located in the heart of the Sunset Coast, only 20 minutes away from Perth central business district. There, Scarborough Beach is probably one of the best beaches around Perth. It offers all the advantages of the perfect beach. It is equipped with changing rooms including showers and toilets. There are also picnic areas with barbecues and children's playgrounds (caution snakes!). Once you are done with sunbathing and surfing, you can visit one of the many bars and cafes overlooking the ocean. Ideal to enjoy the sunsets! Scarborough is also known to have a wide range of accommodation. From a room in a hostel to five-star apartments, you will find the right option to suit your budget. Finally, during the warmest months of the year, you can enjoy live performances and events at the only amphitheatre on the beach in Western Australia.

The Sunset Coast is the ultimate destination for Perth's inhabitants looking for a trip to the beach. This coastal strip extends about fifty kilometres from Cottesloe, north of Fremantle, up to Joondalup. You have a very wide choice. The beaches are clean and are generally not crowded. Most of them have children's playgrounds and barbecues. A bike path runs along the coastline. A must for a bike ride or a jog with magnificent views of the Indian Ocean. By late afternoon, locals swap their work clothes for their wetsuit and go for a surf. The coast also offers excellent views to admire the sunset. Did you have any doubt about the Australian lifestyle?

Perth central business district is located on the banks of the Swan River, which gave its name to the Swan Valley, famous for its wines and fresh local produce. It really divides the city in two. Its inhabitants are defined as living "south of the river" or "north of the river". The fact is that the waters of the Swan provide a unique opportunity to escape from the city either by kayak or sailboat. The river is surrounded by many parks, ideal for a picnic or a nap with an amazing view of Perth skyline. Many cruise options are available departing from Barrack Square. In need of an adrenaline rush? Water sports such as jet skiing, windsurfing and parasailing are also available. Stunning urban backdrop included free of charge!

Margaret River is a popular destination in Western Australia. Internationally recognized for its majestic scenery and exceptional waves for surfers, the area is also famous for its local products including its white wines. It hosts many great wineries, some of which are also known for their restaurants. This is the case with Leeuwin Estate. This huge property produces excellent Chardonnay. The best wines of each vintage are grouped under the label "Art Series". The bottles are identified by paintings commissioned from contemporary Australian artists. Leeuwin Estate is also known for its restaurant located in a picturesque setting. Tempted by the "Wine and Food Flights", a fine selection of four appetizers associated with prestigious wines, is to celebrate the art of living well in true Leeuwin Estate style. Honoring the art in various forms, Leeuwin Estate hosts a series of annual concerts headlined by some of planet's biggest names such as Ray Charles and Diana Ross. Thousands of people flock from far and wide to attend the exclusive events. Tours and tastings are also offered to the public all year long.

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of Leeuwin Estate.

Heading west from Ceduna, it is getting close to the end of South Australia and we are approaching the drive through the desert - Nullarbor Plain - which will be discussed in coming days. At Penong, a dirt road of about twenty kilometres heads south to the legendary Cactus Beach. Surfers from around the world come to test their skills on the waves considered among the best in Australia. On the way, the track passes through magnificent scenery, white sand dunes which are reflected in the waters of a salt lake. In good weather, the water color alternates between blue and pink. This is a remote place where you do not cross paths with too many people in winter, but a must see!

Landscapes of the Eyre Peninsula are rather wild, untouched and rugged. The region is rich in natural treasures. Among them is the Coffin Bay National Park which is located about forty kilometres west of Port Lincoln. This park hosts the best that the peninsula to offer: abundant wildlife, breathtaking coastal scenery, spectacular cliffs, endless white sand dunes, waves for surfers and paradise beaches in sheltered bays. To top all of this off we were blessed by the most incredible moment when a pod of thirty or more dolphins came to play in the waves breaking really close to the shoreline. An unforgettable sight! In hindsight, we regret not diving into the water to swim with them but the cold temperature of the water got the better of us. One of our less courageous moments! Having created a blog with the theme of photographs taken from an iPhone unfortunately does not do this photo justice but if you squint your eyes and look really closely, you can just see a few fins in the waves!