Looking to escape the rigors of high school and celebrate the end of 12+ years of hard work? Look no further than Schoolies, the ultimate way to shake off your academic burdens and have the time of your life. To help with your planning, we've put together a list of the best Schoolies and Leavers destinations and accommodation options in Australia that you simply can't miss.

Since its inception in the 1980’s, Schoolies has developed into something more than just a spectacular way to say goodbye to your senior year of high school, it has become a genuine rite of passage and unarguably the best way to usher in the era of adulthood. 

Celebrated over the 3 big weeks commencing when high school leavers hang up their school uniforms for good, Schoolies sees graduates congregate to enjoy epic events and unforgettable parties at holiday hotspots across Australia and abroad. 
Traditionally Week 1 of the Schoolies festival reigns as the rowdiest, with many of the country’s favourite haunts experiencing the highest volumes of graduates and consequently the largest parties during this time.

During the festival, there are a broad array of different destinations providing official Schoolies accommodation and experiences, however, and so it is still certainly possible to tailor the perfect week away for you and your tribe, with getaways that range right from mild to wild being available. This means there is absolutely no good reason why anyone should miss out on the once-in-a-lifetime Schoolies experience that many affectionately reflect on as being the best week of their life.

As different destinations truly do offer vastly different Schoolies experiences, deciphering where will provide the perfect party for you can be a challenge. Recognising this, our team of experienced Schoolies experts at Tribe Travel have taken the time to compile a list of the crowd favourites across Australia and abroad, highlighting the specific reasons why they are so.

We have broken these destinations down, state by state, also including destinations for the Western Australian Schoolies equivalent of Leavers, as well as the hottest international destinations worthy of your consideration.

What is Leavers?
Leavers is Western Australia’s answer to Schoolies. The same in essence and energy, only with a different name tag, Leavers also brings graduates from across the state together to celebrate the finishing of School for good! Leavers is celebrated across the whole of W.A, and once again, different destinations deliver very different experiences. So, to assist you with tracking down your perfect Leavers location, keep reading below!

Byron Bay Schoolies 
Arguably New South Wales’s most vibrant beach town, Byron Bay has a reputation that precedes it right around the globe and Schoolies Byron Bay is no different. A staple on any east coast backpacker itinerary, this bustling little beach town boasts a culture that is as rich and enticing as its beautiful beaches, world-class waves, and heavenly hinterland. 

In town, the local’s energy is second to none and their relaxed, happy-go-lucky outlook on life is undeniably infectious, something that sets the scene stupendously for some good Schoolies craic. The drink and dining scene is sensational, with a myriad of delectable ripe for your exploring during your stay. And did we mention that Byron knows how to throw a Schoolies party?

Although Byron Bay is a town of only 10,000 locals, it attracts some 2 million plus tourists each year. No stranger to showing tourists a good time, it is safe to say that Byron Bay is well practised and well prepared to show Schoolies the week of their lives. The town’s music scene absolutely slaps, with Byron being home to many major festivals throughout the year, including Splendour in the Grass, Falls Festival and the Byron Bay Blues Festival, just to name a few. The streets are alive with local and international performing artists alike and much of the town is extremely Schoolies friendly. And what exactly does this mean? 

This means that the majority of the town’s awesome accommodation options open up as Schoolies accommodation during the Schoolies festival. Many of the night venues have special Schoolies party events and, as per usual, there are daily banging beach parties where you and your tribe can thrive ‘til sunrise. Further, given the compact nature of the town, most Byron Bay Schoolies accommodation and events are within walking distance to each other, working to both concentrate the party and keep your tribe close by, creating an experience that is truly remarkable. 

Testament to the quality of the Schoolies experience here, despite much of the town’s impressive accommodation infrastructure opening up as Schoolies accommodation, Byron Bay Schoolies accommodation continues to sell out, year after year. So, if the ultimate amalgamation of chill beach vibes and vibrant Schoolies energy is what you seek, then don’t wait, book Schoolies Byron Bay with Tribe Travel today!

Schoolies Terrigal
Considering that Terrigal sits just 90 minutes north of the nation’s largest city, Sydney, the overall tranquillity of this stunning seaside escape is astounding. The perfect place to recharge your batteries, Terrigal brings together fresh ocean air, friendly locals and limitless sunshine across a setting that boasts splendorous beaches, epic aquatic activities and a buzzy Schoolies energy.

Stupendously serene, Terrigal Schoolies is a heaven on Earth. Here, your days will be well spent making the most of the wonderful waves, catching some rays, and exploring the lake and wonderful bays with some fishing, hiking and swimming adventures. And, by nightfall, you can thrive with your tribe throughout the many delectable drink and dining venues, bustling private Schoolies beach parties and numerous seaside Schoolies accommodations this stunning seaside town has on offer. 

Perfect for graduates eager to escape the big smoke of the city, this happening little haunt is an epic option for anyone whose ideal Schoolies experience involves maximise their days amidst a playground of natural delights and their nights making the most of the bustling Schoolies energy that this place radiates during the Schoolies festival.

Schoolies Batemans Bay
Popular with Sydney Schoolies and crowds from Canberra alike, Batemans Bay is another seaside spectacular that is every inch worthy of this top Schoolies destination list. 

Breathtakingly beautiful, this buzzing little beach town offers an awesome mix of seaside serenity and electric Schoolies energy, making it ideal for any Schoolies reveller keen for the best of both worlds. 

Being a small community of only 5,000-odd people, Batemans Bay Schoolies offers a more intimate experience where it is easier to enjoy the tribe you arrive with whilst making new friends with the faces that become familiar at the daily beach parties that erupt during the best of the Batemans Bay Schoolies festival. The smaller size of the town concentrates the Schoolies crowd, intensifying the party and amazing Schoolies energy, without making it too much to manage. 

Schoolies Batemans Bay makes it absolutely impossible not to wholly switch gears into ultimate holiday mode. If a scenic seaside escape where it is impossible not to unwind is what you seek, then Schoolies Batemans Bay is the place for you! 

Schoolies Gerroa
Sitting pretty where the stunning shores of the Crooked River meet the blissful Seven Mile Beach, Gerroa is a true water baby wonderland. Offering the ultimate in avenues to get wet, whether surfing or snorkelling, swimming, sailing or scuba diving, fishing, kayaking or kite surfing is your thing, Gerroa has you covered. 

Whilst the pristine local naturescape and intimate, small-town vibes make unwinding here during your Gerroa Schoolies getaway a cinch, it doesn’t come at the cost of a good Schoolies party. Popular with tribes from the nearby Wollongong, as well as some stragglers from Sydney and Canberra who seek a larger slice of serenity, this small little getaway still bustles with an up-and-about Schoolies energy that promises to keep you informed that you are celebrating Schoolies after all! 

Schoolies Port Macquarie
The picture-perfect Port Macquarie is another New South Wales Schoolies hotspot that is both popular and well-deserving of its place on this best Schoolies destinations list.

Offering a bigger and bolder experience than that at Schoolies Gerroa or Schoolies Batemans Bay, but something less intense than what you will find at the likes of Schoolies Byron Bay or the gargantuan Schoolies Gold Coast, Schoolies Port Macquarie is in the ‘Goldilocks Zone’, being just right for those seeking a Schoolies party somewhere in the middle.

With the entire Port Macquarie region being a picturesque playground of stunning sites to see and exciting outdoor activities, it is accustomed to entertaining crowds from near and far. This, of course, comes with better tourism infrastructure and an enhanced ability to cater to larger crowds and therefore a larger Schoolies experience. Along with many impressive Schoolies accommodation options, Port Macquarie also enjoys easy access to a plethora of adrenaline-packed activities that are sure to make your Schoolies experience truly unforgettable, including wakeboarding and water skiing, paintball and skydiving, just to name a few.

During your Port Macquarie Schoolies stay, your days will be well spent relaxing into the majesty of the local surrounds, taking advantage of all the natural beauty and activities on offer along the beautiful banks of the Hastings River, throughout the heavenly hinterland and along the stunning shores of the breathtaking local beaches. Another paradise for anyone aquatically inclined who is eager to enjoy a dialled-up dose of nature without making any compromise on a Schoolies-scale party - does Schoolies Port Macquarie sound like the perfect party for you?

Schoolies Coffs Harbour
Another Schoolies big shot that sits between Sydney and Byron Bay on New South Wales’ north coast is Schoolies Coffs Harbour. Being a lush coastal locale that abounds with natural beauty, and a sizable hub that is well serviced by infrastructure and activities to keep you entertained during your Schoolies escape, makes Coffs Harbour another favourite place for crowds to congregate, especially graduates from the surrounding reaches of the northern coast. Home to a population of nearly 80,000 people, Coffs offers plenty in the way of delectable drink and dining options, commendable adventure activities and exciting Schoolies accommodation options. And during the Schoolies festival, the local beaches thrive as alive as anywhere with a salacious Schoolies energy that you’re sure to never forget. Perfect again for those seeking somewhere in “The Goldilocks Zone’ and for those keen to stay more local with their Tribe whilst still being part of a party to be proud of - Schoolies Coffs Harbour!

Schoolies Gold Coast
First up, for Schoolies Queensland, the city that started it all back in the 80s and THE Schoolies celebration of the nation, Schoolies Gold Coast.

Famed for enticing crowds from near and far some 20,000 strong, this is a celebration of truly gargantuan proportions and an event that you are certain to never forget! Not for the faint of heart, if you firmly feel that bigger is better then Schoolies Gold Coast is the place for you.

The Gold Coast is a mecca for A-grade tourism generally. Its stunning beaches, fabulous shopping, thrilling theme parks and verdant hinterland make it an amazing place to visit for any occasion, as does its stupendous drink and dining options and naughty nightlife scene. Invite an extra 20,000 high school graduates to town with the sole intention of having the best week of their lives, and you better believe you are in for something truly monumental.

Although spectacular in scale, Schoolies Gold Coast is not entirely unruly, however, with the festival here being serviced and supported by a slew of government-run events, activities and initiatives that work to ensure everyone remains safe, supported and well-entertained throughout their Schoolies Gold Coast getaway. 

During Week 1 of Gold Coast Schoolies, the Queensland Government puts on the nightly beach parties for free in a fenced-off, Schoolies-only area known as ‘The Schoolies Hub’. Situated right at the top of Cavill Ave on the stunning shores of Surfers Paradise Beach, these banging beach bashes rage from 7 pm - 12 am daily, during which time Schoolies can enjoy an epic lineup of local and international acts who bring the noise across 2 huge stages. The Schoolies Hub is accessible only to Schoolies who have registered for an official ‘Safer Schoolies Wristband’ with it being officially an alcohol-free event. In addition to the free Schoolies beach party, there are a slew of other theme parties, pool parties and under-18’s nightclub events that are organised around the city solely for registered Schoolies to enjoy during their stay. 

In addition to all the Gold Coast Schoolies parties the town puts on, there are also initiatives to ensure that everyone remains safe throughout their wild week away. Known as ‘The Safer Schoolies Response’, during the Schoolies festival there is an increased presence of public services to ensure everything runs smoothly, that everyone stays safe and to offer increased emotional support during what is typically a very large week away. This includes the remarkable Red Frogs who are always out in force, offering weeklong support with everything from walking you home should you find yourself alone, to cooking you breakfast, cleaning your apartment and offering an understanding ear for you to talk through any post-school problems you may experience during your big week away. And what’s better is that all of these services are completely free to all Schoolies festival-goers with a Safer Schoolies wristband. Speak with Tribe Travel today about organising your official Schoolies I.D, wristbands, lanyards and Gold Coast Schoolies accommodation so you don’t miss out!

Sunshine Coast Schoolies
Shimmy up the coast a couple of hours and you will find the next entrant on our Schoolies highlights list - The stunning Sunshine Coast.

Sticking to the stereotypes of what sets it apart from The Gold Coast generally, Schoolies Sunshine Coast sails at a slightly slower, more serene pace than its salacious southern counterpart. Despite this, however, it makes absolutely no compromise on great outdoor adventures, magical markets, beautiful beaches and, of course, endless sunshine! Brimming with a long line-up of soul-soothing activities guaranteed to satiate the adventure appetite of even the most discerning Schoolies, Schoolies Sunshine Coast is truly something special. 

Eastside you have well over 60 kilometres of some of Australia’s most pristine coastline to explore and adventure during your Schoolies stay. Whether it’s surfing, swimming, sailing or sunbaking, jet skiing, kitesurfing, paragliding or paddleboarding that floats your boat, you’re assured to find the perfect conditions to enjoy it somewhere along the Sunshine Coast’s stunning shores.

When you head west during your Schoolies Sunshine Coast week away, things just keep getting better. The Sunshine Coast enjoys easy access to one of the lushest hinterlands in Australia. Stupendously beautiful, here you will find countless miles of stunning trails to explore, including hikes to magnificent views atop the gorgeous Glass House Mountains for the particularly adventurous. There are also breathtaking waterfalls and a heartwarming local culture that celebrates locally crafted food, fun and fineries for you to explore. Whilst out and about here, be sure not to miss Montville and Maleny’s quirky main streets, and definitely do not leave without visiting Maleny’s famous ‘Fromagerie’. Further to all the sensational shops here, you will also find many frequent markets throughout the coast that you must meander during your stay. 

In addition to splendid scenery, The Sunshine Coast also boasts an incredibly chill local vibe along its many different townships that is sure to set the scene for your Schoolies experiences perfectly. Famous for its laid-back vibe in general, if you are looking to relax, then The Sunshine Coast is undoubtedly the place for you. Caloundra in the South offers particularly easy access to Brisbane and Bribie Island along with its hip Schoolies spirit and sensational water sports setting at the mouth of the Pumicestone Passage. Central on The Sunshine Coast you have the CBD hub of Maroochydore and Mooloolaba where you enjoy the easiest access to all areas of the coast, as well as awesome facilities such as the Sunshine Plaza Shopping Centre, The Wharf entertainment Precinct and the bustling Ocean Street which generally offers The Coasts mosts happening nightlife scene. And finally, at the Northern end of all the action, you have what is arguably The Coast’s heaviest hitter on the tourism front, and the next entrant on our list, none other than Noosa.

Noosa Schoolies
Noosa is the crown jewel in The Sunshine Coast’s tourism scene. It is another non-negotiable on any East-coast backpacker itinerary, and again, when we break it down, it is easy to see why!

Much like the rest of the Sunshine Coast, Noosa is stupendously beautiful. It offers A-grade beaches, epic surf breaks and a brilliant national park that is alive with impressive native Australian wildlife and awesome hiking trails. Throughout these impressive hiking trails at Noosa National Park and from the many epic lookouts, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for marine favourites such as migrating whales, dolphins and turtles, as well many onshore favourites like koalas, possums and short-nosed bandicoots. And did we mention this is only a 10-minute walk from the centre of town!

In addition to the natural highlights, Noosa is also home to many of The Coast’s premier dining destinations. The main drag of Hasting’s Street is as alive with renowned restaurants as it is with sensational Schoolies energy, amazing boutique shopping and awesome music and nightlife avenues that slap 7 days a week! Noosa Junction offers a similarly impressive lineup of delicious drink, dining and disco avenues all conveniently concentrated into one happy place, and the nearby Eumundi Markets is the perfect day-time ‘do not miss’ that boasts some 600+ stalls selling delicious local food, art and entertainment. 

In addition to all of these spectacular draws Noosa enjoys on the mainland, Schoolies Noosa also offers easy enough access to the World Heritage Listed Fraser Island. The world’s largest sand island, Fraser is exquisite in so many ways and something that should be on everyone's bucket list. Its breathtaking beach drives, the mind-blowing Lake Mackenzie, The Champagne Pools and its exciting 4x4 tracks make it an insanely exciting day out, and there are several local tour companies offering worry-free day trips from Noosa, making it a cinch for you to experience it all during your Noosa Schoolies week away. 

Further to all the excitement, Noosa also boasts an exceptional array of Schoolies accommodation options accustomed to serving the 2 million-plus tourists that visit here each year. With everything from boutique retreats to catered resorts, you are certain to find a place that is perfect for you, should you decide that Schoolies Noosa is the place for you!

Airlie Beach Schoolies
Continue the adventure north and you will find the next exciting destination on our best Schoolies locations list - Airlie Beach Schoolies. Being the official gateway to the magical Whitsundays Islands, Airlie is another town that is both well worthy of its spot on this list and well accustomed to entertaining tourists from around the globe. 

Home to a population of fewer than 13,000 people, yet accustomed to attracting more than 500,000 tourists annually, Airlie is another seaside escape that is exceptionally well practised at showing tourists (read Schoolies) a good time. Similar to Schoolies Byron Bay, Airlie’s small size makes Schoolies Airlie Beach a concentrated affair that feels more intense than the numbers might suggest. The majority of the town’s Schoolies accommodation options are within walking distance, many of the Schoolies events are concentrated in town and even when you are out exploring the islands, you are sure to be surrounded by other fun-loving teens just looking to let their hair down and live life large. 

Being the gateway to one of Australia’s most famous archipelagos, one of the most beautiful beaches on EARTH and to the bustling heart of the largest reef ecosystem in the world, The Great Barrier Reef, you know you are in for some super special aquatic adventures during your Airlie Beach Schoolies retreat here. The sailing, snorkel and scuba diving avenues are superb, as the coral reef, marine life and water visibility are out of this world. Furthermore, your avenues for adrenaline atop the water are also outstanding, with options like jet-skiing, parasailing and skydiving also being very easy for Schoolies to track down. 

A crowd favourite for North-Queensland Schoolies, if you are headed to Schoolies Airlie Beach, you’d best strap yourself in for one hell of a party!

Magnetic Island Schoolies
Sail another 250-odd-kilometres up the exquisite east coast and you will soon discover the next diamond on our top Schoolies destinations list - Magnetic Island. 

A crowd favourite for teens from Townsville for more reasons than just the fact that it sits just a lazy ferry ride off its coast, Maggie has a lot to offer. Boasting 320 days of sunshine each year, this stunning island escape is teeming with palm tree lined beaches, epic aquatic adventures, sublime hikes and lookouts, awesome history and incredible wildlife encounters. Whilst it is notably less wild than its closest mainland counterpart of Schoolies Airlie Beach, Schoolies Magnetic Island still offers an awesome Schoolies energy and plenty of opportunities for you to thrive with your tribe under the endless sunshine, enjoying the beautiful bays, brilliant snorkelling and many wildlife encounter opportunities. Perfect for Schoolies keen to clock some quality time with their inner tribe whilst enjoying an impeccable landscape alive with outdoor adventures, does Schoolies Magnetic Island sound like the perfect place for you?

Cairns & Lake Tinaroo Schoolies
And last, but certainly not least, on our top Schoolies Queensland spots in Queensland list, we bring to you the lovely locale of Cairns and the tranquil Lake Tinaroo. Famous across the globe for its easy access to both The Great Barrier Reef and the oldest rainforest on Earth, The Daintree Rainforest, Cairns is another entrant that is certain to keep you well entertained throughout your Schoolies stay. 

Each year, the Cairns region attracts over 3 million tourists, meaning it has incredible infrastructure set for you to enjoy during your Schoolies escape. The city centre itself is a bustling bonanza of brilliant nightlife venues, alive with backpackers who flock in droves to make the most of the enlivening energy that exists here year-round. There is an exceptional array of funky restaurants and cafes aching to be explored, many of the city’s exciting accommodation options open as Schoolies accommodation during the Schoolies festival and there are more local tour options than you could poke a piece of coral at. If you live in far-north Queensland or are simply eager to experience somewhere different, then Schoolies Cairns is definitely a solid option worthy of your consideration.

In addition to the lively Cairns Schoolies scene that thrives in the city centre, the nearby Lake Tinaroo also attracts a crowd that is both energetic and mention worthy. Located roughly 90 minutes drive south-west of the city, this beautiful lake area abounds with immense natural beauty and ideal conditions for fresh-water water sports like water-skiing and wakeboarding. Generally attracting crowds some hundreds strong, if an escape that boasts the perfect paradox of sensational serenity and upbeat Schoolies energy is what you seek, or somewhere that won’t blow the budget, then Schoolies Lake Tinaroo is perfect for you!

Victor Harbor Schoolies and the Warland Reserve
Ask anyone where South Australia’s biggest, best and boldest Schoolies party happens and they are certain to say Victor Harbor.

Rocking breathtaking views over the beautiful Encounter Bay from right across the city, the energy in this bustling seaside town come Schoolies time hits a fever pitch of ecstasy and excitement that makes it easy to see why it dominates as the South Australian Schoolies favourite. In addition to the wicked vista the entire town enjoys, there is a stupendous culinary scene that showcases the town's seaside status superbly, the nearby coastline is alive with enthralling marine activities and adventures, there is a rich history for you to explore during your stay and, of course, there is the must not miss ‘Encounter Youth SchooliesFestival’ at the Warland Reserve ready for your enjoyment! 

Warland Reserve’s 3-day long Encounter Youth Schoolies Festival is a music event where graduates can let loose in the safety of a Schoolies-only dry zone. The festival rages in November and its tickets are strictly for Schoolies only. With Schoolies Victor Harbor being the South Australian Schoolies place to be, both this event and the Victor Harbour Schoolies accommodation can sell out. So if this sensational seaside escape sounds just right for you, speak with Tribe Travel today about securing your spot amongst the action.

Peninsula and Rye Schoolies
Reigning as the Morning Peninsula’s preferred Schoolies escape for good reason, Rye is a guaranteed good time and a setting that ensures you will leave feeling reinvigorated and ready to roll into adulthood with gusto. 

Rye is both immensely beautiful, with breathtaking surrounds of blissful beaches and vibrant bushland; and wildly energetic, with large crowds flocking from the nearby Melbourne to basque in its vigour and vivaciousness. The local seascape is superb, with the calm, clear waters of Phillip Bay being the perfect playground for everything aquatic that doesn’t require a wave. The daily sunsets are a stunning daily spectacle to enjoy on a hike or horseback ride. And the township is alive with many cute cafes, bars and restaurants for you to explore with your tribe when it's time to treat your tastebuds. 

What truly makes Rye Schoolies stand out however is the official Rye Schoolies accommodation. Situated right across from Rye Beach, this raucous residence works to create an epicentre for daily beach bashes of epic proportions that are certain to exceed even the wildest Schoolies’ party expectations. Perfect for tribes looking for spectacular serenity and an impeccable Schoolies energy, all without having to venture too far from the big smoke of Melbourne - is Schoolies Rye the escape for you?

Sorrento Schoolies
Nestled on the point of The Mornington Peninsula, between the pumping surf of The Bass Strait and the millpond waters of Phillip Bay, Schoolies Sorrento is all about the sand, surf and sun!  Perfect for the amphibious amongst us, this escape is ideal for those who seek to relax and recharge their batteries in a stupendously serene seascape setting. Whilst Schoolies Sorrento itself isn’t recognised as being so rowdy, its wild neighbour of Schoolies Rye is just 10 kilometres down the road, making it the perfect place for Schoolies who seek the best of both worlds!

Phillip Island Schoolies
Phillip Island is Victoria’s option for a Schoolies island escape. Exquisitely beautiful, relaxed but energetic and alive with some of the most awe-inspiring wildlife encounters in the country, Phillip Island in general is somewhere you must experience at least once in your life.

Home to the Phillip Island Grand Prix track, the town is another destination which is well-practiced at entertaining tourists from around the globe. Its tourist scene is on point, including its delectable drink and dining options which are reason enough alone to entice anyone to visit and the local scenery is simply sublime, boasting splendid serenity at every turn. Furthermore, Phillip Island is famous for its daily little penguin parade, for having the nation’s largest colony of fur seals and for the magnitude of its koala and kangaroo populations. If a bonanza of wonderful wildlife encounters and spectacular seaside experiences speaks to you, then Schoolies Phillip Island should be on your radar. 

Torquay Schoolies
Surf’s up at our next Schoolies hotspot - Schoolies Torquay. The birthplace of Australia’s vibrant surf scene, it is unsurprising that Schoolies here is again all about the splendours of the sea and the breathtaking countryside. 

Rocking a surf culture that is as vivid on the street as it is amidst the waves, Schoolies Torquay is the epitome of what a good Schoolies getaway is all about. The town and surrounds boast a long lineup of ways to remain entertained both on and offshore. The local vibe perpetuates the plan of a post-graduation wind down wonderfully and the crowd is as energetic as anywhere. Attracting Schoolies en masse from both Melbourne and Geelong, this vivacious little town triples in size with the Torquay Schoolies festival and, consequently, the party goes off week-long! With the normal population of Torquay sitting somewhere north of 22,000 people, this should give you a solid insight into what you should expect during your Torquay Schoolies escape!

In addition to thriving amidst the epic Schoolies party scene during your stay, be sure to check out the general highlights of the city also. Whether you surf or not, The Australian Surf History Museum is an absolute no-brainer. There are many miles of epic coastal hikes that offer sensational views over the ocean and intimate access to beautiful secluded bays. And, if you fancy watching some of the big-guns strut their stuff on a board, the famous Bells Beach is just 10 kilometres away. Further to all of these local highlights, Torquay is also the official gateway to the world-famous Great Ocean Road… which leads us to the next destinations on our Schoolies list.

Anglesea Schoolies
Cruise some 20-odd kilometres along The Great Ocean Road from Schoolies Torquay and you will find the majestic seaside town of Anglesea. A popular stop for traversers of what is one of the world’s most famous roads for good reason, this terrific little town offers incredibly impressive value for somewhere with a local population of fewer than 3,000 people. Given its close proximity, Schoolies Anglesea offers similar coastal and landscape highlights as its big brother Schoolies Torquay down the road, including sensational surf, wild hikes and stunning lookouts that shout a deafening serenity to anyone who takes the time to lose themselves in their splendour. 

Another option that is perfect for tribes who would like a less chaotic day-to-day Schoolies experience, whilst still being close enough to the action to let their hair down when they please, and also for those who miss out on Torquay Schoolies accommodation, Schoolies Anglesea!

Lorne Schoolies
Another lush locale located along the exquisite Great Ocean Road is the lavish little Lorne! Smaller still than its aforementioned neighbours, yet equally as abundant with outdoor entertainment options, Schoolies Lorne offers a special Schoolies experience that is tough to top. 

What sets Lorne apart from its nearby coastal counterparts is all the action at its official Schoolies accommodation at Mantra. Sitting pretty by the stunning seascape of The Great Ocean Road, Mantra puts on a stellar lineup of Schoolies events that make the party here something truly remarkable. During week 2 of the Schoolies Festival, Lorne metamorphoses into a Schoolies spectacular, alive with stellar themed parties and events for under and over 18s alike, all in an intimate setting that is perfect for making the most of all of your favourite people. 

Leavers Dunsborough
Western Australia’s answer to The Gold Coast, Dunsborough undoubtedly offers the most raucous and well-rounded Leavers experience in the state. Attracting an annual crowd some 10,000 strong, for any west coast school leavers seeking to farewell high school with a sizable bang, Leavers Dunsborough is the locale for you!

During the day at Leavers Dunsborough, graduates can be found, en masse, swimming, snorkelling and SUP’ing, fishing, frolicking and fiesta’ing along the stunning shores and shimmering waters of the gorgeous Geographe Bay; making the most of the stupendous serenity and stunning scenery that this pretty part of the planet is famous for. As you’d expect, with such large numbers of excitable Leavers in attendance, this makes daily beach bashes inevitable and you can rest assured that by the end of the day, everyone is well primed for long nights of unchained revelry. 

Whilst unofficial beach parties are a daily given, The Royal Life Saving Society also organises an official party called ‘The Meelup Beach Day’. An absolutely unmissable event and an undeniable highlight of the entire Leavers festival, partygoers here can expect an action-packed day enjoying the inflatable aqua playground, mingling and making friends with the lineup of different beach games and, of course, cutting sick to the DJ’s disco beats on the beach… all day long! 

Come nightfall, things only get better as the crowd migrates to ‘The Leavers Entertainment Zone’ for a night of inexplicable bliss. Exclusive to Leavers who have attained an official Leavers wristband, this nightly extravaganza is an absolute riot. Leavers from Dunsborough and surrounding towns can live their nights large, enjoying epic DJ’s, carnival rides, silent discos, a movie tent and more. Like most official Schoolies/Leavers events, tickets are limited and do sell out, so speak with Tribe Travel about organising your access and Leavers accommodation today. Spots fill up 18-24 months in advance!

Leavers Busselton
Next up on our list of unmissable Leavers locales, we have Leavers Busselton. Located just 25 minutes along the coast from all the Dunsborough Leavers action, Leavers Busselton is another avenue that offers the best of both worlds. On one hand, it offers an unreal zen space on the stunning shores of the gorgeous Geographe Bay for you to thrive with your tribe and unravel the last of your senior year tension. On the other hand, it offers super simple Leavers bus access to all of the aforementioned mayhem of Leavers Dunsborough which is only 25 minutes up the road. Leavers Busselton is also home to leading Leavers accommodation such as Broadwater Resort, Bayview Geographe Resort, Amalfi Resort Busselton, Aqua Resort Busselton, The Sebel Busselton and many more!

Leavers Yallingup
Similar to Busselton, Yallingup is another solid option that offers an epic middle-ground for Leavers seeking the best of both worlds. It offers a captivating coastline and stupendous serenity, and again, easy bus access to all the high-octane events of Leavers Dunsborough, making it exceptionally easy to tailor your stay to being as mild or wild as you please. 

In town, the tourism scene is superb, with Yallingup even being named number 1 in Australian Traveller Magazine’s list of ‘Best Towns in Australia’ in 2019'. The local surroundings are stupendous, the locals are friendly, the food is fantastic, the Leavers accommodation list is long and it also boasts the bonus of pumping surf which you generally can not find at the aforementioned hotspots. Yallingup is also home to the crowd favourite Leavers accommodation such as the Yallingup Caves Tasman Holiday Parks and Yallingup Beach Caravan Park.

Leavers Gracetown
Jostle further south down the stunning west coast and you will be awestruck by all the majesty of our next hotspot, Leavers Gracetown. Epicly alluring for those who live and breathe the ocean, Gracetown sits on the captivating coastline of Cowaramup Bay where you can find equally easy access to both calm, clear water ideal for swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing, and world-class waves which attract surfers from across the country.

The Leavers scene itself here is more chill, however again, Leavers Gracetown offers easy private bus transfers to all the magic of Leavers Dunsborough. Furthermore, you will also be well positioned to day trip to all the natural majesty of The Margaret River Wine Region. Ideal for those seeking a serene getaway abound with avenues for ocean therapy, is Gracetown the place for you?

Leavers Margaret River
Recognised across the country as one of Australia’s leading wine regions, for the fine flavours of its scrumptious local culinary scene and for its impressive coastline of sensational surf spots, it should come as no surprise that Leavers Margaret River would make this list. Add the fact that the region's roaring tourism trade ensures there is an impressive array of Leavers accommodation options perfect for tribes of all tastes and sizes, and you know we’ve found a spectacular Leavers locale that we need to discuss! 

In Margaret River town and surrounds, you and the other hundreds of Leavers who flock here for Leavers can expect to enjoy epic food, exciting entertainment avenues like downhill mountain biking and a plethora of indigenous cultural experiences during your long days here under the sun. Further, the region’s famous tall timber forests are a stunning setting to explore via the countless miles of awesome hiking trails, as is the captivating coastline with its many mesmerising lookouts over the vast big blue!

Whilst the Leavers party scene at Leavers Margaret River does not rival that in Dunsborough, it is an exceptional setting to make magical memories with your nearest and dearest. You are certain to remain entertained locally during your Leavers stay, and again, when you want to dial up the disco there are convenient private bus connections to both the Dunsborough Leavers Entertainment Zone each night, as well as the Dunsborough Leavers ‘The Meelup Beach Day’.

If awesome scenery, fine dining and awesome accommodation speaks to you, then Leavers Margaret River is perfect for you!

Leavers Rottnest Island
Last on our list of the best Leavers locales, we have Western Australia’s tropical island retreat - Leavers Rottnest Island. 

Sitting just off the coast of Perth and gird by some of the clearest waters in the world, Rottnest Island’s avenues to get wet are second to none.It boasts a boundless serenity that can only be found on an island that is virtually car-free and an overall green feel that is sure to impress Leavers who are particularly environmentally aware. The Leavers scene here is overall more relaxed than the larger mainland options, however the dining and accommodation options are as splendorous a setting as any - offering perfect opportunities to relax with your inner posse and to meet and mingle with other like minded Leavers who have opten to escape to the sheer serenity. 

If it is a tropical retreat where you can put up your feet and watch the world go by between bouts of exploring the 63 different secluded bays and beaches this beautiful island is home to, then Leavers Rottnest is the perfect place for you.

Bali Schoolies and Bali Leavers
First nation off the rank we have Australia’s favourite asian retreat, none other than the Indonesian tropical island paradise - Bali. Famous across the world for its sensational party scene, there are oh so many reasons why Schoolies Bali is well-deserving of its spot on this list - not the least of which is its impressive price tag. 

With cheaper flights now making the hop across the pond accessible and affordable from airports across the country, escaping to Asia for your Schoolies may actually end up favourable for your bank account. Apart from the priceless cultural immersion experience you are sure to receive here, Schoolies Bali offers Schoolies accommodation, Schoolies parties, shopping for fabulous fakes and delicious local cuisine all at a fraction of the price you would pay at some of the bigger ticket destinations in Australia. Further, Bali is brimming with immense rainforest, active volcanoes and miles of amazing coastline which you can capitalise on with well-priced adventure tour experiences and the Balinese service culture is sure to have you feeling like royalty throughout your stay. If the idea of drinking an ice cold coconut on the beach whilst getting a foot massage and watching the sun sets sounds superb to you, then Schoolies Bali is an avenue you should consider. 

For those who are unaware, Indonesia is the country and the world's largest archipelago, with Bali being the standout island for western tourism. So if Bali refers to the whole island, where exactly should you stay for Schoolies, you ask? Read on for our top Bali Schoolies suburbs below or view the available Bali Schoolies accommodation options here.

Kuta Schoolies
The undeniable epicentre of Bali’s wildest nights out, Kuta beach Schoolies is a guaranteed eye-opener for the uninitiated. Famous on the world stage for its glitter strip where you can find everything from dance reviews to dwarf wrestling across its many raging bars, pubs, clubs, superclubs and everything in between, a night out in Kuta is certainly never dull. Being the entertainment hub that it is, it is exceptionally well suited to younger crowds, such as Schoolies, looking to make the most of all the excitement. It boasts an impressive lineup of resort style Schoolies accommodations with swim up bars that work to warm everyone up for the epic nightlife, many magical markets, friendly locals and a beach scene with waves that are tough to top. If exceptional nightlife is what you are after on your Schoolies getaway, then Kuta is the place for you.

Seminyak Schoolies
Next up… quite literally 1.5 kilometres north, we have Bali’s day-club capital, Seminyak Schoolies. Often considered to be more refined than its crazy cousin Kuta, Seminyak is famous for its exceptional local and international culinary scene, its beautiful beaches and, of course, for being home to many of the best day clubs in Bali. With many crowd favourites, such as Cocoon Beach, Ku De Ta, Tropicola, SugarSand and, of course, Potato Head all being centred around Seminyak, you will be spoilt for choices on where to while each day away when you choose Schoolies Seminyak. All of these venues offer sensational drink and dining options to be enjoyed around exquisite pools and beach settings, and all of them are sure to leave you feeling like you have found heaven on Earth. 

In addition to the many epic day-clubs. Seminyak also offers an impressive lineup of resort and boutique Schoolies accommodation and an array of indulgent yet affordable day spas options for you to enjoy during your stay. Did we mention that Schoolies Bali was certainly something worth considering?  

Schoolies Thailand 
Continue your migration north and enter the land of smiles and the next entrant on our international Schoolies escapes list - Thailand.

Famous across the globe for its mouthwatering cuisine, sublime tropical islands and stupendous service culture, Thailand is a paradise abound with limitless possibilities for you to tailor the ultimate Schoolies escape. Depending on your preferences, different corners of the country offer vastly different experiences, all with the common theme of them being epicly affordable and fabulously fun. 

Hit the islands and you will find beautiful beachscapes and sensational snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities. Land in Phuket or Bangkok and be wowed by the awesome party scene and impressive shopping opportunities. Or head north to Chiang Mai and Chang Rai and find captivating cultural experiences and large swathes of lush tropical forest alive with wildlife wonders for you to explore and admire. 

Thailand truly is another example of a country where your dollar will stretch more than you might imagine, consequently stretching your options for indulgence, entertainment and luxurious Schoolies accommodation options. With so much to see, explore and experience, get in touch with the team at Tribe Travel to discuss putting together your ideal Thailand Schoolies itinerary today.

Schoolies Vanuatu
The next international Schoolies escape you need to consider is Vanuatu. Sitting pretty in the depths of the South Pacific Ocean, this archipelago nation of 83 islands abounds with such immense natural beauty that tourism of its exquisite local landscapes is the country’s primary export. Consider this along with the fact that it is recognised as one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world and you know you are in for a Schoolies experience that stands out.

Schoolies Vanuatu is another international option where your escape can be whatever you want it to be. Opt for the relaxation avenue and you can spend your days basking under the endless sunshine, drinking coconuts on the stunning white sand beaches between bouts of swimming, surfing and snorkelling in the miraculously clear waters that surround. On the other hand, you can opt for the adventure option and island hop to different villages to immerse yourself in the many intriguing cultures of the different villages, explore verdant swathes of lush rainforest and swim in whimsical waterfalls that look like they’re straight out of a story book. Or, of course, you could opt for something in between. In any case, Schoolies Vanuatu is promised to impress. 

Set sail for Schoolies Vanuatu and you will also have an impressive lineup of interesting Schoolies accommodations to explore, ranging from immersive homestays to lavish luxury retreats.  Tribe Travel are leaders in the Schoolies Vanuatu space and our team are the best people to speak to about organising your perfect island escape. If this sounds like the Schoolies spot for you, reach out today. 

Schoolies Fiji
Finally, the lucky last of our ultimate international Schoolies escapes, we have Schoolies Fiji. 

Picture perfect from every angle, Fiji is a wonderland of white sand beaches, wild waves, wicked watersports and underwater experiences that capitalise on here being the soft coral capital of the world. Its epic aquatic scene is simply sensational, making Schoolies Fiji the perfect place for Schoolies who live and breathe the ocean. 

On shore, the locals lead an incredibly relaxed way of life that bodes exceptionally well with what you are trying to achieve during your Schoolies week. Furthermore, they are famously welcoming and you are certain to find many mind blowing opportunities to get involved in the many centuries old ceremonies that are still practised as in day-to-day life here. Famous for the daily indulgence of ‘island time’, a time where you sit back, relax and take heed of the relaxing surroundings and exceptional company, if you are looking to unwind amongst a setting of sheer bliss, then Schoolies Fiji is the perfect fit for you!

In summary, it is absolutely possible to tailor the perfect Schoolies experience for you no matter what your preferences… provided you are well informed and well organised. Tribe Travel are Schoolies experts who have over 20 years of combined experience in helping graduates plan their perfect week away. During their journey to becoming the industry leaders in Schoolies and Leavers escapes, they have forged strong connections with the broadest array of Schoolies accommodation and party providers, both domestically and abroad, and they have an intimate knowledge of the festival that renders them exceptionally well-informed to ensure your experience is exactly what you wish it to be. Schoolies is a genuine once in a lifetime experience so make sure you do it right. Speak with Tribe Travel today to organise your ultimate Schoolies week away! Or check out the latest Schoolies dates and Leavers dates here.