As the days get longer and the nights grow milder, December in Australia and New Zealand means the start of barbies on the beach, comfortable temperatures, and of course, the hectic build-up to Christmas.

That's why we've compiled some of the best destinations on the eastern side of the Southern Hemisphere to have a warm holiday celebration. With the cities totally chockers, escape to one of these fantastic, rural locations and have yourself a ripper this December!

Australia

1. Wollemi National Park, New South Wales

Just a couple of hours northwest of Sydney, the World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park boasts an abundance of scenic trails in a dramatic setting, along with heaps of rivers for unforgettable arvos of kayaking and swimming.

At this unique site, you shouldn't miss the chance to complete the iconic walk from Thredbo to the summit of Australia's highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko, where the panoramic views from the top are simply breathtaking.

2. The Blue Mountains, New South Wales

With 1 million hectares of majestic forests, epic canyons, and sparkling waterfalls, it's no wonder that over 4 million people flock to this pristine landscape each year. Scenic World at Katoomba is a must with its Scenic Skyway gondola that traverses the Jamison Valley—offering spectacular vistas of the Katoomba Falls, Three Sisters, and Mount Solitary.

After a day of adventures, you can retreat to your own unique getaway and enjoy the vast views of eucalyptus trees seemingly stretching on forever, cold one in hand.

3. Namadgi National Park, New South Wales

Located just 45 minutes drive from Canberra, Namadgi National Park offers a rural haven away from the crammed streets of the city in December. As aboriginal people were living in the area during the last ice age 21,000 years ago, there are an abundance of fascinating sites just waiting to be discovered.

If you're looking for a relaxed holiday full of scenic drives, history, and bushwalking, you'll have found your perfect getaway in the grassy valleys, wetlands, and boundless eucalyptus forests of this gorgeous National Park.

4. Bruny Island, Tasmania

Home of the stunning South Bruny National Park, this one-of-a-kind island offers an unbeatable wilderness retreat. With fur seals, fairy penguins, and white wallabies calling this region home, animal lovers will be in their element.

Visiting in December means that the penguin breeding season will be in full swing, offering you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see these slippery characters plod ashore at the picturesque seaside town of Penguin or at Point Sorell.

New Zealand

1. Waiuku near Auckland, North Island

Only an hour from Auckland, the winding Awhitu Peninsular and the iconic black sands of Kariotahi Beach in Waiuku offer a great weekend getaway with sublime coastal views. You can set off on the waters and take the opportunity to kayak and enjoy a magical sunset on the water in the Waiuku Estuary—all before returning to your secluded getaway for an evening of relaxation.

2. Lake Wakatipu, South Island

As the third largest lake in New Zealand, the lightning bolt shaped waters of Lake Wakatipu boast incredible levels of purity and cleanliness, making this an ideal spot for water sports and cruises while surrounded by epic scenery. If you're looking to get your blood pumping, head over to the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge, the historic birthplace of bungee, and make the leap of faith from the height of a 10-story building!

3. Lake Wanaka, South Island

Situated in the spectacular alps on the South Island of New Zealand, the pristine lakes and mountains in Wanaka, along with its proximity to Mt. Aspiring National Park, make it a premier site for outdoor activities. Roys Peak is not to be missed, as you'll be in awe at the magnificent views of Wanaka, the lake below, and the humbling peaks of the Southern Alps.

This December, immerse yourself in this incredible world of glaciers, majestic mountains, and deep alpine lakes from this equally as stunning bell tent rental.

4. Waipara Wine Region, South Island

Renowned as New Zealand's premier wine-producing region, the sprawling vineyards, award-winning wineries, and awe-inspiring scenic walkways of the the Waipara Valley make it an idyllic escape for lovers of Pinot Noir and outdoor adventure alike.

Just 45 minutes north of Christchurch, get away from the concrete jungle this December, and surrounded yourself with the stunning panoramic vistas from this accommodation in North Canterbury.

---

What else makes your glamping wish list this December? Check out what made ours here!

Allow your glamping dreams to come true this year when traveling to Noosa, Queensland, to visit these luxury tent rentals. Andrzej and Jolene of Wanderlust Storytellers know a thing or two about turning a vacation into an extraordinary, romantic experience, and after they share some of their tips, you will want to make your next vacation a glamping getaway, too!

Whether you are making an escape to the beach to disconnect from the hustle and bustle or planning a picnic to share with a loved one surrounded by greenery, you can pitch a glamping tent wherever you heart desires.

Find out more about Andrzej and Jolene's epic outdoor adventure and all the romance that came with it below.

What are the three words you would use to describe your glamping site?

Romantic, peaceful, and elegant.

Do you prefer to go glamping solo or with other groups and couples?

I love glamping with my beautiful wife! To me, this is the best couples' treat, for sure.

What is one of your most memorable glamping experiences?

Glamping with Glamping Hub is definitely on the top of our glamping experiences! You simply cannot beat the romantic set up that we had.

The tent itself was amazing. All of the pillows and blankets that were provided kept us cozy under the starry sky—not to mention the private fire pit in front of our tent, which made the whole experience just perfect!

What has glamping taught you about travel and nature?

I always loved camping, but glamping is next-level comfort. I guess what I’ve learned was: why go camping when you can go glamping?

What is your favorite type of unique accommodation and why?

That is a hard one! There are so many unique places that we have stayed at; however, glamping has got to be one of the most unique ones. It’s like it is best of both worlds. Although you are still camping next to a fire, you also have all the bells and whistles of a luxurious accommodation.

What trends do you follow when planning a glamping getaway?

The main thing is choosing a location that allows for total relaxation. This place must be off-the-grid and have no connection to the 'net and social media world.

How has glamping changed the way you vacation?

Glamping has definitely changed the way I think about camping experiences. My private tent has been long forgotten in the shed. These days, if we feel like a quick getaway, glamping is the natural choice. That way, we can still have a fire and marshmallows, and we don’t need to set up or pack up.

What was unique about your glamping stay?

The blankets and stack of pillows on the mat in front of the fire—that was the best for sure! Total relaxation and bliss, and having all of that under the starry sky, while listening to the fire crackling...it was simply perfect!

To plan your perfect couples' getaway in Noosa, Queensland, check out the luxury tents visited by Jolene and Andrzej here!

---

Want to follow along with this romantic duo on their next getaway? Check out their blog, Instagram, and Facebook for more tips and travels.