Hens’ nights are still incredibly popular but these days there’s seldom a stripper in sight. Modern brides-to-be are opting for hens’ holidays with the girls instead of a more traditional ‘hens’ night’. Here are some hens’ holiday ideas for the Australian bride-to-be (and her friends). Why settle for just one evening of fun when you could go on a vintage shopping tour around Melbourne or party in paradise on the Gold Coast?

Gold Coast with the girls

voco Gold Coast is bold, bright and perfect for partying. The bars and clubs of the glitter strip are within walking distance and so are jetboat trips and iFLY skydiving fun. If you’d prefer to do something more relaxing, there’s always a spa or a little retail therapy at nearby Cavill Avenue. When night falls you can either slip on your dancing shoes or opt for a fun group activity like disco bowling across the road at Strike.

Queenstown thrills

Queenstown is one of the few places in the world where heart-pumping adventure activities go hand-in-hand with the finer things in life. Self-catering in a shared apartment is a great way to cut costs and some hotels like The Rees even have a free shuttle bus so there’s no need to pay for taxis if you fancy a night on the town. Treat yourselves to a massage at the on-site spa or get your thrills with the likes of jetboating, skydiving, paragliding or a ziptrek from the top of Bob’s Peak. If you feel like going out, Queenstown has plenty of lively bars – try Monty’s, The Boiler Room or Barmuda which has a plush lounge area that’s perfect for groups.

Queensland cooking class trip

Grab some friends and spend a few hours exploring Montville’s shops and galleries before checking into Spicers Tamarind Retreat, an indulgent culinary escape with private pavilions dotted amongst the gumtrees. Sign up for a Thai cooking class at the on-site culinary school then sit down to enjoy the results with a glass of wine followed by a massage at Spa Anise. Small groups can book the hydrotherapy room for a private steam and spa followed by a rain shower overlooking the rolling fields. Secluded Gardners Falls is the perfect spot for a refreshing swim and it’s just a few steps from your accommodation.

Go on a Hidden Secrets tour

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend. So are unique outfits and gorgeous homewares from the cutest vintage shops in town. Discover Melbourne’s best vintage shopping finds on a Hidden Secrets’ Vintage Outing tour. This features a chauffeur called Harold Hoover and a lovingly resorted 1960s Fiat 1500. You’ll receive a vintage inspired shopping bag, tea and homemade treats, and a personal journal from the lovely Betty and Miss Shirley. Hidden Secrets also run walking tours around the CBD. Get your coffee fix on a Cafe Culture Walk or mix shopping with street art during the popular Lanes and Arcades jaunt. Private tours don’t cost any extra and can be tailored to suit which is sure to make your hens happy.

Skydive in Sydney

‘Taking the plunge’ takes on a whole new meaning with Skydive the Beach Sydney. Things kick off with an exhilarating tandem skydive which could then be followed by a much-needed relaxation massage at Novotel Northbeach or lunch at a local cafe. Throw in a night at The Ivory Nightclub and you’ve got yourself a memorable weekend of fun.

Hen’s getaway in Fiji

With the wind in your hair and a glass of bubbly in hand, it’s hard to think of a better way to experience the beautiful islands of Fiji. Whale’s Tale is a fully rigged 100 foot schooner which takes travellers on a day cruise through the stunning string of islands known as the Mamanuca group with lunch served at the crew’s very own deserted island, Schooner Island. Everything is provided on this trip, from complimentary snorkelling gear and kayaks to alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, a delicious buffet lunch and entertainment on the trip back. As the crew strum their guitars and sing the boat back to Denarau, everyone on board wears a smile as big as the bright blue sky.

Disclosure: The writer was a guest of the operators.

If you are heading overseas for your Hen’s Getaway, you might also find our airport stopover tips, overseas safety advice, travel planning tips, and advice for avoiding scams helpful.