The Best Coastal Holiday Spots in Australia

There are more than 10,000 beaches in Australia. Yep. Ten. Thousand. If you’ve got a spare 30 years up your sleeve, you might just be able to visit each and every one of them. Failing that, your best bet is to pull together a shortlist.

Mind you, a shortlist is no mean feat. Dotted along Australia’s 36,735 kilometres of coastline are a glut of coastal towns boasting not only the picture-perfect vista, but the supporting scene to help you live your best #beachlife.

Here are some of the places we’d be adding to any shortlist, post haste.

Tas | NSW | SA | Vic | WA | Qld

Coles Bay, Tas

The seaside village of Coles Bay sits oh-so-pretty on the edge of Freycinet National Park, between the dramatic Hazards mountains and Great Oyster Bay.

Wineglass Bay and Hazards mountains in Freycinet National Park near Coles Bay. (image: Tourism Tasmania/Chris Bray Photography)

Outdoor activities are ripe for the picking – a kayaking tour with Freycinet Adventures is a must – while Wineglass Bay Cruises can zip you around the spectacular coastline, complete with sea caves, blowholes and waterfalls, in style.

On the food front, it’s all about fresh local produce and seafood is king – think oysters, mussels, scallops and rock lobster. Be sure to check out Freycinet Marine Farm . A tourism icon, Saffire Freycinet gives new meaning to the term ‘luxury resort’. But if your budget doesn’t stretch that far, give the lovely Freycinet Lodge a whirl.

Freycinet Lodge. — Stay in the luxurious Freycinet Lodge Coastal Pavilions. (Image: RACT Destinations)

Huskisson, NSW

Less than 200 kilometres south of Sydney, Huskisson is the hub of oceanic wonderland, Jervis Bay. With beach after dreamy beach, this biodiversity hotspot is a delight, no matter how you prefer to spend your summers.

Join a dolphin or whale watching tour with Jervis Bay Wild or grab a schooner and keep a look out from the always popular Husky Pub deck, which can accommodate you overnight in one of eight guest suites.

Whale watching in Jervis Bay — Join a dolphin or whale watching tour. (Image: Destination NSW)

You can also find yourself a home among the gum trees at Paperbark Camp . On the dining scene, The Quarters Huskisson is a slick eatery and bar, and 5 Little Pigs is a hit on the cafe scene.

Yamba, NSW

Positioned at the mouth of the Clarence River, Yamba has been described as Byron Bay without the crowds, so you can see the appeal. The region is a surfer’s paradise – nearby Angourie Beach was declared a National Surfing Reserve in 2007 – and there are great spots for wading, fishing and snorkelling, too. Not up to task? Yamba-Angourie Surf School can help.

Turners Beach Yamba — Yamba is a surfer’s paradise. (Image: Destination NSW)

There is no shortage of great places to dine – try Beachwood Cafe , Drift and Karrikin – and the Pacific Hotel is just the spot for beers with a view. Bed down at The Sands or Il Delfino Seaside Inn .

Spot dolphins at Main Beach in Yamba. (Image: Destination NSW)

Robe, SA

Beaches are fantastic for all manner of pursuits, but it’s not often you can glide across the sand on four wheels. Welcome to Robe, home to pristine Long Beach, one of the few Australian beaches on which you can drive.

Drive on the sand in Robe at Long Beach. (Image: Mark Fitzpatrick)

Robe is big on small-town charm as a wander between the main street’s boutiques and eateries will illustrate. Grab an award-winning cup of ‘joe’ at Mahalia Coffee , be sure to secure a dinner reservation at Sails , and don’t miss the unique offering at sustainable Robe Town Brewery . Some quality time at Cape Dombey Obelisk, which sits atop the region’s famous limestone cliffs, will leave you marvelling at this masterpiece of nature.

Find the iconic Cape Dombey Obelisk in Robe. (Image: Elliot Grafton)

Sorrento, Vic

A picturesque village on the Mornington Peninsula, Sorrento is equal parts sophistication and coastal appeal. Stylish boutiques, galleries and antique outlets share the main street with a selection of cafes and restaurants.

Sorrento, Mornington Peninsula — Sorrento is a picturesque village on the Mornington Peninsula. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Pop into the Sorrento Brewhouse for casual dining plus a selection of local beer and wine, or indulge at the fine-dining restaurant Loquat . Between them, Sorrento’s beaches, and the many nearby, offer great conditions for surfing, swimming and the like, while fishing trips, seal- and dolphin-watching excursions and other tours depart from the front beach pier.

Fishing boats in Sorrento — Find coastal appeal around every corner at Sorrento. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Stroll along the Sorrento Long Pier. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Stay at Hotel Sorrento , a peninsula institution. You’re also blessed with Mornington Peninsula’s renowned wine region on your doorstep.

Yallingup, WA

When idyllic beaches meet exceptional wineries, you know you’re in for a treat. In the celebrated Margaret River region, Yallingup has been luring surfers for decades while the crystal-clear lagoon at Yallingup Beach does more than satisfy swimmers and snorkellers. Gastronomes also love Yallingup. All manner of palates are catered for, with Chow’s Table , Barnyard 1978 and Cape Lodge Restaurant among the delicious options. For wineries, try Wills Domain and Swings & Roundabouts . Yallingup is also home to an arts precinct, and then there is nature’s very own gallery, provided by surrounding Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park.

Port Douglas, Qld

From an undiscovered fishing town to a glittering tourist attraction, Port Douglas is a Tropical North Queensland gem, and it all began with the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort.

The Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Port Douglas — The Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort started a transformation in Port Douglas.

More than 30 years later, and a few refurbishments down, the Sheraton still stands strong and is in good company now with the Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa, and Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas . It’s the white-sand beaches and lush tropical rainforests that epitomise this region, plus a modern cafe and bar scene.

Sunset views over Four Mile Beach in Port Douglas.

Activities are endless in this slice of paradise: try river drift snorkelling with Back Country Bliss , get acquainted with Aboriginal traditions on a cultural tour with Walkabout Adventures , or soak up the tropical vibes on a Sailaway sunset cruise. Meanwhile, the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest are both within a stone’s throw.

Sailaway Tours Port Douglas — Soak up the tropical vibes on a Sailaway sunset cruise

Burleigh Heads Beach, Qld

The Gold Coast can be almost anything you want it to be. Laidback beach culture? Check. Glitz and glamour? Check. Wellness hub? Check. Want all of the above? Then it’s Burleigh Heads Beach for you.

Find coastal chill at Burleigh Heads Beach on the Gold Coast. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

A bustling hub, Burleigh has always delivered on coastal chill and, with help from a few new(ish) faces, is now arguably the Gold Coast’s premium dining destination. Enjoy unparalleled views and mouth-watering cuisine at Burleigh Pavilion or Rick Shores ; feel the style ooze from every corner of Labart – and the list goes on. Stay at Bon Sol, an interior masterpiece on the water.

Enjoy unparalleled views and mouth-watering cuisine at Burleigh Pavilion. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

The wild, otherworldly beauty of The Grampians offers a perfect place to unwind, slow down and relax.

Not all holidays yield the same result; some are bustling, with endless things to do, events to book and places to see. All great things, but they leave you feeling more tired than before. Then, there are destinations that help you slow down, making real connections and participating in self-care.

Destinations like The Grampians : surrounded by untouched nature, allowing a chance to reconnect with yourself and loved ones at a slower pace.

Discover six science-backed ways to enjoy a holiday and feel restored at the end of it.

1. Practice mindfulness

Hamilton Gallery, the grampians — Be present at Hamilton Gallery. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Mindfulness – the practice of tuning into the present moment – has been found to help in reducing stress, anxiety and depression. One way to practice this art is by immersing yourself in art.

Hamilton Gallery has been in operation for over 60 years, and is not only home to many significant art pieces but also runs workshops and events for all ages to expand their awareness and understanding of art. The gallery is also the custodian of the largest collection of Gunditjmara artefacts held on country.

If you prefer to practice mindfulness through movement, visit Halls Gap Zoo to feed the meerkats – who wouldn’t feel better after focusing on these little guys? Or visit The Grampians Horse Riding Centre for an unforgettable morning ride through 10 kilometres of bushland. Enjoy the soothing movement of the horse and experience the bush anew.

2. Indulge in self-care

two people swimming in the Venus Baths, the grampains — Take an immersive bath in nature on the Venus Baths loop walk. (Image: Visit Victoria)

While the term self-care might conjure up images of indulgent bubble baths or a soothing massage, there’s more to it than pampering. Self-care is any action that protects your physical, emotional and mental well-being.

Like taking an immersive ‘bath’ in nature. Do just that on the Venus Baths loop walk – ideal for less experienced hikers or those walking with kids – stopping at freshwater-filled rockpools to cool down along the way.

Serious hikers (we’re talking some rock hopping and traversing slippery tracks) can tackle the Wurgarri, or Mount Sturgeon walk, which rewards the effort with panoramic views from the summit.

For those whose idea of self-care leans more towards arts and culture, a visit to WAMA is a must. Australia’s first national centre for environmental art is home to exhibitions that explore the natural world through film, installation, painting, performance and more.

3. Embrace nature

Boroka Lookout, the grampians — Soak in incredible views over Halls Gap at Boroka Lookout. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Spending time in nature is the ultimate way to soothe your body and mind. It’s been proven to help with all manner of things, from reducing stress to boosting cognitive function. And there’s no better place to enjoy it than among the raw sandstone, wildflowers and native creatures of The Grampians.

Rocklands Reservoir, spanning 6700 hectares, is an ideal spot. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the view over Grampians National Park. Cast a line, hire a canoe or follow nature trails along the water’s perimeter. How’s the serenity?

To appreciate nature’s imposing power, head to Splitters Falls. Here, find unrivalled tranquillity. Spring is the best time to visit, when bouquets of native spring flowers greet visitors.

Those with limited mobility will appreciate Boroka Lookout, a viewing platform surrounded by breathtaking views over Halls Gap and the eastern Grampians. Come early to witness a sunrise you’ll never forget.

4. Prioritise Rest

outdoor bathtub at Nook On The Hill — Recharge at Nook on the Hill. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Above all else, a holiday should be an opportunity to recharge, and there’s no better way to do it than to get a good night’s sleep. We don’t need to tell you how essential sleep is, for everything from mental health to strengthening the immune system.

Try Wanderlust Glamping , where guests fall asleep to the soothing sounds of nature after an evening relaxing around the fire pit and wake to your very own green oasis.

For pure luxury in the foothills of the Grampians National Park, look no further than Nook on the Hill – a handcrafted tiny house surrounded by rewilded, lush native Australian bush. It might be small, but Nook on the Hill has everything needed to unwind in style, including an outdoor bath for balmy nights.

For a modern farm stay, book at Mount William Station in the foothills of The Grampians. The station combines old-world charm with modern amenities and easy access to everything this region has to offer.

5. Engage Your Senses

Salingers Cafe, destinations that help you slow down — Indulge in a meal at Salingers. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Few human senses are as fun to indulge in as taste. A meal at Salingers in Great Western is the ultimate treat, and not only for the taste buds. The food is excellent, but Salingers’ really unique attraction is the bustling beehive that lives within the walls of the historic building.

For an expertly smoked burger, ribs, or beef brisket, head to Flame Brothers in Halls Gap. Tuck into delicious food while you enjoy the view.

If you prefer your senses heightened by the pump of adrenaline, Grampians Soaring Club offers an eagle-eye view of the Grampians National Park and Pyrenees Ranges from a glider. Take in the sights with a cross-country flight, ridge soar, or altitude wave flight.

6. Connect and reconnect

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria — Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

Making shared memories is a wonderful way to reconnect with old friends or make new ones. These unexpected finds make it easy to discover something new in The Grampians.

Amateur geologists will delight at the Kanawinka geotrail, which covers 60 sites over Australia’s most extensive volcanic province. Visit the Penshurst Volcano Discovery Centre to learn more about volcanic activity in The Grampians, or head to nearby Mount Napier State Park for a trip into the Byaduk lava caves.

Pop in to the Ros McArthur Art Studio to peruse the gardens full of native and exotic plants and flowers that serve as the subjects of Ros’s still life paintings.

For a shopping experience like no other, head to the Dimboola Imaginarium . Far more than a shop, the Dimboola Imaginarium is an immersive experience where you’ll find all manner of quirky bits and pieces. Expect the unexpected.

Put these science-backed holiday benefits to the test during a trip to The Grampians. Plan your peaceful getaway at visitgrampians.com.au.

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