Last-minute summer and Christmas deals you can still book

Don’t despair, your dream summer getaway is still possible.

Christmas: a time of family, giving and exorbitant travel prices. You’re probably thinking that to nab any kind of deal you would have needed to book months, if not years, ago. The good news is there are still summer and Christmas deals and we’ve even done the hard work for you.

Tips for finding last-minute Christmas deals

First tip is you have to be as flexible as Simone Biles both for destination and time.

Pick your destination

Avoid the most popular domestic family holiday destinations. According to AirBnB, family holidaymakers have been searching all the usual suspects for summer getaways this year, including Broadbeach and Alexandra Headland in Queensland; Jervis Bay, Scotts Head and Bowral in NSW; Saint Helens in Tassie and Augusta in WA.

It’s no surprise they are all coastal.

Looking inland can provide some amazing summer holiday inspiration with affordability and vacancies. Think Mudgee in NSW, the Coonawarra in SA, Granite Belt QLD or Wheatbelt WA.

Cities also tend to empty out over the Christmas holidays so it’s often the best five-star hotels at three-star prices time of year. Just be mindful of major events that bring the crowds back, like Sydney’s NYE celebrations and the AO in Melbourne the most obvious.

Finally look north and outback. Data from Wotif suggests that heading to Cairns in summer can save you up to 22 per cent on accommodation prices when compared to a winter visit. A summer vacay to Darwin can save you a whopping 122 per cent on accommodation because it tends to clear out in the warmer months. And Ayers Rock Resort is at its absolute cheapest in summer.

Shangri-La The Marina Cairns — This could be you in Cairns, for 22 per cent less. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

A quick note on everyone’s favourite, Tassie. This is the apogee of peak season and incredibly hard to find availability – but we have a trick for you below if you are hell-bent on getting to the Apple Isle over summer.

Pick your time

In general, the best dates to travel if you’re looking for a good price are the 23-28 December or after 12 January.

Be flexible with your flight times. Moving your flights a day or two on either side can lead to big savings.

Look at travelling options that traditionally offer more bang for your buck, like a cabin inside a caravan park or choosing an all-inclusive tour or cruise so there are no added costs after you pay upfront.

And finally, if it’s not deals you’re after, but simply availability, try splitting your stay into smaller chunks and be prepared to move around a few hotels – they may not have a room for a whole week, but several hotels may have two or three nights available that you can stitch together.

Pick up the phone

When you’ve narrowed down your destination, pick up the phone and call your desired accommodation or holiday letting agent to check if they have any availability, rather than relying on a Google search.

Operators are so busy in the lead-up to Christmas they won’t update their inventory for online travel portals like Stayz, Expedia, Booking.com as quickly – you may just be the lucky caller who nabs a last-minute deal.

Christmas deals in Queensland

Wondering if you can still find anything worth booking in the Sunshine State? This might be the hot place to be over summer, but we’ve rounded up a few deals you can still book.

For those still wanting a classic Goldie getaway, Dorsett Gold Coast is offering two Standard King rooms to fit a family of four from 20-26 January 2025 for $3622 .

Further up the coastline, turtle season at Mon Repos is in full swing and a brand-new resort is helping guests make the most of the experience.

Turtle Sands Resort is offering a Family Glamping Tent that fits four for $3251 from 23-28 December.

Or, relax on the go with a once-in-a-lifetime journey on the Great Southern Train journey. Travelling for two nights from Adelaide to Brisbane, you can book a Gold Class twin cabin (with room for two and including a compact en suite) for $1895 per person when you depart on December 20 or 27.

The Isoletto Pool Club at dorsett gold coast — Relax in style at Dorsett Gold Coast’s Isoletto Pool Club.

Christmas deals in New South Wales

There are plenty of inland towns in NSW worth a trip, but if you’re hoping to stay coastal you still have some options. Even in Byron Bay.

In fact, you can book a one-bedroom cabin with Discovery Holiday Parks for just $1579 from 23-28 December.

Or head to Ulladulla – a finalist for the Top Tourism Town award in 2024 – and stay at Burril Lake with Discovery Holiday Parks in a two-bedroom cabin that fits a family of four for $2140 when you book stay dates from 23-28 December.

Angourie Resort is offering a good deal for a getaway to Yamba with a two-bedroom Villa going for $3576 from 6-12 of January 2025.

Cupitt's Estate, Ulladulla — Visit wineries like Cupitt’s Estate in Ulladulla. (Image: DNSW)

Christmas deals in Victoria

Summer can be the best time to check out the arts, food and culture that makes Melbourne so famous.

Stay in a Deluxe Twin Room at Dorsett Melbourne from 23-28 December for $1388, or a two-bedroom Luxury Suite at Meriton Suites from 5-9 January 2025 for $1488.

Head a little out of the city to the very happening Geelong (especially when it comes to the foodie crowd) thanks to a stay at Discovery Holiday Parks in a Superior Two-Bedroom Cabin for $1919 from 23-28 December.

Dorsett Melbourne room — Stay in Melbourne’s centre at Dorsett. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Christmas deals in Western Australia

Just two hours south of Perth, indulge in the quintessential Aussie beach holiday with Discovery Parks – Bunbury Foreshore . Stay in the Superior Cabin from 23-28 December for $2623.

Christmas deals in the Northern Territory

Contrary to popular belief, Uluru is actually amazing to visit in summer. There are fewer crowds, you can still fit all your activities into the day while getting to relax over lunchtime when it’s at its hottest. And the accommodation deals are probably at their best.

Stay in a Standard Room at The Lost Camel Hotel for just $225 per night (minimum of three nights). Plus, a bunch of guest activities are included for free.

 Or stay in Darwin at the H on Mitchell Apartment Hotel for two nights at just $349 total. You’ll get a daily continental breakfast and a $50 dining credit to Lizards Bar & Restaurant, plus more, to sweeten the deal.

uluru — The Red Centre is usually cheaper to explore over summer. (Image: Tourism NT / Kate Flowers)

Cruising and touring Christmas deals

And now for our Tassie trick. Book a tour!

The tour companies have booked all your accommodation, excursions and experiences for you (and typically at a better rate than if you did) plus most of your meals. Meanwhile, plenty of others have missed out as they can’t find the accommodation.

Explore Tasmania for five nights with Intrepid for $1640 per person when you depart on 31 December. Wineglass Bay, Bay of Fires and interactions with the local wildlife, from Tasmanian devils to fairy penguins, are all on offer. Plus you get free evenings to explore on your own.

Or opt for AAT Kings for a four-night East Coast Highlights tour for $2138 when you depart on 27 December.

Royal Caribbean Cruises is ready to show you around the coastal beauties of Queensland (like Airlie Beach) with a six-night itinerary staying in a balcony room for $1750 per person when you depart on 4 January 2025.

aerial shot of tasmania's bay of fires and red rocks — Join a tour to see the best of Tasmania. (Image: Tourism Tasmania)

There you have it! Get on those summer holiday deals now before they disappear.

Those dreaming of a river escape that’s less rush and more rest will discover the perfect getaway in Echuca Moama.

Best known for summer river holidays, Echuca Moama dishes up extraordinary options for those craving good food, experiences and culture. Discover how best to spend your getaway in this gorgeous river town.

1. Find unique stays in Echuca Moama

Goolwa River Retreat villas — Bathe under the stars at Goolwa River Retreat.

An adventure here starts with the perfect place to stay. Echuca Moama is famous for its luxury houseboats. Be spoilt for choice with amenities like spas, chef’s kitchens and en-suites onboard Murray River Houseboats and Echuca Luxury Houseboats .

For those who prefer to stay on dry land to sleep, there’s no shortage of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. The villas at Goolwa River Retreat offer spectacular views of the Murray Riverfront, cosy evenings by the fire pit. And, a truly unique and luxurious experience: bathing under the stars in an outdoor bathtub.

Families travelling with young kids will appreciate the fully self-contained cabins, which sleep up to six, at NRMA Echuca Holiday Park . Complete with BBQ facilities and a kids’ playground, Echuca Holiday Park is the perfect base for families exploring the Echuca Moama region.

More adventurous guests can experience off-grid serenity at Carriages Water Front Retreat , where they can slumber among the redgums in a lovingly converted vintage train carriage.

If you prefer a more central place to stay, the Mercure Port of Echuca is located just five minutes from the Port of Echuca on foot and offers comfortable rooms, as well as easy access to all the region has to offer.

2. Explore the Murray River

PaddlesteamerS on the Murray River — Jump aboard one of Echuca Moama’s famous paddlesteamers.

A trip to Echuca Moama isn’t complete without seeing the Murray River. Take in views from the water, with Murray River Paddlesteamers and Echuca Paddlesteamers . Or combine sightseeing with lunch at a local winery or brewery on a Wharf to Winery or Port to Plate cruise .

Those who prefer an active holiday can hire a stand-up paddleboard with Echuca SUP to explore the river. Duck under the historic Echuca Moama Bridge and listen out for local wildlife. At the end of your paddleboarding trip, you’ll find a shuttle service to return you to the car park.

Kayaking is another great option if you like to combine seeing the sights with a full-body workout. Hire a kayak from River Country Adventours , or join a river safari for a guided experience.

3. Go hiking and biking in Echuca Moama

two bikers riding on the 19-kilometre Waranga Rail Trail — Peddle along the 19-kilometre Waranga Rail Trail.

On foot or by bike, there are plenty of trails to explore the region. Embark on a guided e-bike tour with Green Pedal (or hire an e-bike and go it alone) to explore the 19-kilometre Waranga Rail Trail . Traverse through beautiful bushland and the scenic Waranga Basin. Bakeries and picnic areas in the historic town of Rushworth provide the perfect place for refreshments.

Day trip to the lookout at Whroo Forest, near the now-abandoned Whroo township, located on historic Balaclava Hill. The Hill was once the site of Victoria’s largest open-cut gold mine and home to a thriving town. Today, the area offers picturesque walking tracks and picnic sites.

4. Taste Echuca Moama’s best dining options

lobster dish on the table at opa in echuca moama — Taste delicious, authentic Greek at Opa. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Whether you like a candlelit dinner or a coffee in the sunshine, Echuca Moama is ready to delight your taste buds.

Pop into Opa for authentic Greek fare with views of the town from its upstairs balcony. Enjoy seasonal produce at The Mill , offering everything from global street food and share plates to classic dinner and dessert options inside a historic building.

Discover a local secret at Monkee and Co , a relaxed Asian-fusion restaurant serving up classics like Banh Mi and dumplings.

Start the day with excellent coffee and waterfront views at the family-run Watson St Pavilion .

5. Drink at Echuca Moama’s best bars

two people drinking cockatails at paradise bar in echuca moama — Cheers to neon at Paradise Bar.

Top-notch tipples can be found at Paradise Bar , a new cocktail bar serving up handcrafted cocktails to delight the taste buds in the heart of Echuca. The menu features classics like mojitos, margs, and spritzers. As well as Paradise’s own creations featuring funky ingredients like bubble gum syrup and an Old Fashioned with truffle oil.

Bar Lee at the Echuca Distillery is the place to go to watch the sun go down at the rooftop bar, taste Echuca’s locally made spirits and nibble your way through an exceptional selection of share plates.

For river views, excellent service and a more than extensive wine menu, head to Social Wine Bar . You’ll find a laid-back atmosphere in the riverfront beer garden that sprawls out under an ancient pine tree and a cosy interior perfect for hiding away on a cool evening.

6. Follow local art trails

Jump in the car and follow the Silo Art Trail.

The region’s silos have been transformed into impressive, towering canvases depicting local fauna, Echuca’s historical links to industry and the building of the local railroad. Follow the Silo Art Trail by car, which takes between three and four hours.

Rochester Mural Park is home to an annual lineup of changing murals, while the Rochester Mural Festival showcases established and emerging artists.

7. Dive into local history

Echuca Port Museum and Penny Tourism — See the historic Port of Echuca.

The Echuca Moama region is bursting with history. Among its historical treasures is the Port of Echuca . Interactive displays showcase the port’s importance to historical trade along the river, industrial sites like the Evans Brothers Sawmill and the Port of Echuca railway station with its very own heritage steam train.

The displays pay homage to the site’s significance to the local Yorta Yorta People and their ancestral connection to the land where the Murray, Campaspe and Goulburn Rivers meet.

Explore the port independently or join a guided tour to learn from Echuca’s history buffs.

Learn more and start planning the perfect holiday to Echuca Moama at visitechucamoama.com.au.