8 coastal getaways that offer the perfect seaside reset

Whether you cast yourself away to a timeless holiday town, picturesque peninsula or off-grid escape, Australia’s beaches, bays and islands are your ticket to exploring our great outdoors.

1. Tasmania’s islands

Travelling with: Lara Picone

a look inside Vipp Tunnel, Bruny Island — The sustainably designed Vipp Tunnel guesthouse is Bruny Island’s most exclusive stay.

An island festooned with smaller outcrops anchored in pristine waters, Tasmania has plenty of places where you can be entirely girt by sea. For excursions ex-Hobart, ferry across to Bruny Island to indulge your inner gourmand and stay at the brutally sleek Vipp Tunnel. You can join Great Walks of Australia’s newest multi-day hike on north-eastern Flinders Island. Or take in the wondrous wildlife and landscapes of Maria Island on its signature four-day walk and bed down for a night in the beautifully refurbished Bernacchi House . There’s also petite Picnic Island in Freycinet and the luxe private Satellite Island, to name but a few.

the Bruny Island in South Tasmania — Hop on a ferry across to Bruny Island. (Image: Pauline Morrissey)

2. Kangaroo Island, SA

Travelling with: Lara Picone

As far as playing island bingo goes, South Australia’s Kangaroo Island has plenty to cross off your game card. There’s inviting waters, white-sand beaches, photogenic landscapes, sea lions, history, wonderful produce and wine, and luxury lodgings (such as the impeccable Southern Ocean Lodge or Wander ) to budget camping. It also has an intriguing sense of isolation that is all at once haunting and rejuvenating. The place to live out your cast-adrift fantasies, we’re calling icon status on this Aussie treasure.

Wander on Kangaroo Island is embedded in the coastal wilderness. (Wander/ Remy Brand Creative)

3. Sleep by Ningaloo Reef at Sal Salis, WA

Travelling with: Katie Carlin

Sal Salis is designed to connect you to your surroundings: the placement of its tents captures the coastal breeze; light pollution restrictions mean views of star-studded night skies; and its location alongside the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef with its 700-plus species of fish, coral gardens and megafauna delivers unforgettable encounters. Travellers come here to swim with whale sharks, hike the ancient paths of Cape Range National Park and fall asleep to the sound of waves crashing against the fringing reef. There’s nowhere else like it.

the Sal Salis off-grid stay at Ningaloo Reef — Go off-grid at Sal Salis.

4. Noosa, Qld

Travelling with: Megan Arkinstall

As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and World Surfing Reserve, this Sunshine Coast region has a stunning and diverse natural environment that will have your eyes watering with the beauty and fragility of it all. Slap on your sunscreen for days spent outdoors on Kabi Kabi Country, from lingering on the golden sands of Main Beach to surfing the ‘Points’ and walking the scenic tracks in lush, forested Noosa National Park. Hiring a boat to cruise along Noosa River and the swirling sands of Noosa Spit and kayaking the wildlife-rich Noosa Everglades also make for immersive adventures.

an aerial view of Noosa National Park — Stroll along spectacular coastal walks at Noosa National Park. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Justine Bath)

5. Bellarine Peninsula, Vic

Travelling with: Lara Picone

A short jaunt from Melbourne and Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula often comes as a bit of a surprise for unsuspecting non-Victorians. From the passive waters of Phillip Bay to surfable beaches, towns worthy of a good potter around and unflinching vistas of the rollicking Bass Strait, this region is a mood board for holiday aspirations. Add to this a mussel tour at Portarlington , a summer dip in Point Lonsdale and an oceanside lunch at the locally finessed Tarra in Queenscliff .

a food plate at Tarra in Queenscliff — Tarra in Queenscliff is a favoured spot for beachfront dining. (Image: Chris McConville)

6. Norfolk Island

Travelling with: Lara Picone

Norfolk Island is an anomaly of absorbing beauty and astonishing history. As an external territory of Australia bobbing in the South Pacific, it’s wholly unique with a swashbuckling culture descended from British mutineers of The Bounty and their Polynesian families. Windex-hued waters, coral reefs and austere cliffs make for a landscape of enrapturing beauty, while the island’s Pitcairn culture is rich in community and warmth. Visit once and Norfolk will occupy space in your heart ever after.

a scenic view of Norfolk Island — Norfolk Island is a gem of the South Pacific that is worth exploring. (Image: Tourism Australia)

7. Gold Coast, Qld

Travelling with: Lara Picone

Suddenly a few kids deep and hankering for sunny, margarita-filled days? It may never be the same, but the good news is the Gold Coast is here for this life phase. As the ultimate family destination for generations, the sun still shines, swimming spots such as Tallebudgera still sparkle and theme parks still beckon, from Dreamworld to Wet ’n’ Wild. Stay at JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa or Dorsett Gold Coast for grown-up (but kid-friendly) fun.

a family relaxing at Tallebudgera Creek — Enjoy a beachside picnic at Tallebudgera Creek. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Jesse Lindemann

8. Chill at Elements of Byron, NSW

Travelling with: Lara Picone

Byron Bay’s appeal retains its lustre in perpetuity. There are tangible reasons for this, such as easy access, indisputable beauty, good surf and an aesthetic that seems to embody coolness. There are also more esoteric reasons that are often clutchingly described as the ‘Byron vibe’. Boutique accommodation has recently surged with plenty of mid-to-luxe options, but the reliably chill Elements of Byron remains a classic place to experience this ‘vibe’.

an aerial view of Byron Bay — Byron Bay is surrounded by incredible nature and an underwater ecosystem. (Image: Jeff Julia)

A world away from the hustle, bustle and chaos of the big smoke – yet with a distinct sense of familiarity – Victoria’s Wimmera Mallee region is an incomparable place.

Victoria’s Grampians are a visual feast, a seemingly endless vista of craggy cliffs, rolling valleys and untamed bushland. But they’re also much more than a scenic mountain landscape. Diverse and storied, each region within the range has its own rhythm. The Wimmera Mallee – a pocket in the state’s north-west, stretching from Horsham to near Mildura – is one of the most captivating.

Once known as Victoria’s agricultural heartland, the Wimmera Mallee has evolved in recent years into a dynamic, slightly offbeat hub. It buzzes with a creative hum and welcoming energy, and harbours an eclectic mix of long-time locals and tree-changers. Once you encounter its unmistakable charm, feel its warm country hospitality and taste its nationally celebrated vanilla slice, you may find yourself lingering longer than planned.

Eager to explore? These must-visit spots let you experience the inimitable spirit of this special part of the world.

Wimmera Mallee’s quirky attractions

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

If you’re after something a little more unconventional, the Wimmera Mallee delivers in droves.

The Dimboola Imaginarium – located in a historic bank building in its namesake town – is a gift shop and boutique accommodation in one. Shop for unique and whimsical keepsakes, stay overnight in an elegant themed room, and lose yourself in one of the Imaginarium’s interactive experiences.

Also in Dimboola, just a short drive from the Imaginarium, is a menagerie of utter delight. Tiny Goats and Co. is home to a herd of miniature goats, with the farm offering group visits and special events like goat yoga and cuddle sessions.

Arcade aficionados should visit the Australian Pinball Museum in nearby Nhill. Here, you’ll find the biggest selection of playable pinball machines in the country, featuring modern models and classics dating all the way back to 1931.

Arts and culture in Wimmera Mallee

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed — Step into history at the Stick Shed. (Image: Visit Vic)

As a thoroughly creative community, it’s no wonder the Wimmera Mallee has a host of venues focused on its rich arts and culture scene.

Wander Trickbots Metal Art & Sculpture Garden in Nullawil, a winding trail filled with unique and quirky creations fashioned from metal odds, ends and scrap. A walk through the garden is inspiring enough, but consider buying a piece to take home and treasure.

The town of Nhill also has a significant Karen-Burmese refugee community, who make up 10 per cent of the local population. Discover the artistry of this vibrant culture at Paw Po , where you can purchase traditional hand-woven and textile products. Choose from a selection of beautifully crafted homewares, fashion and dolls.

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed , the only WWII emergency grain store still standing today. This National Heritage-listed structure takes you on a journey through the region’s agricultural past and is a dramatic sight with its towering and eerily striking timber poles.

Nature escapes around Wimmera Mallee

pink Lake Tyrrel, Wimmera Mallee, Victoria Australia — Take in the pink hues of Lake Tyrrell. (Image: Visit Vic)

Much like the majestic beauty of the wider Grampians, the Wimmera Mallee is a mélange of serene and spellbinding nature escapes.

Victoria’s pink lakes are famed nationwide, and two of them are found right here. See the flamingo-pink hues of Loch Iel, particularly vivid after a heavy downpour, or the vast and ancient Lake Tyrrell , which turns pink during wet and warm conditions.

The Snowdrift dunes in Wyperfeld National Park are ideal for adventurers. Set amid the area’s semi-arid landscape, the dunes are expansive mounds of sand deposited around 40,000 years ago. Hike or sandboard them and make sure to visit at sunset, when the sand glows golden.

And while some travellers chase the highest peaks, you can see the most modest in the Wimmera Mallee. Standing a mere 43 metres above the surrounding terrain, Mount Wycheproof is considered the smallest registered mountain in the world. Courtesy of its relatively gentle inclines, it’s a lovely spot for a walk and a picnic.

Culinary adventures in Wimmera Mallee

border inn in the Wimmera Mallee — Meet the locals at Border Inn.

As a region rich in agricultural bounty, it’s little surprise the Wimmera Mallee has such a robust and vibrant food scene. The community is fiercely proud of its local produce, showcasing the flavours and heritage of the area.

The Border Inn in the village of Apsley is a quaint country pub and meeting spot for the local community, featuring a classic country menu and warm hospitality.

The Horsham Golf Club is a popular spot for golf buffs with an adjoining bistro and bar. Try a modern twist on hearty favourites while taking in views of the green. For a taste of the area’s vintages, head to Norton Estate Wines – a boutique wine producer and cellar door open weekends.

A Wimmera Mallee jaunt wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famed Sharp’s Bakery in Birchip. Here, you’ll find a velvety vanilla slice that’s been crowned as Australia’s best seven times.

Wimmera Mallee accommodation

Fulham Homestead in wimmera mallee — Escape to Fulham Homestead.

If you’re enjoying an extended trip, you’ll need somewhere to rest. After a day tackling Wyperfeld’s epic dunes, visit Pine Plains Lodge , also in the national park. Built from reclaimed timber planks and logs, and anchored by rugged stone fireplaces, the lodge is a rustic and cosy hideaway.

For a refined yet relaxing escape, head to Fulham Homestead – a gorgeously restored guesthouse on an idyllic working farm, complete with farm animals and scenic vistas. Built in the 1840s, it has all the elegance and charm of its heritage, plus contemporary comforts like a modern kitchen, wi-fi and air-conditioning.

The Hermitage Hotel is Victoria’s oldest inland pub and an equally delightful blend of old and new. The restored rooms are perfectly appointed and adorned with period furnishings and high-quality linens. The pub itself is a favoured food and wine spot among locals and travellers alike.

If camping is more your style, the Lake Lascelles Cabins and Camping (formerly Mallee Bush Retreat) is a sprawling oasis with powered and unpowered sites and snug cabins. The setting is stunning too, the pristine Lake Lascelles sitting right in its centre.

Annual events

Wimmera Mallee Nhill Aviation Museum — Time your visit to Nhill Aviation Museum for the annual air show.

You may not need an excuse to revisit the Wimmera Mallee, but these annual and bi-annual events will almost certainly have you returning again and again.

Each year, the Lake Chalegrark Country Music Marathon takes over the town for a spectacular line-up of musicians from around Australia. The event is easygoing, family-friendly, and set in scenic surrounds on the shores of Lake Charlegrark.

Every two years, the region holds colourful events like the Wimmera Steampunk Festival , a raucous celebration of 19th-century steampunk culture with a different theme each time; the Nhill Air Show , which features jaw-dropping aerial stunts, aircraft displays, music, activities and more; and the Nati Frinj , a festival of art, culture and performance showcasing the many talents of the Natimuk community.

From the quirky to the tasty, start planning at visitwimmeramallee.com.au

8 coastal getaways that offer the perfect seaside reset

Whether you cast yourself away to a timeless holiday town, picturesque peninsula or off-grid escape, Australia’s beaches, bays and islands are your ticket to exploring our great outdoors.

1. Tasmania’s islands

2. Kangaroo Island, SA

3. Sleep by Ningaloo Reef at Sal Salis, WA

4. Noosa, Qld

5. Bellarine Peninsula, Vic

6. Norfolk Island

7. Gold Coast, Qld

8. Chill at Elements of Byron, NSW

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A world away from the hustle, bustle and chaos of the big smoke – yet with a distinct sense of familiarity – Victoria’s Wimmera Mallee region is an incomparable place.

Wimmera Mallee’s quirky attractions

Arts and culture in Wimmera Mallee

Nature escapes around Wimmera Mallee

Culinary adventures in Wimmera Mallee

Wimmera Mallee accommodation

Annual events