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.

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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)

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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)

There’s more to Australia’s Garden City than meets the eye.

With Victorian-era and traditional Queenslander buildings, an abundance of manicured gardens and the famous Carnival of Flowers painting the streets in vibrant colours each spring, Toowoomba is one of the most charming regional cities in Queensland Country.

While its beauty alone is reason enough to visit, there are lesser-known sides to Toowoomba that locals love most, from its burgeoning culinary scene to its artistic flair. Located just a 90-minute drive from Brisbane (or a direct flight from Sydney), it’s all too easy to discover on a long weekend away.

1. There’s an awesome local arts scene

tour group walking in front of toowoomba street art — Find incredible works of art around Toowoomba’s streets. (Credit: Nathan McNeil)

Australia’s second largest inland city is a flourishing arts and culture hub waiting to be discovered. Over 100 vibrant street art murals and graffiti works decorate the city, and they’re best viewed along Bank Lane and Searles Walk.

Regional Queensland’s oldest public art gallery can also be found in Toowoomba – it’s home to 20th-century Australian works created by Queensland artists and those connected to the Toowoomba region.

2. It has world-class farm-to-table dining

rosalie house aerial toowoomba secrets — Stop into Rosalie House to wine and dine.

As a regional city, Toowoomba has direct access to incredibly fresh produce that’s shaping its culinary scene. At sunset, head to the verandah at Rosalie House Cellar Door Restaurant for a grazing-style dining experience and to discover Queensland’s underrated wine scene. Indulge in dishes such as Warilba lamb rump and roasted pumpkin with ginger-roasted potatoes and lime yoghurt, paired with their delicious cool-climate wines.

For a more relaxed affair, sweet tooths should make a beeline for award-winning The Baker’s Duck. Be sure to try their cult favourite strawberry cheesecake danish; you’ll learn why 35,000 of these treats are sold annually.

3. Small bars are doing big work

table spread at Uno Más small bar in toowoomba secrets — Pop into small bars like Uno Más.

Toowoomba doesn’t disappoint with fantastic pubs, but discerning drinkers can take happy hour to the next level at one of the city’s impressive small bars. Savour Spanish-style bites paired with a thoughtful line-up of wines at the newly opened Uno Más Tapas & Wine Bar. On Thursdays, head to Cork & Lever to tap your feet to live music over creative cocktails made with their all-Australian gin collection. And enjoy elevated toasties and premium drops at the cosy Press’d Coffee & Wine. Or try newly opened The Book Pour.

4. There’s no shortage of fabulous stays

Whether you prefer the buzz of the city centre or retreating to the hinterland, there are stylish stays aplenty to settle into in this idyllic corner of the world. Apartment-style living can be found at Quest Toowoomba; partly housed in a heritage church building in the city, it’s a comfortable and convenient base. And at The Arbour Boutique Apartments, spacious rooms are injected with old-world charm.

In the hinterland, enjoy bucolic bliss at the boutique Bunnyconnellen, where an 1880s farmhouse and self-contained cottage are backdropped by rolling hills. And at the secluded Ravensbourne Escape, one-bedroom studios, two-bedroom chalets and three-bedroom holiday homes overlook Ravensbourne National Park and the Brisbane and Lockyer Valleys.

5. It’s a nature-lovers paradise

extinct volcanic peak Table Top Mountain — Tackle Table Top Mountain. (Credit: Ariana Potamianakis)

Toowoomba is hugged by national parks, making it a haven for nature lovers. On its doorstep you’ll find the extinct volcanic peak Table Top Mountain, where keen hikers can tackle the challenging two-kilometre return trail which rewards them with 360° views of the Lockyer Valley and surrounds.

For a more gentle experience, Ravensbourne National Park offers peaceful walking trails within lush rainforest. It’s a top spot for bird watching as there are over 110 bird species that call the area home, including the paradise riflebird. Crows Nest National Park is home to platypus and koalas, and its refreshing natural swimming spots, like Kauyoo Pool, are a great place to beat the heat.

6. Wellness enthusiasts are well looked after

Toowoomba’s cool and calm energy lends itself to a wellness-focused getaway. Slated to open in August 2026, soak in the serenity at Vikasati Toowoomba, a bathhouse oasis with outdoor hot and cold magnesium pools, ice baths and Finnish saunas. Rest and recharge at City Cave Toowoomba, which offers float therapy, infrared sauna and massage services, or visit Kalm Springs for LED therapy, cryotherapy and float therapy.

7. It’s preserved its 19th-century charm

inside Queensland Museum Cobb + Co — Learn all about the history of Cobb+Co.

History buffs can step back in time at Toowoomba’s fascinating cultural and historical museums.

Explore 50,000 years of Darling Downs and Toowoomba history at the Queensland Museum Cobb+Co; it’s known for its impressive National Carriage Collection of 47 restored horse-drawn vehicles, which were put to use for Queensland’s urban expansion. Visitors can also try their hand at blacksmithing or leadlighting in heritage workshops, refuelling with traditional scones at the onsite cafe.

Train enthusiasts can celebrate the golden era of rail travel on a heritage steam locomotive thanks to the volunteer-driven, community-led organisation DownsSteam Toowoomba. Vintage train rides range from a two-hour journey between Toowoomba Station and DownsSteam Railway Museum to an overnight adventure from Toowoomba to the Southern Downs and Granite Belt

8. There are vintage gems waiting to be found

Whether it’s to pick up a unique piece for your home or a one-of-a-kind accessory for a loved one, you’re guaranteed to find something special in one of Toowoomba’s antique and vintage stores. Range Antiques sells everything from furniture, rugs and lamps to fine porcelain, jewellery and art, while Toowoomba Antiques & Collectables is a treasure trove of Art Deco, farmhouse, retro and mid-century modern pieces.

Start planning your weekender of a lifetime in Queensland Country region at queenslandcountrytourism.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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There’s more to Australia’s Garden City than meets the eye.

1. There’s an awesome local arts scene

2. It has world-class farm-to-table dining

3. Small bars are doing big work

4. There’s no shortage of fabulous stays

5. It’s a nature-lovers paradise

6. Wellness enthusiasts are well looked after

7. It’s preserved its 19th-century charm

8. There are vintage gems waiting to be found

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

AI Prompt

4. Noosa, Qld

5. Bellarine Peninsula, Vic

6. Norfolk Island

7. Gold Coast, Qld

8. Chill at Elements of Byron, NSW

30 stunning spring festivals around Australia

These two secluded cabins have been designed to put your dog first

What’s on around Australia in September 2026

11 stunning spring towns you need to visit

There’s more to Australia’s Garden City than meets the eye.

1. There’s an awesome local arts scene

2. It has world-class farm-to-table dining

3. Small bars are doing big work

4. There’s no shortage of fabulous stays

5. It’s a nature-lovers paradise

6. Wellness enthusiasts are well looked after

7. It’s preserved its 19th-century charm

8. There are vintage gems waiting to be found