The best Easter holiday destinations in Australia for 2025

Emily Murphy Emily Murphy
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Maximise the Easter long weekend with an unforgettable Aussie escape. 

Easter in 2025 falls on 20 April, right before Anzac Day, making it the perfect time to maximise your annual leave and head on a well-deserved getaway. From vibrant city events to serene road trips, these are the best places to spend your Easter break across Australia. 

1. Margaret River, Western Australia 

Contos Beach at Easter
Margaret River is a destination to clear your mind. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

If fine wine and gourmet food are on your Easter wish list, Margaret River in Western Australia is the place to be. Also one of Australia’s prettiest autumn towns, Margaret River is renowned for its world-class wineries, a plethora of craft breweries and farm-to-table dining, but also boasts stunning beaches and ancient caves.  

The annual Gracetown Bay Swim, held each year on Easter Saturday, is a must for your Easter stay. Suitable for swimmers of all abilities, you can swim to win or go at your own pace. The one-kilometre course begins and ends at Gracetown’s main beach, just a 15-20 min drive from Margaret River. 

2. Sydney, NSW 

Crowds enjoying the carnival rides at the Sydney Royal Easter Show, Sydney Showground at Sydney Olympic Park.
You can’t miss the Sydney Royal Easter Show. (Image: Destination NSW)

One of Sydney’s biggest annual events, the Sydney Royal Easter Show (11–22 April 2025) is a must for families. Held at Sydney Olympic Park, it showcases agricultural displays, thrilling carnival rides, live entertainment and its famous show bags. After the excitement, indulge in Sydney’s vibrant food scene and explore the best things to do in Sydney, including scenic coastal walks, immersive cultural experiences and historic sites.  

3. The Grampians, Victoria 

Grampians National Park on Easter
The Grampians are breathtaking. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you prefer a nature-filled Easter, the Grampians National Park in Victoria offers stunning scenery, breathtaking waterfalls and incredible wildlife. For a truly immersive experience, consider taking a road trip from Melbourne. This scenic journey showcases the region’s diverse landscapes and offers opportunities for wildlife spotting, local dining and cultural experiences along the way. 

4. Noosa, Queensland

Noosa Beach activities on Easter
Noosa is less crowded at Easter. (Image: Tourism Events Queensland)

For a relaxing Easter by the water, Noosa is unbeatable. With its calm, north-facing beaches, Noosa National Park and a buzzing dining scene, it’s ideal for families and couples alike. The nearby Glass House Mountains offer stunning hikes, while Australia Zoo is a great day out for wildlife lovers. 

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5. Kangaroo Island, South Australia 

Kangaroo Island Park on Easter
Spot koalas on Kangaroo Island. (Image: Julie Fletcher)

South Australia’s Kangaroo Island is a hidden gem perfect for an Easter escape. Not only are there more things to do than you could possibly fit into one trip, including the countless dreamy beaches, the delectable wineries and the awe-inspiring hikes, but it’s also one of the best places in Australia to see wild animals like koalas, kangaroos, sea lions and seals. Add on a to-die-for food and beverage scene and some diverse accommodation options, and you’ve got yourself a winning Easter holiday.

6. Uluṟu, Northern Territory 

Uluru Field of Light on Easter
Immerse your senses in Bruce Munro’s stunning Field of Light. (Image: Tourism NT/Ray Reyes)

Easter is an excellent time to visit Uluṟu, with cooler temperatures making outdoor exploration more comfortable. Take a guided tour around the base of Uluṟu, experience the breathtaking Field of Light installation and explore Kata Tjuṯa. The cultural significance of this region makes it a deeply enriching Easter destination.

7. Cradle Mountain, Tasmania 

hiking Cradle Mountain, Tasmania on Easter
The stunning hike trails of Cradle Mountain are worth the uphill effort. (Image: Jess Bonde)

For a cosy, nature-filled Easter, Cradle Mountain in Tasmania offers crisp air, stunning hikes and the chance to see wombats in the wild. Stay in a dreamy lodge, explore the wonderful things to do, refuel at the area’s best restaurants and enjoy Tasmania’s pristine wilderness.  

8. Canberra, ACT 

Visiting Australian Memorial War on Easter
Pay homage to the nation’s fallen heroes at the Australian War Memorial. (Image: Visit Canberra)

Canberra is our small but mighty capital, and Easter is the perfect time to visit. April in Canberra will be a bit chilly so make sure you rug up and get ready to explore. There’s a bunch of stuff to do that’ll suit whatever it is you’re looking for in Canberra. Explore Canberra’s museums and galleries to get out of the cold, cosy up at one of the iconic brunch spots or spend the afternoon wetting the whistle at a cute bar. 

9. Ningaloo Reef, WA

swimming with whale sharks on Easter
Swim with whale sharks in Ningaloo. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

For an Easter adventure like no other, head to Ningaloo Reef and swim with whale sharks. April is the peak season for spotting these gentle giants, and the clear turquoise waters make for incredible snorkelling and diving. Tack on a stay at the unbelievable Sal Salis for one of Australia’s most spectacular experiences. 

10. The Hunter Valley, NSW 

Harkham Restaurant on Easter
The Hunter Valley is a relaxed Easter destination. (Image: Nikki To)

For a more relaxed Easter escape in NSW, head to the Hunter Valley. Just a short drive from Sydney, this renowned wine region is perfect for couples and families alike. Enjoy wine tastings at world-class vineyards, indulge in gourmet food experiences or take a hot air balloon ride over the stunning countryside. The Hunter Valley Gardens also hosts a fantastic Easter celebration, complete with egg hunts, farm animals and kids’ activities. 

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11. The Great Ocean Road, Vic 

Twelve Apostles road trip on Easter
Nothing beats a trip to the incredible Twelve Apostles. (Image: Visit Victoria)

For an iconic road trip experience, drive along The Great Ocean Road this Easter. Marvel at the Twelve Apostles, explore the charming coastal towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay and take in the dramatic cliffs and stunning ocean views. The Great Ocean Road offers fantastic walking trails, waterfalls and treetop adventures, making it a great stop for families and nature lovers alike. 

12. Barossa Valley, SA 

Barossa Valley vinery on Easter
Barossa Valley is home to some of the oldest vines in Australia. (Image: Torbreck Vintners)

For wine lovers, there’s no better place to spend Easter than the Barossa Valley. Just an hour from Adelaide, this iconic wine region is famous for its shiraz, gourmet food and historic vineyards. Enjoy wine tastings at legendary wineries, dine at award-winning restaurants, stay in luxury accommodation and explore charming villages, Easter markets and food festivals, to make this a perfect long weekend getaway. 

13. The Gold Coast, Qld 

Cali Beach getaway on Easter
Enjoy sun-soaked days on the Gold Coast. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

With golden beaches, thrilling theme parks, and plenty of family-friendly activities, the Gold Coast is a top pick for Easter. Enjoy sun-soaked days at Surfers Paradise, Burleigh Heads or Currumbin Beach. For adventure seekers, the Gold Coast’s theme parks offer rides and attractions for all ages. Easter also coincides with ideal weather for whale watching along the coast. 

14. Newcastle, NSW

Young people enjoying a swim at Bogey Hole ocean pools in Newcastle at sunrise.
Visit this underrated coastal city for Easter. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap the hustle and bustle for a beachy break in Newcastle this Easter. Just under three hours from Sydney by train, this underrated coastal city is the ideal blend of sun, surf, culture and seriously good food. Check-in at Little National Hotel Newcastle, a sleek, design-led stay tucked into the city’s vibrant harbourfront. The rooms are compact yet luxurious, complete with minimalist design touches that exude calm.

Planning your Easter 2025 trip 

With Easter being a peak travel time, it’s best to book accommodation and activities in advance. Many destinations offer unique seasonal experiences, making this one of the best times of year to explore Australia’s diverse landscapes.  

Emily Murphy
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her time at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.
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The secret Sydney suite life: a luxury under-the-radar stay right on the harbour

    Kate Bettes Kate Bettes
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    This winter, these secret Sydney harbour suites are the staycation we’ve been looking for.

    Whether it’s the crisscrossing ferries or the white sails of the Opera House rising out of blue depths, Australia’s biggest city lives for its harbour. But while locals might glance at that watery expanse on their daily commute across the Bridge, it can still be hard to truly connect with Sydney’s maritime soul. The secret: seeing the harbour eye-to-eye, right at water level. And what better place to submerge yourself in that energy than sleeping there? That’s where Pier One Sydney Harbour comes in (and with new all-inclusive bed and breakfast benefits, there’s even more to love).

    All-inclusive VIP benefits

    Who Is Elijah Amenities at Pier One Sydney Harbour
    Book in for the all-inclusive VIP treatment.

    The hard truth is that it will be very difficult to tear yourself away from your ultra-luxurious harbour home-away-from-home to explore the city. If you want to make leaving even harder, opt for Pier One’s all-inclusive VIP treatment.

    The Bed and Breakfast with Suite Benefits package turns up the volume on what is already the ultimate staycation, with complimentary valet parking, daily breakfast for two and turndown service. The biggest perk? Enjoy a bottle of French champagne every day during your whole stay

    Pier One Sydney Harbour

    Pier One Sydney Harbour
    Step into a piece of history with all the modern comforts. (Credit: Dave Wheeler)

    The five-star Pier One Sydney Harbour is quite literally old Sydney through and through. Built on what was once a working cargo wharf and the passenger terminal for those heading to the North Shore before the bridge was constructed, the heritage building sits right between the tangle of cobblestones, pubs and alleyways of The Rocks and the historic docking zone of Walsh Bay – at the centre of the city’s old sea trade.

    If knowing the hotel’s history isn’t enough to get your sea-longing going, the interior design certainly will. As soon as you step up to the concierge desk in the lobby of the restored building – which underwent a $15 million redevelopment in 2019 – you’re immersed in Sydney’s seafaring tale. Weathered wood panelling and white marble floors surround you, while loop lighting installations hover above the bar island just beyond, ringed with stools ready for intimate, martini-tinted conversations. Steel rivets and timber beams speak to its past, and glass-walled views anchor you firmly in the present-day life on the harbour.

    Pier One Suites

    Pier One Sydney Harbour admiral suite
    Enjoy incredible views from your suite.

    Across the 189 rooms and suites built on and over the water, the maritime theme continues. Sculptural aged brass fittings, exposed girders, colour schemes that evoke shifting currents, and mirrors that reflect ripples that – depending on your booking – sit just metres from your pillow.

    United on theme yet unique in set-up, each room or suite is different. On the ground floor, dog-friendly rooms with direct access to the pier are all prepped for pampered pups, while others have views and even balconies overlooking Walsh Bay, the Bridge and the Harbour.

    But the 19 suites step things up even more. Gaze out through floor-to-ceiling windows, or get even closer. Your private balcony is made for sipping a Nespresso coffee on as the sun comes up – or soaking in the bathtub of the Admiral Suite on the deck, a drink from the locally stocked mini bar in hand. This mini bar was recently completely transformed, so you have more Aussie favourites to choose from, including alcohol and snacks.

    Dining at Pier One

    Pier Bar Pier One Sydney Harbour
    Settle in for an afternoon of good drinks and views.

    Once you’re checked in, start your afternoon with a spritz at PIER BAR – or arrive by boat via the private pontoon if the occasion calls for it – and settle into one of the cabanas. Weekdays bring Happy Hour (or ‘sunset hour’ at Pier One); weekends bring the DJs. After an even sweeter experience? The Everyday Creamery and Matcha Kiosk is slinging mango and vanilla soft serve – classic and those spiked with Midori and gin alike.

    PIER Dining is an ode to contemporary Australian flavours across the terrace, pier and dining room. On its seafood-leaning menu are Sydney rock oysters from Merimbula, potato scallops with salmon roe and crème fraîche, chicken with melting sundried tomato butter, vodka rigatoni with Shark Bay prawns. And the ‘Pierlova’ – that’s pavlova with chocolate, dulce de leche and banana is worth saving room for. Make sure to ask for the wine list – it’s 100 per cent Australian drops.

    Around town

    luna park, sydney opera house and sydney harbour bridge
    Explore the neighbourhood during your stay. (Credit: Destination NSW)

    If you’re strong enough to polish off just one last pastry from the breakfast buffet and walk out the door, we applaud you. Luna Park across the harbour beckons with its wide grin, while a glance upward might spur you to climb the Bridge’s famous iron arches. The Opera House – just across Circular Quay from the Museum of Contemporary Art – sings out for a concert.

    You’ll want to book ahead for those hot-ticket performances at Sydney Theatre Company and Sydney Dance Company, just a few minutes’ walk south of the hotel. Ten minutes further brings you to the waterfront bars, restaurants and clubs of Barangaroo, or the karaoke, gardens and dim sum of Chinatown further afield.

    Keep the mellow of your weekend getaway going with a stop at Barangaroo Reserve, watching the yachts go by – all before returning for that Sydney sundowner at Pier One.

    Ready to make that Pier One stay a reality? Book the ultimate Sydney staycation at pieronesydneyharbour.com.au