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The best last-minute Easter getaways you can still book

From luxury lodges and coastal resorts to outback adventures and cruise deals, these Easter getaways prove there’s still time to escape.

As autumn starts to kick in, the Easter break is our last chance to catch the tail-end of warmer weather before the mercury plummets. And with Easter just weeks away, Australians might assume the best holiday deals are long gone. But there are still plenty of last-minute escapes available across the country and beyond.

From discounted luxury stays to family packages and cruise departures over the long weekend, these are some of the standout Easter offers you can still snap up.

1. A Top End wildlife safari

Bamurru Plains
The Australian safari camp is home to some of the country’s most spectacular bird and wildlife. (Credit: Hels Orr)

If you’ve ever wanted to experience the Top End like a safari destination, Bamurru Plains delivers exactly that. Set on the vast floodplains west of Kakadu National Park, this luxury wilderness lodge is known for its immersive wildlife encounters, where guests can spot buffalo, wallabies and prolific birdlife from open-air safari bungalows.

The all-inclusive experience includes guided airboat safaris, wildlife drives and bush walks, along with gourmet meals and beverages served in the lodge’s elevated dining pavilion overlooking the wetlands. For Easter travellers, the property is offering 10 per cent off selected stays between April and May, with prices starting from $5090 per room for two nights. Families can also take advantage of an April bonus where one child stays free.

2. A luxury escape in the Blue Mountains

Echoes Boutique Hotel
Delight in a charming local stay at Echoes Boutique Hotel.
Easter High Tea at Hydro Majestic Hotel
Easter High Tea at Hydro Majestic Hotel.
Lilianfels resort
Lilianfels resort captures sweeping views of the Jamison Valley.
Parklands Country Gardens & Lodges
Parklands Country Gardens & Lodges is nestled in the quaint village of Blackheath.

Autumn is one of the most atmospheric times to visit the Blue Mountains, and several boutique stays are sweetening the deal this Easter. Guests booking an autumn stay at Hydro Majestic Hotel, Lilianfels Resort & Spa, Echoes Boutique Hotel & Restaurant or Parklands Country Gardens & Lodges will receive 12pm early check-in or late check-out, 10 per cent off dining and drinks and a seasonal welcome amenity.

Easter Sunday egg hunts will also take place at Parklands, Hydro Majestic and Lilianfels, while the Hydro Majestic’s Wintergarden Restaurant will host a special Easter High Tea from 3 to 6 April, priced from $99 per person or $134 with free-flow sparkling wine. The offer is valid for new bookings made until 30 April 2026, for stays until 31 May 2026.

3. A Tasmanian east coast adventure

Bridestowe Lavender Estate
Bridestowe creates high-quality lavender products and welcomes visitors from across the world. (Credit: Luke Tscharke)
Wineglass Bay
Aerial view of the Wineglass Bay. (Credit: Luke Tscharke)
Duck Reach Power Station
The historic Duck Reach Power Station. (Credit: Tourism Tasmania/Nick H Visuals)

Tasmania’s east coast is one of Australia’s most spectacular road-trip regions, and AAT Kings’ Tassie’s East Coast Highlights tour packages the best of it into a five-day guided journey from Launceston to Hobart.

The itinerary takes travellers through Freycinet National Park, home to the iconic pink-hued sweep of Wineglass Bay, as well as historic sites like Port Arthur and charming regional stops including a lavender farm. Along the way, guests travel with expert guides and enjoy curated experiences designed to showcase Tasmania’s landscapes, produce and history.

The tour is priced from $2650 per person, making it a great option for travellers who want a structured Easter getaway without the hassle of planning every stop.

4. A country Easter in the Queensland hinterland

Spicers Hidden Vale
Experience farm-to-table dining at Spicers Hidden Vale. (Credit: Hamilton Lund Photographer)

At Spicers Hidden Vale in Grandchester, just an hour from Brisbane, guests can celebrate Easter with a relaxed country escape complete with egg hunts, lawn games, live entertainment and seasonal dining. Set against the retreat’s picturesque rural backdrop, the Easter package is priced from $661 per night for two guests in a Valley View room, with event tickets from $49 per child and $99 per adult.

5. A luxury Sydney stay near the Opera House

Paradox Sydney
Paradox Sydney is set within a heritage-listed architectural masterpiece dating from 1856.

Another strong city-break option is Paradox Sydney, just moments from Circular Quay. You can book a two-night stay from $779 in a Premier Room Atrium View, with three-night packages from $1104.

The deal includes daily buffet breakfast at Lady Fairfax Room, a $50 dining credit, a welcome house wine, beer or soft drink per guest at The Fax Bar, and guaranteed 1pm late checkout for two guests. The offer ends 30 March 2026, with travel available until 31 March 2027.

6. A Japanese wellness retreat in Victoria

Shizuka Ryokan
A peaceful Japanese escape awaits at Shizuka Ryokan. (Credit: Emily Godfrey)

For a slower Easter escape focused on relaxation, Shizuka Ryokan in Hepburn Springs offers a Japanese-inspired wellness retreat just over an hour from Melbourne.

The three-night wellness package blends traditional Japanese hospitality with restorative treatments, including Japanese bathing rituals, yoga and meditation sessions, reflexology and aromatherapy massages, as well as a partner yoga and massage experience. Guests are also treated to a multi-course omakase banquet dinner, complete with sake tasting.

Prices start from $1110 per person, with 10 per cent off bookings made until 31 March for stays between 2 and 17 April using code: Easter Getaway, making it a peaceful Easter option for travellers seeking a full mind-and-body reset.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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7. A luxury wildlife escape in the Flinders Ranges

Arkaba Homestead
Arkaba is a private wildlife conservancy. (Credit: Tracey Experience Co)
Arkaba Homestead
Stay in the historic homestead. (Credit: Randy Larcombe)

If you want to combine luxury with nature, Arkaba Homestead offers an unforgettable stay in the heart of South Australia’s Ikara-Flinders Ranges.

Set within a 25,500-hectare private wildlife conservancy, the property was once a working sheep station and is now dedicated to conservation and immersive outback experiences. Guests can explore the rugged ranges through guided walks, wildlife drives and scenic tours, while evenings are spent enjoying gourmet dining under expansive outback skies.

The all-inclusive stay starts from $5770 per room for two nights, and guests can save 10 per cent on selected stays between April and May, making Easter a perfect time to experience the region’s dramatic landscapes and cooler autumn temperatures.

8. A family-friendly Cairns holiday

Pullman Cairns
Contemporary luxury meets Far North Queensland charm. (Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)
Crystalbrook Riley
Crystalbrook Riley's chic, private, European-inspired pool cabana. (Credit: Tourism Australia)
Novotel Cairns
Novotel is a tropical retreat in the heart of Cairns.

The main Tropical North Queensland hub has several Easter deals on the table. At Crystalbrook Riley, families can book a five-night package that includes daily breakfast at Paper Crane for two adults and two children, a Green Island Eco Adventure excursion, 10 per cent off dining across Crystalbrook’s Cairns restaurants and bars, and complimentary bike hire.

Nearby, Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort is offering its Reef Creatures Family Escape from $450 per room for two nights, including family accommodation, daily buffet breakfast and general admission to Cairns Aquarium. Children aged 15 and under stay and eat breakfast free, and Accor members can save an additional five per cent. The deal is available to book until 31 March 2026 for travel until March 2027.

There’s also a Stay 3, Pay 2 offer at Pullman Cairns International, where families get a complimentary third night, with kids 11 and under staying free and receiving complimentary breakfast. Guests travelling over Easter can also enjoy festive extras, including a Good Friday seafood buffet, sunset BBQ with fire performance and an Easter Sunday egg hunt, alongside school holiday kids’ activities. Book by 31 March for travel until 30 April.

9. A coastal Terrigal escape

Crowne Plaza Terrigal
Crowne Plaza Terrigal offers a family-friendly beachside escape.

If you’re craving a classic NSW beach getaway, Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific has a tempting coastal escape available.

The hotel’s Winter Escape package starts from $529 for two nights and includes daily buffet breakfast for two adults, secure car parking, a bottle of wine on arrival and 25 per cent off food and drinks across the hotel’s restaurants and bars. Overlooking the iconic Terrigal Beach, the property makes a great base for seaside walks, ocean swims and relaxed long lunches.

The deal must be booked by 12 March 2026, with stays available until 24 September 2026, making it a flexible option for an Easter or autumn getaway.

10. A stylish Melbourne CBD stay

Next Hotel
Next Hotel is located in city’s east end district.

Luxury Escapes is offering a stay at Next Hotel Melbourne from $549 for two nights in a Next Queen Room, with three-night packages from $799. The Manhattan-style hotel sits right in the heart of the CBD.

The deal includes a generous $150 dining and drinks credit per package to use across the hotel’s onsite venues, plus guaranteed 12pm late checkout for two guests. The offer ends 27 March 2026, with travel available until 31 March 2027.

11. A remote outback lodge escape in Queensland

Mt Mulligan Lodge
The luxury lodge invokes the spirit of adventure in the Queensland outback.

If you’d rather go big this Easter, Mt Mulligan Lodge in outback Queensland is offering a luxe all-inclusive stay from $1253 per person for two guests. The experience includes four nights, all gourmet meals, beverages, mini bar and signature experiences, with accommodation in the property’s contemporary Outback Retreat overlooking the weir and Mount Mulligan’s fiery rock face.

Guests who linger a little longer can also enjoy 10 per cent off when booking four nights or more.

12. A wine region balloon flight at sunrise

Balloon Aloft
Balloon Aloft offered the first passenger balloons in Australia in 1980. (Credit: Destination NSW)

For something memorable, Balloon Aloft is offering $50 off general adult tickets during autumn, with Easter flights included in the sale. Sunrise hot-air balloon experiences depart from spectacular locations including Camden, Mudgee, the Hunter Valley and Byron Bay, with each flight followed by a gourmet breakfast celebration at a local restaurant or winery.

13. A luxury wilderness walk in Tasmania

Two wombats on Maria Island in tasmania
Spot wombats on Maria Island.
Landscape shot of Maria Island Walk in Tasmania
The Maria Island Walk is incredibly scenic.

The Maria Island Walk offers a guided four-day, three-night escape through one of Tasmania’s most wildlife-rich national parks, with pristine beaches, coastal trails, chef-prepared meals and remote camp stays all part of the experience. Prices start from $3350 per person twin share, making it a bucket-list Easter option for walkers wanting something truly immersive.

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14. A relaxed Sunshine Coast beach escape

Ivory palms Resort in Sunshine Coast
Ivory Palms Resort is taking 15% off stays of 3+ nights.
Essence Peregian Beach pool in Sunshine Coast
Relax knowing you've saved 15% at Essence Peregian Beach.
Glen Eden Beach Resort in Sunshine Coast
Save 15% on 5-night stays at Glen Eden Beach Resort.

Several Sunshine Coast properties are offering tempting Easter deals.

Glen Eden Beach Resort at Peregian Beach is offering 15 per cent off five-night stays, making it a strong pick for a quieter beachfront holiday.

In Noosaville, Ivory Palms Resort is taking 15 per cent off stays of three nights or more with promo code TODAY26, valid for stays from 6 to 19 April 2026 and booked by 13 March 2026.

Essence Peregian Beach is also offering 15 per cent off its Exclusive Easter Escape, plus a bottle of wine on arrival for stays of at least three nights.

Over on Noosa North Shore, Senses Noosa North Shore has a 20 per cent discount, with three-bedroom houses from $520 per night and two return ferry passes included for stays of three nights or more using promo code TODAY.

15. A boutique hotel stay in regional NSW

Gems Hotel family room in griffith NSW
Bring the family along this Easter.

The Gem Hotel in Griffith is offering a Deluxe King Room for $200 per night during the Easter school holiday period, plus 20 per cent off dining at its award-winning European-style steakhouse, Bull & Bell. Travellers can unlock the offer using the code TODAY. It’s a timely excuse to visit during the Griffith Easter Party, which runs from 2 to 6 April.

16. A Red Centre escape near Uluṟu

Desert Gardens Hotel in Uluru
Base yourself at Desert Gardens Hotel. (Credit: Anson Smart)

For a warm-weather Easter break, the Red Centre offers a completely different kind of holiday. At Desert Gardens Hotel, guests can stay from $245 per night, twin share in a Standard Room.

The hotel sits within walking distance of the resort’s restaurants, galleries, cultural experiences, and, of course, Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park. Travellers can spend their days exploring the region’s ancient landscapes, joining guided walks or watching the famous desert sunsets.

The offer is valid for travel between 1 and 15 April 2026, with a minimum three-night stay required, and is available until midnight on 11 March 2026, subject to availability.

17. A coastal getaway in Mollymook or Port Stephens

Bannisters Port Stephens aerial shot
Bannisters Port Stephens is hosting some Easter activities. (Credit: Ben Mack)
Bannisters By The Sea Mollymook Pool Bar
You'll be swimming in extras at Bannisters this Easter.

The Bannisters hotels in Mollymook and Port Stephens are offering Autumn Extras with direct bookings, including 10 per cent off food and beverage, a seasonal in-room treat and early check-in or late check-out, subject to availability.

Over Easter, Bannisters Port Stephens will host family-friendly fun at Cheeky Dog, including live music, a jumping castle and an Easter egg hunt, while both Port Stephens and Mollymook are also dialling up the holiday mood with extended happy hours and live entertainment.

18. A luxury Brisbane stay

Ovolo Brisbane hotel pool in Queensland
Stay in Brisbane luxury for under $600.

Fortitude Valley’s stylish Ovolo Brisbane is offering a two-night luxury stay from $599 in a Valley King, with three-night stays from $899. The package includes a guaranteed upgrade from Valley Queen to Valley King, daily a la carte breakfast at Kazba, a nightly drink during apero hour, a $50 dining credit, daily valet parking and guaranteed 12pm late checkout for two guests. The offer ends 20 March 2026, with travel available until 30 April 2027.

19. Easter cruises departing Australia

Anthem of the Seas in Sydney Harbour
Depart Sydney on Anthem of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas departs Sydney on 3 April 2026 for an eight-night South Pacific cruise from $2449 per person twin share. From Brisbane, Voyager of the Seas departs on 28 March 2026 for a nine-night South Pacific cruise from $1299 per person twin share (the final Wiggles-themed sailing for the season), and again on 6 April 2026 for an eight-night sailing from $1499 per person twin share.

20. A wine-lover’s escape in Adelaide

Summer Stays with Shaw + Smith at Oval Hotel in Adelaide
Enjoy a wine flight for two at Shaw + Smith’s Adelaide Hills Tasting Room.

Oval Hotel’s Summer Stays with Shaw + Smith package is a love letter to South Australian wine culture. Based at the sleek, stadium-adjacent hotel in Adelaide’s CBD, the deal is priced from $399 per night and includes a welcome bottle of Shaw + Smith sauvignon blanc in your room, a three-course dinner for two at Bespoke Wine Bar & Kitchen on arrival night and a classic wine flight for two at Shaw + Smith’s Adelaide Hills Tasting Room.

Extra nights can be added from $229 per night, with self-parking and wi-fi included throughout. The offer is available for stays until 7 April 2026, making it a compelling Easter option for wine lovers wanting a stylish city base with cellar door access just a short drive away.

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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8 experiences to restart and inspire your senses for 2026

    Katie Dundas Katie Dundas
    Be invigorated by the sights, sounds and landscapes of the Northern Territory.

    If your 2026 travel goals focus on visiting inspiring and meaningful destinations, look no further than the Northern Territory. Rich in Indigenous culture, national parks and unique local cuisine, a journey deep into the Red Centre and Top End will awaken all your senses and leave you with lifelong memories. But you don’t need to do it on your own, as AAT Kings’ Small Group tours offer expertly led itineraries. They’re designed to take the guesswork out of travel planning and help you access remote regions in comfort while connecting with fellow guests, allowing you to delve deeper into destinations with insights from knowledgeable Travel Directors and local Indigenous guides.

    As Small Group tours with AAT Kings have an average of just 16 guests, there’s ample opportunity to ask questions and make meaningful connections on every visit. Here are just a few of the experiences on offer, with adventures designed to invigorate every sense.

    1. Under a Desert Moon dinner

    Under a Desert Moon dinner in northern territory
    Watch the stars come out over five courses.

    Over five courses, dine under the stars during an unforgettable Outback dining experience. As day fades to night, lit only by the moon and the crackling fire, this outdoor dinner features locally sourced seasonal produce, matched with Australian wines.

    It’s an intimate experience, showcasing the quiet grandeur of the Outback after nightfall. As you dine, feel connected to the land and its unique flavours, introduced by your impeccable waitstaff.

    Part of the Northern Territory Dreaming tour, the Under a Desert Moon dinner is the ideal way to connect with your small group of fellow travellers after an invigorating day in the Red Centre.

    2. Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience

    Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience
    Learn stories of the Red Centre at Karrke. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ 75vibes)

    The best way to learn the stories of the Red Centre is by connecting with the land’s Traditional Owners. At the Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience, visited on AAT Kings Northern Territory Dreaming and Outback Contrasts tours, you’ll meet with members of the local Wanmarra community in Kings Canyon.

    On this immersive AAT Kings MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience you’ll walk on Country to learn firsthand about bush tucker, Indigenous medicine, wooden artefacts and the art of dot painting. Passionate guides will share stories that have been passed down for generations.

    3. Kungkas Can Cook

    Kungkas Can Cook set up at Simpson's Gap
    Taste local bush delicacies. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Mel Brautigam)

    The powerful senses of smell and taste are awakened on this exclusive experience led by Indigenous chef Rayleen Brown. Included in the Northern Territory Dreaming and Outback Contrasts tours, this is a unique opportunity to savour local bush delicacies and learn about Indigenous culture through the lens of food.

    Brown, a recipe author and guest judge for MasterChef Australia, works solely with native ingredients directly harvested by women from the Alice Springs community. It’s a 100 per cent Indigenous owned and run business.

    4. Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles)

    woman walking by Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles)
    See striking Karlu Karlu. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Dom And Jesso)

    Appearing out of nowhere, the huge granite boulders of Karlu Karlu seem to precariously balance on the barren Outback landscape. You’ll come across these geological formations as you cruise the Stuart Highway on the Northern Territory Explorer tour.

    Your AAT Kings Travel Director will share expert insight on the history and culture of Karlu Karlu, recognised as a sacred site of the Warumungu people. As you walk in awe amongst these stunning formations, formed many millennia ago, you’ll hear some of the stories behind why this place is so important to Indigenous storytelling and culture.

    5. Pudakul

    Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours
    Experience this family-owned Indigenous experience. (Images: Tourism & Events NT/ Helen Orr)

    Make authentic cultural connections when you visit Pudakul, a family-owned Indigenous experience on the Adelaide River Flood Plains. On your Small Group Northern Territory Explorer tour your senses will be inspired by the sounds of First Nations music, the taste of local bush tucker and the beauty of art.

    This AAT Kings MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience is designed to take you deeper into the destination, helping guests learn from the people of the Limilngan-Wulna Land.

    6. Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise

    Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise
    Spot the wildlife of the billabong. (Image: Tourism & Events NT)

    Observing the unique wildlife of the Northern Territory – from formidable crocs to hearing gentle melodies from the many endemic bird species – is always one of the most memorable parts of your Northern Territory Dreaming tour.

    Travel in the comfort of your premium coach, taking in the stunning landscapes, before arriving at Corroboree Billabong. This special place is part of the Mary River Wetlands and is home to the world’s largest concentration of saltwater crocodiles. Your comfortable boat is designed to maximise wildlife viewing, giving you a front row seat to this spectacular ecosystem.

    7. Aboriginal Bush Traders

    artist at Aboriginal Bush Traders in darwin
    Visit for the art, stay for a bite. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Shaana McNaught)

    A visit to Aboriginal Bush Traders is the ideal introduction to the vibrant city of Darwin. This non-profit gallery, cafe and retail space supports Indigenous employment and is the perfect place to find a curated selection of ethical Indigenous gifts, including artwork and organic skincare.

    Your Northern Territory Top End National Parks and Northern Territory Dreaming tours include an exclusive native flavour tasting, offering cultural insight before travelling deeper into the Top End.

    8. Leliyn (Edith Falls)

    woman swimming in Leliyn (Edith Falls)
    Cool off at Leliyn (Edith Falls). (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ As We Wander)

    There’s something about a mighty waterfall that invigorates the soul like nothing else, with the picturesque Leliyn (Edith Falls) the perfect place to refresh on a hot day.

    On your Northern Territory Top End National Parks and Northern Territory Dreaming visit to Nitmiluk National Park, known for its epic sandstone gorges, you’ll pay a visit to the oasis that is Leliyn. It’s the ideal place for a swim, but it’s also home to ancient Indigenous rock art. And as your Travel Director will explain, it’s an impressive place of cultural significance, too.

    Make 2026 the year to discover the flavours, culture and beauty of the Northern Territory at aatkings.com.