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
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
Delight in a charming local stay at Echoes Boutique Hotel.
Easter High Tea at Hydro Majestic Hotel.
Ardour Lilianfels resort captures sweeping views of the Jamison Valley.
Parklands Country Gardens & Lodges is nestled in the quaint village of Blackheath.
Easter Sunday egg hunts will also take place at Parklands, Hydro Majestic and Ardour 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 creates high-quality lavender products and welcomes visitors from across the world. (Credit: Luke Tscharke)
Aerial view of the Wineglass Bay. (Credit: Luke Tscharke)
The historic Duck Reach Power Station. (Credit: Tourism Tasmania/Nick H Visuals)
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
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 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
A peaceful Japanese escape awaits at Shizuka Ryokan. (Credit: Emily Godfrey)
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.
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7. A luxury wildlife escape in the Flinders Ranges
Arkaba is a private wildlife conservancy. (Credit: Tracey Experience Co)
Stay in the historic homestead. (Credit: Randy Larcombe)
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
Contemporary luxury meets Far North Queensland charm. (Credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)
Crystalbrook Riley's chic, private, European-inspired pool cabana. (Credit: Tourism Australia)
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 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 is located in city’s east end district.
Luxury Escapes is offering a stay at Next Hotel Melbournefrom $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
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 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
Spot wombats on Maria Island.
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 is taking 15% off stays of 3+ nights.
Relax knowing you've saved 15% at Essence Peregian Beach.
Save 15% on 5-night stays at Glen Eden Beach Resort.
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
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
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 is hosting some Easter activities. (Credit: Ben Mack)
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
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
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 cruisefrom $2449 per person twin share. From Brisbane, Voyager of the Seas departs on 28 March 2026 for a nine-night South Pacific cruisefrom $1299 per person twin share (the final Wiggles-themed sailing for the season), and again on 6 April 2026 for an eight-night sailingfrom $1499 per person twin share.
20. A wine-lover’s escape 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.
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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? South Australia and The Kimberley.
The Mornington Peninsula might be synonymous with summer, but winter offers equally compelling reasons to visit.
Come winter, the Mornington Peninsula transforms into a relaxing and rejuvenating escape. Think misty trails and dramatic ocean views along the rugged coastline, drinking and dining by crackling firesides, fewer crowds and a more small-town feel – the perfect ingredients for a slow and restorative weekend.
If you want a truly local winter experience, here’s where you need to go.
1. Sample spirits at local distilleries
Sample small-batch rums and cane spirits at JimmyRum. (Image: Visit Victoria)
No matter your tipple, you’re bound to find a Peninsula distillery to suit. Chief’s Son is beloved by locals and visitors alike for its award-winning range of single malt whiskies. Make sure to try the Black Forge – a heady combination of whisky and coffee.
JimmyRum is the Mornington Peninsula’s first and only craft rum distillery. Enjoy a tasting to sample small-batch rums and cane spirits, or book a table to feast on generous share plates and creative cocktails.
Bass & Flinders is another must-visit, and something of a local icon. It was the Peninsula’s first distillery and remains a favourite for craft gins, brandies and fruity liqueurs. Pick up a bottle (or two) to take home and toast your winter getaway.
2. Warm up in the hot springs
Dive into Alba Thermal Springs & Spa.
Locals know winter is the best time to visit the famous hot springs. With the air cool and crisp and the springs reaching temperatures up to 43 degrees, the experience is akin to a warm embrace.
If you’re travelling with kids or want something more laid-back, Peninsula Hot Springs is your best bet. Spanning 42 acres and with an organic vibe, the complex has hillside pools, saunas, bath houses and family-friendly spaces perfect for all ages.
Alba Thermal Springs & Spa is slightly more luxe, with 25 thermal pools amid architectural surrounds. The on-site restaurant, Thyme, is a highlight, featuring seasonal lunch dishes, high teas and picnics, and a beautifully designed interior.
3. Coastal walks feel more dramatic
Take in gorgeous seaside scenery on Millionaire’s Walk. (Image: Visit Victoria)
The Peninsula is situated between Port Phillip Bay and the wide expanse of the Southern Ocean, giving it front-row access to stunning sea vistas. In winter, and especially on rainy days, the outlook is incredibly dramatic, with waves crashing against the clifftops and a steely hue. The trails hugging the ocean are also much quieter and mostly filled with locals.
Make sure to drop by Cape Schanck Lighthouse on your coastal walk – the lighthouse was built in 1859, making it one of Victoria’s oldest. Climb the stone stairs all the way to the top and take in panoramic, windswept views.
Millionaire’s Walk in Sorrento is another local favourite. This easy 1.5-kilometre coastal trail takes you past gorgeous seaside scenery and some of the grand homes the town is famous for.
4. Sip on world-class pinot noir
Stop by Red Hill’s cellar doors, like Green Olive. (Image: Visit Victoria)
If you’re a fan of the light-bodied and elegant red, your winter escape should include a stop at one of the Peninsula’s many cellar doors.
The hinterlands around the township of Red Hill are particularly renowned for pinot noir (and chardonnay) thanks to their cool maritime climate and red clay soils. There are more than 50 boutique cellar doors to choose from, where you can sample a selection or do as the locals do: take a bottle back to your accommodation to savour by the fireside.
5. See misty rolling hills from above
Get a bird’s-eye view on Arthurs Seat Eagle. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Peninsula winters bring with them a thick mist and fog, which make for atmospheric and dreamlike scenery. Shroud yourself in the clouds with a gondola ride at Arthurs Seat Eagle. The summit is 305 metres high, giving you a genuine bird’s-eye view of the entire Peninsula region and Port Phillip Bay in their moody and misty glory.
6. Dine beside a roaring fire
Enjoy food and wine beside a roaring fireplace at Rare Hare Wine & Food Store. (Image: Visit Victoria)
The Peninsula is an essential part of Melbourne’s “food bowl”, with 70 per cent of the region a designated Green Wedge zone. It’s little surprise, then, that there are so many opportunities to try its fresh produce. Visit farm gates like Torello Farm, Hawkes Farm and Tully’s Corner to sample the region’s winter harvest: apples, root vegetables, mushrooms and truffles.
Nothing beats a fireside feast in winter, and several local dining venues offer exactly that. Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill is a two-hatted restaurant with a roaring fire, Crittenden Estate does seasonal dishes and estate wines amid a cosy indoor space, and Rare Hare Wine & Food Store has a double-sided fireplace that anchors the warm and welcoming dining room.
If the sun is out, enjoy a picnic amid the sprawling grounds of Montalto Winery. You’ll kick off with a tasting before heading outdoors to a covered picnic table, where you’ll feast on starters, mains, desserts and more wine.
7. Go whale watching at Cape Schanck
Look for whales between May and October. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Beyond the spectacular lighthouse views, Cape Schanck is also an excellent place to watch whales migrating through the Bass Strait. Between May and October each year, particularly during June and July, Southern Right and Humpback whales make their way past the area, and can sometimes be spotted just 150 metres from the shoreline. Many locals watch for free from the cape’s boardwalks and viewing platforms, but you can also book a boat tour.
8. Explore Point Nepean National Park
Follow over 80 walking and cycling tracks. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Point Nepean National Park is on the Mornington Peninsula’s tip, just outside Portsea. Set right beside the clifftops, it’s wild, windswept and defined by its rugged terrain.
Locals love the national park for its more than 80 walking and cycling tracks, and you’ll often spot them getting a winter workout in. But if you’ve never been here, make sure to discover its rich history.
It forms part of an Indigenous cultural landscape on the lands of the Bunurong People, and holds significance as a site for early settlement and military operations. Numerous historical buildings – including the heritage-listed Quarantine Station – still stand today.