10 places around Australia where the best view is from the loo

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There are few simple pleasures in life quite like private time atop a ceramic throne overlooking Australia’s inimitable landscape.

Bathrooms can make or break a trip. If a bathroom’s too cramped and crowded, your toiletries will have to stay trapped in their black nylon travel case, with the tiny string of dental floss rarely seeing the light of day. If it’s too grubby, you’ll be wearing hiking shoes in the shower for hygiene purposes.

A great bathroom on a holiday is spacious, well-lit and clean, but a perfect bathroom contains a toilet with a vantage point to outshine most tourist destinations. So, to truly experience Australia from a unique perspective, here are 10 spectacular loos that offer even better views.

1. Park Hyatt Sydney, NSW

the bathroom at Park Hyatt Sydney
Peek at the famous bridge from your bathroom window.

Let’s start with a classic view in a classic hotel: the Sydney Suite in the Park Hyatt Sydney.

Every day, hundreds of eager tourists flock to The Rocks for a glimpse of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, but little do they know there’s a shortcut hiding in plain sight. A stay at the Sydney Suite offers a close and personal peek at the famous bridge, with its sturdy structure filling the entire bathroom window.

There’s no need to bring a book or a shampoo bottle to the toot when you can marvel at a moving painting of a historic Australian landmark. Squint and you might be able to spy bold tourists scaling the frame. Not to fret, though, they can’t see you.

2. Longitude 131°, Yulara, NT

the bathroom at Longitude 131° with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Uluru landscape
Get comfy and watch the landscape change from the loo. (Image: Tourism NT/George Apostolidis)

In keeping with the ‘Australian landmark’ theme, Longitude 131° offers the most enviable toilet experience found Down Under, depending on the traveller’s preference for natural versus manmade landmarks.

Longitude 131°’s Dune Pavilion boasts a bathroom with floor-to-ceiling windows aimed directly at Uluṟu. Theoretically speaking, guests could remain perched on the loo for 24 hours to witness the monolith complete its evolution from shades of purple to deep reds and oranges. Alternate between the toilet and the tub and it could be the most relaxing and picturesque holiday you’ve had without leaving the bathroom.

3. Jamala Wildlife Lodge, Canberra, ACT

a private bathroom with tub with a tiger from the other side of the glass panel at Jamala Wildlife Lodge, Canberra, ACT
Share an intimate bathroom moment with the wildlife at Jamala Wildlife Lodge.

Arguably the most intriguing loo with a view comes courtesy of Jamala Wildlife Lodge , a collection of abodes built in the thick of the National Zoo and Aquarium. Opt to stay in the Jungle Bungalows and a surprise awaits in the luxurious bathroom. A reinforced glass window separates the bathroom occupant and lions, tigers and bears as they go about their animal business unawares.

Jamala Wildlife Lodge has taken the phrase ‘be at one with nature’ and turned it into an entire package. Not many people can say they’ve shared an intimate bathroom moment with one of nature’s beautiful predators, so this might be the only chance to do so.

4. Reefsuites, Whitsundays, Qld

Reefsuites bathroom underwater
Watch marine life swim by from your throne. (Image: Irjaliina Paavonpera)

More bathrooms should come fully equipped with aquariums solely for the soothing factor. Should you venture to the Great Barrier Reef, prepare to be soothed to oblivion as you answer nature’s call while floating deep below the surface.

Reefsuites is Australia’s first underwater accommodation where nearly every single wall of the room is adorned with a window peeping out to the ocean. Once you spy sharks and sea creatures cruising through the water as you reach for the toilet paper, there’s no going back to a regular bathroom.

5. Sofitel Melbourne On Collins, Vic

the bathroom with bathtub at Sofitel Imperial Suite
The Imperial Suite has incredible views over Melbourne.

Sofitel Melbourne on Collins is somewhat of an oddity in the ‘toilets with a view’ space, as it has two contenders for the top spot.

The first is the conventional option located in the Imperial Suite on the uppermost floor. As one of the most expensive hotel rooms in Melbourne, it’s an expensive route if you’re going solely for the bathroom views, but it does have the perk of coming with all the luxuries found in a penthouse room.

bathroom views at Sofitel Melbourne On Collins, Vic
The infamous level 35 bathroom is a sight to behold.

The second alternative is budget-friendly and accessible to most, found in the Sofitel’s public restroom on level 35. Overlooking the MCG, it’s unlikely you’ll find better seats to Richmond versus Collingwood unless you actually paid for a ticket to the match. The public restroom itself is cleaned to perfection and contains floor-to-ceiling windows that aren’t a common feature in Melbourne’s CBD.

6. Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef, WA

Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef Bathroom
Go completely off-grid at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef.

The two deepest connections you can make are waiting for you at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef. The team behind this eco-friendly, luxury accommodation is determined to help you bond with nature and understand our impact on it more, while the second connection made will be to the quaint toilet and the bathroom’s minimalist design.

Few holidays feel like a reprieve from the world these days but leave your phone in your room and you’ll certainly feel serene as you’re enjoying a canape with like-minded, eco-conscious travellers. Perhaps you can strike up a conversation by commenting on the views from the toilet.

7. Mona Pavilions, Tas

the bathroom with tub at Mona Pavilions, TAS
Take in the views of the River Derwent while doing your business.

An adventure to Hobart is always going to entail a healthy dose of eye-opening culture and breathtaking sights, and you’d never think both of those could be found in the bathroom.

The architecturally mesmerising Mona Pavilions are an offshoot of the world-renowned Mona Museum , where you can stay in rooms named after influential Australian architects, the walls lined with artwork from the Mona collection. It’s in the Arthur room, however, that you’ll find a toilet overlooking the stunning River Derwent. Stay in a work of art while overlooking Mother Nature’s work of art – Mona strikes again.

8. Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park, NT

incredible views from a public toilet in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Head to the public toilets in Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park.

For travellers who aren’t staying at Longitude 131° or just happen to be passing through, head to the public toilets in Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park and feast your eyes on the bulbous red cluster of rocks that are Kata Tjuṯa (also known as The Olgas).

The toilets offer an intriguing look at Kata Tjuṯa, so the chances of friends and family taking similar photos of the same natural phenomena are incredibly low.

9. Daintree Wilderness Lodge, Qld

the bathroom in Daintree Wilderness Lodge
Soak up sensational views of the rainforest from the comfort of your bathroom. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Deep in the rainforest on Kuku Yalanji country is the Daintree Wilderness Lodge , a sustainability-focused resort and one of the best Daintree stays, where you’ll find a lavatory among the trees.

The lodge is situated in a distinct area between the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, meaning there’s a rare opportunity to go boardwalking through the lush green leaves or swimming off Cape Tribulation on the same weekend.

But the focus is the toilet, and Daintree Wilderness Lodge’s bathrooms have sensational views of the magical rainforest that encases the accommodation. Plan a trip around a rainy weekend and the pitter-patter of rain on the window will make the bathroom experience unforgettable.

10. Alkina Lodge, Great Ocean Road, Vic

the bathroom at Alkina Lodge
Take in views of the sky from the bathroom.

This one’s for the stargazers. Nestled in a secluded hilltop and the closest luxury accommodation to the Twelve Apostles, Alkina Lodge is made up of three separate suites that are specifically positioned to have maximum privacy.

The design of these fancy living quarters allows for unobstructed views of the sky from the bathroom, and as the Alkina Lodge is located far from any potential light pollution, toilet-perchers are all but guaranteed unrivalled star-spotting. Look out at the night sky and try to decipher Orion’s Belt while surrounded by the creature comforts of soap and face towels.

Louis Costello
Refusing to rest before his entire bucket list is complete, Louis loves nothing more than travelling to obscure locations and uncovering little-known highlights that make those places shine. Writing about his experiences both in Australia and overseas, Louis has picked up a trick or two to get the most out of a holiday, whether it's a weekend or six months.
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7 great day trips from your Coffs Coast homebase

Make this dazzling stretch of beaches and natural wonders your home base for a grand adventure

Whether you’re setting out solo, bringing a mate, or packing in the whole family, no road trip along Australia’s East Coast is complete without at least a few days spent exploring the Coffs Coast. A stunning stretch of NSW coastline nestled between ancient high-elevation rainforests and magnificent, undiscovered beaches, Coffs offers amazing biodiversity, stunning natural beauty, and heaps of local charm, without the crowds. Pull up in Coffs Harbour , your perfect home base for these unforgettable day-trips.

1. Southern Beaches

The Coffs region boasts 30 of Australia’s most beautiful, unspoiled beaches, directly abutting a dramatic tableau of mountains and rainforests. Drive South of Coffs Harbour to find up-and-coming surf destinations where it’s still possible to catch an empty wave. First up is the picturesque Sawtell village . Wander the famous fig-tree-lined main street packed with laid-back places to eat and drink. Enjoy panoramic views and seasonal whale sightings at Bonville Headland on the Southern end of the beach.

Nearby Bongil Bongil National Park boasts seven kilometres of empty beach, along with hiking and cycling trails through beachfront rainforests – keep an eye out for koalas living in the trees. Boambee Beach and Boambee Creek Reserve are great for families, with shallow waters perfect for kayaking and SUPing, plus an off-leash dog beach.

family eating lunch in sawtell
Experience small-town charm in Sawtell.

2. Orara Valley Tourist Trail

The Orara Valley Tourist Trail has it all: hinterland bushwalks, birdwatching, horse riding, pristine swimming holes and rolling green pastures dotted with dairy farms and historic villages. And it’s only 15 minutes west of Coffs Harbour.

Sample produce at a roadside stall, stop into Coramba Hotel for a quintessential country pub lunch, or try the Idle in Cafe in Nana Glen for coffee and scones. Then spend the afternoon kayaking the Orara River or mountain biking on Mt Coramba. If you’re feeling adventurous, follow the 4WD touring route along the Orara Escarpment in Bindarri National Park , a rugged landscape with dazzling views that winds through untouched eucalypt rainforests and waterfalls.

A family sitting by the Orara Valley Tourist Trail.
Explore the green heart of Coffs.

3. Dorrigo National Park

Enjoy a classic day trip from Coffs to forest bathe in some of the oldest subtropical rainforests in the world at Dorrigo National Park, part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests. These million-year-old ecosystems promise rare bird sightings, towering strangler figs, and epic walking tracks and picnic spots. Try the 6.6 km Wonga Walk to experience dreamy Crystal Shower Falls (where you can walk behind the falls) and the Skywalk Lookout, which offers spectacular views of the valley and coast. Then stop in Dorrigo town for a homey lunch. It’s worth noting that a section of the road between Ulong and Dorrigo – which dates to the 1880s – is unsealed, adding to the area’s end-of-the-earth allure but making travel difficult in adverse weather conditions. Alternatively, head to Dorrigo via the delightful township of Bellingen .

Three people standing at the SkyWalk lookout.
Wander the Skywalk.

4. Northern Beaches

For another tranquil expanse of sun, sand and surf breaks, head north to Woolgoolga (Tourism Australia’s Best Mainland Beach for 2025. Taste the coffee and local-produce breakfast at one of several cafes, then spot whales during their migration season along the Woolgoolga Whale Trail to the headland. Emerald Beach offers clear blue waters and another headland walk, perfect for taking in views of South Solitary Island, a dramatically rocky-cliffed island with a historic lighthouse. Red Rock, some 40km north of Coffs and named for its striking coastal rock formations, boasts a gorgeous estuary reserve that’s perfect for languorous days spent picnicking, swimming, fishing, and connecting with the relaxed local pace.

Freshly caught seafood by the beach, with sparkling ocean views.
Enjoy fresh seafood overlooking Woolgoolga Beach.

5. Jetty precinct

You could easily spend a whole day exploring the Jetty precinct – from its foreshores to the marina to Muttonbird Island. Start with fresh fish and chips from local institution Coffs Harbour Fisherman’s Co-op , before browsing the popular Harbourside Markets held every Sunday on the foreshores.

Take a scenic walk along the breakwall to Muttonbird Island , a cultural and ecological treasure with panoramic views and rich Gumbaynggirr heritage. The Giidany Miirlarl Education Space shares the island’s ancient stories, or join a guided moonlight tour to see the seasonal return of the muttonbirds.

Back at the Jetty Strip, find a buzzing mix of cafes, bars and restaurants with cuisines from around the world, open from morning until late. Don’t miss The Jetty Pavilion , a favourite for its unique menu blending modern Australian cuisine with vibrant world flavours.

walk to muttonbird island from coffs harbour
Walk the path where land meets sea and sky.

6. Grafton

Head inland from mid-October to early November to catch Grafton’s jacaranda season, when the town’s streets and parks are covered in purple. Even better, time your trip between 24 October and 2 November to attend the famous Jacaranda Festival, with special food items, performances and more. At any time of year, follow the self-guided Grafton Heritage Trail to discover the town’s historic buildings, landmarks and stories. Or get the blood pumping with a trip along the longest mapped white-water trail in Australia – the Clarence Canoe and Kayak Trail. Book a tour with Exodus Adventures .

woman walking through jacaranda trees in grafton
Time your Grafton trip to see the jacarandas in full bloom. (Image: @myclarencevalley)

7. Nambucca

Just south of Coffs Harbour sits Nambucca, the ideal town for a relaxed, coastal day trip. Hire a canoe, kayak or boat to explore over 80 kilometres of waterways stretching from the hinterland to the ocean. For those who prefer to stay on dry land (or double up their adventure for the day), stretch your legs along the V-Wall – a scenic coastal walk along the Nambucca River – dotted with boulders painted by the community, sharing messages, art and local stories. Stop along the way to buy Sydney rock oysters direct from local farmers, or try your own hand at fishing. Before heading back to Coffs, refuel on fresh seafood and wood-fired pizzas at Matilda’s in Nambucca .

a boat zooming through Nambucca Heads
Explore Nambucca’s waterways. (Image: Seen Australia)

Visit coffscoast.com and download the Coffs Coast Explorer App for more daytrips and trails.