Tweed accommodation: 16 places to stay from Cabarita to the twin towns

Lara PiconeBy Lara Picone
hero media
Scattered with retro cool motels, hinterland hideaways and resort-style escapes, the Tweed is full of incredible accommodation from coast to caldera.

Sandwiched between Byron Bay to the south and the Gold Coast to the north, the Tweed has long been a hidden treasure trove of enticingly uncrowded beaches, rainforest-enrobed ridges and mountains, and charming townships. From the beachside enclaves of Kingscliff and Cabarita to the inland artful gem of Murwillumbah and riverside Tumbulgum, there’s plenty to uncover. Spend time exploring the region before retreating to these Tweed accommodation options at the close of each day.

Tweed Heads and Coolangatta accommodation

This bustling Tweed coast border town set on the aquamarine Tweed River is just footsteps from Queensland’s most southerly town of Coolangatta. The twin towns display very little obvious demarcation – except for the time zone during summer, so you may not realise you’ve strayed from one to the other. A town in the midst of certain gentrification, the hotspot of Tweed Heads is centred around Bay Street, which has evolved into a cool, if slightly grungy, hub. However, all along the riverfront are gems waiting to be discovered.

1. The Pink Hotel Coolangatta

$$

Best for: Escapes with mates or a hip stay for soaking up sun, sand and nightlife.

This retro refit of a classic surf motel sits across from Coolangatta beach in a wash of flamingo-pink. While technically in Queensland, it’s seconds away from Tweed Heads and is a hip little spot to relish the beachside lifestyle.

the property exterior of The Pink Hotel Coolangatta, tweed heads accommodation
The Pink Hotel Coolangatta is just steps away from the beach. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

There’s a rooftop cocktail bar and Eddie’s Grub House on site, rooms are styled in a rock-n-roll-esque cool, and its corner site is well-positioned to make the most of waterside dining, the beach and other attractions.

the interior of The Pink Hotel Coolangatta, tweed heads accommodation
There are plenty of reasons to stay indoors during your stay but make time to see the sights. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

2. The Mantra at Twin Towns Coolangatta

$$$

Best for: Leisure seekers that would like everything at their fingertips. A good option for families.

From rooms to penthouses and apartments, this resort  complete with tennis court, sauna, indoor and outdoor pools and fitness centre has all bases covered. Straddling the twin towns of Coolangatta and Tweed Heads and a short stroll to the beach and river, it makes exploration north or south easy.

sea views from The Mantra at Twin Towns Coolangatta, tweed heads accommodation
Soak up sweeping sea views from bed during a stay at The Mantra at Twin Towns Coolangatta.

Kingscliff accommodation

Beautiful Kingscliff with its crystal waves rolling onto the long, sandy beach hemmed by grassy parklands and caravan park has classic endless summer vibes. It hums with activity during summer and school holidays, when the town is pleasantly overrun by still-wet kids slurping ice creams and van-life surfers. The local pub, right across from the caravan park, attracts noteworthy musical talent and is the place to be on a warm weekend afternoon.

3. Blue Water Motel Kingscliff

$$

Best for: anyone from couples on a romantic interlude to families and groups of mates.

An easy stroll to the beach, this retro redo has effortless, laidback beach style  thanks to the expert touch of renown Australian interior designer, Jason Grant.

a contemporary bedroom at Blue Water Motel Kingscliff
The soothing colour palette at Blue Water Motel will have you drifting off to sleep in no time at all.

From standard rooms to a four-bedroom beach house with elevated beach shack appeal, this is one holiday you’ll want to live in forever.

a surfboard hanged on the wall at Blue Water Motel Kingscliff
Blue Water Motel Kingscliff offers chic, surf-inspired accommodation.

4. Mantra on Salt Beach Kingscliff

$$$

Best for: families, honeymooners, business travellers, or anyone after a little saltwater tonic.

Located in the beachside Salt Village in south Kingscliff, this Mantra delivers everything you expect from the hotel brand , including tennis courts, pools, bikes for hire and a variety of suites. It’s a short drive into the main part of town, but with easy access to Salt Beach and a variety of excellent restaurants, you’ll have little reason to venture far.

the pool at Mantra on Salt Beach Kingscliff
Stay at Mantra on Salt Beach Kingscliff to enjoy easy access to the pool.

5. Peppers Salt Resort and Spa Kingscliff

$$$

Best for: great for girls’ weekends, romantic ventures and multi-generational travel.

Another Salt Village escape, this Peppers property is a serene beachside haven  with two large swimming pools, an onsite spa and suites ranging from standard rooms to apartments. Steps from the beach and shops and restaurants, as well as pub and park, it ticks plenty of holiday boxes.

the pool at Peppers Salt Resort Spa
Soak up the sun at Peppers Salt Resort Spa.

6. Paradiso Resort Kingscliff

$$$

Best for: families that would like to stretch out and lock in for a while.

If you’re travelling with the family for an extended stay, Paradiso Resort is an all-round, sound option . Right in Kingscliff with easy access to restaurants, cafes, shops and even the cinema for those unexpected rainy days, the best of this coastal town is laid out in front of you. You’re also not far from the dazzlingly clear Cudgen Creek, a perfect spot for frolicking families. 

rocking chairs inside the lobby at Paradiso Resort
Find tropical designs throughout at Paradiso Resort.

Casuarina accommodation

Set between Kingscliff and Cabarita Beach, Casuarina is an affluent beachside locale with a muted, oceanic colour palette that ensures a restrained style. The mostly residential area can feel a little contrived, however, there’s also a soothing quality to the sameness. The beach is easily accessed and you’ll find walkways and cycleways populated by dog-walkers and fashionably clad exercisers. A small village has everything you need to access holiday supplies, from a supermarket, chemist and bottleshop to restaurants, cafes and a pilates studio.

7. Oaks Casuarina Santai Resort

$$

Best for: couples and families with older children.

Ensconced within the walls of this resort, you’d be forgiven for momentarily thinking you were in Bali. With its South Asian styling and tranquil water fountains, there’s a permeating calmness that allows for deep relaxation poolside at this Oaks resort .

an outdoor pool at Oaks Casuarina Santai Resort
The sun-soaked pool at Oaks Casuarina Santai Resort delivers serious Bali vibes.

Accommodation ranges from studios to two-bedroom apartments and you’ll find a Thai restaurant and spa onsite. Casuarina village and the beach are just a short stroll away.

a poolside suite at Oaks Casuarina Santai Resort
Stay in a luxe suite with a pool-facing verandah.

8. The Cabana Casuarina

$$

Best for: a couples retreat or solo travels.

Inspired by Palm Springs style, this adorable guesthouse can be found on Airbnb  and offers a pretty, pink-hued hideaway just 100 metres from the beach.

the guesthouse lounge at The Cabana Casuarina
The Cabana Casuarina is a boho chic gem located just 100 metres away from the beach.

Sleeping one couple, The Cabana has its own private access and a tropical garden which is illuminated by festoon lighting at night.

a chic bedroom at The Cabana Casuarina
Embrace the pink-hued and earth-toned bedroom.

Cabarita Beach accommodation

With Cabarita Beach a surfing nirvana and one of the state’s most beautiful sandy playgrounds, it’s little wonder this town surges with activity when the weather heats up. The position of the headland ensures there’s a sheltered stretch of beach on either side, not matter which way the sea breeze blows, and there are plenty of rockpools to explore. In the ocean-adjacent town, Cabarita has benefited from the halo of luxe Halcyon House hotel, which put the town on the map in 2015 with its covetable style.

9. Halcyon House

$$$$$

Best for: special occasion escapes, honeymooners and babymooners.

The surf motel revitalisation that ignited the trend up and down the coast, Halcyon House’s breezy, laidback luxe design echoes European beach clubs but with a distinctly Australian accent. Its bright-white exterior is a beacon of style on the Tweed Coast and finally showcased the area’s long-overlooked, breath-taking beauty.

the bed in the guest room at Halcyon House
Eclectic patterns fill the room. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

Interiors by Australian designer Anna Spiro are joyful and colourful and set the tone for a relaxed escape. Award-wining restaurant Paper Daisy and the onsite spa offer impeccable amenity to an already lavish stay.

Balcony views Halycon House Guest Room
Dreamy balcony views from the guest room at Halycon House. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

10. The Hideaway Cabarita Beach

$$

Best for: groups of friends and couples.

An easy stroll to the beach and town, this glam campground is a chic option for a coastal escape . While it’s set on the busy Tweed Coast Road, once tucked inside, you’ll more likely notice the crash of waves than the hum of cars.

the bed inside a glamping tent at The Hideaway Cabarita Beach
Opt for beach glamping at The Hideaway Cabarita Beach.

The barefoot luxe vibe carries through the from the well-styled bell tents to the communal kitchen and lounge areas.

a woman sitting outside a glamping tent at The Hideaway Cabarita Beach
Each tent has its own private amenities and seating.

11. The Beach Cabarita Apartments

$$$

Best for: families who would like easy beach access.

Set right at the heart of the action, this large apartment complex  is a contemporary and well-appointed option for a comfortable stay. Cloistered in the centre of the building is a series of resort-like pools and you’ll also find barbecue facilities and secure parking onsite. Ranging from two- to four-bedroom apartments, some with balconies gazing out to the blue horizon, it’s the perfect spot for a family retreat.

an aerial view of The Beach Cabarita Apartments
Hear the gentle lapping of the waves just outside The Beach Cabarita Apartments.

Pottsville accommodation

The most southerly town on the Tweed Coast, Pottsville has an underlying cool thanks to a flow-on effect from nearby Byron Bay. A single main street populated with stylish cafes and eateries leads to an incredibly beautiful tidal creek and a stretch of uninterrupted beach tucked behind bushland, making for some best-kept-secret appeal.

12. The Tide Pottsville

$$

Best for: couples travelling solo or with a baby.

Of-the-minute styling makes this petite guesthouse on Airbnb  a sleek and sweet option for a lazy coastal retreat. Close to Mooball Creek and a short drive to shops, this stylish lodging is perfect for exploring the under-the-radar delight of Pottsville.

the room interior at The Tide Pottsville
The Tide Pottsville is chic and spacious.

13. Potts-Villas

$$

Best for: beachside romance

This one-bedroom Airbnb  has a bright, minimalist beach style that invites sandy-footed relaxation. It’s just 100 metres from the main street and a five-minute walk to the beach and is completely self-contained. Enjoy the outdoor patio and common garden for an evening sundowner.

an outdoor seating area at Potts-Villas
Curl up on the outdoor patio at Potts-Villas after a day of exploring.

Murwillumbah accommodation

A thriving art scene, quickly evolving food culture and dramatic mountain scenery back-dropping a riverside, Art Deco town makes Murwillumbah a must-visit Tweed Valley gem. With the opening of the Rail Trail, the secret is out and visitors are flooding in to admire and explore this regal country beauty. While accommodation in town is limited, there are a range of hinterland options that offer idyllic escapes.

14. Mavis’ Kitchen Cabins

$$

Best for: romantic interludes or to enjoy walking to bed post-dinner.

The long-loved Uki favourite closed its restaurant in early 2024 but the cosy cabins set on the lush property with dramatic mountain vistas are still available to book.

Stay in one of the three cabins or the farmhouse, which sleeps up to 12 guests, to relish the restorative effects of nature.

the property exterior of Mavis’ Kitchen and Cabins, Murwillumbah accommodation
Step into charming countryside living.

15. Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat

$$$

Best for: a luxe retreat from everyday life.

A 20-minute drive from Murwillumbah will see you at Crystal Creek , where you can bed down surrounded by verdant rainforest and under the watchful eye of Wollumbin (Mount Warning).

With a range of accommodation, from cosy spa cabins to rainforest bungalows, glass terrace bungalows and luxury lodges with private plunge pools, you can relish the treehouse vibes in well-appointed comfort.

the accommodation within a jungle at Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat, Murwillumbah accommodation
Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat is hidden away from the world.

Tumbulgum accommodation

Historic and charming, riverside Tumbulgum has a nostalgic appeal. At the meeting of the Tweed and Rous Rivers, here you’ll find a handful of cafes, a sunny spot to cast a line out and the much-loved Husk Distillery.

16. The Belle River House

$$

Best for: groups of friends or multi-generational holidaymakers.

This 100-year-old home has recently been transformed into a sprawling guesthouse  that accommodates up to 16 people. Sensitively restored, this Queenslander-style abode has wrap-around verandahs to bask in the Tweed Valley views. Just a five-minute drive to Murwillumbah and 15 minutes to the beach, it’s the perfect hinterland hideaway for groups.

Lara Picone
Working for many of Australia’s top publications, Lara Picone has had the distinct pleasure of writing, editing and curating content about the finer things in life for more than 15 years. Graduating from Macquarie University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication, her editorial foundation began at Qantas: The Australian Way magazine, before moving on to learn the fast-paced ropes of a weekly magazine at Sunday Magazine and picking up the art of brand curation at donna hay magazine. Pivoting a near-problematic travel lust into a career move by combining it with storytelling and a curious appetite, her next role was as Deputy Editor of SBS Feast magazine and later Online Editor of SBS Food online. She then stepped into her dream job as Editor of Australian Traveller before becoming Online Editor for both International Traveller and Australian Traveller. Now as a freelancer, Lara always has her passport at-the-ready to take flight on assignment for the Australian Traveller team, as well as for publications such as Qantas Magazine, Escape and The Weekend Australian. As ever, her appetite is the first thing she packs.
See all articles
A timber wine cellar and bar with bar stools
Tweed

Found: a 1,000-bottle wine bar inside a secluded Northern Rivers rainforest retreat

Secluded by 250 acres of ancient rainforest, an ultra-romantic hideaway is harbouring a secret. A newly opened, impressively well-stocked wine cellar and bar, helmed by a hospitality veteran, is giving nature lovers another reason to head for the Tweed hinterland.

Read more
Tweed Holiday Parks, Pottsville South in NSW
Tweed

A guide to the top caravan parks in Tweed Heads and beyond

From the coast to the rainforest, Tweed Heads and her surrounding towns offer holidaymakers plenty of caravan parks to unwind in.

Read more
hero media

Why winter is the best time to be on the New South Wales coast

    Kate BettesBy Kate Bettes
    Continue
    NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

    Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

    Winter on the NSW South Coast

    Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

    Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

    two people standing in front of kiama blowhole
    See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

    Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

    Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast
    Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

    Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

    End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

    The Sebel Kiama exterior
    Sleep by the harbour.

    Winter on the Mid-North Coast

    A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

    First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

    Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast
    Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

    Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

    port macquarie koala hospital
    Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

    The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

    Back in town, Whalebone Wharf  serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

    At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

    bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie
    Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

    Winter on the Central Coast

    On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

    The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

    Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

    a humpback whale breaching on the central coast
    Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

    If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

    Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

    woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm
    Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

    As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

    Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

    restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast
    Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Winter in Wollongong

    Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

    If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

    Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

    monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple
    Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

    The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

    monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park
    Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

    As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

    Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

    Novotel Wollongong Northbeach
    Fall asleep listening to the waves.

    Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.