A Bundaberg accommodation guide to suit every style of travel

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Linger a little longer in Bundaberg, with one of these accommodation options to suit your travel style.

Dubbed ‘sugar country’ for the swathes of sugarcane that flank the roads, there are plenty of things about Bundaberg that are totally sweet. The sun-drenched town is known as the gateway to the southern end of The Great Barrier Reef, with kilometres of pristine beaches that snake the coast. Bundaberg is also famed for its abundance of rum and delicious local brewed drinks. Bundy offers plenty of reasons to stick around, so we’ve rounded up some of the best accommodation options in Bundaberg to suit your style of travel.

Bundaberg hotels

Turtle sands

The newly launched Turtle Sands Resort offers visitors the chance to get up close with turtles. Located just a 15 minute drive from Bundaberg, Mon Repos has the highest concentration of turtles on the East Coast of Australia. Visitors often flock here to take a tour and witness baby turtles hatching on the beach. Turtle Sands offers the chance for visitors to stay in the heart of the action, with one of nature’s most beautiful miracles taking place just a few steps from your lodgings.

Bird's Eye View of NRMA Turtle Sands
Watch turtles hatch just a few metres from your doorstep.

The resort offers contemporary cabins and a caravan/campsite nestled in a peaceful spot between the dunes. Lodgings are contemporary and stylish, but the real wow-factor takes place only a few metres from your door.

a tiny baby turtle walking at Mon Repos Turtle Centre
Mon Repos Turtle Centre facilitates annual turtle nesting & hatching tours. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Burnett Riverside Hotel

Bed down at the Burnett Riverside Hotel, where you’ll get classic hotel comfort coupled with gorgeous riverside views. Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, there’s a range of rooms from the comfortable Queen room to the generously sized and luxurious suite.

You’ll be located near the buzz of downtown Bundaberg, with plenty of cafes and restaurants in close proximity. You won’t have to venture far to enjoy a great meal— the hotel’s onsite H20 restaurant and bar is serving up expertly-crafted dishes made from Bundy’s locally grown and caught produce, as well as locally brewed drinks.

Country style bedroom at Burnett Riverside Hotel
This laid-back bedroom has curtains opening up to scenic nature views. (Image: Burnett Riverside Hotel)

Manta Bargara Hotel

The Manta Hotel offers modern, stylish beachfront apartments nestled among lush tropical landscaping. Combining luxury with warmth and cosiness, Manta Hotel retains a slice of home while offering the best of a beachside escape.

There’s a spacious wooden balcony that’s perfect for soaking up the sunshine or enjoying a family meal, and there are plenty of amenities that will ensure you’re well-rested.

Luxurious pool at Manta Bargara Hotel
Plunge into the lush tropical pool at the Manta Bargara Hotel. (Image: Manta Bargara Hotel)

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

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Bundaberg caravan parks and camping

Caravan parks are where the fun is at. Often overlooked, caravan parks are not just for grey-haired nomads parking up in gargantuan RVs. There’s plenty of comfortable accommodation on offer, set in spacious surroundings loaded with amenities. Whether you’re travelling as a family, with friends, or solo— caravan parks can be a great option. Check out some of our favourites below.

Splitters Farm

Relax at Splitters Farm, an animal sanctuary and campground based in blissful bushland surroundings a stone’s throw from Bundaberg. Here, you can park up or pitch up on powered/unpowered sites surrounded by total serenity. If you’re not travelling with a campervan or tent, Splitters has a decked-out vintage ‘glamper’ van and eight decadent two-bedroom safari tent so you can still enjoy the glamping experience.

The cherry on top is the opportunity to interact with over 400 adorable rescue farm animals as part of a self-guided tour of the farm where you’ll get to feed the animals. There’s also a coffee cart on-site so you can get your caffeine fix, as well as wood-fired pizzas most weekends and lessons in damper-making for the kids.

Glamping Van in Splitters Farm, Bundaberg
Sleep in a glamper van and wake up to the sound of nature. (Image: Splitters Farm)

Big 4 Cane Village

At Big 4 Cane Village, you’ll be located in downtown Bundaberg among beautiful gardens. If you’re not camping, there’s a range of comfortable self-contained villas and cabins on offer and plenty of amenities so you can make yourself at home.

There’s a large outdoor cooking area so you can enjoy a BBQ with friends, and swap travel tips with fellow campers. If you need some downtime, there’s a saltwater pool where you can relax and soak up some beautiful Bundaberg sun.

Bundy Bear Cabin at Big4 Cane Village Holiday Park
This modern cabin is a perfect spot to spend a weekend away. (Image: Big4 Cane Village Holiday Park)

Big 4 Breeze Holiday Park

If it sounds appealing to base yourself on the beach, park up in Bargara, a coastal town just 15 minutes drive from Bundaberg. The Big 4 Breeze Holiday Park has plenty of comfortable cabins on offer, so you can unwind just footsteps away from the beach.

There’s a children’s playground, an expansive camp kitchen as well as go-karts and a tennis court on-site, so kids will have plenty to do. For holiday-makers travelling with a dog, rest assured that your pooch will be welcome here.

One-bedroom cabin at BIG4 Breeze Holiday Parks
The chic and minimalist interior of a one-bedroom cabin at BIG4 Breeze. (Image: BIG4 Breeze Holiday Park)

Bundaberg motels

There’s nothing like a regional motel to channel a bit of Australiana into your stay. Motels are a great option if you’re looking for good-value, down-to-earth accommodation that’s clean, comfortable and centrally located. Here, we’ve rounded up our top choices for motel accommodation in Bundaberg for a simple escape.

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Pacific Sun Bargara Motel

Nothing shouts ‘Aussie holiday’ quite like a beach-side motel. At the Pacific Sun Bargara, you’ll be just footsteps from the beach, restaurants and shops and a short 15-minute drive from Bundaberg CBD. The Pacific Sun offers comfortable, well-appointed rooms decorated with blue and white accents to evoke the gorgeous ocean surroundings.

You’ll have access to a fully-equipped kitchen so you can settle in and make yourself at home. There’s plenty to explore close by, but if you feel like a night in, there’s room service and plenty of puzzles/board games on offer.

Well-appointed dining and living room inside Pacific Sun Bargara
Experience contemporary comfort inside this charming home. (Image: Pacific Sun Bargara)

Villa Mirasol Motel

At Villa Mirasol, you’ll find spacious rooms with Mexican-inspired decor. There’s a salt-water swimming pool where guests can soak up some of the abundant Bundaberg sun, as well as plenty of amenities like free wi-fi, tea and coffee. If you’re looking for a motel with a personable vibe, then Villa Mirasol is the place to be.

The atmosphere is laid-back but welcoming, and the attentive staff are more than happy to help you with anything from local recommendations to organising your tours and activities at their booking desk.

You’ll be centrally located, right next to the river, with plenty of cafes to explore in close proximity. Villa Mirasol also has an access-friendly room, with a level shower and wheelchair access.

Mexican-inspired inn at Villa Mirasol, Bundaberg
Spend a rejuvenating weekend at Villa Mirasol Motel. (Image: Villa Mirasol Motor Inn)

Kalua Motel

If you’re after a great-value stay, then Kalua Motel is an unpretentious option located a brief 10-minute walk from Bundaberg town centre. Here, spacious ensuite rooms and comfortable beds await you. The rooms are simple, but partial self-catering is possible with a fridge and microwave in each room if you’re looking to save on dining out.

Heading to Bundaberg? We’ve also rounded up some of the best tours and things to do while you’re there.

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Elizabeth Whitehead
Elizabeth Whitehead is a writer obsessed with all things culture; doesn't matter if it's pop culture or cultures of the world. She graduated with a degree in History from the University of Sydney (after dropping out from Maths). Her bylines span AFAR, Lonely Planet, ELLE, Harper's BAZAAR and Refinery 29. Her work for Australian Traveller was shortlisted for single article of the year at the Mumbrella Publishing Awards 2024. She is very lucky in thrifting, very unlucky in UNO.
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Why Hamilton Island is perfect for multi-gen travel

Consider this your cheat sheet to holidaying on Hamilton Island with the clan.

Keeping everyone in your crew happy on holidays is no small feat. Yet ask any parent who’s been and they’ll unanimously agree Hamilton Island multi-gen travel overdelivers – for many reasons.

Taking the family to this premier island destination is a rite of passage for many Aussie parents. Not only is Hamo stuffed to the brim with fun activities to suit all ages, but it’s accessible, safe and super easy to get around thanks to its relatively small size. And I suppose the fact that it’s undeniably stunning doesn’t hurt either.

Whether you’re spending time together creating magical memories or relaxing while giving the young ones some kids’ club time, this guide breaks down everything there is to know about holidaying on Hamilton Island for families.

Getting there, and around

Hamilton Island multi-gen travel on a buggy
Hire a buggy and explore at your own pace.

The easiest and most fuss-free way to get to Hamilton Island is to fly to Great Barrier Reef Airport, located on the island. Qantas, Virgin and Jetstar offer short, direct flights from most major Australian cities, including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Cairns. Alternatively, fly to Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP) near Airlie Beach, then take a ferry from Shute Harbour with Cruise Whitsundays, which operates services daily.

Once you’re here, rental buggies make it easy to zip around from A to B (not to mention being a fun activity in themselves – the kids will love it).

Where to stay

Reef View Hotel Pool Terrace hamilton island multi-gen travel
Reef View Hotel offers pool and sea. (Credit: Kara Rosenlund)

Part of what makes Hamilton Island so appealing is its diverse range of family-friendly accommodation. Many include return airport or marina shuttles, along with complimentary use of non-motorised watersports equipment – making it easy to relax as soon as you step foot on the island.

Reef View Hotel is one of the most popular picks due to its spacious suites perfect for larger families and proximity to the island’s resort centre – a happening hub of restaurants, pools and water activities.

Meanwhile, families looking for something more self-contained can check into Palm Bungalows. Each modern bungalow is enveloped by lush tropical gardens and offers a kitchenette, bar fridge, microwave and coffee facilities – plus a private balcony for card games and evening drinks.

pool and sup boarders at The Sundays hamilton island
Take in pool and sea at The Sundays.

The Sundays is another fantastic option for families. The newest hotel on Hamilton Island, it has serious bragging rights thanks to its coastal chic design and stellar location at the end of Catseye Beach. Opt for one of the Family Connect Rooms for extra breathing room.

For that relaxed, home-away-from-home feeling, Hamilton Island Holiday Homes hit the nail on the head. Choose from more than 100 self-catering homes dotted around the island that accommodate both large groups and smaller families. From waterfront luxury to spacious villas, there’s something for everyone.

Family tip: Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows and The Sundays all participate in Hamilton Island’s Kids Stay Free program, earning themselves a reputation as some of the best family-friendly accommodation on Hamilton Island. No extra charge is added for up to one or two (dependent on the hotel) children under 12 who are sharing a room with parents and using existing bedding.

Where to eat

coca chu on hamilton island
Sit down to a feast at coca chu.

Hamilton Island’s foodie scene is seriously worth its salt. From just-caught seafood to family-friendly staples, even the fussiest of eaters will be satisfied.

Start at coca chu, one of the best Hamilton Island restaurants for families. Spotlighting vibrant Southeast Asian flavours, it offers a lively, high-ceiling setting overlooking Catseye Beach. Nearby is Catseye Pool Club, Josh and Julie Niland’s breezy coastal venue that’s at once elevated and laidback. Dishing up the likes of charcoal tiger prawns with lemongrass marinade and Greek-style lamb shoulder, it’s the perfect place to celebrate birthdays or milestone moments with older kids.

Got young ones who recoil at the sight of vegetables? Not to worry. Head straight to Romano’s for please-all pizza, or Marina Tavern for hearty pub classics in a relaxed atmosphere complete with an outdoor deck.

Catseye Pool Club hamilton island
Grab some tasty bites by the pool at Catseye Pool Club.

For brekkie or lunch, Bob’s Bakery is a family favourite for affordable pastries, sandwiches and pies, while Marina Cafe serves up bacon and egg rolls and salads with fresh smoothies. And Popeye’s does a mean fish and chips to go.

Sails Restaurant is the place to be for poolside bites with views of the Whitsundays’ famous turquoise waters. The kids can splash in the pool while parents sip spritzes and graze on mezze plates of za’atar pita, hummus and olives. The menu leans Mediterranean and Middle Eastern, though you’ll also find plenty of kid-friendly crowd favourites such as ham and cheese toasties. For something extra special, book in the Piper Package – expect exclusive access to a king-size sunbed with a shaded umbrella, plus a chilled bottle of Piper-Heidsieck NV Champagne and a showstopping seafood platter (I still have dreams about it).

Where to explore

hamilton island couple running on trail
Explore the island’s walking trails.

There are bucket loads of family-friendly activities on Hamilton Island that the whole clan can do together. First stop: hiring a buggy and taking your time to explore the island at your own pace. Next stop: getting active and creating memories together in the process.

One of the best activities on Hamilton Island for families is tackling one (or more) of its beautiful bush and walking trails, with the one-hour hike to Passage Peak a standout for panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Morning is a great time to go to beat the heat (and other walkers).

For the active and adventurous, the all-new E-mountain biking facilities make for an adrenaline-packed experience your teens won’t be able to stop talking about. It’s a self-guided trail taking riders to some of the island’s quietest and most scenic pockets, and the knowledgeable staff at Hamilton Island Trails HQ will fit you out with all the gear you need for a safe adventure.

E-mountain biking on hamilton island
Check out the all-new E-mountain biking facilities.

Come sunset, you’d be silly not to head up to One Tree Hill at least once during your stay. Offering breathtaking 360-degree views as the sun brushes the horizon with gold, it’s a popular place for groups and families to come together and enjoy a drink from the pop-up cocktail van.

Family tip: If you’re staying at the Sundays, Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows or Hamilton Island Holiday Homes, you’ll enjoy complimentary access to a range of water activities, including catamarans, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and snorkel equipment at Catseye Beach. Keep an eye out for the turtles that love to hang around the shallow fringing reef.

Where to play

heart reef
Take the family on a day tour to places like Heart Reef.

Kids are sure to have a field trip thanks to the island’s abundance of child-centric offerings.

Parents in need of some ‘me time’ can drop little ones between six months and 12 years off at the Clownfish Club, located near the Resort Centre and Pool. Overseen by trained professionals, the nursery offers a calm space for toddlers and babies with a balance of gentle play and rest. Meanwhile, older kids can unleash their imaginations with age-appropriate craft, games and group activities.

Parents seeking a stress-free night out can also make use of Hamilton Island’s babysitting services, which start from $40 an hour.

Hamilton Island Wildlife is another must-visit stop. Fun for children of all ages (and adults too!), the centre provides up-close encounters with a variety of cute and fascinating Aussie animals. Think marsupials, snakes, lizards, koalas and kangaroos, along with a giant saltwater crocodile. Catch the 10am or 2pm daily tours (included with entry) guided by expert keepers, or opt for a 30-minute private or small-group VIP encounter with an animal of your choice.

More kid-friendly entertainment awaits at Palm Valley Activities, where you can race around the go-karting track and reach up to 45 kilometres per hour. Kids under 16 can ride as passengers in double go-karts. Or perhaps try your hand at mini golf at the HI Fitness Club, navigating palms, playful challenges and pathways that wind through lush tropical gardens.

Keen to explore further afield? A wide range of Hamilton Island day trips promise endless excitement, from snorkelling on a Great Barrier Reef tour and chartering a boat to marvelling at the swirling sands of Whitehaven Beach from a scenic plane.

To plan your family island escape, visit hamiltonisland.com.au.

The Top Bundaberg Accommodation | Australian Traveller