The Best Warrnambool Accommodation | Australian Traveller

From a bayside resort to an ultra-modern beach house and quaint pub accommodation, Warrnambool has plenty of incredible places to stay.

Travellers are often surprised by this city at the end of the Great Ocean Road. Home to a population of just over 35,000 people, Warrnambool has all the ingredients for a relaxing break by the sea, minus the hefty price tags that come with some of the hyped holiday hotspots on the coast. When it comes to accommodation, Warrnambool has options ranging from beachside caravan parks to comfy pub stays and beyond. Read our guide to Warrnambool’s best accommodation to find the perfect place to bed down next time you’re in town.

Hotels

1. Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs

Desperate for a truly relaxing break? The answer is booking into this hotel that boasts a hot springs sanctuary, indoor bathhouse, swimming pool, day spa and infrared sauna.

a room with a balcony at Deep Blue Hotel and Hot Springs, Warrnambool — Retreat to your ocean-view room with a balcony.

Check in to an ocean view room to wake up each morning to sea vistas or splash out on a deluxe spa suite to slide into your own private spa bath each evening.

the pool at Deep Blue Hotel and Hot Springs, Warrnambool — This hotel boasts a hot springs sanctuary for a truly relaxing break.

A weekend soaking up some geothermal goodness is just what the doctor ordered!

an aerial view of Deep Blue Hotel and Hot Springs, Warrnambool — Sweeping coastal vistas abound.

Best for: Spa breaks and wellness weekends

Address: Worm Bay Rd, Warrnambool

2. Best Western Olde Maritime

This welcoming, centrally located hotel has rooms ranging from compact budget twin rooms to spacious split-level family rooms. With a restaurant, bar and gym, this hotel has everything you need on site if you prefer to stay close to your room.

a look inside one of the rooms at Best Western Olde Maritime, Warrnambool — Best Western Olde Maritime is a welcoming retreat in Warrnambool.

Alternatively, Warrnambool’s restaurants and attractions are just a stroll away, with the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village just across the road.

a bedroom with a window and a fireplace at Best Western Olde Maritime, Warrnambool — Each room is minimal and elegant.

Best for: A great all-rounder for families, groups, couples and business travellers.

Address: 110-116 Merri St, Warrnambool

3. Quest Warrnambool

A great all-purpose accommodation option located opposite the Warrnambool Art Gallery and around the corner from some cracking pubs and restaurants, Quest Warrnambool ticks the boxes for all types of travellers. These spacious, open-plan serviced apartments have kitchens or kitchenettes if you like preparing your own meals.

a room with a balcony at Quest Warrnambool — The apartments are modern and spacious.

There’s an outdoor pool to enjoy in warmer weather too. Corporate facilities like meeting rooms make this hotel a good choice for business travellers, while wheelchair-friendly rooms make travelling easy for people with accessibility requirements.

the living area at Quest Warrnambool — Quest Warrnambool is a prime destination for business travellers.

Best for: Solo travellers, business travellers, families and people who require accessible rooms.

Address: 15-19 Liebig St, Warrnambool

4. Warrnambool Gallery Apartments

Stay at these boutique apartments and you’ll be right in the heart of the action. Choose from a studio, one or two-bedroom apartment, or a deluxe spa suite to finish the day soaking in your own spa. You’re just a short walk from some great pubs, restaurants and cafes here. Prefer making your own meals? Each apartment has a fully equipped kitchen so you can stock up on provisions and enjoy a self-catered break.

Best for: Couples and solo travellers

Address: 206 Lava St, Warrnambool

5. The Cally

Many people visit this Fairy Street stalwart for a pub meal and a beer, but you can book a basic room upstairs too. If you’re on a budget and want to stay somewhere in the middle of the city, these neat and simple rooms will do the trick. Bonus points for being able to wander downstairs for a meal and an ale.

Best for: Groups and families on a budget break

Phone number: (03) 5561 3932

Address: 112-114 Fairy St, Warrnambool

Resorts

6. Lady Bay Resort

If want to experience a relaxing slice of cruisy resort life, this large property located just outside of the Warrnambool city centre is a top pick.

the exterior of Lady Bay Resort with water views — Lady Bay Resort treats guests to picturesque water views.

From spacious rooms to a swimming pool, spa and restaurant, lounge and bar, everything you need for a chilled-out break is here in one place.

the living space interior of Lady Bay Resort Warrnambool — The coastal resort offers plenty of areas to relax.

If you fancy waking up to magnificent coastal views, followed by a leisurely wander along the beach promenade, then spending the afternoon by the pool, this resort delivers all you need for a slow-paced getaway by the sea.

the blue-painted Lady Bay Resort Warrnambool — The blue painted exterior echos the coastal surrounds.

Best for: Couples and groups longing for a quiet break with water views

Phone number: (03) 5562 1662

Address: 2 Pertobe Rd, Warrnambool

Airbnbs and holiday homes

7. Warrnambool Retreat

These stylish, self-contained retreats named Henna and Merri are like walking right into a designer home magazine spread. A sympathetic renovation has enhanced the beauty of these units without betraying its heritage, with many original features retained.

a room with a bathtub at Warrnambool Retreat — These design-led units have modern furnishings.

Luxuriate in the freestanding bathtub, curl up by the fireplace with a glass of wine and kick back in the courtyard with a good book – Warrnambool Retreat truly is a home away from home.

the fireplace at Warrnambool Retreat — Keep warm by the fireplace.

Best for: Couples and groups keen for a private getaway.

Address: 1 Henna Street, Warrnambool, VIC

8. 1 Beach House

If you want to spoil yourself with a luxurious beach break, go no further than this blockbuster beach house. A chic, four-bedroom smart home with all the bells and whistles (chef-grade kitchen, European appliances, ultra-wide smart televisions) you’ll be all set up for a memorable getaway here.

garden views from the window at 1 Beach House, Warrnambool — This deluxe abode is all about recharging.

If you can tear yourself away from this deluxe abode, wander (or use the complimentary bikes) to the Logans Beach Whale Viewing Platform to try and spot migrating whales that visit the area between May and September each year. Driving an electric car? A free Tesla destination charger is available here too.

the outdoor seating area at 1 Beach House, Warrnambool — The landscaped garden is the perfect spot to relax.

Best for: A very special break to remember with friends and loved ones.

Address: Logans Beach Coastal Village, Warrnambool.

Caravan Parks & Campgrounds

9. NRMA Warrnambool Riverside Holiday Park

This peaceful holiday park right on the Hopkins River has facilities and amenities galore, making it a top spot for families and people who love staying active while on holiday. Have fun in the lagoon-style outdoor pool, swim some laps in the heated indoor pool, putt your way around the mini-golf course or visit the book exchange to borrow a page-turner to read at the beach. There are campsites, powered caravan sites, cabins and villas at different price points here. If you’re travelling with your pooch, you’ll be pleased to know this park welcomes four-legged guests too.

the NRMA Warrnambool Riverside Holiday Park — Kids can run around the outdoor playground.

Best for: Families and people travelling with pets.

Address: 125 Jubilee Park Rd, Warrnambool

10. Surfside Holiday Park

As the name suggests, this large, council-run holiday park is just a short stroll from the beach. The location is so convenient, that you could easily forget about your car for days and get around on foot or bike instead. Choose from basic cottages, brand-new beach chalets and powered or unpowered sites if you’re a camper or have embraced van life.

the Surfside Holiday Park, Warrnambool — Surfside Holiday Park boasts a convenient beachside location.

Best for: Beach lovers

Address: 120 Pertobe Rd, Warrnambool

11. Shipwreck Bay Holiday Park

This beach-facing holiday park is also run by the local council and mostly operates during peak holiday periods. A top location to pitch a tent or set up your caravan, this holiday park’s coveted beachside location makes it a popular place during summer – book your spot early.

Best for: Campers and caravanners who love to surf and swim

Address: 42 Pertobe Rd, Warrnambool

12. Warrnambool Holiday Park and Motel

This holiday park that’s just off the Princes Highway has everything from basic studio apartments suited to solo travellers or couples, to premium apartments for groups and families. Travelling with your boat in tow? This holiday park is the ideal place to stay since there’s free boat storage and bait and ice available for sale at reception.

Best for: Anglers and people travelling with boats

Address: 83 Simpson St, Warrnambool

13. Discovery Parks – Warrnambool

This dog-friendly park has stacks of amenities to keep everyone happy. There’s a pool, playground, movie room, pedal karts and fun activities like scavenger hunts and art workshops for the little ones. Choose from cosy cabins, powered sites for your van or unpowered sites for your tent or swag – there’s accommodation to suit different preferences and price points here.

Best for: Families and people travelling with pets

Address: 25 Pertobe Rd, Warrnambool

14. BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks – Warrnambool

This pet-friendly holiday park is just a 10-minute walk to the city centre. Book a cabin, unit or suite, set your tent up on a grassy site or roll into a powered site if you’re in a van or motorhome.

the outdoor deck with barbecue grill at BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks Warrnambool — Whip up a delicious barbecue feast on the spacious outdoor deck.

While there is plenty to do in Warrnambool, you’d be mad not to make use of the swimming pool, infrared sauna, tennis court, basketball court, games room and playground here.

the indoor pool at BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks Warrnambool — Make a splash in the indoor pool.

Best for: Families with kids of all ages and people travelling with pets.

Address: 33 Lava St, Warrnambool

15. Warrnambool Holiday Village

This village’s location right near several supermarkets makes it a top location for people who enjoy self-catered, budget breaks. Each cabin has a kitchen, so you’ll be set to whip up your own breakfast, lunch and dinner here. There’s also air conditioning, free wi-fi and a barbecue area for preparing al fresco feasts.

Best for: Travellers who value a convenient, central location

Address: 81 Henna St, Warrnambool

Discover the best things to do in Warrnambool.

The wild, otherworldly beauty of The Grampians offers a perfect place to unwind, slow down and relax.

Not all holidays yield the same result; some are bustling, with endless things to do, events to book and places to see. All great things, but they leave you feeling more tired than before. Then, there are destinations that help you slow down, making real connections and participating in self-care.

Destinations like The Grampians : surrounded by untouched nature, allowing a chance to reconnect with yourself and loved ones at a slower pace.

Discover six science-backed ways to enjoy a holiday and feel restored at the end of it.

1. Practice mindfulness

Hamilton Gallery, the grampians — Be present at Hamilton Gallery. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Mindfulness – the practice of tuning into the present moment – has been found to help in reducing stress, anxiety and depression. One way to practice this art is by immersing yourself in art.

Hamilton Gallery has been in operation for over 60 years, and is not only home to many significant art pieces but also runs workshops and events for all ages to expand their awareness and understanding of art. The gallery is also the custodian of the largest collection of Gunditjmara artefacts held on country.

If you prefer to practice mindfulness through movement, visit Halls Gap Zoo to feed the meerkats – who wouldn’t feel better after focusing on these little guys? Or visit The Grampians Horse Riding Centre for an unforgettable morning ride through 10 kilometres of bushland. Enjoy the soothing movement of the horse and experience the bush anew.

2. Indulge in self-care

two people swimming in the Venus Baths, the grampains — Take an immersive bath in nature on the Venus Baths loop walk. (Image: Visit Victoria)

While the term self-care might conjure up images of indulgent bubble baths or a soothing massage, there’s more to it than pampering. Self-care is any action that protects your physical, emotional and mental well-being.

Like taking an immersive ‘bath’ in nature. Do just that on the Venus Baths loop walk – ideal for less experienced hikers or those walking with kids – stopping at freshwater-filled rockpools to cool down along the way.

Serious hikers (we’re talking some rock hopping and traversing slippery tracks) can tackle the Wurgarri, or Mount Sturgeon walk, which rewards the effort with panoramic views from the summit.

For those whose idea of self-care leans more towards arts and culture, a visit to WAMA is a must. Australia’s first national centre for environmental art is home to exhibitions that explore the natural world through film, installation, painting, performance and more.

3. Embrace nature

Boroka Lookout, the grampians — Soak in incredible views over Halls Gap at Boroka Lookout. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Spending time in nature is the ultimate way to soothe your body and mind. It’s been proven to help with all manner of things, from reducing stress to boosting cognitive function. And there’s no better place to enjoy it than among the raw sandstone, wildflowers and native creatures of The Grampians.

Rocklands Reservoir, spanning 6700 hectares, is an ideal spot. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the view over Grampians National Park. Cast a line, hire a canoe or follow nature trails along the water’s perimeter. How’s the serenity?

To appreciate nature’s imposing power, head to Splitters Falls. Here, find unrivalled tranquillity. Spring is the best time to visit, when bouquets of native spring flowers greet visitors.

Those with limited mobility will appreciate Boroka Lookout, a viewing platform surrounded by breathtaking views over Halls Gap and the eastern Grampians. Come early to witness a sunrise you’ll never forget.

4. Prioritise Rest

outdoor bathtub at Nook On The Hill — Recharge at Nook on the Hill. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Above all else, a holiday should be an opportunity to recharge, and there’s no better way to do it than to get a good night’s sleep. We don’t need to tell you how essential sleep is, for everything from mental health to strengthening the immune system.

Try Wanderlust Glamping , where guests fall asleep to the soothing sounds of nature after an evening relaxing around the fire pit and wake to your very own green oasis.

For pure luxury in the foothills of the Grampians National Park, look no further than Nook on the Hill – a handcrafted tiny house surrounded by rewilded, lush native Australian bush. It might be small, but Nook on the Hill has everything needed to unwind in style, including an outdoor bath for balmy nights.

For a modern farm stay, book at Mount William Station in the foothills of The Grampians. The station combines old-world charm with modern amenities and easy access to everything this region has to offer.

5. Engage Your Senses

Salingers Cafe, destinations that help you slow down — Indulge in a meal at Salingers. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Few human senses are as fun to indulge in as taste. A meal at Salingers in Great Western is the ultimate treat, and not only for the taste buds. The food is excellent, but Salingers’ really unique attraction is the bustling beehive that lives within the walls of the historic building.

For an expertly smoked burger, ribs, or beef brisket, head to Flame Brothers in Halls Gap. Tuck into delicious food while you enjoy the view.

If you prefer your senses heightened by the pump of adrenaline, Grampians Soaring Club offers an eagle-eye view of the Grampians National Park and Pyrenees Ranges from a glider. Take in the sights with a cross-country flight, ridge soar, or altitude wave flight.

6. Connect and reconnect

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria — Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

Making shared memories is a wonderful way to reconnect with old friends or make new ones. These unexpected finds make it easy to discover something new in The Grampians.

Amateur geologists will delight at the Kanawinka geotrail, which covers 60 sites over Australia’s most extensive volcanic province. Visit the Penshurst Volcano Discovery Centre to learn more about volcanic activity in The Grampians, or head to nearby Mount Napier State Park for a trip into the Byaduk lava caves.

Pop in to the Ros McArthur Art Studio to peruse the gardens full of native and exotic plants and flowers that serve as the subjects of Ros’s still life paintings.

For a shopping experience like no other, head to the Dimboola Imaginarium . Far more than a shop, the Dimboola Imaginarium is an immersive experience where you’ll find all manner of quirky bits and pieces. Expect the unexpected.

Put these science-backed holiday benefits to the test during a trip to The Grampians. Plan your peaceful getaway at visitgrampians.com.au.

15 of the best places to stay in Warrnambool