Our Favourite Long Weekend Escapes in Each State

To celebrate, we’ve done a roundup of some top long weekend getaways across each state.

Before you head away on your weekend escape, make sure you check your state’s rules and regulations when it comes to travel and accommodation (like caravan parks) as each state has different rules due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

It is also handy to check what attractions, food spots, and ‘things to do’ are still open in the area you are planning on heading to.

Here are our top recommendations for weekend getaways, Australia wide.

Alice Springs

Rich in history and set against the backdrop of the superb MacDonnell Ranges, this vibrant city is perfect for a long weekend. Immerse yourself in Aboriginal art and culture and explore the natural wonders of Simpsons Gap and Ellery Creek Big Hole.

Kakadu

Get the best of both worlds by soaking up the history at the Nourlangie Rock art site or challenging yourself to climb Mount Cahill. Don’t miss the stunning sunsets at Ubirr.

Katherine

Experience the natural beauty of the NT by exploring Edith Falls and Leliyn Trail. Be inspired by local art and relax in the hot springs.

Tennant Creek

Take a step back in time when you journey to the centre of Australia, to the gold mining town of Tennant Creek. The sunset at Devils Marbles will leave you amazed.

Uluru

Start at the Uluru- Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre to get the most out of your experience at Australia’s most iconic landmark. A day trip to Kata Tjuta should also be on the to-do list.

Margaret River

With over 150 world-class wineries, stunning coastline, and some of the best waves in the world, Margaret River is the perfect weekend getaway.

Albany

This one is for the nature lovers. If your dream weekend is filled with stunning coastline walks, whale watching and exploring national parks, then Albany is the place for you.

Broome

Explore the infamous Cable beach, enjoy the sunset atop a camel and soak up warm nights at Sun Pictures outdoor Cinema. Head to Talbot Bay for a day trip, to see the incredible natural wonders that are known as Horizontal falls.

Busselton

This delightful seaside town is great for a beach getaway. Walk the 1.8km long Busselton Jetty, indulge in fish & chips and cones of ice-cream.

The Darling Range

This one is for the adventurers! If you are in search of a jam-packed weekend of fun activities, The Darling Ranges has your name all over it. Think white water rafting, canoeing, water skiing, bushwalking, fishing, and mountain biking.

Flinders Ranges

Venture along the dusty red roads and marvel at the towering cliffs along the Aboriginal Dreaming Trail. Head to Wilpena Pound for a day trip, you will not be disappointed at this incredible natural wonder.

Yorke Peninsula

This region offers great surfing, boating, and fishing, as well as stunning bushwalking tracks and wildlife encounters. Spend your afternoons unwinding at local galleries and museums.

Fleurieu Peninsula

For a weekend of sun, surf, and great wine, head to the Fleurieu. Find great swell at Southport, Boomer Beach, and Waitpinga.

Riverland

Choose any of the local towns along the beautiful Murray River to base yourself for a weekend of relaxation. Paddle along the river, and keep your eye out for native Australian animals and birds.

Limestone Coast

Explore some of SA’s most remarkable natural wonders by snorkeling and swimming at Umpherston Sinkhole, Kilsby Sinkhole, or Piccaninnie Ponds.

Pyengana

For a weekend consisting of beautiful nature and delicious cheese, the quiet village of Pyengana is the perfect destination. Marvel at the stunning waterfalls nearby, and soak up the landscape of the Blue Tier section of the North East Highlands.

Stanley

Hidden in the shadows of the Nut, a 150m tall volcanic plug, you will find the quaint village of Stanley. The town is filled with gorgeous colonial buildings and lovely cafes. Look out for seals and penguins as you climb or chairlift to the top of the Nut.

Coles Bay

Overlooking the stunning Oyster Bay and set against the backdrop of pink granite mountains, is Coles Bay. Head here for a weekend of swimming, boating, and fishing, minus the crowds.

George Town

Surrounded by vineyards, orchards, berry and lavender farms, George Town is a foodie’s paradise.

Corinna

This once historic mining town has evolved into a hub of eco-tourism, located in the stunning rainforest of the Tarkine wilderness. Fill your weekend with hikes, boating, fishing, and birdwatching.

Anglesea

Experience Victoria’s best surf spots along this stunning coastline. Enjoy the beaches around Anglesea, or hit up Torquay and Lorne. If you are feeling more adventurous, take a day trip to Apollo Bay or The Otways National Park.

Halls Gap

Take in the beautiful natural landscape that The Grampians has to offer from the base camp of Halls Gap. Explore the stunning walks, waterfalls, and trails, head to one of the wonderful wineries and breweries in the area or enjoy a day at the Halls Gap Zoo. This is a perfect destination for families and couples alike with tonnes of camping spots and caravan parks.

Yarrawonga

Right on the border of Victoria and New South Wales is the beautiful Yarrawonga. Explore the local food spots, catch a round of golf, or take a day trip to Nagambie and check out the lake and wineries. From Yarrawonga, you can also day trip to Rutherglen and get a pie from the famous Parker Pies.

Bright

One of the most picturesque locations in Victoria, Bright has so much to offer when it comes to a long weekend away. Located at the base of the Mount Buffalo National Park, there are plenty of stunning bush walks and cycling trails to enjoy. If you are a snow bunny, Falls Creek and Mount Buffalo are easy to access from Bright. There are also some great food spots and breweries.

Lakes Entrance

Located in the east of Victoria, Lakes Entrance is a beautiful coastal town with plenty to do for everyone. Situated on the water, Lakes Entrance is well known for water sports and activities, but there are also some stunning trail walks and caves to enjoy and explore near Buchan, a 40-minute drive from Lakes Entrance. Make sure you check out some of the great foodie spots and enjoy some local seafood.

Rainbow Beach

With plenty to see and do, this beachside town is a perfect long weekend destination. Start the weekend off with a surf before enjoying some of the gourmet food spots and wineries in the area. If you are looking for a more laidback activity, pick up some local fish ‘n’ chips and enjoy them by the beach. Make sure you pack your golf clubs – Mollymook has two of the most scenic golf courses in the country.

Hervey Bay & Fraser Island

Hervey Bay is a popular seaside city in Southern Queensland and is a great family-friendly destination. From here, you can explore the beautiful Fraser Island, do a spot of fishing, take in some of the amazing beaches in the area, or do some whale watching.

Seventeen Seventy (1770)

Seventeen Seventy is a tiny coastal town located in the Gladstone area. The name comes from Lieutenant James Cook, who landed about 3km from the area. There are some great camping spots and things to do in the area, including fishing, walks in the National Park, turtle spotting (November – January), and tonnes of history to learn.

Noosa

Noosa is one of the most well-known and well-loved destinations in Queensland for a long weekend trip. With beautiful beaches, stunning nature walks in the National Park, great fishing spots, and plenty of opportunities for kayaking and boating, Noosa is a one-stop-shop for everyone. There are also some great day trips from Noosa like Eumundi, the Glass House Mountains, and Mooloolaba. If you want to avoid some of the hustle and bustle, check out a caravan park in Noosaville or Tewantin.

Palm Cove

Palm Cove is the perfect hub for exploring everything Northern Queensland has to offer. Visit the Great Barrier Reef, explore the rainforest, take a trip to the Kuranda Koala Gardens, or just spend the day at the beach.