Looking for an island-style escape without the overseas price tag? Explore Australian coastal destinations that offer stunning beaches, clear waters and memorable experiences closer to home.
By Ky Stewart
It’s easy to hold onto the belief that you need to jump on a long-haul flight to get the coastal getaway of your dreams. But Australia’s backyard offers stunning beach destinations without the steep price tag. When you make a few smart trade-offs, like swapping luxury resorts for self-contained stays, you can achieve that same idyllic seaside experience for much less.
Striking white sand, kangaroos lounging along the wild coastline and electric-blue coves that could be mistaken for the Mediterranean.
For a piece of coastal seclusion, consider a stay at Esperance Chalet Village. Rustic, stylish and a little unplugged, this hideaway is a five-minute stroll from Bandy Creek boat harbour. Studio chalets start from $280 per night.
Grab coffee and pastries from the local beach-side vans then head to Cape Le Grand National Park for stunning coastal walks across Lucky Bay.
Lord Howe Island
Sparkling reef lagoons, lush rainforests and dramatic volcanic peaks comparable to Bora Bora’s Mount Otemanu.
Skip the luxury lodges and stay at a self-contained unit like Somerset Apartments (from $240 per night) or Ebbtide Apartments (from $340 per night). Here you’ll find privacy, comfort and easy access to the island’s most popular beaches.
Hand-feed fish at Ned’s Beach or scuba dive around Ball’s Pyramid.
A little bit of planning can give you luxury vibes on a budget. Access flights, accommodation and car rental offers via Travel Booking via the CommBank app. And if the price of a recommended flight drops within 10 days, you could get up to $50 back in travel credits.
The Whitsundays
Tranquil turquoise waters and pure silica sand that rival the beauty of this tropical South Asian gem.
The breezy Airlie Apartments are a five minute walk from Airlie Beach and act as a convenient gateway to the 74 Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef. Prices start from $200 per night.
Board a catamaran and sail out to Whitehaven Beach, go on a daytrip to Hideaway Bay or visit Airlie’s night markets for fresh seafood.
Published: 23 October 2026
An earlier version of this article was published in Brighter magazine.
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