The roof deck at The Surf, Yamba. Photograph courtesy of The Surf / Elise Hassey. In Australia, the arrival of autumn brings dewy mornings, cooler evenings, and pleasant sea temperatures. If you are seeking a last-minute escape over the Easter long weekend or simply wish to indulge in a seaside long lunch, the T Australia editors have rounded up noteworthy accommodations and experiences that will have you making the most of the transitional weather. From a luxurious cottage nestled on the South Coast, to a boutique hotel with breathtaking views, discover the destinations – and destination diners – worth booking this month.
The Surf, Yamba NSW
Yamba, the quiet seaside town situated on the Northern Rivers of NSW, is renowned for its lush countryside and picturesque beaches. The Surf, a cali-inspired boutique hotel, embodies this coastal charm. Located on the southern headland, just moments from the sand of the main beach, The Surf is easy to recognise with its retro striped shade panels and white curved walls – a nod to the classic ocean liners that would troll the Pacific. The nostalgia is carried into the interiors with rooms that feature soft timber furnishings, pastel-coloured terrazzo tiles, and limited edition artworks by Macedon Ranges artist Elizabeth Barnett and Melbourne visual artist Caroline Walls. The accomodation’s most distinctive feature, though, is the luxurious roof deck. Here, travellers can take in uninterrupted, 360-degree views of the sea and headland from a sun lounge or the above deck heated pool. The aqua-coloured tub is set at a comfortable temperature year-round, making it hard to want to leave – but when you eventually do, there’s a warm waterfall shower to retreat to.thesurfyamba.com.au
Coca Chu, Hamilton Island QLD
There’s lots to love about Hamilton Island’s balmy climates: the sea temperature rarely drops below 20 degree celsius, the surrounding rainforests are thriving with native species, and fresh produce is abundant. At Cocoa Chu, a relaxed restaurant overlooking the white sands of Catseye Beach, guests can expect to experience the best local ingredients fused with bold Asian flavours. The menu is inspired by hawker-style street food in south-east Asia, featuring rotating dishes such as the tiger prawn betel leaf with peanuts, lime leaf, coriander and coconut; the crispy half duck with sour plum sauce, Sichuan pepper and lemon; and stir-fried Asian greens with mushrooms, chilli garlic and oyster sauce. Plates are designed to share, with the option to do a banquet for larger groups. The seaside gem is also perfect for a table of two, with the sound of lapping waves in the background sure to dial up the romance. hamiltonisland.com.au.
Maple Cottages, Berry NSW
Traditionally, a cottage is understood to be a a cosy, quaint space with charming, old-fashioned features. The Linnaeus Collection – a “deconstructed hotel” group renowned for its properties along the South Coast – defy expectations with their Maple Cottages in Berry, NSW. The latest of the two being Maple on Edward, located in the heart of the historic town.
Radiating with natural light, Maple on Edward offers a luxurious four-bedroom haven, perfect for groups or families seeking an escape from the everyday. Each bedroom is thoughtfully designed, featuring rustic finishes and warm earthy tones.
Here, guests are invited to embrace the outdoors, whether that be unwinding by the fireplace, lounging by the plunge pool, or cooking in the built-in outdoor kitchen. Alternatively, for travellers who prefer not to cook on holiday, some of the region’s finest restaurants are just a short stroll away.
Maple on Edward seamlessly blends modern luxury with rustic charm, promising an unforgettable retreat for discerning travellers seeking both comfort and adventure. linnaeuscollection.com
Sydney to Sydney Cruise, Oceania
Planning for a trip around Australia can often require travellers to vacate anywhere from a year to six months of their time. Oceania’s Sydney to Sydney trip docks in each state, as well as Indonesia, in just over a month. The 34-day affair invites passengers to travel luxuriously while still having a diverse cultural experience. The Regatta departs from Sydney in late 2024 and heads north to Queensland before following the coastline around to Darwin, Bali, Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania. On the days spent cruising the various seas, passengers can enjoy the best of the vessel’s offerings. Each deck – fit out with custom stone and tile work – offers its own adventure, from a golf putting green to an expansive pool deck and the tranquil Aquamar Spa. Explore now.
oceaniacruises.com.
A by Adina, Sydney NSW
The Easter long weekend is just around the corner, and if you’re yet to lock in a vacation – or a staycation – Sydney’s luxurious A by Adina still has some availability for its studio suites. The urban oasis is positioned in the heart of the CBD, ideal for travellers wanting to immerse themselves in the festivities at The Royal Easter Show or explore the city’s extensive offerings. Though, guests don’t have to go anywhere at all to experience an exceptional culinary affair. Dean & Nancy on 22, the hotel’s glamorous bar and restaurant, is located on level 22 – boasting 360-degree views of Sydney’s skyline. It’s from the same group behind the multi-award winning bar Maybe Sammy, and delivers a similar list of playful cocktails and table-side theatrics. T Australia’s recommendation? Order the signature “Above the Clouds” cocktail. abyadina.com
