By Arabella Peterson Entertainment 28.05.2018

22 Weekend Escapes in Australia For Under $300 a Night

These handpicked hotels across Australia make the perfect setting for your next getaway.

We love a weekend away in an Airbnb – the freedom to cook what you want, do your laundry, and spread out like it’s your own space. However, there’s something undeniably indulgent about a hotel stay. Starting the day with a leisurely buffet breakfast and coming back to a turned-down room, all while someone else handles the housekeeping. It’s a perfect change of pace from the responsibilities of home life. Having everything taken care of just feels more special and luxurious.

Unfortunately, with the rising cost of living, it’s difficult to justify too many of these types of escapes. It’s not an easy task these days to find high-quality accommodation for less than $300 per night, especially if you're booking last minute, so we’ve done the hard work for you. These hotels are all rated at least 4-stars, so you can be sure you’ll enjoy a premium experience without breaking the bank.

New South Wales

1. West Hotel Sydney, Curio Collection by Hilton

Whether we’re talking about the prestigious hotel chain or our favourite heiress, the Hilton name has been synonymous with glamour for decades. In 2014, the company launched Curio Collection by Hilton, a brand created for travelers seeking local discovery and authentic experiences while benefitting from the Hilton Honours program. From urban landmark properties to grand beach resorts, hotels are hand-picked and one-of-a-kind, unified under the Hilton umbrella. West Hotel Sydney is one of Australia’s east coast offerings in this boutique-inspired portfolio, complete with a jungle atrium, city views and every amenity you need. A stone’s throw from the iconic Darling Harbour and Barangaroo, it's within 10 minutes of cultural landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Art Gallery of New South Wales.

Book a King Banksia Deluxe room from $294 here.

2. Cremorne Point Manor

If you're looking to stay in one of Sydney's most picturesque and well-connected neighbourhoods – close to the water, central, but removed from the hustle of the CBD – Cremorne Point Manor offers all that and more. Set in an elegant 19th-century Federation building, this boutique 29-room Harbourside Guesthouse is one of the city’s oldest hotels. Located on the scenic North Shore, it’s the tranquil base for exploring local gems like Taronga Zoo, Luna Park, and the Cremorne Point Walking Track, or for discovering nearby prestige suburbs including Mosman, Neutral Bay, and Balmoral Beach.

Book a Deluxe King Suite from $250 here.

3. Pacific Bay Resort, Coffs Harbour

Home to idyllic beaches, whale watching, rainforests, nature reserves, and of course, the iconic Big Banana, Coffs Harbour is a coastal city with natural beauty in spades and tonnes of charm. Pacific Bay Resort is a laid-back retreat that has been a part of the Coffs Coast community for over twenty-five years – so you know they’ll recommend all the best food and activities in the area. To make your vacation extra relaxing, treat yourself to a full body massage, facial or pedicure at the on-premises Tranquility Day Spa.

Book a Standard Hotel Room from $190 here.

4. Azabu Retreat & Spa Byron Bay

Everyone knows Byron Bay is one of Australia’s dreamiest destinations – but it’s also become one of the most expensive. That’s why Azabu Retreat & Spa is such a rare find. Tucked away on a stunning five-acre property surrounded by native flora, this boutique destination offers a more affordable slice of luxury. The zen, minimalist rooms take their cues from Japanese design, creating a serene space to unwind. Spend your days by the resort-style pool, soak in the outdoor heated spa, or treat yourself at the exclusive day spa. Still feeling tense? Meditate on the forest-fringed yoga platform and let the surroundings do the rest.

Book a King Suite from $188 here.

5. Bay Breeze Boutique Accommodation Batemans Bay

Batemans Bay is known for its stunning beaches and some of the best waterfront dining in the state – and Bay Breeze is a gorgeous place to take it all in. Set along over 100km of pristine coastline stretching from Batemans Bay to Mystery Bay, the region offers powder-soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and surf spots to suit all levels. Whether you're after a stylish motel suite or a spacious waterfront apartment with a private balcony, Bay Breeze has a room to suit. Located right on the promenade, this chic oasis offers uninterrupted views of the tides and sunsets, while putting you just steps away from everything the Bay has to offer – boutique shopping, restaurants, bars, and cinemas.

Book a Non-Waterfront First Floor room from $180 here.

Australian Capital Territory

6. A by Adina Canberra

Get the best of both worlds with this “hotel living” concept – blending the spaciousness and autonomy of upscale apartments with the full-service amenities and hospitality of a luxury hotel. If you’re a fan of sophisticated, modern design, you’ll find it within the four walls of this sculptural stay. A by Adina Canberra is perched on the doorstep of the famed Parliamentary Triangle at Lake Burley Griffin. Situated amongst the buzzing line-up of must-experience landmarks, you’ll have the best of The Capital right at your fingertips.

Book the One Bedroom King from $280 here.

7. Avenue Hotel Canberra

With 213 hotel rooms, spa suites, and one- and two-bedroom apartments, you’ll likely find just the right fit at Avenue Hotel. Located in the CBD, it’s within walking distance of all the chicest restaurants, shopping and cultural landmarks, making it a vibrant hub for exploring the city. While it’s finally being appreciated for its art, culture and design scene, Canberra is still an underrated culinary city – but that’s quickly changing. Foodies will appreciate Avenue Hotel’s award-winning on-site restaurant, Marble & Grain – a bistro with a focus on premium local produce and bold flavours.

Book the Spa Suite with balcony from $274 here.

Victoria

8. Peppers Marysville

If you live in Melbourne and are looking for an hideaway not too far from home (but just far enough to feel like a real vacation), Peppers Marysville is just a 90-minute drive from the city. For those travelling from elsewhere, this contemporary-designed hotel is close enough to savour a day exploring Melbourne, while staying immersed in nature. This tranquil riverside location is in the picturesque Yarra Valley, allowing you to hike through Yarra Ranges National Park, Cathedral Ranges or Lake Mountain before reclining poolside or recharging at the on-site restaurant and bar.

Book a King Superior Room from $240 here.

9. Royal Mail Hotel, Dunkeld

After transforming a humble inn and surrounding farmland in the 1980s, The Royal Mail Hotel quickly became one of Victoria’s most celebrated regional escapes. Generations of Dunkeld residents have filled their tables with local produce, and with a focus on conservation and community, the team behind Royal Mail Hotel preserve these traditions. They do this with sustainable, home-grown ingredients at their two-hat fine dining restaurant Wickens, which has the most extensive working kitchen garden in Australia. Watch the magical light of golden hour sweep over the breathtaking Mount Sturgeon, kick your feet up in premium accommodation, and dive into one-of-a-kind food, wine and nature experiences just steps away from the spectacular Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.

Book a standard room from $235 here.

10. The Sands Torquay

Celebrating the surf coast culture of the Torquay region, The Sands combines sophistication and relaxation. You don’t have to be an avid golfer to stay at this hotel, but those who are will have the life of their life playing the unique 18-hole championship golf course, molded into the sand dunes and designed by Australia’s very own world ranked professional golfer, Stuart Appleby. There’s also a health club, pool, cafe, bars and dining, so boredom isn’t on the cards. If you’re more interested in making the most of some rest and downtime, the rooms have recently been renovated, so you’ll be immersed in comfort and luxury. Did we mention it’s dog-friendly?

Book a King-Sized Urban Classic room from $184 here.

Queensland

11. The Abbey, Warwick

For 93 years, The Abbey was home to the Sisters of Mercy nuns. Then, in 1988, when it was no longer used as a convent, it was opened as a campus for tertiary education. After a storied history, the building was lovingly renovated into a boutique hotel in 1994 – full of character and the romance of yesteryear. If you’re dreaming of a country weekend, this 1891 heritage-listed hotel in the Southern Granite Belt region is a magical blend of nostalgia and charm. Complete with a restaurant and bar, and built upon two acres of beautifully manicured grounds, it’s the prime spot for weddings, functions, or just a quiet weekend away.

Book a Kind-Sized room from $285 here.

12. Burke & Wills Hotel, Toowoomba

Known as the ‘Garden City’ of Queensland, Toowoomba is famous for its stunning floral displays and horticulture, making it a lovely place to explore year-round. The city boasts beautifully preserved federation-era buildings, heritage-listed churches, and stately homes, as well as panoramas of the Lockyer Valley and a range of scenic nature walks. If you’re after a weekend in a smaller, more low-key Australian city, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here at a slow pace. Burke & Wills Hotel is in the heart of the city, so you’ll be perfectly positioned to explore the cafés, gardens, and galleries that make Toowoomba so charming.

Book a Superior Queen room from $265 here.

South Australia

13. Largs Pier Hotel

With its grand bluestone façade, towering balconies and sea views, Largs Pier Hotel offers old-world elegance just 30 minutes from Adelaide’s CBD. Set in the laid-back coastal suburb of Largs Bay, it’s a convenient place for a beachside sanctuary with a strong sense of local ease. Rooms range from heritage suites with four-poster beds and spa baths to modern apartments just across the road. Downstairs, Largs Bar serves up local wines, craft beers, and crowd-pleasing pub classics with outlooks over St Vincent Gulf, while the Pier Restaurant offers a more refined dining experience in lush Art Deco surrounds. Whether you’re here for a weekender or a longer stay, this seaside haven delivers on comfort and character.

Book a Deluxe Heritage Corner Room from $240 here.

14. The Hilton Adelaide

Our second Hilton entry on this list, this time in the underrated but effortlessly cool city of Adelaide. Set on Victoria Square in the heart of the city, there’s a mix of classic luxury with unbeatable access to Adelaide’s best shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. Just steps from the Central Market and Chinatown, this modern hotel features spacious rooms, a heated outdoor pool, and city vistas. But the real highlight is the food and drink – Coal Cellar + Grill showcases South Australia’s best produce with a refined grill menu and a wine cellar boasting over 500 local and international labels. For something more casual, head to The Collins Bar – a moody, 1920s-inspired space pouring some of the city’s best cocktails.

Book a King Hilton Deluxe Plus room from $213 here.

Western Australia

15. Bridgeport, Murray Bridge

Set on the banks of the Murray River, Bridgeport Hotel offers a polished experience in one of South Australia’s most scenic regional towns. The rooms are modern and stylish, with some offering private balconies and expansive river scenery. Between dips in the heated infinity pool and strolls through nearby parks and walking trails, guests can savour seasonal, South Australian fare at the Rivergum Restaurant or indulge in cocktails and sunset horizons from The Terrace alfresco bar. With a wine list that champions local producers and a high tea offering in the lounge, Bridgeport offers big-city comfort with atmospheric country charm.

Book the Deluxe Bridgeview Suite from $234 here.

16. Caves House Hotel Yallingup

A heritage icon in the heart of Yallingup, Caves House Hotel pairs coastal living with over a century of history – without the luxury price tag. Originally built in 1903 to host cave-bound adventurers, the hotel now welcomes a new wave of surfers, foodies, and weekenders with its grand Art Deco architecture, lush gardens, and lively atmosphere. Stay in the restored heritage rooms or modern apartments, and revel in daily live music, local wines, and elevated pub fare in the bustling beer garden or Yallingup Room. With Ngilgi Cave just minutes away and the beach within walking distance, Caves House is the kind of place where nature, nostalgia, and a cold drink all come together seamlessly.

Book the Budget Heritage Room from $195 here.

17. Pier 21 Apartment Hotel

Tucked along the tranquil banks of the Swan River, Pier 21 is a chilled-out yet refined base for exploring all that Fremantle has to offer. The bright, modern suites and apartments come with a kitchenette, river or garden views, and access to a full suite of resort-style facilities, including an indoor heated pool, gym, tennis court, paddleboards, and complimentary bikes. Mornings start with barista coffee and a generous breakfast in the lounge, and afternoons are made for sizzling lunch at the poolside BBQ or ordering in chef-prepared meals. You’re just minutes from Fremantle’s famed markets, beaches, and buzzing bars – but with so much on-site, you might not want to leave.

Book a Studio Hotel from $260 here.

18. Crowne Plaza Perth

Set on the quieter east side of the CBD with vast scenes over Langley Park and the Swan River, Crowne Plaza Perth is a casual but well-appointed stay. Rooms are spacious, and some come with balconies overlooking the water if you can snag a deal. It’s a serene spot that still keeps you close to Perth’s best attractions – like Elizabeth Quay, Matagarup Bridge, and Optus Stadium. There’s a palm-lined rooftop infinity pool, a 24/7 gym, and a modern Australian menu at Gusti Restaurant, best enjoyed alfresco with a glass of Margaret River wine.

Book a Queen Premium room from $199 here.

Tasmania

19. Scamander Beach Resort

On the edge of the turquoise waters of the Scamander River and the wild beauty of Tasmania’s east coast, Scamander Beach Resort is the kind of place that invites you to slow down and take a break. Rooms are simple and serene, with the Premium Ocean View King offering front-row seats to sunrises from a private balcony. The resort’s Beaches Oceanview Eatery dishes up hearty meals made with regional ingredients – just what you need after a day exploring Bay of Fires or lounging on the uncrowded beach just steps away. With off-street parking and all-day dining, it’s an easy trip for travellers chasing simplicity and comfort.

Book the Premium Ocean view King Room from $278.

20. Country Club Tasmania

With leafy surrounds, playful wildlife, and everything from a casino to woodfired pizza, Country Club Tasmania offers a surprisingly diverse stay just 10 minutes from Launceston. You can choose from the main resort’s 4.5-star rooms with golf course backdrops and elegant interiors, or stay at the more low-key, self-contained Villas down the road – ideal for families or longer getaways. On-site dining ranges from fine Tasmanian options at Terrace Kitchen to casual meals and woodfired pizzas at Bolters Grill and Pizzeria. Whether you’re here to tee off, indulge in local wine, or simply unwind in peaceful surrounds, it’s a resort-style escape at a very reasonable price.

Book the Deluxe King room from $195 here.

Northern Territory

21. Cullen Bay Resorts

Fuss-free and idyllically situated – Cullen Bay Resorts is a down-to-earth gem overlooking Darwin Harbour and the vibrant Marina. Whether you’re after a simple hotel room or a fully self-contained apartment, this family-friendly stay offers comfort and convenience just a short stroll from Mindil Beach Markets, SkyCity Casino, and some of the city’s best waterside dining. Luxuriate with a sunset swim in the pool, fire up the BBQ, or unwind on your balcony with a vision of the boats drifting by. With a kids' pool, and great local access, it’s the ideal Darwin getaway without blowing the budget.

Book the Premium Hotel room with Waterview from $271 here.

22. Golden Sands Retreat Wagait Beach

Just a quick ferry ride from Darwin, Golden Sands Retreat is a beachfront hideaway where you’ll step right into tropical living. Set on the pristine shores of Wagait Beach, it offers stunning seascapes, alfresco dining, and a games room complete with a vintage arcade machine and pool table. With live music and cold beverages at the nearby Cox Country Club just down the road (they’ll even drive you there and back), and a sunrise beach walk to start your day, this is the kind of place that makes you want to stay a little longer – unpretentious, caring and hospitable.

Book a Units from $180 here.

Please note that prices and availability were accurate at the time of writing, based on our independent research. Hotel rates may fluctuate due to demand, seasonal changes, or booking conditions, and some rooms may no longer be available at the listed price. We recommend checking directly with the hotel or booking platform for the most up-to-date information.