Travel ideas for the best Easter Long Weekend getaway

Easter is just around the corner! Have you decided how you’re going to escape, unplug, and relax over your four-day weekend? With the heat and humidity of summer behind us, the cool temperatures and warm weather make April one of the most popular times to enjoy Australia.

The Easter long weekend is the perfect time to make the most of all Australia has to offer. Here are our top five picks for the best Easter weekend getaways that will inspire you to see more of this epic country.

Byron Bay, New South Wales

A tranquil place to relax.

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Known for its easy-going vibe, as a highly sought-after beach destination and a fast-growing cultural hub for music and art, Byron Bay is ideal if you’re looking for a beautiful place to chill out. If you're looking for a “do-nothing” kind of holiday, Byron has heaps of luxury accommodation that will make you feel like royalty. Pair that with a plethora of local breweries and tasty dining options, and you’ve got a rejuvenating Easter break.

Where to eat in Byron Bay?

Roll out of bed and enjoy a tasty late breakfast or early lunch at Byron’s beloved Bayleaf Cafe. All ingredients are freshly sourced from local farmers, and the coffee will satisfy even the most seasoned caffeine aficionado.

What to do in Byron Bay?

Enjoy the offerings of the local breweries and distilleries with the “Behind the Barrell” leisurely tasting tour. The itinerary comprises four different local watering-holes with all drinks and a hearty lunch included. Try snagging discounted tickets for you and your friends on Groupon, but be quick!

Where to shop in Byron Bay?

Oil Garden has been providing essential oils to Australian’s for over 30 years. Take that relaxing Byron vibe back home with you with Oil Garden’s 100% pure essential oils.

Gold Coast, Queensland

So many things to do!

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Where the city meets the ocean. The Gold Coast is the ultimate Easter getaway if you’re after a holiday with heaps to keep you entertained. Whether you are in the mood for chilling by the water at Burleigh Heads, shopping till you drop at Pacific Fair, or making a day trip to a theme park - the Gold Coast has you covered. Perfect for families who need to entertain young children while also making sure Mum and Dad have some much-needed down-time, the Gold Coast offers a variety of flexible options to help you do just that.

Where to eat on the Gold Coast?

Just a five-minute walk from Surfers Paradise, Bumbles Cafe is the quintessential choice if you want to eat like a local. Great for the entire family, Mum and Dad can enjoy a delicious bite to eat while the kids enjoy the secluded Budds Beach. Be sure to stop in for lunch, you have to try Tim’s Lasagne!

What to do on the Gold Coast?

The Gold Coast is the theme park capital of Australia, with four parks to choose from there is so much opportunity for fun and adventure.

  • Dreamworld is perfect if you are looking for rides that thrill and excite, it also has WhiteWater World just next door–a labyrinth of waterslides and tube rides that will get the heart racing.
  • Take your water experience to the next level and visit Wet’n’Wild, they’ve got the most extreme waterslides in the Southern Hemisphere!
  • Warner Bros. Movie World is a fun blend of film-based attractions and exhilarating adrenaline rides. Make sure you check out the Scooby-Doo Coaster!
  • SeaWorld is the perfect place for younger kids who love animals. Watch seals and dolphins perform incredible stunts and get some of the best views from the park's rollercoasters. Can’t choose? Why not do all of them? Adrenaline offers a three-day pass to Wet’n’Wild, Movie World, and Sea World.

Where to shop on the Gold Coast?

With over 400 stores to explore, Pacific Fair is a must-visit shopping destination. Open till late, this customer paradise has all your favourite brands - Forever New, General Pants Co, Glue, and everything in between. Check their events page to find out what’s happening while you’re visiting.

Barossa Valley, South Australia

A foodies dream Easter holiday getaway.

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An Easter Weekend in the Barossa is about three things - sampling gourmet local produce, staying amongst the vineyards, and tasting some of the best wine in the world. Just over an hour’s drive from the north of Adelaide, the Barossa Valley is home to some of the world’s best cellar doors such as Penfolds, Jacob’s Creek, and Wolf Blass. A four-day long-weekend is the ideal amount of time to experience all the Barossa offers, especially if you’re popping in from NSW or Queensland. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a fun weekend with friends, the Barossa Valley is one of the best places to visit during the Easter break.

Where to eat in the Barossa Valley?

Harvest Kitchen is a Barsson institution that has food lovers flocking from everywhere to experience. With a seasonal menu built on a long history of lunch culture, the “Feed me like a Barossan” menu is by far their most popular option. At just $62pp, the kitchen chooses a menu that features a range of culinary delights abundant in flavour.

What to do in the Barossa Valley?

Based in the Barossa for over forty years, Elderton Wine’s long history has established them as connoisseurs. The iconic Australian winery has a fun ‘Taste, Set, Match’ experience ideal for couples and groups of friends. Enjoy a refreshing wine tasting paired with a friendly game of tennis on their perfectly manicured lawn tennis court.

Where to shop in the Barossa Valley?

The Barossa Farmers Market is the best place to bottle up the taste of the Barossa Valley and take it home with you. From olive oils and confectionery to jams, preserves, and teas, the Farmers Market is a foodie paradise. Open every Saturday morning from 7.30am, this is a must-visit over the Easter Long Weekend.

Hobart, Tasmania

Get out into nature!

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Likely the closest thing to an overseas holiday you can get during this global pandemic, a trip to Tassie is a great way to enjoy an “overseas” Easter getaway. From gorgeous botanic gardens to picturesque bushwalks through national parks, Tasmania is a great destination for those seeking some solid time in nature. With Hobart as your base, a hike around Dove Lake and up to Cradle Mountain is a must. Afterward, spend your evenings in town and venture up to North Hobart (or “Noho”, as the locals call it), and enjoy some of the city's top live-music venues.

Where to eat in Hobart?

If you follow the peaceful Cascade Track all the way to the end, you’ll reach the oldest operating brewery in the country, Cascade Brewery. While you’re there, take a tour of the Gothic brewery or admire it from the lush gardens of the brewhouse. This is a must-visit spot for a bite and a pint.

What to do in Hobart?

Up for a bit of exercise and a bit of adventure? Why not learn about the history of this incredible city while burning a few calories at the same time? The Hobart Kayak tour on Red Balloon is the best way to see Tasmania’s capital. This two-and-a-half-hour tour takes you past the bustling waterfront, along the Derwent River, and just outside of the city.

Where to shop in Hobart?

Salamanca Market is one of Australia’s most vibrant and loved outdoor markets. Located by the Hobart waterfront, it's a shopping experience that is hard to beat. Visit any time between 8.30am and 1.30pm each Saturday.

Cairns, Queensland

Extend your summer.

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April is one of the best times of the year to visit the top end of Australia. From white-water rafting, chasing waterfalls, and hanging out by the lagoons, Cairns is the best Easter holiday destination in Australia if you’re feeling like you didn’t get enough out of summer. With the Great Barrier Reef right on your doorstep, Cairns offers an immersive and exciting Easter Weekend that will make you truly appreciate the incredible beauty of Australia.

Where to eat in Cairns?

The Chambers boasts a unique Modern Australian menu. Located in an iconic Cairns city landmark, they set each dish to hero the local produce of the region. This is the perfect spot to gather over great food, drinks, and above all a fantastic atmosphere.

What to do in Cairns?

Tick it off your bucket list! Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef is the best way to extend your summer. Spend a full day out in the ocean searching for tropical marine life in crystal clear waters. Viator has great deals on the best reef excursions, book now!

Where to shop in Cairns?

Situated in the dense tropical rainforest, the Kuranda Markets have plenty of things to peruse - from opals and macadamia nuts to Aboriginal artwork. Open from 9.30am, it’s a great place to both discover hidden treasures and enjoy the beauty of the rainforest.

Book your Easter Weekend with Cashrewards and save

Cashrewards can put cashback in your pocket when you book your Easter Weekend with one of our many online travel partners. Whether you are booking flights, insurance, accommodation, or experiences, Cashrewards members can save. Join Cashrewards and get even more out of your long weekend getaway this Easter.

Before you lock in your plans, make sure you're aware of the latest Australian travel restrictions. Domestic travel could change, so please stay up-to-date with the latest news and guidelines by visiting the Government’s website.

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