Out Of Town: The Best Weekend Escapes In Brisbane And Beyond
Time for a getaway
So, you’re craving a little adventure, perhaps a couple of nights off from cooking and doing the washing, or need some downtime – somewhere to indulge in a couple of cocktails, a fancy lunch, and a break from the grind? You’re speaking our language.
Whether you fancy staying close to home or feel the urge to hit the road and explore distant locations, we’ve got a list of our favourite weekend escapes to book when we need a change of scenery.
Local Stays
Crystalbrook Vincent, Brisbane City
Situated under the Story Bridge alongside a bevy of restaurant heavy hitters such as Greca, Yoko Dining, and Stanley in the Howard Smith Wharves’ precinct, Crystalbrook Vincent is a quintessential Queensland stay. Ideal for city lovers who swoon over sunset views of a city skyline, this boutique hotel has been artistically designed by top architects, and truly embraces the night life.
W Brisbane, Brisbane City
Immerse yourself in luxury when you book a room at W Brisbane. Located on the northern bank of the city, W Brisbane is the perfect place to indulge in culinary delights, sunset cocktails, and truly memorable experiences.
Emporium Hotel South Bank, South Bank
Oozing glamour and style, the Emporium Hotel South Bank is one of the best places in town to book for a quick weekend night away. The five-star hotel boasts lavish rooms complemented by cutting-edge design, a rooftop infinity pool, and a number of award-winning restaurants. Make the most of your city stay and indulge in their spa packages, like this one we recently experienced first hand (you won’t be sorry you did!).
The Calile Hotel, Fortitude Valley
If you’re a local, chances are you’ve spent your fair share of time around the pool at The Calile Hotel sippin’ on cocktails. Opening on James Street in late 2018, The Calile has quickly become one of Brissy’s most popular staycation locations, and it’s not hard to see why. Oh-so-aesthetic and surrounded by luxury shopping boutiques, this urban resort is loved just as much by interstate travellers as the locals.
Sunshine Coast
Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort, Noosa Heads
Hop in the car and hit the road for a city escape in beautiful Noosa. Just over two-hours on the road, you’ll find yourself arriving at this stunning destination. A blend of coastal chic and city luxury, the Sofitel is ideal for couples looking to unwind by the pool with a cocktail in hand. A skip and a jump from Main Beach, you can’t beat a weekend away here. Gather the girls and build your itinerary here!
Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas, Noosa Heads
Located high above Hastings Street in the Noosa National Park, Peppers is a place designed to be enjoyed by all. From families to couples, take it easy in this premium Noosa accommodation that proudly practices eco-conscious sustainability with solar energy and rainwater irrigation. Designed with two accommodation concepts (the resort or villa), there’s something to suit every kind of weekend visitor.
Tingirana Noosa, Noosa Heads
Believe us when we say you’ve never experienced a stay in Noosa quite like this. Perched right on Main Beach, the views from Tingirana are their biggest draw card for vacationers, but it’s the sleek, modern, Hamptons-style design that really sets them apart. Book a room, and experience it for yourself!
Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat, Montville
Secluded in the pristine rainforest of the Sunshine Coast hinterland, Narrows Escape is just 90 minutes north of Brisbane, and well worth a visit. Relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature with breathtaking views over the coastline, park walks, stunning wildlife, and more. Unwind by the crackling fire, soak in a spa made for you, or explore local swimming holes and amazing waterfalls. The choice is yours.
Loea, Maroochydore
This charming coastal escape is just what the doc ordered to recharge and reset. With ten elegantly designed rooms, the stylish and laidback decor is the perfect place to sit back with a book. Featuring a magnesium pool, tranquil garden, free bike hire, and a vintage food truck, you’ll never want to leave.
Gold Coast
JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, Surfers Paradise
This five-star hotel is a dream for families looking for a weekend escape that ticks all the boxes. With award-winning restaurants, sleek and spacious rooms and suites, plus an $8 million dollar lagoon pool (which was voted the best pool in Australia, btw) that features tropical fish, waterfalls, a grotto spa, waterslide, cabanas, man-made beaches, cocktail hut, and snorkeling, you’ll be booking your next stay here before you’ve checked out!
The Star Gold Coast, Broadbeach
If you’re looking for a fast-paced escape, you can’t look past The Star. With its luxurious accommodation and spa, iconic bars, restaurants, and entertainment precincts, alongside the thrills of a world-class casino, a stay here is a truly indulgent adult playground. With multiple accommodation options available, you’ll find the right fit for the type of fun you’re craving.
Eden Health Retreat, Currumbin Valley
This five-star luxury retreat finds itself nestled deep within the beautiful Gold Coast hinterland, just over an hour’s drive from Brisbane. With an aim to connect guests to the beauty of the surrounding nature and a wellness journey, Eden is one escape we could all use. Featuring luxurious lodges, on-site chefs, world-class wellness therapists, and a whole lot more, this is a truly unrivalled experience.
Hazlewood Estate, Beechmont
Located 80 minutes from Brisbane and 40 minutes from the Gold Coast, Hazelwood Estate is a privately-owned polo and Wagyu farm just outside of Beechmont, near Binna Burra in the Scenic Rim. The 75-acre property boasts luxury pavilion and farm cabin-style accommodation, ideal for those looking to unwind surrounded by nature. With horse trail rides, walking tracks, and a stunning paddock-to-plate restaurant replete with cellar, this is one five-star weekend worth travelling for.
Byron Bay (and surrounds)
Halcyon House, Cabarita Beach
Just an hour and 40 minutes south of Brissy is the charming little seaside town of Cabarita. Home to one of Australia’s most beautiful beaches, Caba boasts the stunning boutique hotel stay that is Halcyon House. Designed by Brissy’s own interior designer, Anna Spiro, Halcyon House consists of 19 rooms, an iconic beachfront pool and terrace, Halcyon Spa, and hatted restaurant Paper Daisy. Surrounded by pandanus palms and perched right on the beach, this is one luxury seaside stay you’ve got to tick off the bucket list.
The Sunseeker, Byron Bay
Step back in time to the 70s thanks to this retro-cool motel. More than just your average crash pad, The Sunseeker is bursting with eclectic interiors and quirky furniture pieces. Choose from their standard room or bungalow accommodation, then head on over to their kidney-shaped pool for a little R’n’R. Trust us, it’s well worth the two-hour plus drive.
The Bower, Byron Bay
Combining the laidback lifestyle of Byron Bay with luxurious amenities, the design of The Bower reimagines the beach hotel concept with its modern design and lush greenery. Set to a relaxed, palm-filled backdrop, the property features accommodation styles for all, thanks to a range of room sizes and whole-house offerings.
Raes on Wategos, Byron Bay
Pack your bags, you’re set for a one-of-a-kind weekend away. Located on the idyllic Wategos Beach, Raes is unlike any other. With seven rooms to choose from, including two penthouses, this boutique hotel is a must for those wanting to truly indulge.
Love this article? Check out our list of the most stylish motels near Brisbane here.
