Seaside Stays: Best Beachside Motels for a Laid-Back Coastal Getaway
Nothing says Aussie holiday like the smell of salt in the air, the sound of waves crashing nearby, and a classic motel just steps from the sand. Whether you're chasing surf, sea breezes, or a dose of barefoot simplicity, Australia's coast is dotted with beachside motels that deliver nostalgia, comfort, and easy access to some of the country’s best shores.
Here’s your go-to guide for laid-back coastal getaways—where to go, what kind of experience you can expect, and the motels that make it all happen.
🏖️ Byron Bay, NSW — Boho Vibes and Boutique Retro
Byron Bay might be known for its high-end wellness retreats and celebrity sightings, but it's also home to beautifully restored retro motels that blend 70s surf shack charm with modern comforts.
Top Motels:
The Sunseeker: Retro luxe with palm trees, velvet lounges, and poolside chill.
Byron Motor Lodge Motel: Affordable, clean, and a 5-minute walk from Main Beach.
Who You’ll Meet:
Travelling couples on wellness weekends
Creatives with surfboards and cameras
Road-tripping families who want location + vibe
Experience:
Daily surf and yoga
Morning coffee at a converted combi van café
Local markets, beach picnics, and sunset cocktails
🐚 Esperance, WA — Rugged Beauty and Powder-White Sand
Tucked away in WA’s southern reaches, Esperance offers wild coastal scenery, kangaroos on the beach, and motels with million-dollar views that don’t cost a fortune.
Top Motels:
Ocean Beach Holiday Units: Affordable and family-friendly.
Bayview Motel: Views of the bay, walking distance to restaurants.
Who You’ll Meet:
Nature lovers with cameras and hiking boots
Couples escaping the Perth hustle
Solo adventurers tracing the coastline
Experience:
Scenic drives to Lucky Bay
Whale spotting and bushwalks
Fresh fish and chips by the jetty
🏄 Port Fairy, VIC — Heritage Meets Sea Breeze
Port Fairy offers old-world charm with coastal relaxation. Think colonial cottages, art festivals, and quaint motels just off the Great Ocean Road.
Top Motels:
Central Motel Port Fairy: Garden setting in the heart of town.
Ashmont Motor Inn: Modern amenities with local warmth.
Who You’ll Meet:
Grey nomads doing the Great Ocean Road
Young couples exploring Victoria’s regional towns
Artists, musicians, and foodies
Experience:
Beachfront walks
Seafood platters in heritage pubs
Weekend markets and craft stalls
🌊 Batemans Bay, NSW — Classic Aussie Family Vibes
This laid-back town has long been a family favourite. Affordable motels with pool access and proximity to the beach make it ideal for summer holidays with the kids.
Top Motels:
Mariners on the Waterfront: Right on the Clyde River, with stunning views.
Abel Tasman Motel: Friendly, simple, and ideal for beach-hopping.
Who You’ll Meet:
Multi-generational family groups
Young parents introducing the kids to road trips
Beach bums with boogie boards
Experience:
Mini-golf, fish and chips, and sandcastles
Dolphin spotting and river kayaking
Easy beach days and lazy afternoons
🐬 Coolum Beach, QLD — Surfer’s Playground with Relaxed Energy
Less flashy than its neighbours Noosa or Mooloolaba, Coolum is a gem for travellers seeking sun, surf, and simple motels that keep things casual.
Top Motels:
Coolum Budget Accommodation: Retro charm meets great location.
Beach Retreat Coolum: Motel comfort with resort-style vibes.
Who You’ll Meet:
Surfers and digital nomads
Sunshine Coast locals on a weekend break
Friends on a chill road trip
Experience:
Dawn patrols followed by smashed avo
Coastal bushwalks and tidepool exploring
Watching sunsets with fish tacos in hand
Why Motels Make the Best Beachside Base
Motels are perfect for beach holidays because they offer:
Doorstep parking (no lugging bags up flights of stairs)
Outdoor access for salty towels, sandy feet, and surfboards
Budget flexibility so you can spend more on experiences
Laid-back hosting from people who know the area inside out
You don’t need a luxury resort to enjoy the coast. You need clean sheets, a good night’s sleep, and the beach just steps away.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re winding your way up the coast, returning to a childhood holiday spot, or chasing new ocean views, beachside motels are the perfect fit. They’re affordable, authentic, and full of Aussie charm.
So pack the car, slather on the sunscreen, and get ready for the kind of coastal escape that doesn’t need filters or frills—just good vibes and sea air.