Top Retro & Vintage Motels to Add to Your Bucket List
Australia has a soft spot for retro road trips and vintage vibes. While high-rise hotels and boutique resorts have their charm, there's something irreplaceably nostalgic about pulling into a classic motel after a long day on the road. Whether it's the neon signs, pastel bathroom tiles, or 70s-style lounges, these motels bring back a time when travel was simpler, cheaper, and a whole lot cooler.
If you're ready to travel back in time (without sacrificing comfort), here's a list of retro and vintage motels across Australia that deserve a spot on your bucket list.
1. The Sunseeker – Byron Bay, NSW
Why it’s iconic:
Recently reimagined with retro flair, The Sunseeker keeps its 80s bones while introducing lush interiors, terrazzo floors, and a laid-back vibe.
What makes it special:
- Classic kidney-shaped pool
- Vintage minibars and Marshall speakers
- Tropical gardens and courtyard relaxation
Perfect for:
Creative road-trippers looking for a chic-but-chilled escape.
2. Blue Mountains Motel – Katoomba, NSW
Why it’s iconic:
Nestled in the misty mountains, this family-owned gem hasn’t changed much since the 1960s—and that’s exactly why people love it.
What makes it special:
- Original brickwork and retro furnishings
- Close to Echo Point and vintage antique stores
- Old-school complimentary breakfast service
Perfect for:
Couples seeking a slow escape with some history.
3. Palms Motel – Darwin, NT
Why it’s iconic:
This pastel-drenched motel feels like a postcard from the 1970s tropics.
What makes it special:
- Mint green exterior and palm tree décor
- Retro pool with flamingo floaties
- Located in Darwin CBD with easy access to Mindil Beach Markets
Perfect for:
Sun-chasers and retro photo fanatics.
4. Halcyon House – Cabarita Beach, NSW
Why it’s iconic:
Once a classic surf motel, it’s now a stylish throwback to coastal holiday vibes with timeless design.
What makes it special:
- A blend of Mediterranean-meets-retro
- Designer décor with vintage fabrics
- Award-winning restaurant "Paper Daisy"
Perfect for:
Luxe lovers who still appreciate a bit of retro soul.
5. The Manna – Hahndorf, SA
Why it’s iconic:
Tucked into one of Australia’s oldest German villages, The Manna balances mid-century charm with modern comfort.
What makes it special:
- Clean lines and minimalist retro styling
- Walking distance to bakeries, pubs, and artisan shops
- Room balconies for sunset watching
Perfect for:
Foodies and wine-lovers exploring the Adelaide Hills.
6. The Lorne Hotel & Motel – Lorne, VIC
Why it’s iconic:
Right on the Great Ocean Road, this seaside staple oozes beachside nostalgia.
What makes it special:
- Ocean views from retro-style rooms
- Historic pub downstairs for live music
- An institution for generations of Aussie travellers
Perfect for:
Families and surfers chasing waves and memories.
7. Elkira Court Motel – Alice Springs, NT
Why it’s iconic:
Classic desert-town motel vibes with a reputation for resilience and red-dirt charm.
What makes it special:
- Mid-century signage and layout
- Close to Todd Mall and desert day tours
- Air-conditioned relief after outback heat
Perfect for:
Outback explorers and cross-country road trippers.
8. The Royal Mail Hotel – Dunkeld, VIC
Why it’s iconic:
A blend of retro motel rooms and historic hotel experience in one tidy Grampians base.
What makes it special:
- Designer updates with vintage flair
- Locally renowned dining experience
- Gateway to stunning hikes.
Perfect for:
Nature-lovers with a taste for good food.
Why Retro Motels Are Back in Style
In the age of Instagram and aesthetic getaways, retro motels tick all the right boxes:
- Authenticity: Nothing feels more real than a room that hasn’t been overstyled or over-commercialised.
- Affordability: Compared to trendy hotels, motels offer serious value.
- Local charm: They’re often owned by locals who love to share secret spots and stories.
- Photogenic: From checkered floors to pink bathrooms, retro motels are made for the ‘gram.
Tips for Booking the Best Retro Motel Experience
- Check reviews for cleanliness—retro doesn’t have to mean rundown.
- Pack accordingly: Think polaroids, picnic rugs and playlists.
- Be flexible: Some of the most authentic motels are a bit off the beaten path.
Final Thoughts
Retro motels aren't just places to sleep. They're a vibe, a memory, and an experience all rolled into one. Whether you’re road tripping with mates, going solo with your camera, or treating someone special to a nostalgic escape, these motels bring something irreplaceable to your journey.
So dust off your duffel bag, cue the Fleetwood Mac, and set your GPS for vintage Aussie charm. Because your next unforgettable stay might just be behind a neon sign and a swinging screen door.