It’s almost Easter time, which normally means lazy days on the couch, eating way too much chocolate and catching up with family you haven’t seen since last Easter.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. Why not make the most of these gifted free days by getting away for a last-minute break – it’s still not too late to lock in an Easter escape. You could keep it low-key with a long weekend somewhere local, or add on a couple of annual leave days and turn it into a getaway somewhere interstate or overseas.
Here are just some ideas for where you can go away for Easter this year.
For Just A Long Weekend
Wollongong, NSW
Amazing surf beaches, laid-back atmosphere and just over an hour’s drive from Sydney; if there’s a reason why you shouldn’t pop down to Wollongong for Easter, it is yet to be discovered. A long weekend is the perfect amount of time to sample plenty of the local produce, fly through the lush Illawarra rainforest on Australia’s highest zip-line, and check out the coastal city’s two lighthouses.
Adelaide Hills, SA
The Adelaide Hills was one of the many regions devastated by Australia’s recent bushfires, so if you’re looking for somewhere to go for the Easter long weekend, we say head for the hills. And much like its name suggests, this region is only a 30-minute drive away from the main centre of Adelaide. With a plethora of wineries, cafes, boutiques and pubs all crying out for visitors, a couple of days spent here is the perfect opportunity to eat plenty, spend big and drink up.
Rockhampton, QLD
Not sure where to go for Easter in Queensland? Why not dodge the crowds on the Gold Coast and head up to Rockhampton. There are incredible walking trails to explore in Mount Archer National Park, you can head underground to see the Capricorn Caves, or even wander through the Rockhampton Art Gallery – which boasts an impressive collection of works by Australian artists.
Mallacoota, VIC
Another bushfire-affected area that also doubles as one of the best Easter holiday ideas if you’re looking for a destination in Victoria is Mallacoota. Located in East Gippsland, the main road to this coastal enclave has recently reopened, which means the town is well and truly back in business. While the pristine beaches are the main drawcard – ideal for swimming, fishing and boating – the hiking and biking tracks are worth checking out, too.
Dubbo, NSW
Love the idea of a country escape from the hustle and bustle of Sydney, but don’t know where to go in NSW for Easter? Why not do as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex did during their Aussie tour and head to Dubbo. With a world-class zoo in Taronga Western Plains, beautiful heritage-listed architecture and a delicious dining scene, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more welcoming rural community to spend a long weekend with.
For A Whole Week
Darwin, NT
As the gateway to the Top End’s natural wonders, a trip to Darwin is one of best Easter holiday ideas in Australia. A week will give you just enough time to enjoy the chilled-out charms of the NT’s colourful capital, and also venture deep into Kakadu National Park. Be sure to leave a couple of days for Kakadu – this magical place is home to epic waterfalls, ancient rock art and phenomenal wildlife.
Broome, WA
Picture this: Cable Beach aglow in the warm light of sunset, a long line of camels plodding along a sandy catwalk. If that sounds like one of the best Easter break holiday ideas you’ve heard in a long time, then you need to hop on a flight to Broome, stat. It’s not just sunsets, great beaches and cute camels that this WA gem has to offer though, you can also catch a movie at the country’s oldest outdoor cinema, visit a pearl farm, or try your luck at the weekly crab races.
Sunshine Coast, QLD
The lovely Sunshine Coast. Of all the Easter family holiday ideas, this would have to be one of our favourites. Beginning in Caloundra and extending north to the Great Sandy National Park, taking in Maroochydore, Noosa, Mooloolaba and Coolum, the Sunshine Coast is a watery playground for those who love spending long days at the beach, browsing markets and hiking in the hinterland. A trip here could be just the thing if you’re looking to escape the impending winter chill from one of the southern states.
Hamilton Island, QLD
Luxury awaits this Easter when you pack your bags for a week-long sojourn on dreamy Hamilton Island. Best leave the kids at home for this trip, because you’ll want to make the most of the five-star resorts, renowned restaurants and activities such as scenic flights to Whitehaven Beach, Great Barrier Reef cruises, world-class spa centres and golfing on a championship course. Suddenly an adults-only Easter is looking pretty good…
Cairns, QLD
It’s never a bad time to visit Cairns, but if you’re stuck on where to go for Easter, then this Far North Queensland haven makes for a pretty alluring destination. Offering access to both the Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef, plus the opportunity to meet local wildlife and learn about Indigenous history, there’s an adventure to suit explorers of all ages. Give it a week and we guarantee you’ll fall in love with Cairns.
For 10 Days
Fiji
If your Easter holiday travel ideas involve nothing more than palm trees, white-sand beaches and all-inclusive hotel packages, say bula to Fiji. Ten days is the perfect amount of time to flop and drop, plus do a bit of exploring if the mood strikes you. April is also the end of Fiji’s summer season, so expect sunny conditions and blue-sky days. What more could you want from an Easter getaway?
Vanuatu
Like Fiji, Vanuatu is a wonderful tropical island option if you’re looking for somewhere to go away for Easter that’s relaxing, warm and easy to organise. It’s not too far away (flights from Australia’s east coast take roughly four hours) and it doesn’t have to be super expensive, as there’s accommodation to suit all budgets. And with an impressive array of things to do, including water sports, village visits and cultural performances, there’s no way your Easter break will be a boring one.
New Zealand
There’s never been a better time to head across the ditch for a much-needed break. The hard part is figuring out where you want to go. For Easter holiday ideas in NZ, it’s hard to go past action-packed Queenstown or the major cities of Wellington and Auckland. Then there’s one of the stunning wine regions, like Marlborough on the South Island or Hawke’s Bay on the North Island. Plan your ten days carefully though, as you won’t want to be too rushed.
Eager for an Easter getaway? Book flights within Australia, to New Zealand or to any international destination (not just the tropical isles mentioned above) with Webjet. You can also book in your Easter accommodation and car hire, if needed.
Hero: Hamilton Island. Credit: prince patel on Unsplash
