Searching for inspiration about where to take a break this year? It might be time to look outside the square…
Often, some of the best experiences are found in places not typically on your radar.
We’ve handpicked several destinations that aren’t necessarily top of the travel itinerary for many, yet each has the ability to create a fun-filled escape.
Delve into these action-packed locations – there are two each per state.
Where: 550km south of Sydney.
Set on the shores of Twofold Bay, NSW’s most southern town is enchanting. Beautiful beaches, spectacular coastal views, and a fascinating whaling past are among its highlights coupled with a warm, relaxing vibe.
Top attractions and experiences
Nearby accommodation: Ingenia Holidays Eden Beachfront
Read more with this great guide to Eden here.
Where: 410km north of Sydney.
Known as Australia’s Country Music Capital, Tamworth is a thriving riverside city that has retained its friendly, small-town charm. While highly regarded for its country music roots, the city is no one-hit wonder, entertaining visitors with a variable mix of engaging attractions.
Top attractions and experiences
Nearby accommodation: BIG4 Paradise Tamworth or City Lights Holiday Park.
Discover more things to see in Tamworth here.
Check out all BIG4 parks in NSW here.
Where: 950km north of Brisbane.
Perched at the mouth of the Pioneer River and regarded as the gateway to the Southern Whitsundays, this vibrant coastal city serves up all the attributes for a brilliant break. Beautiful beaches blend with sprawling hinterland, a busy marina neighbours relaxing botanic gardens, and modern architecture melds with art deco. And there is a wealth of enchanting experiences to suit all tastes.
Top attractions and experiences
Nearby accommodation: BIG4 Mackay Blacks Beach Holiday Park or Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park.
Where: 1600km north of Brisbane.
Innisfail delivers instant appeal; its main street dotted with delightful art deco buildings coupled with tall palm trees and a setting at the junction of two rivers. It’s also within grasp of the coast and in striking distance of key sections of the Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Area.
Top attractions and experiences
Nearby accommodation: BIG4 Innisfail Mango Tree Tourist Park.
Learn more about intriguing Innisfail here.
Check out all BIG4 parks in QLD here.
Where: 415km southwest of Perth.
While its name might be better associated with a Scandinavian country, this small coastal town has all the attributes for a right royal escape. Whether seeking adventure or indulgence, Denmark and its surrounds deliver big time.
Top attractions and experiences
Nearby accommodation: BIG4 Denmark Ocean Beach Holiday Park.
Uncover more of delightful Denmark here.
Where: 595km east of Perth.
The Australian Outback’s largest city is steeped in gold-mining history and full of fascinating finds that give it distinction. Coupled with impressive attractions that surround it, Kalgoorlie possesses all the elements for a memorable getaway.
Top attractions and experiences
Nearby accommodation: BIG4 Acclaim Prospector Holiday Park.
More things to see and do in Kalgoorlie here.
Check out all BIG4 parks in WA here.
Where: 125km southwest of Melbourne.
While smaller than many of the star-studded towns along the Great Ocean Road, this coastal hamlet is every bit as appealing. Expect to encounter brilliant beaches synonymous with this stretch as well as excellent attractions for all tastes.
Top attractions and experiences
Nearby accommodation: BIG4 Aireys Inlet.
Where: 190km north of Melbourne.
Set on the Goulburn River and among a rich agricultural area, Shepparton is the perfect place to get away from it all. Its mix of attractions ranges from quirky to first-rate and engages all interests.
Top attractions and experiences
Nearby accommodation: BIG4 Shepparton Park Lane Holiday Park or Shepparton Holiday Park and Village.
Check out all BIG4 parks in VIC here.
Where: 255km east of Adelaide.
Loxton has nabbed a prime piece of river frontage overlooking the Might Murray and symbolises the strong allure of this famous waterway. Its quiet but inviting town centre enhances Loxton’s laidback atmosphere.
Top attractions and experiences
Nearby accommodation: BIG4 Loxton Riverfront Holiday Park.
Where: 435km southeast of Adelaide.
SA’s most populous regional centre bursts with gripping natural attractions that typify the beauty of the wider Limestone Coast region. Mt Gambier also delivers plenty of other first-rate experiences and amenities that ensure it is a destination deserving of extended stays.
Top attractions and experiences
Nearby accommodation: BIG4 Blue Lake Holiday Park.
Unearth more of Mt Gambier's riches here.
Check out all BIG4 parks in SA here.
Where: 250km northeast of Hobart.
St Helens pours on the charm, beginning with a setting overlooking Georges Bay. Its centre expertly blends relaxing with vibrant, and the town’s magnetism is heightened with a positioning that puts it within arm’s reach of stunning natural attractions.
Top attractions and experiences
Nearby accommodation: BIG4 St Helens Holiday Park or Tasman Holiday Parks - St Helens.
Want to know more about St Helens? Read here.
Where: 200km north of Hobart.
While Launceston is possibly the most recognisable name of this list, this historical riverside city still seems somewhat underrated. Its collection of heritage structures is mightily impressive, its parks and gardens plentiful, and literally on its doorstep is an epic gorge. And don’t forget the easy access to first-class wineries from here.
Top attractions and experiences
Nearby accommodation: BIG4 Launceston Holiday Park.
Check out all BIG4 parks in TAS here.
Isn’t it time you planned your next BIG4 break? See all our holiday parks here.