While summer may be officially over, that doesn’t mean the sunshine has to end. There are still plenty of stunning spots around the country to escape for a balmy break, according to Choice Hotels Asia-Pac, whose portfolio includes more than 300 great-value hotels across the region.
To assist holidaymakers in their mission to follow the sun, Choice Hotels has compiled some suggestions for top destinations that still feel like summer. From the heart of historic Kalgoorlie, WA to the white sands of Mackay, QLD, there’s something for everyone who isn’t ready to throw in the (beach) towel quite yet.
Kari Hunter, Senior Director, Commercial and Revenue Management at Choice Hotels Asia-Pac, says Australia offers endless opportunities for holidaymakers looking to extend that summer feeling.
“On the eastern side of our vast country, travellers can enjoy a mix of sun-soaked beaches and rich convict history at Comfort Resort Waters Edge in Port Macquarie, making it a perfect getaway for both relaxation and cultural exploration,” says Kari.
New South Wales and Queensland come into their own when the temperature dips in the southern states. Overall hotel bookings through the Choice Hotels website in these states increase on average 10% from April through to September, driven by guests seeking sunshine.
“Another interesting place to visit at this time is Karratha, the gateway to Western Australia’s Pilbara region and home to some of the world’s most stunning natural landscapes. With the transition to the dry season in progress, you can expect sunny days, with the waterfalls still in full flow. Comfort Inn & Suites Karratha is the perfect starting point for an adventure here,” says Kari.
Kari points to the surge of interest in Karratha, with the Choice Hotels website showing a 50% increase in visitors searching for stays between April and September, when compared to the traditional summer months.
“Whether you’re chasing poolside rest and relaxation, heading off on a family road trip, keen to explore the outdoors, or love learning about history, Choice Hotels has something for everyone. And the best part is that kids under 12 stay free,” says Kari.
Top choices to extend your summer
Keep the summer vibes going by booking your next escape at one of these Choice Hotels destinations. Choice Privileges members can extend their summer and their savings, with 10% off upcoming getaways when booking directly with Choice Hotels.
- Comfort Inn & Suites Karratha, Western Australia – with 23 spacious, airconditioned self-contained apartments including kitchen and laundry facilities, this property is an ideal base for exploring the Pilbara region and its natural wonders, including the waterfalls of Karijini National Park, Millstream-Chichester National Park pools, and the Yaburara Heritage Trail, which features walking tracks through rugged country with a number of Aboriginal rock engraving sites. Nightly rates start from $252*.
- Quality Inn Railway,Kalgoorlie, Western Australia – located near the city centre and conveniently close to the train station, soak up the sun at the outdoor pool and enjoy a delicious meal at the on-site Carriages Restaurant. Being right in the heart of the Goldfields-Esperance region, you’ll be steps away from museums and mine tours exploring the rich history of gold in Australia. Nightly rates start from $215*.
- Comfort Resort Waters Edge, Port Macquarie,NSW – located on the mid-north coast and situated right on the Hastings River, explore beaches just a stone’s throw away while learning about Australia’s convict history at Comfort Resort Waters Edge. With an outdoor pool and waterfront views, this resort has the perfect set up for a summery stay. Nightly rates start from $162*.
- Quality Resort Parkhurst, Rockhampton, Queensland – this contemporary resort is surrounded by vibrant tropical gardens and boasts a 26-metre architecturally designed, lagoon-style pool. It’s an easy walk from all the town has to offer, while also being the ultimate jump-off point for discovering the Capricorn Coast. Nightly rates start from $153*.
- Comfort Resort Blue Pacific, Mackay, Queensland – absolute beachfront accommodation set on three acres of lush tropical garden and just metres from Blacks Beach. From reefs to rainforests and spotting turtles and whales from the beach, it’s a tropical paradise with incredible natural beauty. Nightly rates start from $174*.
- Comfort Inn Deakin Palms, Mildura, VIC – what better way to take in the colourful autumn leaves than with a glass of wine in hand? There are numerous wineries and cellar doors at which to sip and sample around Mildura and 2024 Comfort Hotel of the Year winner Comfort Inn Deakin Palms makes the perfect base. Nightly rates start from $109*.
*Rates based on lowest available rate for Choice Privileges members across April 2025. All rates are subject to availability.
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About us:
Choice Hotels Asia-Pac has more than 300 hotels across the Asia-Pacific region, representing more than 25,000 rooms and making it the region’s largest hotel franchise group. Brands under the Choice Hotels banner include the Ascend Hotel Collection, Clarion, Quality, Comfort and Econo Lodge. Choice Hotels Asia-Pac is a wholly owned subsidiary of Choice Hotels International, a publicly listed (NYSE: CHH) company in the United States. A challenger in the upscale segment and a leader in midscale and extended stay, Choice has more than 7,500 hotels, representing over 650,000 rooms, in 46 countries and territories. For more information, visit www.choicehotels.com.
About Choice Privileges ®
The award-winning Choice Privileges rewards program enables members to earn and redeem points for reward nights at over 7,100 Choice-branded hotels across a diverse portfolio of brands in 46 countries and territories. Members can also exchange points for airline miles including Qantas Frequent Flyer or Velocity Frequent Flyer. To enrol in the free Choice Privileges program visit www.choicehotels.com/choice-privileges
Contact details:
For more information or to arrange interviews, please contact:
Emily Stojcevski | emily@sodacommunications.com.au | 0409 552 913
Angelina Tully | angel@sodacommunications.com.au | 0456 542 990