This sleepy surf town was a local secret until Sea Change showcased its laid-back charms to the world. But Barwon Heads hasn’t let fame go to its head; it’s still the place for a laidback break with plenty of river and surf options for every kind of swimmer. You won’t go hungry in town – Annie’s Provedore is where you can sample local food and wine, The Dunes Restaurant and Bar and At The Heads for seaside dining, and local favourite Tommy Gunns for lunch and dinner and everything in between.

The Grande Dame of the Great Ocean Road has attracted holidaymakers for over 100 years. It’s not just because of Lorne’s beautiful beach – host to the annual Pier to Pub ocean swim – it’s also on the doorstep of the magnificent Otway National Park, offering a host of walking and nature experiences. In the holiday seasons, the town bustles with activity – think busy boutiques, beach cafes and restaurants, and a raft of music and arts events. What really put Lorne on the map as a coastal dining destination is the addition of it’s own Totti’s back in 2023.

The so-called favourite holiday spot for Melbourne’s rich and famous, you don’t need to be wealthy to enjoy Portsea or Sorrento. An easy day trip from Melbourne, its position at the pointy end of the Mornington Peninsula delivers calm bay swimming, a rugged surf beach, and hiking and nature options. For post-swim relaxing, the beer garden of the pretty Portsea Hotel has a millionaire’s view of the Bay. When it comes to dining, there are so many good options you’ll struggle to narrow down where to eat. Our top picks are: Shuhuishi, Bistro Ella, The Baths Sorrento, the list goes on. We’re keen to try Ember at The Continental, which is opening in November.

Its sweeping bay brings families to Apollo Bay year-round for swimming, walks and sand play, but it’s also a brilliant base for exploring Cape Otway and the hinterland forests. Eating seafood is a must. Watch the day’s crayfish haul arrive at the harbour, then visit a local restaurant to enjoy the catch. For casual dining head to Apollo Bay Hotel. If you’re craving authentic Italian, Casalingo Restaurant is for you. Apollo Bay also produces its own gin at Apollo Bay Distillery and craft beer at Great Ocean Road Brewhouse.

Home to the famous oyster of the same name, stand on a seabed and eat them straight from the source. Once you’ve had your fill, head to one of many pristine beaches or explore the Coffin Bay National Park, Kellidie Conservation Park, or the Thorny Passage Marine Park. At this beach town the best way to end your day is with a local wine paired with a seafood feast overlooking the coast.

Aldinga is another small town with a big offering when it comes to food and drink. On any given visit to the seaside destination you’ll find your coffee choices plentiful; Goodness Coffee Co, complete with picturesque courtyard and pastry, is a favourite.Vegans and vegetarians will be pleased by wholefood haven The Slow Kitchen, but rather unexpectedly for its coastal location, it’s a South-East Asian venue which draws most applause; The Little Rickshaw that calls a 190-year-old blacksmith’s workshop home. And of course, you can’t go past the iconic Pearl Restaurant when in Aldinga. The beachside venue serves up a Mediterranean‑inspired seafood menu that makes the most of local produce. Close to Aldinga is Port Wilunga, which is home of South Australia’s OG coastal dining spots, Star of Greece.

Port Elliot is one of South Australia’s most popular holiday spots. As well as beautiful beaches and a rustic timber jetty, its historic streetscapes are home to charming shops and cafes, including the much-loved Port Elliot Bakery, making it one of the best beach towns in the southern state.

Surging popularity has seen Byron’s near neighbour Yamba go from quiet fishing village to bustling beach town. For good reason – the beach, adjoining ocean pool, and surf breaks make it family friendly. Plus there’s plenty to do. Post-surf, have a beer at the iconic Pacific Hotel on the front, or linger over brunch at all day eatery Beachwood.

Within arm’s reach of Byron (30 minutes to be exact) resides the far more covert Cabarita. Though small in stature it’s not limited in offerings when it comes to where to surf or stay – this is the home of adored break (and swim spot) Norries Headland, and luxe oasis Halcyon House with adjoining restaurant Paper Daisy. It’s worth the drive from Byron just for No.35 Kitchen and Bar alone. The trendy Italian-ish restaurant is the perfect spot to plonk yourself after a day of swimming and graze on small plates of burrata, arancini, local king prawn and wood-fired pizza.

Just south of the Queensland border, Kingscliff has all the appeal of its Northerly neighbours but without all the crowds of people. It’s a favourite spot for families, sporting types and nature lovers, with loads of fishing, whale-watching, scuba diving and surfing. When Taverna opened up some six years ago, Kingscliff had officially made it on the foodie map. The Greek-inspired beachfront restaurant evokes all the flavours of the Med while embracing the abundance of local produce. You’ll also find plenty of delicious restaurants and cafes to refuel at.

Just 120 km south of Sydney sits Kiama, the beach town known for cliffside cavers the Kiama Blowhole and Little Blowhole. If you’d prefer to work up a sweat, there’s the 20 km Kiama Coastal Walk, stretching between Minamurra and Werri Beach. Plus plenty of beaches to choose from, like main drag Surf Beach. Once you’ve worked up an appetite in the sea, head to Little Betty’s for craft cocktails, small-batch wines and share plates. For breakfast on-the-go Parfait Patisserie for French bakes goods and Slow Dough for a coffee and to pick up a load of sourdough.

Sapphire Coast resident Merimbula may boast a slew of beautiful beaches and lakes, but it’s seafood for which it’s famed. No trip to this part of the world is complete without indulging in some oysters – it’s the region’s specialty after all. Or paying a visit to one of this stylish coastal town’s many wine bars.

Based around a point break, Crescent Head on the Macleay Valley Coast, has long been a longboard mecca. But while the surf remains a drawcard, alongside bushwalking trails and 4WD tracks, there are more reasons to visit. Watch out for a growing number of eateries to join Crescent’s much-loved resident bakery, and a slew of newly revamped motels, like Sea Sea.

While no longer a hidden gem, a former hippie haven turned chic beach town, Byron Bay remains a popular coastal escape. It’s no surprise considering the Northern Rivers gem houses a cluster of jaw-droppingly beautiful beaches (Wategos and Whites included), and a growing number of design-savvy hotels. When it comes to eating you’re spoiled for choice. From the award-winning Sunday Sustainable Bakery, to high-end restaurants like Pixie and institutions like Bang Bang, you won’t be able to get through them all. Here’s is our ultimate guide to 26 of the best places to eat, drink & stay in Byron.

Thirroul and neighbouring Austinmer are easily one of New South Wales’ best beach towns. Especially if you’re a coffee fan – after all, this beachside stretch nudging Newcastle is home to an impressive number of outstanding cafes. But it’s not just beach and coffee, Thirroul hosts plenty of boutiques to peruse, and sits on the stunning Grand Pacific Drive.