The South Coast of New South Wales has always been one of those “if you know, you know” destinations. This region is all about uninterrupted white sandy beaches, rich blue waters and that dreamy laid back surf lifestyle that sets Australia apart from the rest of the world. The South Coast has always been popular, but over the last few years, this region has been quietly developing. Now it is home to some of the most well-appointed and architecturally masterful hotels in the state.
If you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer retreat, consider this your sign to set your sights South. These are our favourite South Coast accommodations, stays and retro-cool motel renovations for a hotel stay that is just as beautiful as the scenery.
The Hillcrest Merimbula feels a bit like walking back in time and into the coolest tennis club of the 1970s. Following an expert rejuvenation in the early 2020s, this hotel was transformed into one of New South Wales’ best-kept secrets. The renovation was enchantingly sympathetic to the retro spirit of the property, celebrating its unique features, especially its bold, rust-red tennis court.
This South Coast retreat is the latest gem in the Merivale portfolio. The Whale is a boutique sanctuary, a revived property with state-of-the-art facilities and a retro spirit. With 18 rooms, from king rooms to a stunning penthouse, The Whale is an intimate hideaway perfect for those wanting to kick back and slowdown. Make sure you take full advantage of the sauna facilities, on-site restaurant, bike rental and pickleball court.
This motel revival has truly kept the spirit of the 50s and 60s alive. Dolphins Motel has held on tightly to its Googie architecture, deciding to herald these references rather than cover them up. The result is a property that is truly sympathetic to the era it came from, celebrating retro features for their artful character. Make sure you visit the on-site cafe, Dolly’s before spend the rest of the day lazing by the pool.
Another motel-style revival, Motel Molly is a favourite among discerning travellers who prioritise aesthetics. The rooms are surprisingly spacious, equipped with roomy Smeg bar fridges so you have the amenities you need if you want to stay a while. Motel Molly has both surfboard and bike rentals for guests who want to take full advantage of the surrounding nature. There’s also a barbecue, communal seating area and a luxurious pool with loungers.
This quiet retreat is just outside the centre of Batemans Bay and across the road from a tranquil inlet. This well-appointed hotel received the motel revival treatment some years ago and has been a South Coast favourite ever since. The rooms are beautifully designed, and come with Leif body products. There is a communal kitchenette and barbecue for those who want to do their own food prep; a vending machine room, the hotel’s answer to a minibar; and of course there’s the pool, which has sun loungers but also a communal pool house with a fireplace if it’s too chilly to take a dip.
This peaceful retreat in Shoalhaven Heads is the place to go for some true rest and relaxation. The well-appointed villa-style rooms, on-site restaurant, expansive grounds and golf course have made Bangalay a popular spot for destination weddings. Stay in one of the one-bedroom villas, each equipped with a fireplace, or you can book out one of the on-site houses if you’re visiting with a bigger group.
This charming motel renovation is positioned in the central part of Berry. The design calls back to the modernist architecture found in Palm Springs: flat roofs, breeze blocks and bold pops of colour. The body of this hotel was redone some years back, but the owners have only recently added a glamorous pool deck with bold loungers and expansive views over the surrounding nature.
This holiday home is one of the true architectural jewels of the South Coast. The floor-to-ceiling windows at the main property (called the headland) look out over the cliffs and surrounding ocean. These cliff-side ocean views, coupled with the suspended fireplace, will have you practically begging for a rainstorm to watch while you cuddle up under a blanket. The other structure is called The Range, a smaller but equally impressive space designed for families and couples.
Linnaeus Collection is not one hotel. This is a full collection of homes, apartments and a farm stay all around Berry. Connected by intention and design, each of these stays is designed to offer a tranquil and luxurious homestay experience. No matter which property you’re on, there are complimentary transfers to Sara’s Dining (the Linnaeus Collection on-site restaurant). And if you’re with a bigger group, it is possible to book out all five locations which can accommodate 70 guests.
