How the humble motel made a comeback
Demand for beachside motels jumps as Aussies opt to play on home turf
With the latest Wotif figures showing the number of Aussies considering a motel for their next trip is up by 75 percent in the post-pandemic environment, demand for beach motels has also jumped, an increase of over 35 percent an indication the humble motor hotel has made a comeback in a big way.
The figures have prompted Wotif to reveal its top 10 beachside motels in Australia with Queensland and NSW beachside suburbs topping the list.
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Wotif Managing Director, Daniel Finch said with the company’s stats showing 70 percent of Aussies are planning a domestic trip this summer, there was no better time to showcase some of the country’s coolest accommodation options.
“No longer just a convenient roadside room to rest your head, the quality of today’s revamped motels is second to none, with recent renovations, great local hospitality and unique character and charm,” he said.
“And the best thing about a motel as we head into a bumper summer travel season, is that many offer great availability and affordability with an average accommodation rate of $180 per night.”
And according to Wotif, almost a quarter of Aussies (24 percent) agree the best motels are located near the beach.
Wotif has based its top 10 based on location, affordability, décor, traveller reviews and arguably the most important factors when looking for summer accommodation, a pool and nearby beach.
And while Queensland’s Gold Coast dominated the list, it was The Brunswick in Brunswick Heads on the NSW Far North Coast that took top honours.
- The Brunswick, Brunswick Heads NSW – The perfect coastal hideaway, where pared back simplicity and warm hospitality combine, in one of Australia’s most underrated coastal towns.
- Tessa’s on the Beach Boutique Hotel, Gold Coast QLD – Palm Springs meets the Gold Coast at this recently opened beachfront motel. Grab a paddle board and hit the beach, or just sit back and relax by the magnesium mineral pool.
- The Sails Motel, Brunswick Heads NSW – Located in perhaps the best spot in town, right next to Brunswick’s trendy pizzeria and burger bar. Come for the pool bar, stay for the comfy hotel bed.
- Blue Heron Motel, Gold Coast QLD – Find some of the friendliest service at this family-owned and operated motel. Take advantage of the free bike hire, BBQ facilities, a spacious outdoor pool and make yourself at home.
- Noosa Heads Motel, Sunshine Coast QLD – An affordable and relaxing stay well connected to all of Noosa’s best spots.
- Chalet Motel, Brunswick Heads NSW – Rounding out the list of top motels in Brunswick Heads, the Chalet Motel is the only dog friendly hotel or motel in Brunswick Heads. Pack the car, your furry friend and hit the road.
- Loea Boutique Hotel, Sunshine Coast QLD – With its magnesium pool, food truck doubling as the reception and stylish neutral furnishings, there’s no doubt this is one of the best places to stay on the Sunny Coast.
- The Beach Rooms, Nambucca Heads NSW – With one of the best motel views in Australia, it’s easy to see why The Beach Rooms is a favourite along the NSW Far North Coast. A great pick for those wanting to sit back and relax with the whole family.
- Surfside Motel, Yeppoon QLD – This laidback boho retreat is the perfect base for a relaxing stay in Yeppoon. Not only are you steps from the beach and nearby eateries, but the lagoon is also a very short stroll away.
- Motel Molly, Mollymook NSW – One of Australia’s newest motels, sure to make waves on the NSW South Coast. Think Moroccan inspired décor and an Instagram friendly colour palette.
Read more about Motel Molly in AccomNews HERE
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