hero media

The best accommodation in Warrnambool

While holiday parks abound in Warrnambool, there are also plenty of options for those seeking a little more comfort and style.

There’s a lot to love about the Great Ocean Road’s largest city: the stunning coastline, seaside trails, rich history, gourmet food and the fact there’s a stay for every kind of traveller, from budget road trippers to luxury-seeking vacationers. Whether you’re looking for peaceful retreats, beachside adventures or boutique digs, we’ve selected the best accommodation in Warrnambool for your next trip along Victoria’s spectacular south-west coast.

In Short

If you only stay at one accommodation in Warrnambool, make it Gallery Apartments. It’s a luxurious self-contained getaway with an outdoor pool that places you within walking distance to Warrnambool’s cafes and restaurants.

Hotels

Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs

Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs from above
Sweeping coastal vistas abound.

Looking for a dreamy wellness getaway where time slows right down? Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs will have you forgetting your email inbox even exists. Located near the foreshore, the hotel puts wellness front and centre, with an indoor bathhouse, day spa, and adjoining hot springs sanctuary (just make sure to book in advance, as hotel guests aren’t guaranteed entry).

The bright, modern rooms range from studios and spa suites to two- and three-bedroom apartments; some feature a sea view, and there are three dedicated all-abilities rooms. An on-site restaurant, room service, and free parking round out the amenities on offer. Our tip? Check out the packages on their website before you book, as there are often seasonal offers combining accommodation, dining and wellness.

Address: 1 Worm Bay Rd, Warrnambool VIC 3280 

Hotel Warrnambool

Hotel Warrnambool room interior
The boutique pub stay retains an old-world charm. (Credit: Hotel Warrnambool)

If you’re after a boutique pub stay in the heart of town, check into Hotel Warrnambool. The modern rooms retain an old-world charm, with many looking out of the arched latticed windows of the pub’s façade. Enjoy a meal at the on-site bistro serving up Mediterranean-style dishes, or relax in the beer garden with a pint. Just take note when booking that some rooms share a bathroom.

Address: 185 Koroit Street, Warrnambool VIC 3280

Quest Warrnambool

the interior of Quest Warrnambool
Quest Warrnambool is a trusted stay.

This modern, no-frills accommodation has everything you need for a comfortable stay: studios with kitchenettes, apartments with fully equipped kitchens plus open plan living/dining, a swimming pool, BBQ area, conference facilities and parking.

Guests are consistently impressed with the cleanliness and customer service, plus you’ll enjoy the convenience of being close to the town’s cafes, restaurants and shops. If you have any mobility issues, let them know in advance, as there’s no lift to the upper floors.

Address: 15-19 Liebig St, Warrnambool VIC 3280

Lady Bay Resort

Lady Bay Resort exterior view, Warrnambool
The waterfront resort treats guests to picturesque views.

Lady Bay Resort ticks all the boxes: self-contained apartments, studio rooms, restaurant, spa, swimming pool and gymnasium. It’s located near the foreshore, right by the Deep Blue Hot Springs, so you can just pop on over for a soak; you’ll need to drive into town, but luckily there’s plenty of parking here. Check out their couples package before booking – it includes two nights in a luxury spa apartment, cheese platter and sparkling, and passes to Flagstaff Hill.

Address: 2 Pertobe Rd, Warrnambool VIC 3280 

Eight Spence

Whilst technically a motel, we’re sneaking 8 Spence in for its surprisingly chic coastal rooms and affordability. Recently refurbished, the family-owned and operated accommodation features queen, king and family-friendly two-bedroom rooms, all including microwaves, kettles, toasters, mini fridges, and smart TVs. There’s a guest laundry, BBQ area and free parking, making your stay that much more convenient. It’s on the edge of town, meaning longer walks or drives to your destination, but with prices starting at $140 a night, it’s worth it.

Address: 8 Spence St, Warrnambool VIC 3280

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

AI Prompt

Gallery Apartments

Gallery Apartments feels more like you’ve stepped into someone’s stylish, comfy home rather than a holiday apartment. The centrally located one- and two-bedroom apartments feature plush decor, fully equipped kitchens, living and dining areas, a smart TV and private courtyard. Relax by the outdoor pool and stroll to one of the many cafes and restaurants nearby. Booking a romantic getaway? Couples will love the deluxe spa suite, with its two-person spa bath in a full marble bathroom.

There’s also a studio apartment available (with on-street parking only), and if you have mobility issues avoid the double-storey apartments.

Address: 206 Lava St, Warrnambool

Airbnbs and holiday homes

Apartment 35

This luxurious one-bedroom retreat oozes Hampton vibes with its chic light interiors, outdoor patio and freestanding bathtub (which seals the deal for us!). A kitchen and BBQ means you can linger at the apartment, but if you decide to head out, you’ll be just a short stroll from Warrnambool’s cafes, bars and restaurants. There’s a car spot for you on the driveway, and the washer and dryer are handy for trips to the beach (which is only a few minutes away).

Address: 35 Banyan Street, Warrnambool VIC 3280 

Honey Flower House

Honey Flower House, Warrnambool
Sleep in elegance in a European-style holiday home.

The aptly-named Honey Flower House is decorated with warm, bright hues, and a skylight fills the bathroom with natural light, creating a cheerful holiday vibe. With two bedrooms, a full kitchen and European-style laundry, it’s great for couples and young families (host Monique has thoughtfully included children’s tableware, books and toys). It’s centrally located opposite the hospital, just a block away from the CBD.

Address: 256A Koroit Street, Warrnambool VIC 3280

Luxury coastal home in CBD

Luxury coastal home in CBD, Warrnambool
Retreat into this charming coastal home.

This two-bedroom home has been beautifully renovated with modern amenities, yet it retains charming touches such as brick-lined fireplaces and decorative wall panelling. It’s single-level with no stairs, so suitable for those with mobility issues. With two bathrooms (one including a freestanding tub), a full kitchen, washing machine, and outdoor BBQ, couples, friends or families with older children will be comfortable here. We suggest packing marshmallows, because you’ll love the firepit under fairy lights.

Address: Provided after booking

Serendipity

the interior of Serendipity Airbnb in Warrnambool
Floor-to-ceiling windows make way for panoramic ocean views.

Located across the Hopkins River bridge in Warrnambool, this four-bedroom architectural home does justice to the term ‘coastal haven’. All the essentials are covered in this child-friendly, pet-friendly stay (which features a fully enclosed backyard, children’s dinnerware, books and a travel crib, and allows for wheelchair accessibility). The standouts are the floor-to-ceiling windows, panoramic ocean views, chef’s kitchen with butler’s pantry and stunning courtyard. Three bathrooms and the sheer spaciousness of the place make managing groups a breeze.

Address: Riverview Terrace 30, Warrnambool VIC 3280

Camping and caravan parks

NRMA Warrnambool Riverside Holiday Park

mini golf at NRMA Warrnambool Riverside Holiday Park
Try your hand at mini golf.

Fun and relaxation go hand in hand at this tranquil holiday park positioned along the Hopkins River. Keep cool in the indoor or outdoor pools, try your hand at tennis or mini golf, let the kids burn energy on the playground and water slide, or simply cast a line into the river from the jetty.

Accommodation ranges from powered and ensuite sites to self-contained studios, family cabins and three-bedroom villas (many with private verandahs). Pets are welcome in the campsite and select cabins, and the essentials – amenities block, camp kitchen and BBQ area, plus kiosk – are all covered.

Address: 125 Jubilee Park Rd, Warrnambool 

Weekly travel news, experiences
insider tips, offers, and more.

Surfside Holiday Park

Surfside Holiday Park, Warrnambool
The beachside accommodation is just a few steps away from Surfside Beach.

Nestled between Warrnambool’s foreshore, Surfside Beach and the popular Lake Pertobe Adventure playground, Surfside Holiday Park really is about location, location, location. The family-friendly park provides both unpowered and powered sites with the usual amenities, plus a range of fully contained cabins with options just 50 metres from the beach.

The Shipwreck Bay Holiday Park is also part of Surfside, located just 500 metres down the road.

Address: 120 Pertobe Rd, Warrnambool

Discovery Parks – Warrnambool

Also located off Pertobe Road, not far from the hot springs and Lake Pertobe, Discovery Parks ticks all the boxes for families looking for a fun stay by the coast. With pedal karts, a playground, activity room, swimming pool and on-site activities, you’ll be hard-pressed to get the kids to leave (did we mention it’s also dog friendly?).

Powered sites include ensuite options, while self-contained cabins sleep 1-6 guests (including an accessible option with ramp access). A camp kitchen, kiosk, BBQs, and laundry round out the on-site amenities.

Address: 25 Pertobe Rd, Warrnambool

BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks – Warrnambool

the indoor pool at BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks – Warrnambool
Enjoy a refreshing swim in the indoor pool.

This centrally located holiday park is only ten minutes from the town centre. While the beach is a little further away, the park makes up for it with an indoor swimming pool, tennis court, and pirate-ship themed playground.

Pitch a tent or set up the caravan on a tree-hemmed powered or ensuite site, or book into one of the one-, two- or three-bedroom cabins. Pets are welcome (apart from select cabins), and make sure to check their website for deals before you book.

Address: 33 Lava St, Warrnambool

Warrnambool Holiday Village

The smaller, recently redeveloped Warrnambool Holiday Village offers a range of accommodation close to the town’s centre, from one-bedroom deluxe cabins to two-bedroom villas, complete with modern fittings and fixtures.

Camper and caravans will have their choice of unpowered or powered sites, with access to a camp kitchen and BBQ area (dogs are allowed in the campsite too, just not the cabins). Kids will adore the sandy playground area, featuring a new jumping pillow.

Address: 81 Henna St, Warrnambool

Warrnambool Holiday Park and Motel

Warrnambool Holiday Park and Motel game room, Warrnambool
Warrnambool Holiday Park and Motel features an indoor game room for the whole family.

Just a short stroll to the Hopkins River – and less than a minute’s drive to a boat launch – this friendly holiday park with free boat storage is the perfect base for those coming down to fish for the weekend.

Not into fishing? No problem. From a solar-heated swimming pool to a playground, jumping pillow and games room, there’s plenty more to entertain. All types of holiday goers are catered for here: choose from powered grass sites, ensuite sites, or studio cabins all the way through to family apartments. Communal facilities include electric BBQs, camp kitchen, and coin-operated laundry.

Address: 83 Simpson St, Warrnambool

Jade Raykovski
Jade Raykovski is a freelance travel writer from Melbourne, Australia whose wanderlust began from immersing herself in the fantasy worlds of her favourite books as a kid. She started off her career as a graphic designer, before making the switch to copywriter, and now – in what you could say is the role she was always destined for – travel writer. Along with Australian Traveller, her bylines include National Geographic, BBC Travel, Escape and NZ Herald. And while she loves writing about home, she'll never pass up the chance to sip a spritz in Italy.
View profile and articles
hero media

6 nature-based experiences to prove the Bendigo region comes alive in autumn

    Dilvin Yasa Dilvin Yasa
    A change is as good as a holiday, but never more so than in the Bendigo region when it’s the seasons putting in the transformative work.

    With its gold rush history, opulent architecture and booming food and wine industry, there’s no denying that the Bendigo region is beautiful to visit at any time of year. Visit between March and May, however, and you’ll find the Bendigo in autumn really comes alive. Foliage erupts in a canvas of golden colours and the cooling air makes immersing yourself in nature all the more enticing.

    Need a few ideas to get you started? We’re so glad you asked.

    1. Tackle the bike trails

    Pink Cliffs Reserve
    Pink Cliffs Reserve in Heathcote can be seen on the O’Keefe Rail Trail. (Image: Visit Victoria/Emily Godfrey)

    Welcome to a region that punches well above its weight when it comes to cycling. This is where hammies are tested on multi-day rides, and first-timers fall in love with the sport on short (and ridiculously pretty) trails.

    The 49-kilometre O’Keefe Rail Trail is the headline act, following the old railway line between Bendigo and Heathcote. Cross the Campaspe River at Axedale Recreation Reserve and pause at the Platypus Compass Sculpture and the First Nations mural marking the connection between Djaara and Taungurung Country, with Axedale acting as the perfect halfway stop to refuel at a pub or cafe.

    Pedal a little further Heathcote’s Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve to be rewarded with views of sculpted pink clay cliffs and narrow gorges that are perfect for a photo stop. Searching for a different type of reward? The Heatchote Wine Region is full of inviting cellar doors.

    There are plenty of other options in the Bendigo region, from the 210-kilometre Goldfields Track, to the Bendigo Creek Trail and Back Creek Trail – both ideal for riders of all abilities. The 3.7 kilometre Little Lake Boort loop is a great family-friendly option.

    Prefer something more adventurous? Spring Gully Mountain Bike Park has been keeping BMX Bandits’ dreams alive for years.

    2. Enjoy the crunch of autumn leaves

    two people having a picnic at Valley of Liquidambers heathcote
    Pack a picnic and head to the Valley of Liquidambers.

    Blinding clusters of crimson, burnt orange and brilliant yellow; here, autumn leaves are crisp confetti of fire and gold. See the magic up close with a slew of parks seemingly dedicated to showcasing Mother Nature’s colour wheel, especially from mid April to early June.

    Pack a picnic for an afternoon at Valley of Liquidambers in Heathcote, where Liquidamber trees transform into a wonderworld of magical foliage. Don’t miss taking a leisurely stroll across the swinging bridge back towards the main street.

    Rosalind Park might be celebrated for its annual tulip display come springtime, but it’s hard to compete with the theatre of autumn. Here, many trees date back to the 1800s, and there’s no better place for a romantic stroll than along the elms, oak and Queensland Kauri that dominate this park.

    Head straight to Lake Weeroona, where an ornamental lake begs for a leisurely lap around its edges, either on foot, or with pedal power.

    3. Immerse yourself in First Nations culture

    woman exploring Kooyoora State Park with guides
    Explore Kooyoora State Park on a cultural tour.

    Its ‘Mountain of Light’ (Guyura in the Dja Dja Wurrung language) title is impressive, but so too is Kooyoora State Park’s rugged landscape of granite outcrops, rocky ridgelines and wide-open skies.

    While there’s nothing to suggest you couldn’t explore Kooyoora’s walking tracks on your own, the best way to understand the 40,000 years of history behind its natural wonders is to book a 2.5-hour Kooyoora Cultural Tour with Dumawul Tours.

    Led by Djaara cultural guides, expect a traditional Welcome to Country smoking ceremony, before engaging storytelling rewinds the clock to reveal the deep cultural significance of the land, its flora, fauna and its continuing connection to Country.

    Keen to stay a little longer? Consider staying overnight at the campground and committing to the park’s wealth of walking trails, such as the 5.3-kilometre hike from the camping ground to the lookout on the Long Rock Walking Track.

    4. Splash in the region’s waterways

    Serpentine Creek Canoe Trail
    Paddle through Serpentine Creek Canoe Trail. (Image: Visit Vic)

    Water babies rejoice: the Bendigo region offers a wealth of waterways to explore.

    Flowing 392-kilometres from the Great Dividing Range to the Murray River, the best way to enjoy Loddon River is with a stop at Bridgewater. Here you can swim in the natural infinity pool or tackle the all-abilities, five-kilometre Serpentine Creek Canoe Trail before browsing the cute stores in town. Hungry? Grab a bite at Bridgewater Hotel.

    Lake Eppalock is popular for water activities, but don’t miss a visit to Little Lake Boort and Big Lake Boort. Birders, in particular, will love the former, thanks to the large variety of bird species that nest in the boardwalk area surrounding the lake.

    Meanwhile, Big Lake Boort is celebrated for its significant Indigenous history and over 400 scarred trees, and offers an opportunity to spot birds and go canoing.

    Meanwhile, watersports and recreational activities at Crusoe Reservoir, located on the outskirts of Bendigo, are the order of the day. Take a walk to the picnic spots of No. 7 Park nearby, and maybe even camp there for the night.

    5. View epic lookouts

    customers at Peregrine Ridge
    Spend time at Peregrine Ridge.

    Sometimes a holiday requires a phenomenal spot on which to perch as you survey your temporary kingdom below. The Bendigo region, happily, doesn’t do anything by halves.

    Located in Heathcote-Graytown National Park, Viewing Rock Lookout – a rocky outcrop offering spectacular views over Heathcote and surrounds – remains a popular choice. Take the hour-long Viewing Rock Circuit Walk and try your hand at gold prospecting nearby.

    Prefer the romance of sunrise or sunset? Pyramid Hill, a stunning granite hill rising 187-metres above sea level, is the place to be (preferably with a coffee and a bagel)

    Over in Terrick Terrick National Park, a walk to the summit delivers a full 360-degree panorama of woodlands, farms and open-sky plains. Pack lunch and perhaps a tent as picnic tables and camping are available.

    Carve out time for Peregrine Ridge, a vineyard situated at the eastern side of Mt Camel Range with an elevation ranging from 250-290 metres. Be rewarded with delicious wine and a cellar door which offers floor-to-ceiling views.

    6. Enjoy the Bendigo region’s parks and gardens

    Rosalind Park in bendigo
    Stroll through Bendigo’s best gardens. (Image: Visit Vic)

    Rosalind Park, located right in the centre of town, is considered Bendigo’s backyard and rightly so. Home to the Bendigo Easter Festival, it’s just as popular year-round for its sixty acres of rolling lawns, towering elms, fernery and winding paths not to mention the playground which has plenty of little fans of its own. A short drive away, Bendigo Botanic Gardens established in 1857 offers a more tranquil space for deep-level nature immersion.

    Those who favour something a little more formal, cottage-style Canterbury Park Gardens famous for its dahlias in autumn delivers.  Stroll through its meticulously maintained ornamental gardens before checking out Lake Tom Thumb and Lake Neangar nearby.

    Time to start planning your adventure to the Bendigo Region, visit bendigoregion.com.au.