The 8 most delightful short weekend getaways across Australia

Just a zippy 30-minute ferry ride from Fremantle (or 90 minutes from the Perth CBD), Rottnest Island is one of Western Australia's greatest gems. Also known by its local Aboriginal name, Wadjemup, and ‘Rotto’ by locals, it’s an essential addition to any WA weekender itinerary. Out-of-towners may know Rottnest for its friendly population of quokkas, but the island is also home to the most incredible azure blue waters you’ll come across, and nowadays, it has a selection of top-notch eateries and luxe accommodation, as well as camping grounds, cafés and low-key restaurants for the budget-conscious. 

Good for: Families, leisure-lovers, nature-fans and anyone who likes looking at eye-wateringly blue water. 

If you're in Hobart and are medically craving the freshest air in the world, succulent oysters, savvy B and eating handmade cheese in the bush – you're going to need to put Bruny on your weekend list. Located just under two hours from Hobart's CBD, Bruny is the crispest jewel in the Apple Isle's crown. Dance on wild and secluded beaches, go on staggeringly beautiful bushwalks, eat and drink some of the best local food and wine you'll get in your life, and just generally immerse yourself in a place that feels perfectly placed in a simple, faraway time where emails don't exist. You'll probably see a dolphin too – and a whale if you're lucky. 

Good for: People who like their rugged nature with a side of artisan cheese, kids and those looking for a little slice of serenity. 

It's hard to pick where to speed away to for a short weekender from Sydney, but one place that we reckon ticks a huge number of boxes is the Central Coast. First of all, it's under an hour's drive from the Sydney CBD, meaning you can hit the road straight after work and get home on Sunday arvo with time to spare (there's also a nifty train that'll get you there quick too). Second, it's got incredible pristine beaches, easy access to tonnes of incredible wineries and rolling green hills, an epic array of world-class restaurants and cafés, and hikes galore. Basically, its a crowd pleaser. 

Good for: Everyone. Truly, everyone. 

The Grampians region is perhaps best known as one of Victoria's best nature escapes, particularly for its collection of grand mountains and high sandstone peaks that seemingly split the horizon in two. A three-hour drive from Melbourne's CBD, this dazzling national park also houses one of the biggest collections of Indigenous rock art sites in southeastern Australia, is home to the epic Pinnacle walk and becomes specked by gorgeous wildflowers during springtime. It's also home to some of Victoria's best wineries and eateries, which means you can be outdoorsy, but stay well-fed at the same time. 

Good for: Adrenaline junkies, waterfall-seekers and nature lovers who also like microbreweries and cheese. 

With its convenient proximity to Brisbane (just an hour's ferry ride away), Moreton Island is an ideal getaway for unwinding in both luxury and nature over a weekend. Whether you opt to camp behind the sandy dunes, rent one of the island's numerous holiday houses or stay at Tangalooma Island Resort, you'll have plenty of opportunities to indulge in swimming, snorkelling and for 4WD owners, cruising the island's beach highways. The hand-feeding wild dolphin experience is a must, as is donning your finest snorkel and exploring the breathtaking Tangalooma Wrecks.

Bonus: there are no requirements to wear a stinger suit in Southeast Queensland because there are no Box jellyfish or Irukandji.

Good for:  Fans of paradise and tropical islands, snorkellers, resort-goers' and families. 

Wine, wine and more wine. Adelaide has a lot of incredible stuff to offer, but there's no denying that wine is sort of the one we like the most. Located just 45 minutes from Adelaide's CBD, McLaren Vale is kind of like Tuscany, but without the international airfare ticket bit getting involved. Scoring high for proximity and accessibility, McLaren Vale is also stunningly beautiful, lush and studded with numerous gorgeous vineyards and wineries that you can hop between, all weekend long. 

Good for: Couples, adult mates and those who love efficiency, short drives and very, very good wine. 

Litchfield National Park is a lush and verdant corner of the Northern Territory that often gets forgotten. Located just 60 minutes from Darwin, this national park is overflowing with thundering waterfalls, crystal pools and vivid greenery that has to be seen to be believed. In a part of the world where pretty much all bodies of water are to be heavily avoided at all costs (read: saltwater crocs), Litchfield is a special oasis for swimmers and weary travellers alike. Whether you like hiking, swimming or (if you're feeling bougie) chartering a private helicopter to a waterhole on top of a remote waterfall, there's something pretty life-changing in Litchfield for everyone. 

Good for: Adventure junkies, anyone who wants to swim safely in the croc-infested NT, and getting off grid.

Located just one and a half hours away from Canberra (and just two hours from Sydney, so quite perfect if you want to meet a mate from a different state halfway), the NSW Southern Highlands are one of our favourite weekend getaways, ever. Cosy in the winter and dreamy in warmer months, the Southern Highlands are peppered with stunning coastal views, nostalgic antique shops, and a vast array of very memorable pies and country pubs. Tuck yourself away in a country B&B, do little walks and breathe in the fresh, cold air of the high country. This one's pretty perfect. 

Good for: Couples, friends, families and purveyors of cosy times, good pies and classic Aussie country hits.