Port Stephens: 2 or 3 Nights for Two with Breakfast, Bottle of Wine $199

The Hotel: Ibis Styles Salamander Shores With a waterfront location and range of facilities, the Ibis Styles Salamander Shores is the ideal getaway for couples and families alike. Groupies escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life for a relaxing stay in a choice of two rooms. Some of the rooms offer spectacular views of the sea from the balcony for guests to enjoy with a bottle of wine. Guests can lay by the outdoor swimming pool. Spend your holiday exploring the surrounds at your own pace, with plenty of activities nearby to keep schedules as packed as you like. Organise a tour with the friendly staff, such as whale watching, a dolphin cruise or a thrilling sand dune tour. Head back to your abode for al fresco dining at Shoreline Steakhouse Restaurant. Rest easy on your last evening knowing a late check-out by midday allows the relaxing getaway to end a little later. TripAdvisor: 3 / 5 Room Details Garden View Room Bed size/type: Queen and single bed Maximum occupancy: Two people These rooms are on the lower levels and offer garden views Sea View Room Bed size/type: Queen and single bed Maximum occupancy: Two people These rooms have a balcony with sea views The Area: Port Stephens, NSW Though it is home to famous sights like Australia’s largest shipwreck and the expansive sand dunes from the Mad Max movie, Port Stephens is still one of New South Wales’ best-kept secrets. The small coastal region boasts photo-worthy scenery thanks to its sandy landscape and pristine beaches, which offer many ideal vantage points for spotting migrating humpback whales during the winter and spring months. A family-friendly destination like no other, the Port Stephens region is awash with cute cafés, water and land-based activities and a dose of fresh seaside air. Located on the northern side of the port is Hawks Nest, a slow-paced village flanked by expansive lakes, rivers, bushland and East Coast shoreline. Hit up the region’s famous sand dunes for hours of fun, whether it is a hike, 4WD adventure or simply sliding down the sandy slopes. Then hit the beach, river or lake for myriad water sports or a simple splash around. Plenty of water-based activities are on offer in the area including fishing, diving and surfing, or those who prefer not to get wet can hop aboard a whale-watching cruise during May to November to see the creatures up close. For something altogether unique, eager eyes pay a visit to Stockton Beach where the remains of a rusting bulk carrier ship sit beached in shallow waters. Adult Groupies take a swing at one of two golf courses nearby or make the one-hour trip to the Hunter Valley for world-renowned wineries and plentiful fine dining options.