If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping to a world where shag carpets, wood paneling, and sun-drenched balconies set the mood, these ‘70s style stays across Australia will transport you there.
Whether it’s a surf-inspired shack, a retro ranch, or a floating time capsule, each of these destinations has been lovingly designed to celebrate the effortless cool of the era. Expect warm earth tones, nostalgic design elements, and the kind of relaxed vibes that make you want to kick back with a classic vinyl spinning in the background.
From coastal hideaways to countryside retreats, here are some of the best ’60s and ‘70s-inspired Slow Stays to check into.
SUNNY SIREN 1966
Freycinet National Park, Tas
Sitting like a Mid Century treehouse above the secluded Parsons Cove, Sunny Siren is the adults-only escape you’ve been dreaming of. Inspired by its own vintage – 1966 – a top-to-toe renovation by its current custodians (who long admired the shack while holidaying nearby) has given it a seriously chic new lease on life. Working with its beautiful bones, designed by architect Frank Stary, the one-bedroom shack has been filled with nostalgic ‘60s and ‘70s-inspired pieces – from the fringed floor lamps to its retro kitchen canisters and bed linen you’ll want to take home with you, it’s as much a feast for the eyes as the show-stopping view across Fisheries Bay.
TANGERINE DREAM
Deep Creek National Park, SA
Just shy of the entrance to the seriously underrated Deep Creek National Park, this lovingly restored ‘70s shack calls to hippies at heart. The interiors of Tangerine Dream are a blend of ‘70s decor and original features (we love the pink bath and vanity!), which feels all the more special when you add in the secluded patch of land it sits on, where kangaroos often pop by. When you’re not enjoying the outdoor tub and fire pit, or nestling into the sofa with your favourite vinyl spinning, head out to discover the hike (or 4WD track) down to Blowhole Beach – you’ll feel as though you have the entire place to yourself.
FLEETWOOD SHACK
Middleton, SA
A sister property to Tangerine Dream, this ‘70s style log cabin sits just steps from the Middleton Beach surf break. Fleetwood Shack fully embraces its coastal setting, blending retro surf culture with laid-back beach living. A well-loved surfboard hangs in the rafters, while Beach Boys records and a framed print of Surfing World magazine set the tone. With a quiver of boards and bikes ready for use, you can spend your days carving through waves or pedalling along the coast. As the sun sets, kick off your sandy shoes, sink into the leather lounge, and let the sound of the ocean take you back to a simpler time.
SUNDOWNER
Yamba, NSW
Designer Jamie Blakey’s latest project, Sundowner, brings the magic of a ‘60s beachside motel into the present. This thoughtfully reimagined apartment block channels the easygoing spirit of vintage surf culture, with a soft pastel palette, breezy open spaces, and nostalgic touches that feel effortlessly cool. Each apartment is a self-contained sanctuary, with sun-drenched balconies, checkerboard tiles, and curated Mid-Century furniture that invites you to slow down. With Yamba’s famous beaches just a short stroll away, days are best spent between the waves and the breezy courtyard, cocktail in hand.
SUN RANCH
Bangalow, NSW
Inspired by ‘70s California ranch houses, Sun Ranch is an entirely unique retreat nestled in the Byron hinterland. Sitting on 22 hectares of rolling hills, this sprawling escape is a love letter to the golden era of road trips and rock ‘n’ roll. The main lodge blends timber, stone, and bold tones, with leather lounges and vintage rugs adding to the ranch-style aesthetic. Days here are meant for long, lazy swims in the magnesium pool, horseback rides through the property, and sunset drinks at the Saloon Bar, where guests gather under festoon lights. It’s an escape designed for dreamers, drifters, and those who live for wide-open spaces.
OH BUOY
Berowra Waters, NSW
Floating on the serene waters of the Hawkesbury, Oh Buoy is a retro houseboat that transports guests straight back to the ‘70s. Originally built in 1964, the vessel has been carefully restored by owners Laurie and Jess, who have infused it with vintage charm—think warm timber paneling, rattan details, and a record player spinning classic tunes. The real magic, however, is outside. With access to a double kayak, paddleboard, and a private motorboat, you can explore the hidden beaches and inlets of Berowra Waters at your own pace. At night, as the boat rocks gently under a canopy of stars, you’ll feel completely untethered from the modern world.
SEA SEA
Crescent Head, NSW
The ‘70s style inspiration couldn’t be clearer at Sea Sea, a boutique surf hotel in Crescent Head by designer George Gorrow and Cisco Tschurtschenthaler, the duo behind The Slow in Bali. Designed to evoke the spirit of an old-school surf clubhouse, this retreat is effortlessly cool, from the earthy terrazzo floors to the timber-panelled interiors. The rooms are minimalist yet warm, filled with curated vintage pieces and textured linens, while communal spaces encourage guests to swap surf stories over long-table dinners. Whether you’re here to ride Crescent Head’s legendary point break or simply soak up the laid-back atmosphere, Sea Sea captures the soul of Australian surf culture like nowhere else.
