Best short holiday breaks for Aussies: NSW Coast, Margaret River, Samoa, Cook Islands, Gold Coast, New Zealand

YOU'VE still got time! Here are the top quick getaways for Aussies, from island paradises to cheap beach breaks, just in time for the long weekend.

It's all about the vineyards and wine in the Margaret River region. Picture: Richard...

THE long weekend is just around the corner and the extra day off work gives Aussies the chance to escape for just a little bit longer.

If you haven't planned ahead, don't worry. There's still time to check out these short Aussie breaks, compiled by Listopedia from Expedia.

And if you don't manage to get away this time, you can at least start planning your next getaway.

South Coast, NSW

The South Coast of NSW holds many charms; from the beauty of the blow holes at Kiama to the reputation of Berry's baked goods, the towns south of Sydney have much to offer. Once you're past Wollongong, high-rise buildings are a rarity and the pace of life slows down. Whale watching in Jervis Bay is a yearly pilgrimage for many, as is a week on a house boat in Batemans Bay. Don't forget a seafood lunch from Rick Stein at Bannisters, in Mollymook. If you're heading further south, detour via Bodalla for milkshakes made with milk straight from the local dairy at the Bodalla Dairy Shed.

Kiama Little Blowhole. Picture: Christopher Medder

North Coast, NSW

The North Coast of NSW has long been the favourite summer spot of Sydneysiders looking to escape the rat race. Yes, you'll still find traffic and trendy hot spots in Byron Bay, but the smaller seaside towns such as Lennox Head offer a slice of old school summer. Head to the milk bar for fish and chips, stop by a cafe and pick up your vegan burger, or just grab the surf board for a day at the beach.

Scenic and quiet Lennox Head. Picture: Jessica Kirsch

Margaret River, WA

WA's fertile Margaret River region is home to more than 200 wineries, at least one chocolate factory, a hedge maze, caves, beaches and more. There are wine and food festivals, whale watching, art galleries, breweries, and some of the world's best examples of wildflowers. Popular year round, the peak period is September through to December.

It's all about the vineyards and wine in the Margaret River region. Picture: Richard Majlinder

Mount Maunganui, New Zealand

The Kiwi version of the Gold Coast, Mount Maunganui in the Bay of Plenty is a popular spot for sun seekers and holiday makers. The Miss Mount Maunganui Pageant draws big crowds, when the winners are crowned on Main Beach at the end of each year. The beach sits at the base of the dormant Mauao Volcano, whose summit is a popular hiking track for locals (pictured above).

Gold Coast, Qld

Less than 100km south of Brisbane, the Gold Coast has its own high rises but is still a world away from the city. Its most famous suburb is Surfers Paradise and, just as the name suggests, this is the place for sun and surf, as well as theme parks, resorts, restaurants and more. Keep an eye out for international celebrities like the Pitt/Angelina Clan, who spent Christmas in the area, doing their last minute shopping at Target Robina.

The iconic Gold Coast never fails to impress. Picture: Steven Bostock

Queenstown, New Zealand

Calling all adrenalin junkies. Ski, snowboard, bungee jump, sky dive, paraglide, jet boat, canyon and mountain bike your way through, above, around and over this stunning landscape. Summer and winter are very different, but there's plenty for everyone year round. If you don't like living on the edge, soak up your surroundings from the Onsen Hot Pools and stop by Fergburger for a burger that will get your tastebuds racing.

Beautiful and pumping, that's Queenstown for you. Picture: vichie81

Cook Islands

Known as the 'secret of the South Pacific', the Cook Islands are not the closest kept secret, but they're still quiet enough to get you away from the rat race. The 15 islands are just a short flight from New Zealand and with paradise so close to your doorstep, there's no reason not to hop across the pond.

A secret and serene escape. Where? Cook Islands of course. Picture: Chameleons Eye

Samoa

Another great destination in the South Pacific, Samoa has more to offer than its white sandy beaches, although they are well worth a visit. Expect to find friendly people, untouched jungle, dramatic ocean trenches and stunning waterfalls in this tropical paradise.

Samoa is a true tropical haven. Picture: Valery Shanin