Scamander BeachResort

On Tasmania's east coast, a little south of St Helens, this independent resort sits right above the beach where the Scamander River meets the sea. Ocean- and river-view rooms open onto individual balconies over the water, while garden rooms give onto a fenced play area for children. Downstairs, the Sand Bar and Beach Bistro cook with Tasmanian produce, and there's a bar, a gaming room and half-court tennis. Steps lead straight down to the sand and the river mouth.