This Luxury 80s Motel is the Nostalgia Hit We All Need

The Isla Retro Boutique Motel — Image: @outincanberra

The South Coast of New South Wales has been experiencing something of a tourism revival through the summer months of 2022. And it’s a small wonder why! With some of the most idyllic stretches of coast and a plethora of charming regional towns, the South Coast is a must-see destination, year-round.

Tourism isn’t the only thing being resurrected in these paradisiac southern climes, however. The Isla, a newly opened luxury motel in Batemans Bay, is angling to usher in the 80s retro revival from the heart of the pristine ‘Oyster Coast’. And we’re here for it.

Riding the wave of post-lockdown tourism, this coastal-chic luxury motel is determined to make its mark on the scene with its homely retro design, beachy colour palette and a heavy dose of nostalgia.

Keep scrolling for a closer look at our new favourite coastal destination, and get the hit of nostalgia you need.

What is The Isla?

Outdoor communal area in The Isla — Image: @theislahotel

The Isla is a newly opened and completely glamorous, 80s-inspired luxury motel in the picturesque tourist magnet of Batemans Bay.

This sumptuous, boutique coastal escape speaks to the warm nostalgia of the proverbial childhood beachside holiday.

Marked by its uncomplicated, organic design, warm tones and homely communal spaces, it’s easy to imagine yourself whiling away the sunny hours by the pool at The Isla, good book (or even better negroni) in hand, and laid-back vibes all around.

With only 18 rooms (including three suites) on the property, The Isla is also small enough to maintain its intimate feel, year-round.

Design and Features

Isla interior design — Image: @theislahotel

At a glance, it's easy to see just how much The Isla leans into 80s sentimentality. Vibrant, solid-coloured furnishings, natural wooden features and brushed brass accents all nod to that iconic, flaunting era.

The Isla’s design concept is far from an exercise in raw nostalgia, however, with award-winning Australian architecture group THOSE taking the lead. Blending the slick, simple flair of the 80s with organic design and an uncomplicated layout, The Isla’s design cements it as a leader in luxury and charm.

The Isla 80s Design Outdoors — Image: @theislahotel

Despite the homage that The Isla pays to the cherished past, its features are anything but antiquated.

A contactless check-in service allows guests to unlock and settle into their rooms without so much as picking up a key, making these boutique accommodations feel more like a family holiday home than a hotel.

And best of all, the classic, kooky mini-bar has also been given an upgrade by the savvy proprietors of the Isla.

Since all that poolside sunning can be thirsty work, guests can take full advantage of The Isla Cantina. This stylish series of integrated vending machines offer local artisanal beverages to guests, including oh-so quaffable cocktails by Poor Toms, espresso martinis by St Ali and Dangerous Ales beers.

What to Do

Just as The Isla’s beachy colour palette and sunny design suggest, this boutique motel is the quintessential coastal hideaway. It’s just a stone’s throw from the sparkling beaches of Batehaven, and a short walk through the charming, sleepy neighbourhood to the spectacular lookout of Observation Head.

What’s more, the pristine, green wonders of the region are just a short drive from town, including the stunning Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Garden and Murramarang National Park.

There’s also no shortage of breathtaking beaches and headlands along this stretch of coast, whether the winds call intrepid guests to explore north or south.

With regional tourism enjoying a rebirth after several difficult years, now is the perfect time to head out of the city and into your warm dreams of yesteryear. And what better way to rediscover the wonders of the South Coast than with a healthy hit of nostalgia?

Check out The Isla’s website and Instagram for more info on this roaring retro revival.

Prefer a retro city stay? Check out the groovy, old-school digs at Ovolo South Yarra, Melbourne.

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