While still relatively undiscovered by southerners, international backpackers have long known of its charm through word of mouth and come here to learn to ride on the gentle surfing waves, access the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef and see migrating Humpback Whales, pods of dolphins, the resident Dugong colony and sea turtles.

THE SPACE

Set in 9000 square-metres of lush landscaped gardens, a sparkling lagoon pool and tropical island forms the heart of the property, which feels reminiscent of the chic tropical resorts you'd find in Noosa or Palm Cove. At night the pool and surrounds are lit by lantern light, while an eye-catching blue Kombi, branded with the hotel logo sits parked out front. Onsite is the excellent French-inspired Plantation Bar and Restaurant, with its retro palm wallpaper feature wall and bi-fold windows looking out over the pool. Chef Ross Howell heads up Plantation, while his affable wife Helen Johnson is in charge of food and beverage. There's also a day spa using Li'tya products. Lagoons offers the only full service, 4.5 star self-contained holiday accommodation in the sleepy township. It adjuncts the Sir Joseph Banks Conservation Park and, while you can't actually see it, a secluded surf beach is a short stroll (or barefoot jog for surfers) away.

THE ROOM

The spacious airy studios and (one and two bedroom) apartments are decked out in smart tropical decor with a white backdrop and bright turquoise and yellow hues. My one-bedroom spa apartment features a king size bed, fully equipped kitchenette, laundry, spacious lounge area and Biology toiletries. An outdoor terrace with spa bath overlooks the lagoon pool (others have courtyard gardens) and is a terrific spot to soak up some sunshine and the resort's casual vibe. In cooler months the apartments with spa baths are the pick but, in summer, be sure to opt for a swim out apartment, with direct access to the fantastic lagoon pool.

THE FOOD

The onsite Plantation Restaurant led by Ross Howell and wife Helen Johnson, who formerly ran eateries in Brisbane including Pippin Took, Grand Orbit and Dish Bar and Bistro, is so good you'll be reluctant to go elsewhere. The menu is seasonally driven and dishes like the corned lamb rump with fondant potatoes, pea puree and sugar snaps reveal Ross' classic French training. Don't miss Ross' thin apple tart with vanilla bean ice cream and calvados anglaise for dessert.

STEPPING OUT

Catch the town's famed sunset from the Tree Bar at the 1770 Beach Hotel – the first store to open in the town, in 1973, join a fun LARC tour to the Lighthouse at Bustard Head and experience sand boarding or join Mel Thomson from Vitality Fitness for yoga on the beach. The best coffee can be found at the super friendly Getaway Garden Cafe at Agnes Water.

HIGHLIGHT

Chef Ross Howell's fabulous French-inspired Plantation Restaurant.

LOWLIGHT

The unheated pool means it's way too cold to take a dip in winter.

THE VERDICT

Lagoons is a stylish addition to Seventeen Seventy. The staff are super friendly and attentive, the food is excellent and it's a terrific base for exploring the Southern Great Barrier Reef and experiencing some of the best long board waves north of Byron. I'd return in a heartbeat.

ESSENTIALS

Studio rooms at Lagoons 1770 Resort and Spa start at $230 a night, including breakfast. Phone (07) 4902 1600, see lagoons1770.com.au.