14 Most Romantic Places To Stay In Byron Bay

Byron Bay is as romantic as it is beautiful, making it the perfect place to celebrate with your significant other.

Now you’ve picked Byron Bay as your destination and mentally packed your itinerary full of the best things to do in Byron, the only question that remains is, where to stay?

Whether it’s a special occasion or just an excuse to amp up the TLC, these romantic accommodation options will leave you in the mood for love.

1. Blackbird luxury escape

hinterland views from the bedroom at Blackbird luxury escape, Byron Bay — Bed down at this serene haven. (Image: Property Shot Photography)

Best for: Sustainable seclusion

The Byron accommodation offering got a whole lot more beautiful when it welcomed Blackbird – an environmentally sustainable, luxury assortment of self-contained pavilions and facilities. What started as the brainchild of James and Stella Hudson quickly blossomed into a secluded oasis, framed by acres of the famous green rainforest and hinterland. The couple spend the day rustling up breakfasts and pizza on-demand, offering local recommendations, sorting in-room massages or on-site yoga.

Wake to spectacular views of Cape Byron and the Pacific Ocean, and spend the day in your own little world – or if you fancy, 30 minutes away in the buzzing town centre.

2. The Atlantic

an outdoor pool at The Atlantic, Byron Bay — Expect total bliss at this boutique hotel. (Image: The Atlantic)

Best for: Sun-drenched stays

For those who have been to Byron before, many of these accommodations require very little introduction. The Atlantic is one of them.

This ultra-trendy boutique hotel puts the bay at your fingertips, with four unique cottages all lovingly restored with meticulous attention to detail.

Soak up the sun on the lawn, read under a palm tree and enjoy balmy evenings by the fire – romance comes naturally at this coastal home away from home.

3. Shambhala

the Sarita retreat at Shambhala, Byron Bay — A three-bedroom retreat perched on the treetop with rainforest views. (Image: Shambhala)

 Best for: Barefoot beachfront escapes

Hidden in the exclusive enclave of Belongil Beach is Byron’s best-kept accommodation secret. The four unique cottages of Shambhala are set within the rainforest, yet remain one of the few properties positioned right on the sand.

Upon arrival, guests are greeted by magnificent temple doors and statues, leading to both the accommodation and a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces, all with absolute beachfront access.

4. The Bower

a bedroom with bathtub at The Bower, Byron Bay — The suites are spacious and feature a freestanding bath. (Image: The Bower)

Best for: Reigniting passion

Say hello to Australian beach style, reinvented.

Similar to the famous Halcyon House in Cabarita, The Bower reimagines the iconic surf motel, combining the barefoot ambience of Byron Bay with contemporary luxury. And we do mean luxury…

Standing on almost half a hectare, this New York-inspired property offers accommodation in an array of formats; including barns, cottages, hotel rooms and suites. There’s also an award-winning circular swimming pool, framed by low-hanging palm trees and that famous Byron foliage. A stay here will reignite your faith in romance – if not with each other, then with the design decisions of this incredible property.

5. Elements of Byron

Best for: Relaxing poolside, all day

Glistening pool, utter relaxation and some of the best serenity Australia has to offer, you’d be hard-pressed to find a reason not to head to Elements of Byron. Six years in the making, the property opened in 2016 after a $100 million beachfront build. Now, it’s heralded for its design, eco-values and luxury appeal.

Spend your days surrounded by bures, settees and hanging lounges by the lagoon pool. It’s the jewel in Elements’ crown. And when you’re all baked out, book a session at the popular Osprey Spa – in advance if possible.

7. Raes on Wategos

the beach house interior at Raes on Wategos, Byron Bay — Each suite boasts understated coastal elegance. (Image: Madeleine Johnson/Sean Fennessy)

Best for: Celebration luxe

Housed on the most coveted real estate in Byron Bay, Raes on Wategos is a boutique retreat that embodies the very definition of opulence.

This perfectly quiet pocket of Byron Bay, with its sparkling turquoise waters and pretty beach houses tucked into the hills, is more beautiful than words can explain. From the moment you arrive at this white 1960s villa on the edge of the idyllic Wategos Beach, you can tell you are somewhere special. Accommodation options include a villa, two penthouses and four luxury suites, enjoyed after a night of modern Australian at the Raes Dining Room, and sunset drinks at the Cellar Bar.

6. Byron Cove Beach House

Best for: Beach-adjacent romance

Bed and breakfasts are the backbones of any romantic escape – aren’t they?

Our pick is the Byron Cove Beach House , the ultimate place to indulge, luxuriate and cocoon. Retreat to one of four studio-styled rooms, all fitted with luxurious furnishings, large beds and an ensuite. Then, finish your stay with an extensive selection of delicious breakfast options. Situated right next to the bustling town centre, it’s only a minute’s walk through the nature track and over the sand dunes to Belongil Beach. Perfection.

8. Cape Byron Retreat

outdoor huts at Cape Byron Retreat — Cape Byron Retreat offers a soothing respite. (Image: Supplied)

Best for: Hideaway vibes

Sit back, relax and enjoy the hinterland serenity at this adults-only retreat.

The beauty of Cape Byron is both its scale and locale. At three acres, the tranquil heaven offers expansive views of Wollumbin (Mount Warning), and all the fresh air your heart could desire. It feels a world away, and yet it’s only 7 minutes’ drive from the heart of town (and its beaches). Select from one of eight rooms, ranging from deluxe king villas to cottage studios and spa rooms – just to turn up the dial on the romance. Some rooms also have kitchenette options, which is an added bonus for those who splurged on accommodation.

No matter which room you choose, Cape Byron Retreat will deliver.

9. Beach Suites

sunlounger and umbrella by the pool at Beach Suites, Byron Bay — Relax on a cosy sun lounge by the pool. (Image: Beach Suites)

Best for: Partners with pets

Overlooking the iconic Main Beach, Beach Suites offers the best in upscale stylish boutique studios and large, airy apartments. If you want somewhere to park and call home both short and long-term, indulge in a setting that is individually catered with all the modern conveniences. There are flat-screen TVs, free wireless Internet, Foxtel, intercom access and secure undercover parking in an unrivalled, central location. They are also the only pet-friendly luxury option in the area, which is perfect for couples who travel with companions.

10. The Brooklet

the interior of The Brooklet, Byron Bay — Retreat into architectural villas with lush garden views. (Image: Jess Kearney)

Best for: Luxe with a side of wellness

Nestled in the hinterland behind Byron, The Brooklet is a beautifully curated luxury escape to revive all romance. There are one- two- and three-bedroom architectural villas set on lush and undulating gardens, but you’ll only need one bedroom for intimate interludes, where you can either cosy up by your indoor fireplace or lounge by the property’s 25-metre pool. You can also enjoy some wellness as a couple with the hot tub, ice bath and sauna or book in for a massage in the stylish treatment room.

11. Bask & Stow

white-painted exterior with outdoor chairs at Bask & Stow — Bespoke suites exude coastal charm. (Image: Bask & Stow)

Best for: Tropical vibes

Five king-size bespoke suites all white-washed and infused with Byron style are set just a short stroll from dazzling Clarkes Beach. Here you can let the salt dry on your skin as you return to your soothingly styled, air-conditioned digs or refresh in the beckoning plunge pool. Elegant and thoughtfully curated, Bask & Stow will restore your lovers’ glow.

12. 99 Acres

a luxe retreat at 99 Acres with its own deck — Bask in unparalleled comfort at 99 Acres. (Image: Supplied)

Best for: Courtship in the countryside

This ridge-top retreat in Bangalow spoils guests with sweeping 360-degree hinterland vistas. There’s a five-room guesthouse or four stand-alone villas, each with its own deck, to settle into for some couples’ downtime. Take the eight-minute wander into town, revive in the 99 Acres pool or just watch the sun disappear in a pantomime of golden hues from your deck.

13. Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat

romantic stays in Byron-Bay — This tranquil rainforest sanctuary is the perfect place to cocoon away.

Best for: Asking the big question

Right on the NSW and Queensland border, about one hour from Byron, this tranquil rainforest sanctuary is the perfect place to cocoon away with your better half. Whether you opt to snuggle up in a creek-side spa cabin soundtracked by melodic water, a canopy or glass terrace bungalow, or one of the luxury lodges with private plunge pools, you’ll be in a lushly hemmed heaven where the pressures of the outside world can’t intrude. Head to the bar lounge and wine cellar for a cosy drink before enjoying dinner delivered to your room. And when romance really is the only requirement, you can take the matrimonial plunge in style with one of three proposal packages to choose from.

14. Ingenia Holiday Parks Glamping

Best for: Love on a shoestring
Love doesn’t always require a huge investment. Lock in for nature-edged romance with glamping in a stylish belle tent at Byron’s Ingenia Holiday Park . There are no half-deflated blow-up mattresses and soggy canvas here, but rather a plush, king-size bed, air-conditioning and private deck. Festooned with fairy lights and nestled amid the 28-acre beachfront park, it’s ideal for budget liaisons.

15. Swell Hotel

Best for: Retro vibes and relaxation

Swell Hotel is all sumptuous 70s-style interiors that foster connection and relaxation. While it’s located in the middle of town, this adults-only stay has 16 uniquely designed suites which means you won’t be fighting for pool space or yearning for peace and quiet. This is a wellness-drive retreat, so expect a state-of-the-art cedar sauna, magnesium mineral swimming pool healthy elixirs served poolside), infrared sauna and an ice bath.

Originally written by Eliza Sholly with updates by Lara Picone

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle ). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe .

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca , which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie , the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach . Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen , which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse .

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach , where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne , Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s .

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

15 of the most romantic places to stay in Byron Bay