Revealed: Byron Bay's Most Stunning Luxury Accommodation

Amid the lush hills and laid-back beaches of Byron Bay, a trove of thoughtful boutique luxury accommodations beckons the discerning traveller.

The storied surf breaks, pastel sunsets and pristine waterfalls of Byron Bay and its verdant hinterland, on Bundjalung Country, have long attracted seekers, travellers and iconoclasts. But as the region continues to evolve into a world-class destination, the run-down backpackers are giving way to eclectic boutique luxury accommodations and private estates that emphasise wellness, sustainability, design and local food. Read on to explore our picks for Byron Bay’s most thoughtful and distinctive luxury accommodations.

1. Lo Scoglio

You might be in Byron, but this private villa will transport you straight to Italy. Taking its cues from neo-classical mansions that sit by the sea in Sicily, Lo Scoglio is easily one of the region’s most luxurious accommodation offerings.

Located in Coopers Shoot, this vast Italian-style farmhouse is set on a breathtaking two-acre private estate with a luxurious swimming pool, five bedrooms and six bathrooms. Immaculately designed in earthy tones, Tigmi Trading furniture and 18th-century Italian artwork, and crisp linen, this high-end holiday rental has been crafted for design-savvy travellers.

Onsite you’ll also find a chef’s kitchen swathed in Italian marble, an Ilve oven, and a butler’s pantry. Enjoy produce from the vegetable garden or take advantage of the concierge service which can source you everything you need to cook up a feast. For those wanting to minimise any work done, a personalised chef can also be arranged.

Lo Scoglio, Byron Bay — The property boasts Sicilian elegance.

Address: 451 Coopers Shoot Road, Coopers Shoot NSW

2. The Atlantic

Byron’s original boutique hotel has undergone a stunning renovation after being devastated by the region’s 2022 floods. Owner Kimberly Amos, a designer and creative who raised her three boys onsite, collaborated with local artists and makers to elevate her property (which now welcomes children 14+).

A bedroom at The Atlantic in Byron Bay — One of several charming private rooms available. (Image: Alicia Taylor Photography)

The result is just as free-spirited — and essential — as ever, catering to urban solo travellers, writers in need of a retreat, couples on holiday and Amos’s cadre of well-connected international friends. The unique layout features three cottages with multiple private rooms and showstopping communal kitchens, where guests can cook their own farmer’s market breakfasts and live like Byron locals.

Communal kitchen at The Atlantic in Byron Bay — The communal kitchen within The Atlantic. (Image: Alicia Taylor Photography)

Amos’s incredible eye is omnipresent in an impeccably curated IRL and online shop (many of the books were written by former guests), a brand-new magnesium pool and art objects she made herself from fishermen’s buoys.

Aerial view of pool at The Atlantic in Byron Bay — The Atlantic recently underwent an extensive renovation. (Image: Alicia Taylor Photography)

The hotel’s timber pathways wind through lush tropical vegetation and back up to a nature reserve, making it easy to forget you’re actually in the centre of town. Grab one of the hotel’s McTavish longboards and stroll to the beach just 200 metres away, then come back to sip cocktails by the pool. The idea, says Amos, is to “come up and not rent a whole house but still feel like you’re at home."

Address: 13 Marvell Street, Byron Bay NSW

3. Hotel Marvell

The hottest new rooftop in town is located atop the scenic and sprawling Hotel Marvell, which bills itself as Byron’s first five-star accommodation.

With its sleek suites, bougie onsite restaurant, rooftop pool and unparalleled views of the coastline, Hotel Marvell is the place to stay in Byron Bay.

Positioned just off the main drag, the hotel has upped the ante (and sophistication quotient) on Byron nightlife, with alluringly moody and consistently lively vibes.

The pool on Hotel Marvell's rooftop in Byron Bay — The rooftop of Hotel Marvell is Byron’s hottest new hangout. (Image: David Chatfield)

Its imposingly Brutalist exterior, designed by local architect Harley Graham, is softened by earthy pink tiles and unruly vines spilling whimsically from concrete balconies. The tastefully minimalist rooms draw in Byron’s famous light and offer Leif toiletries, Bemboka & Eadie bedding and access to a rooftop pool with panoramic views.

Inside the rooms at Hotel Marvell — Rooms are tastefully pared back. (Image: David Chatfield)

Downstairs at Bonito, the showstopping in-house restaurant, Vietnamese chef Minh Le cooks locally sourced seafood and Asian-inspired plant-based cuisine. Outside in a three-story pedestrian laneway enveloped by jungle-like greenery, friends meet for drinks, making the hotel feel like a world in itself.

The onsite restaurant Bonita serves Asian-inspired plant-based cuisine and seafood.

Address: 4 Marvell Street, Byron Bay NSW

4. Swell Hotel

Byron’s unlikeliest recent luxury upgrade occurred right in the middle of town, where an eyesore motel on the traffic circle connecting Byron’s CBD to Belongil Beach and the Industrial Estate metamorphised into a sultry adults-only hotel with lush, textured interiors.

Communal lounge area at The Swell in Byron Bay — Lush design details feature throughout the property. (Image: (Image: Andy Macpherson)

The Swell is the brainchild of California transplants Andrew Maltin and DayNa Decker, who paired their earthy, retro West Coast aesthetic with design objects made by local artisans. With the help of local designer Nyree MacKenzie, they created 16 individually-appointed rooms that feel like sumptuous cocoons for relaxation and intimacy, just steps from Main Beach.

The hotel’s wellness offerings include a state-of-the-art cedar sauna and cold plunge pool, not to mention healthy elixirs served poolside.

A room inside The Swell in Byron Bay — The Swell features 16 adults-only rooms. (Image: Andy Macpherson)

Address: 11 Butler Street, Byron Bay NSW

5. Sun Ranch

Few Byron luxury accommodations have attracted such instant international acclaim as the Sun Ranch, a one-of-a-kind destination property with impeccable old-West, seventies-inflected California ranch vibes set on 55 prime hinterland acres.

Bedroom interior at The Sun Ranch — Seventies-inflected California ranch vibes at Sun Ranch. (Image: Anson Smart)

Available for individual bookings, events and buyouts, this imaginative property attracts creative types and foodies to its Cowboy Bar, Whiskey Lounge saloon and Lair, which the hotel bills as a “sexy as hell sunken lounge area" built around a sculptural fireplace.

The outdoor bar at The Sun Ranch — The Lair is a vibrant sunken lounge located within The Rambler Long House on the property. (Image: Anson Smart)

Pool suites open directly onto a stone pool, while six off-grid barns accommodate families and dogs in rustic timber interiors souped up with luxe French linen. All guests receive hot muffins on their doorstep each morning, as well as a full ranch breakfast. The result is Byron’s most unforgettable weekend experience.

The pool at The Sun Ranch in Byron Bay — Book a pool suite for direct access from your room. (Image: Anson Smart)

Address: 17 Byron Creek Road, Coopers Shoot NSW

6. Basq House

Set just off Byron’s bustling retail thoroughfare, the 32-room Basq House offers walkability to Byron’s best shops and most exciting restaurants, plus a soothing sanctuary in which you can retreat from the chaos.

Close up of seating area around the Pool Deck — The Pool Deck at Basq Hotel. (Image: Elise Hassey)

Serene, monochromatic rooms feature king beds, high ceilings, Mr. Smith toiletries and juliette or full balconies. Some overlook the hotel’s private courtyard pool, where guests can relax in cabanas or lounge on sunbeds while enjoying the self-service bar.

Interior of Pool Studio room — The 32-room Basq Hotel is in the heart of Byron. (Image: Elise Hassey)

The hotel’s cosy, intimate vibe extends to its guests-only common spaces, which include a library, a lobby bar and a rooftop perfect for yoga, meditation, or watching the sunset with a cocktail.

The Library communal space at Basq Hotel in Byron Bay — Guests make themselves at home in the Library with fully stocked bookshelves, cosy fireplace and a bar. (Image: Elise Hassey)

Address: 4 Fletcher Lane, Byron Bay NSW

7. Copperstone

Unfolding over 48 acres just outside the achingly charming Byron hinterland town of Bangalow, Copperstone is the piece-de-resistance of Tom and Emma Lane, founders of The Farm, Byron’s iconic agriculture-meets-foodie destination. Their growing collection of Range Estates pairs thoughtful European design with expansive Australian acreage and a commitment to sustainability and localisation for a private and personalised luxury experience.

Copperstone in Bangalow, NSW — Copperstone sprawls across a stunning 48 acres. (Image: Sean Fennessy)

Copperstone’s old-world, Tuscan-inspired design features rustic tones and textures, encompassing a five-bedroom homestead, state-of-the-art kitchen, pool house (with gymnasium, infrared sauna and ice bath), games room, stables, tennis court and walled garden. Even better, it’s all set against a breathtaking vista of paddocks, walking trails, outdoor entertaining areas and a private beach on a small lake.

The Range’s extensive concierge services include babysitting, day-trip planning and customised meals, wine tastings, and/or cooking classes created by a private chef. The result is the pinnacle of conscious, forward-thinking Byron luxury.

Address: 165 Lismore Road, Bangalow NSW

8. Raes on Wategos

Possibly Byron’s most exclusive hideaway, the Mediterranean-inspired Raes is enviably positioned on Wategos Beach, just under Byron’s iconic lighthouse. Built in the 60s as a posh, eclectic home, it maintains the intimacy of your fancy aunt’s beachside European villa — where her fabulous friends sip Aperols and eat oysters at sunset (at the Cellar Bar downstairs) while stylish longboarders catch cruisey waves in the break just beyond the lawn.

the living room interior at Raes On Wategos — Stay close to nature at Raes On Wategos. (Image: Madeleine Johnson/Sean Fennessy)

With five spacious suites, an intimate spa, highly photogenic pool and two expansive penthouses bedecked with marble and multiple balconies, Raes is a paean to old-world European luxury and a place to celebrate milestones, or just treat yourself.

Rooms at Raes On Wategos — Inside the luxe rooms at Raes on Wategos. (Image: Madeleine Johnson/Sean Fennessy)

Address: 6-8 Marine Parade, Byron Bay NSW

9. Soma

Immortalized in 2021 by the Nicole Kidman series Nine Perfect Strangers, Byron’s most famous retreat space doubles as a luxury accommodation for groups or large families.

Bedroom interior at Soma — Nicole Kidman series *Nine Perfect Strangers* put Soma in the spotlight. (Image: Romella Pereira)

Soma offers 10 king bedrooms with en suites and rainforest showers, organic toiletries produced in partnership with cult local skincare brand Mukti, a geodesic dome for morning yoga and a freshwater infinity pool overlooking 22 acres.

rustic chairs with cushions at Soma, Byron Bay — There are plenty of sitting areas for a family or group getaway. (Image: Romello Pereira)

Address: 221 Kennedys Lane, Ewingsdale NSW

10. The Sunseeker

Byron’s obvious choice for hip families and longer stays, the Sunseeker is a renovated 80s motel just outside town, with a communal vibe and cheerfully retro design aesthetic.

Inside the bedrooms at Sunseeker — Find Sunseeker, a renovated eighties motel just outside the CBD.

Owners Jess and Dave Frid worked with local artists and community members to imagine a space full of bright colours, varied textures, tropical gardens and cheeky, thoughtful touches (a tiki bar beside the pool, an in-ground trampoline). The result feels less like a hotel and more like a happy, stylish commune that you’ll never want to leave.

Pool and table with food on it at Sunseeker — Sunseeker is Byron’s only truly family-friendly luxury accommodation.

The Sunseeker is one of Byron’s only true family-friendly luxury accommodations, with rooms cleverly configured for kids. Six freestanding bungalows feature fully-stocked kitchens with Smeg fridges, breakfast windows, children’s bunk nooks and outdoor gardens with covered bathtubs.

a bungalow-type stay at The Sunseeker, Byron Bay — Stay in one of six freestanding bungalows.

The hotel even partners with local food purveyor Bay Grocer to stock guests’ fridges with curated hampers before they arrive, if they choose. Meaning you can cook up dinner on your private Weber barbecue while the kids wheel around on complimentary scooters and climb the timber playground. In the evening, retire with friends old and new to the communal firepit for a drink.

Lounge area of Sunseeker — Sink into the lounge area of the Sunseeker.

Address: 100 Bangalow Road, Byron Bay NSW

11. Halcyon House

Halcyon House has become a popular weekend destination for travellers who want a luxury beachfront experience outside the bustle of Byron.

Pool at Halycon House — Laze poolside at Halycon House. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just forty minutes up the coast in the sleepy surf hamlet of Cabarita in the Tweed, the hotel’s little-Miami-meets-Palm-Beach design sensibility, white and blue colour palette, elegant spa, and vibey, stylish pool attract couples and girls-getaway groups alike.

paintings on the walls at Halcyon House, Byron Bay — The walls are adorned with eclectic artworks. (Image: Destination NSW)

There is no end to the thoughtful touches here, including complimentary bikes for morning beach rides, Mercedes SUVs for hire and private beach picnics catered by Paper Daisy, the hotel’s acclaimed in-house restaurant.

Bikes for use at Halycon House. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 21 Cypress Crescent, Cabarita Beach NSW

12. Blackbird Byron

Just 30 minutes from Byron in the hinterland, near the beloved hippie enclave of Mullumbimby and tucked into the side of Mount Koonyum, you’ll find an old banana plantation that offers peace, privacy and ocean views for days. You’ll also find Blackbird, a romantic and secluded luxury accommodation that is fully immersed in nature.

Close up of pool reflection at Blackbird — Laze by the pool in rustic-chic style at Blackbird. (Image: Property Shot Photography)

Named after the Beatles song and in homage to native black cockatoos, Blackbird was envisioned by James Hudson, a Sydney hospitality veteran who opened the property in 2018.

Aerial view of Blackbird near Byron Bay — Blackbird is near the beloved hippie enclave of Mullumbimby. (Image: Property Shot Photography)

Its three large industrial-chic pavilions incorporate reclaimed materials, many found onsite, for a look that’s original and sustainable. The suites offer binoculars for birdwatching, Egyptian cotton linens and a full breakfast, while local chefs are available to prepare dinner by night.

the exterior of environmentally sustainable pavilions made of reclaimed timber at Blackbird Byron, Byron Bay — The former banana plantation is now a luxe hideaway. (Image: Property Shot Photography)

Address: 210 Frasers Road, Mullumbimby Creek NSW

13. The Bower

Located walking distance to Byron’s CBD and just steps from its famed General Store, a sceney Byron breakfast spot, the Bower’s black-and-white interiors and haute beach-shack vibes attract couples seeking accessibility and discreet, understated luxury.

Inside the cottage rooms at The Bower Byron Bay — Expect contemporary luxury at The Bower. (Image: Jessie Prince)

The pool and garden bar provide a quiet, palm-lined oasis for lounging in the sun, while the hotel’s holistic spa offers wellness treatments onsite. Book the Bower Barn, a spacious room with a kitchenette near the back of the property, to enjoy its decadent freestanding bathtub under a clear glass ceiling, allowing you to stargaze while soaking.

bathtub at The Bower Byron Bay — No luxe accommodation is complete without a stunning bathtub to call your own. (Image: Jessie Prince)

Address: 28 Bangalow Road, Byron Bay NSW

Discover the best restaurants in Byron Bay.

Warmer days call for slowing down and relaxing in nature. Discover why The Tweed is the ultimate destination to do just that.

As the end of the year draws near, the need for rest and restoration grows ever more prominent. For many, that means heading into nature – and there’s plenty of science to back up the benefits of doing so. It quite literally makes us happier as it reduces stress hormones, lowers our blood pressure and more. And what better place to lean into this feel-good effect than during summer in The Tweed (in the Northern Rivers region of NSW)? Blending sparkling beaches, riverside towns and hinterland villages, this area has nature covered, while also offering top activities and dining options.

And of course, pack your SPF. We Are Feel Good Inc’s Ultra-Light Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 is a lightweight and fast-absorbing formula that keeps your skin hydrated and shielded, thanks to nourishing Coconut Oil and Vitamin E. But it’s also helping preserve the natural beauty around you on your Tweed vacation, thanks to 30 per cent ocean waste packaging.

Discover eight experiences that make The Tweed the perfect place for summer.

1. Underwater worlds

two people swimming after turtle on the tweed — Get a chance to swim with the locals.

There’s something about the ocean that calls to us as humans, and what’s below the surface is even more magical.

Green, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles (not to mention an abundance of other marine life) all use the protected waters around Cook Island, near Fingal Head, as their foraging ground, making it the perfect place to dive and snorkel to spot these adorable creatures.

Join Cooly Eco Adventures on a guided snorkelling tour that combines unforgettable turtle encounters with an inspiring look into marine conservation.

2. Farm-to-table dining

table spread at Potager restaurant — Treat your taste buds at Potager. (Image: Cara Sophie)

Respecting the land and nature also means appreciating its abundance of food. From farm-to-table cafes and boutique breweries to river cruises and restaurants championing local produce, dining around The Tweed often means engaging with the best local producers.

The award-winning Potager Restaurant , part of The Hinterland Collection , is the perfect example; beginning life as a kitchen garden, the passion to champion local producers is woven into every dish. Vegetables, fruit and herbs are picked from the garden or sourced from other local producers, the seafood comes from the Northern Rivers, and meat is sourced from ethical local producers. Even the cocktail list features local distillers.

Extend your stay with a night (or several) at boutique on-site accommodation, Potager House . This French-inspired country four-bedroom retreat boasts stunning views of the surrounding hills and nearby ocean, as well as a large pool, outdoor entertaining area and infrared sauna.

3. Water wellness

Waterguru Mindfulness in the Mangroves summer on the tweed — Find mindfulness in mangroves. (Image: Matt Johnson)

You’ll find mindfulness while floating around the mangroves of Kingscliff’s Cudgen Creek at any time, but Watersports Guru offers an immersive experience to help guests do so with more intent. Join a 90-minute guided session on a stand-up paddleboard to reconnect with nature and relax through breathwork, gentle movement and sensory awareness.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, Watersports Guru also offer Kayak fishing adventures or join a Sea Turtle Odyssey experience.

4. Restorative seaside stays

woman relaxing in spa at Halcyon Wellness, halcyon house — Unwind at Halcyon Wellness.

The Tweed encourages locals and visitors alike to slow down. To really indulge, a seaside stay is a must. Halcyon House has understood the assignment, blending a wellness philosophy centred on balance and self-discovery with luxurious surrounds. Stay in one of 22 rooms and suites (each individually designed by eclectic interior designer Anna Spiro) right on the beachfront. Book restorative treatments at the onsite spa, Halcyon Wellness, relax by the pool, dine at the hatted Paper Daisy restaurant and just let The Tweed work its magic.

While Blue Water Motel offers a relaxed coastal escape, just steps from Kingscliff Beach. Settle in stylish rooms, recently restyled by Jason Grant, nodding to the cool of Kingscliff with a fun retro vibe. Hire a bike from reception to explore the surrounding area.

5. Tasty drops

The owners at Husk Farm Distillery aren’t just about creating high-quality rum: they’re also farmers themselves. In fact, they create one of the world’s only single estate, farm-to-bottle spirits. Join a Farm to Bottle tour to discover the sustainable ‘full circle’ distilling practices used here, and even get hands-on with your own cane knife to help harvest and juice your own stalk of cane. And, of course, a welcome drink plus complimentary tastings along the way.

6. Rail trail adventures

Exploring the rolling green slopes and historic towns of the 24-kilometre Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is one of the best ways to connect with the region’s lush hinterland and interesting heritage. In this section of the trail, discover the area’s railway history at heritage-listed Murwillumbah Railway Station, and traverse by 18 railway bridges and through two railway tunnels.

Linking vibrant towns and villages with the larger hub of Murwillumbah, this section of the trail is covered in asphalt or compacted gravel, making it accessible for all ages and abilities, from prams to adaptive bikes.

7. Linger longer

surfer at fingal heads the tweed — Enjoy beachside locations, like Fingal Heads.

Linger longer at one of the seven idyllic beach, river and creekside locations of Tweed Holiday Parks – including at Tweed Heads, Kingscliff Beach, Hastings Point and Pottsville South. All just steps from the water’s edge, they make the ideal base to unwind, or head out for exploration of The Tweed. Choose from luxury waterfront cabins, accessible cabins, surfari tents (yes, they are basically glamping tents) or spacious sites for caravans, motorhomes and campervans or tents.

Find your feel-good summer in The Tweed at visitthetweed.com.au .

A collection of Byron Bay’s most stunning luxury accommodation