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.

From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

Just one hour from Sydney, the Central Coast has long been the perfect seaside getaway. And with its ECO Destination certification with a focus on sustainability, it’s a trip travellers can feel good about, too. Recently, new and exciting openings have turned the Central Coast into a place where incredible natural beauty is still on the table, but so is a vibrant and sophisticated arts, dining and nightlife scene.

Find out what’s new to discover on the Central Coast.

1. Gosford’s glow up

room at voco gosford — Book into voco and experience the best of Gosford.

Long-time Central Coast lovers will hardly recognise Gosford these days. While always boasting gorgeous water views, a range of revamps and new openings have turned it into a busy hub of arts and culture, with an increasingly diverse and vibrant nightlife.

Landmark lifestyle hotel voco Gosford is the perfect home base for a Central Coast getaway. At this IHG hotel overlooking sparkling Brisbane Water, guests can spend sunny days soaking in the rooftop pool (or just sipping a cocktail beside it). When it comes to meals, you can enjoy multiple venues serving up everything from modern Australian fare to fine-dining Japanese.

Venture out to lay eyes on the Central Coast’s first permanent Moving Image Gallery (MIG) . Opened this year inside the Gosford Regional Gallery , the immersive space is a showcase of screen-based and digital art. While at the gallery, wander around the Edogawa Commemorative Garden, a traditional Japanese strolling garden complete with teahouse, koi pond and an ornamental bridge.

Meanwhile, the revamped Gosford Regional Library has even more than books to discover. Now, it’s one of the best in the southern hemisphere – find exhibitions, historical archives and community initiatives for all ages at this perfect family-friendly escape.

2. Newcomers to the dining scene

table full of food at Amarilla restaurant terrigal — Treat yourself to sundowners and snacks at Amarilla.

The Central Coast has long been the perfect destination for gourmands, with everything from casual eats to fine dining elevating the local offerings. And three new destinations have been added to the map.

Amarilla at The Haven in Terrigal is the perfect seaside venue for sundowners, with blissed-out beats providing the soundtrack. Book in for golden hour and choose bites from a Spanish tapas menu made for sharing. Do as the locals do and wash it all down with sangria – the Sunday Sangria Sessions have become a local institution.

Also in Terrigal, Little Miss has brought a premium Mediterranean menu to the waterfront. Try the wagyu tartare with Greek caviar or butter-poached lobster and tomato bisque, paired with inventive cocktails and a handpicked selection of Lebanese wines.

Over in Ettalong, Bar Toto is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks. This award-winning cocktail bar is known for its creative concoctions, along with craft beer, wine and antipasti platters to snack on. The interior sets the mood, with dim lighting and wooden furnishings.

3. New Central Coast experiences

winemaker at Firescreek Botanical Winery — Book an experience at Firescreek Botanical Winery.

It’s entirely possible (and recommended) to spend a Central Coast getaway relaxing on one of its many peaceful and pristine beaches. But for those who crave more, there’s a long list of options to keep you busy.

Pop into the iconic Australian Reptile Park to see the new Weigel Venom Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that’s home to over 200 of the country’s most venomous snakes.

Get out on the water with Sail Central Coast , which offers 20 years of expertise in yacht charters. Book the Sunset Sail & Dine yacht charter for a private afternoon cruising the waterways of Bouddi National Park and Brisbane Water, stopping at Anchor on Hardys for a two-course meal with a cocktail.

For something completely different, Firescreek Botanical Winery is now offering an Aboriginal Storytelling and Wine Tasting Experience. Learn about local cultures, stories and traditions from an Aboriginal Elder, then enjoy a botanical-inspired wine tasting led by a local winemaking expert.

4. Central Coast accommodation

view from a cottage at Noonaweena — Sleep in the hinterland at Noonaweena.

There’s simply too much to experience on the Central Coast to only stay for one day. Turn your trip into a relaxing getaway by the beach.

Allawah , a retreat on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, is accessible only by boat. This secluded two-bedroom cottage is the perfect place to unwind, allowing you to spend lazy days fishing, kayaking, paddling or unwinding with a book on your own private jetty.

In the Kulnura hinterland, Noonaweena features a range of accommodation styles, from a luxe glamping bell tent to cottages and a treetop suite. It’s a leader in green travel, with 10 years of certification from Eco Tourism Australia. Relax in the onsite wellness centre or get active on various courts and in the gym facilities.

To stay by the ocean at Toowoon Bay, book into Kim’s Beachside Resort . This adults-only property offers a luxury escape nestled within a sub-tropical rainforest. Along with 36 private timber bungalows, indulge in massages or reiki treatments at the dedicated spa, or stop by the cocktail bar and à la carte restaurant.

5. Shopping on the Central Coast

Umina’s Centred Ceramics central coast — Try your hand at Umina’s Centred Ceramics’ pottery courses.

For those after unique trinkets, handmade treasures and beautiful homewares, the Central Coast is a haven.

Markets on the Central Coast have a special flavour. Wander the Umina Beach Markets at twilight, where you’ll find small businesses from the local areas, and the Norah Head Ocean View Markets , where you can soak up good food, live music and artisan finds by the beach after sunset. ‘Tis the season for the Christmas twilight edition of the Avoca Beachside Markets, celebrating the season with pop-up bars, tasty treats and plenty of unique gift options from local artists and producers.

Galleria Ettalong has also added to the Central Coast’s recent makers and creators renaissance, wrapping cinemas, a dining precinct and over 40 boutique shops into one area.

Sign up for a pottery course at Umina’s Centred Ceramics , or peruse the shop for a range of one-of-a-kind pottery made on the premises for a special souvenir.

For more eclectic arts and homewares, pop into Blue Bird Collective Co . This marketplace supports over 35 small, local and handmade businesses, artists and creatives. Take the time to check out fashion, jewellery and homewares that won’t be found anywhere else.

Start planning your coastal getaway at lovecentralcoast.com .

A collection of Byron Bay’s most stunning luxury accommodation