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The ultimate guide to luxury accommodation in Brisbane

There’s no such thing as run-of-the-mill when it comes to luxury accommodation in Brisbane.

Boasting uber-chic interiors and glittering rooftop swimming pools, Brisbane’s luxury accommodation scene is diverse, daring and beyond delicious.

I’ve combed the city to the suburbs to create a list of the best stays, where, really, no choice will steer you away from unadulterated R&R.

In short

If you only choose one spot for luxury accommodation in Brisbane, make it The Calile. Arguably the finest inner-city hotel in the county, the five-star superstar boasts unparalleled design, world-class dining and impeccable service.

1. The Calile Hotel

the pool at The Calile Hotel, Brisbane
The stylish pool is the epicentre of The Calile.

A subtropical oasis in the thick of Brisbane city? Welcome to The Calile Hotel, a $100-million urban resort nestled within Fortitude Valley’s retail haven James Street. A destination dripping in international accolades, the magnificent rooftop pool is my favourite hang and the epicentre of this luxury accommodation. It’s where the bustle disappears and sky-gazing from plush cabanas is king. Leave the pool, if you must, to satisfy hunger from breakfast to dinner at either The Lobby Bar, or two of the best Brisbane restaurants found right on-site: Hellenika and Sushi Room. Prices start from about $684 per night and there’s on-site parking for $40 per day.

Address: 48 James St, Fortitude Valley

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2. InterContinental Brisbane

the suite interior at InterContinental Brisbane
Step into Australia’s only hotel designed by renowned architect Harry Seidler.

Fancy yourself a design nut? You’re probably all over the InterContinental Brisbane, which opened in June 2025 in the former Hilton Brisbane space and stands as Australia’s only hotel designed by renowned architect Harry Seidler. One foot inside the high-drama lobby proves its knockout aesthetic value as curved finishes flow with grace – and then there’s the 319 rooms and suites. Offering walk-in showers, the plushest of bedding, sprawling views, turndown services, bathrobes, and (often) access to Club InterContinental for complimentary breakfast and evening canapes with drinks, it’s about as comfortable as hotel life gets. Additionally, there’s a rooftop pool and on-site parking. Prices start from about $320 per night.

Address: 190 Elizabeth St, Brisbane

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3. The Westin

the Westin Renewal Suite Lounge Room, Brisbane
The wellness-focused The Westin offers a relaxing retreat in the heart of the city.

Swim-up pool bar? Don’t mind if I do. When The Westin Brisbane opened its doors, it delivered on its promise to provide a relaxing retreat in the heart of the city. Pool bar aside, the luxury accommodation in Brisbane’s trademark focus is wellness, evident with Australia’s only Heavenly Spa by Westin: a day spa with five treatment rooms, a steam room and blissful relaxation pods. Add the fully equipped Westin Workout Fitness Studio and delicious culinary options for yet another dream overnight pick. Prices start from about $540 per night and valet parking is available for a fee.

Address: 111 Mary St, Brisbane

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4. The Star Grand

It wouldn’t be a round-up of luxury digs without a sprinkle of Star-dust, right? The Star Grand, which opened in August 2024, is the jewel in the entertainment giant’s Brisbane crown, offering gigantic suites with five-star fit outs (think marble, jewel hues and subtle touches of gold) and amenities, plus access to the Isoletto Pool Club which expanded over from the Gold Coast in April 2025 to illuminate level 7 through an infinity pool and those trademark sunken pool lounges. Prices start from about $326 per night and on-site parking costs $45 per night.

Address: 33 William St, Brisbane

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5. W Brisbane

a suite with city views at W Brisbane
Soak up the city from your luxe suite. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Perched on the edge of the river at the bottom of Ann Street, W Brisbane’s flamboyant rooms are a treat for the senses. With monikers like ‘Wow’ and ‘Spectacular,’ you can imagine the bold patterns and quirky inscriptions (plus the awesome in-room bars with cocktail shakers) I spy when I enter. When I wasn’t relaxing by the lap pool, I was peering across the city from the adjacent WET Deck bar or dining in style at The Lex, a New York-inspired grill with its own Brisbane River views. Prices start from about $640 per night and there’s secure underground parking for a fee.

Address: 81 North Quay, Brisbane

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6. Hotel X

the rooftop pool at Hotel X, Brisbane
Hotel X has one of the most glamorous rooftop pools in town. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Hotel X is the place to book for easy access to Fortitude Valley’s nightlife (and The Calile’s booked up, let’s be honest) and the wining and dining mecca that is Howard Smith Wharves. But location isn’t the only thing that impresses at this luxury accommodation in Brisbane — they’ve also got one of the most glamorous rooftop pools in town, an incredible French restaurant, and the rooms are uber stylish to boot. Prices start from about $293 per night and there’s free parking for one vehicle.

Address: 458 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley

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7. Spicers Balfour Hotel

the bed at Spicers Balfour Hotel, Brisbane
Spicers Balfour is more luxe inner-city retreat than regular hotel. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

If you favour a personal touch, Spicers Balfour Hotel is the spot for you. Tucked away in a quiet street in New Farm, and encompassing a sweet Queenslander cottage and a 1940s Art Deco apartment block, the digs are more luxe inner-city estate than regular hotel. Carefully curated antique furniture and jewel-tone velvet chairs are paired with sumptuous bedding, rain showers and Bose speakers in each room. But the real luxury comes from feeling like you’ve been welcomed into a friend’s (expertly decorated) home. Gourmet breakfast, in-room Nespresso machines, sunset canapes on the rooftop, wi-fi and parking are all included. Prices start from about $451 per night.

Address: 37 Balfour St, New Farm

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8. Alex Perry Hotel and Apartments

sunset views at the rooftop lounge of Alex Perry Hotel and Apartments, Brisbane
The sky-high rooftop lounge is a great location for sunset watching. (Image: Alex Perry Hotel and Apartments)

When a fashion designer is behind the aesthetic, one would hope style would prevail. In the case of Alex Perry, his first foray into hotels secures him a model tick of approval. A GHD hairdryer and straightener sit within mirrored bathroom cabinets, while a clothes steamer gets you red-carpet ready – after a stint in the rooftop pool, of course. The apartments are spacious and inviting, decorated with lashings of pewter and charcoal. From studio-style rooms to executive apartments, this is self-contained living at its most fashionable. Prices start from about $209 per night and parking can be booked in advance for a fee.

Address: 959 Ann St, Fortitude Valley

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9. Emporium Hotel

a woman relaxing in a tub at Emporium Hotel South Bank, Brisbane
Unwind in style. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Flamboyant in all the right places: if the Emporium Hotel’s walls could talk, that’s probably what they’d tell you – and they’d have stories to tell from almost two decades of seeing Fortitude Valley evolve. The independent designer abode away from home is all Ferrari-red and flamboyant chandeliers, with the lobby bar serving up cocktails, as does a sleek rooftop pool bar overlooking the city. Prices start from about $477 per night and valet parking is available for a fee.

Address: 267 Grey St, South Brisbane

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10. The Inchcolm

a woman looking out the window in her luxe suite at The Inchcolm, Brisbane
The Inchcolm is in the heart of the city. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Manhattan meets Brisbane is the best way to describe The Inchcolm. A glorious 1880s Art Deco building, the hotel has modernised its bones while paying respect to some extraordinary original features. Each room is entirely unique, making it one of my standout choices when I want something out-of-the-box when exploring the city. Its location is also outstanding, within walking distance to the City Botanic Gardens and South Bank. Prices start from about $333 per night and there’s a nearby car park guests can access for free.

Address: 73 Wickham Tce, Spring Hill

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11. FV Brisbane by Peppers

the pool at FV Brisbane by Peppers
Enjoy a tipple at the heated skyline pool (Image: FV Brisbane by Peppers)

For another slice of New York City on our own east coast, FV Brisbane by Peppers is seriously noteworthy. Inspired by New York’s iconic triangular-shaped Flatiron Building, the hotel features international flair throughout, from the heated U-shaped pool, complete with city views, to the private cinema, fully equipped gym and private spa lounges available to hire. Prices start from about $356 per night and there’s valet parking available for a fee.

Address: 191 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley

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12. Crystalbrook Vincent

a couple relaxing in the pool under the Story Bridge at Crystalbrook Vincent, Brisbane
Relax right under the Story Bridge. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Crystalbrook Vincent sits directly under the Story Bridge within strolling distance of the bars and restaurants of Howard Smith Wharves. Formerly The Fantauzzo, the art-inspired hotel is completely single-use plastic-free, has waste-free bathrooms and showcases items made using recycled material throughout the Brisbane hotel. Plus, the views of the river and the CBD are unmissable from the extremely swish Fiume rooftop bar and swimming pool.

Address: 5 Boundary St, Brisbane

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Discover the best family accommodation in Brisbane

Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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Embrace that Sunday feeling at Hamilton Island‘s newest resort

This new, family-friendly Hamilton Island resort embraces life in the slow lane.

White sand beaches, gentle waves and getting on ‘island time’ have always made Hamilton Island the first spot that comes to mind when thinking of Queensland’s Whitsundays. Always a place to recharge and relax, modern wellness travel here means so much more than a spa treatment or green juice. And a new kind of tropical island stay has now arrived on Hamilton Island.

pool at The Sundays Hamilton Island
Learn to slow down and rejuvinate. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

The Sundays reimagines laid-back luxury, combining boutique, beachfront accommodation with an encouragement to slow down and appreciate life’s simple pleasures so every day feels like Sunday.

Laid-back luxury

The Sundays is nestled into the picturesque gardens on the northern end of Catseye Beach. Despite a feeling of being away from it all, the resort is a conveniently short walk from Hamilton Island’s main resort centre and restaurants, so guests can have the best of both worlds.

This new boutique stay is all about savouring the now. From complimentary sunrise yoga to moonlight movies for kids and a daily sundae ritual by the beachside pool, it makes a compelling case for doing less, better.

Even the architecture is designed to harmonise with the surrounding tropical landscape, pairing soft curves with a grounded coastal style that shows off the panoramic Coral Sea views and adds to the hotel’s calm aesthetic.

Plus, with direct flights to Hamilton Island from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane in under two and a half hours, as well as complimentary hotel transfers from the airport or marina, getting here is as easy as the vacation itself.

balcony view from room at The Sundays
Enjoy fantastic views from your balcony or terrace. (Image: Sharyn Cairns)

Perfectly designed rooms with amazing views

Every small detail has been considered in the creation of the 59 guest rooms and suites, from in-room amenities by LEIF to walls adorned with custom artworks by First Nations andHungarian artist Tiarna Herczeg. There’s even a signature in-room scent by The Raconteur.

Designed by Hamilton Island’s own designer, Carrie Williams, the result is relaxed Australian style using natural textures and soft hues to lull guests into a mellow state. This soothing palette runs throughout the resort, from its sun lounges to the shaded cabanas.

Every room and suite has been built with a balcony or terrace, perfectly framing postcard-perfect views of the surrounding reef and lush greenery.

inside a room at The Sundays
Stylish rooms feature natural, soothing tones. (Image: Sharyn Cairns)

Excellent activities and amenities

Each day has been planned with a relaxed structure, so guests can get involved in as much or as little as they wish.

Greet each day with morning yoga, pilates and island walks. Recharge with daily (and deliciously complimentary) sundaes by the pool. Wind down with moonlight movies twice a week and take advantage of family-focused features.

Guests have complimentary access to a range of water sports – from stand-up paddle boards to catamarans – so they can get their blood pumping before relaxing by the resort pool.

Or take a few extra steps to set up for a day on the sand without any crowds at the exclusive, guest-only beach. Settle in with a poolside aperitif for a front-row view of the stunning Catseye Bay.

aerial shot of The Sundays pool and catseye beach
Find picturesque Catseye Beach on your doorstep. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

Delectable dining

What is rejuvenation if not a hearty choice of fresh, delectable dishes? That’s what guests will discover at The Sundays’s onsite restaurant, Catseye Pool Club .

Open all day for hotel guests and lunch and dinner for island diners, this relaxed yet elevated menu was created by acclaimed culinary duo, Josh and Julie Niland. It celebrates that community feeling of mealtimes while championing seasonal Australian produce.

“The vision behind [Catseye Pool Club] reflects so much of what I value – bringing people together to create memories in beautiful surroundings,” explains Josh.

table spread including a lobster dish from Catseye Pool Club, The Sundays
Enjoy classic Aussie meals with a twist at Catseye Pool Club. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

Based on elevated versions of classic Aussie family dinners, expect refined simplicity. Think roasted Sun Farms Sommerlad chicken with sides like chicken fat roast potatoes, gravy and tomato and grilled bread salad, or barbecued line-caught Bowen coral trout with garlic saltbush and Warrigal greens.

A day spent by the pool can be complemented by a dedicated poolside menu, featuring wood-fired souvas. Don’t want to leave the room? Kick back and soak in the views with tasty treats delivered straight to your door, whether you’re after a full breakfast or late night snack.

view from catseye pool club at The Sundays hamilton island
Enjoy dinner and a view. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

Exploring the island

While daily life at The Sundays is very much about the art of staying still, guests who seek more can explore the island with ease.

Take a day trip to the striking Whitehaven Beach, or see the iconic Heart Reef from above on a helicopter tour. Pop over to Hamilton Island’s championship golf course for a hit, or explore over 12 kilometres of the island’s stunning nature and wildlife. Later, slow the pace back down with a visit to Spa wumurdaylin .

Looking for more tasty treats? Visit one of the island’s restaurants – there are more than 20 to choose from.

Hikers on passage peak hike on hamilton island
Take on the beautiful hikes of Hamilton Island. (Image: Nick Leary)

Book your stay at The Sundays through hamiltonisland.com.au.