15 January 2025
15 mins Read
Immerse yourself in the laidback luxury of Byron Bay accommodation, where options seamlessly blend laid-back vibes with upscale comforts from Airbnbs to romantic stays and the best hotels, allowing you to experience the best of both worlds in one of Australia’s favourite coastal havens.
Whether you’re yearning for an intimate couples’ retreat or a family-friendly getaway with all the comforts of home, Byron will leave you spoiled for choice. We unveil the most captivating stays embodying the unique essence of this enchanting beachside beauty.
If you appreciate the finer things in life, then you’ll love Byron Bay’s abundance of luxury accommodation options. There’s no shortage of sparkling turquoise ocean views, private pools, and multi-million-dollar interiors here.
Price: $$$
This contemporary retreat is nestled in tropical gardens, (Image: Supplied)
Classic beach motel meets contemporary luxury at The Bower, a New York-leaning property set on almost half a hectare but still just a 10-minute stroll to town. The circular, award-winning swimming pool fringed by palm trees and tropical foliage is a highlight, and accommodation options range from the country-inspired barn to contemporary suites and an indulgent cottage that sleeps up to 10 guests.
The space invites you to embrace the relaxed coastal atmosphere while indulging in modern comforts – perfectly illustrating the spirit of modern-day Byron. Rates start at around $250 a night during the quiet season.
Other inclusions: Free wifi, gourmet mini bar, complimentary yoga essentials (by request), and bicycles to ride around town.
Price: $$$$$
Relax in this A Mediterranean-inspired white sanctuary. (Image: Madeleine Johnson/Sean Fennessy)
It doesn’t get much more indulgent than Raes on Wategos – a stunning boutique hotel set on Byron’s most prime real estate and overlooking the impossibly turquoise waters of famous Wategos Beach.
The all-white 1960s villa effortlessly blends relaxation and refinement, and it’s one of those special spaces that feels a little bit magical – like you’ve entered another time or place.
Accommodation options include a villa, penthouses, and luxury suites, all with access to the inviting swimming pool, heavenly day treatments at the day spa, and surfboards if you’re keen to catch a few waves at Wategos.
The on-site restaurant offers indulgent, contemporary Australian cuisine and you can sip sunset drinks at the Cellar Bar. Rae’s truly offers the best of luxury-meets-natural beauty. Rooms start at around $700 a night.
Other inclusions: Complimentary wifi, Apple TV, and daily breakfast.
You’re well and truly spoiled for choice when it comes to finding affordability, romance, comfort, and luxury irbnbs in and around town. There’s also a plethora of farm stays and out-of-town options.
Price: $$$$$
Pacific House Byron Bay is a holiday home that oozes pure indulgence, with luxury and beachfront living merging in perfect harmony. Nestled on Belongil Beach, just off the highway, this stunning holiday rental offers breathtaking views of one of Byron’s most quintessential beaches from floor-to-ceiling windows in every room.
The sophisticated interiors feature dark stone and timber accents, contrasted against bright, colourful artworks and furnishings that create old-school beach shack vibes. There’s an inviting outdoor deck adorned with cosy seating that overlooks terraced lawns – perfect for a gathering of family or friends. The house sleeps up to six guests, and prices start at $3000 a night.
Other inclusions: Free wi-fi, direct beach access, on-call concierge, luxury toiletries, and a gourmet welcome hamper.
Price: $$$
Rustic charm meets contemporary comfort.
Nestled in the heart of Byron where the beat of the ocean and the allure of all the local gems beckon, Friday Hut Airbnb exudes the essence of unfiltered beauty. Think rustic charm meets contemporary comfort with exposed brick walls, an a-frame ceiling, and a stylish internal space with floor-to-ceiling windows that invite the tropical garden and surrounding trees in.
There’s a private courtyard, an outdoor copper bathtub, and a fully self-contained kitchen. Perfect for a couple’s retreat, this sweet sanctuary is ideal for those who want a private space amidst Byron’s untamed spirit. Prices start from $320 a night.
Other inclusions: Free wi-fi, breakfast, and use of produce from the communal garden.
Embrace the spirit of an ocean getaway and let yourself be spoiled. Everything is taken care of at Byron’s most indulgent resorts.
Price: $$$$
Relax by the pool with a drink in hand. (Image: Supplied)
If you like your luxury a little low-key, then it doesn’t get much better than Elements of Byron. It has everything you look for in a beachy chic, indulgent stay – including a stylish restaurant, adults-only swimming pool, day spa (with top-notch treatments), and ocean views. Your villa is beach hut meets modern luxury with everything you need and more, and you can wake up in the morning and enjoy a sunrise yoga class overlooking the ocean. Rates vary depending on the villa and season, but start at around $500 per night.
Other inclusions: Unlimited in-house movies and wifi, food & beverage credit, return solar train ticket to town, and wellness kit and guide on arrival.
Price: $$$
Crystalbrook Byron is an idyllic spot for a nature escape. (Image: Destination NSW)
Tucked away in a quieter corner of town (towards Suffolk Park), Crystalbrook Byron is the ultimate in chilled-out luxury. Surrounded by paths that wind through expansive nature lagoons, at times you’ll almost feel like you’re glamping – until you walk into your super stylish space, decked out with all the mod cons including a fully equipped kitchen so you can sit back and soak up the nature from the comfort of your own room. It is truly one of those places where you could comfortably stay cosied up without ever needing to leave. You can escape the gentle bustle of Byron and stay sweetly within the resort – which offers everything from a mouth-watering nature-immersed restaurant to a day spa, swimming pool, and daily yoga – all just a stone’s throw from the ocean. Standard suites start from $350 a night.
Other inclusions: Free wifi, complimentary daily resort shuttle, bicycles, and a fitness centre.
Price: $$
While a resort in name, Eco Beach Byron Bay has a bit more of a modern motel vibe. Set right in the heart of Byron town, some apartments come fully self-contained, and each room offers a simple, modern, beachy ambience with everything you could need – including a private balcony, kitchen supplies, and access to the pool, spa, and barbecue facilities.
The affordability (for the area), comfort, and central location mean this place books out far in advance, so it’s not for the last-minute traveller. There are minimum stays for different times of the year, and discounts for longer visits, with prices starting at around $250 a night.
Other inclusions: Tea and coffee-making facilities, kitchenette, free wifi and smart TV, and a private balcony or patio.
Is there anything more nostalgic than a motel on the beach? Byron’s hotels and motels are the perfect place to drop off your bags and spend a lazy afternoon by the pool or explore the beaches and shops right on your doorstep.
Price: $$
The Sunseeker offers something special, with a classic style that especially speaks to lovers of travel and art. The place oozes warmth with sunny corners highlighted by creative interiors that make you feel simultaneously at home and far away – in the best possible way.
There are plenty of rooms and bungalows to choose from, with options for a romantic getaway or a family holiday. There’s an inviting pool, on-site takeaway cafe, bar, library, bikes, and boards to borrow, and even a playground for the kids. Prices start at $270 a night.
Other inclusions: Complimentary laundry use, tea and coffee-making facilities, cable TV, and free wifi.
Price: $$$
This tropical resort is a blissful spot to unwind. (Image: Supplied)
Set in the very heart of Byron Bay, just a short stroll from Main Beach and all the local attractions, The Lord Byron is one of the oldest hotels in the region, recently enjoying a revamp that echoes the style of Cabarita’s famed Halcyon House, but still retaining some of its old-school Byron charms.
The hotel has a sparkling swimming pool with an inviting bar, and rooms are chic, colourful, and beachy. The midday checkout, and free bikes and surfboards all invite you to slow down and really soak up the Byron vibes, with staff going the extra mile to make sure you leave your worries behind and enjoy a serene stay.
Choose from a queen room to a three-bedroom apartment. Rates start from around $300 a night, with savings for longer stays.
Other inclusions: In-room Nespresso machine, complimentary bicycles and surfboards, and free wi-fi.
Price: $$$
Soak up the serenity at Swell Hotel. (Image: Jessie Prince)
Close enough to hear the bongo beat from the mainstream, Swell is a surprisingly serene escape. That may be down to the fact this is an adults-only stay that focuses on wellbeing. Make use of the magnesium pool, infra-red sauna and ice bath, or borrow one of the hotel’s Retro 88 surfboards and hit the swell up at Main Beach, just a 5-minute walk away. For more effortless pursuits, chill in the lush garden lounge as you sip and snack on treats from the pool bar. There are three types of king-size rooms to choose from – garden view, poolside and hideaway – or one two-bedroom suite. All are styled with a luxe ’70s aesthetic in soothingly earthy hues.
Other inclusions: Complimentary wifi, surfboard hire and access to the nearby Mahi Health Club during your stay.
Price: $$$
Take a dip in the temperature-controlled magnesium pool. (Image: Supplied)
Slipped into a central Byron back lane, this achingly cool stay is a living Pinterest board for interior style goals. As you enter the calming, white-hued lobby space at Basq House, you’ll be instantly soothed by deftly chosen furnishings and artworks. It’s Byron meets the Mediterranean here with a glittering central courtyard pool drawing attention away from the well-styled surrounds. Take up daily residence in a day bed by its s ide as you sip on cocktails and graze on a few complimentary bar snacks. There’s no onsite restaurant, but you’re a matter of metres away from excellent restaurants and bars. When the beach beckons, borrow one of the hotel’s bikes and take the short road to Main Beach. Choose from a range of room types from studio to larger connecting guest rooms.
Other inclusions: Complimentary wi-fi, Lekker bikes, surfboards, coffee, tea and snacks throughout the day.
Price: $$$$$
This sleek and architecturally designed new-build hotel is one of Byron’s newest five-star lodgings. Hotel Marvell is an astutely sophisticated stay, but what makes it more than just a hotel is its magnetic spaces that are open to all. Both the chic rooftop bar that lures Byron’s hip set come sunset and the elegant, ground-floor oyster bar and seafood restaurant ensure the hotel remains well-lit as a beacon of cool. In the rooms, it’s all tactile, textural and minimal finishes with luxe touches of Leif amenities and a well-curated mini bar. The rooftop pool is on the same level as the bar and enjoys the same views across town. Room types are king-size or larger, one-bedroom or two-bedroom suite.
Other inclusions: In-room Nespresso machine, 11am checkout, complimentary wifi. Accessible rooms available.
For those who’d like to lean into the fantasy of a Byron sea-change, self-contained apartments and cottages are where it’s at. Live like a local and flit from beach to market and back to your accommodation to whip up a meal and spread out in your own private quarters.
Price: $$$$-$$$$$
Relax in this hidden rainforest sanctuary. (Image: Supplied)
Right off the highway as you drive into Byron (so you can avoid some of that weekend traffic) sits Shambhala – a nature-abundant paradise overlooking Byron’s Belongil Beach.
On arrival, you’re greeted by a breathtaking amethyst crystal, Buddha statues and paths that wind their way through forests to your cosy, quirky cottage. With only four cottages, the space feels quiet and peaceful, and each villa has its own dedicated outdoor space, with some boasting spas and a private cabana.
It’s luxurious but humble, with a homely vibe – and you can even bring your pooch. There’s an on-site steam room and sauna to indulge in, and when it comes time to venture out you have direct access to the beach and Byron’s best. Prices start at $375 a night, with a two-night minimum stay.
Other inclusions: Free wi-fi, smart TV, complimentary access to the steam room and sauna.
Price: $$$
Dive into the azure oasis at Mariner Bay Apartments. (Image: Supplied)
More family-friendly than indulgent, Mariner Bay Apartments is the perfect home base for a holiday in the bay.
It’s close to town, and the rooms are clean, comfortable, spacious, and fully self-contained. There’s a barbecue area that opens onto a palm tree garden and a heated salt-water swimming pool perfect for the littlies. Prices start at $600 a night for a two-bedroom apartment with a minimum two-night stay.
Other inclusions: Free wifi, smart TV, and washing machine and dryer.
Price: $$$-$$$$
Unwind in this luxurious beachfront retreat. (Image: Supplied)
Beach Suites Byron Bay offers creature comforts with a sprinkling of luxury right in the centre of town overlooking Byron’s Main Beach.
You can choose from a penthouse apartment with its own private roof-top pool to a simpler garden suite or studio. The fully self-contained spaces are perfect for an indulgent family stay-cation and no detail is forgotten.
It’s even pet-friendly (and just moments away from a dog-friendly beach), so you really can bring the whole tribe along. Prices start at around $400 a night for a simple garden suite.
Other inclusions: Free wifi, complimentary daily paper, private BBQ, and daily servicing.
Price: $$$
For lovers of privacy and home-away-from-home comforts, East on Byron is set right across the road from stunning Belongil Beach and is well-equipped for your self-contained holiday goals. Each apartment has a fully equipped kitchen, laundry and private outdoor area, while benefitting from a shared pool and spa. It’s a few steps away from the beach and nearby Treehouse Restaurant, while a walk into town will only take you 15 minutes along the beach. Choose from two-bedroom villas or the larger penthouses that sleep up to six.
Other inclusions: Free onsite parking and complimentary wi-fi.
Though oozing with luxury now, there’s no denying that camping is a perfect way to soak up some of that real Byron essence. Don’t let this short list fool you – there are endless outdoor escapes for campers around the area.
Price: $
From unpowered camping sites to glamping and modern, lakeside cottages, Discovery Parks Byron Bay has every budget-conscious traveller in mind.
All cottages and glamping tents are light, spacious, and breezy, and tent sites are sunny and often immersed in nature. It’s a few minutes’ drive from the heart of Byron Bay, and about a 25-minute walk to the nearest beach, Belongil Beach.
Perfect for a family getaway, kids will love the bouncing pillow, water park, swimming pool, and playground, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby for the grown-ups to explore. Unpowered tent sites start from just $27 a day, and cabins start at just $145.
Other inclusions: Camp kitchen, on-site cafe, amenities block, and BBQ facilities.
Price: $$
Check into one of the colourful huts. (Image: Supplied)
If you’re keen to be at a family-friendly caravan park that’s just walking distance from Byron town, Glen Villa is your best option. Homely and comfortable, this camping and caravan park has everything you need to feel at home on holiday. There are plenty of accommodation options on offer, so you can choose what suits you best – from simple camping and humble huts to fully self-contained spa cabins. The vibe is friendly, attracting a vast range of visitors – from families to backpackers and anyone wanting to soak up the atmosphere of Byron on a budget.
Prices start at $60 a night for a campsite up to $260 for a family cottage with a four-night minimum stay.
Other inclusions: Free wifi, camp kitchen, and TVs and linen in all cabins.
Price: $$
Tucked right in the nook between Clarkes Beach and The Pass, this absolute beachfront caravan park gets the top score for location. You can pitch your tent or bunk down in one of the many cabins, which range from the deluxe cottage that sleeps six to a standard two-guest cabin. There are also a handful of newer, premium cabins as well as glamping tents and campsites for tent-pitching and parking your caravan. A kiosk, barbecue area and camp kitchen means you needn’t roam too far, but should you need to, it’s a fairly easy walk into town, either up the beach or via the street.
Other inclusions: Playground, laundry, accessible sites and amenities.
This article was originally written by Georgia Hopkins with updates by Lara Picone.
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