Top 10 Luxury Hotels and Retreats in Australia for 2025

There’s nothing like a little luxury to help you refresh, reset and just relax. Lucky for us, Australia has plenty of luxe hotels, retreats and accommodation options on offer for when you really want to treat yourself (which in our opinion, should be as often as possible.) Whether you’re looking for a coastal, beachside haven or are craving off-the-grid seclusion, or simply want to indulge in a comfortable room surrounded by natural beauty, we’ve got you covered.

These hotels have been designed with a mission in mind: offering ultimate relaxation in the most indulgent way possible. You may even find some inspiration at these destinations to spark your own renovation ideas. Scroll on for our round up of the best of the best for 2025.

Raes on Wategos

A hotel which we are sure holds a spot on anyone's to-visit list, the popular Raes on Wategos is almost as iconic as Byron Bay itself. The beachfront accommodation gives you the best of both worlds, a seamless blend of beachside living with the comfort of a private hotel experience. The Coastal meets Mediterranean style boasts two penthouses, five suites and a nearby guesthouse. For an added touch of luxe, Raes also has an on-site pool and spa as well as lush tropical gardens.

Blackbird Byron

Sustainability is key at the Blackbird Byron, which is located amid the Byron Hinterland, on the side of Mount Koonyum. The self-contained luxury and boutique pavilions make use of reclaimed materials and eco-friendly technologies to create a beautiful place to stay that blends creature comforts and the beauty of nature. This retreat also offers massages, bushwalks and a in-house private chef. Think “going off grid”, but make it luxe.

Gilberton Outback Retreat

The Gilberton Outback Retreat, located in Far North Queensland’s Einasleigh, offers an outback experience that may have you never wanting to leave. Enjoy the rugged landscape and panoramic views from the stone and timber accommodation which sits above the Gilbert River.  There’s no phone, internet or TV so you can really recharge without modern distractions and indulge in the beauty of surrounding scenery that shows off the outback aesthetic.

Sir George, Jugiong

If the Aussie bush is more your style, you can’t go past Sir George, Jugiong. The hotel is located in the beautiful village of Jugiong, New South Wales and is by the banks of the Murrumbidgee River. Originally built in the mid 1800s, the stone stables have been renovated and converted into luxury accommodation that provides an upscale modern country charm.

Spicers Sangoma Retreat

Taking cues from its name (Sangoma is the Zulu word for “healer”), the Spicers Sangoma Retreat is a relaxed hideaway nestled with the NSW’s Blue Mountains and overlooking the Nepean River delta. The retreat is all-inclusive, meaning you won’t have to worry about a thing, except soaking in the tree-lined mountain views and ensuring you leave feeling recharged.

Swell Hotel, Byron Bay

Another Byron Bay offering to make the cut is the coastal town’s Swell Hotel. This adults-only accommodation is a top pick for relaxation. According to the hotel, its colour palette is “inspired by the earth’s rich hues and the warmth of Byron Bay” and is designed to provide maximum comfort inside and out with its five-star king beds, tropical gardens and trendy seating areas.

Intercontinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef

If you’re visiting one of the seven wonders of the natural world, the Great Barrier Reef, it’s only to be expected that you’d want to stay somewhere just as beautiful. The Intercontinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef nails the brief with its world-class accommodation. Hayman Island can only be reached by luxury vessel, helicopter or private charter – making this stay even more exclusive. At the Intercontinental, you’ll find 182 guest rooms, suites and villas surrounded by swimming pools, panoramic seascapes and tropical rainforest gardens.

The Langham Gold Coast

For the ultimate indulgence, check out The Langham Gold Coast during your next trip to the Sunshine State. The beachfront high rise hotel boasts 169 hotel rooms and 170 residences with stunning views. The hotel describes itself as offering “serene sophistication and coastal charm” and it ticks all the boxes when it comes to living up to that promise.

Hunter Cabin Byron Bay

Looking for a getaway that nails tranquility at its finest, the Hunter Cabin in Byron Bay provides a secluded stay for those hoping to unwind in style. This private one-bedroom cabin is located away from the hustle and bustle and offers everything you need to unwind, including a premium king-sized bed, a private outdoor deck, two outdoor baths and an outdoor firepit.

Samphire Rottnest

For those headed to Western Australia’s Rottnest Island, there’s simply one place to stay that must make your hit list: Samphire Rottnest. Situated in the heart of Thomson Bay, this beachfront hotel makes the most of the raw natural beauty of its surroundings while also offering comfort and style in its rooms. You’re spoilt for choice for a swim: it’s right next to Thomson Bay beach but also has two lagoon style pools.