14 Most Romantic Places To Stay In Byron Bay

Byron Bay is as romantic as it is beautiful, making it the perfect place to celebrate with your significant other.

Now you’ve picked Byron Bay as your destination and mentally packed your itinerary full of the best things to do in Byron, the only question that remains is, where to stay?

Whether it’s a special occasion or just an excuse to amp up the TLC, these romantic accommodation options will leave you in the mood for love.

1. Blackbird luxury escape

hinterland views from the bedroom at Blackbird luxury escape, Byron Bay

Bed down at this serene haven. (Image: Property Shot Photography)

Best for: Sustainable seclusion

The Byron accommodation offering got a whole lot more beautiful when it welcomed Blackbird – an environmentally sustainable, luxury assortment of self-contained pavilions and facilities. What started as the brainchild of James and Stella Hudson quickly blossomed into a secluded oasis, framed by acres of the famous green rainforest and hinterland. The couple spend the day rustling up breakfasts and pizza on-demand, offering local recommendations, sorting in-room massages or on-site yoga.

Wake to spectacular views of Cape Byron and the Pacific Ocean, and spend the day in your own little world – or if you fancy, 30 minutes away in the buzzing town centre.

2. The Atlantic

an outdoor pool at The Atlantic, Byron Bay

Expect total bliss at this boutique hotel. (Image: The Atlantic)

Best for: Sun-drenched stays

For those who have been to Byron before, many of these accommodations require very little introduction. The Atlantic is one of them.

This ultra-trendy boutique hotel puts the bay at your fingertips, with four unique cottages all lovingly restored with meticulous attention to detail.

Soak up the sun on the lawn, read under a palm tree and enjoy balmy evenings by the fire – romance comes naturally at this coastal home away from home.

3. Shambhala

the Sarita retreat at Shambhala, Byron Bay

A three-bedroom retreat perched on the treetop with rainforest views. (Image: Shambhala)

 Best for: Barefoot beachfront escapes

Hidden in the exclusive enclave of Belongil Beach is Byron’s best-kept accommodation secret. The four unique cottages of Shambhala are set within the rainforest, yet remain one of the few properties positioned right on the sand.

Upon arrival, guests are greeted by magnificent temple doors and statues, leading to both the accommodation and a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces, all with absolute beachfront access.

4. The Bower

a bedroom with bathtub at The Bower, Byron Bay

The suites are spacious and feature a freestanding bath. (Image: The Bower)

Best for: Reigniting passion

Say hello to Australian beach style, reinvented.

Similar to the famous Halcyon House in Cabarita, The Bower reimagines the iconic surf motel, combining the barefoot ambience of Byron Bay with contemporary luxury. And we do mean luxury…

Standing on almost half a hectare, this New York-inspired property offers accommodation in an array of formats; including barns, cottages, hotel rooms and suites. There’s also an award-winning circular swimming pool, framed by low-hanging palm trees and that famous Byron foliage. A stay here will reignite your faith in romance – if not with each other, then with the design decisions of this incredible property.

5. Elements of Byron

Spend your days relaxing poolside.

Best for: Relaxing poolside, all day

Glistening pool, utter relaxation and some of the best serenity Australia has to offer, you’d be hard-pressed to find a reason not to head to Elements of Byron. Six years in the making, the property opened in 2016 after a $100 million beachfront build. Now, it’s heralded for its design, eco-values and luxury appeal.

Spend your days surrounded by bures, settees and hanging lounges by the lagoon pool. It’s the jewel in Elements’ crown. And when you’re all baked out, book a session at the popular Osprey Spa – in advance if possible.

7. Raes on Wategos

the beach house interior at Raes on Wategos, Byron Bay

Each suite boasts understated coastal elegance. (Image: Madeleine Johnson/Sean Fennessy)

Best for: Celebration luxe

Housed on the most coveted real estate in Byron Bay, Raes on Wategos is a boutique retreat that embodies the very definition of opulence.

This perfectly quiet pocket of Byron Bay, with its sparkling turquoise waters and pretty beach houses tucked into the hills, is more beautiful than words can explain. From the moment you arrive at this white 1960s villa on the edge of the idyllic Wategos Beach, you can tell you are somewhere special. Accommodation options include a villa, two penthouses and four luxury suites, enjoyed after a night of modern Australian at the Raes Dining Room, and sunset drinks at the Cellar Bar.

6. Byron Cove Beach House

Best for: Beach-adjacent romance

Bed and breakfasts are the backbones of any romantic escape – aren’t they?

Our pick is the Byron Cove Beach House, the ultimate place to indulge, luxuriate and cocoon. Retreat to one of four studio-styled rooms, all fitted with luxurious furnishings, large beds and an ensuite. Then, finish your stay with an extensive selection of delicious breakfast options. Situated right next to the bustling town centre, it’s only a minute’s walk through the nature track and over the sand dunes to Belongil Beach. Perfection.

8. Cape Byron Retreat

Cape Byron Retreat offers a soothing respite. (Image: Supplied)

Best for: Hideaway vibes

Sit back, relax and enjoy the hinterland serenity at this adults-only retreat.

The beauty of Cape Byron is both its scale and locale. At three acres, the tranquil heaven offers expansive views of Wollumbin (Mount Warning), and all the fresh air your heart could desire. It feels a world away, and yet it’s only 7 minutes’ drive from the heart of town (and its beaches). Select from one of eight rooms, ranging from deluxe king villas to cottage studios and spa rooms – just to turn up the dial on the romance. Some rooms also have kitchenette options, which is an added bonus for those who splurged on accommodation.

No matter which room you choose, Cape Byron Retreat will deliver.

9. Beach Suites

sunlounger and umbrella by the pool at Beach Suites, Byron Bay

Relax on a cosy sun lounge by the pool. (Image: Beach Suites)

Best for: Partners with pets

Overlooking the iconic Main Beach, Beach Suites offers the best in upscale stylish boutique studios and large, airy apartments. If you want somewhere to park and call home both short and long-term, indulge in a setting that is individually catered with all the modern conveniences. There are flat-screen TVs, free wireless Internet, Foxtel, intercom access and secure undercover parking in an unrivalled, central location. They are also the only pet-friendly luxury option in the area, which is perfect for couples who travel with companions.

10. The Brooklet

Retreat into architectural villas with lush garden views. (Image: Jess Kearney)

Best for: Luxe with a side of wellness

Nestled in the hinterland behind Byron, The Brooklet is a beautifully curated luxury escape to revive all romance. There are one- two- and three-bedroom architectural villas set on lush and undulating gardens, but you’ll only need one bedroom for intimate interludes, where you can either cosy up by your indoor fireplace or lounge by the property’s 25-metre pool. You can also enjoy some wellness as a couple with the hot tub, ice bath and sauna or book in for a massage in the stylish treatment room.

11. Bask & Stow

white-painted exterior with outdoor chairs at Bask & Stow

Bespoke suites exude coastal charm. (Image: Bask & Stow)

Best for: Tropical vibes

Five king-size bespoke suites all white-washed and infused with Byron style are set just a short stroll from dazzling Clarkes Beach. Here you can let the salt dry on your skin as you return to your soothingly styled, air-conditioned digs or refresh in the beckoning plunge pool. Elegant and thoughtfully curated, Bask & Stow will restore your lovers’ glow.

12. 99 Acres

a luxe retreat at 99 Acres with its own deck

Bask in unparalleled comfort at 99 Acres. (Image: Supplied)

Best for: Courtship in the countryside

This ridge-top retreat in Bangalow spoils guests with sweeping 360-degree hinterland vistas. There’s a five-room guesthouse or four stand-alone villas, each with its own deck, to settle into for some couples’ downtime. Take the eight-minute wander into town, revive in the 99 Acres pool or just watch the sun disappear in a pantomime of golden hues from your deck.

13. Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat

This tranquil rainforest sanctuary is the perfect place to cocoon away.

Best for: Asking the big question

Right on the NSW and Queensland border, about one hour from Byron, this tranquil rainforest sanctuary is the perfect place to cocoon away with your better half. Whether you opt to snuggle up in a creek-side spa cabin soundtracked by melodic water, a canopy or glass terrace bungalow, or one of the luxury lodges with private plunge pools, you’ll be in a lushly hemmed heaven where the pressures of the outside world can’t intrude. Head to the bar lounge and wine cellar for a cosy drink before enjoying dinner delivered to your room. And when romance really is the only requirement, you can take the matrimonial plunge in style with one of three proposal packages to choose from.

14. Ingenia Holiday Parks Glamping

Best for: Love on a shoestring
Love doesn’t always require a huge investment. Lock in for nature-edged romance with glamping in a stylish belle tent at Byron’s Ingenia Holiday Park. There are no half-deflated blow-up mattresses and soggy canvas here, but rather a plush, king-size bed, air-conditioning and private deck. Festooned with fairy lights and nestled amid the 28-acre beachfront park, it’s ideal for budget liaisons.

15. Swell Hotel

Rooms feature an elegant combo of velvet and timber furnishings.

Best for: Retro vibes and relaxation

Swell Hotel is all sumptuous 70s-style interiors that foster connection and relaxation. While it’s located in the middle of town, this adults-only stay has 16 uniquely designed suites which means you won’t be fighting for pool space or yearning for peace and quiet. This is a wellness-drive retreat, so expect a state-of-the-art cedar sauna, magnesium mineral swimming pool healthy elixirs served poolside), infrared sauna and an ice bath.

Originally written by Eliza Sholly with updates by Lara Picone

We checked into the newly refurbished The Bower which features new rooms, a day spa and a bar.

Byron Bay is peppered with breezy stays that channel the laidback town’s coastal charm. The most recent accommodation to catch our attention is The Bower. While not a new kid on the block, this popular boutique hotel has just received a stylish upgrade to its New York chic meets beachy calm aesthetic. The makeover includes the addition of a sparkling new bar, a day spa and four new accommodations, elevating it just in time for summer. And it promises luxe meets relaxed vibes aplenty.

Here’s everything you need to know before booking a stay at this coastal retreat surrounded by lush sub-tropical gardens.

Location

an aerial view of the Main Beach, Byron Bay

The Bower is just a short stroll from Main Beach. (Image: Harrison Adams)

The Bower is centrally located within walking distance of Byron’s best restaurants, cafes and bars. The General Store Cafe, a popular cafe serving a delicious range of local goods from gourmet granola to cold-pressed juices, is located next door, and Pixie Italian, a sleek Italian trattoria serving modern Sicilian-style bites, is a five-minute walk away – the mafaldine with king prawns, cherry tomato, chilli pangrattato and bisque is a must!

A gentle 20-minute stroll down the road will have you at Main Beach, a popular spot for families as it’s patrolled every day of the year. Cape Byron Lighthouse is less than 10 minutes’ drive away and offers spectacular vantage points for spotting migrating whales. During my stay, I spotted too many whales to keep track of, dolphins and a sea turtle.

Book a relaxed weekend stay at The Bower. (Image: Harrison Adams)

The Bower also offers complimentary LEKKER bikes, and in my opinion, this is the best way to explore the region.

Ballina Byron Gateway Airport is the closest airport and is a half-hour drive away. Ubers are prevalent in the area, but The Bower also offers luxury transfers.

Style and character

the moody interior of The Bower Byron Bay

The new bar area is a sumptuous spot for a pre-dinner tipple. (Image: Leif Prenzlau)

Multiple creatives have contributed to The Bower’s style over time.

Originally co-owned and designed by Tahliah Lowry (Micalo) alongside architect John Burgess and interior designer Kate Sacks, The Bower mixes New York chic with breezy Byron Bay charm.

Architects Tanev Muir and Studio Plenty guided the recent renovation, enhancing the interiors and adding four new suites, a bar area and an upgraded reception space. They worked closely with local artisans such as Joinery by Morgan and Alexis Williams to craft custom joinery and furnishings. The result is spaces balanced with blackened oak wall panelling, silky lacquered surfaces and custom cabinetry, complemented by lighter accents and soft textures.

Stylist Kimberley Wiedermann of Accolade Design was also called upon in the makeover. Wiedermann sensitively built upon the existing monochromatic aesthetic over 18 months, while also styling the new spaces. “Building on The Bower’s signature monochromatic aesthetic, I introduced rich, earthy textures and tones, layering oversized furniture, artisan-crafted objects and bespoke pieces,” she explained.

Styling focused on rich textural elements such as linens, velvets, and vintage artworks in pared-back tones. Photographs by former synchronised swimmer turned photographer Francesca Owens, taken from the hotel’s swimming pool, are displayed throughout the accommodation, adding a personal touch that feels perfectly in tune with the coastal setting.

Facilities

the magnesium pool at The Bower Byron Bay

Soak in the magnesium pool. (Image: Rachael Thompson)

It’s hard to pull yourself away from the hotel’s biggest drawcard – the circle-shaped, heated magnesium pool. While away the afternoon, dipping into the water and lying in one of the cabanas or sun lounges.

From the beach club-style seating area, you can order a range of simple nibbles like Byron Bay Corn Chips with salsa and classic cocktails, local gins, beers and seltzers. The Bower also features a sumptuous new indoor/outdoor bar area that shares the same menu as the pool area and features velvet, and is perfect for pre-dinner tipples or relaxed afternoon drinks.

a woman enjoying a relaxing spa treatment at The Bower Byron Bay

Treat yourself at the day spa. (Image: Jessie Prince)

The on-site day spa offers a range of treatments, from facials to massages, using luxurious Mukti Organics products. I indulged in a 60-minute Power Facial and walked away with impossibly soft skin and a deep sense of calm.

Rooms

A generously sized suite with moody and sophisticated interior at The Bower. (Image: Harrison Adams)

The Bower offers a beautiful mix of stays, from romantic studios and luxe king rooms for two, to spacious cottages for families and groups. For relaxed weekends away, the light-filled Junior King Rooms, Junior King Plus and King Rooms sit right by the mineral pool and feature king beds, while the freestanding Studios feature moody interiors and stone baths for pure indulgence. The light-filled Barn, with its kitchenette, private courtyard, and glass-ceiling ensuite with an egg-shaped bath feels like your own private oasis.

For group stays, the reimagined century-old Cottage has five bedrooms – three with ensuites – and a private cedar mineral spa.

the white-washed cottage at The Bower Byron Bay

The breezy beach cottage fits your definition of a dream getaway. (Image: Harrison Adams)

Four new Upper King rooms have been added to the upper level of the property and can be booked from mid-September. Three feature spacious balconies with lush greenery, and all four rooms can be booked together as a private family space.

Every accommodation features luxury amenities by Hunter and Kevin Murphy, a dedicated parking spot directly out front, a Nespresso coffee machine, and a mini bar with gourmet snacks.

Does The Bower have access for guests with disabilities?

The Bower has two Junior King accessible rooms.

Details

Best for: Wellness seekers and small groups.

Address: 28 Bangalow Rd, Byron Bay

Room rate: From $300 per night

15 of the most romantic places to stay in Byron Bay