The 20 best resorts and lodges in Australia

Where: Hayman Island, Whitsundays

Escape to your very own piece of paradise at Australia’s most famous private island resort. This is the type of place you see on television shows, only much, much better, thanks to its panoramic position on the sparkly blue waters of the Whitsundays. The high-end property is home to 182 uber-fancy guest rooms split across four wings, each boasting either rainforest, beach, lagoon or pool views. Some rooms, like the Pool Ocean View Suites, even offer direct swim-out access to the iconic Hayman pool – the largest pool in the Southern Hemisphere – from a private beach-facing balcony. Unwind by the heated infinity pool, seek shade under the exclusive waterfront cabanas, melt away stress with a hot stone massage, and enjoy a seafood buffet at sunset. Or just take it easy; you're on island time now.

Time Out tip: Every morning, you can make the most of complimentary watersports, including paddleboarding, kayaking and sailing. Trust us, it's worth waking up early for!

Price: From $349 to $699 per night for a room/suite, or from $6,000 for the exclusive Hayman Residences 

Where: Adelaide Hills, SA

You don’t need to book a trip to Bordeaux when South Australia has its own world-class food and wine scene. Base yourself at this intimate adults-only lodge sitting atop the misty Adelaide Hills. Sequoia’s 14 open-plan suites boast a large bathtub with panoramic views of the valley, a spacious private balcony, a sunken lounge room with a toasty fireplace and a moon window for stargazing before bed. Every stay also features 32 signature inclusions and experiences, such as daily breakfast, a complimentary mini bar, an inviting infinity pool, an exclusive spring-fed hot pool experience, plus seasonal walking tours and culinary masterclasses. For the full indulgence, don’t miss a luxurious massage or facial at The Gatekeeper’s Spa, just next door.

Time Out tip: While you’re there, be sure to dine at the award-winning Hardy's Verandah Restaurant, located just next door. Opened in 2017, it’s easily one of Adelaide's finest restaurants, with a 175-year-old cellar and a wine list boasting more than 1,300 labels.

Price: From $1,088 per night

Where: Killcare, Central Coast, NSW

Bells at Killcare is bound to ring a bell for Aussies who appreciate the finer things in life. Nestled on the Bouddi Peninsula just outside Sydney, this coastal-luxe boutique hotel is the epitome of relaxed sophistication with 25 Hamptons-style seaside cottages, a farm-to-table restaurant boasting an award-winning wine list, and a luxurious day spa. In 2024, Bells unveiled four nature-inspired standalone lodges, complete with two king bedrooms, outdoor showers, private verandas, a heated magnesium pool and a sunset deck boasting stunning views of Broken Bay, Palm Beach and Bouddi National Park. And with all meals included, you’ll indulge in a nightly three-course à la carte or five-course chef’s tasting dinner at the acclaimed Wild Flower Bar and Dining. 

Time Out tip: Bells offers new experiences every season – from rejuvenating day spa treatments to spring garden tours, whale-watching adventures, lawn picnics, wine tastings with the in-house sommeliers, private yoga and coastal hikes. Local transfers to Bouddi National Park are also available. 

Price: From $527 per night

Where: Byron Bay, NSW

For an A-class beach holiday in the boho-luxe land of Byron Bay, check out Elements of Byron. This stunning $100 million beachfront resort has been a hot spot for A-list celebrities and influencers since its debut in 2016, and I’m happy to report that it truly lives up to the hype. The property is sprawled across 50 acres of lush beachfront land, just 2.5 kilometres from the heart of town and a short stroll from Belongil Beach. Element’s 202 solar-powered villas are inspired by the four ecological zones found throughout the property: sand dunes, eucalypts, wetlands and rainforest – where you'll wake to the twitter of birds and drift off to the soothing crash of waves. Sun loungers are dotted around the adults-only pool, a swim-up cocktail bar is ready to accede to your every spirit-based whim, and golf buggies will transport you from tennis court to nature trail to jumbo-sized fire pit.

Time Out tip: Elements’ eight freestanding villas are hot property in summer, so you might want to plan a few years in advance. 

Price: From $321 per night

Where: Kangaroo Island, SA

Perched atop limestone cliffs on South Australia’s wildlife-filled Kangaroo Island, Southern Ocean Lodge was one of only two places in Australia named on National Geographic’s world’s best hotels list for 2024. The 25 sparkling suites in this dreamy eco-hotel were recently rebuilt after being destroyed by wildfires in 2019 and 2020. Guests can soak up all the luxuries in their private plunge pool, take in sweeping views of the Indian Ocean from the floor-to-ceiling windows, and cosy up by the fireplace with a nightcap in hand. The extras at Southern Ocean Lodge really are extra, including a secluded spa with sauna and plunge pools, an intimate gymnasium, a heated infinity pool, a cosy reading room, a walk-in cellar and a brand-new restaurant overlooking the panorama of Hanson Bay.

Time Out tip: For those who love the great outdoors, a series of walking trails starts from the lodge's very doorstep. You can pick from tracks to limestone cliffs, through lush bushland and to pristine beach shores. 

Price: From $3,200 per night

Where: Hamilton Island, The Whitsundays, QLD

Sitting pretty in the heart of the Whitsundays, this jaw-dropping resort is a true paradise for luxury seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. With its breathtaking location on Hamilton Island, the resort offers serenity and natural beauty in spades, packaged with an understated luxe vibe that doesn’t brag about its five-star credentials. Qualia's architecture and design seamlessly blend with the surrounding landscape, creating a harmonious atmosphere of tranquillity. Each of the 60 private pavilions boasts stunning views of the Coral Sea and lush tropical gardens, ensuring a sense of A-lister exclusivity. At Qualia, guests can indulge in world-class amenities, including an infinity pool, a state-of-the-art spa, and gourmet dining options that showcase the finest local produce. The resort also offers a range of activities, from snorkelling and diving in the pristine reef to exploring the nearby Whitehaven Beach, consistently ranked among the world's most beautiful sandy shores.

Time Out tip: Make sure to pack your driver's license, as you'll need it to get behind the wheel in one of the complimentary electric golf buggies provided to all Qualia guests.

Price: From $1,720 per night

Where: Bundanoon, Southern Highlands, NSW

Small-town charm meets big-city style at this Southern Highlands haven, located just a two-hour drive from Sydney and Canberra. With century-old gardens on one side and the untouched beauty of Morton National Park on the other, Osborn House provides a private sanctuary to rest and refill your cup. The main heritage building is home to 15 impeccably styled suites, with personal touches that give the rooms a homely feel. In 2024, the boutique property also welcomed five new freestanding forest lodges, complete with cosy wood fires and deep outdoor baths to soak in views of the surrounding national park. Guests can also unwind on the forest bathing deck, featuring a soothing jacuzzi, sauna and ice bath. For an extra layer of luxe, you can book a massage or facial treatment at Osborn’s serene day spa. Additional amenities include a 25-metre lap pool, steam room, pickleball and tennis courts, plus a fully equipped gym with Peloton bikes.

Time Out tip: Time your trip with winter, when Osborn House heats up for Fire Feast – an incredible Argentinian-inspired dining experience centred around the open flame. If visiting outside of fire season, you can savour the best of the Southern Highlands’ produce in the elegant Dinah’s dining room or unwind with a casual drink at George’s Bar.

Where: Yulara, Uluru, NT

There are times to be frugal, and there are times to splurge. Longitude 131º is one such experience. Dotted among the dusty dunes of Australia’s Red Centre are 16 tented pavilions, each offering a glamorous base from which to explore the World Heritage-listed natural icons Uluru and Kata Tjuta. After a day of exploring, you can lounge around in your spacious abode, of which there are just 15. With space to accommodate up to three guests, each luxury tent features a plush king bed, a generous bathroom, a lounge opening to a private balcony with a fireplace, plus local Indigenous artworks and custom-designed furniture from Australian designers. Make the most of your stay with Longitude’s help-yourself bar, plush outdoor lounges, plunge spa and rain shower, plus dinner under the stars.

Time Out tip: For the ultimate experience, book a stay in the exclusive Dune Pavilion, which is Australia's only accommodation to offer views of both Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Gasp!

Price: From $3,780 per night for a luxury tent

Where: Durack, the Kimberley region, WA

Discover the endless beauty of Australia’s untamed Kimberley region from this expansive 700,000-acre property, housing a maximum of only 20 guests at any time. The Homestead opens seasonally from April to October, offering a relaxed escape from the daily hustle and bustle. Along with feather-topped beds and double deluxe baths, guests are treated to gourmet meals daily and can enjoy amenities including a self-serve bar, swimming pool, valet laundry and a complimentary in-room selection of the finest local beverages. The all-inclusive experience also includes tours, such as a river cruise, exclusive use of Zebedee Thermal Springs, a sunset trip to Buddy’s Point, and guided walks through the rugged gorges and tranquil rainforests of the Kimberley region. 

Time Out tip: For something a little more affordable, El Questro also offers 30 private riverside camping sites, just a ten-minute drive from The Station's central facilities. At The Station, you'll also find The Black Cockatoo campground, which offers both powered and unpowered sites.

Price: From $2,915 per night

Where: Milawa, North East Victoria

Located at the gateway to Victoria’s King Valley, this recently refurbished boutique hotel offers luxury with a welcome dose of good ol’ fashioned country hospitality. Venture through to Lancemore’s outdoor back plaza, which overlooks rows of vines, and you’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve somehow been transported to a Tuscan villa. There’s a pond, hammocks, white umbrellas, festoon lights and a pool with sun lounges – insert Aperol Spritz here, thanks. The rooms themselves are modern, spacious and elegantly furnished – each featuring a gorgeous bouclé daybed deserving of a standalone post on the ‘gram and providing the perfect spot for a cheeky arvo nap. Watch the sun go down from your private balcony or terrace, and be sure to suss out the mini bar chock-full of local wines, beers and snacks.

Time Out tip: Lancemore's on-site, Restaurant Merlot, is a must-visit. Named in honour of the grapes planted on the property, it showcases the very best of seasonal produce via a paddock-to-plate dining approach. The menu is ever-changing, but if the Milawa honey-glazed duck breast with ratatouille, baba ghanoush and rice crisps happens to be available, do yourself a favour and order it. We promise you won’t be disappointed. 

Price: From $271 per night

Where: Coles Bay, TAS

There’s luxe and then there’s luxe. A hidden hideaway in Tasmania’s stunning Freycinet National Park, this all-inclusive resort is home to 20 luxury suites with breathtaking views of Wineglass Bay. Your stay is bound to be a generous mix of relaxation and adventure. During the day, you’ll be entertained by harbour distillery tours, Tasmanian devil encounters, oyster farm culinary experiences and hikes. Then, at night, you’ll be greeted with relaxing deck lounges, therapeutic milk bath soaks and world-class menus. As for where you'll be sleeping, Saffire offers three accommodation options, including the most spacious Private Pavilions with a plunge pool and courtyard; the Signature Suites with a relaxing deck lounge and bathroom overlooking Great Oyster Bay; and the Luxury Suites with a mix of traditional and contemporary Tasmanian furnishings.

Time Out tip: If you're transiting through Hobart, why not stay the night at one of Saffire Freycinet's sister properties – MACq01 Hotel or The Henry Jones Art Hotel.

Price: From $2,900 per night

Where: Lizard Island, QLD

Fringed with colourful coral reefs and Australia’s most sparkling seas, this exclusive island retreat is a must for those seeking world-class hospitality with access to the country's greatest natural wonder, the Great Barrier Reef. As the only luxury stay located directly on the Reef, Lizard Island Resort truly offers the quintessential tropical island experience, with snorkelling, diving, kayaking and fishing all on your doorstep. Stay in complete seclusion in one of the resort’s tropical garden view suites, or opt for uninterrupted views of the turquoise water from a beachfront villa. Culinary excellence is a highlight at Lizard Island Resort, with multiple dining options ranging from casual beachside fare to fine dining experiences. The resort also offers a range of activities, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and indulgent spa treatments. For those seeking a little more action from the vaycay, fishing charters and scenic helicopter tours are available to explore the surrounding wonders.

Time Out tip: Lizard Island Resort is committed to the future of its under-threat neighbour, with initiatives in place to protect the fragile ecosystems of the Great Barrier Reef and the island itself. Chat to the staff to learn more about their eco-friendly initiatives. 

Price: From $2,000 per night

Where: Canberra's National Zoo and Aquarium, ACT

If your Instagram feed has been looking a little lacklustre lately, we have a surefire cure: take a bubble bath in a five-star hotel next to a pair of Malayan sun bears. Yes, we’re serious. This is a real, actual thing you can do at Jamala Wildlife Lodge, inside Canberra’s National Zoo and Aquarium. In addition to blowing your tiny mind forever (you can lie on the floor and pretend to spoon the bear through the glass because no one is watching you – just the animal), a stay at the Lodge will help support the Zoo’s conservation efforts. There are three accommodation options at Jamala: the uShaka Lodge, which feels the most like a luxury hotel; the Giraffe Treehouses, which, as the name suggests, overlook a giraffe enclosure; and the Jungle Bungalows, which are private suites located around the zoo, built right into the enclosures of apex predators like lions, tigers and bears. An overnight stay comes with all the behind-the-scenes perks you’d hope for from a sleepover at the zoo, including a guided afternoon tour; pre-dinner drinks featuring Moët, canapés and a pair of surprisingly adorable hyenas; an African-influenced dinner party next to the aquarium; and lots of Insta-worthy animal encounters.

Time Out tip: If you dream of falling asleep next to your favourite animal (and a glass wall, cause safety and stuff), you can find out which rooms offer views of which wildlife here. Our top pick? The Reef Room, which overlooks a five-metre deep ocean aquarium. 

Price: From $1,556 per night

Where: Lonsdale, Bellarine Peninsula, VIC

You know that feeling you get from watching puppy videos? Yeah, that’s how you’re going to feel after a stay at this warm and welcoming seaside retreat. Seven luxury suites are spread throughout the sandstone building, with each designed to feel like a warm hug, featuring floor-to-ceiling window panes and a colour palette that reflects the surrounding coastal farmland. Guests are often seen relaxing in the communal foyer by the modern fireplace, reading in the sun-drenched nook by the spa, or at the large dining table. Despite the (welcome) isolation, there’s plenty to do. You can try one of the farm’s walking tracks, head down to the surf (Lon Retreat has private beach access) or really lean into your relaxing getaway with a mineral springs water therapy treatment at the day spa.

Time Out tip: Relax with a dip in Lon Retreat’s mineral water pool. The water is sourced from a limestone aquifer that was discovered over 100 years ago. It feels noticeably soft to swim in, and there’s a hot plunge pool for cool days.

Price: From $525 per night

Where: Margaret River, WA

Clock out of the office and into full relaxation mode at Western Australia’s award-winning five-star resort, located on the crystal clear waters of Bunker Bay in the magical Margaret River wine region. Surrounded by peppermint trees and sand dunes, this resort truly is a piece of paradise on earth. Dip your toes in the heated infinity pool, enjoy a pamper session at Vie Spa, find inner peace with complimentary yoga classes, explore the region’s best drops on a wine-tasting tour, and close out the day with sunset drinks on the ocean-view terrace, before retreating to your villa. Speaking of villas, there are six options to cater for you and your crew. Each abode – whether a romantic studio or a family bungalow-style villa –features lake or garden views, an outdoor courtyard or deck, a kitchen or kitchenette, a Smart LCD TV and complimentary WiFi.

Time Out tip: The award-winning day spa, Vie Spa Bunker Bay, has a private infrared sauna that you can book from just $50. When in paradise...

Price: From $337 per night

Where: The Daintree, QLD

Under the lush and leafy canopy of the Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest, you’ll find 40 luxury treehouses fitted with private verandas, inviting hammocks, large spa baths and generous amenities. Let Silky Oaks Lodge be your base for exploring the natural theatres of the surrounding Mossman River, where you can embark on Dreamtime walks, the Valley Falls hike, helicopter flights or enjoy a peaceful picnic on the forest floor. Despite feeling worlds away from reality, the lodge is just a 20-minute drive from Port Douglas and an 80-minute drive from Cairns. Both locations are beautiful gateways to the Great Barrier Reef, giving you the best of both worlds – a rainforest escape and a coastal getaway in one unforgettable trip.

Time Out tip: Look out for the textured works of local Aboriginal artists woven throughout Silky Oaks Lodge. One standout is the striking installation at the main lodge entrance, which features 45 ceramic tiles created by artists from Yalanji Arts Centre.

Price: From $1,300 per night

Where: The Kimberley, WA

You can only access Australia’s most remote luxury lodge experience by air, meaning that your adventure starts before you even check in. From the sky, you can admire the lodge’s 20 identical villas, floating atop two coastal sand dunes on the Kimberley Coast. You can relax into the rhythms of nature from your sun-soaked private veranda, laze away the afternoon on the comfy outdoor daybed, or soak in the Kimberley moonlight from the open-air bathtub. Add to the indulgence of your stay with a luxurious spa treatment using Indigenous, locally sourced products. Or get in touch with your wild side by taking a river cruise, uncovering hidden waterfalls, going barramundi fishing, and chasing coastal sunsets on a 4WD tour.

Time Out tip: Loved your Kimberley-inspired meal at the on-site Dune Restaurant? Their talented chefs are happy to share their recipes upon request. 

Price: From $2,995 per night

Where: Mount Mulligan, QLD

Sitting in the shadow of its namesake tabletop mountain, the majestic Mt Mulligan Lodge offers a stylish way to experience the spirit of the North Queensland outback. This eco-property sits on an expansive 28,000-hectare cattle station, accessible by a scenic 35-minute helicopter flight from Cairns or a thrilling 2.5-hour 4WD adventure. Each of Mt Mulligan’s charming glamping tents, retreat rooms and spacious suites is designed for indulgence, featuring a deep outdoor bathtub, private veranda, gourmet minibar and an electric buggy to zip around the property. During your stay, you can enjoy complimentary daily activities, including ghost town tours, gold mine tours, ATV adventures, sunrise experiences, Mount Mulligan walks, plus kayaking on the weir. 

Time Out tip: Try your hand at barramundi fishing from the weir's banks or a kayak. If you catch one, you can bring the fish back to the lodge and have it prepared to your liking by their in-house chefs. No fishy business allowed, though – you can only catch mature barramundi. 

Price: From $1,795 per night

Where: Port Stephens, NSW

For a Hamptons-style holiday, look no further than this seaside sanctuary and spa in NSW’s charming coastal town of Port Stephens. This private haven is just a 2.5-hour drive from Sydney CBD, moored on the cusp of a boutique marina. There are ten different room styles on offer, ranging from a bright and breezy garden room to a seaside sanctuary with enviable waterfront views, a family room, a loft suite and a self-contained luxe villa. Wherever you choose to rest your head, you’ll wake up to the sound of lapping waves and the fresh ocean breeze blowing through your window. The picturesque Corlette beach is a short barefoot stroll away, but you can also bask in the vista of the bay from the resort’s infinity pool, with snacks and Spritz from the brand-new poolside bar.

Time Out tip: The Anchorage's on-site restaurant, The Gallery Kitchen, was recently awarded best restaurant in a hotel & resort at the R&CA Savour Awards for Excellence. Give it a whirl by sampling their signature sparkling wine breakfast, à la carte lunch and dinners, or decadent high teas.

Price: From $399 per night

Where: Bay of Fires, TAS

Hidden behind the squeaky white sands of the Bay of Fires is this hilltop escape, exclusively for those who embark on the scenic four-day, three-night Bay of Fires walk. Sitting 130 feet above sea level, the Lodge offers unparalleled views of the bay and beyond from its floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Make friends over shared meals in the expansive living area, cosy up by the open fire with a book from the library, or rest your feet on the relaxing deck chairs. Pre-bookings are best if you’re keen to sink into the outdoor tub or settle in for a luxurious few hours at the spa.

Time Out tip: Don't worry about lugging a book around. The lodge has a little library, where you can cosy up with a borrowed novel and take in sweeping ocean views.

Price: From $2,995 for the Bay of Fires Signature Walk, including accommodation