It’s wild to think there was a time when your only accommodation options when travelling were ridiculously expensive hotels, crusty motels or questionable hostels. Now, thanks to Airbnb, you can stay in castles, caves, lighthouses and even giant wine barrels. If you’re in the mood for a funky getaway, Airbnb has just revealed the winners of its 2025 Australian Host Awards – and there are plenty of hidden gems.
Now in its fifth year, these awards “recognise hosts who go above and beyond, welcoming guests with warmth, thoughtful design and local flavour.” Winners are crowned across six categories, such as Best Design Stay and Best Family-Friendly Stay, and you can take a peek at the winning Airbnbs below.
Best Design Stay: Banksia House, QLD
Sitting on prime real estate in the Sunshine Coast, this striking coastal headland retreat is the ultimate holiday home for rest and relaxation. It’s one of the few Airbnbs in the area with a pool (a magnesium pool, no less), and also boasts a bocce court, two fireplaces, lush gardens and a lustworthy outdoor bath. Add it to the wishlist!
Best Nature Stay: Ligo, NSW
If Mother Nature had an Airbnb wishlist, this dreamy tiny home just outside of Sydney would be right at the top. Hidden on a 100-acre property in the Blue Mountains, this off-grid retreat is the perfect place to reconnect with the wild beauty of the Australian bush. We’re particularly crushing on the private outdoor tub, where you can soak under a completely clear starry night sky.
Best Family-Friendly Stay: Sassafras Country Retreat, NSW
This picturesque five-bedroom farmhouse in NSW's Southern Highlands is the best place for a group getaway. Set on a 98-acre country estate just two hours from Sydney, it offers five big bedrooms, multiple outdoor living spaces, a sandstone fireplace, an outdoor fire pit and sweeping views of Kangaroo Valley. Forward it to the group chat!
Host of the Year: Braithwaite, TAS
If you’re looking for a super-personalised stay, you can’t go past this chic courtyard apartment in Hobart’s picturesque Sandy Bay. Designed by JAWS Architects (the masterminds behind Pumphouse Point), the stylish urban retreat boasts a glass-cornered dining area, heated bathroom flooring and a sun-drenched courtyard with a full-sized outdoor bath. From handwritten notes to playful nods to its past as a heritage-listed bakery, hosts Alix and John are sure to make your stay memorable.
Best New Host: "The Nook" Studio Guesthouse, SA
This cosy cottage in the Adelaide Hills wine region is one of Airbnb’s highest-rated new properties, thanks to the warm hospitality of hosts Erin and Rory. Built on their family property, The Nook features open-plan living, a fireplace and a private patio with a soaking tub. We think this would be perfect for a dreamy couples’ getaway.
Best Room Host: Short Stay Made Simple, NSW
This peaceful upstairs retreat in Sydney’s Upper North Shore has everything you need – and then some – for a short and simple stay. Hosts Caroline and Daniel go the extra mile, with guests raving about the spotless home, warm hospitality, shared meals, late station pickups and full kitchen access. Talk about above and beyond!