The Swell

When you arrive at The Swell, you won’t find a reception lined with computers. Instead, follow the burning aroma of Dutchie incense to The Swell Bar (the bar is where all holidays should start, really). Fitted with a golden velvet lounge and thriving greenery, the ’70s-inspired space is just a taste of the cool, lived-in charm inside your room. A welcome spritz while one of the friendly staff checks you in is encouraged.

A pair of Californian natives are behind the hotel: married couple Andrew Maltin and DayNa Decker. They now call Byron Bay home, but have spent much of their lives travelling. Working with local designer Nyree Mackenzie, Maltin and Decker took the bones of a small roadside lodge and transformed it into a pristine stay.

There are 16 custom-designed suites offering laid-back luxury: a velvet king bedhead arching across one wall, ornate light shades and your own cocktail station. Each suite features a cosy reading nook and large accordion windows too. Plus, a minibar with a menu that reads like a list of the area’s best producers.

The adults-only hotel sets itself apart with its focus on wellness. A yoga deck sits next to a sprawling lawn and garden, and within a pink-marble-tiled oasis, find a magnesium mineral swimming pool, infrared sauna and ice bath – all included in your stay.

Positioned on the corner of Butler and Lawson streets, the town’s best bars and restaurants, main beach and markets are – quite literally – at the back gate.