Byron Bay has changed – and is still changing. But despite the sharp rise in tourism and new developments cropping up around the coastal town, its allure remains the same: sun-kissed beaches and coastlines, a laid-back vibe, some of the country’s best swells and an invitation to slow down for a little while.

While the beaches are superb, don’t miss out on the secluded beauty of the hinterland and its lush rolling hills, charming villages and the exciting restaurants that have attracted some of the best chefs from all over the country.

Whichever kind of holiday you’re looking for, we’ve rounded up nine of the best Airbnbs to book for your next holiday.

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Byron Bay

The Joint

Sleeps 6 / from $600 a night / two-night minimum This contemporary home on Bangalow Road, right between the town proper and Tallow Beach in the east, oozes Mediterranean appeal. Three bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms means you won’t butt heads on your group holiday. There’s a light-filled kitchen with cabinetry made from recycled timber and hand-thrown crockery by friends of the host. There are two adjacent guesthouses – Saint Helena and Friday Hut – if you want to bring a bigger crowd.

The Bower

Sleeps up to 10 / up to $1500 per night / three-night minimum What was once a run-of-the-mill coastal motel has been transformed into a luxury retreat with 19 self-contained and self-catered suites, a refurbished heritage cottage and a modern villa. Plus, one of the best pools in the Byron area – a round mineral pool with a tropical, brutalist-style concrete terrace. Each accommodation option has its own charms, and all are designed in a cohesive monochrome and grayscale aesthetic. The five-bedroom cottage comes with a private cedarwood spa, while the romantic barn has a freestanding egg-shaped bath underneath an all-glass ceiling.
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Apartamento

Sleeps 4 / $359 per night / two-night minimum This loft-like two-bedroom apartment is full of natural light and soft textures. It’s by the same duo behind fashion label St Agni, and it shows in the air of understated luxury that permeates the space. Just like the label (its warehouse, retail store and office space are right below), the flat balances form and function with minimalism and refinement. There’s a muted colour palette accented by warm handmade timber furniture; the queen beds are dressed in Bed Threads flax linen, and sheer drapes allow soft light to peek through in the morning. Apartamento’s just three kilometres from the town centre, and the beach is a two-minute drive (or 20-minute walk) away.

The Mayflower

Sleeps 4 / $240 per night Just minutes from the centre of town, this bright and airy apartment brings a clean and modern twist to beach house vibes. There’s a master bedroom in the loft, and a second bedroom with a queen-sized bed. Sip coffee on the outdoor terrace looking out onto a canopy of trees, or get cosy on the couch while you plan your day. Will it be a restaurant, the beach or a trip to the hinterland? The central location makes every option easy.

Cactus Rose

Sleeps 2 / $912 per night / three-night minimum Much like Apartamento, this villa channels the same aesthetic as a beloved Aussie fashion label – this time the carefree bohemian vibes of Spell. Located right above the store, the villa feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of Byron’s town center (despite being right in the heart of it). There’s an attic-style bedroom with a king bed and a bath, and a private pool with sun loungers and an outdoor shower surrounded by rock gardens and palm trees.

Hinterland

Two Acres, Clunes

Sleeps 8 / $680 per night / two-night minimum You’ll find this resort-style house inspired by Spain, Bali and Thailand half an hour inland from Byron Bay. It’s surrounded by two acres of tropical gardens and has communal spaces for socialising, like the deck, firepit, cabana and infinity pool. There are four ample bedrooms; a large open-plan kitchen, dining and living area; plus a library full of books, board games and more.

Paddock Hall, Tintenbar

Sleeps 2 / $800 per night / two-night minimum This rustic Alpine-style cabin is on a secluded macadamia farm – making it a prime choice if you want to escape civilization for a little while. Watch the resident goats grazing in the adjoining paddock from the vintage outdoor clawfoot bath. Inside you’ll find a wood fireplace, king-sized bed and kitchenette in the open-plan space. Yalburaba, a separate four-bedroom house on the property, is also available to book.
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Blackbird, Mullumbimby Creek

Sleeps 2 / $677 per night / two-night minimum With its striking brutalist design, this secluded, adults-only hotel is unconventional from the outset. There’s a large open-plan communal space with a magnesium mineral pool set against views of Cape Byron and the Pacific Ocean, and the three separate guest pavilions are laid out like a studio and have floor-to-ceiling windows, generous baths and a bed facing the view.

Rosalita’s Rest, Billinudgel

Sleeps 2–4 / from $350 per night / two-night minimum Two romantic boutique cabins sit on a biodynamic farm in the hinterland surrounded by lush hillside. Each has a queen-sized bed, indoor shower, vintage furniture, an edible garden and outdoor clawfoot bathtub. The Wildheart Dreamer cabin suits couples, and the Capricorn Dancer cabin has a second bedroom with a double bed for two more guests.
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