Ultra luxury: Inside Australia's most expensive hotels
From epic ocean views to private plunge pools, these are some of Australia’s most expensive (and luxurious) hotels.
Park Hyatt Sydney
Panoramic harbour views are the star at this collection of 155 rooms and suites, including three rooftop suites. The wellness facilities, including a spa with five private treatment rooms, a relaxation lounge, steam room, rooftop heated pool, outdoor whirlpool and gymnasium, are a major drawcard for well-heeled guests. Dining options include light fare and beverages in The Bar, all-day dining in The Living Room, and refined menus in The Dining Room by James Viles. A full-service business centre caters to the always-on executive, while a dedicated 24-hour butler service adds to the popularity of this harbourside retreat.
Park Hyatt Sydney, from $1200 a night
Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef
These eco-luxury safari tents elevate the wilderness experience to high-end luxury. They have a safari-style aesthetic with handcrafted beds and “eco” en-suite bathrooms stocked with organic products. Open from March to November, Sal Salis operates on strict sustainability principles with furnishings designed to minimise environmental impact. Rates include gourmet meals (with three-course dinners showcasing local produce), beverages from a select open bar, and complimentary use of kayaks, paddleboards, snorkelling gear and wetsuits. Direct access to the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Ningaloo Reef is a highlight.
Sal Salis, from $1860 a night (King/Twin Wilderness Tent)
The Cape Residence, The Cape at Wategos
Byron Bay’s currency as a luxury destination continues to rise, with properties like The Cape Residence hosting high flyers. This light-filled retreat boasts 180-degree views of Wategos Beach, an infinity pool, multiple decks for whale and dolphin spotting and an interior designed for relaxation. Guests can enjoy a ground-floor ocean suite, three bedrooms, four bathrooms, four televisions, 1.5 kitchens, four decks, a courtyard, and a terrace with a daybed overlooking the beach.
The Cape at Wategos, from $11,000 a night (four guests); $13,300 a night (six guests)
Saffire Freycinet, Tasmania
Voted the World’s Best Boutique Hotel and World’s Best Luxury Hotel, this all-inclusive lodge sits in Freycinet National Park with Wineglass Bay as its backdrop. The 20 designer suites feature king beds and private courtyards, while the resort includes a luxury day spa and a full gym. The restaurant, Palate, offers multi-course degustation menus matched with local wines.
Saffire Freycinet – Private Pavilions with plunge pool from $3800 a night
Qualia, Great Barrier Reef
On Hamilton Island’s secluded northern tip, Qualia is an adults-only retreat with 60 private pavilions. The Windward Pavilions feature infinity-edge plunge pools, while the Leeward Pavilions showcase bushland outlooks and sunset vistas. The Beach House and The Residence offer expansive layouts, private pools and guest pavilions. Guests enjoy spa treatments, access to an 18-hole golf course, a six-course degustation menu at Pebble Beach restaurant and access to the island’s restaurants and activities.
Qualia – year-round two-night package: Windward Pavilion $5980, Leeward $3560.
Capella Sydney
This heritage-listed sandstone building, reimagined in 2023, houses 192 guestrooms and suites alongside a wellness centre and three premium dining options, including the award-winning Brasserie 1930. Fusing art deco style with European sophistication, the hotel features curated art collections, botanical displays and innovative lighting installations. The offering is rounded out by a 20-metre indoor pool, spa, steam room, sauna and Technogym-equipped fitness centre, as well as conference facilities for up to 80 guests.
Capella Sydney, from $700 a night.
Longitude 131, Uluru
Set among red desert dunes and overlooking Uluru, Longitude 131° has 16 tented pavilions that blend comfort and wilderness. Each pavilion features a king bed, a lounge, and balconies with fireplaces. The Dune Pavilion includes expansive decks, a plunge pool and an outback-style bath. Rates include all meals, premium wines and spirits and French champagne. The onsite spa offers treatments featuring Australian botanicals.
Longitude 131: Luxury tents from $4500 a night; Dune Pavilion from $9070 a night.
