The 15 Top Hotels and Lodges in Australia

For every urban hotel we adore in Australia, there exists a luxury lodge that stands as a destination in its own right: a gateway to national parks and some of the planet's most breathtaking natural wonders. This isn’t an exaggeration: Two of our featured hotels and lodges provide exclusive access to the Great Barrier Reef, one is situated beside the world’s oldest rainforest (over 180 million years old), and another offers every visitor a view of the iconic Uluṟu.

This meticulously selected list is part of Dinogo’s Hotels We Love series. We have either visited or consulted locals about each of the locations mentioned below. Presented in no specific order, these are the premier accommodations throughout Australia, whether you’re wandering through cities or venturing into the Outback and islands.

1. Southern Ocean Lodge

When Southern Ocean Lodge debuted in 2008, it marked Kangaroo Island’s first true luxury retreat, perched majestically on limestone cliffs, with guest suites designed to overlook the breathtaking sea. Nestled amid national parks, Southern Ocean Lodge offered guests a direct connection to Australia’s stunning natural beauty. Unfortunately, wildfires in early January 2020 ravaged over half of Kangaroo Island, leaving a charred landscape in their wake, with the lodge suffering significant damage.

As reported by Dinogo’s Katherine LaGrave in her feature on the island, rebuilding efforts began earnestly in February 2022, focusing on sustainability: "The new lodge will consume 25% less energy compared to its predecessor, and diesel usage will be reduced by half. Features will include rainwater harvesting, a hybrid solar-and-battery power system, and elevated boardwalks to protect coastal vegetation. Thoughtful landscaping will provide a protective barrier around the lodge."

In addition to new sustainable initiatives, the lodge will maintain the same layout as the original, with 25 guest rooms strategically repositioned for optimal sea views. The ultra-premium Ocean Pavilion suite will feature up to four bedrooms and bathrooms (or two separate suites), complete with an outdoor terrace and private pool. The main lodge will continue to boast a Great Room featuring a suspended fireplace and a deck with a plunge pool extending towards the ocean. From $2,237, all inclusive

2. Pretty Beach House

Nestled on a promontory in Bouddi National Park, overlooking a tranquil bay and just a short stroll to a secluded rust-red beach, Pretty Beach House perfectly embodies its subtly elegant Australian name. It’s astonishing that this cozy hideaway is only a 90-minute drive from the heart of Sydney. The setting is not only breathtaking but also rich in history—keep an eye out for the ancient Aboriginal rock art nearby during your nature walk.

The property features four guest pavilions, each equipped with wood-burning fireplaces, luxurious clawfoot tubs, and sunny decks that gaze out over Broken Bay and the Angophora treetops (three of which include private plunge pools). Dining is an integral part of the experience and is truly exceptional: Renowned chef Dean Jones transforms freshly caught seafood and local ingredients into modern Australian culinary delights, which you can savor at any time in the Beach House’s stylish dining room or poolside under the shady gum trees. From $2,953 for two nights, all inclusive

3. Capella Sydney

When the luxury hotel group Capella, based in Singapore, launched its Sydney location in March 2023, it marked a new chapter in the city’s luxury scene. The hotel features a marble lobby, a sunlit courtyard adorned with weeping fig trees and a stunning living wall, along with 192 refined rooms equipped with Frette linens and freestanding bathtubs, and an indoor pool surrounded by elegant marble. What truly distinguishes Capella Sydney is its deep connection to the locale. Set within a beautifully restored 1912 sandstone building, complemented by a curated selection of Indigenous art, and staffed by friendly “Culturalists” who share cocktails and stories about the area’s history, Capella uniquely celebrates Sydney’s essence like no other high-end hotel. From $492

4. The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne

It’s intriguing that a culturally rich city like Melbourne lacks a greater selection of true five-star hotels, which makes the arrival of the Ritz-Carlton in 2022 such a significant addition to Australia’s most populous city. The Ritz-Carlton elevates Melbourne’s luxury landscape, quite literally. To locate it, head to the Central Business District and gaze upwards: The hotel occupies the top 17 floors of an 80-story high-rise, making it the tallest hotel in Australia, featuring a Sky Lobby check-in on the highest level.

Among the 257 guest rooms and suites below, stunning views of the city and Port Phillip Bay are plentiful; guests also have the Yarra River just three blocks away for leisurely walks or bike rides. Its prime location is a major advantage, with historic Flinders Street Station, the Immigration Museum, and Queen Vic Market all within a 15-minute stroll. However, many may choose to unwind indoors, indulging in the tranquility of the spa (complete with sauna, gym, yoga area, and infinity pool boasting beautiful views), or exploring over 1,000 pieces of art from 12 different artists displayed throughout the hotel, reflecting the city’s vibrant visual arts culture. Everything, except for a painting by modernist Roger Kemp, is a new commission, including works by First Nation artists. From $311

5. The Jackalope Hotel

Whimsy blends with wine country at the Jackalope, featuring Marie Antoinette-inspired suites, neon-lit corridors, and an eclectic collection of art (including a striking 23-foot sculpture of a jackalope, the hotel’s namesake mythical creature that combines a jackrabbit and an antelope). This unique style is a delightful complement to the otherwise serene and refined Mornington Peninsula, famous for its exquisite pinot noir (which is best enjoyed by the outdoor firepit or from a terrace overlooking the vineyards). But don’t let the quirky decor or the alluring infinity pool distract you; the Jackalope is also a hidden gem for food lovers. Melburnians make the hour-long drive south to savor the innovative Aussie-Asian fusion dishes at Doot Doot Doot, the hotel’s renowned restaurant. This summer’s menu features tea-smoked local chicken and wattleseed chocolate tarts topped with burnt miso ice cream. From $426

6. Qualia

Instead of traveling far north to the crowded tourist destination of Cairns for a glimpse of the Great Barrier Reef, visitors can enjoy a front-row experience of one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders in the Whitsundays, a breathtaking archipelago comprising 74 islands off the Queensland coast. Qualia offers an incredibly secluded and peaceful retreat, situated on a private peninsula on Hamilton Island, the largest of the Whitsundays. Open since 2007, it remains one of Australia’s most iconic coastal getaways.

Qualia features 60 sleek, minimalist pavilions that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor spaces; many come with private plunge pools and unobstructed views of the reef. This is, after all, the main attraction: spend your days snorkeling and diving among vibrant coral and marine life, and your evenings relishing the freshest local seafood at Pebble Beach, Qualia’s modern Australian restaurant. From $2,289 for two nights, all inclusive

7. Lizard Island

Another are you serious?! experience, Lizard Island is the only resort on its namesake island, approximately an hour away by charter flight from Cairns in Tropical North Queensland. With just 40 rooms and 24 private beaches, guests can expect to find their own slice of paradise. Accommodations feature luxurious villas that are well-spaced, ranging from a two-bedroom cliff-top villa with a 26-foot pool and sweeping views of the Coral Sea, to garden-view rooms with private terraces that offer direct access to Anchor Bay beach. Each guest receives their own motorized dinghy, stand-up paddleboards, clear-view sea kayaks, and snorkeling gear to explore giant clam gardens and the vibrant marine life in the area. For the adventurous, private deep-sea dives can be arranged with the Lizard Island Marine and Dive team, ensuring a crowd-free experience on the Great Barrier Reef. From $2,175, includes all meals, unlimited nonalcoholic drinks, and premium Australian wine

8. Silky Oaks Lodge

The Daintree Rainforest, over 180 million years old, has been home to the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people for more than 50,000 years and is rich with diverse wildlife, including buff-breasted paradise kingfishers, musky rat-kangaroos, and bioluminescent fungi. Nestled on 80 acres adjacent to the rainforest in Tropical North Queensland, the newly reimagined Silky Oaks Lodge serves as an eco-conscious sanctuary for travelers eager to explore the world’s oldest forest and its Indigenous cultures. The 40 guest rooms feature tree-house suites with outdoor stone bathtubs and double hammocks; the open-air restaurant and bar serves coconut waffles and three-course lunches amid the sounds of cicadas and flowing rivers. Guests interested in learning about ancient medicinal plants and spotting the vibrant blue Ulysses butterfly can join Aboriginal-owned tour operator Walkabout Cultural Adventures, who share their deep knowledge of the rainforest. From $852

9. The Calile Hotel

Brisbane, Australia’s third-largest city, has transformed significantly from its once ironic nickname “Brisvegas,” a nod to its former dullness. As David Prior noted when selecting the Calile for Dinogo’s 2019 Stay List of top new hotels, “In recent years, this subtropical city adorned with jacaranda trees and tin-and-timber architecture has embraced a wave of sophistication. The Calile, situated in the trendy James Street precinct [Brisbane’s emerging design and dining hub], exemplifies this evolution.”

The 175-room hotel, reminiscent of midcentury Miami and 1960s Australian motels, quickly became a sought-after destination. Its vibrant atmosphere is evident, from the modernist design in calming shades of sage and pistachio to the lively poolside DJ sets that create a festive vibe. Fostering a sense of community, the Calile Culture series hosts esteemed writers like Suzie Miller, the playwright behind the recent Broadway success Prima Facie, for engaging discussions. Dining at the Greek restaurant Hellenika or enjoying a lively lunch at the Lobby Bar is equally invigorating, while the Calile encourages guests to explore nearby gems, such as Jocelyn’s Provisions (affectionately known as just Jocelyn’s to locals), an iconic Brisbane bakery since the 1990s. From $303

10. Longitude 131°

Australian Indigenous groups are among the earliest astronomers, possessing thousands of years of starlore and profound knowledge of the night sky. With minimal urban interference, Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park showcases some of the most expansive skies globally, providing unobstructed views from horizon to horizon. Nestled adjacent to the park, Longitude 131° is a luxurious tented camp that overlooks the Outback's vast, dusty Red Centre, including the iconic monolithic Uluṟu (Ayers Rock) and the domed Kata Tjuṯa formations.

The lodge’s 16 tented pavilions are thoughtfully designed to minimize their impact on the fragile red-dune environment. Each tent features floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing views of Uluṟu, while private outdoor decks include eco-friendly, clean-burning fireplaces and sDinogoi beds for a unique stargazing experience. For those wanting to admire both Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa, the two-bedroom Dune Pavilion suite offers private outdoor stargazing beds and an outdoor plunge pool for soaking under the stars. From $2,480, all inclusive

This lodge was also highlighted in our selection of 10 Hotels Where You Can Go Stargazing.

11. The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel

In 2011, the transformative MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) opened in Hobart's suburbs, elevating the Tasmanian capital to a trendy art-world hub. However, it wasn't until a decade later that the city embraced a design hotel reflecting its newfound status. Enter the Tasman, part of Marriott’s Luxury Collection, which debuted in 2021 with an innovative architectural vision that seamlessly connects an 1841 former hospital, a 1937 art deco building, and a striking new glass annex that dramatically extends toward the harbor.

Instead of disregarding its heritage with uniform interiors, the designers allowed each wing's history to shape its decor: Imagine sandstone details and restored fireplaces in the Georgian wing, ceilings inlaid with blackheart sassafras timber and sleek geometric light fixtures in the deco wing, alongside vibrant contemporary art and ample natural light in the modern extension.

The St. David’s Park Suite offers an exceptional opportunity to experience this blend of history and design, particularly through its stunning Tasmanian blackwood bathtub, crafted by artisan Emanuel Oppliger, who typically creates custom surfboard fins. Additionally, Beauty and the Bees, a Tasmanian eco-friendly hair and skincare brand, has developed a bespoke Leatherwood Honey Cream Bath for this suite. Oppliger’s work is among the many Australian artisanal pieces featured throughout the property, which also showcases creations by botanical quiltmaker and illustrator Ruth de Vos, as well as Aboriginal artist Polly Ngale. From $276. —Nick DeRenzo

This lodge was also included in our list of the 10 Best Hotels for Architecture and Design.

12. Saffire Freycinet

Saffire Freycinet captivates with its breathtaking design, resembling a massive metallic stingray nestled in the untouched wilderness of Freycinet National Park on Tasmania's east coast, just a 2.5-hour drive from Hobart. Inside, Saffire is equally impressive, featuring soaring cathedral ceilings and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the granite peaks and vibrant waters of the famous Wineglass Bay. The lodge offers 20 suites, each equipped with deep soaking tubs, sumptuous king-size beds, and private sun decks—a rare form of luxury in rugged Tasmania. This unique blend of wild adventure and exceptional comfort makes Saffire stand out. Guests can kayak to turquoise coves and hike through ancient forests during the day, then unwind with a glass of Tasmanian bubbles in their private plunge pool. Pure bliss. From $1,966

13. COMO the Treasury

Perth is one of Australia’s best-kept secrets (at least to Americans): This Western Australia gem boasts stunning waterfront views, extensive parks, beautiful beaches, and more sunny days than any other Australian city. Nestled within one of the city’s 19th-century State Buildings is a hidden gem: COMO the Treasury, a chic yet laid-back hotel designed by renowned architect Kerry Hill. Its 48 guest rooms feature a soothing spa-inspired color palette—natural wood and travertine stone tiles—with large windows that invite plenty of sunlight. The Heritage Balcony Rooms offer a view of Cathedral Square, home to St. George’s Cathedral, while some suites provide a glimpse of the Swan River. It serves as a luxurious and central base for exploring the city (don’t miss the spa and the rooftop restaurant, Wildflower, which are also highlights). From $520

14. Sal Salis

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef is a crown jewel of the Coral Coast, accessible via a breathtaking 700-mile road trip north from Perth to Exmouth, showcasing white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. Just beyond lies Ningaloo Marine Park, home to magnificent whale sharks (March–July), manta rays (year-round), and humpback whales (July–September).

At the glamping destination Sal Salis, guests can dive into their own coastal adventures with expert guides who lead sea kayaking, wildlife and bird watching, guided gorge hikes, and (for an extra fee) exhilarating swims with whale sharks. After a day filled with excitement, they can unwind in one of the 16 luxury tents nestled among the sand dunes of Cape Range National Park, with the secluded “honeymoon tent” offering even more privacy. Each tent features a deck or hammock with views of the nearby coastline, as well as eco-friendly ensuite bathrooms stocked with organic shampoo and native herb soap, fresh drinking water, and daily housekeeping. The lodge serves as a communal hub where guests can share stories over sundowners and indulge in three-course dinners. From $1,575 for two nights, all inclusive

15. Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

(Temporarily closed)

Experience the essence of Australia: awaken to the chorus of kookaburras and the rich aroma of eucalyptus, all while kangaroos wander freely across a sprawling 7,000-acre nature reserve. You might feel like you’ve camped under the stars—if it weren’t for the luxurious four-poster bed, the warmth of a crackling fire, and the dawn shimmering off your private pool. Located just three hours west of Sydney, this luxury ecolodge is a tranquil escape, embraced by sandstone cliffs and expansive plains dotted with leafy gumtrees and Wollemi pines. It features 40 homestead-style villas that prioritize eco-friendliness while offering indulgent comforts, utilizing materials sourced within a 60-mile radius, along with solar panels for energy. The culinary offerings highlight Aussie cuisine, mostly sourced within 100 miles of the resort (included in the all-inclusive rate, which also covers a premium minibar), complemented by a fruit orchard and edible garden that provide organic herbs, fruits, and nuts.

A fascinating highlight of the property is an original farmhouse dating back to 1832, where Charles Darwin was hosted in 1836. Today, the homestead serves as a museum that showcases the valley's Indigenous, settler, and agricultural heritage. Guests can engage in a variety of activities that take them beyond the homestead: climb scenic peaks, marvel at glowworms, and enjoy horseback rides. Due to a landslide in 2022, Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley is currently facing access challenges and is temporarily closed.

Additional reporting by Megan Eaves.