10 best resorts in Australia for luxury escapes in 2025

Ideal for: High-end wilderness fans

Lining a limestone clifftop on Kangaroo Island’s remote south-west coast with only ocean between it and Antarctica, Southern Ocean Lodge has returned more luxurious and unique than ever after its recent rebuild post-2020 bushfires. The service is relaxed and casual but with an impressively sharp eye for detail and versatility; all meals, included in the tariff, are created using local produce, much of it fished from the surrounding ocean; and each room boasts expansive views, a freestanding tub and cosy fireplace.

Why we love it: 

• The location. Southern Ocean Lodge has a true sense of privacy and isolation.
• The excursions. Choose from close encounters with wildlife on ‘Australia’s Galapagos’ to beach fishing or gourmet experiences.
• The spa. The Southern Spa boasts hot and cold plunge pools and a sheltered sun terrace.

Ideal for: Active luxurians and nature lovers

This glam eco-lodge on 32 hectares of rainforest on Kuku Yalanji Country sets the standard for immersive, nature-based luxury. The 180-million-year-old Daintree is rightfully the star here, as is the crystal-clear Mossman River that drifts through the property. Riverside rooms and airy treehouses delight with their refined aesthetic, generous bathrooms and swinging hammocks.

Why we love it: 

• The design. The brilliant open-air plan of Silky Oaks Lodge sets guests among the trees. 
• The decks. The private outdoor decks have freestanding stone bathtubs. Magical. 
• Signature experiences. From snorkelling in the Mossman River to e-bike exploration of country roads, there’s plenty to do. 

Ideal for: Tranquil romantic getaways where nature calls 

Located on the northernmost section of the Great Barrier Reef, this inimitable resort sets the standard for barefoot luxury. Where else can you step onto a pristine beach, snap on a snorkel and swim out mere metres to float over giant clam gardens, green sea turtles and technicolour coral reefs? No wonder it’s one of the best resorts in Australia.

Why we love it: 

• Great Barrier Reef adventures. From world-class snorkelling and diving to glass-bottomed kayaks gliding over vibrant coral, oceanic exploration awaits. 
• Ultimate seclusion. Still and serene, Lizard Island Resort charms with its remote location and laid-back approach to luxury.
• Essentia Day Spa. The fact the spa is this good and this far away from the world is not to be taken for granted.  

Ideal for: Stylish celebrations and memorable milestones

Resort or boutique hotel? With its recent expansion across the road with Raes Guesthouses, the famed Byron Bay hotel falls into both categories — and nails it. Guests of both properties have access to shared facilities, including Raes Dining Room, Cellar Bar and the crypt-like splendour of Raes Spa. 

Why we love it: 

• The vibe. Raes is bright, breezy, bohemian and yet impossibly chic.
• The spa. Entering the spa is like stepping into a hidden chapel, with Rationale products lining the altar. 
• The location. The hotel overlooks the picturesque Wategos Beach, where dolphins regularly frolick in the surf.

Ideal for: Barefoot luxurians

Set in Queensland’s Whitsundays, Qualia is one of Australia’s most luxurious resorts. Offering 60 individual indoor-outdoor pavilions and impeccable amenities, the resort is a favourite for big-name stars seeking a slice of quiet luxury in an eco-friendly bush-meets-beach setting. Rooms feature breezy louvered windows overlooking discreet sundecks shaded by eucalyptus trees, while a fleet of groomed resort staff accommodate every whim.

Why we love it: 

• The location. It feels like a remote island getaway, but is easily accessible from major cities via Hamilton Island Airport.  
• The mirror-flat pool on Pebble Beach serving up quintessential Whitsunday vistas is surely one of Australia’s best swimming spots.    
• The golf buggies. These come standard with every room.

Ideal for: Sexy seclusions and gourmet gatherings with friends

Inspired by the humble Tasmanian beach shack, this striking, stingray-shaped complex and satellite suites, situated on the shore of unspoiled Coles Bay and with uninterrupted views of the spectacular Hazards Mountains, connects the lodge sympathetically to the bush, the abundant wildlife, and famous white-sand beaches such as Wineglass Bay.   

Why we love it: 

• The location. Views that rival Uluru and the accessibility to beaches, bushwalks, wineries and farms, make Saffire Freycinet one of Australia’s premier destinations.    
• The Tasmanian devils. Saffire is doing wonderful work in helping rescue this endangered icon, and the one-hectare, free-range devil enclosure on the property is one of the best ways to see these feisty creatures.
• The signature experiences. From beekeeping, oyster farm visits and distillery tastings to an entrancing Connection to Country Indigenous beach and bush walk.  

Ideal for: A tropical beachside getaway

A luxurious tropical getaway in the Whitsunday Islands, Intercontinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef has played an intrinsic role in setting the standard for Australian coastal luxury since opening in 1950. The glamorous Hayman Pool lays claim to the largest in Australia and continues to dazzle on Instagram. The addition of a beachfront infinity pool and private pavilions ensures the island paradise remains at the forefront of modern resort luxury, while retaining its original charm. 

Why we love it: 

• The pool. Once known as the Hollywood Pool, today it has its own trademark as the Hayman Pool. If that’s not iconic, we don’t know what is.  
• The location. Floating in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, it offers direct access to some of nature’s most breathtaking sights.
• The arrival. Accessible only by private boat or helicopter, your Hayman escape begins before you arrive and promises to impress.  

Ideal for: Family getaways and romantic escapes

One of the newest additions to Gold Coast’s hotel scene stands out as its most sophisticated. The Langham Gold Coast has 17 room types on offer, ranging from well-priced superior rooms to expansive suites, all with either hinterland or ocean views. The warm, professional and prompt staff are available 24/7 and a meal at T’ang Court, the jewel in the Langham Group’s culinary crown, is a must.

Why we love it: 

• The sunrises. If your room faces the ocean, you’ll wake to stunning sunrises over the water. The way the light hits the balcony is magical.
• It’s family-friendly. There’s a kids club on level two, plus a roster of activities during school holidays. 
• The lagoon pool. Overlooking the ocean, the lagoon-style pool is a popular hub.

Ideal for: Romantic weekends and reconnecting with nature

Named for the 200-year-old redwood trees that flank the property, this elegant sanctuary in the Adelaide Hills is reserved for adults over 18. The vibe is exclusivity and privacy, with bespoke experiences designed to reconnect guests to the natural environment, teamed with the conviviality of a lodge where they can mingle in stylish sunken lounges, warmed by fireplaces.   

Why we love it: 

• The views. Lying in bed and watching sunrise over the Piccadilly Valley is something special.
• The hot springs. Eating an icy pole while relaxing in the artesian-fed hot spring pools is a must.  
• The guided nature walks. Take a hike along along the Heysen Trail, home of the largest remaining koala population in the world.

Ideal for: A fun, tropical-style getaway for couples or families

Located in the heart of Surfers Paradise, the JW Marriott Resort & Spa offers a polished, family-friendly base for exploring the Gold Coast. The resort combines tropical landscaping with thoughtful design, featuring a saltwater lagoon complete with fish for snorkelling. While it delivers the comfort and service expected of a five-star hotel, the vibe is laid-back and relaxed.

Why we love it: 

• The lagoon pool. There are multiple pools to choose from but this one comes with golden sand and bubbling water, plus a little waterfall and table service.
• The location. There are plenty of fun little bars and restaurants within walking distance, and Sea World is just a short drive away.
• The spa. Spacious and luxurious, it features six treatment rooms including a signature couple’s room with ensuite stone bath and twin showers.

All winners in the Gourmet Traveller Hotel and Travel Awards have been determined via an esteemed panel of industry experts, including Goumet Traveller editor Joanna Hunkin and seasoned travel contributors Michael Harden, Lee Tulloch, Alexandra Carlton and more. Led by Hunkin, the judges and an expert team of critics also reviewed and endorsed more than 50 hotels across Australia to deliver the Gourmet Traveller Hotel Guide.

How we pick the Gourmet Traveller Hotel and Travel Awards winners