01 The Best 50 · 2026

Swell Hotel Byron Bay

Byron Bay, NSW

A reimagined former beach motel in central Byron Bay, the Swell is an adults-only hotel of 16 rooms with a 1970s-inspired palette and tropical gardens. A mineral pool, infrared sauna, ice bath and treatment room lean the stay toward wellness, and a welcome drink and yoga in the tipi are included.

What makes it

  • Mineral pool
  • Infrared sauna
  • Ice bath
  • Treatment room
  • Tropical gardens

The vibe

1970s Adults only Design Pool & palms