From Sydney’s beaches to Adelaide’s city fringe, a new wave of high-end hotels is creating a buzz across Australia. Here are eight new and yet-to-open local luxury properties you need on your radar.
With headline-grabbing debuts from renowned luxury hotel brands to art- and wellness-focused boutique stays, these eight properties promise elevated stays across Australia’s most in-demand destinations.
Este Wategos, Byron Bay
Now open
Byron Bay’s newest ultra-premium property, Este Wategos, opened recently at arguably one of the East Coast’s most coveted beach addresses.
Taking inspiration from the philosophy of “prescribing nature” for mental and physical wellbeing, and Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater (a Pennsylvanian property partially constructed over a waterfall), Este Wategos is built into the craggy hillside beneath the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse.
Este North and Este South are two three-level properties with privacy, space, and discreet service key features. Guests can book either property or both, accommodating up to 16 guests. Each has a rooftop terrace and a glass-bottomed pool overlooking Wategos Beach and Cape Bryon State Conservation Park.
Hannah St Hotel
December 2025
Melbourne is about to welcome a new boutique property only minutes from the Melbourne Arts Precinct. Opening this December, the five-star property is attracting attention for its “living gallery” aesthetics, with bespoke artwork across common areas.
Hannah St’s triangular build is reminiscent of New York City’s Flatiron Building, while the “modern nostalgia” interiors set a sophisticated tone. Each of the 188 rooms and suites features custom furniture from renowned interior architect David Flack.
Co-working spaces, a podcast studio, and rooftop terrace will likely be a hit for visitors and locals alike. Hannah St guests have exclusive use of the stylish black-and-white lap pool, steam room, sauna, and gym.
Elysium Noosa Resort
Q4 2025
Steps from Noosa Beach and the national park, Elysium Noosa Resort will be the sole five-star property on Noosa’s famed Hastings Street.
The result of a top-to-toe refurbishment and rebrand of the former Sofitel Noosa, Elysium Noosa Resort sits in Accor’s MGallery Collection. The 175 rooms and suites have been modernised with “light, coastal tones and natural textures”.
Opening in December, Elysium’s Wellness Suites will be a Sunshine Coast standout; each has a private infrared sauna and terraced spa, complemented by in-room wellness rituals.
Celebrated Sydney restaurateurs Alessandro and Anna Pavoni bring their Italian dining experience, Cibaria, to the revamped property, accompanying Elysium’s new Bar Capri.
InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach
Q4 2025
In time for summer, InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach is one of few luxury beachfront hotels close to the city centre. Each of the 198 rooms and 22 suites has floor-to-ceiling windows and coastal décor reflective of its Coogee Beach location.
Shutters Restaurant and Bar will serve Australian-Mediterranean fusion dishes, while Rick Stein at Coogee Beach will bring the celebrity chef’s seaside dining to Sydney’s Eastern suburbs.
From March 2026, phase two will unveil the luxury hotel’s leisure facilities, including an ocean-facing infinity-edge pool, poolside bar, state-of-the-art wellness facilities, and event terrace.
Crystalbrook Sam, Adelaide
Q1 2026
The latest in the Crystalbrook Collection, Crystalbrook Sam, is set to open in early 2026. Close to Adelaide Central Market, this 13-storey property is a welcome addition to Adelaide’s city fringe, bringing a rare full destination spa to the CBD.
Alongside Adelaide Hills views, the Rooftop Eléme Day Spa will offer restorative treatments, including the signature Autograph of Eléme relaxation massage.
Along with 206 rooms, the sustainable-led property will have restaurants and bars focused on using local produce, in keeping with Adelaide’s reputation as a leading food and wine destination.
Andaz Gold Coast
Q2 2026
The Gold Coast is Australia’s debut location for Andaz by Hyatt, known for its portfolio of properties featuring unique architecture, interior design, and local artwork.
Located on floors six to 21 of The Star Gold Coast resort complex, this 202-room luxury property is gearing up to be Broadbeach’s most lifestyle-focused offering with “Chase the Sun” interior design inspired by Andez Gold Coast’s position between the hinterland and the ocean.
Andaz Gold Coast promises a strong focus on food and beverage across three dining venues, including a signature Mediterranean establishment. A sixth-floor pool deck and bar, beach club with private cabanas, and the signature all-day Andaz Lounge round out the offering.
Waldorf Astoria Sydney
Q4 2026
Australia’s first Waldorf Astoria hotel is set to open in Circular Quay in late 2026. With 227 rooms and suites over 26 floors, guests can enjoy a rooftop bar, full-service spa, and ballroom with uninterrupted views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House.
The hotel is promising food and beverage options, “showcasing Australia’s finest produce, artists, and creators.”
The brand’s Sydney debut also features Peacock Alley – Waldorf Astoria’s signature gathering place.
The Ritz-Carlton, Gold Coast
Q4 2026
Adding to the Ritz-Carlton’s Melbourne and Perth portfolio, the luxury chain will open a low-rise waterfront hotel in Main Beach by late 2026.
Along with 157 suites, the luxury property’s superyacht marina will be an Australian hotel first. Guests can arrive at the Ritz-Carlton by car, boat, or helicopter.
Located in the most exclusive neighbourhood in the northern end of the Gold Coast, guests will enjoy a rooftop pool terrace, upscale dining, marina-facing bars, and a premium retail precinct. The Ritz-Carlton signature spa will be an additional draw.
The Ritz-Carlton Gold Coast is part of the growing number of luxury hotel builds looking to capitalise on the region’s burgeoning popularity and the upcoming Brisbane 2032 Olympics.
For more information, visit Este Wategos, Hannah St Hotel, Elysium Noosa Resort, InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach, Crystalbrook Sam, Andaz Gold Coast, Waldorf Astoria Sydney, The Ritz-Carlton Gold Coast.
