From contemporary city escapes to remarkable regional lodgings, there’s plenty to love about the best 5-star hotels in Australia. Tick off bucket-list items and local wonders while dining and drinking your way through some of the country’s favourite destinations in ultimate luxury.
Take a swing on a championship golf course after a day on the Great Ocean Road or go from outback to opulent spa treatments in minutes – it’s all possible when you’re staying at the best 5-star hotels in Australia. We’ve rounded up the must-stay spots across the country, covering beachfront boltholes, desert oases and historical havens, all perfectly located for your next great escape.
Northern Territory
Sails in the Desert
An oasis in Australia’s iconic Red Centre, Sails in the Desert is the epitome of luxury outback living, with 228 beautiful rooms and suites, a shimmering swimming pool shaded by gum trees and plenty of dining options, catering to every taste.
While away an evening at Ilkari Restaurant or learn more about Indigenous cuisine at Walpa Lobby Bar, where dishes are inspired by centuries-old cultures. It’s not all food-focused though – the thought-provoking Mulgara Gallery is the perfect introduction to unique Indigenous art, while the Red Ochre Spa offers an antidote to days spent exploring the harsh landscapes, with a range of sumptuous treatments.
Queensland
Palazzo Versace Gold Coast
As expected from one of the world’s most legendary fashion houses, Palazzo Versace Gold Coast delivers 5-star luxury and glamourous sophistication just seconds from the iconic Queensland shore.
With 200 rooms, condos and suites decked out in Italian marble and Versace furnishings, an award-winning lagoon-style swimming pool, a sensational spa and world-class restaurants, the fashion-inspired hotel has something for everyone. Nowhere is this more obvious than its buffet options: breakfast includes everything from pancakes to scrambled eggs, while the sensational seafood buffet at lunch and dinner is a never-ending spread of straight-from-the-sea king crabs, oysters, prawns and more.
The Star Gold Coast
A self-proclaimed ‘5-star fun-parlour’, The Star Gold Coast is a hedonistic haven for discerning travellers, featuring two distinct-yet-luxurious accommodation options, an indulgent spa, award-winning restaurants and outstanding facilities, including a 24-hour casino. The freshly renovated Star Grand stands proudly on Broadbeach Island, offering 596 refined rooms, an expansive pool and eight dining options. For a little more living space, look to the suites at The Darling, complete with unique finishes and the finest amenities.
Read more: One Night at The Star Grand
The Star Gold Coast, Broadbeach Island, Broadbeach 4218, Queensland, Australia
Pullman Cairns International
Pullman Cairns International delivers tropical luxury from its oceanfront spot in the heart of Tropical North Queensland’s capital. Just minutes from the departure point for Great Barrier Reef ferries, it’s perfectly placed for enjoying all the region has to offer, while remaining conveniently close to the airport.
The 5-star escape puts comfort and convenience at the top of its list, with an award-winning spa, a seafood-focused restaurant and some of the largest rooms in the city. If the Pullman Cairns is unavailable, fear not – its sister hotel, Pullman Reef Hotel Casino, is just across the road and equally impressive, with 5-star rooms and facilities.
Want to treat yourself? Discover our Gold Coast escapes or Cairns hotels
New South Wales
Amora Hotel Jamison, Sydney
Nestled in the heart of Sydney’s CBD sits an unassuming beacon of luxury that’s setting a new standard for the best 5-star hotels in Australia: Amora Hotel Jamison. Just a short walk from Circular Quay, Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, Botanical Gardens and Barangaroo, it’s perfectly located for exploring the best of the Harbour City.
However, you’ll need to get past the hotel’s outstanding facilities first – with two bars and restaurants, a heated indoor swimming pool, Amora day spa, steam room, sauna, jacuzzi, fitness centre and the 31st-floor Jamison Club Lounge, you may never want to leave.
Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney
It’s hard to look past Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney when it comes to the best 5-star hotels in Australia. Found in the former Fairfax and Bank of New South Wales building, the luxury lodging combines the very best heritage features with modern facilities, all just a few minutes from the Sydney Opera House.
Spend your days exploring Sydney’s vibrant CBD, discovering outstanding restaurants and iconic landmarks, before returning to the chic rooms and suites for a peaceful night’s sleep. A fitness centre, spa and onsite dining options, home to a traditional afternoon tea, are the cherries on top.
Planning a trip? Discover our collection of Sydney escapes
Victoria
RACV Torquay Resort, Great Ocean Road and RACV Cape Schanck Resort, Mornington Peninsula
Regional Victoria is home to not one, but two of the very best 5-star coastal retreats: RACV Torquay Resort and RACV Cape Schanck Resort. Perched at the start of the Great Ocean Road, RACV Torquay Resort is perfectly placed for exploring the Surf Coast, all while enjoying its award-winning facilities.
RACV Cape Schanck Resort is just as ideally located, sitting proudly on the southernmost tip of the Mornington Peninsula, close to world-class wineries, beautiful beaches and the rugged landscapes of the region.
Both properties are home to a championship golf course, tranquil spa and remarkable restaurants, getting you into holiday mode almost immediately. Victoria isn’t the only lucky state to enjoy RACV’s exceptional offering: Royal Pines in Noosa is equally as impressive.
The Langham, Melbourne
Stay and play in the middle of Melbourne’s arts and cultural district at The Langham. The 5-star escape couldn’t be any closer to the action thanks to its position on Southbank, but remains a serene sanctuary for guests, with 388 elegant rooms and suites, each with views of the Yarra River and city skyline.
Chuan Spa takes relaxation to a new level, with a suite of body and face treatments inspired by traditional Chinese medicine, while the 15-metre indoor pool, bathed in natural light, is the ideal spot to restore and rejuvenate before hitting the town. You won’t have to go far to find decadent dining: the hotel’s signature restaurant, Melba, offers a brilliant buffet-style experience, with a collection of open and interactive kitchens. Our tip: try the Wedgwood afternoon tea with free-flow bubbles.
The Hotel Windsor, Melbourne
An icon of Melbourne’s CBD, The Hotel Windsor is a masterclass in historic opulence, delivering a 5-star experience within its grand century-old halls. Built in 1883, the heritage-listed property combines original Victorian décor with modern facilities and a central Spring Street location, making it the favoured home-away-from-home for local and international superstars.
Charming rooms and suites have been lovingly restored, as has the dining room, where Australia’s longest continual afternoon tea is served. For breakfast, lunch and dinner, you’ll be spoilt for choice – some of the city’s best cafes and restaurants are just a short stroll away.
Check out the best of Victoria with our collection of escapes
South Australia
The Playford – MGallery by Sofitel, Adelaide
As one of Australia’s most awarded boutique hotels, The Playford – MGallery by Sofitel needs no introduction. Found on Adelaide’s lively North Terrace, the elegant 5-star hotel is an indulgent city escape that’s perfectly located for soaking up the best of the South Australian city.
An Art Nouveau aesthetic flows throughout the hotel, especially in the boutique-style accommodation, where old-world charm is complemented by contemporary comforts. Expect little luxuries like walk-in showers, suites with spa baths and access to the 24-hour health club. The award-winning Playford Restaurant is of an equally high standard, producing European-inspired fare using high-quality local ingredients.
Western Australia
Pan Pacific Perth
Situated in the middle of Perth’s CBD, Pan Pacific Perth is your convenient home-away-from-home, offering everything you might need for an opulent West Australian stay. Rooms and suites look over the Swan River, offering classic style with city conveniences such as high-speed WiFi, marble ensuites and plush bedding. Multiple onsite dining options mean you’ll never go hungry – will it be the Peruvian flavours of Uma Restaurant or the vibrant vegan plates at Ten Acre Block? A sparkling swimming pool, extensive fitness centre and convenient parking mean whatever type of holiday you’re taking, Pan Pacific Perth can cater to your every whim.
ACT
Avenue Hotel Canberra
With 213 stylish,spacious rooms, apartments and suites, Avenue Hotel Canberra is a sensational spot to rest your head in Australia’s capital. Each room includes amenities like king beds, flatscreen TVs, Kevin Murphy toiletries and rainfall showers, while apartments are perfect for longer stays, with full kitchens and separate living spaces. If you don’t fancy cooking, the hotel’s award-winning steakhouse, Marble & Grain, offers a seasonal menu full of local produce, including beef, venison and lamb from their own farm. Located in the centre of the city, adjacent to the popular neighbourhood of Braddon, Avenue Hotel Canberra is 10 minutes from major national attractions, while remaining within walking distance of restaurants, bars and theatres.
