In the last decade, Airbnb accommodations have evolved from simple spots to rest your head into destinations worth travelling for; spaces we might not even want to leave during our stay, and where we might be able to ‘test-drive’ the lifestyles we’ve pinned to our mood boards. This is particularly true in New South Wales, where a new wave of hosts are prioritising architectural integrity and soul over simple square footage.
NSW’s best Airbnbs of 2026
- Best Airbnb in NSW for couples: The Studio on Pokolbin Mountain
- Best Airbnb in NSW for families: The Franklin
- Best pet-friendly Airbnb in NSW: Practice Ground
- Best Airbnb in NSW with a pool: Hilltop Cabin
- Most unique Airbnb in NSW: The Salty Dog in Newport
- Best luxury Airbnb in NSW: The Ridge in Nelson Bay
- Best Airbnb in Byron Bay: Joints In Byron, Saint Helena
- Best Airbnb in Sydney CBD: Stunning Potts Point Apartment
These days, you can find an abundance of design-forward stays across the state. From the sun-bleached shores of the South Coast to the rolling, vine-laced hills of the Hunter Valley, and even tucked into the heart of Sydney with front-row seats to the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, there’s a retreat for every aesthetic. Many of these homes celebrate the art of slow living, where every architectural angle is designed to frame a view, and every ceramic mug feels intentional.
So pack your bags (and your camera) – we’ve rounded up the dreamiest NSW retreats that offer as much interior inspiration as they do relaxation.
You might also like: The best Australian beach houses
The best Airbnb in NSW for couples
01
The Studio on Pokolbin Mountain
Studio in Pokolbin
Sleeps: 2 people
Nestled right in the heart of the Hunter Valley wine region and surrounded by fields of lavender, The Studio on Pokolbin Mountain is the most idyllic spot in New South Wales for a romantic getaway. Previously used as an artist’s studio, this stay, which ranks in the top 1% of homes on Airbnb, is surrounded by wildlife, walks, and stunning scenery to enjoy with your nearest and dearest. And if it’s booked on your chosen dates, worry not; a second and equally well-loved cottage also sits on the property: Amelies On Pokolbin Mountain.
Our top tip? Book between March and September when the lavender is in bloom.
Location: Pokolbin, NSW
Distance from Sydney: 2 hours
Best Airbnb in NSW for families
02
The Franklin
Entire home in Pokoblin
Sleeps: 6 people
For a slightly unconventional (but still deliciously luxurious) stay, opt for The Franklin, a thoughtfully converted and re-designed Airbnb that’s perfect for your next family getaway. Sleeping up to 6 and boasting 2 bathrooms, it’s roomy enough to give every holidaymaker the space they need while still offering the ideal setting for some bonding moments.
Currently sporting a perfect 5-star rating on Airbnb, it’s a stay you can feel confident booking. Just ask this one reviewer, who says, “What a stunning stay at the Station! The Franklin was a great spot-the aesthetic was stunning, mixing a 100-year-old train with modern amenities with such style. The beds were super comfy, and the place was spotless. We’d definitely be back to stay again, thank you for a great weekend!”
Location: Pokoblin, NSW
Distance from Sydney: 2 hours
Best pet-friendly Airbnb in NSW
03
Practice Ground
Entire home in Glen Davis
Sleeps: 4 people
Tucked away in the dramatic sandstone escarpments of Capertee Valley, Practice Ground is one of New South Wales’ most captivating countryside retreats, and it’s pet-friendly, too. Ranked as a top-rated Airbnb in the region’s top 5 % of stays, this architect-designed haven blends modern comforts with breathtaking natural beauty. From the moment you pull up, you’re welcomed by sweeping valley views that stretch all the way to the World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park; a paradise for bushwalking, birdwatching and pure tranquillity.
Trust us, this is an Airbnb worth planning a whole vacation around.
Location: Glen Davis, NSW
Distance from Sydney: 3 hours
Best Airbnb in NSW with an outdoor pool
04
Hilltop Cabin
Entire house in Kanimbla
Sleeps: 2 people
Set high above the sweeping cloaks of eucalyptus and valley treetops, this Hilltop Cabin is pure Blue Mountains magic captured in a boutique cabin. Perched at the edge of a rugged escarpment in Kanimbla, New South Wales, this intimate two-guest hideaway pairs minimalist design with big-nature drama for an unforgettable romantic escape.
Outside, sip your morning coffee or a glass of local wine beside your private plunge pool as the valley stretches toward the horizon. A cargo-net hammock whispers invitations to slow down, and a freestanding stone bathtub offers the perfect perch for starlit soaks surrounded by quiet and birdsong. Just a short drive from Blue Mountains National Park, this superhost-rated cabin is a sanctuary for couples who crave privacy, luxe simplicity, and panoramas that feel sculpted for the soul.
Location: Kanimbla, NSW
Distance from Sydney: 2 hours
Most unique Airbnb in NSW
05
The Salty Dog
Houseboat in Newport
Sleeps: 2 people
Moor your cares at The Salty Dog, a lovingly restored houseboat that floats gently on the rippling waters of Pittwater in Newport. Perfect for couples or anyone craving a waterfront escape with something truly different, this intimate boathouse retreat feels like a secret hideaway kissed by salt spray and sunbeams.
Everything about this stay invites slow rhythms. A well-appointed kitchenette and cosy living area make simple meals feel like feasts, while the included continental breakfast hamper sets you up for exploring Newport’s charming village cafes and sandy beaches. Superhost-acclaimed and nestled in one of NSW’s most scenic coastal enclaves, The Salty Dog is a salty-air serenade for anyone looking for something a little different.
Location: Newport, NSW
Distance from Sydney: 1 hour
Best luxury Airbnb in NSW
06
The Ridge
Entire home in Nelson Bay
Sleeps: 14 people
Rising above the cerulean sweep of Port Stephens, The Ridge is a sprawling coastal retreat that’s the perfect luxe setting for family gatherings, group getaways or milestone celebrations. And when you’re not lounging by the pool, days can be spent exploring nearby beaches and bushland, teeing off at local golf courses or wandering the lively waterfront precinct of Nelson Bay with its cafes, galleries and seafood restaurants.
With room for up to 14 guests across seven beautifully appointed bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms, there’s a thoughtful balance here between shared moments and private retreats. Light floods through expansive windows, while breezy indoor-outdoor flow sets the tone for long lunches on the terrace, sunset cocktails by the pool and stories around the fire pit as the stars come out.
Location: Nelson Bay
Distance from Sydney: 2 hours 40 minutes
Best Airbnb in Byron Bay
07
Joints In Byron, Saint Helena
Entire guesthouse in Byron Bay
Sleeps: 2 people
Joints in Byron is a breezy, design-savvy studio retreat nestled in the heart of Byron Bay, New South Wales and perfect for couples or solo travellers craving a stylish base for coastal adventures. Set just moments from the town’s eclectic cafes, iconic beaches and vibrant art scene, this beautifully curated guesthouse feels like a boutique hideaway with the best of Byron at your doorstep.
Inside, the space unfolds like a modern sanctuary. Plastered curves, artisanal finishes and thoughtful lighting cultivate a calm, sunlit interior that’s both intimate and uplifting. Floor-to-ceiling windows let daylight dance across the room, while a well-appointed kitchen and luxe rain shower bring everyday comfort into the realm of boutique cool.
Hosted by a seasoned Superhost with years of rave reviews, Joints in Byron marries laid-back coastal living with thoughtful design, making it an unforgettable base for exploring one of NSW’s most cherished beach towns.
Location: Byron Bay
Distance from Sydney: 8 hours
Best Airbnb in Sydney
08
Stunning Potts Point Apartment
Entire apartment in Potts Point, Sydney
Sleeps: 2 people
Tucked into one of Sydney’s most glamorous inner-city enclaves, this stunning Potts Point apartment delivers big style in a beautifully compact footprint. Set within a classic Art Deco building just moments from the harbour, it’s the kind of stay that lets you live like a local while soaking up the suburb’s unmistakable Paris-meets-Sydney charm.
The apartment balances timeless character with modern ease. Think soaring ceilings, generous windows that invite natural light to pour in, and a calm, neutral palette that makes the space feel both polished and welcoming. Thoughtful touches throughout ensure it’s perfectly suited to couples or solo travellers seeking a refined city base.
Location: Potts Point, Sydney
Distance from Sydney: Central
Plan the perfect summer vacation in NSW
We highly recommend opting for an Airbnb for your next holiday accommodation; they’re often much more affordable than hotels, and offer more value for money. What’s more, Airbnb’s extensive accommodation options allow travellers to find options that suit their unique preferences, rather than being confined to city destinations with large hotel chains.
With Airbnb, guests can book a farmhouse with friendly cows and alpacas, an elaborate mansion, a minimalist tiny house, a cabin by their favourite fishing spot, and many other niche stays. By finding the right one, travellers can make the place they stay a part of their overall experience, rather than choosing a generic hotel room as their base.
When choosing an Airbnb in New South Wales, location is key, whether that’s walking distance to a beach, tucked into wine country, or perched near a national park.
Beyond setting, look for thoughtful amenities that elevate the stay, such as outdoor entertaining areas, fireplaces, pools or designer interiors. Reviews are invaluable for gauging cleanliness, comfort and host responsiveness, while small details like parking, heating and air conditioning can make a big difference depending on the season and region.
The South Coast remains a firm favourite for beach lovers, while the Blue Mountains draw visitors year-round for their dramatic scenery and cosy stays. Byron Bay and the North Coast continue to attract those seeking laid-back luxury, while Hunter Valley is a go-to for wine escapes. Sydney’s inner-city suburbs and harbour-side stays are also increasingly popular for weekend breaks and staycations.
NSW is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re after. Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are ideal for mild weather, fewer crowds and outdoor exploring. Summer is perfect for coastal escapes and poolside stays, while winter shines in the mountains and countryside, where fireplaces, misty mornings and cosy cabins take centre stage.
It all comes down to your travel style:
For romantic getaways: The Hunter Valley, Blue Mountains, and secluded South Coast towns offer vineyard views, fireplaces and peaceful surrounds.
For families: The Central Coast, Jervis Bay, and Port Stephens balance beautiful beaches with calm waters and family-friendly attractions.
For nature lovers: The Snowy Mountains, Wollemi National Park, and NSW’s many hinterland regions are ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting and switching off.
For food and culture enthusiasts: Sydney’s inner suburbs and Byron Bay deliver standout dining, markets and creative energy.
For design lovers: Look to architect-designed stays in the Blue Mountains, Northern Rivers and coastal NSW, where style and scenery go hand in hand.
