Terania Creek, Nightcap National ParkCredit: Destination NSW
Scenic drive through the World-Heritage listed rainforest inside Nightcap National Park.
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Northern New South Wales is home to the most extensive areas of subtropical rainforest in the world, and one of the best ways to experience these verdant green spaces is to check into a hotel or guesthouse nestled in nature. Here are five lush rainforest retreats to add to your wish list.
Loggers Cabin, Dorroughby
On the edge of Nightcap National Park, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, Loggers Cabin is the ultimate off-grid rainforest escape. Just 45 minutes’ drive west of Byron Bay, the cosy solar-powered studio cabin in the small hinterland community of Dorroughby makes the perfect base for exploring the national park, with the 100m-high Minyon Falls just 5km down the road. Bring your own food to cook or pre-order a hearty meal to heat over the fire pit. Travelling in a group? There’s also a two-bedroom Queenslander-style cottage on the property.
Mavis’s Cabins, Uki
Located at the gateway to Wollumbin National Park, between Murwillumbah and Uki in the Tweed hinterland, Mavis’s is a former dairy farm surrounded by rainforest, a stunning base for their eco-friendly B&B cabin accommodation. Whether you choose the tastefully furnished Farmhouse, Log Cabin, Old Dairy or Studio 34, you’re in for a treat if a getaway.
Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat, Upper Crystal Creek
Surrounded by the Numinbah Nature Reserve, just a kilometre from NSW’s northern border and a 70-minute drive west of Tweed Heads, Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat is a real find. This luxurious couples-only retreat offers a range of accommodation options, including gorgeous studio lodges with fireplaces and private plunge pools. Spend your day exploring the 8km of walking trails on the property before a cosy night in by the fireplace with a gourmet meal delivered to your bungalow (or you can cook your own). After nightfall, follow the creek to the glow worm site and marvel at this dazzling natural wonder.
Nightcap National Park, Nightcap Credit: Lismore City Council
Couple enjoying a walk through the rainforest in Nightcap National Park, Nightcap.
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Nightcap National Park, Nightcap Credit: Lismore City Council
Couple enjoying a walk through the rainforest in Nightcap National Park, Nightcap.
Mavis's Kitchen, Mount Warning Credit: Destination NSW
Kitchen garden at Mavis's Kitchen restaurant and accommodation, Mount Warning.
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Mavis's Kitchen, Mount Warning Credit: Destination NSW
Kitchen garden at Mavis's Kitchen restaurant and accommodation, Mount Warning.
The Byron at Byron, Byron Bay
Refreshed by its new owners, Crystalbrook Collection Hotels, in 2020, the Byron at Byron boutique hotel is nestled in a verdant swath of subtropical rainforest on the southern edge of holiday haven, Byron Bay. All 92 suites look out onto the rainforest, and a boardwalk through the greenery leads you to beautiful Tallow Beach. Rainforest healing is integrated into treatments at the onsite Eléme Spa, and in a nod to its setting, the on-site restaurant — which celebrates sustainable local produce — is called Forest.
Mistere, Urlip
A secluded sanctuary in the Tweed hinterland, less than 10 minutes’ drive from Murwillumbah, Mistere is a collection of three luxurious one-bedroom villas with earthy hues and wide windows that help you to reconnect with the natural world. Explore local walking trails, sink into a bubble bath, relax by the fireplace or meditate in the Zen garden to a soundtrack of rainforest birdsong.
Crystalbrook Byron, Byron Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Accommodation set in a sub-tropical forest at Crystalbrook Byron, Byron Bay.
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Crystalbrook Byron, Byron Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Accommodation set in a sub-tropical forest at Crystalbrook Byron, Byron Bay.
More Inspirational Stories
The Library Bar, SydneyCredit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying drinks at the Library Bar, located on the rooftop of the State Library of NSW.
Sydney is a city that dazzles from every angle, but there’s something extra special about enjoying a drink with a view from above. Whether you're gazing at the glittering harbour, soaking up beachside vibes, or catching a sunset over the mountains, these rooftop bars offer the perfect perch for summer travellers. Here are the top spots to sip and savour the city skyline.
Rooftop Bars in the Heart of Sydney
Sydney’s city centre is a treasure trove of rooftop bars that blend urban energy with sweeping vistas. From hidden gems above heritage buildings to luxe lounges perched high above the skyline, these venues offer the perfect escape from the bustling streets below. Whether you're after a sunset cocktail or a late-night vibe, these rooftops deliver unforgettable views of the harbour and iconic landmarks.
Library Bar – The Domain
Great for: Hidden city views and local spirits
Tucked atop the historic State Library of NSW, Library Bar is a local secret with panoramic views of the Domain and Sydney Harbour. Accessed via a hidden entrance on Hospital Road, this rooftop gem serves cocktails made with local spirits and Hunter Valley wines. Keep an eye out for Fresh Takes, a seasonal series of live poetry and storytelling nights.
Aster Bar – Circular Quay
Great for: Luxury vibes and iconic views
Located on the 32nd floor of the InterContinental Sydney, Aster Bar offers 270-degree views of the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney Opera House, and Harbour Bridge. The celestial-themed cocktails and velvet lounge setting make it a refined spot for sunset martinis and sky-high indulgence.
Untied – Barangaroo
Great for: Tropical cocktails and vegan bites
This vibrant rooftop oasis in Barangaroo is all about colour and flavour. With a menu full of fusion plates and plant-based options, Untied is perfect for casual catchups. Saturdays bring bottomless brunches with live entertainment and Southern-style food, all set against waterfront views.
Smoke Bar – Barangaroo
Great for: Sunset sessions and DJ sets
Perched atop Barangaroo House, Smoke Bar is a sleek, stylish venue with sweeping views over Darling Harbour. The cocktail list is inventive, the wine selection curated by sommeliers, and the vibe elevated by DJs spinning from Thursday to Sunday.
JOJI – CBD
Great for: Late-night bites and beats
JOJI is where Sydney’s nightlife meets Japanese flair. This restaurant-bar-club hybrid serves up Japanese burgers by award-winning chef Paul Farag, cocktails inspired by Tokyo’s bar scene, and DJ sets that keep the energy going until 2am.
Harper Rooftop Bar – CBD
Great for: Poolside luxury and summery bites
Above the Kimpton Margot Hotel, Harpers is one of Sydney’s largest open-air rooftop bars. With a poolside setting and a menu by renowned chef Luke Mangan, it’s a chic spot to unwind with seasonal dishes and refreshing drinks.
Harper Rooftop Bar Credit: Dexter Kim
Perched high above the CBD on Level 7 of Kimpton Margot Sydney, Harper Rooftop Bar is a sprawling retreat designed by FiveFootDesign.
Harper Rooftop Bar Credit: Dexter Kim
Perched high above the CBD on Level 7 of Kimpton Margot Sydney, Harper Rooftop Bar is a sprawling retreat designed by FiveFootDesign.
Smoke Bar in Barangaroo Credit: Destination NSW
Perched atop Barangaroo House, Smoke Bar is a sleek rooftop destination offering panoramic harbour views, inventive cocktails, and a curated menu of elevated snacks and share plates. With live DJs and a sunset-ready vibe, it’s the perfect spot for Golden Hour—grab a drink, watch the sun dip over the water, and settle in for a stylish night out in the heart of Sydney.
Smoke Bar in Barangaroo Credit: Destination NSW
Perched atop Barangaroo House, Smoke Bar is a sleek rooftop destination offering panoramic harbour views, inventive cocktails, and a curated menu of elevated snacks and share plates. With live DJs and a sunset-ready vibe, it’s the perfect spot for Golden Hour—grab a drink, watch the sun dip over the water, and settle in for a stylish night out in the heart of Sydney.
Rooftop Bars by the Sea
For those chasing ocean breezes and coastal charm, Sydney’s beachside rooftop bars are a must. These venues serve up laid-back vibes, fresh seafood, and panoramic views of the Pacific. Perfect for post-swim drinks or golden hour gatherings, these rooftops capture the essence of Sydney’s summer lifestyle.
Coogee Pavilion – Coogee
Great for: Ocean views and Middle Eastern flavours
Just steps from the beach, Coogee Pavilion’s rooftop terrace offers unbeatable views of the Pacific. With four bars surrounded by lush greenery, it’s a breezy, beachside escape. The food leans Mediterranean, perfect for post-swim feasting.
Bombies – Freshwater
Great for: Surf culture and live music
Bombies is a laid-back rooftop bar inspired by the golden era of surf culture. Overlooking Freshwater Beach, it’s a nostalgic nod to the area’s history, serving tropical cocktails, coastal eats, and live music in a relaxed, retro setting.
Bombies rooftop bar in Freshwater Credit: Destination NSW
Freshwater’s iconic Harbord Hotel is raising the bar with the debut of Bombies – a 70s-inspired rooftop barand music venue that captures the spirit of surf culture’s golden era. This sun-drenched oceanfront bar evokesthe laid-back energy of a beach house party, set against the stunning backdrop of Freshwater Beach.
Bombies rooftop bar in Freshwater Credit: Destination NSW
Freshwater’s iconic Harbord Hotel is raising the bar with the debut of Bombies – a 70s-inspired rooftop barand music venue that captures the spirit of surf culture’s golden era. This sun-drenched oceanfront bar evokesthe laid-back energy of a beach house party, set against the stunning backdrop of Freshwater Beach.
SOCIAL MEDIA 1:1 - Coogee Beach, Coogee Credit: Destination NSW
Afternoon sun shining over Coogee Beach, Coogee.
SOCIAL MEDIA 1:1 - Coogee Beach, Coogee Credit: Destination NSW
Afternoon sun shining over Coogee Beach, Coogee.
Rooftop Bars with a Different Perspective
Beyond the city and coast, Western Sydney offers a fresh take on rooftop culture. These elevated venues combine stylish design, diverse menus, and sweeping views, from the skyline to the Blue Mountains. Whether you're in Penrith, Oran Park or Bankstown, these bars bring a vibrant, local flavour to your summer nights.
Theo’s Rooftop Bar – Penrith
Great for: Mountain sunsets and Mediterranean vibes
Located atop Astina Suites in Western Sydney, Theo’s offers a surprising escape with views of the Blue Mountains. The menu features Mediterranean-inspired dishes like saffron prawn linguine and wagyu sliders, perfect for sunset sipping.
Jinja Rooftop Bar – Oran Park
Great for: Asian fusion and fire pit ambience
Jinja brings a stylish, adults-only vibe to Western Sydney with panoramic views, plush seating, and fire pits. The Asian-inspired menu includes dumplings, bao, and lobster toast, paired with expertly crafted cocktails. Open Thursday to Sunday.
Lady Banks Rooftop Bar – Bankstown
Great for: Skyline views and elegant design
Lady Banks offers 360-degree views from the Sydney skyline to the Blue Mountains. Inspired by the Lady Banks rose, this rooftop bar blends modern flair with botanical elegance. It’s a standout destination for cocktails and sunset selfies.
Whether you're beach-bound, city-hopping, or exploring Sydney’s west, these rooftop bars offer the perfect mix of atmosphere, flavour, and unforgettable views. Cheers to summer in one of the world’s most beautiful cities!
Theo’s Rooftop Bar, Penrith Credit: Destination NSW
Friends relax by the pool at Theo’s Rooftop Bar, Penrith
Theo’s Rooftop Bar, Penrith Credit: Destination NSW
Friends relax by the pool at Theo’s Rooftop Bar, Penrith
Lady Banks Rooftop, Bankstown Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying drinks at Lady Banks Rooftop in Bankstown
Lady Banks Rooftop, Bankstown Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying drinks at Lady Banks Rooftop in Bankstown