12 of the most romantic stays in Sydney

For food lovers: The Grand National Hotel

Seafood legend Josh Niland and wife Julie took over the historic Grand National Hotel in 2024 to open a new restaurant, Saint Peter, now one of the most acclaimed restaurants in the country. They also transformed the upper levels into an elegant 14-room boutique hotel. The finishes are luxe and blend modern touches with an old-fashioned style – think lots of velvet, intricate wallpaper and original marble fireplaces – with unique flourishes like fish fat candles and ceramics made from fish bones.  

Budget: $$ 

What’s nearby? Tucked into the leafy backstreets of Paddington, the hotel is just a short walk to the boutique shopping of Oxford Street and the picturesque Paddington Reservoir Gardens, perfect for a romantic stroll. 

Saint Peter by Josh Niland, ground floor of the The Grand National Hotel - Credit: Christopher Pearce | Saint Peter

For a night on the water: Lilypad Palm Beach

Lilypad is a one-of-a-kind, miniature luxury villa floating on the calm waters off Palm Beach. Relax on the sunny deck, curl up on the plush couches or enjoy a lazy morning in the king-sized bed with spectacular views at every turn. There’s a cosy fireplace for winter stays and an infrared sauna to soothe aching muscles. Your stay at the villa includes all meals – fire up the barbecue to grill kangaroo skewers and organic rib eye steaks or choose from the chef’s menu before you go – as well as romantic snacks and fine wines. 

Budget: $$$ 

What’s nearby? Hop on the small self-drive boat or stand-up paddleboards that come with the villa and set out to discover tiny coves and hidden beaches around this quiet part of the harbour. Bookings at nearby Barrenjoey House come with a big discount for any Lilypad guests.  

The Lilypad during a sunset, Palm Beach

For a cool city stay: The EVE Hotel Sydney

One of the most anticipated hotel openings in the city, The EVE was designed to reflect contemporary Redfern and Surry Hills, neighbourhoods known for creative energy and cultural depth. The design is unique and meticulous, with bright pops of colour over an ochre and timber palette, works from Australian artists and makers, and lush gardens draped over the exterior. On the roof, there’s a pool circled by soft red cabanas where you can order snacks and margaritas via QR code. Choose a Sunset Balcony room to watch the city glow as the sun goes down. 

Budget: $$ 

What’s nearby? The EVE is part of the vibey Wunderlich Lane precinct, which is home to trendy restaurants and bars like Olympus Dining, Island Radio, R by Raita Noda and the retro-themed Baptist St Rec Club bar. 

By the pool at The EVE Hotel, Sydney

For rooftop romance: Kimpton Margot Sydney 

As soon as you step into the lobby of the Kimpton Margot (built in 1939 as the head office of Sydney Water) you’ll be wowed by the grandeur of this Art Deco icon – on show in a cavernous, light-filled lobby. And it doesn’t stop there. There are plush rooms and two rooftop pools, one exclusive for guests and a huge pool bar that feels like a party hosted in the middle of the city skyscrapers. If your idea of romance includes furry friends, bring your pet along – Kimpton say: as long as it fits in the lift, any pet is welcome. 

Budget: $ 

What’s nearby? The heart of the city is just steps from your suite. Go shopping at the luxury boutiques along Castlereagh Street, wander through Hyde Park or visit the Art Gallery of NSW. 

Inside a guest room at the Kimpton Margot Sydney - Credit: Kimpton Margot Sydney | Pro-invest Hotels Group

For maximum luxury: Capella Sydney

Set inside a gorgeous golden sandstone building in the centre of the city, Capella Sydney is simple, classic luxury at its best. As well as understated, elegant rooms; an spectacular indoor swimming pool and spa offering, and high-end, European-inflected wood fired dining at in-house Brasserie 1930, the hotel has a special squad of curators who guide you to the kind of Sydney experience you want. They’ll put together a bespoke itinerary filled with exclusive experiences and rom-com-worthy moments, making for a one-of-a-kind romantic break. 

Budget: $$$ 

What’s nearby? Do a slow, scenic lap of the Royal Botanic Garden then head onto Centro 86 for a sunset drink. One of Australia’s most recognised modern art galleries, the Museum of Contemporary Art is just 10 minutes away.  

The tranquil indoor swimming pool at Capella, Sydney - Credit: Timothy Kaye

For the wellness warriors: Manly Pacific Hotel 

At the Manly Pacific, you can start your couples’ retreat with a private in-room Pilates session followed by a relaxing massage. Take a dip in the rooftop pool overlooking the beach then recharge in the infrared sauna. Splash out and stay in one of the new Villas to enjoy breakfast on your private terrace as the waves crash beyond the pines. 

Budget: $ 

What’s nearby? Manly Beach is just across the road, perfect for a little sun and sea. At its southern end, Shelly Beach is one of the best snorkelling spots in Sydney – bring your own gear or book a guided tour with Ecotreasures. 

Room with a view at Manly Pacific MGallery, Manly Beach

For stunning harbour views: Pier One Sydney Harbour 

If your love language involves soaking in a tub for two, gazing at an international icon from your room and harbour swimming then check in to Pier One Sydney Harbour. The Admiral Suite has floor-to-ceiling windows that open up for front row seats to the Sydney Harbour Bridge, with a tub perfectly positioned to take it all in. Pour yourself an Archie Rose gin and tonic from the mini bar and lie back with your one and only, and let the night drift in. When the sun sets, order Sydney rock oysters and the unique King George whiting parmi for dinner at Pier Dining. 

Budget: $$$ 

What’s nearby? Theatre buffs can catch a show at the Sydney Theatre Company or a performance at Sydney Dance Company, both just a short walk down the road.  

Pier One Sydney Harbour

For a glamping retreat: Discovery Parks Lane Cove [re-opening in July 2025] 

Discover a pocket of tranquil bushland just a few minutes from the centre of Sydney. There’s no need to sacrifice your creature comforts though – Discovery Parks Lane Cove has stylish safari tents that sit on raised timber decks and come with ensuite bathrooms (with separate bath and shower), an outdoor kitchen and a barbecue.  

Budget: $ 

What’s nearby? The park is in the middle of Lane Cove National Park, so there are endless opportunities for bush walks, picnics, canoeing and birdwatching. 

Superior Safari Tent at Discovery Parks - Lane Cove, Sydney North - Credit: Discovery Parks

For ocean views: Jonah’s Boutique Hotel and Restaurant 

Jonah’s is an iconic Sydney property that began life as a teahouse in the 1930s and is now a luxurious boutique hotel and fine-dining restaurant on the sleepy but spectacular Northern Beaches. Perched high on the cliffs above Whale Beach, there are magnificent coastal views from everywhere: your private balcony, the infinity pool and the dinner table. For an extra lavish touch, arrive by seaplane. 

Budget: $$$ 

What’s nearby? The golden sands of Whale Beach are in front of the hotel – ask staff for chairs, towels and umbrellas. You can explore the ocean by kayak, paddleboard or yacht, or set out on foot to explore Barrenjoey Head and the lighthouse, a famous whale watching spot in winter. 

Swimming in the infinity pool at Jonah's Boutique Hotel and Restaurant, Whale Beach

For animal encounters: Wildlife Retreat at Taronga 

The Wildlife Retreat at Taronga is something special. The 62 rooms, spread across five lodges, overlook a native Australian animal enclosure exclusive for guests (hotel staff can introduce you to the cutest members each afternoon) and offer jaw-dropping harbour views. Pack your own romantic meal or book into Me-Gal, where native ingredients are the star of a menu made for two. 

Budget: $$ 

What’s nearby? Taronga Zoo is the highlight here – each stay comes with a two-day zoo pass and a private tour of the surrounding native animal enclosure, where you’ll get to interact with bettongs, echidnas, pademelons and wallabies. 

Koala right outside the door at the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga, Mosman - Credit: Taronga Zoo

For surf & sun: QT Bondi 

Live like a local during a short break at QT Bondi. Part of the shiny Pacific building just across from the beach, these wild and colourful, contemporary studios and apartments are like a home away from home. There are free bikes and surfboards for hire, pets are welcome and the expert staff are always on hand to recommend the best spots in the neighbourhood. 

Budget: $ 

What’s nearby? Bondi Beach is just steps away and you’ll find endless boutique shops, restaurants and bars on the streets surrounding the hotel. The legendary Bondi Icebergs pool, Icebergs Dining Room and Bar and sauna are also just a short walk away. 

QT Bondi, Bondi Beach - Credit: QT Hotels & Resorts

For a bushland escape: Spicers Sangoma Retreat 

Tucked into the foothills of the Blue Mountains in Sydney’s Hawkesbury region, Spicers Sangoma Retreat is a rare adults-only escape. There are just eight suites, each with a unique design that hints of the founders’ South African homeland, with feature bathtubs and tranquil outlooks over the lower Blue Mountains. For extra surprise, opt in for the Spa Anise Lovers Indulgence 90-minute couples massage or have your butler decorate the room with petals and candles, plus a delivery of chocolate-covered strawberries and Champagne. Regardless of any extras, every stay here is all-inclusive, meaning you and your partner will be eating at Restaurant Amara, lauded for its focus on vegetables, all grown within the radius of a one-hour drive. 

Budget: $$$ 

What’s nearby? Part of Sangoma’s appeal is its isolation – you could happily spend days here not doing anything. But if you need some activity, the property can organise private rock climbing, abseiling and hiking tours in the national park. 

Spicers Sangoma Retreat, Bowen Mountain