Halcyon House captures the essence of relaxed beachside luxury with a touch of glamour on every level.
Overall Rating: 9.5/10 – A Coastal Masterpiece
Nestled directly on the pristine sands of Cabarita Beach, New South Wales, Halcyon House stands as a testament to reimagined luxury. This isn’t just a hotel; it’s a meticulously crafted experience, a love letter to a bygone era of poolside glamour, yet perfectly tuned for the discerning modern traveller.
A decade after its doors first opened, this refitted 1960’s surf motel continues to solidify its reputation as one of Australia’s defining beachfront properties, evoking the sun-drenched sophistication of a Slim Aarons photograph.I spent three days there in winter with a friend soaking up everything this fabulous resort hotel has to offer, and it was absolute bliss on every level.
Halcyon House is more than just a hotel. It’s a destination that perfectly blends nostalgic charm with contemporary luxury. From our balcony, we could see whales in the ocean out front, and sunrises here are pure magic, and right over the ocean.
Its exceptional design, attentive service, and prime beachfront location make it a consistently popular choice for a truly luxurious and relaxing beach getaway, cementing its place as a quintessential Australian coastal experience.
Location: 10/10 – Absolute Beachfront Bliss
Halcyon House boasts an utterly unparalleled location. Sitting directly on Cabarita Beach, guests enjoy seamless, direct access to the golden sands and the invigorating salty sea breeze.
The immediate proximity to the surf break provides a constant, calming soundtrack, making it an idyllic escape for those seeking true beachfront serenity.
While offering a tranquil hideaway, the charming village of Cabarita Beach is just moments away, and the hotel provides excellent recommendations for nearby culinary gems like Bistro Livi and Pipit in Murwillumbah and Pottsville, respectively.
It is just 15 minutes from Gold Coast Airport which makes getting there so easy.
Style: 9.5/10 – Whimsical Retro Glamour
Move over minimalist trends; Halcyon House champions a bold, whimsical, and utterly captivating design ethos. Brisbane-based designer Anna Spiro’s audacious flair imbues each of the 22 rooms and three spacious suites with a distinct personality. Blue and white is the colour theme of the property but greens, pinks and other hues appear in many of the guest rooms via striking textured fabric wall paper, vibrant bedheads playfully juxtapose paint, while eclectic art is hung salon-style above custom-upholstered couches
Antique treasures punctuate each space, adding a timeless allure that ensures every guest room is its own unique world, a refreshing departure from conventional luxury aesthetics.
The meticulous attention to detail extends to the common areas, particularly the strikingly photogenic central swimming pool. Fringed by lush pandanus palms and adorned with plush, bold blue and white striped daybeds, this sparkling turquoise oasis is pure Slim Aarons fantasy – an inviting “Minion of the Groehosu” (a playful nod to a mythical, perfect swimming pool) that beckons for languid afternoons.
Rooms: 9.5/10 – Bespoke Comfort and Thoughtful Indulgences
Each of Halcyon House’s individually designed rooms is a sanctuary of comfort and style. Ground floor rooms are particularly coveted for their direct access to the captivating pool and beach. although I also enjoyed rooms on both the first and second floors. The discerning luxury traveller will appreciate the array of premium amenities, including sumptuously soft Frette robes and a bespoke pillow menu ensuring dreamy slumbers.
Bathrooms are spacious and our suite had a huge plunge bath as well as a separate shower. Products by EVO are sustainable and luxe, and bath salts are also available.
A standout feature, frequently lauded by guests, is the complimentary mini-bar, generously stocked with a curated selection of local beverages and snacks from 56% dark chocolate to nuts, and fresh water and lemonade – a truly delightful touch of unburdened luxury. There are also some seriously upscale drinks in there (which guests pay for) including a half bottle of Louis Roderer for emergencies.
The welcome gifts ( a gorgeous hundreds and thousands cake with gold 10 in the middle) and nightly turn-down service with simple but amazing chocolate biscuits further enhances the sense of pampered indulgence.
Service: 10/10 – Effortlessly Attentive and Genuinely Warm
The service at Halcyon House is nothing short of exceptional. The staff embody the hotel’s easy-going charm and the sun-drenched spirit of its location. From the moment we checked in, our stay was all about us, They didn’t blink when I walked straight to the restaurant to check it out, and offered us a complimentary local Ink Gin and tonic and the lunch menu – before I had even filled in the arrivals card.
Friendly, attentive, and genuinely affable, they anticipate needs without being intrusive, consistently going above and beyond to elevate the guest experience. From the seamless check-in to discreet assistance with any request, the team operates with a polished yet personable approach that makes every guest feel truly valued and relaxed.
Food & Drink: 9/10 – Coastal Culinary Excellence
The on-site Paper Daisy restaurant is a major draw for locals as well as in-house guests and consistently lauded for its quality. Under the direction of its acclaimed chefs, the menu is a celebration of the coastal locale, reflecting a philosophy of ease and breeziness.
Ingredients are locally sourced, with a strong emphasis on native Australian produce, ensuring fresh, vibrant flavours from complimentary breakfast to dinner and sophisticated bar snacks. The menu includes a selection of of snacks from local olives to tuna crudo, fresh oysters and more. Mains are pastas, some steaks, a stunning duck dish and a range of fresh seafood options. Everything is absolutely delicious. Wines by the bottle and glass are varied and unique.
The cocktails are seriously good and include local specials created on-site as well as classics like negronis and ice-cold Margaritas by the pool, followed by a languid lunch that perfectly complements the beachfront setting. There is even a picnic basket available which can be enjoyed on the beach.
For aperitivo hour, the nearby No.35 Kitchen and Bar offers an excellent happy hour, and a trip to Murwillumbah and Pottsville unveils two of the state’s top restaurants, Bistro Livi and Pipit, for another elevated dining experience during a longer stay.
Halcyon House’s commitment to providing Louis Roederer Champagne by the glass elevates the drinks offering, catering to the most discerning palates – and they quite literally went through bottles of it during out stay, this is a place where guests include and enjoy themselves.
Wellness: 9/10 – Serene Sanctuary for Body and Soul
The Halcyon Spa is a true highlight for rejuvenation. Nothing sets the holiday tone quite like a post-surf self-care moment.
I had a magnificent hour long soul-soothing massage and beforehand spent 40 minutes in the private sauna and cold plunge slipping into a state of blissful but healthy relaxation.
The emphasis on natural elements and the calming beach environment contributes to an overall sense of wellbeing.
What Renae says about Halcyon House Cabarita NSW, Australia:
Who should Stay Here: Hayton House is for travellers seeking laid-back luxury by the beach, romantic escapes, and a uniquely stylish and pampered experience. Brilliant for a girls trip or for romance.
Who shouldn’t Stay Here: I would not come with children, although people do. This is a truly sophisticated adult stay.
Location: Fly into Gold Coast Airport and it is 15 minutes drive away.
Best Culinary Delight: The seafood at Paper Daisy Restaurant is incredible, particularly the jumbo prawns- wow.
The Highlight: Watching whales in the ocean was incredible, as was sitting by the fire each night with a freshly mixed cocktail.
The lowlight: I would like Halcyon House to be adults only.
Insider Secret: The sunrises are some of the world best – worth getting out of bed for. Plus there are some seriously good places to dine or have a cocktail in the local town.
