Photograph courtesy of Hotel Lucile. It’s officially that time of year when the weather has tipped into summer temperatures and the Christmas break is top of all conversation. Whether you’re itching for a holiday in a coastal Australian town or planning ahead for an overseas getaway, T Australia has rounded up a list of new destinations to have on your radar.
Sea Sea, Crescent Head NSW
Time slows down as you turn onto Maria River Road into Crescent Head. With a population forecast of just 2,203, it would be fair to assume that about 95 per cent of the residents surf—while the remaining 5 per cent are perched on the grassy hill watching them.
Like most sleepy coastal towns, accommodation here ranges from holiday parks to Airbnbs — both of which tend to be booked out by families and decorated in body boards during the holiday periods. But Sea Sea, a 70s-inspired boutique hotel opening this November, is set to bring a fresh energy to the area — while still blending in with the town’s laid-back charm
It’s the latest venture from husband-and-wife duo George Gorrow and Cisco Tschurtschenthaler who are behind the luxe Bali hotel The Slow. Like its Canggu counterpart, guests can expect a similar focus on food, music, entertainment, art, surfing, and stylish design. With just 25 rooms, guests can find studios, suites and a villa to check into. Plus, there’s a communal surf club, a hi-fi audio lounge for live music, and art exhibitions showcasing both local and international talent.
Sea Sea is set to open in November 2025. seaseahotel.com.
Hotel Lucile, Los Angeles
Hotel Lucile is a 25-room boutique hotel in the heart of Silver Lake, housed in lovingly reimagined former church building from 1931. The interiors feature vibrant velvet furniture, chic moss green tiles, and golden accents, while preserving original design elements. The hotel features a restaurant and bar, a pool, and a rooftop lounge with breathtaking views of the city. Conveniently located within walking distance of the farmer’s market, it’s the ideal destination for embracing local produce and artisans.
The hotel will be welcoming guests in 2025. www.casetta.com.
Rosewood Hotel Bauer, Venice
The Calile, Noosa Heads
The Calile Hotel in Brisbane is arguable one of Australia’s most globally recognised accomodations, taking out 25th spot in this year’s World’s 50 Best Hotels and as the Best in Oceania. It’s beloved for its cali-inspired design, cultural program and convenient location on James Street in Fortitude Valley.
Now, the family-owned hotel has council approval to open a second iteration in Noosa Heads. It will include 153 rooms, 29 suites and four villas, designed by Richards & Spence, which was responsible for its original location. Highlights include two pools and a wellness facility.
The Calile Noosa is set to open at 3-7 Serenity Close, Noosa Heads in 2028. thecalilehotel.com.
Raes, Byron Bay
After 30 years of operating as a standalone site, Byron Bay’s Raes on Wategos is set to open a second location this November. The iconic boutique hotel will launch a new property with ten suites, situated in the former Victoria’s at Wategos—just moments away from the original.
Designed by Tamsin Johnson, the new site reflects the same coastal elegance and Mediterranean influence as the original. It features two pools: a 16 x 3-meter pool with a cascading waterfall and a 12-meter solar-heated pool complete with a cabana and lounge area, perfect for year-round relaxation. Guests will also enjoy beautifully landscaped tropical gardens and several indoor common areas, including open log fireplaces, reserved exclusively for their use.
