From left: Raes on Wategos general manager Marty McCaig, interior designer Tamsin Johnson and Raes on Wategos managing director Jordy Catalano out the front of the new site in the former Victoria’s at Wategos. Photograph courtesy of Raes on Wategos. Perched on a sunny hill overlooking the beach at Byron Bay’s picturesque Wategos, Raes on Wategos is one of Australia’s most coveted boutique accommodations. Beloved for its storied past as a kiosk and later a private home, it is said that Salvador Dalí designed the tropical garden and freeform pool that remain iconic features today. With only seven exclusive suites, securing a stay here—especially during the bustling summer months—is highly sought after. Many visitors only get a taste of the hotel’s charm by chancing a spot at its Mediterranean-inspired Cellar Bar or booking a table at the sun-drenched Raes Dining Room.
After 30 years of operating as a standalone site, Raes on Wategos today announces its expansion. In October this year, the iconic boutique hotel will open a second property with ten new suites, located in the former Victoria’s at Wategos—just moments away from the original.
“Our goal is to honour the deep history of Wategos Beach, where Raes has played a pivotal role in its transformation from what was once a banana plantation, to now one of Australia’s most sought-after travel destinations,” Jordy Catalano, the managing director at Raes on Wategos, tells T Australia.
“We are dedicated to preserving this legacy while bringing the same intimate atmosphere, relaxed aesthetic, and exceptional hospitality that makes Raes on Wategos so special.”
To bring this vision to life, Raes on Wategos has enlisted renowned Australian interior designer Tamsin Johnson, who was behind the original hotel’s refurbishment in 2016. Johnson has crafted a seamless extension of the existing theme, blending coastal elegance with Mediterranean influences. Expect softly curved white walls, timber accents that welcome the sea breeze, and coastal furnishings to enhance the space’s relaxed vibe.
The new site introduces two new pools: a 16 x 3-metre pool featuring a cascading waterfall and a 12-metre solar-heated pool complete with a cabana and lounge area, ideal for year-round relaxation. Guests can also enjoy beautifully landscaped tropical gardens and several indoor common areas, including open log fireplaces, reserved exclusively for them.
“Tamsin’s design incorporates unique vintage and custom pieces that establish a warm, relaxing atmosphere,” says Catalano. “These elements, along with our close proximity to the original location allow guests to easily stroll over and enjoy Raes Dining Room, our alfresco Cellar Bar, and the newly refreshed Raes Spa.”
The expansion marks a significant milestone for Raes on Wategos, celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Alongside the surprise new site, behind the scenes the team have also been working on expanding its portfolio with The Bonobo by Raes, a hotel apartment concept launching in Byron Bay in 2025. This new chapter represents the start of a new era for Raes, with more developments on the horizon.
Raes on Wategos will open bookings to its second property in October 2024, with further details to be announced in the coming months. raes.com.au.
