Northern Australia, spanning the Northern Territory, Northern Queensland, and Northern Western Australia, is an uncharted paradise that's as Aussie as it gets.
The Best of Northern Australia: Our Top 4 Places to Stay
Just waiting to be discovered, this unique slice of Australia is brimming with adventure and charm. There’s something truly special about Northern Australia—the vast landscapes, ancient Aboriginal culture, stunning natural wonders, starry skies, tropical climate, and diverse wildlife create an experience you won’t find anywhere else down under.
During winter, these northernmost parts of Australia come alive as the floodplains recede and the wilderness opens up. This season transforms the region into a paradise, with gentle humidity, clear skies, and warm waters setting the perfect scene for your adventure.
Get to know the vibrant life of the country’s northern regions and check out the top 4 places to stay that will make your trip unforgettable. These northern gems are a bucket-list must for even the most discerning traveler. Whether you’re after luxury, seclusion, or a connection with nature, these spots offer the perfect mix of comfort and unique experiences. It’s the true blue land down under with lashings of luxury —and trust me, mate, you won’t be disappointed!
Silky Oaks Lodge - Queensland
Silky Oaks Lodge, nestled above the tranquil Mossman River, is the perfect getaway for those looking to relax and explore the natural wonders of Northern Queensland. Perfectly positioned in the World Heritage-listed Daintree National Park, the lodge offers a peaceful retreat among the rainforest treetops with easy access to the incredible Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge, the Great Barrier Reef, and Cape Tribulation.
For a spectacular, once-in-a lifetime experience, join First Nations Kuku Yalanji guides on a tour to discover the rainforest’s hidden treasures. Or for those seeking some serious R&R, unwind by the river at the Healing Waters Spa. This area of Tropical North Queensland is where the ancient Daintree Rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef, making it a truly special spot.
The lodge’s open-air restaurant and bar let you enjoy the peaceful sights and sounds of the rainforest while dining on delicious contemporary Australian cuisine with Asian twists. The dishes are light and refreshing, just right for the tropical climate. Whether you’re up for an adventure or deep relaxation, Silky Oaks Lodge is a Northern Queensland must-do.
Lizard Island - Queensland
The experience starts before you even arrive at Lizard Island when you depart from Cairns on a scheduled charter flight, embarking on an incredible one-hour scenic journey over the stunning Great Barrier Reef, flying above a 200-kilometre expanse of this natural wonder. Once you arrive, it just keeps getting better. Every room and suite at Lizard Island Resort is designed to offer luxury and exclusivity. The Pavilion, perched high above Sunset Bay, boasts breathtaking 270-degree views of Anchor Bay, Osprey Island, and Sunset Beach, ensuring complete privacy and spectacular sunsets. For those drawn to the shoreline, Beachfront Suites line Anchor Bay, offering sweeping sea vistas and private pathways leading straight to the beach—a perfect blend of supreme comfort and accessibility. Oceanview Villas, elevated on Sunset Bay, provide filtered sea views over Anchor Bay or Sunset Beach, some featuring their own secluded plunge pools for an extra touch of relaxation and luxury.
At Lizard Island, dining is an experience in itself. Indulge in gourmet meals with stunning ocean views, or opt for a deluxe picnic on a secluded beach. Each day brings new menus inspired by the local environment, paired perfectly with a selection of wine, Champagne, beer, and spirits—all included in your stay. Whether dining in or exploring the island’s culinary delights, Lizard Island promises a memorable experience in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
El Questro Homestead - Kimberley, Western Australia
Nestled deep within the vast and ancient Kimberley landscape, El Questro Homestead offers a secluded, all-inclusive retreat surrounded by striking burnt-orange cliffs and verdant lawns, inviting guests to unwind in its luxurious yet unpretentious atmosphere.
Tucked amidst fragrant frangipani trees, this intimate hideaway boasts ten cozy suites adorned with stylish interiors, each offering serene views over the tranquil Chamberlain River.
Enjoy locally sourced, three-course dinners complemented by fine wines beneath the sprawling Kimberley night sky. Complimentary excursions enrich the stay, providing a true immersion into the Kimberley’s natural wonders.
Spanning nearly 700,000 acres, the Homestead’s expansive surroundings cater to adventurers of every stripe—from seasoned explorers to novices eager to discover the outback. Whether hiking rugged trails or navigating scenic four-wheel drive routes, El Questro Homestead promises an authentic Kimberley experience, blending luxurious touches with genuine warmth and natural beauty.
Bamurru Plains - Northern Territory
Nature lovers - this one’s for you. In Australia’s tropical Top End, nestled along the coastal floodplains of the Mary River Wetlands near Kakadu National Park, lies Bamurru Plains—an extraordinary destination dedicated to immersing visitors in one of Australia’s most diverse ecosystems. Spanning 300km² of private property, it’s renowned for its rich wildlife, including the world’s highest concentration of estuarine crocodiles and over 236 bird species.
The property offers ten luxurious Safari Bungalows providing a stylish retreat amidst the natural wonder. For larger groups of up to six, the Jabiru Retreat stands as a secluded sanctuary within the property. It features two Safari Bungalows connected by a raised walkway leading to a private plunge pool. Overlooking lush plains frequented by buffalo, agile wallabies, brumbies, and a myriad of birdlife like magpie geese and jabirus, an outdoor lounge and dining area enhances the retreat’s charm.
Ideal for up to four adults, with additional space for two children upon request in swag bed sleeping arrangements, Jabiru Retreat caters perfectly to couples, families with older children, or small groups seeking an exclusive, personalized experience in this captivating environment.
Consider this your invitation to a journey through Northern Australia that promises to be both exhilarating and enriching. From the thrill of encountering saltwater crocodiles and witnessing kangaroos in their natural habitat, to the genuine warmth of connecting with locals, every moment here is authentically Aussie. Make your adventure unforgettable by indulging in the luxury and comfort offered at these exceptional properties, where you can immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or a deeper connection with nature, Northern Australia awaits with experiences that will leave a lasting impression.