Adults-only resorts in NSW for a grown-ups getaway for two

Top of the list for romantic resorts in NSW is Elements of Byron, where couples go to escape from the pressures of everyday life, celebrate special occasions, and live it up in luxury near the white sands of Byron Bay.

After checking into your stunning villa, grab your swimmers and head straight for the separate adults-only pool to laze about in your private cabana and read a book (yes, an actual book) in peace and quiet. When you’re ready, take a dip at the swim-up pool bar for a Mexican-inspired cocktail and tapas. Frozen margaritas, anyone?

If you’re an early bird, join the first people in Australia to see the sun rise with complimentary yoga by the bay—the sound of the waves crashing is especially soothing. But if sunrise sounds too early for your romantic getaway, splurge on a private yoga session for you and your partner after a restful sleep-in. Or, better yet, skip it altogether and unwind with a relaxing personalised massage at the Osprey Spa.

Of course, when in Byron Bay, don’t forget to explore your local surroundings by catching a ride into town on the world’s first solar-powered train and exploring the town on foot.

If you’re after a more intimate stay in the Bay, this Hamptons-esque boutique offering, only minutes from the town centre, is among the best weekend getaways in NSW for couples.

Walking into The Atlantic, you’ll instantly feel at ease when the lovely staff greet you and take you to your beautifully furnished, travel-inspired room with a private deck. The property’s “home away from home” ethos will have you feeling relaxed in no time. With no groups and no kids allowed, this is the place you come to find true relaxation.

Feeling peckish? Borrow a free bike or take a short stroll down the road to the main street of Byron and grab a coffee or meal from any of the great local cafés and restaurants. (The Atlantic offers a fantastic locals’ guide for all things food, fun, and fitness around the Bay.) Don’t miss happy hour at St Elmo or, for something more casual, the burgers at local milkbar The Top Shop.

Alternatively, you can pick up some of the delicious local produce and cook a romantic meal in the open-plan kitchens set in the heart of each of the four beach cottages. Then enjoy your culinary creations while sitting at the communal fire pits and staring at the stars.

If you’re feeling adventurous, wander up to the Cape Byron Walking Track to see the famous lighthouse and snap a selfie at the most easterly point of Australia. The hotel staff can also suggest the best surf beaches or nearby towns to visit depending on your mood.

For couples seeking a more private weekend getaway, leave the hustle and bustle and ensconce yourself at Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat. Set in the stunning Tweed Valley in far north NSW and surrounded by World Heritage-listed national park, this is a true couples’ retreat “designed with romance in mind”.

No fear of hearing the shriek of toddlers or navigating around holidaying families here—this resort is exclusively adults-only and makes you feel like you’re the only couple staying there. With bungalows and luxury lodges purposely set apart from each other, you’re almost guaranteed to have uninterrupted peace during your visit.

Staff are at your beck and call if needed, but remain discreet the rest of the time, so this is your chance to unplug from reality and enjoy some time alone with your partner. You could stay in bed all day and listen to the rainforest birds, savour the views in your personal spa bath with floor-to-ceiling windows, or perhaps order a picnic and take a romantic stroll along one of the many secluded trails through ancient rainforest.

Don’t miss a chance to see their magical glow-worm colony that lights up the creek after dark—it’s a truly unforgettable memory to make with that special someone. It’s easy to see why proposals are a common occurrence at this romantic resort amongst the rainforest.

The luxurious Bells at Killcare on the NSW Central Coast provides an extra-romantic setting for celebrating special occasions. The beautifully furnished cottages are set in a palette of whitewashed wood, coastal blues, and wicker hampers. The pillow on the luxurious king-sized bed reads ‘Relax’ and that’s exactly what you’re likely to be doing for the next couple of days.

Wake up to the alarm of local kookaburras calling on your verandah and head to the restaurant for your included full hot breakfast – expect only the best in produce from their own garden and local growers. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, make sure to book a table at the award-winning restaurant and bar—the five-course Italian-inspired degustation is not to be missed.

For the baby mamas, enjoy some ‘me time’ and indulge in one of their signature Marma Kodo massages at the day spa. Inspired by “traditional Australian Aboriginal techniques that work to bring the body back into balance”, the massages will have you feeling like you’re floating on air when you finish.

For the more active romantics, arrange a packed picnic lunch, featuring housemade paninis and more, before you head out to explore the Bouddi National Park and its popular coastal walk.

Not far from Bells is another popular adults-only resort located in the sleepy seaside town of Toowoon Bay. At just over an hour from Sydney, Kim’s Beachside Retreat is a stellar escape for couples looking to recharge their batteries and spend some quality time together.

Set right on the beach, treat yourself to a private bungalow at this popular coastal hideaway. The prime location means you’ll be able to listen to the waves tumbling while you enjoy a private spa on your deck with a glass of bubbly in your hand. If you’re after some pampering, the staff are more than happy to organise a private massage that will leave you rested and rejuvenated.

With a hot buffet breakfast and dinner included with your room, you don’t have to stray far to enjoy a delicious meal before returning to your villa for more one-on-one time. Laze about enjoying some reading time or watching a movie together while wearing the luxurious Japanese style gowns (known as ‘yukatas’) provided.

When you do feel the need to leave your private paradise, a short drive to nearby Long Jetty will lead you to the very hip Glass Onion Society, a café and boutique with excellent coffee. Or grab a fresh loaf of bread or cinnamon scroll at The Green Tangerine bakery cafe across the road and hit up the many local antique stores for some retro shopping.

Nestled amongst the native tree canopies of the Blue Mountains, this all-inclusive couples’ retreat, only an hour’s drive west of Sydney, is an excellent weekend getaway in NSW for couples.

Escape the shrill sounds of the city (or your noisy children) and really breathe in the solitude with a stay at Spicers Sangoma Retreat near Bowen Mountain. With various accommodation options to suit your type of escape (including a glamping Tent Suite above the trees), there’s a room for every taste.

With all gourmet meals and beverages included in your stay (and a daily top-up of your mini-bar too), you won’t worry about where you’ll be eating or drinking out in the bush. Spicers has you covered—just turn up and relax. It’s just you, your partner, the mountain air and the local wildlife keeping you company.

Arrive at your new ‘home among the gumtrees’ just in time to settle in before treating your tastebuds to a decadent lunch. Make sure you save room for dinner—a seasonal five-course meal made from local organic produce from the Hawkesbury region and beyond.

For something extra romantic, ask about the ‘Bath Butler’ option where you’ll return from dinner to discover a candle-lit room scattered with rose petals, a freshly run bath and champagne on ice. The ultimate treat for that special occasion!

For couples who love the city nightlife (and don’t want to stray too far from home) a staycation at the cool boutique QT Sydney Hotel is a real winner.

The QT Sydney exudes old-world romance and character, from its sassy costumed greeters at the front doors to the dark wooden floors, velvet lounges, and quirky interiors. This isn’t the place for children—this hotel is definitely designed for a grown-up getaway and its adults-only amenities will have you wanting to overstay your welcome.

Located in the historic old Gowings and State Theatre buildings of downtown Sydney, the edgy design and attention to detail will give you an unforgettable stay whether you’re staying for an evening at the theatre or a night on the town.

Enjoy a meal at the Gowings Bar and Grill before kicking on at the intimate Gilt Lounge (only open Friday and Saturday nights) for a cocktail or three. Retire to your room for a late-night (early-morning?) bubble bath in the sumptuous spa and crash into the luxurious sheets of your king-sized bed.

When you wake, enjoy a delicious breakfast before heading to spaQ for a morning of pampering. Gentlemen, get ready to experience the closest, cleanest shave you’ll ever receive at the QT’s in-house Barber Shop, while ladies can enjoy an assortment of beauty treatments and complimentary hammam-inspired steam room. For the ultimate couples pamper session, ask for the ‘Suite Retreat’—almost three hours of complete bliss in the couple’s suite.