Byron Bay has long been a magnet for couples seeking a romantic getaway, with its pristine beaches, iconic lighthouse, and relaxed coastal vibe. Add to that a thriving dining scene and a strong connection to local artisans, and it’s the perfect destination for slowing down and savouring time together. In the heart of this idyllic town, you’ll find 28 Degrees Byron Bay, a luxurious, adults-only guesthouse where eco-conscious design meets impeccable style. After hearing glowing reviews about this boutique property—and its exciting new wing—we decided it was time to experience its charm for ourselves.
Overview


From the moment you step into 28 Degrees, you’re enveloped in an atmosphere of refined, effortless elegance that epitomises Byron Bay’s global reputation. This boutique property is a sanctuary for lovers of design excellence, barefoot luxury, and timeless beauty. With a recent expansion that almost doubled its capacity to accommodate up to 24 guests, 28 Degrees now features a brand-new wing with five additional rooms, including private plunge pool options, Lighthouse Rooms with antique clawfoot bathtubs, and a decadent three-storey villa for those looking to indulge in ultimate luxury.
The boutique hideaway is the creation of owners Lindon and Deb Garske, who have poured their hearts into transforming what was once their family home into a haven of comfort and style. Deb’s keen eye for interior design is evident throughout, with reclaimed French oak floors, soft organic textiles, and lush greenery creating an atmosphere of understated luxury. Special details elevate the guest experience, like the beautiful rose marble cabinetry handmade by a local craftsman, Deiji linen bathrobes and a handmade woven tote bag from local, sustainable artisan brand The Dharma Door provided for use during the stay, and curated artwork by a close friend from Deb’s homeland, Norfolk Island, to reflect the property’s name, which nods to the shared latitude of 28 Degrees between Norfolk Island and Byron Bay.
While the Main House continues to charm with its communal spaces, pool, lounge, and kitchen exclusively for its guests, and the original seven rooms, the unveiling of the new wing has added a fresh layer of elegance. Featuring five additional rooms, the expanded property now accommodates up to 24 guests across a range of stunning options. From the Lighthouse Rooms, with their iconic views, to the tropical Private Plunge Pool Rooms, and the exquisite three-story villa, there’s something for every kind of couple’s retreat—whether it’s an intimate getaway, a solo adventure, or a special celebration.
Best room for two
We stayed in the Luxury Lighthouse Room, perched on the upper floor of the new wing, and it was pure indulgence. With an antique clawfoot bathtub set on its private balcony, it was the perfect spot to soak in the views of the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse in the distance. Every detail in the room spoke to understated elegance, from the organic Hale & Mercantile linen on the king-sized bed to handmade ceramic cups by local artist Madhavi Muncie and furniture crafted by Maker & Son.
For those seeking even more seclusion, the new wing also offers Private Plunge Pool Rooms nestled within tropical gardens for a serene retreat. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, the three-story luxurious villa promises a truly decadent experience with space to unwind in complete privacy.
Dining
Mornings at 28 Degrees are a treat, starting with a DIY breakfast station featuring house-made granola and fruit compote. Instructions are provided on how to layer your muesli, compote, and vanilla bean yoghurt for a delicious start to the day. Whether enjoyed on our private balcony overlooking the lighthouse or within the comfort of the room, breakfast felt like a simple yet luxurious ritual.
When it comes to dining out, Byron Bay offers no shortage of options. For lunch, we loved the Treehouse in Belongil, a laid-back spot with a chilled-out vibe and delicious wood-fired pizzas (perfectly washed down with a crisp white wine) before popping across the road for a swim at Belongil Beach.
For sundowners in style, we headed to one of our favourite Byron institutions, The Balcony, for a perfect perch above the heart of town—the ideal spot to enjoy cocktails and oysters while soaking in views of the bustling street life below. Another dinner highlight was No Bones, the vegan go-to in Byron Bay, where sensational flavours proved plant-based dining can be anything but ordinary.
For a long and languid feast, we made sure to set aside time during our Byron stay for lunch just outside town at Three Blue Ducks, located at The Farm in Ewingsdale. This farm-to-table restaurant offered an unforgettable dining experience with seasonal produce and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere in a picturesque rural setting. And for a romantic evening, The Mez Club, just a short stroll up the road from 28 Degrees, impressed us with its Mediterranean-inspired tapas plates, an Aegean vibe, and Balearic beats by night—ideal for sharing a bottle of wine and lingering over dinner.
Couples will love
28 Degrees is designed with couples in mind. Whether it’s a romantic soak in the antique clawfoot bathtub on your private balcony, relaxing in your personal plunge pool, or unwinding on the handcrafted Maker & Son armchairs with a glass of wine, every element of your stay invites connection and relaxation.
Beyond the property, couples can explore the best of Byron together—hand-in-hand along the Cape Byron Walking Track that takes you on a hike through rainforest, beach, grassland, and clifftops to the lighthouse, treasure-hunting in the nearby country towns of Bangalow or Newrybar (don’t miss the artisan collective Newrybar Merchants!), or simply basking on the pristine beaches of beautiful Byron Bay.
The ethos of 28 Degrees is about slowing down, soaking up the natural surroundings, and tuning out of everyday chaos. It’s a place to exhale in quiet luxury and celebrate the beauty of the moment.
28 Degrees Byron Bay
12 Marvell Street, Byron Bay
28byronbay.com.au
Read more: Things for Couples to Do in Byron Bay