Opened in 2015, Halcyon House was founded by sisters Siobhan and Elisha Bickle. While their original intent was to turn the 1960s surf lodge into a place for their family to stay, they quickly realized their vision, one of nostalgia and purposeful relaxation on Cabarita beach, was one they wanted to share with the world.
Inside, no two rooms are alike. Australian designer Anna Spiro filled the spaces with unique combinations of patterned wallpaper, vintage textiles, and antique furniture. There’s a playful elegance throughout, as Spiro unites her eclectic style with Halcyon House’s nostalgic history. Many of the pieces that fill the lounges and rooms, vintage John Derian sofas and Madeline Weinrib rugs, were handpicked by Anna, Eliza, and Siobhan.
The 19 rooms and suites come with minibars stocked with local snacks, Bemboka linens, and Aesop bath products. The pool is surrounded by blue-and-white sun loungers, and the beach is close by. Halcyon House emphasizes wellness, offering a full-service spa with treatments that use native botanicals.
The on-site restaurant, Paper Daisy, is a standout. Chef Jason Barratt serves coastal Australian fare with a clean, seasonal focus. Expect fresh seafood, handmade pastas, and inventive desserts. The bar leans local, with a sharp wine list and cocktails made for sundown.
Preserving the nostalgia of the former 1960s surf lodge, Halcyon House provides guests with a place to warmly experience the joy that Cabarita Beach has historically offered.
Halcyon House is an Australian beach hotel that stands out for its unique mix of bold interior design, relaxed atmosphere, and genuine service. Located directly on Cabarita Beach in northern New South Wales, this former 1960s surf motel has been carefully reimagined into a 21-room boutique retreat.
Inside, no two rooms are alike. Australian designer Anna Spiro filled the spaces with unique combinations of patterned wallpaper, vintage textiles, and antique furniture. There’s a playful elegance throughout, as Spiro unites her eclectic style with Halcyon House’s nostalgic history. Many of the pieces that fill the lounges and rooms, vintage John Derian sofas and Madeline Weinrib rugs, were handpicked by Anna, Eliza, and Siobhan.
Most rooms offer ocean or garden views, with private balconies or courtyards to soak in the sea air. Bathrooms come with marble vanities and plush towels, and mini-bars are stocked with complimentary snacks and drinks.
The hotel’s centerpiece is Paper Daisy, its on-site restaurant helmed by chef Jason Barratt. The focus is coastal Australian cuisine with Mediterranean influences— freshly shucked oysters, grilled fish, and local vegetables. Open all day, the restaurant offers poolside dining, breezy breakfasts, and sunset cocktails just steps from the beach.
The outdoor pool is framed by cabanas and palms, offering a peaceful setting for reading, relaxing, or sipping wine. There’s also a spa for massages and facials, as well as a small gym. Bicycles are available for exploring the surrounding area, including scenic coastal tracks and nearby nature reserves.
What sets Halcyon apart is its service: attentive but never overbearing. The staff go out of their way to create a stay that’s effortless. It’s the kind of place where you’re welcomed by name and remembered the next day.
Halcyon House is a place to relax, recharge, and enjoy the beach at your own pace. Whether you’re here for a weekend break or an extended stay, it delivers a distinctive Australian coastal experience—one rooted in good design, good food, and a friendly, easygoing vibe.
Cabarita Beach is consistent year-round, with mellow waves out front and more advanced breaks nearby. Directly in front of Halcyon House is a sandy beach break ideal for beginners and cruisy sessions. Just a short walk south is Cabarita Point, a right-hand point break offering long, peeling waves perfect for intermediate surfers. For a punchier wave, head 10 minutes north to Hastings Point, where wedgy A-frames suit more advanced riders. The surf here works best from March to October, with offshore morning winds and lighter crowds than Byron Bay.
Paper Daisy, Halcyon House’s restaurant, is one of Australia’s top regional restaurants. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served daily, with a focus on seasonal coastal cuisine. Dishes are simple, ingredient-driven, and elegantly plated. The bar mixes classic cocktails with a local twist, and the wine list is strong on Australian labels. The setting is refined but breezy, with indoor-outdoor dining just steps from the pool. For more casual bites, Cabarita village cafés are a 5-minute walk.
Cabarita Beach is on the Tweed Coast, about 30 minutes north of Byron Bay and 20 minutes south of Gold Coast Airport (OOL), which is the nearest airport. Brisbane Airport is 90 minutes by car.
The region is known for mild winters and warm, humid summers. It is known for its slow pace, especially in comparison to Byron Bay. However, Cabarita’s leisurely style does not mean a lack of activity. Guests can take a Hot Air Balloon over Mt Warning, bike to Kingscliff Beach, visit the Tweed Regional Gallery and Art Centre, or go on a horseback ride on the beach. Cabarita, nestled in the beloved Tweed Coast, offers a balance of bustling activity and moments for pause, inviting guests to enjoy their beachside stay the right way.
Address: 21 Cypress Crescent, Cabarita Beach NSW 2488, Australia.
Check-in: 14:00
Check-out: 11:00
Related hotels
