Home Tour: Raes Guesthouses in Byron Bay is a Love Letter to Coastal Luxury
Byron Bay’s luxury accommodation scene has a fresh addition with the launch of Raes Guesthouses by the Raes hospitality brand.
Raes on Wategos in Byron Bay has long been synonymous with beachside luxury. And now, the celebrated brand has expanded its offering with the highly anticipated Raes Guesthouses, unveiled just in time for the hotel’s 30th anniversary.
Located just steps from the original hotel, this second addition to the Raes collection features ten beautifully styled suites, inviting common areas with log fireplaces, two lap pools, and lush tropical gardens.
Designed by renowned interior designer Tamsin Johnson, the property offers a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired take on coastal luxury.
Elegant Rusticity
“The inspiration was to create a complementary extension of the original Raes on Wategos,” explains Tamsin, “but adapted to a different type of building with a more contemporary structure.”
Tamsin’s vision was to layer this new property with what she describes as “elegant rusticity” and a “coastal playfulness.” The hotel is a masterclass in curated materials—cane, rattan, stone, and ceramics elevate the rooms and common areas, while a palette of earthy blues and greens adds a bold touch.
Each design element was thoughtfully chosen to give Raes Guesthouses its “own distinct character,” as Tamsin explains, from the hand-painted joinery to the organically moulded plasterwork.
Unique & Distinct Personality
The ten spacious suites across two adjacent buildings make for the ultimate retreat. Each has its own unique look and feel and features elegant king-sized beds and custom-designed bedheads.
Many suites boast breathtaking views of the sparkling waters of Wategos Beach or the landscaped greenery outside, while others include private balconies with sun loungers.
“The bathrooms are a personal favourite,” Tamsin shares. “The custom Penny tiles from TerraNova are simple and transformative, reshaping these rooms into fresh, layered spaces.” With floor-to-ceiling tile work, vintage-style curves, and coloured basins by The Water Monopoly, the bathrooms are a true design masterpiece.
Taking stock of the project, Tamsin is most proud of the property’s unique and distinct personality. “I’m proud of how we brought a sense of personality and soul into this project,” she says.
“Through the custom furnishings, detailed hand-painted elements, and mixed materiality, we’ve achieved a space that feels inviting, playful, and deeply connected to the original Raes experiences.”
Unmatched Customer Service
Patrons at Raes Guesthouses will be treated to an unmatched level of personalised hospitality. General manager Marty McCaig describes Raes Guesthouses as “a true extension of what our guests already love about Raes.”
“With two lap pools and various inviting shared areas, guests can choose to unwind privately or connect with other guests over poolside drinks,” Marty says.
The culinary experiences are another standout, with a seasonal menu curated by Rae’s executive chef, Jason Saxby, that champions fresh, local ingredients. Guests can enjoy their meals in the comfort of their suites, poolside, or communal dining rooms.
The new menu is a must-try, featuring highlights like swordfish katsu sandwiches, spanner crab tagliolini, and Negroni-soaked frozen watermelon.
Guests also enjoy direct and easy access to Rae’s Dining Room, the brand’s two-hatted restaurant, which offers a thoughtfully curated dining experience with breathtaking ocean views.
Raes Guesthouses also offers unparalleled customer service, including complimentary airport transfers, a private chauffeur service, a daily à la carte breakfast, and access to the renowned Raes Spa.
“What truly sets Raes Guesthouses apart is that it carries the same level of personalised service and exceptional hospitality that Raes is renowned for, ensuring every guest enjoys an unforgettable experience,” Marty muses.
Since its doors opened in November, the excitement around this new boutique accommodation has been palpable, placing it at the top of must-stay lists.
“Raes Guesthouses embodies a relaxed, coastal elegance, seamlessly blending Mediterranean charm with the warmth and laid-back spirit of Byron Bay,” Tamsin reflects.
PROJECT CREDITS
Interior Designer: Tamsin Johnson @tamsinjohnson
Build: JD Built @jdbuilt_
Photographer: Anson Smart @smartanson
Words: Bella Brennan @bellarosebrennan
Enjoyed our home tour of Raes Guesthouse and want to keep perving some of the most stylish places going around? See YSG Studio's latest project, Checkmate, then take a peep inside this dreamy boutique stay just outside of Orange in NSW.
