As we drive into the entrance of Swell Byron’s open gateway under a bright blue sky on a sunny Summer’s day, the wonder of what lies ahead starts to percolate. This same modest entrance once welcomed guests in its former life as an unpretentious beach motel for the many that stop-over in Byron for the waves, sun and surf.

Now, the property has undergone a transformation by its new owners into a 16-room adults-only hotel where interiors showcase the creativity at the heart of this small town. At Swell, expect relaxed Byron vibes with a touch of luxe in the design details. 

At Champ we are particularly fond of motel renovations, primarily because of the sustainable aspects but also because of the energy that remains in an existing building and the visitors that once walked through those doors. Byron Bay attracts free-thinkers and creatives, and most specifically, those drawn to the ocean and its globally-renowned surf spots.

Swell is positioned in the heart of Byron Bay, walking distance to the beach and its city centre of clothing stores, restaurants and cafes just 1 minute by foot from the hotel.

The Swell team – through their internationally-experienced lens and local knowledge, give the best curated recommendations catered for each guest. But why not stay and unwind on-site? Garden suites have meditative seating spaces outside each room, and there are plenty of alfresco spaces at the communal areas of the hotel where a caravan caters small bites from. These are private for hotel guests only, as is the intimate bar lounge. In-rooms, the mini bar has been curated with all-Byron or Hinterland-made goods, a great chance to discover new products and makers. 

A modern beach motel with all the extras, Swell Hotel is the place to unwind and recharge, with an ozone magnesium pool, ice bath and infrared sauna for guests to utilise during their stay. Retro 88 longboards are available for guests to use complimentary to try out the world-famous Byron surf a 5 minute walk away. 

Daily yoga in the Swell Tipi is a new offering, with daily classes at 8 or 9am included for guest stays (booking required) with Slow Flow Yoga and Yin Yoga sessions on varying days to ensure guests get the wellness experience they need.

There is also a treatment room that comes at an extra charge (with a masseuse on call and a Medi-Lux Medical grade LED light session available), but gym access is complimentary (one session per stay) with Mahi Health Club, Byron Bay’s luxury wellness destination, walking distance to the hotel. There, guests can use the state-of-the-art gym, pilates classes or discover (at an added cost) the P.E.M.F (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) Mat therapy, compression therapy that enhances circulation, and red light bed to assist reduce inflammation and improve overall skin health. Swell have limited number of passes available each month, so bookings for the gym and class sessions are recommended in advance.

General Manager Sorcha Horgan is always bringing some new energy and events to the hotel. There is live music on Saturday nights in the garden, and once a month the hotel also hosts afternoon music ’Sunday Sessions’ in the tipi for both guests and locals to connect at. With some of the best DJs at their sessions, and an irresistible margarita happy hour, if your hotel stay times in with this event, you’re in luck! Otherwise, there is always a bout of live music at the local pub which always ensures a good time. 

Local designer Nyree Mackenzie worked on the interiors at Swell Hotel creating a very signature aesthetic blending coastal charm with 70s-inspired nostalgia for a very refreshing bohemian-luxe feel.

Mackenzie worked with local interior design stores and their designers to ensure the hotel supported its surrounding local community as much as possible, sourcing from Bodhi, Argentinian-handmade rugs from Pampa and coconut shell lighting by Bisque. 

Curious textured lighting found throughout the hotel is designed by Matthew Woodfield of Marovo Island Traders, his wall sconces and overhead lighting is created from fossilised coral found on his home in the Solomon Islands. Ethereal photographic artworks found in rooms are by George Santoni.

A relaxing respite away from the kids, Swell present something just for the adults. 

With a solid wellness offering, this is an ideal place to unwind and reconnect with oneself (or your significant other) both at the hotel or at Byron’s Main Beach just minutes away from the hotel. For those looking to switch off and rejuvenate, Swell is the place to book. Time slows down to enjoy the simple things, because guests are now on Byron time. 

Swell Hotel
11 Butler Street,
Byron Bay, New South Wales, 2481

Visited and reviewed by: Champ Editorial Director Monique Kawecki
Images: As credited, Champ Creative©