Do you smell that? It’s the smell of salty ocean air, poolside sangrias and sun-drenched backyards, which means summer is just around the corner.
Together with Hometime, we’ve hand-picked places around New South Wales that promise a summer getaway like no other—from a two-storey villa with immaculate views across Rose Bay, to a riverside retreat tucked away in the countryside.
These holiday homes have the advantage of being professionally serviced by the crème de la crème of Airbnb hosts, specifically chosen by Hometime, to ensure smooth sailing from start to finish.
Check out some highlights below and start planning with your travel buddies to beat the summer rush.
Villa Mayakoba | Caves Beach
Pack your bathers and flit off to Villa Mayakoba, a slice of heaven that gives off Los Angeles vibes with palm trees abound and a refreshing, full-length pool to lounge in for hours. Also equipped with a cabana and a BBQ, the outdoor area will soon be home to countless memories gathered around the table chowing down charred pineapple and snags. To walk off the feast, a 15-minute stroll takes you right to the beach if a frolic in nature’s pool is more to your liking. Book your stay here.
Recommended while you’re there: explore the caves but be careful as they’re only accessible at low tide.
La Vie En Rose | Rose Bay
The luxurious La Vie en Rose lives up to its name, offering a prime vantage point to watch the sun set over Australia’s most renowned harbour. The 10-guest, two-storey villa has been styled to within an inch of its life, making it the perfect backdrop for those tiddly 7pm group snaps. While you have a private pool and glorious alfresco dining spots on hand, this Mediterranean-style oasis is located a mere five-minute drive from Bondi Beach, so those post-swim naps will feel extra special. Book your stay here.
Recommended while you’re there: a night of casual Italian dining at Totti’s.
Bridgehampton | Catherine Hill Bay
Bridgehampton is destined to please all types of travellers in your friend group. Located a short 10-minute stroll from Moonee Beach, this luxurious holiday home has scenic bushland hikes and picturesque coastal walks on its doorstep. The plunge pool on the second level of Bridgehampton will have everyone rummaging for their towels, while the theatre room will have everyone rummaging for the popcorn. Book your stay here.
Recommended while you’re there: spend a day at the Rainbow Caves, also known as the “cotton candy caves”.
Urban Sky Terrace | Sydney CBD
Rally a crew of up to eight mates and treat yourselves to a night on the town—or rather, in the town, as Urban Sky Terrace is as close to central living as it gets. Within walking distance of Darling Harbour, Paddy’s Markets and Chinatown, this envious two-floor apartment has its very own sky-high rooftop terrace to spend those warm summer nights and two separate living rooms for unwinding after a leisurely, Sangria-fuelled stroll around the city. Book your stay here.
Recommended while you’re there: copious dumplings at Din Tai Fung.
Harbour Lights | Wickham
You won’t get lost finding your way back to Harbour Lights, a building that you’d expect to see featured alongside Troye Sivan’s home in Architectural Digest (it was actually featured in Hunter Lifestyle Magazine). Be wowed by all the bells and whistles as you live out your life of luxury at this three-suite stunner, including the coveted rain showers—perfect for a warm reminder of the winter drizzle you left behind. Book your stay here.
Recommended while you’re there: put your taste buds into overdrive at Flotilla.
Bonnie View | Bombira
Don’t let the impressive billiard table and fireplace fool you, Bonnie View is more than prepared for your summer festivities—namely with its glorious in-ground swimming pool and mountain views fit for a sunset. Situated three kilometres north of Mudgee, Bonnie View is the place to be if you’re looking for a serene, uninterrupted break from the city. Book your stay here.
Recommended while you’re there: tour the wineries in Mudgee.
Harbour Bliss | Cremorne
Nothing makes it feel more like summer than staring out across Sydney Harbour with a warm breeze kissing your skin. Harbour Bliss is the exact place to live out that moment—its proximity to Sydney's CBD means you get the best of both city living and harbourside hangs. Soak up 180-degree harbour views in this Scandi-inspired luxury apartment, sip wines on the breathtaking balcony or gather your group for a night at the nearby restaurants and bars on Military Road. Book your stay here.
Recommended while you’re there: take a harbourside stroll around spectacular Bradley's Head.
River Ranch | Riverlea
The most unique summer getaway you’ll have in New South Wales, River Ranch takes you back to simpler times, where rope swings lined the riverbanks, and rubber doughnuts would send you sailing downstream as you nursed a can of cold Passiona. The stunning rural home, with its secluded balcony and familiar interior, is a must-visit to experience that carefree summer of days gone by. Book your stay here.
Recommended while you’re there: feed the adorable alpacas.
Get your summer holiday planning underway. Check out more 5-star properties over at Hometime.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Hometime and proudly endorsed by Urban List. Thank you for supporting the sponsors who make Urban List possible. Click here for more information on our editorial policy.
Image credit: Hometime.