Sometimes it's nice to be spoilt for choice. Music, love interests, weekend plans... But other times it's nothing more than a huge inconvenience, masquerading as something positive. I, for one, have found that when it comes to making travel plans, choosing where to stay can be an overwhelming task – especially when you're as picky about interiors as I am.

No one wants to go on a vacation to stay in an ugly, cramped, low-energy spot in a poorly situated locale. Location, location, location is not an age-old adage for nothing – and it's gotten to the point where I practically plan trips around the Airbnb or hotel find – not the other way around.

And, like you, I've done the hard yards, trawling through 87+ pages of search results trying to find the perfect holiday rental for my next trip. But if you're tired of the endless scrolling, the RUSSH team have decided to share their insider intel, and pass along our curated list of the best NSW Airbnbs to book for your next trip.

1. Panoramic Views & Beach Front Fairy Bower (Manly, NSW)

At a glance: 6 guests, 2 bedrooms,4 beds, 1 bath

Best for: This top-floor apartment in the heart of Manly is our premier choice for our next beachside retreat, boasting breathtaking panoramic views over Manly, Fairy Bower, and Shelly Beach. It features a charming two-bedroom layout, with every room offering uninterrupted vistas of the pristine Northern Beaches, a spacious original kitchen, and an open plan living area that effortlessly flows into a versatile lounge with a fold-out sofa bed for extra guests. Step out onto the balcony to enjoy al fresco dining at a six-seater table, all while soaking up the relaxed coastal vibe and direct access to the promenade and beach.

2. Sandstone Cottage (Great Mackerel Beach, NSW)

At a glance: 6 guests, 3 bedrooms, 6 beds, 2 baths

Best for: This sunlit sandstone cottage on Mackerel Beach is a timeless coastal retreat – a literal 10 metres from the water and only an hour's drive from Sydney CBD. You'll have access to both the main house and a separate studio that comfortably accommodate up to six adults, and enjoy panoramic views of Pittwater, Lion Island, and Palm Beach.

3. Solina (Ettalong Beach, NSW)

At a glance: 8 guests, 3 bedrooms, 4 beds, 2 baths

Best for: If you've ever dreamed of hosting cocktail hour in a sunburnt 70s-style conversation pit, then Solina, an ultra-modern new waterfront property at Ettalong Beach might just be your speed. With a name that translates to “Little Sun”, this three-bedroom home inspired by mid-century architecture, features teak décor, floor-to-ceiling windows, a sunken living area with smart TV and Sonos, a premium kitchen and dining area, manicured gardens, an off-street car space, and has all linens provided (just mind the tenant upstairs).

4. The Longhouse: Suite 2 (Pokolbin, NSW)

At a glance: 4 guests, 2 bedrooms, 2 beds, 2 baths

Best for: This is one I'd bookmarked for a girls trip to the Hunter Valley region – just think: long days spent in the vineyards, cool nights spent fireside overlooking the mountains, quiet mornings taking in the lake from the kitchen with a coffee. It's got all the luxuries your girls trip could want – professionally laundered linens, a private BBQ area, a firepit with wood and lighters provided. No off-roading, no bush-bashing, just serenity and a glass of local wine.

5. Fishcakes (Seal Rocks, NSW)

At a glance: 7 guests, 3 bedrooms, 4 beds, 1 bath

Best for: Seaside getaways don't get more pristine than this spot perched on a sand dune at Seal Rocks – about two hours' drive from Newcastle. Designed by award-winning architects, this spot features three separate sleeping pavilions that encircle a private, wind-protected courtyard. For the cooks, there's an understated open kitchen with gas cooking, and a nostalgic combustion fireplace. This place is also pet-friendly – so feel free to bring the pups in tow.

6. Mill Cabin (Crackenback, NSW)

At a glance: 2 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bed,

Best for: A wintery couples retreat is best set in this luxury granite cabin overlooking the Snowy Mountains. For the ultimate retreat, this spot is completely off the grid and harnesses its own energy supply from solar and catches rainfall for water supply – perfect for those committed to treading lightly. Outfitted with Hunter Lab soaps and creams, Cultiver linens, custom ceramic dinnerware and a fully equipped kitchen with a gas cooktop and electric oven, you'll find you're not lacking in any luxuries here.

7. Seatons (Tathra)

At a glance: 6 guests, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths

Best for: If your ideal escape involves slow mornings, ocean swims and evenings spent by a crackling fire, Seatons delivers on all fronts. Nestled in Tathra on the Sapphire Coast, the light-filled beach house borders a wildlife reserve, making it easy to swap your morning scroll for a bushwalk before heading to the beach or your local coffee spot. Cosy interiors, comfortable beds and a wood-burning fireplace mean it's just as inviting in winter as it is in summer.

8. The Studio (Pokolbin)

At a glance: 2 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bath

Best for: Set on a historic family farm in the Hunter Valley, The Studio was originally built in the 1990s from salvaged and recycled materials, the space has lived many lives since then — from an artist's studio to a lavender farm gift shop — before becoming the charming accommodation it is today. Surrounded by vineyards, walking trails and native wildlife, it's an idyllic base for exploring the region's wineries and, while still offering plenty of reasons to stay put. Expect sweeping rural views, and the occasional visit from the property's friendly dogs, horses and cattle.

9. Firefly Creek Farm Dairy Stay (Barrington Coast)

At a glance: 2 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bath

Best for: Surrounded by rolling hills on the Barrington Coast, The Dairy at Firefly Creek Farm is a thoughtfully restored farm stay that invites you to slow down and settle into country life. Set on a 40-acre working flower farm, the one-bedroom cottage pairs rustic charm with modern comforts, from a crackling wood fireplace to an outdoor clawfoot bath overlooking the surrounding paddocks. Spend your day wandering through the gardens, collecting fresh eggs and herbs, exploring the nearby creek or simply soaking up the quiet with a good book on the deck.

10. Round House Retreat (Coolagolite)

At a glance: 2 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bath

Best for: Tucked away on 13 acres of bushland just outside Bermagui, The Round House Retreat proves that tiny living doesn't mean compromising on design. The cabin is both cosy and contemporary, complete with a king-sized bed, wood-burning fireplace and a newly renovated kitchen. But it's the outdoor experience that steals the show: an open-air bath and shower invite you to soak beneath the stars, while the surrounding native landscape makes you feel worlds away from anyone else. Just a short drive from Bermagui's beaches and cafés, it's the perfect base for a weekend getaway.

Looking for more than just the best NSW Airbnbs? Check out our curated accommodation lists for the coolest retro motels or the boutique hotels in Sydney to visit.

Feature images via Airbnb.