2026 is set to be an impressive year for new accomodation option arriving in Australia – perhaps even more so than 2025 which saw the arrival of Mondrian Gold Coast and The EVE Sydney. As some of the world's biggest and most luxurious brands continue to set their eyes on Australia, this year we'll see the opening of some history-making new properties. From Australis first-ever Waldorf Astoria location to the historic refurbishment of the Milton Park property in the Southern Highlands, here is your list of the most exciting luxury and boutique hotels opening in 2026.
1. Crystalbrook Sam, Adelaide
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Opening: Late 2026
In late 2026, Adelaide will welcome the arrival of a new boutique property. It's called the Crystalbrook Sam, a fresh addition to Halifax Street. It will feature 196 rooms, a high-up signature restaurant with panoramic view of the CBD and Adelaide Hills. And what is a boutique hotel without a spa? The Crystalbrook Sam brings the arrival of Adelaide's first Eléme Day Spa.
2. HYDE, Perth
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Opening: March 2026
Opening from March 2026, the 121-room hotel will open on Pier Street in Perth's CBD. It marks thefirst ground-up, purpose-built hotel globally for the HYDE group. HYDE hotels are known for their connection to creative culture and this opening will mark a defining new rhythm for Perth and Western Australia.
3. Hannah St Hotel, Melbourne
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Opened: January 2026
While the Grand Opening was technically in mid-to-late December, this hotel ramped up availabilities for the January 2026 season – just in time for the Australian Open. Located in Southbank, this 10-storey boutique property has a stunning indoor pool, 188 rooms, meeting rooms and co-working spaces.
4. Waldorf Astoria, Sydney
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Opening: Late 2026
Australia finally gets its first Waldorf Astoria Hotel, set to open in Sydney's Circular Quay. The prestige hotel group has chosen a location between the Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House with sweeping views of the harbour area. Details are still relatively scant, but early reports suggest there will be more than 200 rooms and a dramatic bar with a statement roof that offers direct access to the restaurant below. Watch this space.
5. Andaz, Gold Coast
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Opening: April-July 2026
This hotel was slated to open in 2025 but it appears to have been delayed until Q2 of 2026. Part of the Hyatt Group, this will be the first Andaz hotel in Australia. It will be a resort-style offering that caters to beachy vacationers and connect to the Star Gold Coast.
6. Ardour Milton Park, Bowral
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Opening: February 2026
Milton Park is a historic property in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales that has been in operation for decades. It's now back and with a facelift under the ownership of the same group behind Spicers Hotels. The $10 million refurbishment has been sympathetic to the history and heritage features of the property, making it the perfect destination for a country getaway with a period feel. It will start welcoming guest from 2026.
7. Elysium, Noosa
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Opened: December 2025
This luxury escape in Queensland's Noosa offers a new kind of reset design to nourish mind, body and soul. Previously, the Sofitel, the property has undergone a sophisticated renovation that has crafted a wellness-focused experience for the discerning traveller. There are dedicated wellness suites that come equipped with their own private sauna, spa and also a concierge to tailor wellness rituals around your stay.
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