Brisbane’s best Airbnb and Stayz lodgings

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Check out these 10 short-term rentals in Brisbane with a unique twist.

While an influx of new and innovative hotels has overtaken Brisbane’s city skyline, sometimes it’s nice to have it feel different from a hotel and instead, get into the groove of the city with a stay in someone’s home.

That’s where a getaway to an Airbnb Brisbane or Stayz Brisbane property comes in.

From beach shacks to eco-pods and even a converted church, we’re voting these the best of the river city’s private rentals.

1. The Old Church, Brisbane City

You’ll be hard-pressed to get Hozier out of your head when you step through the ornate breezeways of this heritage-listed church Airbnb in Brisbane City.

Built in the late 1800s, the entire home has been renovated in keeping with the tradition of the church that it once was.

You’ll love the attention to detail – the high ceilings, stained-glass windows, and appropriately themed furnishings blend in beautifully with a modern makeover, including all of the creature comforts that you’d expect from luxury accommodations.

With four beautiful bedrooms and two bathrooms, The Old Church is the ideal place to stay for a Brisbane family holiday. Within walking distance to Suncorp Stadium, South Bank, and the city, this holy abode is for those who want to stay close to the action.

Unique feature: A renovated old church

Price: Three nights minimum at $355 per night

The Old Church at Brisbane City, Airbnb Brisbane
This well-preserved heritage church is perfect for a luxury getaway.

2. Dolphins at Sunset, North Stradbroke Island

Whatever your previous notions of the Cast Away life might have been, scrap them, because this Amity Point beach house on North Stradbroke Island is about to change everything.

Sure, days spent to and fro-ing from the salty seas is enough of a reason to book a chunk of time at this luxury holiday home, but throw in sunset dolphin visits at your own private fishing jetty? Now that’s island living.

Boasting three spacious bedrooms sleeping up to six guests, it’s a home for the whole family to enjoy. Featuring wooden framed sliding windows throughout, along with a great kitchen that leads to an outdoor entertaining area, Dolphins at Sunset brings the outside, inside.

Unique feature: Resident dolphins splash at your backdoor

Price: Two nights minimum at $1020 per night

Dolphins at Sunset on North Stradbroke Island, Airbnb Brisbane
Catch sweeping sea views right outside your windows.

3. Inner City Haven Eco-pod, Spring Hill

An incredible example of enviro-luxury, this architectural masterpiece is one of the greenest homes in Brisbane and is located smack bang in the beating heart of the city.

Decked out with all things eco-friendly and sustainable, you’ll find patterned solar screens, organic oils in the bathrooms, and open-air light rooms. This is your chance to live the life of luxury, and to see how sustainability looks and feels.

The eco-pod is designed to be intimate and romantic – don’t be surprised if you catch a glimpse of your partner in the shower while you’re lazing around in the comfortable king-sized bed. You’re invited to embrace and revel in this openness.

There’s also an eco-plunge pool; superb on those steamy Brisbane summer nights.

Unique feature: Demonstrates the principles of sustainable housing

Price: Two nights minimum at $272 per night.

Inner City Haven Eco-pod at Spring Hill, Airbnb Brisbane
Experience sustainable living at Inner City Haven Eco-pod.

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4. River House, Norman Park

Located just 4km from the CBD, this tropical Queenslander riverfront house has a beautiful lawn and deck entertaining areas right on the river with amazing city views and stunning sunsets.

With six bedrooms and three living sections, there is plenty of space without feeling like you’re on top of anyone. Add this house to your list if you have a group get-together coming up.

Unique feature: Tropical Queenslander with riverfront views

Price: Three nights minimum at $1200 per night

whitewashed interior at River House Norman Park, Airbnb Brisbane
Live your beach Boho fantasy at the River House, Norman Park.

5. Homey, Restored Queenslander Cottage, Auchenflower

If it’s a dose of history you’re looking for, kick back on the verandah of this 110-year-old heritage-listed Queenslander’s working cottage with stunning bird’s-eye city views and modern perks.

Boasting beautifully detailed features like paneling, ornate ceilings, and antique furniture abound, mixed in with bright, woven rugs on stripped wood floors, together they complete the vintage look. This charming, restored Queenslander is a wonderful option for friends and families.

Unique feature: A 110-year-old heritage-listed Queenslander

Price: 1 night minimum at $250 per night

charming cottage at Homey, Restored Queenslander Cottage, Auchenflower
A quintessential country cottage that conveys rustic comfort.

6. The Boho Hut Anstead Tiny House, Anstead

Set on three acres of bushland, gardens, and lawn, the Boho Hut is a unique timber slab hut that will encourage you to reconnect with nature.

With just one bedroom, an indoor log fireplace, and elegant decking with luxury and vintage pieces to furnish, it’s a cosy retreat for couples.

Wallabies graze on the grass most early mornings and king parrots, owls and kookaburras will be your visitors.

Unique feature: Timber slab hunt furnished with luxury pieces

Price: One night minimum at $175 per night

rustic home, The Boho Hut Anstead Tiny House, Anstead
A tiny rustic home in the middle of the forest.

7. Brookfield Retreat, Brookfield

This large 60’s inspired sanctuary is a huge resort-style home designed for entertaining and having fun on 2.5 acres, down a quiet lane.

You’ll find a log-burning fireplace and a wonderfully large retro Games Room equipped with a tournament-size billiard table (12ft) and a connecting cinema room.

Equipped with a bar, indoor heated spa, pool, outside entertainment area, and seven bedrooms, this space is best suited to corporate groups, friends, and families wanting to relax whilst surrounded by nature in a tranquil location.

Unique feature: A large 60’s inspired sanctuary surrounded by nature

Price: Five nights minimum at $1281 per night

swimming pool at Brookfield Retreat, Airbnb Brisbane
Loung by the side of the pool at Brookfield Retreat.

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8. Iconic pad with infinity pool overlooking city, Fortitude Valley

For a taste of luxury, head to this five-star resort in one of Brisbane city’s most iconic buildings, FV by Pepper.

The stylish and conveniently positioned apartment (moments from Brisbane’s best nightlife) comfortably accommodates up to four people and has access to the heated pool overlooking the city.

With fabulous restaurants and cafes on your doorstep, this city escape is a dreamy option for couples.

Unique feature: Set in a five-star resort right on the edge of the city,

Price: Three nights minimum at $159 per night

Iconic pad with infinity pool overlooking city, Fortitude Valley
Escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

9. Sea Cottage, Beachmere

Situated in the coastal village of Beachmere on the peaceful waters of Moreton Bay, the interior decoration of Sea Cottage is inspired by sea shells, driftwood, and the wandering beachcomber, designed to bring inside the surrounding white sandy beach and sea views.

With five bedrooms including a large sea-facing veranda and a ten-seater table, the house is cosy for one family but just as good for two families or friends.

Guests are encouraged to swim, kayak, windsurf, boat, paddleboard, fish, take a relaxing stroll, or sun-bake on the white sandy beach. This is a pet-friendly Airbnb in Brisbane.

Unique feature: Seaside theme, next to the beach.

Price: Three nights minimum at $195 per night

beachfront restaurant at Sea Cottage, Beachmere
Beachfront dining overlooking the gorgeous seascape.

10. African Escape, South Bank

If you’re looking for an Airbnb in South Bank Brisbane, check out this luxury home in the clouds filled with African charm.

With breathtaking views of the Brisbane River and Story Bridge from the 38th level, floor-to-ceiling glass which opens onto the balcony, and a convenient location near all the local attractions – this is the city accommodation jackpot.

The African decor is truly unique, adding a fun and interesting vibe. It’s the perfect romantic city break.

Unique feature: Luxury home on level 38 with African charm.

Price: One night minimum at $371 per night

bedroom with city views at African Escape, South Bank
Catch stunning views of the city from your cosy bedroom.
For more places to lay your head, check out this Brisbane accommodation guide.

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Jemma Fletcher
Based in sun-kissed Brisbane, Jemma Fletcher is an accomplished writer, editor and content manager. Armed with a Bachelor of Journalism from The University of Queensland, as well as over a decade of tourism marketing experience, Jemma now specialises in freelance travel writing and has a soft spot for the beauty of Queensland. Her expertise has been honed through her previous roles as Chief Editor of Queensland.com and WeekendNotes.com and she is the passionate creator of High Cup of Tea, an online directory celebrating Australia's finest high tea experiences. After growing up in the UK (hence her love for tea and scones) and a delightful chapter in Sydney, Jemma loves to explore quaint towns with a rich history. Also high on her weekend list is tasting the local cafe scene, enjoying charming farm stays with her young family and deciding where her next travel adventure will be (half of the fun is in the planning!)
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5 of the best Sunshine Coast day trips

    Kate Bettes Kate Bettes
    City buzz, gourmet trails, surf breaks and art scenes are all at your fingertips.

    When it comes to planning a trip, picking a holiday destination is the easy part. The real dilemma is where to set yourself up for the night. Do you go coastal, city, or countryside? Somewhere remote and rugged, or right in the action? Luckily, the Sunshine Coast, and huge number of amazing Sunshine Coast day trips, have kindly made the choice for you.

    Ditch the hotel-hopping and suitcase-lugging. Instead, base yourself at Novotel Sunshine Coast or Mantra Mooloolaba, where big-city culture, vine-covered valleys, and theme parks are all within a two-hour drive.

    1. Sunshine Coast to Brisbane

    Drive time: 1 hour 20 minutes (105km)

    Shake off the sand from your sandals and swap the beach for the throb of the Queensland capital. Ease in gently with a bougainvillea-filled stroll through South Bank, iced latte in hand, before cooling off at Streets Beach lagoon – Brisbane’s answer to the coast (but without the waves).

    Once firmly in big-city mode, hit up the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), home to Australia’s largest collection of modern and contemporary artworks. Dive into the past at the Queensland Museum, where prehistoric fossils of Australian dinosaurs and megafauna collide with First Nations cultural collections and interactive science exhibits.

    All this learning got you hungry? Howard Smith Wharves calls. Here, riverside dining delivers breweries with meat-forward menus, Japanese fine dining and overwater bars. If you’ve got room for more, Fortitude Valley’s shopping boutiques await you and your wallet.

    woman walking around Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)
    Wander the Gallery of Modern Art. (Image: TEQ)

    2. Sunshine Coast to the Scenic Rim

    Drive time: 2 hours 15 minutes (170km)

    Make your way inland to the Scenic Rim for the state’s best vineyards and age-old volcanic slopes. Start your day early (like, sparrow’s breakfast early) at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat in Lamington National Park. Here, take a treetop walk through the canopy and hand-feed the wild birds who flock here.

    Next, it’s your turn to eat. Here, the food scene operates where locally sourced produce is an expectation, not an exception. Order a picnic basket crammed with regional wine and cheese to devour next to the creek at Canungra Valley Vineyards. Or perhaps a grazing platter of vegan and non-vegan cheeses at Witches Falls Winery.

    Feeling bold? Tackle the Twin Falls circuit in Springbrook National Park. Or keep the gourmet life going with a Scenic Rim Brewery tasting paddle, best enjoyed while taking in the rise of the Great Dividing Range.

    woman with cheese and wine at Witches Falls Winery
    Enjoy a cheese platter at Witches Falls Winery. (Image: TEQ)

    3. Sunshine Coast to the Gold Coast

    Drive time: 2 hours (180km)

    Surf, sand and sparkling skylines might be the Gold Coast’s MO, but there’s more to Surfers Paradise and beyond. Kick things off with a beachfront coffee at Burleigh Heads, then hike through Burleigh Head National Park to look over the ocean and whale sightings (dependent on the season, of course).

    Cool off in the calm waters of Tallebudgera Creek before chowing down on the famously buttery Moreton Bay bug rolls at Rick Shores. Travelling with the kids? Then you can’t miss Australia’s theme park capital, with Dreamworld’s big rides and Warner Bros. Movie World’s Hollywood treatment at hand to keep the family entertained.

    aerial view of Tallebudgera Creek
    Dive into Tallebudgera Creek. (Image: TEQ)

    4. Sunshine Coast to Tweed Heads

    Drive time: 2 hours 15 minutes (200km)

    Dare to cross enemy lines? Then welcome to New South Wales. Tweed Heads blends the laid-back attitude of the Northern Rivers with high-quality dining, experimental art, and farm-fresh indulgence – a combo worth the drive.

    Start strong with a long, lazy brunch at Tweed River House, then swing by Tropical Fruit World for exotic finds like red dragon fruit, handfuls of lychees and black sapote. Next, hit M|Arts Precinct – an art deco hub of micro galleries, artist workshops and one-off boutiques.

    Round off the day with sunset drinks at Husk Distillers among the glowing cane fields, and order one with their famous Ink Gin. You’ll thank us later.

    exterior of Husk Distillers
    Taste the famous Ink Gin at Husk Distillers. (Image: Destination NSW)

    5. Sunshine Coast Hinterland

    Drive time: 1 hour (70km)

    Strap on those hiking boots and make tracks inland, where volcanic peaks, misty rainforest and hinterland townships beckon. Ease in with the Glass House Mountains Lookout Walk, or, if you have energy to burn, tackle the Mount Ngungun Summit Walk for a 360-degree sight of the surrounding summits.

    Next: Montville. This township delivers European-style architecture and old-world appeal. Nearby, settle in at Flame Hill Vineyard, where a large pour of estate-grown wine comes with encompassing views of the countryside.

    Not ready to leave the hinterland villages just yet? Of course not. Meander past art galleries and indie shops at Maleny. Nab some fudge from Sweets on Maple for a sweet fix. Or go salty at Maleny Dairies with a farm tour and a chunky wedge of their deliciously creamy cheese.

    End the day among the eucalypts and rainforests of Kondalilla National Park. Here, the Kondalilla Falls Circuit winds down through trees humming with life to a rock pool beneath a waterfall – as if designed for soaking tired feet before heading back to the coast.

    view of Mount Ngungun on the scenic rim queensland
    Take on the Mount Ngungun Summit Walk (Image: TEQ)

    Start planning your Sunshine home base at all.com.

    Best Brisbane Airbnb And Stayz Lodgings | Australian Traveller