The Bonobo by Raes - New hotel in Byron Bay, Australia

A Vibrant Location in the Heart of Byron Bay

Located on Jonson Street, right in the center of Byron Bay, The Bonobo by Raes places guests at the crossroads of the destination’s creative energy, local culture, and relaxed coastal lifestyle. Surrounded by independent cafés, boutiques, galleries, and just moments from the ocean, the hotel offers a unique perspective on Byron Bay, combining the convenience of a central location with the tranquility of a thoughtfully designed sanctuary. The property has been created as a social and lifestyle destination rather than simply a place to stay. At its heart, a central courtyard brings natural light, fresh air, and greenery into the hotel, creating a peaceful gathering space where guests can slow down, reconnect, and experience the laid-back rhythm that defines Byron Bay.

A New Hospitality Concept by the Raes Collection

Opened in June 2026, The Bonobo by Raes represents a new evolution of the renowned Raes hospitality philosophy. Part of the celebrated Raes portfolio, the hotel brings more than three decades of Byron Bay hospitality expertise into a contemporary and more accessible urban setting. Designed as a lifestyle precinct where accommodation, dining, and wellness coexist, The Bonobo introduces a more flexible approach to luxury hospitality. With 74 rooms and residences, the property has been imagined for travelers seeking both the comfort of a boutique hotel and the freedom of a private retreat. The concept reflects the spirit of modern Byron Bay: creative, wellness-focused, and connected to nature, while offering the refined service and attention to detail that have defined the Raes name for decades.

Modernist Architecture and Natural Interior Design

The Bonobo by Raes showcases a striking architectural vision by Australian architecture firm Richards & Spence. The building’s modernist brick facade creates a distinctive presence on Jonson Street, while the design carefully balances contemporary architecture with the natural environment through its open-air courtyard and connection to greenery. The interiors were created by Manifold and Birdy Catalano Interiors, combining sophisticated simplicity with the relaxed elegance of Australian coastal design. Natural materials, warm textures, and earthy tones create a welcoming atmosphere throughout the property, where every detail has been considered to evoke comfort, authenticity, and timeless style. The result is a contemporary retreat that feels deeply connected to Byron Bay’s creative identity, blending modern architecture with a sense of calm and understated luxury.

Stylish Rooms and Residences Inspired by Coastal Living

The Bonobo by Raes features 74 rooms and residences designed to provide a refined yet relaxed stay in the heart of Byron Bay. Each accommodation category has been carefully designed to combine contemporary comfort with a residential sense of space. The interiors reflect the hotel’s overall design philosophy, with natural textures, warm colors, and elegant finishes creating bright and inviting environments. Thoughtfully designed layouts allow guests to settle into the space, whether visiting for a short coastal escape or an extended stay. The residences offer an enhanced feeling of home, making them ideal for travelers looking for greater flexibility while enjoying the services and atmosphere of a luxury boutique hotel. The combination of privacy, comfort, and sophisticated design creates a seamless transition between hotel living and residential hospitality.

A Culinary Experience Led by Jason Saxby

Food and drink at The Bonobo by Raes are curated by Jason Saxby, executive chef of the acclaimed two-hatted Raes Dining Room, alongside head chef Callum Gray. Their approach celebrates relaxed dining, seasonal produce, and the distinctive flavors of Byron Bay. At the center of the hotel, the Lobby Lounge welcomes up to 110 guests and transforms throughout the day, moving effortlessly from morning coffee and casual breakfasts to long lunches, evening cocktails, and late-night gatherings. The menu reflects a playful yet refined approach to modern Australian cuisine. Signature creations include the Bonobo Club Sanga, featuring pork cotoletta finished with brown butter dragoncello mayonnaise, as well as zeppole served with burnt honey custard. Guests can also enjoy The Bonobo Lager, brewed exclusively for the hotel, alongside a native-ingredient cocktail selection created in collaboration with Brookie’s gin.

A Transformative Wellness Experience with Eset

Wellness takes center stage at The Bonobo by Raes through its exclusive partnership with eset, marking the brand’s first expansion beyond its Double Bay studio. Designed as a journey of connected rituals rather than a traditional spa environment, the wellness space invites guests to explore a holistic approach to recovery and relaxation. The experience includes traditional cedar saunas, ice baths, a eucalyptus steam room, magnesium baths, and vitamin C-infused showers. A private treatment room offers LED light therapy, facials, and restorative body treatments designed to support relaxation and rejuvenation. The Circuit introduces a communal contrast-therapy experience for small groups, while two private rooms allow guests to enjoy a more personalized wellness session. Together, these experiences create a modern wellness sanctuary inspired by balance, recovery, and mindful living.

A New Icon of Contemporary Byron Bay

With The Bonobo by Raes, Byron Bay welcomes a new destination where architecture, hospitality, gastronomy, and wellness exist in perfect harmony. More than a hotel, it is a lifestyle experience designed around connection, creativity, and the simple pleasure of slowing down. From its modernist architecture and thoughtfully designed interiors to its culinary experiences and innovative wellness rituals, The Bonobo captures a new expression of Australian luxury, one that feels authentic, relaxed, and deeply connected to place.

We love The Bonobo by Raes for:

– Opening in June 2026 in the heart of Byron Bay
– 74 rooms and residences designed for contemporary coastal living
– Modernist brick architecture by Richards & Spence with interiors by Manifold and Birdy Catalano Interiors
– All-day dining and cocktails at the Lobby Lounge curated by Jason Saxby and Callum Gray
– Exclusive eset wellness space with saunas, ice baths, steam room, magnesium bath, and restorative treatments
– A lifestyle destination combining hospitality, design, food, and wellness under one roof