Huge buyer interest anticipated as boutique Byron Bay hotel The Sunseeker is listed for sale

The Sunseeker, a boutique Byron Bay hotel labelled on opening as Australia’s most exciting new arrival, has been listed for sale amid escalating interest in leisure-focused hotel investments in Australia.

CBRE Hotels’ Wayne Bunz and Hayley Manvell have been exclusively appointed to handle the sale of the property which opened its doors in early 2021 following a significant refurbishment before swiftly gaining recognition as Australia's sole entry in Condé Nast Traveller's ‘The Hot List 2021 - Best New Hotels’ worldwide.

Situated on an expansive 6,337sqm Bangalow Road corner site, the hotel offers 12 guest rooms, nine self-contained bungalows, a three-bedroom residence plus a caretaker studio apartment. Facilities include a mineral-heated pool with a poolside bar and cabana, fire pit, retro coffee cart, lobby library lounge, children’s playground, edible gardens and beehives.

In 2023, The Sunseeker opened The Residence, a luxurious three-bedroom house which now forms part of the hotel’s letting pool. It features its own barrel sauna, beautifully appointed bathrooms and full kitchen with signature rose quartz bench top.

“Byron Bay’s allure, coupled with its recognition as a celebrity hotspot, positions it as a highly coveted investment destination. These factors will fuel interest in The Sunseeker from high-net-worth investors globally,” Mr Bunz said.

The Sunseeker offers additional potential via a 1,250sqm vacant land parcel which has an active development approval for extra accommodation. Investors can also explore alternative options such as additional accommodation or wellness-oriented activities, subject to the relevant council planning approvals.

Currently operated by the owner’s management team, The Sunseeker is available for sale with vacant possession, providing a sought-after opportunity for owner-operators or brands seeking to enter Byron Bay’s tightly held hotel market.

“The hotel has undergone a meticulous redesign, with care taken on every detail. Experienced operators have the potential to implement various management and operational strategies to enhance efficiency, cost control and the property’s overall financial performance,” Ms Manvell noted.

The recent NSW Government approval of a 60-day cap on short-term rental accommodations starting September 2024 is also expected to positively impact the hotel market.

“Limited availability in rental accommodations is expected to drive tourists to established hotel assets, ultimately boosting occupancy and revenue,” Ms Manvell said.

Expressions of Interest in The Sunseeker are invited until March 20, 2024, unless sold prior.