The best Australian Airbnb hosts have been revealed as part of its annual Host Awards, recognising the top hosts and listings from across the country.

With categories such as Best Design Stay, Best Nature Stay, and this year’s newly created Best Family Friendly Stay, winners range from a bold and vibrant Palm Springs-inspired beach house to an award-winning luxury container on the edge of a national park offering floor-to-ceiling rainforest views, as well as a one-of-a-kind glamping shack on the shores of a pristine lake.

The 2024 Host of the Year award went to Tracey and Adrian on the Sunshine Coast Queensland, with their stunning private getaway, highlighted by modern decor and unrivalled hospitality. Their studio exudes a cosy, coastal vibe, designed to help guests unwind and relax. Visitors are also provided with complimentary kayaks for exploring local waterways.

Hosting on Airbnb enabled the couple to complete their home renovations and purchase a new off-road caravan, enhancing their ability to share their beautiful property with others while enjoying their own holidays.

South Australians Carly and Andrew took home the trophy for Best New Host for their converted Redhen railcar property, which sits amongst the vines with elevated views over Blewitt Springs, in a corner of the McLaren Vale wine region. This year’s Best Nature Stay was awarded to Rachel in Bermagui, NSW, who offers a stay focused on sustainability and up-cycling.

Carly and Andrew Shiel – Best New Host.

“Local hosts are the backbone of the Airbnb community and it’s an honour to recognise those who go the extra mile,” Airbnb’s country manager for Australia, Susan Wheeldon, said.

“Airbnb hosts create unique, welcoming spaces that are filled with thoughtful touches, providing memorable experiences for guests.

“It’s inspiring to see how these hosts promote local culture and contribute to their communities. Hosting is not just about sharing a special place, it’s also a means to support local businesses and generate additional income.

“With group bookings accounting for over 80 per cent of trips on Airbnb, there are great options amongst the winning listing for families and friends to plan the perfect stay for the upcoming school holidays.”

Winning hosts were selected based on extensive Airbnb data, guest scores, and reviews with oversight from a panel of judges including Susan Wheeldon and Host Advisory Board members, Felicity Stevens and Sarah Huang.

2024 Award winners include:

• Best Family Friendly Stay – Yo Caba Caba, Bogangar, New South Wales
• Best New Host – Redhens, Blewitt Springs, South Australia
• Best Design Stay – Palm Pavillion, Church Point, New South Wales
• Host of the Year – Private Lakeside Studio, Sunshine Coast, Queensland
• Best Nature Stay – Serendip “Shack” Glamping, Bermagui, New South Wales
• Best Room Stay – Room in Lower Plenty, Victoria