Azabu Retreat & Spa

I chose Azabu for a birthday getaway based on the advertised “Brekkie & Champagne” package and the promise of a peaceful, boutique retreat experience. Unfortunately, the stay fell well below expectations. The main issues were: • No consistent hot water – I experienced cold showers on multiple occasions despite running taps for over 10 minutes. • Ongoing construction noise – drilling and contractors were working near my room early in the morning, despite being told there would be no works on my final day. • The advertised day spa was not operating. • Maintenance concerns – the shower knob detached while adjusting temperature, there was initially no proper hanging space, and the clothing rack later collapsed. • Website inconsistencies – the Champagne & Breakfast package was still promoted but not delivered. To be fair, once issues were raised, staff did attempt to rectify some matters. Hot water was eventually restored, additional hanging space was provided, and the on-site manager acknowledged the situation and expressed that the experience was not up to standard. The setting itself has potential – the rainforest surrounds and pool area could be lovely in the right circumstances. However, at present, the property does not reflect a 4-star boutique standard and requires clearer communication, updated marketing, and improved maintenance consistency. I hope management follows through on improvements, as the property could be a genuinely relaxing retreat with better operational oversight.

While I was looking for a place to celebrate my birthday, I came across Azabu. At first glance, I absolutely loved it. It looked beautiful and very inviting, so I decided to book it. However, after booking, I started reading the reviews and honestly became a bit worried, as many of them were quite harsh. Once I arrived, I completely fell in love with the place. The reviews were far more brutal than fair. The property is wonderful, and the pool is an absolute delight. I stayed for one night. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the view was lovely and relaxing. Overall, it was absolutely worth it, and I am very glad I trusted my first impression.

My partner and I stayed here just this weekend. The only positive I give is that the bed was very comfortable. When we arrived for check in there was nobody at the front counter. All there was a envelope with my partners name on it with room key. On booking my partner was advised that breakfast was included in our booking . No breakfast was provided at all. Also the advertise that you can get a massage. No staff around to tell us how we go about organising that if we wanted. The room it self was ok . Comfortable bed although our toilet set was broken and a few of the floor boards are rooting through.

Asuka was amazing , my friend Nikki was injured and couldn’t do stairs . In 3/4 hr Jon, Steve , Victor and Jamie re furnished the massage room which was being renovated to a beautiful furnished bedroom , gorgeous bathroom . Wow guys , you knocked it out of the ball park 1000 % Thank You SO MUCH . Bell birds , peacocks , kookaburra s . So hinterland beautiful and so close to Byron bay you guys are incredible. Bless you for your thoughtfulness . Nikki and Pam

Location absolutely zen, but that was it. Room was old, broken, unloved and no attention to anything. This included broken shower head, tiles missing, holes in wooden floors that were mould hidden by trip mat. They said daily service of room didn’t happen at all in 3 days, no breakfasts available all stay, provide your own toilet paper if you run out, zero hospitality, cold hot tub, dirty pool. Very disappointed but can’t complain about service as there was none! Wished we hadn’t booked this place the minute we walked in as it’s nothing other than the seclusion to offer. Has a lot of potential if some love and money was spent and owners were present ever!