Byron Bay’s iconic Beach Hotel sells for A$140 million
The Beach Hotel in Byron Bay, affectionately known as ‘The Beachie’, has changed ownership in a A$140 million deal making it the second-highest sale price for a pub in Australian history.
The acquisition was confirmed late Wednesday by MA Financial Group’s Redcape Hospitality, with Group CEO of Johns Lyng Group, Scott Didier, named as the new owner.
“The Beach Hotel is a special place, and the team has thoroughly enjoyed being a part of its history,” managing director of Redcape Hospitality Chris Unger said. “The sale not only delivers a strong result but also marks an exciting new chapter for the Beach Hotel and we are sure it will continue to thrive as a beloved part of the Byron Bay landscape under the guidance of the Didier family.”
The transaction was brokered by John Musca of JLL.
The Beach Hotel has long been a fixture in Byron Bay’s social and cultural life, frequented by locals and visitors alike—including Hollywood actor and Byron resident Chris Hemsworth. Originally established by television personality Delvene Delaney and her husband, producer and actor John “Strop” Cornell, the pub was developed during the 1990s at a reported cost of A$9 million.
It made headlines in 2019 when it became the first Australian pub to be sold for A$100 million. That deal saw MA Financial Group secure the 4,585 square metre beachfront site, encompassing both the freehold and operational components.
At the time, Dan Brady, CEO of MA Financial Group, said, “The acquisition of both freehold and operating interests will enable the required capital investment to further enhance what has made the hotel iconic – that is, a great community gathering place with a fun, sociable, friendly and safe hospitality offering delivered by an engaged and passionate team of local hospitality professionals.”
The sale follows an increase in competition in the New South Wales pub sector, and comes hot on the heels of the record-setting A$160 million purchase of The Crossroads Hotel in Casula in 2022. A higher-priced deal for The Oaks Hotel in Neutral Bay reportedly reached A$175 million the same year, although that transaction ultimately did not proceed.
Jonathan Jackson, 29th May 2025
