An incredible part of Australia‘s scenery is the massive red sandstone known as Uluru. Called Ayer’s Rock until 2017, the two names are still often used in connection to the place. It was officially changed from Ayers Rock-Mount Olga National Park to Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park to recognize the Anangu people and their historic stewardship of the land.
Although you can camp at the park itself, not everyone is a roughin’-it-outside type — myself included. Yet, even indoorsy folks want to be able to soak in the rich cultural heritage of this space Tracking down the best hotels near Uluru means you won’t have to spend time in a tent.
From any of these accommodation options, you can explore Australia’s Red Centre. The national parks to Alice Springs or King’s Canyon – you’re sure to have a brilliant experience.
TL;DR
| Hotel Name | Star Rating | Avg. $ per Night | Location | Top Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sails in the Desert | 5 | $300 | Yulara | Free Wifi, Pool, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge |
| Desert Palms Alice Springs | 4.5 | $100 | Alice Springs | Free Parking, Pool, Snack Bar |
| Desert Gardens Hotel | 4.5 | $250 | Yulara | Free Wifi, Pool, Restaurant, Fitness Centre |
| The Lost Camel Hotel | 3.5 | $150 | Yulara | Free Wifi, Pool, Bar |
| Outback Pioneer Hotel | 3 | $100 | Yulara | Free Parking, Restaurant, Bar, Laundry Service |
Best Hotels Near Uluru
1. Longitude 131
Address: Yulara Drive, Yulara NT 0872, Australia
This luxury camp experience at Longitude 131 will make even anti-campers feel at home. This Uluru accommodation is located just outside of the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park.
You can even see the magnificent sandstone fixture from the property! There are fifteen luxurious tents arranged on the Longitude 131 property, and every single one has views of Uluru.
Longitude 131 also works with Aboriginal artists to create the artwork displayed throughout the site. The property has a spa, free parking, an outdoor pool, a restaurant and bar, and even an airport shuttle bus. However, there is no fitness center on the premises — you’ll have to get your steps in exploring the area.
Pros:
- Incredible views
- Good food
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Spa services
- Airport shuttle
- Cool blend between glamping and a hotel
Cons:
Things to Do Nearby:
See Related: Australian Outback Adventure: Driving the Red Centre
2. DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs
Address: 82 Barrett Dr, Alice Springs NT 0870, Australia
Just 15 minutes away from Alice Springs Airport, the DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs is an excellent accommodation option for those who want to be near the town. The walking distance from the downtown area makes it a top pick for a lot of travelers.
Given the remoteness of the Uluru area, it’s nice to be able to visit the park and also pop into town for the evening. The property’s room options are Double and King rooms (with or without mountain views), Junior Suites, and King Premier suites.
DoubleTree also offers WiFi, a pool, a fitness center, and a tennis court. Three on-site restaurants make it an easy spot to use as base camp for a longer trip.
Pros:
- Multiple restaurants
- Walking distance to shops and eateries
- Tennis court
- Suites and rooms available
- Free parking
Cons:
- Some rooms may be outdated
Things to Do Nearby:
3. Desert Palms Alice Springs
Address: 74 Barrett Dr, Alice Springs NT 0871, Australia
Imagine this: you’ve just finished hiking in the vast Australian outback and arrive at your hotel to melt into a lounger on a mini pool island. Well, that dream can be a reality at the Desert Palms Alice Springs!
Here, the dreamy crystal clear saltwater pool comes with its own little island, and the namesake palms surround everything. When it comes to area accommodation options, Desert Palms is a heck of a deal.
Family rooms are available for folks traveling with kiddos, and all of the rooms here are villas, so they come with kitchenettes. Desert Palms also offers free parking, a snack bar, a mini market, and incredible views of the surrounding nature. There is no restaurant on-site; however, it is within walking distance of several in town.
Pros:
- All rooms have kitchens
- Saltwater pool
- Free parking
- Walking distance to shops and restaurants
- Snack bar
Cons:
Things to Do Nearby:
4. Diplomat Hotel Alice Springs
Address: 20 Gregory Terrace, Alice Springs NT 0870, Australia
If you’re bringing kids, the best of our hotel deals is the family-friendly Diplomat Hotel Alice Springs. This spot is perfect for budget-minded travelers who mostly need a comfy place to sleep.
While it doesn’t have a lot of frills, the Diplomat Hotel still has several amenities for guests to enjoy. The pool and occasional evening live entertainment are popular reasons to choose this spot.
The Diplomat is home to both Uncles Tavern and Stumps Café for on-site eats and drinks. You’ll also find free parking, laundry facilities, and sometimes even karaoke. Plus, you’re staying in the town center, so getting around Alice Springs is a breeze.
Pros:
- Eateries on-site
- Free parking
- Outdoor pool
- Highly walkable area
- Laundry facilities
Cons:
- No fitness area
- Shuttle is paid
Things to Do Nearby:
See Related: Proven Ways to Save Money for Travel
5. Desert Gardens Hotel
Address: 1 Yulara Dr, Yulara NT 0872, Australia
Part of the larger Voyages Ayers Rock Resort, the Desert Gardens Hotel is an utterly enchanting Uluru accommodation in the unincorporated town of Yulara. The hotel features everything you need for a restful or exhilarating vacation.
You won’t mind being mostly in a remote part of the area. However if you do want to get off the property for a bit, there is a free shuttle bus available.
The Desert Gardens Hotel is aptly named, as it’s planted in the center of acres of native gardens. Plus, some of the bright and airy rooms have private balconies for more nature-gazing opportunities. Desert Gardens Hotel also has a swimming pool, room service, two restaurants, and a children’s playground.
Pros:
- Two restaurants
- Swimming pool
- Free shuttle
- Playground
- Room service
Cons:
Things to Do Nearby:
6. Sails in the Desert
Address: 163 Yulara Dr, Yulara NT 0872, Australia
Another member of the Ayers Rock Resort family, Sails in the Desert, is an Uluru accommodation only about 20 minutes from the park. This chic, five-star property is an incredible oasis.
A fitting combination of raw nature with modular rooms, Sails in the Desert is a luxurious option to stay near Uluru. The hotel has 228 luxury rooms, a swimming pool, a spa, a fine restaurant, and a lounge, making it a paradise in the center of the Australian outback.
Throughout the hotel, you’ll find art from local Aboriginal people, which brings the property to life. But Sails in the Desert doesn’t overwhelm with its vibrancy, hitting a balance between the solid-colored sails and architecture with its artistic touches.
Pros:
- Spa
- Luxurious rooms
- Shuttle service
- Seasonal pool
- Free parking
Cons:
- Buffet may have limited options
Things to Do Nearby:
7. Emu Walk Apartments
Address: Yulara Drive, Yulara, 0872 Ayers Rock, Australia
The holiday apartments at Emu Walk Apartments are located at Ayers Rock Resort. Since these are apartment-style rentals, you’ll have access to full kitchens as well as the perks of being on the Ayers Rock Resort property. This means when you don’t feel like cooking your own meals, you can visit Arnguli Grill or White Gums Restaurant!
These apartments have either a private balcony or veranda for catching those outback sunsets or sunrises. There isn’t a pool on-site at Emu Walk Apartments, but you can visit the ones at the surrounding Ayers Rock Resort properties. The resort also has paid tennis facilities, laundry services, and dry cleaning.
Pros:
- Free parking
- Two restaurants
- Access to other resort facilities
- Apartments with kitchens
- Every room has a private balcony or veranda
Cons:
Things to Do Nearby:
See Related: Best Family Travel Tips and Hacks You Need to Know
8. The Lost Camel Hotel
Address: Ayers Rock, Yulara Dr, Yulara NT 0872, Australia
Also located on the Ayers Rock Resort property, The Lost Camel Hotel is one of the most beautiful places to stay for visitors on a budget. With aesthetics inspired by local Aboriginal culture, your trip to The Lost Camel Hotel is sure to be full of exuberance.
Plus, Lost Camel has access to the other hotels in the resort complex for dining, shopping, or other amenities. Visitors staying at the Lost Camel can enjoy the spa facilities at the resort complex and/or enjoy the pool beside this hotel.
There is an airport shuttle here and free parking. The majority of the rooms include a king-sized bed which can be divided into two separate beds.
Pros:
- Access to other resort hotels
- Outdoor pool
- Free parking
- Airport shuttle
- Features local art
Cons:
- Rooms are on the small side
Things to Do Nearby:
9. Outback Hotel
Address: 2 Yulara Dr, Yulara NT 0872, Australia
Sometimes referred to as the Outback Pioneer Hotel, the Outback Hotel is the adventurer-style lodge at the Ayers Rock Resort. Guests are allowed to visit the other locations on the resort property or stick around.
At the Outback Hotel, you’ll find BBQ facilities, a pool, and three restaurants. This lodge offers a more unique experience with its outback-inspired vibe.
Dining at the Bough House Restaurant is an absolute must for guests as it serves Australian cuisine — perfect for a first trip to the country. Family rooms are available here, in addition to a free airport shuttle and free parking.
Pros:
- Three restaurants at the lodge
- Friendly staff
- Free shuttle
- Access to other Ayers Rock Resort places
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
Things to Do Nearby:
10. A Good Rest B&B
Address: 51 Dixon Rd, Alice Springs NT 0870, Australia
When you want something outside of a hotel room experience, head to A Good Rest B&B. This adorable bed and breakfast offers equal opportunity to relax by the pool or to walk around the town square in Alice Springs.
Being in town offers myriad experiences that the more secluded hotels do not. Plus, a lot of guided tours do pick-ups in town, so that you won’t be missing out.
Good Rest provides daily breakfast to guests as well as laundry facilities and luggage storage. The deluxe “room 1 option” includes a spa bath, too, for melting the stress of adventure away. This pet-friendly B&B has no pet fees, free parking, and some wellness facilities too.
Pros:
- Free parking
- Breakfast included
- Pet-friendly with no fees
- Free laundry facilities
- Pool
Cons:
- Fewer amenities than other accommodation options
Things to Do Nearby:
- Rotaract Park
- Sammy’s Pizza & Family Restaurant
- Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve
- Museum of Central Australia
- Botanical Gardens
11. Ayers Rock Campground
Address: 173 Yulara Dr, Yulara NT 0872, Australia
Who can resist the great outdoors in the heart of Australia’s Northern Territory? If your travel style allows for more rustic, camping vibes, this is the spot for you.
Only a few minutes away from Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa, the Ayers Rock Campground is an excellent option for those who want to experience the beauty of Uluru firsthand. This location is also part of the Ayers Rock Resort.
The facility offers a handful of visitor options. These include two-bedroom cabins, campervans, powered caravans, camper-trailer sites, motorhomes, and a basic tent camping space.
Ayers Rock Campground is a short walk to the Naninga Lookout, offering a picturesque view of Uluru. Overall, this place is perfect for families and backpackers – just ensure that nothing has crawled into your boots during the night!
Pros:
- Airport shuttle
- Pet-friendly
- Pool
- Restaurant
- Playground
Cons:
- No fitness area
- Extra competition with Australia’s creepy crawlies
Things to Do Nearby:
See Related: What to Bring on a Camping Trip with Friends
12. Adorable Single-Bedroom Unit With Private Pool
Just outside of Alice Springs in Gillen is an adorable one-bedroom rental with private pool access –perfect for anyone wanting a bit more privacy without outback seclusion. Get incredible views of the surrounding MacDonnell Ranges from the comfort of your own self-contained little bungalow.
It sleeps two with its own separate entrance. In addition to the private pool and outdoor space, guests can also use the backyard and fire pits, which are shared (though infrequently used) by the property tenants. Your little bungalow also has a kitchenette, but note that the kitchen does not have a conventional sink.
Pros:
- Pool access
- Mountain views
- Chic aesthetics
Cons:
- Kitchen does not have a sink
- Only sleeps two
Things to Do Nearby:
- Alice Springs Transport Heritage Centre
- Araluen Cultural Precinct
- Alice Springs Desert Park
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