What were the most popular home swaps in Australia and New Zealand in 2020? While thousands of homes were favorited, contacted, and visited this year, these 10 stand out as the ones that received the most love.
Each of these homes are unique: some are contemporary, others more traditional, some in a city and others by the ocean. The one thing they all have in common is the welcoming, generous, hospitable spirit shared by HomeExchangers. With amenities that feel like home, thoughtful touches, and great communication from hosts, these homes stood out as our members' favorites this year.
Let these gorgeous homes and dreamy destinations inspire you to plan your next vacation in 2021! Whether you travel with kids, pets, or solo, you'll inevitably find the perfect vacation house on HomeExchange.
Magnificent Homestead in Currumbin Valley, Queensland
This jaw-dropping property was originally a dairy farm, with the original dairy bales still standing today. Guests can enjoy fresh food from the orchard, vegetable patch, and chicken coop, cooking in the home's well-appointed kitchen.
"The house is just as described, a fantastic escape from the city for us and our family. Simone is an exceedingly generous host, and was happy for us to take our dogs with us which made the exchange easy. Hopefully one day we will have the opportunity to return!" —Nikki
Comfortable Family Beach House in Culburra Beach, New South Wales
Guests can watch dolphins and whales from the living room of this private, stylish, beachfront home with a cozy open fireplace and open plan living area. The garden, barbecue, and deep Japanese bath are the finishing touches on this luxurious beach home.
"This is an amazing property! It worked perfectly for our family of five with a portable cot and high chair for our baby as well. The kids loved the bunk beds. Being right on a spectacular beach was fantastic. Thanks for a lovely stay!" —Susan
Stunning Lakefront Cottage in Queenstown, Otago
This lakefront cottage boasts stunning uninterrupted lake views, a private jacuzzi, and a sun deck. The mountains and lake can be seen from almost anywhere in the house, an absolute treat for guests looking for a private getaway in nature.
Luxury Beach Home in Port Douglas, Queensland
Comfortable living areas, wading and swimming pools, and an outdoor entertainment area make this Queensland vacation home an idyllic destination. The house is a short walk from the nearest beach, for guests who can tear themselves away from the deluxe amenities and pools the home offers!
"Martin and Lorraine could not have been more helpful if they tried! They have an absolutely beautiful house in a small gated community literally 2 mins walk to the beach. We had a fantastic time and can't thank them enough...This is an absolute luxury house with enormous amounts of space, great bathrooms and good outside space with a proper Aussie barbie." —Simon
Modern Home with Stunning Views in Arrowtown, Otago
This New Zealand home swap is modern, warm, light-filled, architecturally designed, overlooking the Wakatipu Valley with stunning views. The house has all the comforts of home, including an outdoor barbecue area, Netflix and Apple TV, and ultra fast Wi-Fi.
"We had a wonderful exchange with James and Sara from start to finish. Great communication, the home is gorgeous and views unparalleled. The veggie and fruit garden was an extra treat. We had the pleasure of meeting James, Sara and their lovely kids upon arrival. They are such a nice family. Everything went wonderfully and we wouldn't hesitate to exchange with them again! Thanks again for a fabulous stay!" —Jenna
Light-Filled, Welcoming Home in Noosa Heads, Queensland
This unique home exchange is filled with light from large windows, skylights, glass doors, and soaring ceilings. Guests can savor views of the tropical garden and wildlife from a large, covered entertainment deck while staying in this private, spacious home.
"Alistair and Jenny's home was perfect and exactly as described, the location close to two beaches and the ever popular Noosa with all its attractions. Great walks and easy to travel around the region. The house was such a joy to return to in the evening and sit on the deck, easy living home with thoughtful touches, loved cooking in your kitchen a real entertaining space." —Pamela Jane
Beachfront Apartment in Central Coast, New South Wales
This sunny apartment is located on one of the world's most beautiful beaches at Blue Bay, with spectacular views and direct beach access. The modern furnishings, large balcony, and colorful bird life make this destination a getaway to remember.
"It was a real pleasure to have been able to holiday at Bruce and Linda's apartment. Bruce was very helpful and we found the apartment clean and comfortable and oh what an amazing outlook. To be able to go to sleep listening to the waves and to wake up in the morning to the views over Blue Bay and beyond - very special indeed." —Margot
Modern Family Home in Lower Shotover, Otaga
With a fantastic outdoor cooking, dining, and living area, this New Zealand home exchange is an ideal retreat for a family. It includes a sauna, outdoor TV, plenty of bikes, books, and board games, and a car can be included to make your stay as seamless as possible.
"Don and Keri were excellent hosts. The house is unbelievable - close to everything in a beautiful neighborhood with views of the Remarkables everywhere you look. Lots of space, and an outdoor area with BBQ, Fireplace and lounges - so enjoyable to relax there each afternoon. Great communication, and they left our Sydney home in spotless condition." —Lachlan
Stunning Beachfront Apartment in Coolangatta, Queensland
Relax, rejuvenate and recharge in this Gold Coast home exchange. Guests are sure to be thrilled by the white sandy beaches just a minute away, sunset views from the apartment's balcony, and lounging in the romantic, sun-drenched apartment.
"Our stay in Coolangatta was definitely one of the highlights of our round-the-world trip. We loved the spotlessly clean, beautifully furnished and well equipped apartment with one of the best kitchen views we have ever encountered." —Ines and Macky
Modern Hilltop Home in Waimarama, Hawke's Bay
This unique home has a sea view and modern, open plan architecture to enjoy the surrounding nature to the fullest. Nearby are sandy beaches, wineries, restaurants, and plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained on vacation.
"We spent three nights at Marianne's and Armando's home. After lockdown I was looking for some 'international' flavour in our own backyard... and they delivered it in bucketloads. Such a beautiful home with stunning sea views, including a sunrise. But more than that, hospitality in spades and a lovely connection to our disabled daughter, Rosie, who adored them." —Philippa
The HomeExchange community has more than 450,000 homes in 187 countries and is looking forward to welcoming you. Sign up for free and start organizing your next vacation with HomeExchange.
