The small town of Yulara is home to Ayers Rock Resort, bringing together the area’s hotels, restaurants, shops, and experiences in a small oasis amid the otherwise desolate desert landscape.
Here, you’ll find Sails in the Desert, Ayers Rock Resort’s most exclusive hotel. Its name comes from the large white sails floating above the hotel’s communal areas, providing shade from the intense Australian sun. The hotel has 228 rooms and suites, decorated with inspiration from the nature and culture of the Red Centre. You’ll also find the Mulgara Gallery at the hotel, where you can admire works by local artists.
The spacious, comfortable rooms feature air conditioning, a private bathroom, a TV, a mini-fridge, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. The décor also incorporates colourful artwork by local artists, inspired by the nature, culture, and distinctive landscapes of the Red Centre. The rooms are available with either a king-size bed or two queen-size beds and can accommodate up to four people. From your room, you can step out onto your own balcony or terrace and relax after a day of new experiences.
At the heart of the hotel lies a large outdoor swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers and shaded areas. By the pool, you’ll find Pira Pool Bar, where you can order light meals and chilled drinks while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. If your body is in need of a little extra pampering after your adventures in the Red Centre, the hotel is also home to Red Ochre Spa, which offers a range of treatments and massages. The hotel also has a tennis court if you fancy staying active.
When hunger strikes, you’ll have several options to choose from. Ilkari Restaurant serves breakfast and dinner buffets featuring a combination of international dishes and Australian ingredients. At the elegant yet relaxed Walpa Lobby Bar, you can enjoy light meals such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads throughout the day, along with cocktails and a selection of Australian wines. The hotel also offers room service 24/7.
The reception is open 24/7, and the hotel offers free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and luggage services. There is also a lift providing access to the upper floors.
As a guest at Sails in the Desert, you also have access to the many offerings and experiences at Ayers Rock Resort. A complimentary shuttle bus runs around Yulara approximately every 20 minutes, making it easy to get to Town Square, with its shops, supermarket, and cafés, as well as the resort’s other hotels, restaurants, and facilities.
Ayers Rock Resort works closely with Anangu communities on cultural education, training, and employment, among other areas. During your stay, you can take part in a range of complimentary cultural activities and gain a deeper insight into the living culture of the Anangu people. Through the Anangu Communities Foundation, the resort also supports local initiatives in Anangu communities across central Australia, focusing on long-term development and creating new opportunities for local communities.
Please note that breakfast is included in the price if you choose to upgrade to a Terrace Room or Suite at Sails in the Desert.

Joshua is our Oceania specialist. Driven by a passion for adventure, he moved to Australia in 2004, where he lived for five years. He knows the region inside out from travelling extensively across both Australia and New Zealand, and today he uses that knowledge to help others find their perfect trip.