InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach

The hotel is highly regarded for its prime beachfront location, offering stunning ocean views and direct access to the sand. Guests consistently highlight the comfortable beds and the exceptional friendliness of the staff as standout features. While many appreciate the hotel's overall ambiance and the convenience of being steps away from the beach, some note that certain areas are dated and could benefit from modernization. This destination is particularly well-suited for couples seeking a romantic getaway with picturesque scenery, families looking for easy beach access and nearby activities, and sightseers who wish to explore the coastal area. To make the most of your stay, consider booking a room with an ocean view to fully immerse yourself in the coastal experience, and be aware of ongoing renovation plans that may impact future visits.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities, though guest experiences are varied. The swimming pool is noted by many as being on the smaller side and often described as cold or not heated, with some finding the area dated and lacking sufficient sun loungers for the number of guests. Despite this, some families appreciate the kids' play area and the presence of a tennis court, even if it is sometimes in disrepair. The lobby and public areas are generally seen as modern and well-maintained, providing a pleasant atmosphere. Free Wi-Fi is available and generally reported as strong, ensuring guests can stay connected. Some guests mention the convenience of a shower room for early arrivals, which is a thoughtful touch.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is generally positive, with many praising the spotlessly clean rooms and comfortable beds with high-quality pillows that ensure a restful sleep. Many rooms feature a balcony offering ocean views or partial views, which guests greatly appreciate. However, a recurring theme is that the room decor can appear tired or dated, particularly the bathrooms, which are often described as small or tight, sometimes featuring plastic baths with shower curtains and weak water pressure. Some guests also noted issues with dust, stained carpets, or unclean surfaces in certain rooms, and occasional problems with air conditioning or noise from connecting doors.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options, particularly the breakfast buffet, receive high praise from most guests. The breakfast is consistently described as excellent, offering a wide variety of hot and cold options, including freshly made coffee and delicious omelets. Many highlight the quality of the food and the attentive service from the breakfast staff. The restaurant and bar areas are generally well-regarded for their atmosphere and food quality, with some guests enjoying in-room dining options. However, some found the bar hours to be inconsistent or too early, and a few mentioned that the restaurant menu was uninspiring or overpriced for the quality received.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is overwhelmingly cited as its strongest asset, being directly opposite Coogee Beach and offering easy access to the sand and ocean. Guests appreciate being within walking distance of numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants, creating a vibrant local atmosphere. Public transport links, including bus stops directly across the street, provide convenient access to Sydney city center, Bondi Junction, and other key areas. The famous Coogee to Bondi coastal walk is easily accessible from the hotel. While the location is ideal, parking is available but frequently mentioned as expensive, with daily fees often seen as excessive by guests.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive glowing reviews for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Guests frequently commend the attentive service provided by the entire team, from the front desk to housekeeping and restaurant staff. The check-in process is often described as smooth and quick, with staff making efforts to accommodate early arrivals and special requests. Many guests highlight the staff's solution-focused approach and their willingness to go "above and beyond" to ensure a positive stay. The housekeeping is generally praised for maintaining clean rooms, and the overall impression is one of a welcoming and accommodating environment.

Additional Information
A significant point of discussion among guests is the hotel's renovation plans, with the property slated for closure for several months for a major refurbishment. Some guests experienced issues with unannounced cancellations or lack of communication regarding this closure, leading to considerable inconvenience. The hotel has a signature scent in the lobby, which many guests find pleasant. There are mixed reviews regarding billing practices, with some guests reporting unexpected credit card surcharges or pre-authorization issues that led to double charges or difficulty in refunds. The hotel provides beach towels for guest use, though availability can sometimes be limited.