THE PLACE
The iconic Aussie beach hotel was built in the 1970s during boom tourism. It grew in popularity and expanded through the 80s and 1990s. It has the best views at Airlie Beach and it is easy to understand why it was so popular. Some of the common areas had become a bit outdated by 2019, since 2012 was the last time they were renovated. It was now time to learn new tricks. Reception and lobby now have a modern marble front desk. The pool, restaurant, and bar areas are updated with a fresh, modern feel. The marina adjacent, purchased in 2013, is also part of this burgeoning resort.
THE LOCATION
The resort is located on the coast, on a headland to Airlie Beach’s left. It offers views over Airlie Bay and the Whitsundays. You can walk five minutes to Airlie Beach town. But if you are looking to relax and enjoy the ocean, this is the place to be.
THE SPACE
The hotel was designed to take advantage of the stunning Coral Sea setting. The reception is open to all guests. There are bars, a spa, and an open-air restaurant located around the large central pool. Guests can lounge on bean bags and drink in their hands around the pool. You can also find a spot to sit amongst the palm-tree-lined coast and watch the sun set. On the artificial beach with its cute, striped umbrellas in black-and white, or on the grass that attracts the antisand brigade, you can settle down under the matching, black-and-white-striped umbrellas. Even a private jetty is available, as well as a swing that invites guests to take photos. Non-guests can also be invited, with day passes available for $25 per person to the “Pool Club”, which grants access to the pool as well as a popular “Poolside Sunday Session”, featuring a live DJ.
THE ROOM
These rooms have been given a fresh lease of life with a coat of paint and new flooring. The rooms have a beach resort feel and are light and spacious. They also include a kitchenette, retro furniture and a bathroom. The main attraction is the large balcony with hammock and spa bath that overlooks the water. I am visited by sulphur-crested birds of prey (who might have been expecting to share my breakfast from the balcony).
FOOD
To take advantage of the beautiful views from my room, I order room service immediately. My breakfast arrives promptly two mornings later. I order sourdough bread with avocado, feta, and tomato along with a soy flatwhite. I head down to “The Rocks” for dinner, a new restaurant that overlooks the sea and pool. The views are just as beautiful as the delicious salmon cooked with red pepper salsa and panfried spinach with spinach and prawns. A warm and friendly staff completes a great meal.
STEP OUT
Although Coral Sea isn’t central, Airlie Beach is five minutes away. There are many restaurants and bars available. La Tabella Trattoria is the best for Italian cuisine and Fish D’vine is a popular choice for seafood. Their new marina is located to the west of the hotel. They offer day trips to the islands and other unique activities to entice visitors to get off the beaten path. Whitsunday Paradise Explorer is a new tour that takes you to the area through the eyes and traditions of the Ngaro people. This trip includes ancient rock paintings, ceremonies, and the exploration of inlets, beaches, and rainforest boats cannot reach.
THE VERDICT
This charming resort on the coast is delightful with its spacious rooms, inviting pool, great atmosphere, and breathtaking views of the Whitsunday coastline.
THE ESSENTIALS
Rates starting at $295 per night for rooms 25 Ocean View Ave, Airlie Beach, Queensland, Ph: (07) 4964 1300
HIGHLIGHT
You can easily spend a few hours relaxing on the balcony of the room from your hammock. You can also do this from the bean bags by the pool.
LOWLIGHT
I’m in the only room without a phone to call room service. To call reception, I must use my mobile phone.
