Coolum Baywatch Resort

The location is hard to beat, with stunning ocean views, and the complex was so quiet, which suited us as we didn’t want to be around partygoers. Gene made us feel very welcome and was incredibly knowledgeable. We chose to stay because we’re considering buying a unit in the complex, and I asked the onsite manager, Gene, if we could book the specific unit we’re looking at. He replied at 7.30pm, which showed how hard he works and how available he is to guests. The rest of our stay confirmed that again and again. He let us into our room before check-in time and arranged for my son’s second booking to be on the same floor when I asked. The air con was already on, and a second room key meant it didn’t have to turn off every time we went out, since the system uses a key tag slot. As a property manager I’m often disappointed by dirty rooms, but this apartment was very clean. I’d read the reviews beforehand, so I knew there wasn’t reception parking. Gene explained we could pull in beside the driveway to check in. We also saw many people briefly double-park across the road, so it wasn’t as bad as some reviews made it sound, especially for a complex of only 19 apartments. Reception is a little dark and not as modern as others, and its air con was being repaired, so check-in and checkout were stuffy. They said it would be fixed that week. Things happen, and how long do you need to hang around reception anyway? The bathroom off reception was spotless too, a real credit given it’s shared with the amazing restaurant My Place. Guests get 10% off their bill, and the food was outstanding. The pool area is private, unlike the Beach Retreat, where it’s on show to passersby. The spa is due to be replaced soon, and there are plans to redo the pool. We hardly saw anyone there, so it was almost like having it to ourselves. Our unit, 15, was comfortable and had an amazing view, though it could use a renovation. It had a new leather fold-out couch. The bed was a little worn, and if we buy the unit we plan to replace it and remodel, especially the tiles and bathroom. The convection oven worked great, the dishwasher drawer was a nice touch, and the fridge kept everything so cold. Shower pressure was brilliant, but the bath tap had seized, so we had to fill the spa with the shower head. One spa jet wasn’t working. We didn’t raise either issue with management because neither affected us and we were so happy with the stay. The washing machine and dryer worked well. The bedroom fan squeaked and just needs replacing. The bathroom and bedroom doors are slatted for ventilation, but offered less privacy than we’d like, especially the bathroom door, which we’d look at changing. I liked that the bedroom was tucked away, though, as I’m a light sleeper and it stayed dark in the morning, perfect for a sleep-in. Each unit has a designated car park, and they’re well sized and clearly marked. Ours was right near the lift, so I’m not sure why some people said there was no parking. It seems some guests doubled up. We enjoyed the rooftop, which was easy to get to from our unit, 13 and 14. It’s a shame the rendered walls haven’t been replaced with glass, as they block a lot of the view. There’s also a big rooftop section beyond the half-wall that’s wasted because you can’t access it. I’d love to see that turned into more usable space. Wi-Fi has been a problem in lots of reviews, and that was true for us too. Gene said it should be sorted very soon, though Telstra had messed up the order. The complex really is all about location.

We spent 11 nights at Baywatch recently, and our unit had been refurbished and was nice and clean. The managers were friendly and accommodating, the cost was very reasonable, and we appreciated the extra touches, especially the awesome coffee machine. These units are in a great spot with underground parking and good beach views. We’d definitely stay again.

Unit 17 at the back was quiet and right by the lift, yet still had an amazing view. It was a well-designed apartment with everything we needed, and the underground parking was great. The lady at reception was incredibly friendly and couldn’t have been more helpful. We enjoyed happy hour at the cafe out front, where everything was $5 and great value. If we come back to Australia, we’d definitely stay here again. Highly recommend it, and many thanks, Carol.

There’s secure parking onsite, which is handy since the resort is within walking distance of cafes, clubs and shops. There’s also a restaurant onsite that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The room was comfortable and had everything it needed, and the private balcony had a good beach view. The rooftop area has BBQ facilities, tables and chairs, with sails covering part of it.