Arthur Phillip Motor Inn

We had everything we needed for three nights in a spacious, quiet room. The blinds kept the light out nicely, so we could sleep in. The motel is tidy and laid out well, and Pauline greeted us warmly when we arrived. Her dining suggestions were excellent.

We arrived at 9pm to find reception closed, with no way to check in and no number or other way to contact management. The number displayed on the office window rang inside the office, so it clearly wasn't an after-hours contact. I was fortunate to find an after-hours contact for another hotel in town, where I made a late booking and was able to check in. That motel's manager was surprised Arthur Phillip had no after-hours contact. I was told that although most local motels don't keep their offices open 24 hours, self check-in after closing and after-hours support are common. This is especially important in a tourist area where the penguin parade is after sunset. There is no late check-in at this property, and that policy is tucked into the terms. I got no email, text, or in-app message to tell me. Management said they had my phone number, but didn't contact me about the restriction or ask when I expected to arrive. They say their office hours are clearly listed on their website and booking agency sites, but other local motels also close their offices and still offer self check-in. This place has neither late check-in nor after-hours support. I later read the other reviews and saw I wasn't the only guest charged despite being unable to check in after office hours. It seems the process still hasn't been improved. I don't think this property is serving its customers properly when it hides this unusual restriction and doesn't actively tell guests about the lack of common services like late check-in and after-hours contact. DO NOT book here when visiting Phillips island. There are plenty of cheaper motels with late check-in and after-hours contacts.

We made a last-minute booking and both owners were accommodating. It's a peaceful, quiet spot near the town and food, with a short drive to the penguin parade. Rainbow lorekeets come to visit, too. Great location, and we'd definitely return.

We knew from the photos that the rooms had an old-school style, and the place turned out to be one of the cleanest, best motels we've stayed in. The beds and pillows were really comfortable, and the blackout blinds helped make it very quiet. Reception was friendly, too. Great location, and booking direct got us a cheaper price.