Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel & Residences.

The view and deck were lovely, and it was nice being able to open the king bedroom window. The staff were friendly and helpful with suggestions around town, and when the elevators broke down, they gave us manual assistance because we had to get to the airport. But for three nights and four days in the residences, it wasn’t worth my money. There was a hole in the wall from a door handle, plus black, blue, red, and pink scuff marks all over the walls. The outside of the windows clearly hadn’t been cleaned in a long time, which was disgusting. The beds were worse than at a cheaper hotel we’d stayed at before. There were cockroaches in the sauna, and one fell on me as I entered the lobby. One bathroom was more dated than the other, and it had a melted hair dryer that wasn’t helpful for drying hair. The bathrooms also have unmarked slants that dip down as you exit. I tripped as soon as I arrived, and it’s a severe safety hazard, especially for someone like me who is disabled. I didn’t raise the room issues with staff because, at that price and so high up, if this was their standard for guests, I saw no point asking for another room at the same standard. I’m not sure I’d stay at a Hilton in Australia again after this. It’s definitely not the same experience as Hilton hotels in America.

The early check-in was much appreciated, and the buffet breakfast was amazing, with lots of choice and very fresh food. This was our second stay at Hilton Surfers Paradise, and everything was perfect again. My family and I had a two-bedroom apartment with beautiful views, comfortable beds, and everything we needed to relax. A special thank you to the staff who arranged a birthday surprise for my mum. We truly weren’t expecting it, and she said it was the best birthday surprise ever. It made the stay even more memorable. Everyone at reception was super friendly and welcoming, and communicating over the app was easy too. We’ll definitely be back!

I arrived at 10am after not sleeping for over a day and a half, and wasn’t expecting an early check-in. The lovely front desk staff already had my room ready and got me settled quickly and kindly, so I could sleep in a very comfortable, quiet room. The location is perfect, with the ocean to my left and the sunset to my right. I’ve stayed at Hiltons all over the world, and this is easily my favourite.

The location is hard to beat. Cavill Avenue, the beach, restaurants, bars, clubs, shopping, and the light rail are all just moments away. Check-in was smooth and welcoming, and the modern lobby made a pleasant first impression, even if it didn’t have the grand feel I associate with traditional five-star hotels. My room was modern, comfortable, and very good to stay in. The corridors felt dated beside it and could do with refurbishment. I paid about AUD $50 extra per night for Executive Lounge access, and that was the most underwhelming part of the stay. It felt more like a functional cafeteria than a refined lounge. A tradesman working on the property seemed to be using it as an office, which took away from the premium feel. There was a good selection of tea, coffee, and soft drinks through the day, but even savoury snacks or biscuits would have added something. The 2pm cakes and 5pm cocktails were enjoyable and probably the highlight. The overall atmosphere felt quieter and more retirement-oriented than executive or business-focused. Breakfast was good, though if you’re used to luxury hotels in Asia, India, or Sri Lanka, adjust your expectations. It’s more like a solid four-star international breakfast than the expansive, polished buffets at leading Asian five-star hotels. I enjoyed the stay and would happily return for the location, comfort, and convenience, but I personally wouldn’t pay extra for lounge access again. It’s a well-located and comfortable place for travellers who value convenience and modern accommodation, though the lounge may fall short if you expect a truly premium experience.