Clarion Hotel Mackay Marina

Breakfast was a highlight. The big breakfast and avocado toast were excellent, and the pancakes were tasty, though the banana was a little under-ripe. Staff were friendly and accommodating, and arranged a late checkout for us. We stayed one night. The room was clean and comfortable, but a bit aged. Check-in was frustrating: staff couldn’t find our booking at first, and the room wasn’t ready at the advertised 2 pm, so we waited about an hour. There was no streaming on the TV, the bar had only a limited choice of juices, and the parking area felt a little unsecured without a boom gate. Still a pleasant stay, with a few small things that could be improved.

The restaurant hours were a drawback. It’s closed on Monday nights and doesn’t serve lunch, and the menu seemed unchanged from my visit a year ago. Luckily, several places to eat are only a five-minute walk away. If the restaurant were open more often and had more variety, I’d have given a higher rating. The rooms definitely deserved five stars. I got a warm welcome, and there’s free parking. My clean room had a stovetop kitchen and tea and coffee facilities. Guests can also use the laundry room on the same floor for free.

The front desk and housekeeping team were both wonderful. Whenever I had a question or an issue, they were quick to help. A great place to stay.

The views are the best Mackay offers, and the rooms are clean. Meals are very nice, the amenities are great, and the staff are friendly and helpful. Most rooms have a washer and dryer, or guests can use the free laundry. The car park does fill up sometimes, but street parking is available. Always a lovely stay.