Aquarius on the Beach

Rooms are a nice size and have the basics you need, including a small kitchenette with a fridge, microwave, kettle and toaster. They’re quite dated, though, and could use some refurbishment. There’s no coffee machine, but cafes for morning coffee are nearby. The shower is in the bath rather than a walk-in, which may be difficult for people with mobility issues and could lead to slips or falls. Cleaning was a little lacking: one day the bed wasn’t made, and the bath and basin weren’t cleaned. Parking onsite was sometimes very difficult. Twice we had to use the street outside, and one night we parked quite a distance away. Still, it’s a good stay overall. The location is great, right on The Strand and opposite the water, with views toward Magnetic Island and restaurants and cafes within easy walking distance.

Our refurbished room was clean and comfortable, with absolutely amazing views. We were only there for 24 hours and didn’t use many facilities, but the building and shared spaces are clearly older and could do with an update. Before booking Aquarius on The Beach, I’d read mixed reviews about the tired building, facilities and some rooms, so I called ahead, explained my concerns and asked for a recently refurbished room for my partner and me. That call addressed the main worries I’d had. The location is a big plus, right on the beach and close to everything. The place has potential, though bringing it fully up to modern standards would cost a lot and would likely mean much higher room rates. Do your research, talk with the staff and ask for a refurbished room, and you can get good value, a great location and stunning views. Set your expectations and choose carefully, and it can be a pleasant stay.

The shower had good pressure and the bed was comfortable, and the location is wonderful. We’ve stayed at privately owned Airbnb units in the same building and had a fantastic experience, with great communication and quick replies. This booking through AirB&b was a disappointment. The listing promised daily room service, fresh towels and a tidy-up, but none of that happened during our two-night stay. The internet was so slow we couldn’t watch YouTube or Netflix, which was a shame since we like to unwind with a movie after an evening out. I messaged the staff and got no reply. The next morning, the person at the front desk was unhelpful. I came back a few hours later as requested so they could speak with the manager, and was told to turn off the TV to fix the problem. They said they knew about it, but it didn’t fix anything and it felt like they didn’t care. If you promise 24/7 communication, you need to respond, and you shouldn’t advertise services like daily room cleaning if you won’t provide them. I wouldn’t recommend booking through Aquarius airB&b because communication was nonexistent. I’d suggest a privately owned Airbnb unit in the same building if you want good service and management follow-up. Disappointed with the service and communication.

The rooms were really clean, with a nice outlook over The Strand and beyond. Parking was the problem. The hotel car park is first come, and there aren’t enough spaces. Street parking is limited too, so I had to leave my car some distance away. When I left at 4am, the back exit gates were locked and I had to wheel my luggage around the block. Not awful, just inconvenient. Bars and eateries are a short walk away.