The Palms Motel (Formerly Flinders Motel)

The bathroom was clean, but very cramped, just like the family room. It was clean too, and fine if all you need is somewhere to sleep.

We had to change our original hotel booking at the last minute, and Flinders had a room available. The owners kindly let us check in early so the kids could be comfortable, and they were very courteous. There are kitchen and laundry facilities, and the Thai restaurant next door was delicious. Show your room key there for a discount. The stay was peaceful and welcoming, the beds were comfortable, and it was very affordable. We'd happily come back. Loved it.

The staff at The Palms Motel were lovely and helpful. It's in a convenient spot, and the recent renovations look fantastic. I'd definitely recommend staying here.

I like that motor inns are having a revival, and the fresh exterior here made a good first impression. After that, though, I was disappointed. I just want a hot shower, comfortable bed and TV, and for the price I expected more. The mattress was awful, an old spring one with a worn cover, and the pillows were lumpy. The room was small, though that didn't bother me much. At reception I was told to keep the bathroom door shut while showering so the fire alarm wouldn't go off. An exhaust fan in the window would be an easy fix. You can almost see the escarpment, but there are three cranes around the property. On a weeknight, the construction noise from 7am would be hell. Noise was already a problem: constant highway sound, drunk people at 3:30am, and a teenage football team up early, making the place smell of Lynx Africa. Please replace the mattresses. After reading the reviews, I understand a 20-year-old mattress had apparently seen plenty of use by the hour. If I stay in the Illawarra again, I'll try another motor inn or pay extra for the Mantra.