Bayview Tower

The location is nice and convenient, but that was the only real positive for us. Bayview Tower charges high rates, yet the building is very old and badly in need of renovation. Our room felt tired and poorly looked after, the showers were dirty, and the rooms are outdated. For that price, the condition just wasn't acceptable. Rooms should be properly cleaned and updated before guests are charged premium rates.

For $260 a night, this wasn't worth it. The room was dated, with rust on every bit of steel, and there wasn't any water in the fridge. The ice trays were empty too. It was raining, so we stayed in for a Netflix night, but the room's internet stopped halfway through. Then in the morning I went to make coffee and found the milk had curdled.

We were very happy with Room 503. It had lovely views and was clean and comfortable, with an affordable, updated renovation. The location worked perfectly for us, an easy walk to the main beach, shops, restaurants and pubs. The staff were friendly and accommodating. I'd definitely stay again.

I loved how comfortable the room was, and the ocean view was stunning. The bed was clean and really comfortable, and the wardrobe had plenty of towels and hangers, plus an iron. The room itself gets a 10/10 from me. It was so nice I didn't feel like going out. The bright, calming colours helped, and the kitchen area had a kettle, plates and cutlery for 2-4 people, along with tea, coffee and sugar. The fridge was a good size. The bathroom was clean, but without a divider between the shower and toilet area, the floor got wet, and there was no bath mat or slippers. Bayview Tower is right by the beachfront road at the roundabout where the hill starts, so it was easy to find. It's in a lively spot with restaurants, cafés, pubs, craft beer shops, clothing stores and an IGA supermarket close by. Check-in was quick and easy. I'm not Australian and wasn't asked to show my passport. The parking garage is quite small. The pool and spa pool are on the mezzanine floor, and you need to get an access key from reception. It closes at 7 PM. I missed breakfast. It only runs from 7 AM to 8 AM, which seemed unreasonable to me. I tried to get up early but didn't make it in time. When I went down at 8:10 AM, everything had already been cleared away. I don't understand why it is only available for one hour. Reception closes at 5 PM, with no staff at the counter after that. I'm not sure how late check-in would work, or whether it's possible. That surprised me, since where I've stayed before there has usually been someone available in the evening, or at least a staff member on duty. Keep the reception hours in mind when planning your arrival. Maybe hotel operations in Australia are different from what I'm used to. The location and room quality were great, but because of the breakfast and reception hours, I'd give Bayview Tower 4 stars.