Stayed for 2 nights for our wedding anniversary and appreciated the lovely handwritten postcard and bottle of bubbles from Sophie and the guest experience team. The updated rooms are spacious and the decor is inviting -loved the long bench and swivelling tub chair. We didn't pay the extra for an ocean view, but the light coming in from the 6th floor balcony door looking across a school and playing fields was nice and it was quiet. The rooftop pool is lovely when you want a break from the beach which is just outside the door. Enjoyed the buffet breakfast with simple but fresh and plentiful fare with a wide variety to choose from and it's very reasonable with the Accor Plus member discount. The new bar, 55 North is fabulous and we enjoyed the complimentary cocktail during happy hour. Dinner at Tokyo Joe's was great and all the staff were friendly and helpful. There are 2 small lifts and one was out of service for most of the time, but it was a minor inconvenience, and we were happy to use the stairs if the wait got too long.
You do need to to use the basement hotel parking if you drive as there is no street parking more than 2 hours anywhere nearby.
The location is just amazing - the walk to Shelley Beach is wonderful on a fine day and lots of shops, cafes and the ferry to the city are just around the corner. We would definitely stay again for a special occasion.