Balmoral Sands – Landing in Paradise

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Balmoral Sands? The name actually makes sense once you’re there – it’s not just marketing fluff. Walking up to this place on The Esplanade, you immediately get why they went with “Landing in Paradise.” I mean, you’re literally steps from Balmoral Beach, and honestly, if you’ve never been to this particular stretch of Sydney harbor, you’re missing out on one of the city’s best-kept secrets.

The hotel sits right in the heart of Mosman, which – let’s be real – is one of those suburbs that feels worlds away from the tourist chaos of Circular Quay, but you can still catch a ferry into the city whenever you want. The Esplanade itself is this gorgeous tree-lined street that curves along the water, and Balmoral Sands just feels like it belongs there. It’s got that relaxed, almost village-y vibe that makes you forget you’re in a major city. The beach across the street isn’t your typical Sydney harbor beach either – it’s got this protected netted swimming area (they call it the baths), and the water’s usually calm enough that you’ll see families with little kids splashing around even when it’s choppy elsewhere.

What really gets me about this place is the attention to detail that you only notice when you’re actually staying there, not just passing through. The staff genuinely seem to know the area – like, they’ll tell you the best time to grab coffee at the little café down near the rotunda, or mention that Tuesday mornings are perfect for the coastal walk to Chinaman’s Beach because it’s less crowded. The rooms have this comfortable, lived-in feeling without being stuffy or overly formal. You can actually open the windows (revolutionary concept, I know), and if you’re lucky enough to snag a harbor-facing room, well… let’s just say you’ll understand why people pay Sydney prices for water views.

The whole Mosman area has this thing where it feels exclusive but not pretentious – you’ll see people in designer athleisure walking their dogs next to families having picnics, and somehow it all works. Taronga Zoo is literally a 10-minute walk if you’re into that, and the ferry wharf puts you about 20 minutes from the city by water, which beats fighting traffic on the Harbour Bridge any day. Plus, and this is crucial – parking around here isn’t the nightmare it is in other parts of Sydney. The hotel sorts that out, but even street parking is doable if you know the tricks.

I’ve stayed in plenty of 4-star places that felt like they were trying too hard, but Balmoral Sands has this effortless thing going on. It’s polished without being stuffy, comfortable without being boring. The kind of place where you might extend your stay just because you’ve gotten attached to your morning routine of coffee on the esplanade followed by a swim in the baths. That 10/10 rating isn’t just about thread count and marble bathrooms – it’s about finding a place that actually enhances your Sydney experience instead of just providing a bed to crash in.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $491. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Exceptional – Jarryd from Australia – 18 March 2025 (10/10)

  The place was immaculate, pictures don’t do it justice. Everything was clean, and easily accessible. Right next to plenty of restaurants and directly across from the beach you can’t ask for much more. Craig and Elisha are amazing hosts and very friendly.
  
  10/10
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• The view is amazing. . Gorgeous styling . Great coffee /cocktails across the road – Libby from Australia – 4 March 2025 (10/10)

  Location and cleanliness were perfect .
  Long lunch at the betel leaf was sensational and just down the rd! Lots of cafes walking distance in the area
  Craig the owner is lovely
  
  What could be improved: The only thing would be the bedroom fans make a weird wobbly noise , but only on higher settings .

• Stunning and delightful property – Jenny from Australia – 9 January 2025 (10/10)

  We loved everything about Balmoral Sands. The whole property was super clean, had everything you would need for a long or short stay, the beds were so comfy and the views were to die for. We couldn't have asked for a better view, so close to shops, restaurants and of course, the stunning beach. We will definitely be back,
  
  Jenny
  
  What could be improved: Loved it all

• Exceptional – Samuel from United Kingdom – 5 June 2025 (10/10)

• Exceptional – Casey from Australia – 29 April 2025 (10/10)

• Exceptional – Lorraine from Australia – 11 April 2025 (10/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities