Beach Retreat

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Beach Retreat? It’s actually tucked away on Pacific Street in a spot where you can still hear the ocean but you’re not dealing with the absolute chaos of the Corso. I mean, don’t get me wrong – you’re maybe a three-minute walk from all that Manly madness, but when you’re sitting on your balcony with morning coffee, it feels surprisingly peaceful. The building itself has this sort of understated elegance that works well for a 4-star place – nothing too flashy, but everything feels solid and well-maintained. Honestly, I’ve stayed at fancier places that felt more sterile, and this one just has personality.

The rooms are genuinely comfortable (I’m talking about beds that don’t leave you with a sore back), and most face toward the water, which is honestly half the reason you’re in Manly anyway. What I really appreciated was how they’ve thought about the little things – proper blackout curtains for people who actually want to sleep in, decent water pressure in the shower, and air conditioning that doesn’t sound like a jet engine. The staff seemed to actually know the area too, which is rarer than you’d think. When I asked about the best time to hit the beach to avoid crowds, the guy at the front desk gave me this whole breakdown about how locals tend to surf early morning at the north end while tourists cluster around the main beach later. That kind of insight is gold when you’re trying to make the most of your time.

Here’s the thing about the location – Pacific Street puts you in this sweet spot where you can walk to the ferry wharf in about five minutes (crucial if you’re planning day trips into the city), but you’re also close enough to the quieter end of the beach where you can actually find a decent spot to lay your towel. The Steyne is right there for when you want proper food, not just fish and chips, and there’s a bottle shop basically next door if you’re the type who likes a sunset drink on the balcony. Parking can be a bit of a nightmare during peak season – I’d honestly recommend just leaving the car wherever you can find a spot and walking everywhere while you’re here. The whole Manly peninsula is pretty walkable anyway. I stayed during shoulder season and had zero complaints about noise levels, though I imagine summer weekends might be a different story with all the backpackers and party crowds. But that’s Manly for you – it comes with the territory, and honestly, the energy is part of what makes the place special.

Rooms

• Apartment with 1 queen bed, 2 full beds and 1 sofa bed for 6 adults

Reviews

• Location is good, place is spacious, but the street is noisy at night, and parking is subpar. – Lin from Australia (5/10)

  Location is good, walking distance to Bondi beach. Place is spacious enough for a family of 4-6. Easy and helpful communication with the property owner.

• Very Good – Emma from New Zealand (8/10)

  Location was fantastic and we all had a bed each. Had everything we needed and was nice and comfortable.

• Our stay was really enjoyable and close to friends and family, we attended a family wedding close to the centre do the p – Phil from United Kingdom (9/10)

  The location was a small walk away from all amenities, incl the beach, restaurants and bars.

• The perfect beach house stay. – Stacey from Hong Kong (9/10)

  The location and layout of this property were amazing! As a group of 4 we each were able to have our own beds and sleep comfortably. Being so close to Bondi beach made our days so easy and the proximity to so many amazing cafes and restaurants is a huge asset!

• Great location, really comfortable beds. Ashley was great to deal with and really responsive re parking. Older style apa – Louise from Australia (8/10)

  Location, beds, ceiling fans. Little touches like the chocolates and access to parking.

• Very Good – Lisa from United Arab Emirates (8/10)

  Location was FAB – right next door to the Bondi Markets (for the weekend) and a short stroll to the main strip of Bondi. Being able to get the car off the street was also a huge advantage. Ash was really responsive and very helpful with any questions we had and the apartment was great value for money.

• GREAT LOCATION, HELPFUL AND ATTENTIVE HOST. WOULD STAY AGAIN – Danielle from Australia (9/10)

• So good – Liao from United States of America (9/10)

  Everything

• Great location supported by a very responsive host – Kate from Australia (9/10)

  Fabulous location. Great size

• Disappointing – Marcel from Germany (4/10)

  Locaction, superficially nice apartment. Nice decoration but all a bit dated.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities