Harbourfront Art Deco Hall – Sought-after in Sydney

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about the Harbourfront Art Deco Hall? The name actually delivers – this isn’t some marketing gimmick slapped onto a generic hotel. Walking up to the building in McMahons Point, you’re immediately hit with those gorgeous geometric lines and that cream-colored facade that screams 1930s glamour. I mean, McMahons Point itself is one of those Sydney neighborhoods that feels like a secret – tucked away from the tourist crowds but honestly offering some of the best harbor views in the city.

The location is pretty brilliant, actually. You’re right across from Circular Quay, but without the chaos of being in the thick of it. I could walk to the ferry terminal in about two minutes (seriously, I timed it), which means you’re connected to everywhere but still sleeping somewhere quiet. The rooms themselves have this really thoughtful Art Deco restoration going on – not the over-the-top Hollywood version, but more like what a well-traveled architect from the era might have actually lived in. The staff seemed genuinely proud of the place during check-in, pointing out little details like the original elevator buttons and the way they’d restored the lobby’s terrazzo floors. That 8.6 rating makes total sense when you experience it.

What really got me was stepping out onto the small balcony areas – depending on which room you get, you’re looking straight across at the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, but from this angle where you feel like you’re discovering them fresh. Early morning is magical here; you can hear the first ferries of the day churning across the water, and there’s this soft light that hits the harbor before the city fully wakes up. The building has maybe 30 rooms (I’m guessing based on the intimate feel), so you’re not dealing with massive tour groups clogging up the lobby. Parking can be a bit tricky – this is Sydney, after all – but there’s street parking that’s actually manageable if you’re not arriving during peak times. I stayed during a quieter period in autumn, and honestly, it felt like having a stylish friend’s apartment right on the harbor. The 4-star rating feels right too – it’s polished and special without being stuffy or trying too hard to impress. If you want to feel like you’re staying somewhere with genuine character while still being steps from everything Sydney has to offer, this is exactly the kind of place that makes you want to extend your stay.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $158. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• It was a memorable stay. Great views, great location and very friendly staff. – Tony from Australia – 24 June 2024 (9/10)

  The location was brilliant. The property was clean and well kept.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing all good.

• Great stay, million dollar views. Hosts were very helpful and responsive. Would highly recommend! – Wesley from Australia – 19 February 2024 (9/10)

  Best harbour views, right next to the water. Loving the art deco vibe. Cafes and bars nearby. Short walk to Lavender Bay and Luna Park. Well equipped kitchen
  
  What could be improved: Slight downside due to no air-conditioning. Fans were ok. Additional toileteries would have been great. Carpets abit dated. Allow time for ride hails to arrive at the accommodation as it is slightly away from north sydney

• Apartment ideal for us close to great cafes and restaurants. Excellent views of the harbour. – Graeme from Australia – 28 February 2024 (8/10)

  Location and the Harbourview
  
  What could be improved: Needs a good clean in wet areas

• Good – Jamie from New Zealand – 19 June 2024 (7/10)

  Fantastic views of the Harbour Bridge especially as we were there whilst the Vivid Light show was on
  
  Good selection of Cafes and restaurants close by
  
  Easy walk to Ferry or the the train station

• Very good – Leane from Australia – 18 July 2024 (8/10)

• Exceptional – Peter from Australia – 26 June 2024 (10/10)

• Exceptional – Julia from Australia – 12 October 2024 (10/10)

• Good – Julian from Australia – 24 October 2024 (7/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities