Harbourside #15

Hotel Description

Look, I’ll be straight with you about Harbourside #15 – it’s one of those places that completely caught me off guard in the best way possible. You know McMahons Point, right? That little slice of North Sydney that most tourists never even think about? Well, this spot on Henry Lawson Avenue is honestly a bit of a hidden gem, and I mean that without all the usual travel writer BS. The moment you walk out the door, you’re literally two minutes from the harbour foreshore, and not the crazy touristy bit – I’m talking about the quiet stretch where locals actually hang out and where you can see the Opera House without fighting through selfie sticks.

The building itself is pretty typical Sydney apartment block stuff, nothing fancy, but here’s what actually matters: the views from most rooms are absolutely mental. I stayed in a harbor-facing unit and honestly spent way too much time just staring out at the water. The apartment was clean and functional – think IKEA meets beachside rental, which sounds terrible but actually works. The kitchen had everything you’d need if you’re the type who hits up the Woolies down the road (and you should, because eating out in Sydney every night will bankrupt you faster than pokies). Parking was surprisingly sorted, which anyone who’s driven in Sydney will tell you is basically a miracle. The only real downside? The walls are a bit thin, so if you’re next to a party crowd, you’ll know about it – though to be fair, McMahons Point isn’t exactly party central.

But here’s why this place actually works: you’re positioned perfectly between the city chaos and the northern beaches vibe. The 7:30 AM ferry from McMahons Point wharf – literally a three-minute walk – drops you at Circular Quay in about twelve minutes, and there’s something genuinely magical about commuting to the city by boat instead of being crammed into a train. Plus, you’ve got Blues Point Reserve right there for morning runs or evening drinks, and the local café scene is surprisingly solid without being pretentious. The whole area feels like where actual Sydneysiders live, not where they put tourists. Is it luxury? Not really. Is it a 3-star that punches above its weight because of location and that view? Absolutely. I’d definitely stay again, especially if you want to feel like you’re living in Sydney rather than just visiting it.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $213. Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Nice View but would stay somewhere else. – Sarsha from Australia – 21 August 2024 (6/10)

  The view and location were amazing. Convient ferry service out the front was the best
  
  What could be improved: The shower seemed to run out of hot water after using it for a very short time. We thought it was broken at first and it was very hard to contact the owner who has outsourced his contact line. The apartment was also freezing as there was a small very old electric heater provided that you practically had to sit on to feel. The elevators also weren't working at this time but we didn't find it about this until shortly before our stay.

• Superb – G from Australia – 24 March 2025 (9/10)

  The veiw is breath taking and the photos do not give it justice, they are worth the cost compared to expwnsive hotels. The ferry being so close was also great. Great location. The room was cosy but updated and really nice and clean
  
  What could be improved: Aaah the pillows were terrible. They were so big and was impossible to sleep. Had I had my time again I would have contacted host straight away who were lovely and im sure they would have fixed it. The apartment building very run down but the room was updated and beautiful.

• Speechless and easy transport to circular key – Igor from Australia – 14 February 2025 (10/10)

  Location is stunning clean
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Not recommended – Ute from Germany – 17 March 2024 (5/10)

  No breakfast, apartment – View fantastic.
  
  What could be improved: Location, away from the city, ferry neccessary – expensive. – Complaints about defects in the room were not answered. The charged service Charge was not justified. – The use of the bathroom was annoyable: no hand shower and a ridiculous small sink. The whole price for the apartment was not justfied.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities