Harbourside #31

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Harbourside #31? The address doesn’t really prepare you for what you’re walking into. Sure, it’s on Henry Lawson Ave in McMahons Point, but honestly, the moment you step inside, you realize this isn’t your typical hotel setup – it’s more like staying in someone’s really well-appointed harbour apartment, except with all the perks of proper hotel service.

The location is actually brilliant, and I mean that in the most practical way possible. You’re literally a three-minute walk from McMahons Point wharf, which sounds unremarkable until you realize that puts you about twelve minutes from Circular Quay by ferry. The ferry ride itself becomes part of the experience – you’re gliding across the harbour every time you head into the city, watching the Opera House and Bridge get bigger as you approach. I’ve stayed in hotels that cost twice as much in the CBD, and honestly, this commute beats fighting through George Street traffic any day. Plus, the wharf area has this lovely morning routine with locals heading to work and the occasional jogger – it feels like you’re part of the neighbourhood rather than just passing through.

What really sets this place apart is the attention to detail that you don’t expect from a four-star property. The apartment (because that’s what it feels like) has these floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the harbour views perfectly. I mean, you’re not just getting glimpses of water between buildings – you’re getting proper, unobstructed harbour vistas. The kitchen is actually functional too, not one of those token hotel kitchenettes. I found myself making coffee there in the mornings instead of hunting for a café, mainly because the view from the dining area made it feel like a proper ritual. The furnishings have this contemporary Australian feel without being overly designed – comfortable couch, decent workspace if you need it, and a bedroom that’s quiet despite being relatively close to the main road. Speaking of noise, the double glazing really works; I was surprised how peaceful it was at night considering you’re still in the city. The building itself is well-maintained, and parking is sorted (which, if you’ve ever driven around North Sydney, you’ll appreciate). Check-in was refreshingly straightforward – no fuss, just practical information about the area and ferry timetables. The 9.5 rating makes sense when you add up all these smaller touches. It’s not trying to be flashy or luxurious in an obvious way, but everything just works really well together. For the price point, especially considering you’re getting harbour views and genuine local convenience, it’s pretty exceptional value in Sydney terms.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $301. Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Absolutely amazing stay! – Benjamin from Australia – 15 June 2025 (10/10)

  Conveniently located apartment with incredible harbour views!

• Would definitely book again, incredible views – Liana from Australia – 6 April 2025 (8/10)

  Spectacular views
  Spacious and clean
  
  What could be improved: No aircon

• Exceptional – Ali from Australia – 20 November 2024 (10/10)

  It was a lovely apartment with an awesome view to the harbour bridge and opera house.

• Exceptional – Esther from Australia – 3 November 2024 (10/10)

  Location and view
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• A special location with awe inspiring views. – Matt from Australia – 8 September 2024 (10/10)

  Location, location, location.
  With the majority of our business being held around Blue Point Road in McMahon Point we were able to walk everywhere.
  The view from the living area and each bedroom of the Harbour was jaw dropping, only matched by the water side bench in front of the apartments.

• Superb location – Robyn from Australia – 26 July 2024 (10/10)

  Have stayed before, love the location right on the harbour, the views, and how we can catch the ferry easily across to other places

• brilliant 2 nights, fantastic view in very comfortable apartment for 2 couples – Simone from Australia – 9 October 2023 (10/10)

  incredible view, park and walk / ferry everywhere, fantastic well equipped apartment, clean, tidy and quiet
  
  What could be improved: nothing

• Very good – Dianne from Australia – 23 February 2023 (8/10)

  What could be improved: information from the company managing the apartment was confusing and sometimes contradictory. There was only one 2 seater couch in the apartment and no comfortable chairs so that relaxing for 2 people wasn't easy in the living room and especially cramped when watching television.

• Exceptional – Sandra from United Kingdom – 15 November 2024 (10/10)

• Superb – Lyn from Australia – 11 November 2024 (9/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities