‘Slate Serenade’ A Cosy Bondi Beachside Getaway

Hotel Description

So I stumbled across Slate Serenade during what was supposed to be a quick weekend in Bondi, and honestly – it completely changed how I think about staying near the beach. You know how most beachside places are either total tourist traps or way too expensive? Well, this one’s different. It’s tucked away just enough from the main Campbell Parade chaos that you’re not dealing with backpackers stumbling past your window at 2am, but you can still roll out of bed and be on the sand in literally three minutes.

The whole vibe is this perfect mix of coastal and sophisticated – think weathered timber meets carefully chosen art pieces, nothing too precious but everything feels intentional. The rooms have these gorgeous slate accents (hence the name, I guess) and the beds are actually comfortable, which you’d be surprised how many boutique places get wrong. What really got me though was stepping onto the balcony with my morning coffee and seeing the ocean between the buildings – not a full frontal view, mind you, but enough to make you feel like you’re really *there*, you know? The sound of the waves is constant but not overwhelming, sort of like the world’s best white noise machine.

Here’s what I love about the location – you’re close enough to walk to Icebergs for a proper swim (the locals go early morning, trust me on this), but you’re also a quick stroll to the quieter end of the beach where families hang out. The staff actually know the area too, which is refreshing. When I asked about good coffee that wasn’t touristy, they sent me to this little place on Glenayr Avenue that I never would’ve found otherwise. Parking’s a bit of a dance – there’s no dedicated spots, but the street parking isn’t terrible if you’re not visiting during peak summer madness. Check-in was smooth, none of that awkward hovering while they figure out their system.

I mean, look – it’s not perfect. The walls are a bit thin, so you’ll hear your neighbors if they’re having a big night, and the shower pressure could be better. But honestly? These feel like minor quibbles when you’re waking up to salt air and can grab fresh sourdough from the bakery down the street before most of the city’s even awake. The whole experience feels authentic in a way that’s getting harder to find in Sydney, especially anywhere near the water. It’s the kind of place where you’ll actually want to hang out in your room instead of just crashing there between beach sessions.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $216. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Lovely location and apartment – Matthew from United Kingdom – 17 February 2025 (8/10)

  Great space and comfortable
  
  What could be improved: No air con and very poor communication from the owner. It was not clear whether we should be communicating with the letting company or an individual, but both were not good at communicating.

• Absolute Empfehlung! Alles war perfekt! – René from Germany – 18 April 2024 (10/10)

  Alles war perfekt! Wunderschöne Wohnung mit super Lage! Absolute Empfehlung!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities