The Berkley Studio

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about The Berkley Studio? It’s literally right there on Beach Road – and I mean literally, not in that annoying way people overuse the word. You walk out the front door and you’re maybe a two-minute stroll to the actual sand at Bondi Beach. But here’s the thing that surprised me: it doesn’t feel like one of those touristy beachfront places that’s all style and no substance. The building itself has this understated elegance – it’s modern without being flashy, which honestly feels pretty refreshing when you’re in an area where so many places are trying way too hard to scream “beach vibes.”

The studio setup is actually perfect if you’re the type who doesn’t want to be rattling around in some massive hotel room. Everything’s thoughtfully laid out, and I mean everything has its place. The kitchen area isn’t just for show either – you’ve got proper appliances, which is clutch because let’s be real, eating out for every meal in Bondi will absolutely destroy your budget. I stayed during peak summer (yeah, I know, rookie mistake with the crowds) and while you can definitely hear the buzz of Campbell Parade when the windows are open, it’s not the kind of noise that’ll keep you up at night. The double glazing actually works. What I really appreciated was the little details – good water pressure in the shower, blackout curtains that actually block light, and honestly the bed was comfortable enough that I didn’t wake up feeling like I’d been wrestling with the mattress all night.

The location is where this place really shines though. You’re not just near the beach – you’re in the sweet spot where you can walk to the good coffee places (there’s this little spot on Glenayr Avenue that the locals hit up, way better than the tourist traps), but you’re also close enough to catch the bus into the city when you want to escape the Bondi bubble. Parking can be a bit of a nightmare during weekends and summer, but that’s just Bondi for you – it’s not really the hotel’s fault. The staff seemed to actually know the area too, which sounds basic but you’d be surprised how rare that is. They pointed me toward Tamarama for a quieter beach day, and honestly, that tip alone made the stay worth it. The whole place has that relaxed but put-together vibe that makes you feel like you’re staying somewhere special without the pretension. At 8.8 rating, it’s clearly doing something right – and after staying there, I get it.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $270. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Superb – Josie from Austria – 24 March 2025 (9/10)

  We felt right at home in this cozy studio with Jenny going the extra mile by providing snacks and coffee and some great tips. We had everything we needed and the location was top notch! Not a single complaint!

• Whenever we are in Sydney this is where we would stay from now on !! – Cathy from New Zealand – 21 March 2025 (10/10)

  Everything … so much thought had gone into making this apartment so hospitable and lovely to stay at
  
  What could be improved: Duvet on bed was too hot and heavy and pillows too hard too but otherwise bed very comfortable

• Very good – Carole from Australia – 6 March 2025 (8/10)

  Location
  
  What could be improved: Very noisy neighbours from3.00am onwards

• Superbly located and apointed. We will be back. – Deidre from Australia – 2 December 2024 (10/10)

  Location location location!!! Right across from the Bondi pavilion
  Jenny’s place is absolutely stunning wish I could have stayed longer. Beautifully furnished, the bed was so comfy with lovely linen. Very quite private and sunny. Beach towels and bath robes were a pleasant surprise and much appreciated as was the fresh fruit and wine. Can’t wait to come back.

• Good – Anaïs from France – 3 April 2025 (7/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities