Review: InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach

InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach brings five-star luxury to the Eastern Suburbs beach.

It may be controversial, but as a Sydney local, I would pick Coogee over Bondi any day of the week. This lively coastal suburb in the Eastern Suburbs supplies enough dining, drinking and boutique shopping options to keep one entertained beyond the beach. Though golden sand and relatively calm waters make beach days (or a day spent at Coogee’s historic ocean pools) enticing. Now, the five-star InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach, which opened in December 2025, brings an elevated stay to the heart of Coogee.

Slip into contemporary luxury, while maintaining the relaxed coastal charm this suburb is known for.

Where is InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach?

InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach club intercontinental balcony — Enjoy ocean views from almost everywhere, like the Club InterContinental balcony.

It’s been a few years since I was lucky enough to live in Coogee, but this trip down memory lane has left me with intense nostalgia. InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach is just steps away from the beach itself, and I cannot express how much of a delight it is to spend a lazy morning wandering over to Grumpy’s Bakery for a croissant and coffee, then enjoying it as you wander along the famous cliff-front coastal trail towards Bondi (don’t worry, you can turn around at any time). Or a casual Sunday Sesh spent at Coogee Pavilion on the waterfront. Or an evening dining in one of the excellent restaurants or bars.

Of course, now that I’ve experienced InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach, I’d be just as satisfied skipping the afternoon and evening options, opting instead for poolside cocktails and restaurant delights.

What is the style and character of InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach?

InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach exterior and infinity pool — It’s all about bright and neutral coastal luxury.

It’s all about bright and neutral coastal luxury at InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach. After opening in December after a multi-million-dollar transformation – designed by global architecture and design studio Woods Bagot – a series of thoughtfully considered spaces have been created, shaped by the light and landscape of Coogee.

The ocean itself is used as the centrepiece, with views from the pool deck to the balconies that wrap around the rooms, and framed by every window.

What facilities does InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach have?

Èliva Spa

At the holistic Èliva Spa, the philosophy is rest, recovery and invigoration. And boy, did I. Here, contemporary techniques are mixed with nature-led therapies. The aim is to offer a more immersive and personalised wellbeing approach than the traditional spa model. That starts from the moment you meet your masseuse, when they help you craft your own massage oil from apothecary-esque glasses. It’s a very fun touch.

I started with a massage, and I’ve just started hitting the gym again, so the poor masseuse had her work cut out for her. With all the knots in my shoulders gone, it was on to the thermal facilities. This was my absolute highlight. If the pool is where I’d be all summer, this is where I’d be all winter (or year-round, if I’m honest).

Think magnesium mineral pools, infrared and salt saunas, cold plunge baths and a crystal steam room. There’s also a dedicated recovery lounge, with things like PEMF infrared masks, LED facial masks, compression boots and vitamin C-infused showers.

Infinity pool and terrace

InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach infinity pool — The infinity pool is a dream.

It’s entirely possible this is the best hotel pool in Sydney. An infinity edge shows off views of Coogee Beach below. Planters, canopy palms, coastal grasses and native species help to blend this elevated space into the nature surrounding it. In the summer, it would be difficult to tear me away from this spot.

Alas, I have arrived in winter, so swimming is out of the question for a wimp like me (though the pool itself is heated). But it’s a sunny day, and the private cabanas and sun lounges around the pool deck still make it an inviting space to linger – particularly with a poolside restaurant and bar.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

Club InterContinental

This is the same exclusive, premium lounge experience offered at select InterContinental Hotels & Resorts. But with a distinct Coogee difference. This discreet sanctuary unfolds as a series of interconnected spaces for different purposes – including a fully private, open-air terrace. Which is exactly where we were enjoying breakfast when a couple of humpback whales decided to put on a show, leaping out of the ocean behind Coogee Beach. From where I sat with my partner, we had a perfect, magical view.

Here, a decor palette of sun-washed tones, organic textures and subtle nautical touches is bathed in natural light. It’s truly an inviting space, and the staff are incredibly friendly. Wander through to find comfortable lounges, low coffee tables and quiet nooks. Be sure to pop in for a complimentary afternoon tea, or twilight drinks with a selection of wines, cocktails and canapés.

Pickleball courts

Keeping up with current sporting trends, two pickleball courts will soon be added for guest use.

Gym

An on-site 24-hour fitness studio features elliptical machines, treadmills, stationary bikes, free weights and more.

What are the rooms like at InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach?

InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach living area in Ocean Front Suite — Take in ocean views from a suite.

The InterContinental Sydney Coogee offers 198 rooms and suites that each uphold a coastal charm, but make it luxurious. Rooms come in Classic or Premium with all the basic amenities you could need, keeping it minimalistic, but classy, with some looking out onto the beach or the pool. Opt for Premium to enjoy a balcony (it’s absolutely worth it, waking up to a tea on your balcony with the beach below). While premium suite options (The Pacific, The Coastal, The Signature and Pool View) maximise indoor-outdoor living with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies. Spend an afternoon reading in a deep, comfy lounge by the window, enjoy a separate living area, and some even boast an outdoor bathtub.

What is the dining like at InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach?

Shutters Restaurant & Bar

Shutters restaurant coogee — Dine on Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in this open, breezy restaurant.

Open, breezy spaces, a bright and neutral palette, and seasonal, Mediterranean-inspired menus combine to make Shutters a chic coastal restaurant. Gaze out the shuttered windows onto sweeping ocean views as you sip on wine or carefully crafted cocktails. The dinner menu offers a great low-key option, though the breakfast buffet is really where this spot shines.

This restaurant, bar and function space is open from breakfast until late night, with 24-hour in-room dining for hotel guests.

Rick Stein at Coogee Beach

Rick Stein at Coogee Beach is the flagship Sydney restaurant, and conveniently located inside the InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach hotel. Famous around the world for its seafood prowess, the Coogee location is no different. The menu here is definitely about celebrating Australia’s finest coastal produce. Think freshly shucked oysters and grilled lobster for the seafood purists, and dishes with a twist for those seeking a more adventurous palate – like fish curries, Mediterranean-inspired classics, and signature creations that Rick Stein is known for.

The atmosphere is relaxed, yet refined. Natural light fills the interior, and a breezy terrace has the perfect view. Pops of blue stand out against the white decor.

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Pool Bar

I’ve already mentioned that the pool is a destination that begs you to stay all day, and part of that appeal is the Pool Bar and its selection of drinks and light refreshments. The menu is intended to reflect ‘the ease of beachside living’, with dishes like bowls of the Buddha, fruit and poke variety, Moreton Bay bug rolls, cheese plates and fries. The cocktail list keeps it light and breezy, with a range of beers, teas, coffees and other non-alcoholic choices as well.

Does InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach have access for guests with disabilities?

Very much so. Find dedicated accessible rooms with roll-in showers. Plus step-free access to public areas like the pool and restaurants.

Is InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach family-friendly?

Absolutely. The location alone makes it great for kids, with Coogee Beach mere steps away. But the hotel also has some handy family features, like offering paid babysitting and childcare services, and kid-friendly meals in the restaurant.

Details

InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach outdoor bath in the Signature Suite — Some suites also feature outdoor bathtubs.

Best for: Luxurious seaside getaways

Address: 242 Arden St, Coogee NSW

Phone: (02) 9315 7600

Cost: From $416 per night. Opt for The Experience Package (available until 31st December 2026), including an overnight stay, access to Èliva Spa’s thermal facilities, $100 dining credit, Club InterContinental access and more at $829 for two.

Website: coogeebeach.intercontinental.com

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe.

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca, which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie, the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach. Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen, which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse.

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach, where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne, Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s.

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

Sydney’s new luxury hotel on Coogee Beach is the epitome of coastal charm

InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach brings five-star luxury to the Eastern Suburbs beach.

Where is InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach?

What is the style and character of InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach?