What it's like to stay at Pier One Sydney Harbour

Sitting pretty next to the Sydney Harbour Bridge, this iconic accommodation celebrates its maritime heritage and contemporary refinement.

Nestled right by the water and offering stylish rooms adorned in maritime motifs, staying at Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection is akin to being aboard an ultra-luxe boat – without the motion sickness. From your room or suite, you can admire sailboats drifting by and fall asleep to the calming sound of water lapping against the wharf. In short, you couldn’t be more immersed in Sydney Harbour if you tried.

Here’s everything you need to know about this iconic Sydney hotel that offers quintessential Sydney luxury.

Location

the Sydney Harbour exterior — The iconic hotel sits next to the Sydney Harbour Bridge. (Image: Angie Silvy)

Pier One Sydney Harbour takes up some of the most enviable pieces of real estate in Sydney, right next to the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Located waterfront, on a heritage-listed wharf in Walsh Bay, it drinks up sparkling Sydney Harbour views.

Walsh Bay is Sydney’s Arts & Theatre district, renowned for its world-class theatres, restaurants, and bars – though you may find it hard to tear yourself away from the luxurious accommodation. Basing yourself here puts you within walking distance of many of Sydney’s most well-known spots such as The Rocks, Circular Quay, and Barangaroo.

Sydney Airport is a 20-minute drive away.

Style and character

the balcony suite with Harbour views at Pier One — Stay in the heart of Sydney at Pier One Sydney Harbour.

The design choices for Pier One Sydney Harbour are an extension of the harbour surrounds and the building’s maritime history. Originally a cargo wharf and ferry terminal built in 1912, it was converted into a hotel in 1998. The hotel was managed by several different companies before it was acquired by Marriott International in 2014.

Architecture firm Tonkin Zulaikha Greer was called upon for the most recent transformation of the luxury hotel in 2019. They sensitively elevated the space, retaining many of the building’s heritage features, including timber ceiling beams, ironwork, and the original flooring.

The interior palette reflects the harbour with blues and browns, accented by aged brass detailing that evokes classic ship architecture. Modern Australian furnishings and custom-designed boat-shaped light fixtures thoughtfully complement the heritage features and bring it into the 21st century. Though a five-star hotel, the design exudes a sense of warmth and familiarity.

Facilities

PIER BAR at Pier One Sydney Harbour — There are two dining facilities at Pier One Sydney Harbour: PIER BAR and PIER DINING.

There is a gym onsite on the ground floor that comes with a range of Technogym exercise equipment. Running enthusiasts should also take advantage of the location, which is arguably one of the most beautiful running spots in the urban world. During summer, the hotel opens a pop-up harbourside swimming pool where you can go for a refreshing dip and then order drinks and summer bites at the bar. There are two dining facilities to enjoy, but more on that later. Valet parking is provided by the hotel’s concierge team.

The hotel is a sponsor of the Bangarra Dance Theatre – a company of professional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander performers – who will be performing at the Sydney Opera House in June 2025 for their Illume show. If you’re looking for something incredible to do for a night out during your stay, this show will offer an unforgettable cultural experience that will immerse you in Australia’s rich Indigenous heritage.

Rooms

Pier One Hotel — Dog-friendly rooms are available so your pet pals can enjoy a comfortable stay alongside you.

Each of the 189 light-filled rooms and suites features unique characteristics, with many boasting spectacular waterfront views. Each room has black-out blinds, premium Who is Elijah amenities, Dyson hairdryers, robes and slippers, and exceedingly comfortable beds. Bathrooms in rooms (not suites) are on the smaller side. For special occasions, book into one of the suites that offer breathtaking Sydney Harbour Bridge views which can be admired from the large heritage-style balcony or freestanding tub – you’d be hard-pressed to find a more spectacular location for Vivid or New Year’s Eve.

In great news for pet owners, this is a dog-friendly hotel, with rooms available to accommodate your furry companion.

Food and drink

alfresco dining at Pier Bar — Enjoy casual bites at the alfresco bar.

Pier One Sydney Harbour has two dining facilities on the ground floor: PIER BAR AND PIER DINING.

For a more relaxed affair, PIER BAR is an idyllic spot for casual bites and inventive cocktails with an Australian twist – take, for example, the Piermite: a whiskey, myrtle vanilla, dark cacao, Archiemite, yellow Chartreuse, and orange bitters concoction with a hint of Vegemite. In summer, head down for Sunset Hour to enjoy $2 oysters and $12 classic cocktails while soaking up live DJ sessions.

food and drinks on the table at PIER DINING — Dine on the modern Australian, seafood-forward menu.

PIER DINING is the hotel’s modern Australian restaurant offering a more sophisticated dining experience. The seafood-forward menu features dishes such as whole Murray cod, baked eastern rock lobster, and David Blackmore Wagyu oyster blade. The freshly shucked Sydney Rock oysters (offered in multiple preparations) are not to be missed. This is to be paired with the 100 per cent Australian wine selection.

A buffet breakfast is also served at PIER DINING with made-to-order eggs, crispy bacon, sausages, roasted tomatoes, pancakes, and waffles, along with a selection of fresh pastries and fruit platters.

Does Pier One Sydney Harbour have access for guests with disabilities?

There are wheelchair-accessible guest rooms at Pier One Hotel and most common areas of the hotel are also accessible by wheelchair.

Is Pier One Sydney Harbour family-friendly?

the Hickinson Suite at Pier One Sydney — Check into the Hickinson Suite with Sydney waterfront views.

Pier One Sydney Harbour’s proximity to attractions like The Rocks, Circular Quay, and Sydney Opera House, make it a great base for families to explore. Family-friendly and interconnecting rooms are available, along with family packages that include a $100 food and drink voucher, breakfast, and accommodation for two adults and two children.

Details

Best for: Couples, first-timers to Sydney, business travellers

Address: 11 Hickson Rd, Dawes Point

Cost: From $309 per night.

Make this dazzling stretch of beaches and natural wonders your home base for a grand adventure

Whether you’re setting out solo, bringing a mate, or packing in the whole family, no road trip along Australia’s East Coast is complete without at least a few days spent exploring the Coffs Coast. A stunning stretch of NSW coastline nestled between ancient high-elevation rainforests and magnificent, undiscovered beaches, Coffs offers amazing biodiversity, stunning natural beauty, and heaps of local charm, without the crowds. Pull up in Coffs Harbour , your perfect home base for these unforgettable day-trips.

1. Southern Beaches

The Coffs region boasts 30 of Australia’s most beautiful, unspoiled beaches, directly abutting a dramatic tableau of mountains and rainforests. Drive South of Coffs Harbour to find up-and-coming surf destinations where it’s still possible to catch an empty wave. First up is the picturesque Sawtell village . Wander the famous fig-tree-lined main street packed with laid-back places to eat and drink. Enjoy panoramic views and seasonal whale sightings at Bonville Headland on the Southern end of the beach.

Nearby Bongil Bongil National Park boasts seven kilometres of empty beach, along with hiking and cycling trails through beachfront rainforests – keep an eye out for koalas living in the trees. Boambee Beach and Boambee Creek Reserve are great for families, with shallow waters perfect for kayaking and SUPing, plus an off-leash dog beach.

family eating lunch in sawtell — Experience small-town charm in Sawtell.

2. Orara Valley Tourist Trail

The Orara Valley Tourist Trail has it all: hinterland bushwalks, birdwatching, horse riding, pristine swimming holes and rolling green pastures dotted with dairy farms and historic villages. And it’s only 15 minutes west of Coffs Harbour.

Sample produce at a roadside stall, stop into Coramba Hotel for a quintessential country pub lunch, or try the Idle in Cafe in Nana Glen for coffee and scones. Then spend the afternoon kayaking the Orara River or mountain biking on Mt Coramba. If you’re feeling adventurous, follow the 4WD touring route along the Orara Escarpment in Bindarri National Park , a rugged landscape with dazzling views that winds through untouched eucalypt rainforests and waterfalls.

A family sitting by the Orara Valley Tourist Trail. — Explore the green heart of Coffs.

3. Dorrigo National Park

Enjoy a classic day trip from Coffs to forest bathe in some of the oldest subtropical rainforests in the world at Dorrigo National Park, part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests. These million-year-old ecosystems promise rare bird sightings, towering strangler figs, and epic walking tracks and picnic spots. Try the 6.6 km Wonga Walk to experience dreamy Crystal Shower Falls (where you can walk behind the falls) and the Skywalk Lookout, which offers spectacular views of the valley and coast. Then stop in Dorrigo town for a homey lunch. It’s worth noting that a section of the road between Ulong and Dorrigo – which dates to the 1880s – is unsealed, adding to the area’s end-of-the-earth allure but making travel difficult in adverse weather conditions. Alternatively, head to Dorrigo via the delightful township of Bellingen .

Three people standing at the SkyWalk lookout. — Wander the Skywalk.

4. Northern Beaches

For another tranquil expanse of sun, sand and surf breaks, head north to Woolgoolga (Tourism Australia’s Best Mainland Beach for 2025. Taste the coffee and local-produce breakfast at one of several cafes, then spot whales during their migration season along the Woolgoolga Whale Trail to the headland. Emerald Beach offers clear blue waters and another headland walk, perfect for taking in views of South Solitary Island, a dramatically rocky-cliffed island with a historic lighthouse. Red Rock, some 40km north of Coffs and named for its striking coastal rock formations, boasts a gorgeous estuary reserve that’s perfect for languorous days spent picnicking, swimming, fishing, and connecting with the relaxed local pace.

Freshly caught seafood by the beach, with sparkling ocean views. — Enjoy fresh seafood overlooking Woolgoolga Beach.

5. Jetty precinct

You could easily spend a whole day exploring the Jetty precinct – from its foreshores to the marina to Muttonbird Island. Start with fresh fish and chips from local institution Coffs Harbour Fisherman’s Co-op , before browsing the popular Harbourside Markets held every Sunday on the foreshores.

Take a scenic walk along the breakwall to Muttonbird Island , a cultural and ecological treasure with panoramic views and rich Gumbaynggirr heritage. The Giidany Miirlarl Education Space shares the island’s ancient stories, or join a guided moonlight tour to see the seasonal return of the muttonbirds.

Back at the Jetty Strip, find a buzzing mix of cafes, bars and restaurants with cuisines from around the world, open from morning until late. Don’t miss The Jetty Pavilion , a favourite for its unique menu blending modern Australian cuisine with vibrant world flavours.

walk to muttonbird island from coffs harbour — Walk the path where land meets sea and sky.

6. Grafton

Head inland from mid-October to early November to catch Grafton’s jacaranda season, when the town’s streets and parks are covered in purple. Even better, time your trip between 24 October and 2 November to attend the famous Jacaranda Festival, with special food items, performances and more. At any time of year, follow the self-guided Grafton Heritage Trail to discover the town’s historic buildings, landmarks and stories. Or get the blood pumping with a trip along the longest mapped white-water trail in Australia – the Clarence Canoe and Kayak Trail. Book a tour with Exodus Adventures .

woman walking through jacaranda trees in grafton — Time your Grafton trip to see the jacarandas in full bloom. (Image: @myclarencevalley)

7. Nambucca

Just south of Coffs Harbour sits Nambucca, the ideal town for a relaxed, coastal day trip. Hire a canoe, kayak or boat to explore over 80 kilometres of waterways stretching from the hinterland to the ocean. For those who prefer to stay on dry land (or double up their adventure for the day), stretch your legs along the V-Wall – a scenic coastal walk along the Nambucca River – dotted with boulders painted by the community, sharing messages, art and local stories. Stop along the way to buy Sydney rock oysters direct from local farmers, or try your own hand at fishing. Before heading back to Coffs, refuel on fresh seafood and wood-fired pizzas at Matilda’s in Nambucca .

a boat zooming through Nambucca Heads — Explore Nambucca’s waterways. (Image: Seen Australia)

Visit coffscoast.com and download the Coffs Coast Explorer App for more daytrips and trails.

Experience quintessential Sydney luxury at Pier One Sydney Harbour