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.

Location

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.

Style and character

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.

Facilities

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.

Rooms

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.

Food and drink

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.

The 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

See the Murray region in an entirely different light by exploring its night-time experiences and attractions.

By day, the mighty Murray River is a majestic and ever-changing sight, with river red gums and wetlands stretching along 2500 kilometres. But by night, its cities, towns, villages and landscapes totally transform.

From Albury Wodonga to Mildura, and everywhere in between, you’ll be in for a multi-sensory and memorable treat encompassing mesmerising light shows, guided ghost tours and vibrant celebrations that capture the nocturnal magic of the river.

This is no ordinary nighttime adventure; the region becomes an entirely different world when the sun sets. Discover six must-do activities along the Murray that can only be enjoyed after dark.

Port After Dark tour Murray at night — Hold on to your nerve when learning local ghost stories. (Credit: Campaspe Shire Council)

If you’re up for something a little more spine-tingling, Port After Dark in Echuca is your best bet. Rumour has it that the Port of Echuca Wharf and the buildings around it have long been home to lingering ghosts and mysterious events – like the vengeful woman said to haunt an old tramway bridge and spirits searching for stolen money through the town centre.

You can hear all about them on this guided lantern tour, which takes place on Wednesday and Saturday nights after dark. The stories are atmospheric and intriguing – you may even spot a ghost or two yourself. If you’d like a more intimate experience, private tours are also available to groups of 15 or more.

2. Wander art installations

Bruce Munroe's Fibre Optic Symphoinic Orchestra Murray at night — See Bruce Munro’s immersive art installation. (Credit: Serena Munro)

Right near the Perry Sandhills, sits an experience that feels almost otherworldly. Artist Bruce Munro (of Uluru’s Field of Lights fame) has created a Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra, a network of 80 Hills Hoists illuminated with fibre optic light combined with the sounds of an orchestra. The clotheslines glow and pulse in time to the specially composed score, immersing you in a dreamscape of light and sound.

For a different light experience, you’ll find stillness at Trail of Lights, also curated by Munro. Located just 30 minutes away on Lock Island in Mildura, thousands of lights stretch over the landscape, spotlighting both the river and a series of Munro’s sculptures. The trail is intended to be a peaceful and meditative setting for wandering and reflecting.

3. Learn through lasers

Heartbeat of the Murray at night — Travel 30 million years into the Murray’s past at Heartbeat of the Murray. (Credit: Ewen Bell)

Discover a fascinating history in this dual act of lights and projections on the banks of the Little Murray River. Legends of the Mallee is a multimedia show in Swan Hill combining lasers and lights, which tells the story of the region’s rich past. Learn about the Wamba Wamba and Wadi Wadi Peoples who first inhabited the area, as well as the figures and events that shaped the Mallee of today.

The river steals the spotlight in the Heartbeat of the Murray, a multimedia spectacle inside the Pioneer Settlement encompassing lights, lasers, sound and special effects against the natural backdrop. Through a sequence of large-scale animated projections, you’ll go back 30 million years to explore the Murray River’s formation before travelling to the present to learn how it supports modern communities.

4. Light up the lake

Lake Mulwala Laser Light Show Murray at night — Watch the lights and lasers of Lake Mulwala. (Credit: Mulwala Water Ski Club)

Travelling with kids? Head to Yarrawonga Mulwala and nearby Lake Mulwala for the family-friendly Laser Light & Sound Show. Lights and lasers are projected over the lake and onto curtains of fog, creating a colourful and high-energy visual display. The show suits all ages and tastes, set to a mix of songs that everyone knows and loves.

You can take in the spectacle from either the grassy banks of the lake or book a table at the Mulwala Water Ski Club’s Malibu Deck Cafe, serving pub-style food and refreshing drinks, including excellent classic cocktails. If you’re watching from the foreshore, the show is entirely free, making it a great budget-friendly option.

5. Be captivated by local culture

Bullanginya Dreaming Murray at night — Soak in the culture of the Bangerang People. (Credit: Laser Vision)

Set aside an evening to explore Bullanginya Dreaming in Cobram Barooga – you’ll want ample time to take in the stories and symbolism of this immersive laser light and sound trail. The 1.8-kilometre trail explores the storytelling and culture of the Bangerang People, who have long cared for the lands around Bullanginya Lagoon in Barooga. The trail features 12 activations – each telling a different story – and combines dramatic lights and lasers with water and fire.

Intertwined with the visual displays are Bangerang narratives, giving you meaningful insight into the area’s Indigenous heritage. It’s designed to be explored over 90 or so minutes, encouraging you to move slowly and thoughtfully.

6. Discover a winter glow

winterglow festival — See the streets of Albury Wodonga come to life after dark. (Credit: Visit Albury Wodonga)

Albury Wodonga comes alive as the weather drops, with an annual celebration of the season on Saturday, 15 August. WinterGlow takes over the CBD and features a vibrant program of things to see, do, learn, eat and drink.

Take part in hands-on workshops that let you try different art forms and crafts. Feast on street food and winter warmers from local eateries. Browse for artisan wares at the night markets. Watch musical acts on the main stage. Or get involved in different activations, including a silent disco and giant maze. Artificial snow will be falling to add to the festive atmosphere.

Even wandering the streets and laneways and soaking up the late-night energy will leave you feeling enchanted.

Start planning a day-to-night adventure along the Murray at visitthemurray.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.

Location

Style and character