Dorchester on the Beach

Dorchester on the Beach has some of the best ocean views I have seen. The apartments are in a relatively low rise building, with two apartments to a floor and they look straight out to the beautiful ocean. We were on Level 6 and the ocean felt so close, always ''inviting'' us back out to the sand for a swim or a walk. We also had a great view of some whales spouting water next to the whale watching boat that was anchored not far away. There is a sandy path from the Dorchester on the Beach, to the ocean front, then a five minute stroll to surf life saving patrolled areas. The coffee at the surf life club was excellent, but closes at 9am. Not a problem really as the Queensland light and nice temperatures, had us up early and ready for each day........ of relaxing. The apartment had a full kitchen, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, balcony and a well equipped laundry. We have stayed here before with our kids, who are now grown up, so it was just my husband and I as the kids were all busy with work and uni. We spent most of our time on the beach, tackling the strong ocean waves, between the surf flags, then going back to the apartment to relax, read, cook. We dipped our feet in the Dorchester pool a few times and it was a lovely temperature, but we preferred the action with the waves. The pool is very nice, but a little small and suited to young children. The walk to the shops was about 15 mins and we always went most of the way along the sandy beach. We pretty much shopped as we went, so just carried things back. The apartment was very clean and Karen the Manager in the front office was always really nice and helpful. I liked having a laundry as we didn't need to pack alot of clothes and also the full size kitchen meant we were able to cook or make up exactly the food we wanted, which was generally wraps, sweet potato with lentils, brown rice, muesli with berries., minestrone, toast. There was one negative however, the beds were not very comfortable, a bit hard and could do with a mattress topper. If we book for a long stay, I'd be tempted to BYO this if needed! It was a very easy going stay and so refreshing during a cold Melbourne snap. We've been home two days and I miss the ocean. Alas!! There are quite a few hotels and apartment complexes with similar ocean frontage, but many are high rise. We looked over the ''newish'' Langham Hotel and Residences one day as it was close by the Dorchester and we will be keen to check this out at some stage.

We have stayed twice at Dorchester on the Beach and we have had a great experience each time. The apartments are right on the beach with amazing ocean views. They are spacious, clean and well equipped. Waking distance to surf clubs, restaurants and the mall. If you want a true beach experience on the Gold Coast I highly recommend.

Location was AMAZING for a family. View was stunning. Karen was very helpful. Apartment had everything we needed. Plenty of extra things like serving platters, bowls etc. Near the pool area was a whole selection of games, beach toys, boggy boards etc nice homely feel. Thank you for having us at your apartments.

We arrived less than a week after the cyclone. The hotel was amazing - Karen the Manager had called me a couple of days earlier to let us know it was business as usual. Apart from some limited access to the beach everything was normal. The hotel had cleaned up perfectly. Our apartment was 3 bedrooms with the most amazing views and extended family from the UK could not believe how perfect the location was. Thanks Anne and Karen - you are fabulous hosts and without doubt we will be back soon.

Nicely renovated apartment in an older block, right on the beach. There is convenient access with a tram stop only a short walk away. Ample parking, great beach access, lovely pool and good access to local food and drink options. Our apartment was clean and comfortable. No complaints at all

Fantastic location on the beach with views to match. On-site manager Dene was so friendly and helpful, we all loved him! We had a fantastic stay and would love to go back. As mentioned in other reviews parking is very tight but great to have anyway, not only because it's free!