The hype
Travelers are blown away by the 'immaculate' new rooms and the pool deck, but many are frustrated by the lack of a buffet breakfast and the confusing lift system.
The Star Grand Brisbane
$150-220/ night
Book this if You want to be the first to stay in Brisbane's flashiest new precinct with a pool scene that rivals the Gold Coast.
Why People Love It
- The Isoletto Pool Club on the Leisure Deck offers three infinity pools with river views
- Brand new, high-tech rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and blackout curtains
- Direct access to 50+ new restaurants and bars in the Queen's Wharf precinct
Quick Take: It's a glossy, casino-anchored mega-hotel where the hardware is five-star but the service is still finding its feet.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'River View' is stunning from high floors, but on lower levels, you're basically paying to watch traffic on the expressway.
- You love a 'Vegas' vibe with high-end dining and gaming just an elevator ride away
- You prioritize a brand-new, spotless bathroom over historic charm
- You want a pool scene that feels like a day club
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.8
- Housekeeping: Impeccable. Daily service is thorough, and guests consistently report 'spotless' rooms.
- Bathroom hygiene: Pristine. Grout is new, glass is streak-free, and no signs of mold or wear yet.
- Maintenance: Flawless condition (as expected for a hotel opened late 2024).
- Linens & towels: High thread count, crisp, and new. Robes are plush.
- Odors & scents: Fresh, signature hotel scent in lobby; rooms are neutral and clean.
Sleepability™
8.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Riverside Expressway traffic (only audible on very low floors)
- Hallway noise from late-night casino returnees
Before you book
Good to know
- Valet parking is ~$65 AUD/night; self-parking is ~$45 AUD
- A credit card surcharge of ~1.5% applies to all transactions
- The 'Leisure Deck' can get very windy, so bring a cover-up
What to pack
- Dressy casual outfits — the precinct has a strict dress code in evenings
- A windbreaker or wrap for the pool deck
Room Genie
Best picks
- River King (High Floor) — Request Level 15+ to clear the expressway and actually see the water
- City Suite — Often quieter and offers cool urban views if you don't care about the river
Rooms to avoid
- Low-floor River Rooms (Levels 6-10) — Your view is dominated by the concrete expressway
- Rooms near the elevator banks — High foot traffic from guests heading to the casino
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on a high floor (Level 15 or above) to ensure a view of the river over the expressway. Please avoid rooms directly adjacent to the elevator lobby.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a buffet breakfast?
No. Breakfast is à la carte (cooked-to-order) only, which costs approximately $40 AUD per person.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the Isoletto Pool Club features heated infinity pools open year-round.
Can I walk to South Bank?
Yes, the Neville Bonner Bridge connects the precinct directly to South Bank; it's a 5-10 minute walk.
Is there construction noise?
The hotel is open, but the surrounding Queen's Wharf precinct is still finishing phases. You might hear distant works during the day, but rooms are well-soundproofed.
How much is the deposit?
Expect a credit card hold of $100-$200 AUD per night for incidentals.
Are the rooms smart?
Yes, rooms feature integrated control systems for lighting, drapery, and temperature.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Use the Neville Bonner Bridge on Level 4 to walk straight across to South Bank for cheaper dining options.
- ✨
The 'City View' rooms actually offer a sparkling night skyline that some guests prefer over the dark river view.
- ✨
Don't rely on the in-room tablet for room service; calling is faster as the digital system can be buggy.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'River View' on lower floors is actually a 'Highway View'.
💡You have to take two different elevators to get from your room to the casino floor.
💡There is no pool service before 12:00 PM, so bring your own water bottle in the morning.
💡The lobby scent is intense—a signature fragrance that you'll either love or get a headache from.
💡The 'Leisure Deck' is shared with residential towers, so it can get crowded on weekends.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Star Grand Brisbane is located and what's nearby.