The hype
Travelers rave about the Tempur-Pedic beds and the convenience of the light rail at the doorstep.
The Star Grand Hotel And Residences Sydney
$180-350/ night
Book this if You want a high-energy Vegas-style resort experience with killer dining right in Sydney's harbour precinct.
Why People Love It
- Direct access to Sydney's best steak (BLACK) and sushi (Sokyo) without leaving the building
- The heated indoor-outdoor pool that's actually warm enough for year-round swimming
- Residences offer apartment-style living with balconies, perfect for groups or longer stays
Quick Take: It’s a shiny, busy casino hotel that delivers on comfort and glitz but lacks the soul of a boutique property.
Reviewed by @thebabybossgirl: Took the family for a staycation at The Star Grand and it was exactly what we needed. The girls were obsessed with the indoor pool lights, and I finally got to relax in a cabana. It felt like a proper holiday without leaving Sydney. Highly recommend for tired parents!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Long-time guests note that some 'refurbished' rooms still have tired bathrooms, and housekeeping occasionally misses the details like dusting vents.
- You love the convenience of having 10+ restaurants and a theatre in your elevator bank
- You need a solid pool for laps or lounging regardless of the weather
- You are attending an event at the ICC or Lyric Theatre
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable daily service, though some guests report missed details like dusting high vents.
- Bathroom hygiene: Bathrooms are usually sparkling, but watch for mold in the grout of older, unrenovated suites.
- Maintenance: Solid. The property is well-maintained, though some 'Residences' show minor wear and tear on furniture.
- Linens & towels: High quality. Crisp, white, and plentiful.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells expensive (signature scent), but hallways can occasionally trap food or smoke odors.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway chatter from late-night casino goers
- Construction noise from nearby developments (ongoing in Pyrmont)
Before you book
Good to know
- The Light Rail station 'The Star' is literally underneath the hotel—easiest way to get to the CBD.
- A security deposit of $100-$200 per night is required at check-in.
- The 'Turbines' gym is surprisingly well-equipped, not just a hotel afterthought.
What to pack
- Swimsuit for the heated indoor/outdoor pool
- Dressy casual outfits—the restaurants here have dress codes
- Earplugs if you're a light sleeper and end up on a lower floor
Room Genie
Best picks
- Harbour View Suites for the best vantage point of the bridge and water
- Residences (1 or 2 bedroom) if you want a balcony and fresh air
Rooms to avoid
- Lower floor rooms facing Pyrmont Street (street noise)
- Standard rooms near the elevator banks (high foot traffic)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on a high floor, away from the elevators. If available, a refurbished room with a harbour view would be ideal.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the indoor/outdoor pool is heated to a comfortable 26°C (79°F) year-round.
Can I open the windows?
Only in the 'Residences' which have balconies. Standard hotel room windows are sealed.
Is there free parking?
No. Self-parking is ~$40/night and Valet is ~$85-$95/night. Gold/Platinum casino members may get perks.
How far is the Opera House?
It's across the harbour. You can take the Light Rail to Circular Quay (20 mins) or a ferry from Pyrmont Bay.
Is breakfast included?
Usually not, unless booked in a package. The Harvest Buffet breakfast is massive but costs extra (~$40-$50).
Are the rooms quiet?
Mostly yes due to heavy glazing, but internal noise from the corridor is the main complaint.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Skip the hotel breakfast and walk 5 mins to 'Social Brew Cafe' for a better, cheaper local vibe.
- ✨
You can access the pool deck even if you aren't swimming—it has great views of the harbour.
- ✨
Join 'The Star Club' (free) before you arrive; it sometimes unlocks parking discounts or dining perks.
5 things to know before you go
💡The walk from the self-park garage to the hotel lobby is a bit of a hike through the complex.
💡The 'Residences' have a separate, more discreet entrance than the main hotel lobby.
💡You might smell faint cigarette smoke near the casino entrances, even though the hotel is non-smoking.
💡The minibar is automated—move an item and you might get charged instantly.
💡Housekeeping can be hit-or-miss with restocking coffee pods; just call down if they forget.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Star Grand Hotel And Residences Sydney is located and what's nearby.