The hype
Guests love the massive rooms and convenience of the shops downstairs, but often complain about the rock-hard beds.
Meriton Suites Southport
$150-280/ night
Book this if You want a high-rise apartment with a full kitchen and laundry, away from the chaotic noise of Surfers Paradise but still connected by tram.
Why People Love It
- Incredible floor-to-ceiling views (rooms start on level 25)
- Woolworths supermarket and tram stop directly downstairs
- Resort-style indoor and outdoor pools that are actually heated
Quick Take: It’s a polished, reliable skyscraper that feels more like a high-end residence than a hotel—perfect for families, but lacks the 'holiday vibe' of a beachfront resort.
Reviewed by @Wandering_Ren: I honestly didn't expect the view to be this massive. Opening that door and seeing the whole Gold Coast stretch out in front of me was the highlight of my trip. It felt like I was floating over the marina. Definitely ask for a high floor—it changes everything.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'Ocean View' is spectacular, but if you book a 'Mini Suite,' you won't get a balcony.
- You need a full kitchen and laundry for a longer stay
- You are traveling with a family and need separate bedrooms
- You prefer the quieter, local feel of Southport over the tourist trap of Surfers
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.2
- Housekeeping: Weekly service for long stays. Daily 'refresh' is not standard unless paid for.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally spotless, modern grout, and good water pressure.
- Maintenance: Excellent condition, building is relatively new (opened ~2016).
- Linens & towels: Crisp white commercial linens, though some guests find the towels a bit thin.
- Odors & scents: Neutral scent. No heavy perfumes, but watch for lingering smoke on balconies.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway doors slamming
- Wind whistling on higher floors during storms
Before you book
Good to know
- Reception is 24 hours, but the building is secure—you need a key card for everything.
- There is a strict 'No Party' policy, especially during Schoolies (mid-Nov to mid-Dec).
- Credit card surcharge is 1.66% on all transactions.
What to pack
- Laundry detergent pods (starter pack provided, but you'll need more)
- Pool slides for the elevator ride to the pool deck
- Groceries—buy them at the Woolworths downstairs immediately
Room Genie
Best picks
- Ocean Suite (High Floor): For the iconic coastline views.
- Hinterland Suite: Often cheaper and offers spectacular sunset views over the mountains.
Rooms to avoid
- Mini Suites: No balcony and feel significantly smaller.
- Low-floor rooms (Level 25-30): Views are partially obstructed by neighboring buildings.
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on the highest possible floor (50+) facing the Ocean. Please ensure the balcony has been deep-cleaned, as I have a sensitivity to dust/ash.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there free parking?
No. Parking is $20 AUD per night and must be reserved. There are height restrictions (2.1m).
Can I walk to the beach?
You can walk to the Broadwater (calm bay beach) in 5 minutes, but the surf beach (Main Beach/Surfers) is a tram ride or drive away.
Is there a bond/deposit?
Yes, a credit card pre-authorization of $100-$400 AUD is required upon check-in depending on room size.
Are the pools heated?
Yes, both the indoor and outdoor pools are heated, making them usable year-round.
Does the room have a coffee machine?
Yes, suites come with a capsule coffee machine (usually Nespresso compatible) and a starter pack of pods.
Is it pet friendly?
No, pets are not allowed, with the exception of registered service animals.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Hinterland' view rooms get amazing sunset colors and are often quieter than the ocean-facing side.
- ✨
There is a secret pedestrian entrance from the Woolworths plaza directly into the hotel lift lobby—save time walking around the block.
- ✨
Ask for a 'high floor' specifically—rooms go up to level 55, and the view difference between 25 and 55 is massive.
5 things to know before you go
💡The elevators can be slow during morning rush hour (10am checkout) because of the 55 floors.
💡The outdoor pool can get extremely windy because it's on a podium level between high-rises.
💡You have to take your own rubbish out to the chute in the hallway; housekeeping is weekly for long stays.
💡The 'Mini Suites' are basically just a hotel room—don't book them if you want the full apartment experience.
💡The tram stop 'Broadwater Parklands' is literally across the road, making a car optional.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Meriton Suites Southport is located and what's nearby.