Headlands Austinmer Beach

The hotel offers a memorable coastal experience, primarily defined by its stunning ocean views and direct beach access from its unique headland location. Guests frequently highlight the spacious rooms and apartments, which are generally well-maintained and comfortable, providing a fresh and modern feel. It caters well to a diverse range of visitors, including couples seeking a romantic escape, families looking for convenient beach access and ample space, and wedding parties who find the venue ideal for special events due to its picturesque backdrop. Many also find it suitable for sightseers exploring the south coast. To make the most of your stay, consider requesting a beach view room, ideally on a higher floor, to fully appreciate the breathtaking vistas, and be aware that dining wait times can be significant during peak periods, so planning meals accordingly is advisable.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of facilities designed for comfort and convenience. Guests frequently praise the spacious apartments, many of which feature well-equipped kitchens, though some note a lack of specific items like sharp knives, oven trays, or sufficient crockery and cutlery. The inclusion of washing machines and dryers in rooms is a significant and highly appreciated amenity, especially for longer stays. Most apartments also boast large balconies that offer excellent views and outdoor living space. A popular outdoor pool, described as lovely and saltwater, is available for relaxation, though a few guests found it small or noted issues with accessibility. Free Wi-Fi is provided, ensuring guests can stay connected. Additionally, convenient and plentiful underground parking is a notable benefit, making arrival and departure hassle-free.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean, modern, and spacious, often described as tastefully decorated and inviting. Feedback on beds is mixed; while many guests report them as comfortable and super comfy, ensuring a restful night's sleep, some found them too soft, leading to discomfort or back pain. Pillows are typically well-regarded, though a few guests preferred a firmer option. The bathrooms are often noted for their generous size, with some featuring rain showers or separate toilet areas. Minor issues occasionally mentioned include loud fridges, washer/dryer errors, or a lack of a bathroom fan or adequate lighting above the mirror. While some rooms are quiet, particularly those facing away from the main hotel area, others experience noise from the bistro, bar, or nearby train line.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's bistro and restaurant are central to the guest experience, often lauded for their stunning views and vibrant atmosphere. However, feedback on food quality is notably mixed. While some guests enjoy delicious meals and praise the generous portions, particularly for event catering like canapés and grazing stations, a significant number express disappointment. Common complaints include food being cold, overcooked, bland, or overpriced for its perceived quality, with specific dishes like soggy salads, dry meat, and burnt pizza receiving criticism. Wait times for food are a frequent concern, often extending beyond an hour during busy periods, which can detract from the dining experience. Bar service also varies, with some staff being friendly and efficient, while others are described as rude or overwhelmed, leading to long queues for drinks.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is consistently highlighted as a standout feature, described as exceptional, stunning, and a primary reason for choosing to stay. Perched advantageously on a headland, it offers spectacular ocean views and provides direct access to the beach, making it ideal for coastal activities and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Guests appreciate its proximity, noting it's a short walk to the beach and other local cafes and restaurants, enhancing convenience for dining and exploration. The setting is considered perfect for exploring the south coast and serves as an excellent escape from city life, offering a tranquil yet accessible base. Furthermore, the availability of underground parking is a significant advantage, offering ease of access and security for vehicles, which is highly valued by visitors.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel generally receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Reception staff are frequently commended for their welcoming demeanor and efficient check-in process, often going above and beyond to assist guests. Many reviews highlight the attentive service provided during events, such as weddings, where staff contribute significantly to a positive experience. However, feedback regarding bar staff is notably mixed; while some guests report positive interactions, others describe them as rude, dismissive, or overwhelmed during busy periods, leading to long wait times for drinks. Issues with housekeeping, such as delayed room cleaning or unreplenished amenities, are occasionally mentioned. Despite these inconsistencies, the availability of a courtesy bus service is a valued convenience for some guests.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that late checkout requests may incur additional fees, even for repeat visitors, which has caused some disappointment regarding loyalty recognition. The hotel is a highly popular wedding venue, with many reviews praising the beautiful setting and the dedicated event coordination team for creating memorable occasions. Some guests have noted that certain rooms, particularly adjoining rooms, may have poor sound insulation, allowing noise and even light from neighboring units to be noticeable. Additionally, while many rooms feature spacious balconies, some lack fly screens, which can be an inconvenience if guests wish to keep doors open without concerns about insects. The pool is a saltwater facility, which is appreciated by those who use it.