Hotel St Clair

The hotel's direct beachfront location with stunning ocean views and the soothing sound of crashing waves is its undeniable signature feature, making it a memorable retreat. This prime position is ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway and sightseers eager to explore the coastal area. Business travelers also find it a refreshing alternative to city-center accommodations. Guests consistently praise the comfortable beds, spacious rooms, and the convenience of having numerous cafes and restaurants within easy walking distance. To maximize the experience, guests are advised to request a sea-facing room to fully immerse themselves in the captivating vistas and to take advantage of the vibrant local dining scene.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the practical kitchenette facilities available in many rooms, which typically include a refrigerator, microwave, toaster, kettle, and basic cutlery, though a hot plate for cooking is not provided. Some rooms are equipped with a washer/dryer, offering added convenience for longer stays, although a few guests noted that these units could leave clothes creased. While there is no on-site gym, guests receive complimentary access to a nearby saltwater pool, which is a popular amenity. The hotel offers underground parking, which is a significant advantage, though it can sometimes be tight or reach capacity, requiring guests to use public street parking. Free Wi-Fi is available, but some guests experienced temperamental connectivity.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests frequently commend the overall cleanliness and spaciousness of the rooms, often highlighting the exceptionally comfortable beds as a standout feature ensuring a restful night's sleep. Many rooms boast impressive ocean views, enhancing the stay. The shower pressure is consistently praised, and some bathrooms feature luxurious additions like heated tile floors and soaking tubs. While most guests find the rooms quiet, some have noted occasional street noise. A few reviews mentioned minor issues such as dated decor in certain areas, or isolated incidents of specific maintenance needs like a broken hairdryer or inconsistent room servicing.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel does not offer its own dining services, but its proximity to a wide array of cafes and restaurants is a major highlight for guests. Many reviewers emphasize the convenience of having excellent breakfast options and diverse dining choices just a short walk away. Specific establishments like the Esplanade Restaurant and Fugue Cafe are frequently recommended for their quality and convenience, with some cafes offering discounts for hotel residents. Guests appreciate the ease of finding good coffee and meals without needing to travel far, making dining a seamless part of their stay.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's beachfront location directly opposite St. Clair beach is overwhelmingly cited as its most appealing attribute, offering stunning views and immediate access to the esplanade. This prime spot places guests within easy walking distance of numerous cafes and restaurants, creating a vibrant local atmosphere. While not in the immediate city center, Dunedin city center is easily accessible, typically a 10-minute drive or via convenient public transport options. Underground parking is available and highly valued by guests, though it can occasionally be full, requiring reliance on nearby public parking.

Staff & Service
The staff helpfulness and friendly staff attitude are consistently praised by guests, contributing significantly to a positive experience. Many reviewers highlight the efficiency of the check-in process and the staff's willingness to accommodate requests. While most interactions are positive, a few guests reported instances of less attentive or impersonal service, and some noted occasional inconsistencies with housekeeping schedules. Overall, the majority of guests found the staff to be welcoming and responsive, enhancing their comfort and satisfaction throughout their stay.

Additional Information
A notable benefit for guests is the complimentary access provided to the nearby saltwater pool, offering a unique recreational opportunity. The hotel also provides free underground parking, which is a significant convenience, though guests should be aware that spaces can be limited during peak times. While rooms are generally well-equipped with kitchenette amenities like a microwave and refrigerator, it's important to note that they do not include a hot plate for cooking. Guests planning a longer stay will appreciate the availability of washer/dryer units in some rooms.