Top 13 Best Geelong Accommodation: A Local’s Guide (2023)

Travelling to Geelong? Lucky you! It’s a beautiful part of Australia. The next step after deciding to go is to find your top pick for the best Geelong accommodation so you can have a fantastic trip.

And that’s exactly what we’re going to help you with!

Geelong is a great place to visit thanks to its beautiful waterfront, fantastic cafes, interesting history, and dazzling festivals and sporting events.

In addition to its attractions, Geelong Victoria is an ideal base for exploring The Bellarine and Great Ocean Road.

Geelong waterfront apartment balcony with views.

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There is a wide variety of accommodation in Geelong to suit all tastes and budgets.

From Geelong accommodation apartments to Geelong hotel accommodation and top Geelong motels, it’s easy to find the best places to stay in Geelong that are perfect for you.

In this article, I will help you find the top hotel in Geelong for your needs no matter what you are looking for.

So whether you need a holiday house Geelong, Geelong waterfront accommodation, or B&B Geelong, we have you covered with the best accommodation Geelong has for you.

If you don’t want to waste any time and simply want the best place to stay in Geelong click here to book the Novotel Waterfront Hotel Geelong now!

Otherwise, let’s start!

Here is our list of the top Geelong accommodation as well as some information about where to stay in Geelong.

Geelong Accommodation Comparison Chart

In this table, you will find a comparison of all the top choices for accommodation in Geelong Vic.

Where To Stay For The Best Accommodations In Geelong

When it comes to choosing the best accommodation in Geelong we recommend you stay as central as you can to the waterfront. This way you can enjoy many Geelong attractions, nightlife and foodie haunts without the hassle of driving.

12 Best Accommodation In Geelong Reviews

Below you’ll find the best Geelong places to stay, from Geelong beach accommodation, hotels in Geelong waterfront, to Geelong accommodation family friendly options, we list and review them all.

1) Novotel Geelong Hotel Review

Guest room at Novotel Geelong Waterfront accommodation.

Address: 10/14 Eastern Beach Road, Geelong 3220

Close To: Steps from the waterfront, shops, restaurants, bars, cafes

Room Types: King and standard rooms with balconies, deluxe king rooms with bay views

Key Features:

  • Waterfront location
  • Breakfast option
  • Indoor heated pool
  • Sauna
  • Gym
  • Restaurant and bar
  • 24 hour front desk
  • Balconies
  • Bay views

The Novotel has one of the best locations in Geelong, right on the waterfront and close to all the popular attractions.

From this modern hotel in Geelong beach, you’re just a short walk to Westfield shopping centre, Eastern Beach, restaurants and fabulous nightlife.

The Novotel Geelong has numerous on-site facilities to keep you entertained.

Here you will find a heated indoor pool (perfect in winter!), fitness centre, and relaxing steam room, all conveniently open 24 hours a day.

Click here for more information.

This Novotel Australia hotel has 109 newly refurbished guest rooms with comfortable beds and pillows.

Designed to be the perfect retreat, each room comes with a balcony, complimentary WiFi, and iPod docking stations.

The best rooms at this Geelong beachfront accommodation have stunning water views.

The Waterfront Restaurant and Bar has a great spot overlooking the bay and Steampacket Gardens. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you can enjoy a meal or unwind with a drink out in the sunny alfresco area.

Alfresco dining at Novotel Hotel accommodation at Geelong Waterfront.

Best Things?

The stunning views of Corio Bay from the hotel, make it one of the best hotels Geelong waterfront has to offer.

Worst Things?

Having to pay for car parking.

Summary

The Novotel Geelong waterfront hotel is the perfect hotel for travellers who want a full-service hotel with great facilities and a top location.

Simply cross the road to enjoy all that the Waterfront precinct has to offer.

Click here for the latest prices.

2) R Hotel Geelong

Image of the R Hotel accommodation in Geelong.

 

Address: 10 Bellarine Street, Geelong 3220

Close To: 5 minute walk to Eastern Beach, shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes

Room Types: King room with balcony, 1 & 2 bedroom apartments with and without bay views

Key Features:

  • Overlooks Austin Park, Corio Bay, and Geelong CBD
  • Balconies
  • Onsite cafe
  • Keyless access technology
  • Heat and sound proofing
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Coffee machine

Situated just 300 metres from Eastern Beach, the R Hotel Geelong, is ideally located for any trip to Geelong.

Nearby you’ll find cafes, restaurants, bars, the Carousel and Skywheel, as well as shopping centres, and the Geelong Botanical Gardens.

Dating back to the 1850s this stunning building has been redeveloped into a 9 storey Geelong beach hotel offering apartment style accommodation.

There are 128 accommodation options to choose from, including hotel rooms and 1 and 2 bedroom apartments. Most have balconies with fabulous water views.

Click here for more information.

All room types are spacious and bright with modern decor, soundproof windows, keyless access technology, and daily housekeeping service.

The apartments feature an open plan living, dining, and kitchen area with a full size fridge, espresso coffee machine, reverse cycle air-conditioning and laundry facilities.

Car parking is available, the fast free Wifi will keep you online, while the onsite cafe “Le Cafe” is perfect for your morning cup of Joe.

Waitress at R Hotel cafe in Geelong

Best Things?

Everything at the R Hotel is brand new. The balconies and views. The location.

Worst Things?

Limited amenities.

Summary

Brand new Geelong foreshore accommodation in a top location with balconies and water views. A top-choice accommodation Geelong waterfront option.

Click here for the latest prices.

3) Geelong Waterfront Penthouse Apartment

Ocean views from Geelong Waterfront Penthouse accommodation balcony.

Address: 4 Yarra Street, Geelong 3220

Close To: Geelong waterfront and yacht club, shops, restaurants, bars, cafes

Room Types: 3 bedroom apartment

Key Features:

  • Ocean views
  • Pool and gym access
  • Communal courtyard
  • BBQ facilities
  • Balcony
  • Kitchen and laundry
  • Free secure parking for 2 vehicles

Looking for the best Geelong accommodation that’s both convenient and luxurious?

One of the top places to stay in Geelong is the Waterfront Penthouse Apartment.

This luxury three-bedroom apartment is located right on the foreshore and is within walking distance of everything you need for a fantastic holiday.

One of the best things about the apartment is the private balcony that overlooks lush parklands, Eastern Beach, and the glorious Corio Bay.

It’s the perfect spot to sit back, relax with a drink, and let your worries melt away.

The spacious apartment has sleeping for 6 people in 3-bedrooms with two ensuites and a powder room.

Offering a fully equipped kitchen with all the mod cons, the open plan kitchen/dining/lounge area makes the most of the views with double glass sliding doors that open onto the balcony.

Click here for more information.

There’s a handy laundry with a washing machine and dryer to keep your clothes lovely and fresh.

As an added bonus when you stay at the Geelong Waterfront Penthouse you have full use of the Novotel Hotel facilities.

So you can swim in the indoor heated pool, work out in the gym, or sweat it out in the steam room.

There’s also a big communal courtyard with barbecue facilities available for you to use.

This Geelong luxury accommodation also comes with 2 complimentary secure undercover car parks and fast free Wifi to keep you online.

Geelong waterfront penthouse apartment kitchen.

 

Best Things?

The balcony with unforgettable bay views.

Worst Things?

The road traffic can be a bit noisy at times.

Summary

This outstanding Eastern Beach Geelong accommodation has everything you want in a luxury apartment. It’s ideal if you’re looking for alternatives to waterfront hotels Geelong.

Click here for the latest prices.

You can read our full guide to the best luxury accommodation in Geelong by clicking here.

4) Quest Geelong

Quest Hotel Geelong guest room.

Address: 16 – 18 The Esplanade South, Geelong 3220

Close To: 2-minute walk to the waterfront and walking paths

Room Types: Studios, 1, 2, & 3 bedroom apartments, 1 bedroom accessible rooms

Key Features:

  • Cooking facilities
  • Laundry facilities
  • Fast free wifi
  • Housekeeping
  • Fitness centre
  • Free secure parking

If you’re looking for Geelong holiday apartments in a great location the Quest Apartments Geelong is ideal.

Situated in a quiet area, the Quest Geelong is just a 2-minute walk to the beautiful waterfront, and the CBD and Pakington Street are close by. As is the Geelong train station.

This excellent family accommodation Geelong option has 1, 2, and 3 bedroom fully self-contained apartments with both kitchen and laundry facilities.

If an apartment is too big for your needs the studios with kitchenettes are a terrific alternative to the Geelong hotels.

Click here for more information.

The newly refurbished rooms feature stylish furnishings, smart TVs, living areas, and fast free wifi, some rooms have balconies while others have courtyards.

Onsite amenities include housekeeping, complimentary secure car parking, and a fitness centre.

Living room at Quest Geelong waterfront apartments with outdoor courtyard with seating.

Best Things?

The great location, spotless rooms, handy cooking and laundry facilities, and helpful staff.

Worst things?

No housekeeping on Sundays or public holidays.

Summary:

Well located self-contained accommodation in Geelong Victoria suitable for solo travellers, large groups, and families. An excellent choice for your Geelong stay.

Click here for the latest prices.

5) Vue Apartments Review

Vue Apartments guest room with balcony.

Address: 6 Bellarine Street, Geelong 3220

Close To: Geelong waterfront, shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes

Room Types: Studios, 1 & 2 bedroom apartments with park, city, or bay views

Key Features:

  • Bay and park views
  • Balconies
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Kitchens or kitchenettes
  • Cable channels
  • Free wifi
  • Private parking

On the lookout for the best Geelong accommodation waterfront apartment? Then the Vue apartments may be just what you’ve been looking for.

Located conveniently in Bellerine Street, the Vue Apartments Geelong have balconies with superb views over Eastern Beach and Austin Park.

Comprising 60 modern and stylish apartments, guests can choose from studio and one and two-bedroom options.

Click here for more information.

The building’s contemporary design is reflected in the open plan living/dining/kitchen and quality fixtures and fittings.

All apartments come with award-winning King Koil beds, fully equipped European style kitchens and for coffee lovers Nespresso machines.

Onsite parking is available.

Dining and kitchen area at the Vue Apartments Geelong Waterfront.

 

Best Things?

The Vue Apartments Geelong Vic are in near new condition. The excellent housekeeping keeps things spic and span.

Worst Things?

There is a surcharge for car parking.

Summary

The Vue Apartments has some of the best self-contained accommodation Geelong has to offer. Great location. Great views. Comfy beds and stylish rooms.

What more could you ask for?

Click here for the latest prices.

6) Eden Oak Geelong Accommodation

Eden Oak cheap Geelong accommodation room with doors opening to the outside.

Address: 20 Adams Court, East Geelong 3219.

Close To: The botanical gardens and East Geelong Golf Course. Walk to Eastern Beach.

Room Types: Standard, king, accessible, 2 bedroom apartments, family suites

Key Features:

  • Includes continental breakfast
  • Swimming pool
  • Billiard room
  • Table tennis
  • North Of Eden bar
  • Manicured gardens
  • Private parking
  • Fast wifi

Nestled among the Eastern Park gardens, Eden Oak is a top option if you’re looking for Geelong resort accommodation.

It’s one of the best hotels in Geelong when it comes to affordability and value-for-money too.

Guests can enjoy the beautiful pool area, lush gardens, table tennis, the billiard room, and have a relaxing drink in the North Of Eden bar.

If you like a hit of golf East Geelong Golf Course is right next door, so be sure to bring your clubs.

A stay at Eden Oak also includes a delicious continental breakfast so this is a good option if you’re after a bed and breakfast in Geelong.

Click here for more information.

There are 42 hotel rooms and 4 self-contained apartments with kitchens at this Geelong Victoria accommodation.

Each option has lovely garden views, modern ensuite bathrooms, a seating area, a fridge, tea and coffee making facilities, and smart TVs.

Guests can also make use of the fast free wifi and complimentary private parking.

Relaxing pool area with sun lounges and umbrellas at Eden Oak Geelong accomodation.

Best Things?

The peaceful yet convenient location. The lush garden setting and relaxing pool area.

Worst Things?

Poor signage means it can be tricky to find your room on arrival.

Summary:

If you’re looking for value-for-money accommodation in Geelong area, this is a perfect choice with modern and comfortable rooms, a range of facilities, and a central location without the hustle and bustle.

Click here for the latest prices.

7) Barwon Valley Lodge

Barwon Valley Lodge sign and building

Address: 99 Barrabool Road, Belmont 3216

Close To: Barwon River and walking tracks, Belmont Shopping Centre, GMHBA Stadium at Kardinia Park

Room Types: 2 bedroom self-contained apartments

Key Features:

  • Heated pool and spa
  • Undercover BBQ area
  • Parking for boats and trailers
  • Fully serviced
  • Foxtel
  • Island adventure playground
  • Tennis court
  • Fast free wifi
  • Tesla charging

Tired of the usual “block” style apartment complexes?

Looking for a quiet place to stay that’s away from the busy tourist area?

Then take a look at Barwon Valley Lodge.

The resort-style complex is situated across from the beautiful Barwon River and has a relaxing parkland setting.

Set on 8 acres the tastefully landscaped grounds blends in with the natural surrounds providing a feeling of space and tranquillity.

The ground floor apartments are fully serviced and have 2 bedrooms and a bathroom with a full-size bathtub and separate shower.

Other features include a contemporary kitchen with all amenities, a private patio, a flat-screen TV with Foxtel, and a laundry with a washer and dryer.

Each apartment has a handy car space out the front.

Click here for more information.

Barwon Valley Lodge is one of the ideal places to stay Geelong has for families.

Kids love the swimming pool and spa as well as the Island Adventure Playground, cubby house, and swing set.

There are kayaks for paddling the lake and bikes suitable for the whole family available free of charge.

Other amenities at this Geelong accommodation with pool, include an impressive full-size synthetic grass tennis court and an undercover barbecue area.

The Lodge is a 5-minute drive from Geelong city centre and 20-minutes from Torquay and the Great Ocean Road.

Belmont Shopping Centre is within walking distance.

Pool at Barwon Valley Lodge Geelong family accommodation.

Best Things?

The beautiful relaxed natural setting, swimming pool, and amenities.

Worst Things?

If you want to be in the middle of all the action then this is not for you.

Summary

Fully self-contained apartments in a natural resort-style setting with a pool, playground, and barbecue area. A great Geelong accommodation family option.

Click here for the latest prices.

8) Rydges Geelong Review

Guest room at Rydges a cheap hotel in Geelong.

Address: Corner Myers and Gheringhap Streets, Geelong 3220

Close To: Walk to Little Malop Street restaurants, Gull Airport Service, GMHBA Stadium at Kardinia Park

Room Types: Superior double and queen rooms, family rooms, bayview king rooms.

Key Features:

  • Bay or city views
  • Swimming pool and spa
  • Fitness centre
  • Restaurant and bar
  • Room service
  • Off street parking
  • Free wifi

Looking for the best affordable hotel accommodation Geelong has? Then take a look at Rydges Geelong Vic accommodation.

Situated just a few blocks back from the waterfront, this Rydges Hotel is only minutes from Kardinia Park, and within walking distance of the city’s vibrant restaurant and bar scene, museums, and galleries.

Click here for more information.

This Geelong city accommodation offers 138 guest rooms, a pool area and spa, and sweeping views of Corio Bay, the You Yangs and Kardinia Park.

There’s an onsite restaurant serving fresh modern Australian cuisine and a hearty buffet breakfast.

Pool area at Rydges Geelong Hotel accommodation.

Best Things?

Definitely the location. Rydges Geelong accom is within easy walking distance of Little Malop Street, Geelong train station and it’s just two minutes from the Gull Bus.

Worst Things?

The hotel doesn’t have any balconies to enjoy the fabulous views from.

Summary

The Rydges Hotel has all the essential amenities needed to be comfortable and connected. It’s the perfect place to take in all the city of Geelong has to offer.

Click here for the latest prices.

9) The Admiralty Motor Inn Review

Pool area at Admiralty Motor Inn cheap Geelong accommodation.

Address: 66 McKillop Street, Geelong 3220

Close To: Walk to the Gull Airport Service, GMHBA Stadium, and waterfront. Next door to the Empire Grill restaurant.

Room Types: Superior and standard queen and twin rooms

Key Features:

  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Breakfast option
  • Cable channels
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Laundry facilities
  • Onsite parking
  • Free wifi
  • Fridges

For travellers looking for accommodation near Geelong Gull bus, the Best Western Admiralty Motor Inn is ideal.

Located in McKillop street it’s just a short walk from the Gull’s main drop-off point.

The Admiralty Motor Inn has 41 air-conditioned rooms with queen size beds, free Foxtel cable TV and wireless internet.

Some rooms are available with a spa.

Click here for more information.

Other facilities at the Admiralty Inn Geelong include an outdoor saltwater pool, free on-site parking, and a luggage storage area.

A delicious breakfast is available either in your room or in the poolside breakfast room.

A highlight of this good-value motel is the award-winning Empire Grill restaurant.

Located on-site the restaurant has been serving delicious food to Geelong residents for over 30 years.

Guest room with bed, couch, and table with a wine bottle at Admiralty Motel in Geelong.

Best Things?

The pool and tasty breakfast and the welcoming staff who bend over backward to help you.

Worst Things?

No views or bells and whistles.

Summary

This is great motel style accommodation Geelong Vic with comfortable clean rooms on the city’s edge.

Click here for the latest prices.

10) Geelong CBD Accommodation

Bedroom at Geelong CBD Accommodation

Address: 4 Admiral Place, Geelong 3220

Close To: The waterfront, botanical gardens, eateries, shops, Geelong Hospital

Room Types: Studio apartments, accessible apartment

Key Features:

  • Central location
  • Kitchenette
  • Free off street parking
  • Tea and coffee making facilities
  • Free wifi
  • Electronic keypad entry
  • Wheelchair friendly

Looking for cheap Geelong accommodation that’s neat, clean, and central to everything? Then Geelong CBD Accommodation is ideal.

Tucked in across the road from the hospital, this value-for-money accommodation in Geelong CBD is just a short walk from the waterfront, shopping centres, and Geelong’s top eateries.

A 7-Eleven store is just a 1-minute walk away for your morning paper or midnight munchies!

Click here for more information.

 There are 5 studio-style units including a fully accessible apartment with everything you need for a stress-free holiday.

Each unit is equipped with a kitchenette with tea and coffee making facilities, a cooktop, fridge, and microwave oven, a flat-screen TV and DVD player, a seating area, and comfy king size beds.

All rooms have private ensuite bathrooms and the accessible room has a walk-in shower.

There’s safe electronic keypad entry, complimentary Wifi, and designated free off-street parking for your car.

Guest room with a bed and rug at Geelong CBD Accommodation.

Best Things?

The great location. Neat and clean. Value for money.

Worst Things?

Some people may be disturbed by the noise of the helicopter landing at the hospital at night.

Summary

For travellers on a budget who are looking for cheap accommodation Geelong CBD options, this is a terrific option.

Click here for the latest prices.

11) Discovery Parks Geelong

Discovery Parks Geelong cabin at sunset.

Address: 59 Barrabool Road, Belmont 3216

Close To: The Barwon River and walking tracks, GMHBA Stadium at Kardinia Park, Belmont Shopping Centre

Room Types: Standard 3 bedroom cabins, deluxe cabins, family cabins, accessible studio cabin, deluxe spa cabin

Key Features:

  • Indoor heated pool
  • Onsite cafe
  • Playground
  • Activity room
  • BBQ area
  • Free wifi
  • Onsite parking

Formerly known as Riverview Tourist Park, Discovery Parks Geelong caravan park is ideal for families who want a fun and relaxing trip away.

Boasting a great atmosphere the park has lots of activities to keep the kids busy for hours.

The heated indoor pool will keep them entertained no matter the time of year, as will the activity room, and the playground is perfect for some outdoor fun.

Both adults and kids alike appreciate the onsite cafe that serves up piping hot coffee and delicious treats.

Click here for more information.

Nestled beside the natural beauty of the Barwon River, this top-rated Geelong holiday park, is close to walking tracks, shops and eateries, and an adventure playground.

It’s just a short drive to the city centre and waterfront attractions, and GMHBA Stadium is within walking distance.

Guests can choose from a variety of self-contained cabins, including 1, 2, and 3 bedroom cabins, family cabins, and accessible studios.

All accommodation options feature full kitchens, air-conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, and fabulous decks with outdoor furniture. Some cabins also have spa baths.

Click here for the latest prices.

12) Anchor Geelong Accommodation

Guest room at Anchor Geelong.

 

Address: 39 Swanston Street, Geelong 3220

Close To: 5 minute walk to the waterfront, the city centre, and eateries

Room Types: King, queen, double studios, 2 bedroom 2 bathroom suite, accessible studio

Key Features:

  • Stylish decor
  • Kitchenette
  • Courtyard with seating
  • Smart TVs with Netflix
  • Big bathrooms
  • Complimentary parking
  • Free wifi

Anchor Geelong has eight bright and airy studio-style rooms for you to choose from.

The individually designed rooms are fitted out in a nautical theme with beautifully appointed furnishings.

Each unit features a kitchenette equipped with a microwave, electric jug, toaster, and, a bar fridge.

Click here for more information.

Guests at Anchor are treated to comfy beds with quality linens and luxurious rainforest showerheads.

Extra features include off-street parking, wireless internet, smart TVs and outdoor courtyard areas.

The superb Geelong Botanical Gardens is less than a kilometre away, and the Son Of An Elk cafe is handy for a coffee or a quick bite to eat.

Kitchen area at Anchor Geelong accommodation with desk and chair.

Best Things?

The Anchor accommodation at Geelong has an easy check-in system and keypad door locking.

Worst Things?

It’s located on a busy road opposite Geelong University Hospital.

Summary

Anchor is an excellent place to base yourself while you explore all the attractions this fab city has to offer. All for a great price!

Click here for the latest prices.

13) Quartz Cottage Review

Guest room at Quartz Cottage Geelong accommodation.

Address: 1 Sturns Lane, South Geelong 3220

Close To: Little Creatures Brewery, South Geelong Station, Kardinia Park Stadium, Cafe around the corner

Room Type: 3 bedroom house

Key Features:

  • Character features
  • Courtyard with outdoor furniture
  • Verandah with chairs
  • Bathtub
  • Lock up garage
  • Free wifi

If you are looking for a holiday house in Geelong, then you should take a look at Quartz Cottage.

This delightful three bedroom heritage cottage has a homey feel and provides sleeping for up to five people.

The clean and practical space has lots of little touches to make your stay really special, including extra blankets and heating on those cold winter nights.

Click here for more information.

A highlight of this property is the lovely garden and courtyard that’s perfect for relaxing on a sunny day.

Hidden away in a side lane, the cottage is well situated on the edge of the city close to everything you need.

Including local pubs and cafes, popular tourist attractions, and South Geelong train station.

Quartz cottage has fast free wifi and complimentary undercover parking on the premises.

Courtyard with outdoor furniture and umbrella at Quartz Cottage a popular place to stay in Geelong.

Best Things?

Only a ten-minute walk to Little Creatures Brewery, you’ll have this fabulous property all to yourself.

Worst Things?

The carport can be a bit tricky for large vehicles.

Summary

Quartz Cottage is perfect for anyone looking for unique places to stay near Geelong CBD. It’s a more homely alternative to standard apartment-style accommodation Geelong Victoria Australia.

Click here for the latest prices.

Best Accommodation Geelong Map

Looking for a more relaxed style of accommodation?

Then read our article about the top caravan parks in Geelong or our guide to the best Geelong motels here.

You can find more information about Geelong activities here.

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By Audrey Chalmers

Audrey is the principal blogger behind See Geelong. Book Lover | Breakfast Nut | Geelong Gal | She’s Usually Craving Coffee.