The Gerald Apartment Hotel

Two blocks from the Indian Ocean, where the footpaths of the Geraldton Foreshore brush along the sandy shores of Town Beach, The Gerald Apartment Hotel sits pretty.

It’s the premier accommodation in Geraldton, in the heart of its CBD and within walking distance of the town’s best dining, nightlife and splashy attractions. The central locale means you can rise early to join the runners beachside or take a quick dip in the sea before heading to one of the local cafés for breakfast. Then, see out the day over sunset drinks at Old Man & The Sea – Geraldton’s only rooftop bar – conveniently perched on The Gerald’s third floor.

The hotel was opened in 2018 and offers 40 spacious rooms and apartments, appointed with original artwork by a rotating cast of local artists. Bathrooms offer waterfall showers, and a large desk and super-fast WiFi make remote work a breeze. Apartments, meanwhile, come in various configurations, from studios to a three-bedroom Presidential Suite. One recommendation? Book directly through the hotel, which scores you a complimentary minibar. Very nice.

Need to Knows

  • 40 guest rooms and apartments (Classic King Studio, Classic King Studio – Wheelchair Friendly, Classic King Studio Triple, Classic Queen Twin Studio, Classic King Apartment, Classic Two-Bedroom Apartment, Deluxe King Studio, Deluxe King Apartment, Luxury King Apartment, Luxury One-Bedroom Apartment, Luxury Two-Bedroom Apartment, Presidential Suite).
  • Check-in: 2pm; Check-out: 11am.
  • All rooms and apartments are equipped with a minibar, HD flat-screen smart TV, complimentary WiFi, iron and ironing board, tea and coffee facilities, hairdryer and Orana toiletries. Some apartments feature a kitchenette and washing machine.

What’s There

The property is also home to Batavia Coast Conference Centre, the largest conference and events centre between Perth and Broome, which can accommodate up to 400 people.

What’s Around

Geraldton is famous as a coastal city with a maritime heritage. Some flock here as a gateway to the Abrolhos Islands, which are reachable by boat or scenic flight; others come to see the wildflowers in bloom from July to October. Year-round, the city is an ideal stopover from Perth to Exmouth and beyond. While passing through, pay a visit to the Museum of Geraldton, Geraldton Regional Art Gallery and the HMAS Sydney II Memorial – all within a one-kilometre radius from the hotel.

What’s Super Special

Catching a sunset from the only rooftop bar in town is not to be missed, with 270-degree views over the waters towards the port and its buzzing boat activity. Nowhere else could you possibly find yourself on a sofa in an upcycled cargo container, set amongst old fishing paraphernalia—think ropes and old crayfish pots – sampling some of the best beers, wines and spirits the state has to offer.

Children

A self-contained apartment is the best bet for families, especially room 702 – the two-bedroom option on the top floor with a large private balcony, a separate lounge and a smart TV. The hotel’s location, just meters from the safe waters of Town Beach, is another major draw for the kids.

Breakfast

The Gerald doesn’t serve breakfast, but there are excellent eateries with brunch classics minutes from the hotel. The three-cheese scrambled eggs at Cafe Fleur and Piper Lane Cafe’s brekkie burrito are two favourites.

Eating and Drinking

Both on-site dining options – Old Man & The Sea and Bob’s Boutique Bar – are much loved among Gero locals. The former’s one-of-a-kind rooftop vibe is a big selling point, as are the cocktails, WA beers and wines, paired with solid pub fare and outstanding service. The latter is a low-lit nighttime hangout, known for tapas, cocktails, live music and the 70-strong selection of gins, which is Geraldton’s largest. Drop in for an apéritif, a nightcap or – better yet – make a night of it. 

Things to Book

Live music at Bob’s pulls big crowds, as do special events like Ginstronomy – a food and gin pairing night that’s part of the annual Shore Leave Festival. Check the hotel website for updates, and book ahead.