Fodor's Expert Review Crowne Plaza Coogee Beach

Live like a local at Coogee Beach, which is just as gorgeous as nearby Bondi, but without the crowds. Accommodations are considerably kinder on the hip pocket, too. This hotel is opposite the beach and has many rooms with balconies looking out to fabulous ocean views, so be sure to ask for one when you book. The rooms are bright and spacious and feature smart TVs so you can screen media from your own device if you don't like the range of on-demand movies available. There's a heated outdoor pool, on-site tennis court, and well-equipped gym as well as secure undercover parking (A$25 per day). The Oceans Dining & Drinks bar is a great place for a cocktail or casual meal—the views are spectacular—or if you fancy something a little more special try Bluesalt, the hotel's fine dining restaurant. There's free Wi-Fi in all the rooms for 20 minutes. While not quite as buzzy as Bondi, Coogee has a great selection of cafés and restaurants and they are all within a few minutes' stroll from the hotel. If you do want to head to Bondi it's only a short taxi drive away, or step out on the clifftop walking trail via Clovelly and Bronte Beach—it's a fantastic half-day walk.