Based only on a one night stay this seemed a nice all round hotel. For us it didn't excel but more importantly it didn't disappoint. Rooms are a good size, we were next to the lift but it was still quiet. It seems as if the rooms are categorised on the view. Our little balcony looked over the front entrance and the marina to one side. This was fine, but if staying longer the marina elevation would probably be worth paying extra for. Lovely large, comfortable bed, easy and fast check in/check out and free parking. If they included the breakfast I would be giving this hotel 5 stars.
The great majority of guests to the Mandurah Quay Resort (MQR), are families with young children. Most of the activity takes place around the 22m pool and the spa bath. There is also a large playing field for volleyball, ball games and dog exercise. At times the children can be noisy but no more than one would expect. MQR is splendidly situated just a few miles south of central Mandurah and within walking distance of the Peel Inlet and numerous bush walks. My wife and I were not typical guests. Whereas most families stayed for only two or three nights and were comparatively local we were newly arrived from the UK and were staying for four weeks. We were therefore initially disappointed that there was no room safe. Clearly however this would be unnecessary for most guests. Our upstairs apartment was very spacious, clean and well equipped. We had a pleasant balcony with views over the pool and the playing field. Because so many guests do not stay long there is a quick turnover and we learned to take advantage of this by timing our swims around midday when many had checked out. We had a weekly cleaning service which was always first class. We would have liked some cushions especially for the balcony chairs although we understand that like a few other items they do go “missing”. Our main disappointment was the gym. It was one of the main reasons we booked MQR. We feel that is in the wrong position right up close to the pool. It would be better sited further away on the large playing area. This would have two advantages. It would discourage children wandering into the gym and risking injury. It would also enable the pool surround to be upgraded with perhaps some artificial grass and more loungers. This of course would involve significant capital expenditure. Less radical would be the provision of air conditioning in place of the fan and the replacement of much of the very old equipment. If absolutely nothing else is done a weights rack could be provided which might help to keep the free weights tidier. No mention of MQR would be complete without paying tribute to Naomi and Damien who manage the complex. They are so efficient, professional, and pleasant that the owners are very fortunate to have them on site. We enjoyed our four weeks so much that we have already booked for next year.
I booked to stay for one night, but extended it by another night, would probably have stayed a third if commitments had allowed-which is pretty much a recommendation in itself. I'm retired and travel alone if that's useful to know The accommodation is basic but has everything you need for a base to explore from. I can't stress enough how extremely clean it was, with attention to detail. If you want thick carpets and 4* luxury this isn't for you but if you're looking for an ideal location, with plenty of nice bars and cafes nearby but also within easy walking distance, along the foreshore to the boardwalk and marina, it's ideal-and affordable The shower was good, lots of hot water and a full-size fridge was a nice discovery. The bed was very comfortable, I slept extremely well. Noise does travel and it was possible to hear people in other rooms-but not enough to be a problem. The WiFi was a little unpredictable -(but it's free) but as you head towards the boardwalk area there is Mandurah WiFi available to log on to. If you want to cut costs there's a lovely Vietnamese bakery a few streets along that does takeaway sandwiches, salads, pies, etc, and a fabulous range of cakes and pastries, all very reasonably priced. There's also a bottleshop directly opposite the motel and Woolworths not far away, all within walking distance. I didn't use the small pool at the motel but it looked very clean and had chairs and loungers around it. The manager was helpful and it's possible to leave a small case if you arrive before check-in. Getting there is easy- I travelled by train then hopped on the circular bus and got off at the stop directly outside the motel. I will be returning!