The Westin Sydney

Guide to Gay Friendly Hotels in Sydney Australia (2023 Updated)

Gay travelers  consider Sydney to be something of best place to travel as a gay couple: a city that hosts wildly popular events such as the annual Mardi Gras parade; or Fat Tuesday, refers to events of the Carnival celebration, beginning on or after the Christian feasts of the Epiphany and culminating on the day before Ash Wednesday. In 2021 the Madi Gras parade will be on March 5. So better book from now your gay friendly hotel Sydney.

Sydney, capital of New South Wales and one of Australia’s largest cities, is best known for its harbourfront Sydney Opera House, with a distinctive sail-like design. Massive Darling Harbour and the smaller Circular Quay port are hubs of waterside life, with the arched Harbour Bridge and esteemed Royal Botanic Garden nearby. Sydney Tower’s outdoor platform, the Skywalk, offers 360-degree views of the city and suburbs.

 

Top attractions to visit in Sydney

The best times to visit Sydney are September through November and from March to May. These months skirt Sydney’s high and low seasons, offering visitors comfortable temperatures and manageable tourist crowds.

 

Sydney Day Trips

 

 

1. Hotel Challis Sydney – Gay Friendly Hotel Sydney

Built in the early 1900s, the renovated Hotel Challis offers affordable boutique accommodation in Sydney’s stylish Potts Point area. It features a sunny outdoor courtyard, and communal laundry facilities.

Hotel Challis Sydney is located 5 minutes’ walk from both Woolloomooloo Bay and Kings Cross, Sydney’s entertainment and nightlife district. Sydney city centre is a 10-minute drive away.

All rooms have a TV, a refrigerator and tea/coffee making facilities. Each room has air-conditioning, free WiFi up to 500MB per day, a work desk and a private en suite bathroom.

Gay Friendly Hotel Sydney
Gay Friendly Hotel Sydney

Hotel Challis offers a boutique hotel experience in Potts Point. Accommodation is set over two beautifully restored and completely renovated terrace homes. Hotel rooms feature premium bedding, free WiFi access, air-conditioning, large flat screen TV, a work desk and chic en suite bathroom with amenities. Walking distance to Kings Cross train station and only 10 minutes to Circular Quay

All rooms have a TV, a refrigerator and tea/coffee making facilities. Each room has air-conditioning, free WiFi up to 500MB per day, a work desk and a private en suite bathroom.

Hotel is close to Kings Cross Station and quality restaurants and cafes, walk to CBD through Botanical Gardens.

Close to everything you need in Potts Point including Kings Cross station and bus route. Great location for exercise and quick walk into city via Botanical Gardens.

Best  room to book is the with balcony oneroom good size with small bathroom (shower only). Balcony is shared with other room.

The rooms are  clean, there is a small fridge, tea/coffee making facilities, a wardrobe, desk, 2 other tables and a king size bed.

View was good and the room os comfortable. WIFI available but rationed – I used limit quickly and they provided more at no cost. The shower and bathroom are spotless clean.

Tea & coffee facilities in room and water fountain in lounge. There is a laundry room in the hotel & you can buy the tokens & powder at reception.

Although it is bed only (no restaurant or bar here) there are so many good places to eat – highly recommend La Buvette for breakfast which is virtually next door – great food & fab, friendly service.

The room had all the things that we needed and was clean. The location is great because there are a lot of bars and small eating places nearby. Public transportation is very close by and easy to walk into the city centre.

Great location surrounded by restaurants and not a far walk to the water. Parking 500m from hotel and you receive a discount for it when you stay st the hotel.

Room sizes quite large with good size beds. Rooms quite modern, including furniture but still has a heritage feel. was lucky enough to get a balcony room which was relaxing to eat breakfast on.

The hotel is in a perfect location in Potts point along a quiet road but right in the heart of the nice restaurants, and away from kings cross. About a 15 minute walk into the city via the botanical gardens and is gorgeous. Also very close to the wharf at Woolloomooloo.

We used the gym facilities which was a 10 minute walk to kings cross and was great to have the option of a proper gym membership. For breakfast make sure you try the Farm just a 2 minute walk away – delicious organic breakfasts. Would definitely recommend – a lovely little hotel in a perfect location.

Gay Hotel Sydney
Gay Hotel Sydney

How much does a room costs at Hotel Challis?

Prices start 90$/night for the Small Double Room.  The King Room is 120$/night with breakfast included.

This stylish modern king room features a digital LCD TV, a fridge and a small en suite bathroom.

500 MB of free WiFi is provided per day.

Where to book online  –  Hotel Challis  – LGBT Friendly HotelS Sydney – you can find the best resort deals in Sydney on Booking.com and Trip.com.

 

2. Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney – Gay Friendly Hotels Sydney

This award-winning 5-star luxury hotel in the heart of Sydney offers stylish accommodation, along with 2 restaurants, 2 bars, a day spa, swimming pool, fitness centre and business centre.
Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney is located in Sydney CBD (Central Business District), just a 10-minute walk from Circular Quay, Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and The Rocks. It is a 15-minute walk from Darling Harbour. The city’s best shopping, dining and nightlife are on the hotel’s doorstep.

Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney
Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney

In the heart of Sydney’s CBD, five-star Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney offers 415 spacious guest rooms with separate bath and shower, along with a service that sets the standard for Sydney hospitality. An easy walk from Circular Quay, The Rocks, Barangaroo and Opera House, and only a few minutes from Wynyard train station makes Amora one of the most desired locations for those travelling on either business or leisure.

Amora’s indoor heated swimming pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, steam room, day spa, complimentary WiFi and 24-hour room service makes the hotel an ideal business and leisure destination. Offering exceptional value for money, Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney is worth the visit.

All rooms feature the latest in-room entertainment options including internet access. The spacious and ultra-modern bathrooms offer separate bath and shower facilities.

The location is fantastic being a short walk to Wynard Station and Circular key and only minutes to Circular Quay and city surrounds. Next door to shopping mall with supermarket.

Rooms are neat, clean and of a high standard with our room overlooking the City. Decor is very nice, two very comfortable double beds and soft comfortable linen.

Great room with views to the west and the city.

The bathroom is so spacious and to have the choice of a bath or shower was great.

Good options at buffet breakfast, including gluten free and vegetarian dishes. Staff is very efficient and friendly.

Brilliant location for seeing the sights and proximity to local transport. About half an hour taxi drive from airport, close to Wynyard Station and a 15 min walk to buses and ferries at Circular Quay for Bondi, Coogee and Manley.

Hotel had great service and a decent Happy Hour every afternoon. Our room on 19th floor was spacious with 2 double beds and large bathroom with bath under window.

Breakfast selection was excellent, egg station available, lovely pastries and fresh coffee.

About a 15 min walk until you get to circular quay and can see the harbour bridge and Opera house, the Rocks, Botanic Park are all within walking distance. In other direction the main shopping area, Victoria House and Sydney Tower are a short walk away.

Just a hop from Wynyard Station means that a train from the airport is most expeditious and cost effective. Just a couple of blocks from the center of restaurants, and Circular Quay, means that dining options and leisurely walks/runs are right outside your doorstep.

The rooms themselves are very comfortable and spacious. The hotel, as a whole, is fairly modern, yet warm and inviting. They keep the entire facility as clean as a whistle. The staff is exceptionally helpful, courteous, and congenial.

The beds are very comfy. Fluffy and clean sheets/blanket, and a variety of pillows make for the most restful sleep.

The internet is spot on reliable. No device limits.

Gay Friendly Hotels Sydney
Gay Friendly Hotels Sydney

How much does a room costs at Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney?

Prices start 140$/night for the Deluxe King Room. Deluxe Twin Room with Club Lounge Access is 280$/night with breakfast included.

Located on level 30 to 34, this room boasts free panoramic views over the city skyline. It offers a digital flat-screen TV and free WiFi. The en suite bathroom has ‘Hydro’ bathroom amenities, black-and-white floor and wall tiling, a deep stand-alone bathtub and a separate shower.

This room includes:
– access to the Executive Club Lounge which offers free breakfast, evening drinks and canapés
– access to the business centre and use of boardroom facilities

Where to book Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney  – Gay Friendly Hotel Sydney – you can find the best resort deals in Sydney on Booking.com and Trip.com.

 

3. The Fullerton Hotel Sydney 5* – Gay Friendly Hotel Sydney

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney
The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Located in Sydney CBD (Central Business District), next to bustling Martin Place, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney features an à la carte restaurant, a bar and access to a fitness centre. It boasts luxurious rooms with unique décor and a flat-screen TV. Some rooms offer stunning city views. Guests enjoy free WiFi in public areas.

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney is 15 minutes’ walk from both Darling Harbour and Chinatown. The Museum of Contemporary Art and Sydney Opera House are each within 20 minutes’ walk. The Fullerton Hotel Sydney Fitness Centre is open 24 hours and is located on level 6 of the Hotel. The Fitness Centre provides cardiovascular equipment, free weights, treadmills and strength equipment.

Steeped in character and elegance, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney is a luxury five-star hotel located in the heart of Sydney’s financial and fashion district, offering both a contemporary tower and historic former General Post Office building experience.

The Sydney Central Business District is abuzz with energy. Power brokers run to and from high rise buildings and after-work drink places, high-end shoppers tour venues like the QVB, and fine diners frequent the many celebrity chef restaurants.

For a dose of culture, walk to the NSW Art Gallery, or visit the Sydney Museum. To escape the hustle and bustle, reconnect with nature at the Sydney Botanical Gardens or picnic lunch at High Park. No matter your interest, be sure to check the full calendar of events hosted by the city, from the Sydney Festival in January to October’s Good Food Month at Hyde Park.

Martin Place is a great location fairly close to everything you need to see in the CBD and close to main attraction during the Mardi Gras weekend.

The hotel is bang in the centre of the CBD on Martin Place and so is a 10 minute walk to Circular Quay and and the Opera House area.

Lots of shopping and restaurants/food outlets within walking distance.

The rooms are spacious and spotless, and have a beautiful view of the city.  The formerly-iconic-post-office hotel’s appearance and the interior design of the old hotels wing is a nice touch. The bed is heavenly comfy and room service was excellent.

The room was gorgeous. Beautifully appointed and with a very comfortable bed. The hotel staff were all super friendly and helpful. The hotel is in the centre of the city but my room was still quiet with minimum traffic noise. I can highly recommend The Fullerton.

My king size room in the heritage part ; is large, neutral decoration, and comfortable. Pluses include central location; Nespresso machine (but only 3 pods☹️); 2 armchairs with ottoman; pillow menu, rain shower; 2 bottles of comp water; fast frequent lifts; good bag service; charming staff.

The environment is unique for the centre of the Sydney along with the beautiful heritage room we selected for our stay. The staff were very helpful and we enjoyed relaxing in the bar and the wide open spaces within the hotel. Breakfast was a delight with good quality offerings and attentive staff. Highly recommended

The Westin Sydney
The Westin Sydney

The rooms at The Westin Sydney are all fabulous, but if you can, book a Heritage Room for old world elegance with current amenities. The rooms are stunning and you’ll immediately feel like you’re transported back in time.

We  would recommend the breakfast in Mosaic restaurant over the club. Mosaic buffet breakfast is excellent even if it’s priced at 45$.

How much does a room costs at The Westin Sydney?

Prices start 350$/night for the Heritage Deluxe Twin Room with daily breakfast. Tower Superior King Room is 300$/night with breakfast included.

Located on floors 3 to 7, these rooms offer a rejuvenating Westin Heavenly® king bed, floor to ceiling glass windows and a spacious bathroom offering a separate deep-soak bath and a Heavenly® shower. The décor is sophisticated and uplifting, with contemporary design elements such as stainless steel and aquamarine glass, light wood tones and neutral fabrics. Entertainment includes a flat-screen TV, DVD player and a BOSE sound system

Where to book online – The Fullerton Hotel Sydney  – Gay Friendly Accommodation Sydney – you can find the best resort deals in Sydney on Booking.com and Trip.com.

 

4. Rydges Sydney Central – Gay Friendly Hotel Sydney

Gay Hotel Sydney
Gay Hotel Sydney

Our next recommendation for a gay hotel in Sydney is a luxury 4* hotels located in downtown Sydney.

One of our top picks in Sydney.Located on the edge of the Sydney Central Business District, Rydges Sydney Central features a 15 m indoor pool, a spa, 1 bar and 2 restaurants

All rooms and suites at the Rydges Sydney Central come with deluxe beds and custom furnishings. Modern amenities include internet access and a large flat-screen TV.

Our Surry Hills hotel, located adjacent to Sydney’s bustling City is just minutes from exciting attractions including Darling Harbour, China Town, Australian Museum Sydney and the Royal Botanic Gardens as well as shopping and dining on Oxford and Crown Street.

Once regarded as the traditional fashion area, Surry Hills has broadened its appeal. This neighborhood continues to distinguish itself as a shopping destination, offering the best collection of one-of-a-kind boutiques, designer brands and flagship stores in the city. Today, this area has evolved into a hub of media, design and professional services – a colorful and diverse place equally known for its antique dealers, art galleries, cafes and pubs. Strolling down the street on a Saturday morning, you’ll see a mix of students, artists, hipsters and a few all-nighters from Oxford Street, the “Gay Capital of Sydney”. In this vibrant neighborhood you will find bohemian chic and modern style co-existing side by side.

Guests enjoy staying in one of 309 recently renovated spacious rooms that afford them the desirable conveniences that make vacations in our Surry Hills accommodation more enjoyable. Guest rooms offer ensuite bathrooms, FREE WI-FI and a sound night’s sleep on comfortable beds.

Guests can work-out in the fitness centre and unwind in the sauna.

The primary reason I booked this hotel was the location – it’s literally a 5 minute walk from Sydney Central train station and after you’ve flown in from Singapore you just want to get to your hotel easily, unpack, get a shower and relax.

The Rydges Sydney Central is perfect.

There are no laundry facilities at the hotel however there is a small coin operated laundromat a few hundred metres away.

There is also a handy 7/Eleven convenience store next door to the hotel that’s ideal to buy snacks and drinks from.

Staff at the hotel were all friendly and helpful.

Location is extremely handy to bus stops and a very short stroll to Central railway station where you can catch a train to anywhere on the rail network including regional and inter-city destinations. I can recommend the breakfast buffet. It has quite a range of choices on offer. It would be a good choice to stay at this hotel for a stay in Sydney

Our suggestion is to book the Deluxe room. It is larger than expected. Two beds and a separate lounge area. The room is clean and the beds very comfy. The room has great city views.  The room itself is above expectations. Clean, well-appointed, and extremely comfortable.

Rydges Sydney Central
Rydges Sydney Central

Great pillows. Wifi okay. Good curtains for sleep. City noises during the night but not very noise. Can hear trains occasionally passing through, but again not too much noise. Can set your own temperatures – good for those who get cold or hot.

Buffet breakfast is fresh with plenty of options. The buffet breakfast is broad and generous, catering for all tastes, palates and dietary requirements. It should be noted that the bacon is of the American style rather than that more familiar to Australian and British diners. The scrambled eggs often have a slight greasy mouth feel which detracted from the overall tastiness. Coffee is complimentary, however it is generated by an instant coffee machine. Barista made coffee is extra.

The hotel bar, Bar Surry Hills, has local craft beer on tap for $5 a schooner all day.

How much does a room costs at Rydges Sydney Central?

Prices start 200$/night for the Superior King Room. The Executive Double Room is 270$/night with breakfast included.

This double room features a bathrobe, air conditioning and minibar.

Where to book Rydges Sydney Central  – Gay Friendly Hotel Sydney – you can find the best resort deals in Sydney on Booking.com and Trip.com.

 

5. 28 Hotel Hotel Sydney – Gay Friendly Hotel Sydney

28 Hotel
28 Hotel

Our last recommendation for a gay friendly hotel in Sydney is a budget 3* hotel with great price & amenities.

Offering free WiFi, room service, an on-site fitness centre, 24-hour front desk and daily servicing, 28 Hotel is located 7 minutes’ walk from Central Train Station.

The property is 8 minutes’ walk from University of Technology Sydney and 14 minutes’ walk from Surry Hills where you will find a range of trendy bars and restaurants. If you feel like an after dinner treat, Koi Dessert Bar is 3 minutes’ walk away.

Each room at 28 Hotel, Sydney has both heating and air-conditioning as well as a bathroom with free toiletries, a shower and a hairdryer. An iPod and a flat-screen TV are provided.

The location close to Central station which is very convenient.  It’s really close to Central Station, Chinatown and Tech University, although the most touristic areas are a bit further away.

Large room with extra single bed offered lots of room.The room are clean, well maintained and all that we needed. The reception staff are vert helpful with directions, advice and information.

28 Hotel Sydney
28 Hotel Sydney

The bathroom has the usual toilet and sink (which is very big) and a shower with overhead spray. Soap, shampoo and hair conditioner are provided by the hotel. The soap and shampoo had a pleasant smell and were gentle on the skin and hair.

In the lobby, there is a Nespresso (?) coffee machine. A selection of teas and coffees as well as hot chocolate powder is available, and cups and covers can be found on top of the machine or off the right of it. Just make your selection and set the machine appropriately and you get the perfect cup of coffee or tea. In the morning, a selection of pastries (croissants, pains au chocolat, and chocolate-chip Danish swirls) are available. All of this is available free of charge!

How much does a room costs at 28 Hotel Sydney?

Prices start 110$/night for the Small Double Room. The Queen  Room  is 125$/night with breakfast included.

This double room features a flat-screen TV and air conditioning

Where to book online – 28 Hotel Sydney  – Gay Friendly Hotels Sydney Australia – you can find the best resort deals in Sydney on Booking.com and Trip.com.

 

You can book an escape tour from Sydney – Blue Mountains

Nature and Wildlife Day Tour from Sydney on GetyourGuide.com

by Sorin

Sorin is a freelance travel writer. He is an experienced travel writer and traveller. Since 2012 he explored more than 60 countries on 4 continents: Asia, Europe, Africa and North America. Currently is based in Romania after spending the last 7 years in Myanmar.