New hotel in Victoria’s second-largest city has the best views in town

A new hotel in Geelong, Victoria's second-largest city, has been hailed as offering the best views in town, according to reports published on July 18, 2026. The Crowne Plaza Geelong, which includes a convention center and exhibition space, officially opened its doors to guests in January 2026, while the adjacent Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre became operational on July 1. Designed in collaboration with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, the convention center features a name meaning “open your eyes to the hills,” reflecting the region’s cultural heritage and landscape. Located on Geelong’s waterfront, the hotel is positioned to capitalize on the city’s unique relationship with Corio Bay. Unlike Melbourne’s sprawling Port Phillip Bay, Corio Bay maintains a distinct, bay-like shape, with well-defined boundaries and a thoughtful separation between urban and industrial zones. The city has long prioritized public access to the shoreline, creating wide stretches of parkland that lead down to the bay’s edges. These green corridors provide both recreational opportunities and scenic vistas, complementing the new hotel’s strategic location. The Crowne Plaza stands as a modern addition to Geelong’s evolving waterfront scene. It is directly connected to the Nyaal Banyul Convention and Event Centre, which boasts a seamless architectural design that integrates with the surrounding environment. While the hotel itself takes a more traditional approach with its tower structure, its interior spaces offer a fresh, contemporary aesthetic. Public areas remain somewhat subdued, favoring functionality over flair, though the overall ambiance is described as clean and welcoming. The hotel offers a range of amenities, including a fitness center, swimming pool, and two dining venues. One of the standout features of the hotel is its one-bedroom suite located on the tenth floor. The suite provides panoramic views of Corio Bay, capturing the dynamic activity of the waterfront, yacht races, fishing boats, and the movement of ships in and out of the port. On clear days, visitors can glimpse Melbourne’s central business district from the vantage point of the suite’s large windows. The living area is spacious, featuring a dining table, seating arrangements, a television, and a small refrigerator. The bedroom mirrors the living space in terms of visibility, with an equally impressive outlook. The bathroom is equipped with a separate bathtub and a walk-in shower, adding to the suite’s appeal. Dining options at the hotel include the Skyline Bar on the tenth floor, which offers breathtaking views of Corio Bay. Known for its innovative cocktails and curated selection of local wines, the bar is already drawing attention for its prime location. Below, the Sociali Trattoria & Bar serves as the hub for casual dining, offering an Italian-inspired menu that ranges from simple pizzas and pastas to more refined dishes. Breakfast is also available at this venue, featuring a cooked-to-order egg service. For coffee enthusiasts, the Verde on Smythe Cafe at street level provides high-quality brews alongside pastries and light fare. Geelong’s waterfront continues to evolve, with the new hotel and convention center contributing to the area’s growing reputation as a destination for both leisure and business. The proximity of the hotel to key attractions makes it an ideal base for exploring the city. Visitors can easily reach the Nyaal Banyul Convention Center, which includes a 1000-seat theater and extensive exhibition space. For those seeking more exploration, nearby Johnstone Park leads to the city’s art gallery and library, while the foreshore path extends toward the historic Eastern Beach Sea Baths and the Geelong Botanic Gardens. The Bellarine Peninsula, known for its coastal charm and culinary offerings, is also within easy reach. Staff members at the hotel have received praise for their professionalism and attentiveness, despite the building’s relatively recent completion. As the city continues to develop its waterfront infrastructure, the Crowne Plaza Geelong represents a significant milestone in Geelong’s ongoing transformation into a vibrant, accessible urban center.