Nestled at 9 Vicar Street in the vibrant beachside suburb of Coogee, just eight kilometres southeast of Sydney's central business district, the Coogee Bay Boutique Hotel stands as a landmark entertainment and hospitality destination. For over 150 years, this heritage-listed venue has served as the beating heart of the Coogee community, transforming from a humble school in the 1860s into one of Sydney's most beloved beachside hotels. Today, the Coogee Bay Boutique Hotel offers guests an exceptional combination of boutique accommodation, multiple bars and restaurants, live entertainment, and, importantly for gaming enthusiasts, a premier pokies gaming experience that draws players from across the Eastern Suburbs and beyond.
The hotel's location on Coogee Bay Road positions it perfectly for both local patrons and tourists seeking the quintessential Australian beach pub experience combined with quality gaming facilities. With Coogee Beach just a five-minute walk away and stunning ocean views from select rooms, the venue has mastered the art of blending coastal relaxation with exciting entertainment options.
For those interested in pokies gaming, Coogee Bay Boutique Hotel has established itself as a premier destination in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney. The hotel features approximately 30 electronic gaming machines (EGMs), commonly known as pokies or poker machines throughout Australia. These machines are strategically integrated within the hotel's expansive Sports Bar area, creating an atmosphere where gaming enthusiasts can enjoy their favourite pastime alongside world-class sports viewing and dining options.
The gaming facilities at Coogee Bay Hotel operate within the framework of New South Wales gaming regulations, offering a secure and responsible gaming environment. According to industry reports, the venue ranks as the 59th most profitable gaming pub in New South Wales, with its 30 poker machines generating significant revenue under a 2 am liquor licence. This profitability speaks to both the quality of the gaming experience and the venue's ability to attract dedicated players.
The gaming machines at Coogee Bay Boutique Hotel are accessible during the Sports Bar's extensive operating hours:
|
Day |
Opening Hours |
|
Monday to Thursday |
10:00 AM – 4:00 AM |
|
Friday |
10:00 AM – 6:00 AM |
|
Saturday |
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
|
Sunday |
9:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
These generous operating hours provide flexibility for players who prefer gaming during different times of day, from morning sessions to late-night play. The extended weekend hours particularly cater to visitors who want to combine their beach holiday with evening entertainment and gaming opportunities.
Players can enjoy their gaming sessions in comfortable surroundings with full access to the Sports Bar's food and beverage services. The venue features platinum TAB facilities alongside the pokies machines, creating a comprehensive entertainment hub for those who enjoy multiple forms of gaming and betting.
While specific machine models rotate periodically to keep the gaming floor fresh and exciting, Coogee Bay Hotel maintains a selection of modern video gaming machines from leading manufacturers. Players can expect to find popular titles featuring various themes, from classic fruit machines to contemporary video pokies with bonus rounds, free spins, and progressive jackpot opportunities.
The gaming area benefits from the Sports Bar's impressive audiovisual setup, with over 15 screens, including two mega-screens, ensuring that players can keep track of live sporting events while enjoying their gaming sessions. This dual-entertainment approach has proven particularly popular during major sporting events when the atmosphere becomes electric with energy from both sports fans and gaming enthusiasts.
Savvy players at Coogee Bay Boutique Hotel can take advantage of the venue's Loyalty Program membership. According to the hotel's membership terms and conditions, members earn redeemable points at the rate of one point for every five Australian dollars of turnover on electronic gaming machines within the venue. These accumulated points can be redeemed for various rewards, making regular play more rewarding.
The loyalty program represents the hotel's commitment to recognising and rewarding its regular patrons. Members also gain access to exclusive promotions, special events, and member-only benefits that enhance the overall gaming and entertainment experience.
Reviews from patrons who have experienced the gaming facilities at Coogee Bay Hotel paint a picture of a well-managed, professional environment. The venue's TripAdvisor listings mention the presence of "casino (games area - slot machines)" as one of the hotel's various facilities, alongside the beach bar, sports bar, and pool/spa/gym area.
Gaming experts who have assessed venues across Sydney's Eastern Suburbs consistently note that Coogee Bay Hotel strikes an excellent balance between gaming facilities and broader entertainment offerings. Unlike dedicated gaming venues that can feel sterile, the integration of pokies within the vibrant Sports Bar atmosphere creates a more social, engaging environment where players feel part of a larger entertainment experience rather than isolated at machines.
The venue's commitment to responsible service of gaming is evident in its practices and staff training. Signs throughout the gaming area provide information about gambling help resources, and staff are trained to identify and assist patrons who may need support.
For those interested in exploring additional gaming options in the Coogee area, several other venues offer pokies facilities within easy reach of Coogee Bay Boutique Hotel:
|
Venue Name |
Address |
Gaming Machines |
Distance from Coogee Bay Hotel |
|
Coogee Diggers Club and Gym |
2 Byron Street, Coogee NSW 2034 |
30+ machines |
400 meters (5-minute walk) |
|
South Coogee Bowling Club |
5-7 Henning Avenue, South Coogee NSW 2034 |
10 machines |
1.2 kilometres (15-minute walk) |
|
Coogee Legion Club |
200 Arden Street, Coogee NSW 2034 |
Various machines |
600 meters (8-minute walk) |
|
Clovelly Hotel |
381 Clovelly Road, Clovelly NSW 2031 |
Multiple machines |
2.5 kilometres (drive or bus) |
The Coogee Diggers Club, located just a short stroll from Coogee Bay Hotel at Byron Street, offers a more traditional club atmosphere with over 30 poker machines complemented by gym facilities and dining options. This venue operates with more standard hours (open until 10 pm most nights) and appeals to locals seeking a community club environment.
South Coogee Bowling Club provides a different experience altogether, combining lawn bowling facilities with their smaller pokies room containing approximately 10 machines. The club's "Bistro on the Greens" restaurant and relaxed lawn setting make it popular with an older demographic seeking a quieter gaming environment.
The proximity of these alternative venues creates a mini "gaming precinct" in Coogee, allowing enthusiasts to venue-hop and experience different atmospheres and machine selections within the same suburb. However, Coogee Bay Hotel's unique combination of beachside location, extensive operating hours, boutique accommodation, and comprehensive entertainment options gives it distinct advantages over these competitors.
Gaming industry analysts who track the performance and player satisfaction across Sydney's licensed venues consistently rank Coogee Bay Hotel favourably. The venue's strong financial performance—ranking 59th among gaming pubs in New South Wales—indicates healthy player engagement and satisfaction.
Hospitality experts point to several factors that contribute to the venue's success as a gaming destination. The integration of pokies within a broader entertainment complex means players have multiple reasons to visit and stay longer. The availability of quality dining options, from pub classics in the Sports Bar to more refined offerings at Marra Bar & Grill, ensures that gaming sessions can be interspersed with excellent meals.
The Sports Bar's reputation for showing every major sporting event on its impressive screen setup creates a unique synergy with gaming operations. Many patrons arrive for a specific sporting event, engage with gaming machines during breaks or quieter periods, and create an entire afternoon or evening of varied entertainment.
Security and gaming integrity experts note that venues of Coogee Bay Hotel's calibre maintain their machines to the highest standards, ensuring fair play and reliable operation. Regular auditing and maintenance, as required by NSW gaming regulations, give players confidence in the integrity of their gaming experience.
Accessing Coogee Bay Boutique Hotel is straightforward whether arriving from Sydney's CBD, the airport, or elsewhere in the metropolitan area.
By Public Transport: The hotel is well-served by Sydney's bus network. Multiple bus routes terminate or pass through Coogee, with the Byron Street bus station located within easy walking distance. Routes 372, 373, and 374 connect Coogee to Central Station and the CBD, while Route 353 provides connections to Bondi Junction.
By Car: Drivers will find the hotel at 253 Coogee Bay Road (with accommodation entrance at 9 Vicar Street). From Sydney Airport, the journey takes approximately 20 minutes via the Eastern Distributor and Anzac Parade. Free street parking is available in surrounding streets, though spaces can be limited during peak beach season and weekends.
By Taxi or Rideshare: Uber, Ola, and taxi services operate extensively throughout the Eastern Suburbs. The journey from Sydney CBD typically takes 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic, with fares ranging from AU$25-40. From Sydney Airport, expect a 20-minute journey costing approximately AU$35-50.
By Foot: The hotel sits at the northern end of the famous Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, a stunning 6-kilometre clifftop path that ranks among Sydney's most popular walking experiences. Visitors staying in Bondi, Bronte, or Clovelly can enjoy this scenic walk before arriving at the hotel.
Beyond its gaming and entertainment offerings, Coogee Bay Boutique Hotel provides 51 rooms across two distinct accommodation styles, making it an ideal destination for visitors seeking a gaming holiday combined with beachside relaxation.
The Bay Rooms are located above the main bar at 253 Coogee Bay Road and embrace the venue's 150-year heritage while offering modern, retro-chic comfort. These recently refurbished rooms provide a unique stay experience with several categories:
|
Room Type |
Features |
Capacity |
|
Bay Signature |
Natural light, window day bed, private ensuite |
1-2 guests |
|
Bay Deluxe |
Top floor, shared balcony, garden views, ensuite |
1-2 guests |
|
Bay Suite |
Ocean views, lounge area, shared balcony with Wedding Cake Island views |
1-2 guests |
|
Bay Interconnecting |
Perfect for small groups, private bathroom |
1-4 guests |
|
Bay Mini |
Compact room ideal for solo travellers, top floor |
1-2 guests |
Important Note: Bay Rooms are accessed via stairs only, though staff gladly assist with luggage. Check-in for Bay Rooms occurs at the reception desk located at the Boutique Rooms building at 9 Vicar Street.
Located at 9 Vicar Street in a separate building behind the main hotel, the Boutique Rooms offer a quieter, more secluded beachside experience. These rooms are designed for guests seeking comfort and tranquillity while remaining steps away from all the hotel's entertainment facilities.
Both accommodation styles include modern amenities such as in-room WiFi, air conditioning, quality linens, and contemporary bathrooms. The hotel's "book direct" policy guarantees the best available rates when reserving through their official website, and regular promotional packages provide excellent value.
Guests frequently praise the proximity to Coogee Beach, the convenience of having world-class dining and entertainment literally downstairs, and the characterful rooms that reflect the hotel's heritage. The combination of boutique accommodation with comprehensive entertainment facilities, including gaming, creates a unique proposition that distinguishes Coogee Bay Hotel from standard beachside accommodation.
The Coogee Bay Boutique Hotel complex encompasses multiple distinct venues, each offering unique dining and entertainment experiences:
Sports Bar: As previously detailed, this is the epicentre of gaming and sports viewing, serving hearty pub classics including pizzas, wings, schnitzels, and burgers. The bar features pool tables, platinum TAB facilities, tipping competitions, and arcade games alongside the pokies machines. Weekly specials include Meaty Mondays (steak specials), Taco Tuesdays, Parmi Wednesdays, and Pastabilities Thursdays. Happy Hour runs Monday to Friday from 3-6 pm with drink specials.
The Garden: This stunning outdoor area represents the heart of the hotel's social atmosphere. Operating from 4 pm late Monday-Friday and 12 pm late on weekends, The Garden offers fresh air dining with ocean views, cocktails, tap beers, and a menu focused on pizzas, burgers, and seafood platters. Live music performances featuring acoustic folk, pop, and soul artists occur regularly, and exclusive cabanas are available for booking.
Marra Bar & Grill: For guests seeking a more refined dining experience, Marra Bar & Grill provides seasonal menus in a sophisticated setting. This venue caters to special occasions and those wanting elevated cuisine beyond typical pub fare.
The Barrel Bottle Shop: Located on-site, The Barrel allows guests to purchase wines, spirits, and beers at bottle shop prices, perfect for taking drinks back to rooms or stocking up for beach picnics.
Selina's Sydney: This iconic live music venue within the hotel hosts major concerts and events, maintaining Coogee Bay Hotel's reputation as a significant contributor to Sydney's live music scene.
Functions and Events: The hotel operates a professional functions centre capable of hosting corporate events, weddings, and private celebrations. The proximity to Coogee Beach makes it particularly popular for wedding receptions, while the comprehensive facilities appeal to business events.
Community Involvement: True to its heritage as the community's "heart and hub," Coogee Bay Hotel maintains partnerships with local sports clubs and supports community initiatives through fundraising events and sponsorships.
Merchandise: The hotel's branded merchandise line includes t-shirts, totes, stubby holders, towels, and beach accessories, allowing guests to take home memorabilia from their visit.
Sports Viewing: With over 15 screens, including two mega-screens, the venue shows NRL, AFL, rugby union, racing, basketball, football (soccer), NBL, NFL, cricket, tennis, golf, motor racing, and virtually every major sporting event. UFC and boxing matches are broadcast live and loud, creating an electric atmosphere on fight nights.
Primary Address: 253 Coogee Bay Road, Coogee NSW 2034, Australia
Accommodation Check-in: 9 Vicar Street, Coogee NSW 2034, Australia
Phone: (02) 9665 0000
Website: coogeebayhotel.com.au
Liquor Licence: LIQH 400101449 Coogee
Dress Code: Smart casual dress code applies after 8 pm (no thongs/flip-flops or singlets/tank tops)
Payment Methods: All major credit cards accepted, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express
Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible via the Coogee Bay Road entrance. The Garden can be accessed via a small ramp at the function centre entrance (located in The Barrel driveway off Arden Street).
Pet Policy: Currently, pets are not permitted within the venue, though management is exploring options for pet-friendly areas in the future.
Smoking Policy: Smoking and vaping are only permitted in the designated smoking area within The Garden.
Beyond the hotel itself, Coogee offers numerous attractions within walking distance:
Coogee Beach: Five minutes on foot, this beautiful beach offers swimming, snorkelling, and the famous Coogee Ocean Baths for protected swimming.
Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk: This spectacular 6km clifftop walk showcases some of Sydney's most stunning coastal scenery, passing through Tamarama, Bronte, Clovelly, and Gordons Bay.
Coogee Pavilion: A popular beachfront dining and entertainment complex offering multiple dining levels and ocean views.
Wedding Cake Island: Visible from certain hotel rooms, this small rocky island sits offshore and is a prominent Coogee landmark.
Randwick Racecourse: A short drive away, this historic racing venue hosts major events, including The Everest, the world's richest turf horse race.
Centennial Park: One of Sydney's premier parks, perfect for cycling, jogging, or picnicking, located approximately 4km away.
Sydney CBD: Just 20 minutes by bus or car, offering world-class shopping, dining, cultural attractions, and Sydney Harbour.
For international visitors, understanding Australian gaming culture and currency is essential. Australia has one of the highest per-capita rates of gaming machines in the world, with "pokies" being a deeply ingrained part of pub and club culture, particularly in New South Wales.
All gaming at Coogee Bay Hotel is conducted in Australian Dollars (AUD). Gaming machines accept various denominations, typically from AUD$0.01 to AUD$2.00 per line, with multiple paylines available. Most modern machines also accept notes from AUD$5 to AUD$100, and payout tickets can be redeemed at the bar or inserted into other machines.
For currency exchange, international visitors should note that banks, hotels, and dedicated exchange services throughout Sydney offer competitive rates. ATMs are widely available, including near Coogee Bay Hotel, and most accept international cards, though fees may apply.
Coogee Bay Boutique Hotel takes its responsible service of gaming obligations seriously. The venue operates under strict New South Wales gaming regulations and maintains the following commitments:
Staff trained in recognising problem gambling behaviours and intervention techniques
Information about gambling help resources is prominently displayed in gaming areas
Self-exclusion programs are available for patrons who wish to ban themselves from gaming facilities
Responsible advertising that doesn't target vulnerable populations
Strict age verification procedures ensure that only patrons 18 years and older have access to gaming facilities
Clock displays ensure players can track time spent gaming
ATM restrictions during certain hours to reduce impulsive gambling behaviour
The venue also clearly displays that it is against the law to sell or supply alcohol to, or obtain alcohol on behalf of, persons under 18 years of age, reflecting its commitment to legal compliance and patron welfare across all operations.
Yes, Coogee Bay Boutique Hotel features approximately 30 electronic gaming machines (pokies) located within the Sports Bar area. These machines operate during the bar's extended hours, from 10 am-4 am Monday-Thursday, 10 am-6 am Friday, 9 am-6 am Saturday, and 9 am-10 pm Sunday.
The hotel is approximately a five-minute walk from Coogee Beach. The main venue sits at 253 Coogee Bay Road, positioning it perfectly for guests who want to combine beach activities with accommodation, dining, and gaming entertainment. Some room categories even offer ocean views.
Yes, the hotel operates a Loyalty Program where members earn one point for every five Australian dollars of turnover on electronic gaming machines. These points can be redeemed for various rewards, and members receive access to exclusive promotions and special events.
The hotel offers 51 rooms across two styles: Bay Rooms (located above the main bar with ocean views and heritage character) and Boutique Rooms (in a separate building at 9 Vicar Street offering quieter beachside comfort). Room types range from compact Bay Mini rooms to spacious Bay Suites with ocean views, accommodating 1-4 guests depending on configuration.
The hotel is approximately 20 minutes from Sydney Airport by car via the Eastern Distributor and Anzac Parade. Taxi or rideshare services cost approximately AUD$35-50. Alternatively, you can take a train to Central Station and connect to bus routes 372, 373, or 374, which serve Coogee.
The venue features multiple dining options: the Sports Bar (pub classics like burgers, pizzas, wings, and schnitzels), The Garden (outdoor dining with cocktails and beachside atmosphere), Marra Bar & Grill (elevated seasonal dining), and The Barrel on-site bottle shop. Daily food specials run throughout the week.
Yes, several alternative gaming venues operate nearby: Coogee Diggers Club (400m away with 30+ machines), South Coogee Bowling Club (1.2km with 10 machines), and Coogee Legion Club (600m). However, Coogee Bay Hotel offers the most extensive operating hours and integrated entertainment experience.
Smart casual dress is required after 8 pm. This means no thongs (flip-flops) or singlets (tank tops) after this time. During daytime hours, the dress code is more relaxed given the beachside location.
Yes, the hotel operates professional function facilities suitable for corporate events, weddings, and private celebrations. The venue can accommodate various group sizes and offers customizable food and beverage packages, entertainment options, and professional event coordination.
The Sports Bar features over 15 screens, including two mega-screens showing NRL, AFL, rugby union, racing, basketball, football (soccer), cricket, tennis, golf, motor racing, NBL, NFL, UFC, and boxing. If it's televised, the venue likely broadcasts it.