Hotel openings and news to get excited about in 2025
Updated . First published
Aussies are keen to travel more than ever this year and there are plenty of new properties both here at home in Australia and around the world opening their doors to guests this year.
Here are some of the most exciting hotel openings happening this year...
Gladius, Parramatta Hotels & Suites, an Ascend Collection Hotel
After an extensive refresh, Gladius has opened in the heart of Parramatta, offering elevated guest rooms and suites.
It is part of the upscale Ascend Collection Hotels, and has undergone a complete transformation.
"The redesign blends clean lines with soft tonal palettes and sophisticated detailing, preserving its Art Deco charm while delivering contemporary comfort," says Sumit Jolly, Gladius Managing Director.
Updates include a refreshed lobby, revitalised guest rooms with marble flooring, and amenities like private outdoor patios and spa baths.
InterContinental Coogee
A beloved Sydney landmark has received a makeover. The old Crown Plaza in the Sydney beach suburb of Coogee has now been transformed into the InterContinental Coogee.
Now welcoming guests, the reimagined hotel features 198 rooms, as well as the addition of British chef Rick Stein's restaurant boasting "fresh seafood, simply prepared" - it's set to become a must-visit A-list hotspot.
Guests can also enjoy Shutters Restaurant and Bar, the hotel's new-look in-house restaurant.
Rooms will be chic and minimal, with some even having luxurious outdoor baths.
"Each room has been thoughtfully designed to create a serene retreat where Sydney's stunning coastline becomes part of the guest experience," hotel bosses say.
Coming in March 2026 will be the hotel's "leisure deck" featuring the ocean-facing infinity edge swimming pool, poolside bar, outdoor event terrace, day spa and Club InterContinental.
The old Crowne Plaza originally opened in 1991 on the popular beachfront.
The Straddie Hotel
The Straddie Hotel on North Stradbroke Island has had a big revamp.
At Port Lookout on the island off the Queensland coast, the island can be reached by ferry from Brisbane making it ideal for a day trip or overnight stay.
The pub has both rooms and apartments to stay in on what is the second largest sand island in the world.
The island was badly hit by Cyclone Alfred earlier this year.
The redevelopment introduces a collection of new and refreshed spaces, including a breezy upper deck, a second bar, a reimagined bistro and main bar, and an expanded all-weather deck with panoramic views.
The Headland Room has also been redeveloped as a beachfront space overlooking Cylinder Beach. It now hosts up to 120 seated or 250 cocktail-style.
General Manager Fenn McDonnell, said: "Reopening The Straddie Hotel has been about protecting everything locals and regulars love while elevating the experience for a new generation.
"We've created a venue that's relaxed, social and unmistakably Queensland - cold beer, great food, locally sourced produce, ocean views and that effortless island rhythm."
Menu highlights include fish tacos, prawn and bug cocktails and sweet–spicy chicken wings, hand-stretched pizzas and staples like chicken schnitzel, fish and chips and burgers.
Sofitel New York
The Sofitel New York has reopened after a massive makeover.
The revamp aims to celebrate "celebrate the fusion of classic French elegance and modern Manhattan glamour."
The new heart of the hotel is Social 45, Bar & Bistro, a venue created for day into late-night dining.
The menu pairs French classics with New York-inspired creations, such as decadent grilled cheese with caviar.
