Xyl Seaside Homestay

Firstly, they demanded a $200- "security" deposit to be placed in their bank account before our arrival despite having my credit card details and having already charged the card. They said I would get the deposit back 0-7 days after check-out. I eventually got it back nearly 12 days after check-out following two emails and three phone calls to them. I assume that taking a $200- deposit from each customer and holding it 2-3 weeks supports a side investment of some sort but don't actually know. Despite what we were advised there was not a private bathroom, there was a shared bathroom. Again, despite what the information said there was no restaurant and no breakfast option available so far as we could ascertain. We had a very small room with a bed, a chair, bedside tables a small chest of drawers and an electric kettle that didn't work! The only refrigerator was a communal one in the common space, and one had no idea if the milk etc belonged to another guest or was available for our use. There was a drainage plumbing pipe from upstairs that came through our room from ceiling to floor and created significant noise wherever those upstairs facilities were used. Basically, this was a cheap boarding house with an expensive price. If we had paid $50- that would have been okay but at nearly $140- it was outrageous. There was no on-site presence from the owners/operator, all contact was by telephone. My advice to anyone considering staying here is seek an alternative.

Firstly, whilst I had a 5 star experience I am not saying it is a 5 star hotel. I had my own room which was spotlessly clean, with a wall mounted split-system aircon and tea and coffee making facilities. The shared bathroom was also very clean with a good array of soaps, shampoos etc. Outside, there is a nice secluded area to sit, with a hut to eat with bbq facilities. They have done a good job with the landscaping. I had asked for and received an early check in and late check out (subject to last minute bookings) granted with a smile and “no problem”. The owner/host is very good with her responses to communication, and also friendly. The location is off the main strip but it is a 5 minute walk away. I had a meal at Thai Lime Twist which was very good as well. It would be hard to beat for price and quality in Caloundra, where most other places wanted double what I paid here.