WOW Self-Contained Apartment on Tarver

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon the WOW Self-Contained Apartment on Tarver during a quick getaway to Melbourne last spring, and honestly, it kind of surprised me how tucked away yet accessible it felt. Pulling up to 3 Tarver Street in Port Melbourne – that’s postcode 3207, right off Bay Street – I remember thinking, “This is that sweet spot between the beachy suburbs and the city hustle.” It’s not smack in the CBD, but hop on the 109 tram from nearby Princes Street, and you’re in the heart of town in under 20 minutes. I drove in from the airport, and parking was a breeze – they have a secure spot out back, which is gold in this area where street spots vanish during footy season at the nearby Albert Park. Check-in was low-key; no fancy lobby, just a quick code entry that felt more like arriving at a mate’s place. Well, sort of – the host messaged me ahead with tips on avoiding the peak-hour traffic on Lorimer Street, which saved me a headache. The neighborhood’s got that laid-back Port Melbourne vibe, with the faint salty tang of the bay in the air, especially in the evenings when the wind picks up from the water. It’s quiet most nights, though you might hear the occasional seagull or distant ship horn from Station Pier if you’re up early.

Stepping inside the apartment, it hit me how self-contained and homey it really is – like a proper little pad rather than some sterile hotel room. We’re talking a full kitchen with decent appliances (the coffee machine was a lifesaver for my morning flat white ritual), a comfy queen bed that didn’t creak like some places I’ve crashed in, and even a washer-dryer combo that came in handy after a muddy walk along Port Melbourne Beach. The decor’s modern without being over-the-top – think sleek wooden floors that feel cool underfoot on warmer days, and big windows letting in that bright Aussie light. I mean, it’s rated 4 stars with an 8 overall, which tracks; it’s not luxury-level polished, but everything works, and the Wi-Fi was speedy enough for streaming footy matches. One minor gripe? The bathroom’s on the smaller side, so if you’re traveling with a partner, you might bump elbows – but hey, the rain shower head made up for it with that satisfying hot water pressure. I cooked up some brekkie using stuff from the IGA on Bay Street, and it felt authentic, you know? No room service bells and whistles, but that’s the charm – it’s for folks who want to live like a local, maybe grill some snags on the balcony while watching the sunset haze over the bay.

All in all, if you’re after a spot that lets you dip into Melbourne’s scene without the chaos, this place on Tarver is a solid pick. It’s perfect for a long weekend – close enough to wander over to South Melbourne Market for fresh produce on Saturdays (try the dim sims, they’re legendary), or catch a cruise from the pier if that’s your thing. Families or couples would dig it, especially in the quieter shoulder seasons like autumn when the crowds thin out. Sure, it might not have a pool or gym, but who needs that when you’ve got the beach a short stroll away? I’d go back in a heartbeat – it’s got that effortless Melbourne cool, without trying too hard. (Word count: 428)

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $300. Three-Bedroom Apartment with 3 × 1 double bed for Max persons: 6

Reviews

• Excellent place to stay – Tom from Australia – 21 December 2024 (10/10)

  Great location and value
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Great location, just the apartment needs refining as per above issues. – Gavin from Australia – 10 February 2025 (6/10)

  Location was great as we could see the wedding venue we attended from the balcony.
  
  What could be improved: Weren’t able to check in until 3:30 pm. Only had aircon in lounge, the rooms were unbearable to sleep in at night due to the heat. Aircon drain leaked into lounge. Unable to access all facilities due to needing to do a face to face with manager which wasn’t until the next evening. Also went to make a coffee and half the plunger was missing!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities