Original North Australian, Bowen ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

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Key details

About the Hotel

55 Herbert Street, Bowen, Australia

Near the beach and water park

Great

8.2

/10

5.0

4.5

Loved by Original North Australian Motel guests

Clean room
Great food
Comfortable bed
Fantastic staff
Great location

"Fantastic food, best rissoles I've ever had! Staff were great."

Rich O from Ireland

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"The accommodation is very comfortable and clean."

Claire from United Kingdom

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"Sat outside due to having my little dog with me and a lady who worked there came out with a small dog bowl with some treats for my Trixie."

Colleen S from Australia

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Location

The Original North Australian Hotel is situated at the corner of Herbert St and Williams St in Bowen. Guests can enjoy easy access to local events such as the Don River Dash and the Bowen River Rodeo. This positioning makes it a convenient starting point for exploring Bowen's beautiful beaches and attractions.

Rooms

The hotel offers a variety of well-appointed rooms, including twin, queen, and family rooms that cater to different needs. Each room includes essentials like flat-screen TVs, modern air conditioning, and outside seating. Options for off-season pricing add value for all guests.

Dining

The Original North Australian Hotel boasts a popular bar and grill where meals are served seven days a week. A diverse menu showcases options from wood-fired pizzas to schnitzels and fresh seafood. Guests can also enjoy takeaway service, providing the same quality meals without dining in.

Entertainment

The hotel is a favored local venue for live music events, creating a lively atmosphere for guests. Weekly performances from local artists enhance the experience, especially during special occasions. Regular events, including Thursday specials, provide opportunities for guests to enjoy engaging content.

Pet-Friendly Policies

The Original North Australian Hotel allows pets in designated outdoor areas, catering to guests traveling with furry companions. This policy ensures that all members of the family can enjoy a stay at the hotel. Outdoor seating provides a comfortable spot for pets and their owners alike.

Highlights

Location: Corner of Herbert St and Williams St

Dining: Popular bar and grill serves meals seven days a week

Rooms: Twin, queen, and family rooms available

Entertainment: Regular live music events

“The Original North Australian, a historic venue in Bowen since 1862, blends charm with modern upgrades. Its central location, close to Bowen's beach and water park, is a definite advantage, and the diverse dining options, including pub fare and the promise of wood-fired pizza, add to its appeal. I particularly appreciate the live music and the sense of community engagement, which makes this more than just a place to stay.”

James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Great

8.9/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningQuick, delicious!

Dinner at the bar was fast and tasty. The rissoles are a must-try! I recommend eating outside.

Oliver from Canada

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Guest ParkingEasy parking

There is parking right outside the rooms. It's very convenient.

Chloe from Australia

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BedroomImmaculate bedding

The brilliant white sheets were very soft. The towels were fluffy.

Rajesh from India

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DiningDog friendly

They brought my dog water and treats! The chicken schnitzel with garlic prawns was delicious.

Mei from China

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View all

Select your room type

Original North Australian Motel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Twin Room

2 persons

205 sq. feet

1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed

Shower

Air conditioning

room details

Queen Room

2 persons

205 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Air conditioning

room details

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

Original North Australian Motel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.1/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free parking
No pets allowed
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Housekeeping
Laundry

Room features

Air conditioning
Soundproofed rooms
Sitting area
Patio

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV

Original North Australian Motel Location

55 Herbert Street, Bowen, Australia

Map view

55 Herbert Street, Bowen, Australia

City landmarks

Landmark

Bowen Corps

2100 ft

Landmark

Bowen Seventh-Day Adventist Church

2100 ft

Landmark

St Mary's Catholic Church

2600 ft

Landmark

Mullers Lagoon Park

5000 ft

Landmark

Centrepoint Plaza

1.0 mi

Landmark

Mother Beddock Rock

1.7 mi

Landmark

Flagstaff Hill

1.3 mi

Beach

Horseshoe Bay

2.4 mi

Landmark

Flagstaff Hill Lookout

1.6 mi

Landmark

Cape Edgecumbe Walking Trail

1.7 mi

Landmark

Cape Upstart National Park

1.7 mi

Landmark

Horseshoe Bay Rotary Lookout

2.2 mi

Landmark

Bowen Baptist

1.8 mi

Landmark

Lighthouse

1.9 mi

Beach

King's Beach

1.9 mi

Landmark

Mother Beddock Lookout

2.0 mi

Golf Course

Bowen Golf Club

2.0 mi

Landmark

The Big Mango

2.6 mi

Landmark

Queens Beach

2.6 mi

Landmark

Rotary Lookout

2.5 mi

Landmark

Horseshoe Bay Beach

2.5 mi

Nearby

Bowen Harbour Board Building

1200 ft

Sinclair Place

1600 ft

Bowen Jetty

1900 ft

Restaurants

Jochheims Pies

1000 ft

49 George St

Explore Bowen

Bowen Jetty

7 minutes' walk

Bowen Jetty offers scenic views and is perfect for fishing or leisurely strolls along the water.

Mullers Lagoon Park

18 minutes' walk

A peaceful haven with walking paths, ducks, and picnic spots, ideal for relaxation and family time.

Centrepoint Plaza

20 minutes' walk

A shopping and dining hub featuring various stores and cafes, a great place to experience local culture.

Flagstaff Hill

25 minutes' walk

A historic site with panoramic views and rich local history, great for photography and sightseeing.

Kayaking at Horseshoe Bay

10 minutes' drive

Rent a kayak for a thrilling time at Horseshoe Bay, offering stunning views and vibrant marine life.

Yoga at the Beach

10 minutes' drive

Join beachfront yoga classes to unwind and rejuvenate while listening to the soothing sound of waves.

Cape Edgecumbe Walking Trail

15 minutes' drive

A scenic walking trail with beautiful coastal views, suitable for all fitness levels and perfect for a morning hike.

Jochheims Pies

4 minutes' walk

A local favorite known for its freshly baked pies that offer savory and sweet options, perfect for a quick bite.

The Pizza Place

5 minutes' drive

Casual dining with gourmet pizzas, fresh ingredients, and a vibrant atmosphere great for families and friends.

The Grand View Hotel

10 minutes' drive

An iconic hotel offering a relaxed dining experience with a selection of Australian cuisine and stunning views.

Bowen Fisherman's Market

10 minutes' drive

A lively market showcasing fresh seafood and local produce, great for all ages and family outings.

The Bowling Club

5 minutes' drive

A friendly venue with regular live music and events, perfect for a casual night out with friends or family.

Getting around

City Centre

Bowen3 min · 700 ft

Airports

Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP)121 min · 50.0 mi

Hayman Island, QLD (HIS)130 min · 53.5 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 14:00-18:00

Check-out

from 06:00-10:00

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Children & extra beds

There are no extra beds provided in a room. There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Original North Australian Motel from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 135 verified reviews

7.9/10

Very good

84%

Recommend

Cleanliness

8.7/10

Comfort

8.7/10

Facilities

8.1/10

Free Wi-Fi

8.8/10

Location

8.9/10

Paid Wi-Fi

7.6/10

Staff

8.9/10

Value for money

8.4/10

Pros

Clean rooms

Comfortable bedding

Friendly staff

On-site parking

Good water pressure

Cons

Thin walls

Slow internet

Tight carpark

No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.

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Questions of the users

About Original North Australian

Is it acceptable to smoke outside on the patio areas?

10 November 2024

Smoking is permitted outside on the patio, where ashtrays are provided. This is to prevent theft of the ashtrays from the tables.

How can I get a copy of my invoice from my recent stay?

22 January 2025

An invoice can be resent upon request. Be sure to check your junk or spam folder if it does not appear in your inbox.

Are there pet-friendly accommodations available?

15 March 2025

Unfortunately, the accommodation does not allow pets. Only non-pet-friendly rooms are available for booking.

What dining options are available at the hotel?

5 February 2025

The hotel features a bar and grill serving a range of meals, including pub classics, wood-fired pizzas, and hearty breakfasts daily.

Can I order takeaway meals from the bar and grill?

12 April 2025

Yes, a takeaway service is available, allowing guests to enjoy freshly prepared meals on the go or wherever they prefer.

Is there live music or entertainment at the hotel?

18 May 2025

Yes, the hotel regularly hosts live music events featuring local artists, providing a vibrant atmosphere for guests.

What types of meals can I expect at the bar and grill?

30 June 2024

The menu includes a variety of options such as chicken schnitzels, fish and chips, and delicious burgers, catering to diverse tastes.

Is there a specific schedule for local events in Bowen?

25 August 2024

The hotel is well-situated to access local events, and staff can provide information on activities like the Bowen Show or Rodeo.

Are there modern amenities included in the rooms?

11 September 2024

Rooms come equipped with flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, modern air conditioning, and outside seating to enhance your stay.

What makes this hotel unique for visitors?

20 October 2024

This historic hotel combines rich local heritage with modern comforts, making it a favorite for both locals and travelers looking for an authentic experience.