On 23 January 2026, Geelong’s waterfront will welcome its most significant new landmark in decades: the long-anticipated Crowne Plaza Geelong.
A premium hotel with contemporary design, the $120 million development represents a strong commitment to the city’s evolution as a premier tourism, events, and lifestyle destination.
Hotel general manager John Dickson is a leader with more than 20 years’ experience managing major hotels across Australia and New Zealand. Already a passionate member of the Geelong community, John is proud to have the opportunity to lead this landmark project.
“It’s an honour to be tasked with building a talented team of locals that can provide guests with the premium experience that Crowne Plaza is famous for around the world,” John says.
“This is a marquee investment in Geelong, and I want to ensure we get it right – bringing in the best people to provide the best service to locals and visitors.”
His enthusiasm reflects a sentiment shared across the city: Crowne Plaza Geelong isn’t just another hotel; it is a statement. A long-awaited moment. A new chapter in the region’s story.
Situated at the waterfront, Crowne Plaza Geelong will offer 200 guest rooms and suites, with half boasting uninterrupted water views and the remainder framing the vibrant city skyline. Several accessible rooms ensure the hotel is welcoming for all travellers.
Designed for both business and leisure, the hotel includes:
Flexible meeting and event spaces, all overlooking the bay
A ground-level cafe, ideal for casual dining and a fresh grab-and-go offering
A Level 1 trattoria and bar with Italian dining inspired by the coastal charm of
Italy and the flavours of Geelong and the Bellarine
A Level 10 Skybar – a first-of-its-kind attraction in Geelong and regional Victoria
A gym and indoor heated swimming pool
Take in Geelong’s most breathtaking bay views from Skybar, the only venue at this height in Geelong located directly on the waterfront. This modern, stylish space blends premium service with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, making it perfect for any occasion. Sip crafted cocktails, enjoy local wines, beers, and spirits, or share elevated plates showcasing the region’s finest produce.
The ground-floor cafe and Level 1 restaurant and bar will complement the energy of the waterfront, providing new spaces for locals to gather, dine, and experience the best of what Geelong has to offer.
With expansive floor to ceiling windows capturing stunning bay views, creating an unforgettable backdrop for every occasion. From corporate meetings and conferences to elegant dinners, milestone celebrations, and waterfront weddings, each space is designed to elevate events and leave a lasting impression.
Crowne Plaza Geelong is fully funded by leading infrastructure developer Plenary Group and is being operated by IHG Hotels & Resorts under the Crowne Plaza brand. It forms part of more than $250 million being invested by Plenary in Geelong’s waterfront precinct, including associated retail, commercial, and mixed-use spaces.
With direct connection to Crowne Plaza Geelong, Plenary is also delivering the transformative Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, opening 1 July 2026. This is one of the most significant civic investments in regional Australia and is set to elevate Geelong’s reputation as a world-class conference and event destination.
Plenary chief executive Paul Crowe says the investment reflects Geelong’s emerging prominence.
“Plenary’s investment backs the future of Geelong as the beating heart of some of the greatest tourism attractions in Australia, including world-class wine, produce, tourism attractions and major events coming out of Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula, the Surf Coast, and the Great Ocean Road,” he says.
With the hotel opening on 23 January 2026, anticipation is already building. Locals, businesses, tourism operators, and visitors alike are watching closely as the project nears completion.
To celebrate the launch, bookings are now open, accompanied by an opening offer: be the first to experience Crowne Plaza Geelong with a relaxing stay including buffet breakfast for two and a $50 food and beverage credit. The offer is available for bookings made before 23 April 2026 for stays up until 30 December 2026, subject to availability.
