On a stretch of coastline known for its soft white sands, emerald waters and seasonal whale watching, a new chapter has begun for one of Mollymook’s most recognisable addresses.
Just moments from Mollymook Beach, Dolphins Motel has reopened following a comprehensive redesign that transforms the classic Australian roadside motel into a thoughtfully reimagined boutique stay, inspired by the optimism and simplicity of mid-century coastal living.
Three-and-a-half hours from Sydney and just over two hours from Canberra, Mollymook is a bustling holiday hotspot through summer and a charming coastal escape for the remainder of the year. Long celebrated for its beaches, laid-back pace and old-school charm, it provided the perfect setting for a south coast family.
With help from Architectural Design firm Lukin Design, interior design by Studio Aquilo, and branding agency Swell Design Group, the family reimagined the site from the ground up. The result is a highly curated retreat that serves up Palm Springs energy with a distinctly Australian accent.
Part Australiana, part 1950s Californian, Dolphins Motel embraces the enduring appeal of the classic beach motel while offering a modern interpretation of the coastal Australian getaway.
“There’s something incredibly special about Mollymook and this part of the South Coast,” said General Manager Paul Goodenough, formerly of Bannisters Mollymook.
“People come here for the beaches, the coastline, the slower pace and the feeling that you’ve truly escaped. Dolphins Motel has been designed to reflect that. It’s relaxed and unpretentious, but every detail has been carefully considered.”
Inside, the design language is unmistakably mid-century. Portugese cork flooring, Fibonacci terrazzo surfaces, Brodware tapware, locally crafted cabinetry and handcrafted bedheads by Create Estate sit alongside furnishings from Jardan, Tait, Vincent Sheppard and Vitra. Bespoke bedside tables are topped with Geneva retro alarm clocks, while artwork by Studio Elwood, Leigh Vardenega, Studio of the Sun and PTSR Studio brings colour, character and a distinctly coastal sensibility to the rooms.
The 10 Retro King Studios blend modern conveniences with old-school beach holiday charm. Each features a private terrace, kitchenette fitted with Sam Gordon crockery and Smeg appliances, Dyson hair dryers, Steamery clothes steamers, St. Ali coffee, T2 tea and Leif bathroom amenities. Guests are welcomed with curated hampers featuring South Coast producers including Broulee Brewhouse, South Coast Blend Nuts and Woodstock Chocolates Co., which has created custom dolphin-shaped chocolates exclusively for the motel.
Just beyond the rooms, a breezy pool framed by landscaping and soft mid-century curves invites long afternoons in the sun. Beneath the waterline, the Dolphins insignia is embossed into the pool floor, while complimentary cruiser bikes, soft-top surfboards, garden table tennis and two Porsche EV chargers encourage guests to make the most of Mollymook’s coastal lifestyle.
The property’s towering four-metre illuminated motel sign serves as a beacon from the street, channelling the neon spirit of Palm Springs and the golden age of roadside motels while announcing a new chapter for this Mollymook icon.
For those staying longer, the three-bedroom apartment channels the easy optimism of a 1950s Californian beach house. A dramatic double-sided fireplace from Visionline anchors the living space, while a custom dining table by Studio Aquilo, Jardan seating and a Rachel Donath Vivi coffee table create a home designed for gathering. Outside, a private entertaining deck with barbecue sets the scene for long afternoons that drift into evening.
Complementing the accommodation offering is Dolly’s Café, a licensed neighbourhood café led by local hospitality duo Riley Salisbury and Sam Roberts. Open daily, the café has quickly become a local gathering place, serving morning coffees, matchas and smoothies alongside ricotta hotcakes, breakfast buns, rainbow trout salad and a seasonal plate shaped by the region’s produce. Local wines and craft beers round out the offering, with guests able to order directly to their room or poolside.
“A large part of Mollymook’s appeal is that it still feels like an authentic beach town,” added Goodenough.
“There’s a familiarity to a great beach motel that Australians instantly understand. We’ve taken that feeling and reimagined it for today — combining old-school holiday charm with thoughtful design, local craftsmanship and the kind of comforts modern travellers expect. The result is somewhere that feels relaxed, welcoming and unmistakably of this place.”
Now open, Dolphins Motel offers a fresh take on coastal accommodation in one of Australia’s most beloved beach destinations.
Start from $239 mid-week to $359 (Fri/Sat) for a Retro King
Apartment from $478 mid-week to $718 (Fri/Sat) for the 3-bedroom Apartment
Room Rates – Summer
Start from $330 mid-week to $519 (Fri/Sat) for a Retro King
Apartment from $660 mid-week to $1038 (Fri/Sat) for the 3-bedroom Apartment
