Oaks Hotels: What to Expect and Who They Best Suit

IF YOU’VE travelled around Australia — or even just browsed accommodation options online — chances are you’ve come across Oaks Hotels & Resorts. They’re everywhere… and yet many travellers aren’t quite sure what Oaks actually is.

Are they hotels? Apartments? Good for longer stays? Quiet enough to relax, but central enough to explore?

I’ve stayed with Oaks more than once (most recently in Port Douglas – pictured), and I’ll be reviewing individual properties in detail. But first, it helps to understand the Oaks Hotels & Resorts brand as a whole — who they’re for, what they do well, and whether they’re likely to suit your style of travel.

Let’s start at the beginning.

*This article contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It’s how we continue to create helpful stories and guides for you.

What is Oaks Hotels & Resorts?

Oaks Hotels & Resorts is an Australian-born accommodation brand that sits comfortably between traditional hotels and serviced apartments.

Their sweet spot?
Spacious, self-contained accommodation in great locations, designed for people who want flexibility, comfort and a sense of “settling in” — even if it’s only for a few nights.

Today, Oaks Hotels & Resorts operates across Australia and international destinations in New Zealand, Asia, and the Middle East.

Who Are Oaks Hotels Best Suited To?

Oaks Hotels & Resorts doesn’t try to be everything to everyone — and that’s part of the appeal.

They’re particularly well suited to:

• Couples who like space and independence

• Solo travellers who don’t want to feel boxed into a standard hotel room

• Longer-stay guests (think four nights to several weeks)

• Mature travellers who value comfort over trendiness

• Business travellers who want kitchen and laundry facilities

• Families needing room to spread out

If you like:

• A separate living area

• A proper kitchen (or kitchenette)

• A balcony or outdoor space

• The option to eat in or dine out

… Oaks will likely feel like a good fit.

Are Oaks Hotels Apartments or Hotels?

This is one of the most common questions — and the answer is: a bit of both.

Most Oaks properties offer:

• Studio rooms

• One-bedroom apartments

• Two-bedroom (and sometimes three-bedroom) apartments

That means:

• Separate bedroom(s)

• Kitchen or kitchenette

• Living and dining area

• Laundry facilities (either in-room or shared)

You get the privacy and space of an apartment, with the services of a hotel — reception, housekeeping, facilities and on-site support.

Where Are Oaks Hotels Located?

Oaks Hotels & Resorts places a strong emphasis on location, which is one of its key selling points.

You’ll typically find Oaks properties:

• In CBDs and city centres

• Near waterfronts and beaches

• Close to public transport

• Within walking distance of cafés, restaurants and attractions

In Australia, Oaks has a strong presence in:

• Queensland

• New South Wales

• Victoria

• South Australia

• Western Australia

• The Northern Territory

From capital cities to resort towns like Port Douglas, Oaks Hotels & Resorts tends to place you where you can park the car and walk — always a bonus.

Where Else in the World Can You Find Oaks Hotels & Resorts?

While Oaks Hotels & Resorts has its roots firmly in Australia, the brand has expanded well beyond our shores.

Today, Oaks operates in:

• Australia (its strongest presence)

• New Zealand

• Asia — including destinations such as Thailand and China

• The Middle East — in select cities

Despite its wide reach, Oaks Hotels & Resorts remains very much an Australasian-focused brand, with most properties designed around the same core idea: spacious, apartment-style accommodation in practical, well-located settings.

For Australian travellers, that consistency can be reassuring — whether you’re booking interstate or further afield.

What Amenities Do Oaks Hotels Usually Offer?

Amenities vary by property, but there’s a fairly consistent baseline across the brand.

Common features include:

• Swimming pools

• Gyms or fitness rooms

• Secure parking

• Wi-Fi

• Air conditioning

• Balconies (many with views)

Many properties also offer:

• On-site restaurants or cafés

• Barbecue areas

• Tour booking assistance

• Business facilities

Because Oaks Hotels & Resorts properties differ, I always recommend checking the individual listing — especially if a pool, lift access, or parking is essential for you.

Do Oaks Hotels Have Spas?

Some do — but not all.

Several Oaks Hotels & Resorts, particularly in leisure destinations, offer:

• Day spas

• Massage services

• Wellness facilities

Others are located within walking distance of independent spas and wellness centres.

In other words, Oaks Hotels & Resorts doesn’t position itself as a “spa-first” brand — but if relaxation is on your agenda, many locations make it very easy to build that into your stay.

Are Oaks Hotels Pet Friendly?

This is another frequent question — and the answer is sometimes.

• Some Oaks Hotels & Resorts properties are pet-friendly

• Others are not, depending on local regulations and building rules

Because policies can vary by location (and even by room type), it’s essential to:

• Check the individual property listing

• Confirm directly before booking

If you’re travelling with a small dog, it’s worth doing a little extra homework — but it can be possible.

How Does Oaks Compare on Value?

Oaks Hotels & Resorts tends to sit in a mid-range to upper mid-range price bracket, offering:

• More space than a standard hotel room

• Better value for longer stays

• Strong location benefits

When you factor in:

• Kitchen facilities

• Laundry access

• Room to relax

… many guests find Oaks offers excellent value, especially for stays of four nights or more.

Is Oaks Right for You?

Oaks Hotels & Resorts is a solid choice if you:

• Like comfort and space

• Prefer flexibility over formality

• Enjoy feeling a little bit “at home” when you travel

• Want a reliable brand without unnecessary fuss

They may not be for you if:

• You want full luxury service and daily pampering

• You prefer boutique hotels with lots of personality

• You’re after a party atmosphere

Coming Up: My Oaks Hotel Reviews

I’ll be sharing individual reviews of Oaks properties I’ve personally stayed in, starting with Oaks Port Douglas, followed by my next stay at Hervey Bay.

Each review will cover:

• The location

• The room

• What I loved (and what could be better)

• Who I think the property is best suited to

If you enjoy travelling at a comfortable pace — with good coffee nearby and a bit of breathing space — you’ll want to keep an eye on this series.

Because where you stay really does shape how you travel.

Want the occasional travel note in your inbox?

If you enjoy this style of travel, the Jocelyn Magazine newsletter is where I occasionally share what Oaks Hotels & Resorts offers that is worth a closer look.

You can subscribe to the Jocelyn Magazine newsletter here for seasonal travel notes, reviews and offers.

*This article contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.