Found this post (kiteforum.com/viewtopic.php?t=2354316) from 2009, that mentioned the Lancelin lodge - which looks like the right vibe. Wondering if there's any more intel on this place and others. Doesn't have to be a hostel either, just somewhere that's close to a good wing launch and ideally walking distance to pubs / food.
Anticipating up to 600 AUD / night for a nice resort if that's the best option.
I just ended up booking a room at the YHA in Fremantle prison. It's a fun vibe, I think the overlap between people that hydrofoil vs. stay at hostels is quite small, but still great, well located. Was close to the Fremantle Market and had the best Banh Mi in my entire stay in Australia (a mixed pork belly / grilled pork).
There's paid parking for 13 / day just below the prison where I'm keeping my camper van on some flat ground with what I feel is a semblance of watchful visibility from thieves. Walking distance to lots of cute restaurants and shops. Had a meal and drink at Tonic and Ginger where the service was top notch. I feel I've had better asian fusion in SF, but that's a tough act to follow and I don't have to deal with tips and other drip pricing schemes here so $92 for 4 plates, a glass of wine, and a cocktail felt like a steal at $60 USD.
And of course, went out to Dutch Inn beach. Pretty sweet setup - got some reef protection and a jetty to protect you from open ocean swell while getting up and out into the deeps. Great wind swell. I missed a grassy parking lot about 200 feet up the road where I could have packed my gear up without leaving it covered in sand :|
