The Boat House is a relaxed, light-filled family beach house in the heart of Barwon Heads — a real home made for long beach days, slow mornings and easy evenings on the deck.
Tucked away in a quiet court, we're an easy five-minute walk from the village, with its cafés, restaurants and shops, and close to the beach. For families, the skate park and Pirate Park playground are at the end of the street — close enough for older kids to come and go independently.
The space
At the heart of the house is a bright, open-plan kitchen, living and dining area where everyone can come together. The kitchen is well equipped for people who genuinely enjoy cooking, with plenty of space to settle in for a longer stay.
On warm days, the house opens onto a large sunny deck with a BBQ, outdoor dining and comfortable lounge area. Come home sandy from the beach, rinse off under the outdoor shower and settle in for the evening.
One of our favourite spots is the deep claw-foot bath outside, with hot and cold water — particularly lovely at the end of a beach day or for a soak under the evening sky.
The house has three bedrooms:
Main bedroom with queen bed and ensuite
Second bedroom with queen bed
Third bedroom with two single beds
There's also a separate bungalow that has become the kids' domain, with its own TV, lots of beanbags and a bed that can be used as a single or opened out to a queen. It's a great place for kids and teenagers to disappear to while the adults enjoy the main house.
The family bathroom has a bath and shower, with a separate toilet.
A proper family beach house
The Boat House is our home, rather than a purpose-built holiday rental, and we think that's part of what makes staying here special.
There are books to curl up with, toys for younger kids and a big old school DVD collection for movie nights, as well as Wi-Fi and streaming services. There's a portacot for little ones and a fully equipped laundry with washer and dryer.
You'll also find the practical things that make a family holiday easier — a second fridge/freezer, outdoor clothesline, plenty of kitchen equipment and room for everyone to spread out.
It's a house where you can arrive, unpack and actually live for a while.
Location
We're in a friendly, peaceful pocket of Barwon Heads, while still being able to leave the car behind.
The village is around a five-minute walk away for coffee, breakfast, shopping or dinner, with the beach also within easy reach. The skate park and Pirate Park playground are at the end of our street.
Guest access
You'll have the entire house, bungalow and outdoor spaces to yourselves. Nothing is shared.
We won't be on site during your stay, but we'll be easily contactable if you need anything.
Good to know
The Boat House is our principal residence, so availability is limited to times when we're away.
There is a minimum seven-night stay during peak periods and three nights at other times. If there's a period you're interested in that isn't showing as available, feel free to ask — sometimes we can make it work.