Swimmers Rest at Shoal Bay-restored retro beach house

A classic retro style holiday house harking back to childhood holidays by the beach but with modern comfortable amenities and character! The house has multiple living zones, high ceilings, lots of light and has been thoughtfully decorated throughout. The emphasis at Swimmers Rest is to slow down and enjoy!


Swimmers Rest is ideally located between the Shoal Bay waterfront and Fingal Bay Beach (2 min drive (18 min walk) in either direction), restaurants, cafes and shops. This also means you'll be within walking distance to the Shoal Bay Country Club (or a courtesy bus ride away). Additionally, we're only 10 min stroll from Box Beach, a beautiful beach located in the National Park. It's also about 200 m from the cycle/walking path that winds its way through the bush to Fingal Bay which is the best swimming beach in the area, has a large playground, park, fenced dog exercising area and a cafe. Take your pick of eating and swimming spots!


You’ll feel instantly relaxed when you walk through the front door. Our focus is on creating an environment which invites you to sit back with a good book, play board games, listen to music or have a decent chat with friends and family. We like a good movie as much as the next person so there's also a smart TV (although we did debate the need for one).


We have spent the last year restoring and fitting out Swimmers Rest. Sustainability is important to us so we've spent time sourcing furnishings and decor from second-hand and vintage sources, and upcycling/recycling as much as we can. The emphasis here is slowing down in comfort. If you're after a gleaming and slick fit-out this is probably not the place for you!


There are two living spaces so adults can have quiet time away from kids. We've also built a fantastic interconnected deck in out little backyard to accommodate outdoor dining and more lounging around space around the frangipani tree. There's also a generously sized front veranda with a hammock, and Balinese/Indian furniture and locally made Adirondack chairs. Both front and back outdoor spaces glow at night with string lighting.


We have a huge main bedroom which includes a sitting area and desk (if you really have to work away from home). There’s another queen bedroom and a third bedroom with two long single beds. All bedrooms have generously sized built in wardrobes.


There's a new reverse cycle A/C system and ceiling fans throughout the house, including bedrooms. There’s usually a lovely sea breeze that cools the place down (our recommended form of cooling).


There's a small park down the road, afront lawn that can accommodate a game of Finska. We have a beach shelter, beach chairs and two SUPs in the garage which you're welcome to use.


We can accommodate small dogs at the property but please message us first before booking so that we can ensure it is suitable for your pooch. Although we all love our best friend, for the sake of future guests, we ask that dogs do not go on the lounges or beds, and of course, ask you to clean up after your dog. Please be mindful to avoid noise, dirty paws and excess hair. A small extra fee will be applied for cleaning.


We look forward to hosting you!