Travel guide Shoalwater

There are certain places that make you let out a sigh of relief as soon as you see them, knowing that all your holiday boxes have been ticked.  Well, the Beach House at Shoalwater Bay is definitely one of those.

With its absolute waterfront location and stunning 180 degree view of the bay and its islands, this house is the answer to the dreams of every stressed, busy and wrung-out holiday seeker.  You could be forgiven for thinking that you are miles from anywhere, but the delights of Perth are only 40 minutes away, and the area abounds in things to do and see.

The House was originally a “renovator’s delight” that the inspired and talented owners have turned into a retreat from the everyday.  With such a magnificent location it is the ideal place for a summer holiday that will provide memories to get you through the rest of the year, but is also a great choice for a winter’s getaway, with its warming fire and panoramic views.

The Beach House has three bedrooms – two with queen beds and the third with three singles, and sleeps up to seven people.  There is also a portacot and high chair and all linen is supplied, which always makes a holiday easier when you don’t have to think about carting sheets and towels along as well!

The Entertainment Room makes the most of the fabulous views and the balcony beckons for a sunset drink.  For those nights when the seabreeze fails you, the room is air-conditioned and has a kitchenette and bar fridge perfect for whipping up cocktails and snacks.  There is also a fabulous spa bath downstairs – ideal for a little romantic lounging!

All comforts have been considered, with the air-conditioning, gas log fire, DVD/CD/VCR all tempting you to stay indoors and relax.  However, with so many of nature’s delights on your doorstep, you may not have time to stay in and enjoy the comforts of the house.

Wander across to the beach for picnics and watch the sunset over Seal Island and Shag Rock (for the active, why not kayak across to the islands through the crystal clear waters?), walk to Penguin Island at low tide or snorkel in the world-famous Shoalwater Islands Marine Park.  If you can bear to tear yourself away from the water, the Palm Beach foreshore offers many cafes, restaurants and wine bars.

The Rockingham coast is awash with activities that are guaranteed to keep you and the family happy. Marapana Wildlife World offers hands on encounters with koalas, wombats, snakes and dingoes.  Dive enthusiasts will love spending time exploring Rockingham’s famous wrecks and snorkelling with the sea lions is not to be missed.

There are local wineries, a fabulous golf course, windsurfing and kite-surfing with conditions to suit beginners and experts and the chance to have a close encounter with the local bottlenose dolphins – more than 100 inhabit the sparkling waters of the Rockingham coast.

There is the convenience of a shopping centre around the corner, and the towns of Mandurah and Fremantle are both less than 30 minutes drive away.

If you are looking for a holiday that offers something for all members of your family (even Fido is welcome and the courtyard is definitely pet-friendly!) then look no further than this magical beach house that will have you wishing your stay could go on forever.