This was published 10 years ago
Value on the Beachside, Killcare Beach: Weekend Away
Value on the Beachside: Killcare Beach.
An old-style stay with million-dollar views at Killcare Beach impresses Lynne Whiley.
THE SETTING
Killcare Beach, along with nearby Hardys Bay and the Bouddi National Park, is about a 90-minute drive north of Sydney on the NSW central coast and attracts visitors in summer and winter alike.
Killcare Beach bedroom.
Value on the Beachside, in Grandview Street, Killcare, one of the best streets for those who want ocean views, year-round northerly morning light and a quick walk to the beach, is just that, an affordable stay. The property is old Killcare: a single-storey, self-contained fibro and wood beach shack sitting among mature trees and a well-tended garden, with a large verandah that overlooks roof lines below to offer expansive beach and sea views.
For a family of four or two couples, it makes a handy beach base without the hefty price tag the area's architect-designed properties often command.
THE SPACE
A dozen stairs set between trees and shrubs lead from the street to a path adjoining the verandah on the property's sea side.
Walk through the adjoining glass doors and into the living area. Winter visitors will immediately appreciate the fireplace and basket of chopped wood at the ready. Summer guests will note the verandah's adjustable shade awning, outdoor table and chairs, and plenty of rail-hanging space for beach towels.
The property has a large, combined lounge, dining space and kitchen, two bedrooms and one bathroom. The larger bedroom has a queen-size bed, built-in wardrobe and glass doors to the verandah. The second bedroom has two single beds, a cupboard of extra blankets and a separate rack for hanging clothing.
Two good-sized sofas and a large coffee table dominate the lounge area, along with a digital TV, DVD player and a cupboard of books, mostly fiction.
THE KIT
As well as sufficient crockery, cutlery and cooking utensils, the kitchen has those additional items weekend travellers appreciate: a coffee plunger, champagne flutes and bottle stopper, serving platters, sharp knives, a full-sized fridge and plenty of natural light.
It is not the flashest kitchen with the latest benchtops and cupboard handles, but it is fully functional. On the verandah is a small barbecue. Tucked below the verandah is a laundry with a washing machine, an additional shower and a toilet.
FOOD
The stay is self-contained, but there is a small selection of local dining options. The Point Cafe, above the Killcare Surf Life Saving Club, is within staggering distance (see pointcafe.com.au). Hardys Bay's cafes, deli and general store are also within walking distance.
COMFORT FACTOR
The lounges are deep and agreeable, the beds are firm and light floods the property in the morning, but both bedrooms have blinds or curtains to keep out the sun. All windows open, so there is excellent air flow in summer, supplemented by fans if the temperature rises. For winter, there are electric heaters to supplement the open fireplace.
Below the verandah, the property is grassed and has areas of shade, perfect for children to play on or for adults who picnic.
WORTH STEPPING OUT FOR
The Bouddi National Park's walking trails include Maitland Bay, Pretty Beach and nearby Wagstaffe. For maps, see environment.nsw.gov.au.
Hardys Bay Yacht Charters has skippered charter packages and overnight berths (hardysbayyachtcharters.com.au), while Central Coast Boat Hire at Killcare Marina has a fleet of varying sizes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards (centralcoastboathire.com.au).
THE VERDICT
A small property in a great location, with million-dollar views, just a quick walk from the beach.
HOW TO GET THERE
Take the F3/M1 north from Sydney, turn off at Gosford and follow Brisbane Water Drive and Blackwall Road until the beach and bay signs include Killcare.
ESSENTIALS
Value on the Beachside is from $270 for a weekend package; $770 to $1260 a week, depending on the season. Phone Raine & Horne, Killcare Beach, 02 4360 1107 or see rh.com.au/killcare.
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