Sandstone Cottage, Great Mackerel Beach

Reviews

• Reviewer: Hazelle

  Comments: “Wow” is probably the best word I can think to describe this incredible place. The photos just don’t do it justice. Finished with impeccable taste, this place is definitely a gem. Located on the best part of Mackeral beach, and surrounded by wildlife - including a resident wallaby who comes so close you can feed him by hand! The water as crystal clear as Thailand and just a two seconds away, down a very well paved and not too steep path. The views from the house and tree house are beyond breathtaking and the owner is super nice and attentive. Upon arrival he sent a message to see if we got in OK and during the booking phase he responded immediately to our questions. The BBQ is state of the ark (very important!) and the place is totally set up for entertaining with a great coffee machine, two fridges, plenty of cutlery, glasses, plates etc ... . Everything has been thought of, from hats and repellant to hooks to hang out your wet beach towels. We will definitely be back. Everyone who stopped by to visit us while we were there will be booking too, so I just hope we can get in! Thank you Richard. You have created a little slice of heaven.

• Reviewer: Julian

  Comments: If you are seeking a charmingly rustic, secluded getaway to a cottage located twenty metres from a stunning protected beach; look no further. Getting to the house is a boating adventure directly from Palm Beach (either by the ferry, the friendly local boat house, or the water taxi). Not being able to drive to the house is a nice removal from the mundane, however make sure you pack accordingly. The main sandstone cottage is designed to effortlessly entertain large or small groups of people. The generous outdoor setting is nicely accompanied by extra deck chairs and umbrellas. Richard and Claudia have very tastefully arranged the homely living interiors and bedrooms. The tree-house (bedroom and bathroom), removed from the main cottage, is fantastic and you are treated to a stunning elevated view to the East. Watching sunrise over the ocean from the comfort of bed is pretty special. The quiet location means sleeping with the doors open to the sound of gentle waves is a must, and the house is well stocked with mosquito coils to make the pests don't interrupt. The recently renovated kitchen contains everything needed for cooking, and is complemented by the large BBQ outside. There are walking trails nearby which can take you to the West Head lookout, Aboriginal Archaeological sites, and tiny beaches dotted around the headland. All-in-all, a very pleasant stay, and we look forward to any opportunity to return.

• Reviewer: Luka

  Comments: Hands down one of the nicest places i've ever stayed in. Beautifully perched up on the hill it gives an amazing view out to pittwater & across to palm beach. The interior is chic & understated with a perfect combination of beach retreat & stylish home. The house is nestled in the bush with frangipani trees everywhere & plenty of ample space to relax or entertain guests. I'll be back for sure!

• Reviewer: Grace

  Comments: We had a great stay at Richard's House. The view was gorgeous and the place is exactly as shown on picture. In the end we extended our stay by 1 extra night.

• Reviewer: Gemma

  Comments: I recently stayed at Beach House, Great Mackeral with a few friends for a nice chilled out long weekend. The house exceeded all expectations. In an amazing location with a stunning view its was so nice to chill out and enjoy the peace and quiet in such a perfect setting. Clean, tidy and very homely, the house comes with everything you need (and more). Lots of outdoor space to have a bbq and eat with friends which was great. The beds were really comfortable and the tree house is very cool! To open up the doors each morning from there and see the ocean and boats was just lovely. I loved the fact that you had to get a little ferry over and use a wheelbarrow to get your shopping to the house - it all added to a little adventure away for a few days! Would highly recommend a holiday here! I cant wait to go back!

• Reviewer: Zen

  Comments: Thank you, Richard, for a wonderful house and experience on a lovely beach. The house is right on the beach. It is charming and thoughtfully decorated. The lizards/goannas can be a bit alarming but it's all part of the experience. The kitchen and linen cupboards are well supplied. And the fishing is excellent :)

• Reviewer: Sarah

  Comments: We spent 3 gorgeous nights at Great Mackeral Beach House. The house was equipped with everything we needed and the quality furnishings made for comfortable relaxing time with family and friends. Great for 2 young families, perfect beach for little ones and older folks alike with plenty to do if you ever tire of just soaking up the beautiful view. Owner was very easy to deal with - would definitely recommend this property. The best part was its proximity to Sydney, but the feeling of being worlds away.

• Reviewer: Jessie

  Comments: We headed to Great Mackeral for a spontaneous weekend away. The beach house is idyllic - the location is spectacular, and the house is perfect. Beachy, comfortable and has everything you need! We swam, lazed and read on the deck lounges, played Jenga, Uno & Scrabble, and cooked up an absolute feast in the well equipped kitchen. Aside from all that the house has to offer, we also explored a little further afield with trail runs and bush walks in the surrounding areas. We also loved the remote feel of the location - we basically had the beach to ourselves, but it took us just under an hour to get there from Sydney, including the very quick ferry ride. We have all returned to the city refreshed, and vowing to get back here as soon as we can. Richard and Claudia were very responsive, and provided clear instructions on all logistics involved. Thank you!

• Reviewer: Rachel

  Comments: This is the sort of place one wants to remain secret--but the joy of discovering it is too great not to share the surprise! Wonderful tranquil surrounds coupled with loving attention to simple warm design that welcomes. Perfect.

• Reviewer: Wayne & Kate

  Comments: Stunning! Relaxing, charming, private, secluded and stunning again. A sanctuary. We loved being there and so will you. Although don't go! We'd hate to think it will get booked out. We want to go back! Thanks for having us, Richard. You were a helpful and kind host and we hope to deal with you again. You have a wonderful place!

• Reviewer: Fiona

  Comments: Such a special place. Not only is Mackerel a special place but this home is in the perfect location on Mackerel beach. A great outlook, view and the beach 10metres away. We immediately relaxed once there and it's so quick to get to from Sydney (even though you feel far far away). The separate bedroom is particularly incredible. An easy house to entertain in and lots of outdoor space. Great communication too. Thankyou. We will be back.

• Reviewer: Rebecca

  Comments: Richard is quick and helpful when responding to my numerous questions. The place was even more beautiful than i had imagined and there was beyond the necessary supplied for us.

• Reviewer: Trav

  Comments: We were looking for a place to stay for my mums birthday weekend. Scrolling through AIRBNB and we found this place. All I can say is amazing. Great mackerel has everything you could want and more. The house and tree house is amazing. The kitchen is perfect and the view is unbelievable. Photos definitely don't do the house justice. Strongly recommend. The hosts are contactable and super pleasant. Easy to deal with and very accommodating. We will be aiming to stay again soon.

• Reviewer: Markus

  Comments: One of the most beautiful places I have been to. The house is lovely, in perfect location, quite and peaceful, very well maintained, just a flight of stairs down to the beach, stunning ocean view from the patio. The host Richard is very helpful. 100% recommendable.

• Reviewer: Danica

  Comments: We found our heaven at Richard and Claudia's place at Mackerel. It was an ideal home and location for our family and the holiday we wanted. Richard's communication was always prompt and helpful, and he and Claudia went out of their way to assist us with several aspects of our stay.

• Reviewer: Matthew

  Comments: What a magical place! From the moment we walked in, we knew this place had something special. The view especially in the early mornings was spectacular and we couldn't be happy with our stay. When you come, no need to bring a thing! The kitchen is amazingly equipped, linen, towels, games... It's all there. And the host was so so helpful and happy discuss any questions we had on the property or on the area. RECOMMEND!!

• Reviewer: Trav

  Comments: We've stayed here before and were so impressed with the place we had to stay again. Richard is easy to contact, communicate with and is so accomodating. The place is amazing. Perfect for a few nights away. The view is phenomenal to wake up to. A must if you're interested!

• Reviewer: Andrea

  Comments: Wonderful property that feels like a home away from home. Well stocked with everything you need to be fully relaxed, comfortable and self cater. Beautifully appointed and lots of space as well as privacy if needed. We stayed in the outside cabin - wonderful experience waking up each day to the sunrise and view - the room bathed in sun during the morning. Perfect beach location, amazing views and the sights and sounds of nature on your doorstep. Richard was very communicative, accommodating and helpful all the way through our stay. Will definitely stay again.

• Reviewer: Justin

  Comments: We felt perfectly welcome and warmly invited stepping off the boat and walking up to the beach house. Everything we needed was there, and even more! The beach house was exactly as described, and even more beautiful than the pictures. Everything worked, and the tree house was a great treat too. Thank you for a great long weekend and we look forward to visiting again!

• Reviewer: Frankie

  Comments: Richard was great! He provided a really useful fact sheet for the beach house, which made finding everything for the stay easy and stress free. The beach house itself was incredible. I've stayed at Mackerel Beach many times and I have to say, this place is definitely the most beautiful. It was wonderful having wifi, as the places I've rented in the past have not. I would definitely stay here again!

• Reviewer: Stephanie & Duane

  Comments: Richard's Mackeral Beach property is a gem! A perfect escape from the city for a weekend. Good for groups, with a well appointed kitchen. Richard was an excellent host keeping in touch regularly and taking great care to ensure we had a great relaxing time at Mackeral.

• Reviewer: Jennifer

  Comments: The most ideal location if you are looking for quiet and peaceful. We enjoyed with our 2 children aged 2 and 4 and my husbands parents. The house is beautiful and is equipped with everything you might need. Steps from the house take you straight onto Mackerel Beach....bliss.

• Reviewer: Lisa

  Comments: Richard's place and Mackerel Beach are fabulous. This house is perfect. Everything is as described, it is truly stunning and just perfect for a relaxing time. Richard is a great host and easy to contact when organising the trip. We first came to know of this place when friends stayed here last Easter and we were at another place, we are so happy to have found a chance to show my parents (from Canada) this amazing location. Loved the treehouse for my parents. Thanks for having us Richard. We WILL be back!!

• Reviewer: Nikki

  Comments: Richard's place is pure serenity. Private beach front this house is perfect for a relaxing get away and the kitchen is incredible. Everything you need! The beds are comfortable and the whole area is so serene. Perfect for a little getaway from Sydney! Can't wait to come back.

• Reviewer: John

  Comments: Fantastic spot with loads of character. Plenty of info from Richard to make sure we had a great stay- which we did. Thanks again.

• Reviewer: Myriam & Alex

  Comments: RIchard's house is a pure gem! There is no word to describe how amazing and amazingly located it is! Sleep with the sound of the waves, wake up to an amazing sunrise, go down a few steps and go for a swim, sit down at the front of the house and take in the beautiful scenery... The house itslef is very cute and cosy, the kitchen is very well equiped and the tree house is charming. Mackerel Beach is a wonderful place, and the best is it's only 1 hour from Sydney! Oh I wish I could be there every weekend! Richard is easy to communicate with and arranging, and everything was perfect :)

• Reviewer: Melinda

  Comments: The view from the Beach House is a stunner - unspoilt panoramic views across the pittwater - it's truely unique and one of our favourites. We had a wonderful family holiday our children loved the outdoor spaces and had loads of freedom within earshot of us. The house is well appointed and the kitchen has everything you need and more. Richard was a great host and easy to get in touch with. We stayed for 2 weeks and the weather overall was fantastic. We were thankful for this as the main house is small for two families (particularly when it's raining and you can't get outside). One small gripe was the main bathroom which is really in need of an update. The shower drain blocked a couple of times which we had to pump out. There were ants at night coming through the cracks in the wall. It was all pretty basic. The house is not cheap over the school holidays and at the rate we were paying we would have expected this to be in better condition. Overall we had a great stay. PS we thankfully didn't see the 1.5m goana roaming the property, just possums and wallabies!

• Reviewer: Emily

  Comments: Richards house at Mackeral Beach was amazing and Richard was a responsive and helpful guest. Despite the initial trouble locating the property in the dark and rain with three children in tow, we were thrilled to arrive and settle in to the small but very well appointed and beautifully decorated cottage. Absolutely everything you could need for a comfortable stay was at your fingertips, not to mention the beach, view, sunrises and an amazing garden, and our family of 5 had a very memorable and unique long weekend there. The only thing worth noting for families with young kids is to be aware that the 'tree house', whilst stunning, is probably not suitable for children under the age of 8-10 if sleeping alone. Despite this we would return in a heartbeat and recommend to all! Thank you Richard!

• Reviewer: Melanie

  Comments: We enjoyed a fantastic stay at Mackerel Beach with our friends and family. The house is small but beautifully appointed with everything you need. So very relaxing. Thank you Ruchard!

• Reviewer: Ed

  Comments: We were blown away by Richards place at Mackarel Beach. A short ferry ride from Palm Beach and you feel instantly on holidays and relaxed. The house is right on the beach and has a fantastic view. You'll spend most of your time admiring it. Do yourself a favour and stay

• Reviewer: Vanessa

  Comments: Spectacular views! Gorgeous beach front cottage that is stylish and comfortable and very well equipped with all you need to make your stay a delight. Our kids loved the freedom of exploring on their own and the surrounding bushwalks and beaches were stunning. Sleeping to the lull of the ocean was beautiful and the sun rises were incredible. You feel a million miles away yet only a 10 min ferry ride from Palm Beach. Such a great spot we cant wait to visit again. Richard was a great host - communicative and responsive.

• Reviewer: Callum

  Comments: This is a fantastic location and great house. Provides a true 'away from it all' experience while still being close to Sydney. We we're pleasantly surprised by the beach - the kids had a great time playing on the sand below, while parents could have a wine at the house and watch from above.

• Reviewer: Jonathon

  Comments: We spent an excellent long weekend at this lovely spot. Even with six adults and two small children the place felt spacious. The house had everything we needed and more. You couldn't be any closer to the beach and Great Mackerel is a prefect location.

• Reviewer: Emma

  Comments: A very comfortable home in an amazing location. The perfect place for anyone that needs to switch off for a few days. Communication with Richard was great. He did everything he could to make our stay enjoyable including having the construction workers next door turn their radio down. The kiddies loved the easy access to the beach and also spent lots of time playing the many games that are available. We didn’t want for anything.

• Reviewer: Marcus

  Comments: This is the perfect paradise for a quiet relaxing weekend. Beachfront is right there and omg the view all over Palm Beach and the lighthouse is simply amazing. There is also a separate tree house/parents retreat/teenagers getaway.

• Reviewer: Donna

  Comments: WOW just beautiful! Had the most amazing weekend here with our three adult children and their partners/friends. It was perfect for us because my husband and I could retreat to the tree house for peace and quiet and enjoy the breathtaking views. Right from the start communication with Richard was perfect. He went out of his way to make our stay enjoyable and even organised a mooring so that we could take our boat. The location is just spectacular, very quiet, and breathtakingly beautiful. The house is lovely, comfortable, clean and so well equipped. The showers were amazing and we loved the hot water outdoor shower to get all that sand off. The evenings cooled down enough to light the pit fire to sit around. Just be sure to keep doors closed when not inside, a bush turkey enjoyed a lovely cheese platter. Cant wait to go back.

• Reviewer: Andy

  Comments: Richard was amazing to deal with. He was great at communication and helping us know how to make the most of our time at this wonderful place. It truly is a special place and well worth a visit.

• Reviewer: Kate

  Comments: Lovely place and Richard is very helpful.

• Reviewer: Alex

  Comments: A perfect dream escape for one or many. We were a group of old friends catching up and this was perfect to swim, cook and sit together. Richard is a perfect considerate host and Great Mackerel is a place of beauty.

• Reviewer: Ali

  Comments: I have been an airbnb user for years and have never experienced a host as wonderful as Richard. He went out of his way to ensure we had a magical trip and we would recommend his place to anyone in a heartbeat. Do yourself a favour and book a getaway at Mackerel Beach - divine location, beautiful house and outstanding host.

• Reviewer: Angie

  Comments: What an incredibly beautiful location and charming beach house!! We were a group of 8 and found the house cosy and inviting with plenty of space for all of us to relax. Before our trip most of the group had not previously heard of Mackerel Beach, but it has quickly become a favourite destination in Sydney. Richard and Claudia are great hosts and were in touch before and throughout to ensure we had everything we needed. It’s not a matter of if we’ll go back but when! I have already recommended this property to family and friends. Thank you! It was a very memorable weekend away for all of us and the beautiful space you’ve created was a big part of that!

• Reviewer: Kerry-Anne

  Comments: This house is only 50 minutes from Sydney CBD and a 10 minute ferry/water taxi ride. It is literally on the beach and most rooms have fantastic views across the water. It is very relaxing and accommodating with everything you might need - just byo food and drink. After 3 days it felt like we had been away for a week. We would definitely come back again.

• Reviewer: Martina

  Comments: The Sandstone Cottage in Mackerel Beach is just absolutely stunning. The architecture of the house, the choice of furniture, the high quality linen and towels around the house, the handmade ceramics, the collection of art and objects around the house, the outside shower, the list goes on and on. The house has absolutely everything you could possibly wish for. It's one of the most beautiful houses we have ever been in. It makes you feel like you have arrived in paradise. I can recommend this as a serious experience if you wanna have a teste of heaven. :)

• Reviewer: Sophia

  Comments: Richard's place is exceptionally beautiful. It's chic and in a truly excellent location. Perfect for a little getaway. Richard was lovely to deal with, generous with his home and the home was thoughtfully stocked with everything you might require. We had an excellent little holiday.

• Reviewer: Liz

  Comments: My husband and I had a wonderful weekend at Richards gorgeous home, it was deeply relaxing, lovely views accross Pittwater right on the doorstep. We lots of fun and rest, a perfect weekend getaway, highly recommend

• Reviewer: Alan

  Comments: Lovely property in a very special spot

• Reviewer: Meagan

  Comments: A gorgeous and secluded home that is perfect for a quiet getaway. The house is cozy and fantastically equipped. We enjoyed cooking delicious meals and enjoying the view of Pittwater by day and the fire pit at night. Very family friendly with a number of stunning bush walks to choose from. We highly recommend this property.

• Reviewer: Tim

  Comments: Simply amazing little house in a relatively unknown part of Australia. We were there for 4 nights but it felt much longer. We played cards and board games at night, did not turn the television on once. Thanks Richard!

• Reviewer: Jane

  Comments: Can't say enough good things about this place. It's in one of the most beautiful spots in Sydney, with a gorgeous, sheltered North-east aspect looking over Barrenjoey Island. The house makes the most of the space - with beautiful and ample outdoor spaces to enjoy the view, and a gorgeously landscaped garden. It's even nicer than the photos if that's possible. The house is full of character and very stylishly appointed, yet relaxed and beachy enough so you feel at ease - and OK with kids! The treehouse bedroom is spectacular and we loved how it was decorated :-) Richard and Claudia have thought of everything - there's filtered tap water, coffee pods, and even a rice cooker which we used. We absolutely loved the fire pit - we were staying in July and were surprised at how much heat it gave as we sat around it watching the moon rise and the stars come out. Mackeral Beach itself is stunning - so nice to have peace from cars, and go for a bush walk on Sunday to Resolute Beach. The ferry was an easy way to travel, as was the water taxi. A wallaby came to visit us on the first night which was lovely. Richard was so nice and helpful to deal with via email and texts. Basically, we all want to move here! Falling short of that, we'll definitely be back for a holiday.

• Reviewer: Michael And Eve

  Comments: The location of Richards house is amazing! The views are beautiful and the peace and quiet is like nowhere else we’ve ever travelled! The house itself is well stocked with all the kitchen utensils you could want. It has been updated enough to have all the comforts you want and expect but still maintains the cottage feel. The only downside we experienced was with the mosquitos, even in winter you need to be mindful to keep all doors and windows closed.

• Reviewer: Tim

  Comments: Five stars is really insufficient for this place, the position is idyllic, our host was exemplary - he even fixed the weather which was perfect all weekend - and there was great attention to detail and numerous extras such as the fire pit all ready with kindling, or the kayaks on hand and the complimentary bottle of wine. Just perfect.

• Reviewer: Matthew

  Comments: Richard's cottage is definitely an even better experience than the pictures suggest, very scenic views and lots of comfort. We used the cottage as a unique location for a film production. Richard was extremely helpful in providing local knowledge for ease of logistical preparations. The one trouble my team experienced was unrelated to the location, however, a result of the location's remoteness (only accessible by water). That problem was that the Barge Service cancelled on us due to unexpectedly rough (unsafe) water and wind conditions, which affected schedule on our bump in. You also must not forget anything as it is not practical to run errands if you forget to bring anything with you. Other than this, the film shoot went very well and everyone was excited by the cottage and its views. On another note: the neighbours were incredibly friendly and helpful. It was very easy to make contact with them, liaise with them leading up to the shoot and on the day they were very cooperative on a few requests of ours. The water taxi and barge service operators were also friendly, punctual and cooperative. I would recommend this place and hope to someday return for a weekend holiday to this paradise corner - it really is a hidden gem of Sydney.

• Reviewer: Mark

  Comments: Beautiful place, perfect view. Richard was v communicative. Had an awesome couple of days with my work colleagues.

• Reviewer: Alex

  Comments: I recommend anyone who'd like to get away from the tumult of the city this wonderful peaceful hideaway. They've thought of everything for a relaxing get away

• Reviewer: Kerry

  Comments: Richards hospitality and beautiful home is an amazing place to stay for any occasion. We are seven women who appreciate great food and great environment. This is a perfect place to relax read swim cook great food and be amazed by the views accords the water to Palm Beach.

• Reviewer: Bill

  Comments: Cosy cottage with magnificent tranquil views. Right on the beach so immediate access to the water!

• Reviewer: Allison

  Comments: Spectacularly located cottage perfect for walks on the beach, swims and relaxing on the deck with a good book.

• Reviewer: Rosalind

  Comments: Beautiful views, a very special place to stay. Richard was an excellent host. Great walks, kayaking and swimming in Mackerel Beach.

• Reviewer: Louise

  Comments: Our favourite Airbnb !! Beautiful home with a breathtaking view. We spent many afternoons watching the sun set and sipping wine. Our children loved the beach and staying at this home too. Stunning decor. Wonderful thoughtful host. A truly magical place to escape to and relax. We will be back!

• Reviewer: Trav

  Comments: We’ve stayed at The McCallister’s regularly and always recommend it to others wanting a quick getaway. The house is perfect. The beach is paradise and the view is spectacular. Great hosts and wouldn’t want to stay anywhere else in the Pittwater region.