The Little Black Shack

Rescued from Ruin, An Authentic Fisherman’s Shack Tells Tales of the Sea

With its north east orientation that lets you wake to the sunrise over the headlands with fresh sea air and bright, natural light throughout the year, the authentic fisherman's shack offers an eco-friendly retreat from the ordinary.

The open-plan living room has a window seat spanning the full length of the room, overlooking stunning views of the bay. The dining area and chef’s kitchen open out onto a small covered balcony and larger deck beside it, also with ocean views.

The main bedroom has access to a private lawn and garden and the bed is elevated to take full advantage of the views while the second bedroom is reached by a short set of stone steps in front of the house. Built from the original sandstone and lined with timber, it’s a cozy nest with a private stone terrace, and a grassy shaded area with a hammock to admire the panoramic views. 

The house features an eclectic mix of antiques and collectibles gathered from travels around the world and forages along the beach, as well as recycled and handcrafted furniture found or built specifically for the house.

The outdoor pergola is the spot for open-air dining with a wood-fired oven, an outdoor sandstone kitchen, and a camp-style barbecue. Guests can help themselves to fresh herbs from the kitchen garden. Launch the kayaks, or dive right in to the crystal clear waters from your very own private beach below. 

Additional features

Wifi, large flat-screen TV (no cable, but there is Apple TV), Bose surround sound Wifi stereo system with speakers in both bedrooms and the outdoor areas, extensive library. Kitchen and bath amenities. Two kayaks, fishing reels, snorkeling gear and beach umbrella provided, outdoor shower. 

Around

Sixty minutes north of Sydney with the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park at your back, Mackerel Beach is one of the loveliest, protected stretches of coastline in New South Wales. A small, sandy beach fronts the house where you can dive right in, snorkel, fish or take out the kayaks to explore the many local coves and bays.

You’ll find friendly locals (including wallabies and bush turkeys), ancient Aboriginal carving sites, and some original fibro beach cottages along with incredible bush walks to secluded beaches and lookouts including The Basin Lagoon all within walking distance.

Should you feel the urge to head back to the mainland, the old timber ferry departs every hour for the ten minute ride to Palm Beach wharf where you can dine at the local restaurants, pubs and cafes, browse the shops, galleries and local markets, and make the trek up to Barrenjoey Lighthouse. The quaint beach town of Avalon, is also just 15 minutes drive away. 

Location

Great Mackerel Beach, Pittwater, New South Wales, Australia. Nearest airport: Sydney International (90 mins). It’s a 60-minute drive to Palm Beach from the city of Sydney and a short ferry/water taxi ride from Palm Beach to Mackerel Beach.

Best time to visit

Year round