The beach is far more than a holiday destination, it's a source of inspiration, and the humble (or not so humble) beach shack is firmly rooted in our consciousness. Here are a few of our favourites ...
On the mid-east coast of
Tasmania, Avalon Coastal Retreat is built on a headland overlooking Great Oyster Bay and the Tasman Sea. A world of marine blue opens before you through the floor to ceiling windows that double as the exterior walls of the house.
This modernist bombshell includes original works of art, bespoke Tasmanian oak beds and an intriguing bath sculpted from huon pine. The polished concrete floors are heated. There is an espresso coffee machine. There are three double bedrooms at Avalon but not surprisingly the house's seclusion makes it popular with honeymooners. There are complimentary two-hour massages for the just avowed.
Find out more: Avalon Coastal Retreat
Think of an island,
Australia's third-largest yet still seven times the size of
Singapore. Think of native bushland, wildlife and pristine beaches. Think of adventure and days of exploring. Think of beach houses, local wines and sunsets. You're thinking of Island Beach Lodge on
Kangaroo Island. Located approximately 15 kilometres south of the ferry dock in Penneshaw, Island Beach Lodge is a special blend with its northern beach aspect widely regarded as one of the most prestigious sections of coastline on
Kangaroo Island. It's modern, stylish, luxurious accommodation that can be offered separately as two apartments or one house sleeping up to 14 people.
Find out more: Island Beach Lodge
Just three hours drive south from Perth is beautiful Eagle Bay in the
Margaret River wine region, an area that is fast becoming one of the most exclusive coastal getaways in
Australia. Eagle Bay offers visitors the ultimate beachside experience with its glorious turquoise waters, stunning beach and pristine natural environment. Arguably the most opulent luxury property in the area, Jahangir is a beautifully designed home, set on the hillside above the ocean. It can accommodate up to 10 guests and is meticulously configured to take full advantage of the spectacular views from as many vantage points as possible. This magnificent home will please even those with the most discerning tastes. Wineries, restaurants, galleries and other attractions are all within easy driving distance.
Find out more: Jahangir
Imagine a retreat where every room captures stunning views from every angle. A place where to the west you can watch the sun setting over tropical mountains or looking east spy dolphins frolicking in the Coral Sea. Stop imagining and take in Malimali, Queensland's newest private retreat located set on 40 acres of mountain top near Port Douglas. Designed by internationally acclaimed architect, Chris van Dyke, this spectacular retreat offers first-class luxury and style. Features include cascading water gardens that run alongside tropical pavilions, golf driving range, heli-pad and world class tennis court. And its three king bedrooms offer superior accommodation for up to eight guests.
Find out more: Malimali
This new luxury accommodation is a self-contained and fully-equipped cottage set on
Darwin's Esplanade, overlooking the harbour. Originally a large bungalow-style residence occupied by Supreme Court Justice Wells, the house been through its share of
Darwin history. The three bedrooms are well-appointed with Kim Snow Box Furniture and Asian antiques. The rest of the house includes eclectic oriental-themed furniture, which evokes a period when the Colonial traders and Chinese settlers established the frontier town of
Darwin. Other art featured throughout Mandalay offers an insight into local, indigenous and Australian contemporary art. The quirky collection adds a further dimension to the home, offering a lighter ambience to the luxuriant decor.
Find out more: Mandalay Luxury Stay
Set into sage-coloured scrub that rolls back from the surf at Prevelly on WA's south-west coast, Ron Roozen's home is a dedication to surfing, the elements and the enviable
Margaret River lifestyle. This architecturally award winning beach house was designed by prominent Sydney-based architect, Dale Jones-Evans, and is the epitome of luxury beach-side living. As you descend into the house, you will be drawn into a cinemascopic journey that flaunts unsurpassed 180 degree ocean views of the Indian Ocean from every room. The iconic holiday home of local artist and surfer, Ron Roozen is now available to discerning travellers offering a spacious hip alternative to the normal run-of-the mill establishments. Minimal in design and stylishly appointed, the residence exemplifies the region's most sought-after accommodation. Every detail has been factored in — a pantry service, a personal chef, daily servicing (if required) and wine touring can be arranged.
Find out more: Ron Roozen's Place
Situated along
South Australia's lovely Limestone Coast is the historic seaside port of Robe. Here you find the delicious Villa Pescatore. An original stone fisherman's cottage, Villa Pescatore has been designed as a stylish yet unpretentious getaway with modern architectural additions taking advantage of Robe's wonderful beach views. Carefully designed to cater for the discriminating traveller it is an eclectic combination of French provincial charm, tranquil Eastern ambience, mixed with dashes of romantic Mediterranean appeal. The thoughtful design of the property lends itself to romantic rendezvous for two, a great getaway for two couples or a special family beach escape.
Find out more: Villa Pescatore
Be sure to check out our photo gallery of the best beach houses in Oz by clicking here: 
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