Skip to Main Content.
List your propertySupportTrips
Member discount illustration

Members save 10% or more on over 100,000 hotels worldwide when you’re signed in

Sign in
Learn about Expedia Rewards
Feedback
Entire apartment·Private host

The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach!

Photo gallery for The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach!

Outdoor dining
Interior
1 bedroom, desk, free WiFi
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Rainfall showerhead, hair dryer
The Bower Bird Shack is a bush haven with an eco-friendly twist, nestled in the heart of Illawarra escarpment. This cosy apartment offers a queen bed with a top-quality latex mattress and comfortable bunk beds, perfect for families or couples looking to unwind amidst nature. The fully equipped kitchen and lounge area provide ample space for relaxation while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Reviews

8.6 out of 10
Excellent

Entire apartment

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Barbecue grill
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen
  • Parking available
  • Pet-friendly

Add dates for prices

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire apartment to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach!

If you love camping and love the bush, but want comfort as well (without the colourbond fence!)
- The shack is for you!

The Bower Bird Shack is a cosy apartment built from new and recycled materials and with an ecologically sound waterless toilet. It is nestled in the bush near the popular Sharkey's and Coledale Beaches. It is up and away from the blustery nor-easters that come through in a cool, bush setting. So relaxing and private, yet close to shops, restaurants, clubs, cafes and of course, beaches.

From the comfortable queen bed, you may see, if you are quiet enough, a Bower Bird hopping about its business in the green foliage. There is also single bunk beds in the generous sized family bedroom and a sofa bed in the sitting area.

The Bower Bird Shack is a hidden treasure. It has the comforts of a queen size bed with a top quality latex mattress. The family bedroom is separated from the rest of the apartment with a door, it has 1 queen and a set of single bunk beds in the bedroom with fantastic views out the large bedroom windows into the natural bush garden.

A fully equipped kitchen (quaint early 80's style in great shape) with stove top, oven and grill. The kitchen and lounge are one cosy space, with a raised bench to enjoy a coffee and the peaceful bush.

The bathroom is equipped with a separate shower with a large rain shower head and separate bath. A unique feature of the shack is its ecologically sound waterless toilet. This is a state of the art Canadian designed composting toilet system certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 41.

You will find, however, that you want to spend most of your time outdoors. The outdoor area has a dining table under the trees and is pleasantly private.

If you love the relaxed atmosphere of camping, but want a comfortable bed - This is for you! Bring your own linens to take advantage of our low advertised rate, or ask us to supply them for $25 per person per stay.

Enjoy privacy, bush and why not have a campfire at night!

There is a barbecue with outside lighting

PETS are welcome at The Bower Bird Shack
.
Please Note, The property is NOT FENCED. Therefore, all pets are required to be on a lead or controlled at all times when on the property. For many pets, this is o.k. as we have a long lead available, and they are happily tired after great big runs on the local leash-free Sharkey's Beach. Pet-sitting is available by arrangement when suitable, however, pets are not to be left in accommodation unsupervised.

CHILDREN are also welcomed at The Bower Bird Shack.
Please Note, however: The property is NOT FENCED. There are potential hazards for unsupervised children as you would expect in a bush setting adjacent to a furniture workshop and with creek nearby. The bower bird shack is nestled into the Illawarra escarpment with fantastic bird life, water dragons and you may hear the resident wallaby thump past at night or dawn
Please note: there is NO TV RECEPTION at the shack. We supply a television and DVD player, with a selection of DVDs, novels and magazines

Property manager

Carol Montague

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the apartment: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Hob
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Rainfall showerhead

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • Smart TV
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Fenced yard

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • Up to 25 kg per pet

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Designated smoking areas
  • Note from host: strictly outdoors away from doorways

Location highlights

  • Next to a golf course

Things to do

  • Fishing nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Outdoor lighting

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Rules

Pets are welcome, but are not to be left unsupervised on the property unless by prior arrangement on booking. Many pet friendly venues available.
Pets are not to be on furniture - ensure you bring clean, additional blankets/towels to cover upholstery if you cannot prevent them, please.

Pets

Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
2 total (up to 25 kg per pet)
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property on the number on the booking confirmation
Note from host: well behaved and social dogs dogs only

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Note from host: careful supervision as natural hazards present

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Strictly outdoors away from doorways

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include outdoor lighting
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

Property is also known as

Bower Bird Shack Bush Beach Property Coledale
Bower Bird Shack Bush Beach Property
Bower Bird Shack Bush Beach Coledale
Bower Bird Shack Bush Beach
Property The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach! Coledale
Coledale The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach! Property
Property The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach!
The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach! Coledale
Bower Bird Shack Bush Beach Apartment Coledale
Bower Bird Shack Bush Beach Apartment
Bower Bird Shack Bush Beach Coledale
Bower Bird Shack Bush Beach
Apartment The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach! Coledale
Coledale The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach! Apartment
Apartment The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach!
The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach! Coledale
The Bower Bird Shack Bush Beach!
Bower Bird Shack Bush Coledale
The Bower Bird Shack, Bush &
The Bower Bird Shack Bush Beach!
The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach! Apartment
The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach! Wollongong
The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach! Apartment Wollongong
145615

About the area

Map
Coledale, NSW

Getting around

  • Coledale Station - 5 min walk
  • Shellharbour, NSW (WOL) - 38 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 25 kg per pet.

What time is check-in at The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach!?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach!?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach! located?

Located in Coledale, this golf apartment building is within a 15-minute walk of Coledale Beach, Sharky Beach, and Wombarra Sculpture Garden. Little Austinmer Beach and Austinmer Boatharbour are also within 2 miles (3 km). Coledale Station is only a 5-minute walk and Wombarra Station is 28 minutes.

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

The Bower Bird Shack, Bush & Beach! Reviews

Reviews

8.6

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 12 out of 24 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 9 out of 24 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 24 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 24 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 24 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

LEAH O.

SUPERB PET FRIENDLY BEACH N BUSH HIDEAWAY WITH ALL THE COMFORTS SURROUNDED BY THE SOUNDS OF NATURE

My Pup and I had the most lovely stay here in Coledale at the Bowerbird Shack. We loved it so much we extended our stay and will return here often. The dog beach is literally down the hill, and the accommodation is fully self contained and very comfortable. After a long day running along the beach, we were both so happy to return to the Shack for dinner, a wine, and relax. Brad and Carol made us feel totally welcome and secure here. Their property has excellent reviews for good reason. We are in awe of the beauty of the area and we feel so incredibly lucky to find this place where my dog's welfare is taken into consideration. Its a very dog friendly area all round. Thank you for having us and I hope you don't mind if we return here many times in the future, and tell our friends that this beautiful place exists. L & T xx
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2018
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

6/10 Okay

Veronica H.

As it is described "The Shack"

We stayed just after New Year 2018 and really enjoyed our time. The positives were NO TV RECEPTION so had plenty of interaction with our children and lots of privacy. The shack was exactly what was advertised, beautiful surroundings and suited our needs and budget. The area was perfect with plenty of beaches, eateries and lots to do. We walked up that hill a handful of times, it wasn't easy but doable My real worry was the toilet, but don't be. This system is brilliant with no smell at all, just a little drafty........ A few suggestions that may help other guests during their stay * add a few hooks for towels in the bathroom * extra pillow in the wardrobe needs a pillowcase * outside shelter - maybe a sail over the front door * clothes airer or a line strung up for drying * UHT milk in the fridge on arrival * small first aid kit * add a few board games

10/10 Excellent

Kim H.

A lovely stay

A comfortable, quiet stay with a few little extras. Thanks
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2019

8/10 Good

Tracey K.

Good location. Basic but comfortable.

A little hot in summer afternoons. We took an extra fan which helped. Some additional instructions with the composting toilet would be helpful. Great proximity to dog beach and our dogs had the best time.

8/10 Good

Lei L.

Very good

Owner is very nice
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2018

10/10 Excellent

Lance N.

A great place to relax and unwind

A great place to relax and unwind
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2018
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Kylie D.

Suited our needs perfectly

Friendly hosts that weren’t intrusive and were fine with us arriving early and leaving a little late. A little lacking in food but we got by. We just needed somewhere to sleep and eat as we spent most of our days out and about but if you plan on having family time together it might be a little cramped. The rainforest like setting was very peaceful and it felt like we were away from it all but we were still close to the train station and nearby shops. Very accomodating to our dog. Could’ve used some power boards or extention cords and another fan or two. The hill up from the Main Street is a trek and a half, would recommend driving if possible unless you’re pretty fit.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Wendy H.

Very Nice!

We loved this "cottage". It's in an almost rainforest setting, just minutes to the beach (up a very steep hill...we took the car) At the end of the road is a brilliant general store that does superb breakfasts. The beach is dog friendly and so is the cottage so yay for that! We loved the fresh white linen and towels, thank you Carol and Brad. Not sure why there is no TV or wifi but it did not matter.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

GRAEME J.

Excellent and peaceful property.

Terrific location. Close to the shops and an off-leash beach for our dog. The setting was very peaceful with the coolness of the trees and the birds with their pleasing songs all through the day. Our hosts were very pleasant and even thought of our dog which was welcomed there. Everything was provided even to bacon and fresh eggs in the fridge for breakfast. if we need to stay around that area again, this will be our first choice. Thank you. Colleen and Graeme from Bega.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Loretta G.

Relaxing and peaceful.

I enjoyed my stay here as is was a green and tranquil location away from the bustle but within minutes from the beach on foot. Our dog loved it and the dog friendly Sharkey's Beach. Local cafes are amazing too. However, it is not everyone's cup of tea as there is no Wi-Fi or access to TV channels on the property. This was a plus for me. Comfortable with all the necessities, secluded but a stone's throw away from shops, activities, beaches, etc. Would definitely go back again.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

JANE B.

Gorgeous bush shack!

We loved our stay here...so peaceful, surrounded by green. The cabin is roomy and has everything we needed...very comfy bed and pillows, clean, friendly host, great breakfast. Just lovely. Would definitely recommend.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

ASTRID H.

Perfect Getaway

This little hideaway was exactly as we had hoped: quiet, beautiful, close to beaches and equip with all the necessities. Perfect for our short getaway with our pup.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Outstanding location and setting

The 'Bower Bird Shack' is a slice of heaven with a beautiful rainforest setting that is so peaceful... yet 1 minute to the beach, shops, train and all other conveniences. Highly recommend this property for a couple or family of 4 as it offers great affordability in a superb location. Carol and Brad are wonderful hosts and we will be back to Coledale again... Regards Frank & Kerri
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

2/10 Terrible

JAMES B.

Lawn being mowed at 7am. Is not peaceful.

We were happy with the stay but I was dumbfounded that on our last morning we were woken by the lawn being mowed right outside before 7am. This is taking the mickey, No apology just a huff from the kid when I asked what he is doing as we where asleep. Most unprofessional plus I doubt under the bed has been vacuumed in a year or two
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

GARETH N.

Perfect getaway

We loved our stay at the Coalface. The location is fantastic for those who wish to feel like they're away from it all, yet it's near enough to anything you will need. The unit is clean and has everything. The views were fantastic, as was the garden. We and our chihuahua will be back!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Jo G.

Lovely Break on the Coast

We had a lovely stay. Compact property with everything that was required, the breakfast supplies were great. Walking distance to a good dog beach with really good amenities. The owners were very helpful during the booking and in regards to actually locating the property on arrival. Plenty to see and do in the local area. The bush setting was a nice change though the ability to shut curtains and block light out with small children would have been useful.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Tessa L.

Peaceful

Had a wonderfully relaxing time at this beautiful property. Just a short walk to multiple beaches, good for swimming, walking and lazing about. Hosts quick to respond, helpful and there if I needed- otherwise left me to my own devices. Loved leaving my foodscraps for the chooks and eating oranges straight from the tree.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Dan O.

Amazing

We stayed here in June 2015 and absolutely loved it. We had two dogs with us and fell in love with Coledale. Amazing little place with a gorgeous dog friendly beach. We will be back soon
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Wendy G.

Great place, we hope to return.

We had a lovely mini break. The shack was clean and had everything we needed and is a stones throw from the beach and great eateries. The setting is gorgeous, Lovely native rainforest/wet schelophyl and is eco-friendly. The dog also had a ball. Hosts are charming and very helpful; driving us down to jump start our car after we'd left was above and beyond the call of duty and we are very grateful, thankyou!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

2/10 Terrible

Deb M.

Overpriced!

Unfortunately 1st impressions stuck. The shack wide open, dirty footprints on kitchen floor and last minute electrical maintenance. This was after agreed 2pm check in time. There were no teaspoons, 2 champagne glasses and 1 wineglass. The kitchen cupboards need a good clean. Totally overpriced at $200 a night. No barbecuing the 1st night as the bbq was well rusted and filthy. To the hosts credit, the BBQ was replaced for the next night but we ran out of gas. The outdoor setting has certainly seen better days. Leeches, rats and Mosquitos were very unwelcome guests through the unscreened entry to the shack.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

NICOLE H.

Simple, affordable, relaxed, beautiful

We are a couple and stayed in the Bower Bird Shack with our 2 dogs for 1 week. It is very much as described- the comfort of a real, cosy bed and other facilities with the atmosphere of camping, and it was spotless when we arrived. We had a lovely, relaxing, romantic break. Brad even brought us some fish he'd caught to cook on the BBQ, which was gorgeous! Things to bear in mind: * It is rare to be able to take your dogs somewhere modern and relatively private that is also affordable as a couple. We loved that. * The composting toilet is great! Sure, it takes a little getting used to, but here's something amazing: it doesn't smell AT ALL- not even straight after use. That's better than a water toilet, and it's brilliant for the environment. * You are in the Rainforest- it is incredibly beautiful and special to wake up every morning to THAT view, or have an afternoon doze to those unique comforting rainforesty sounds and local birdlife. However, you also need to remember that... you are in the rainforest. It can be damp and bit dark when it rains (there's no undercover outdoor area), and there are some yucky little buggy creatures around (but no flies!!!! That was a huge relief to me). So take LOTS of towels and linen, especially if you have dogs, and you might want extra bug-protection although some is supplied. * The shack isn't exactly stand alone, it's attached to the furniture-making business. The building is soundproofed, and we hardly heard a thing (and Brad was happy to show us around), but it wasn't quite what we expected. However the Bower Bird Shack has a separate entrance, windows facing the Rainforest as in the pictures, and no one ever comes to that side (Brad and Carol are very respectful of privacy), so you can wander around in the nude, or play music or movies loudly. You wouldn't get that freedom in the local caravan parks, camping grounds or hotels/motels. * The kitchen and living space is small, but we cook all the time and we managed fine (with a few extra implements such as a small blender). I wouldn't recommend bringing a big family if you're not used to smaller spaces. It rained quite a bit over our stay, so if it wasn't rainy you'd probably cook outdoors a lot more. There's an RSL, a takeaway, and a posh-ish restaurant down the road to cover all bases- oh, and a wonderful cellar with lots of local ciders, beers and wines. It's a 10 min drive to Thirroul Fruit Barn (which is also a Deli) and other shops in Thirroul area, so we st
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Eleanor W.

Peaceful but close to the beach.

The shack is basic but suited my husband, myself and our dog quite well. We were able to take our dog to nearby Sharkey's beach daily (off-leash) and get coffee and videos down the street. There is no television reception in the shack.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Bridget M., Coles Bay, Tasmania

Peaceful and Convenient

Quiet/peaceful location but close to beaches, shops, hotels etc - less than 5 min drive or 15 min walk. Hosts lovely and helpful.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Tan A.

Clean and comfortable

We stayed briefly for one night but the property was nice, light, clean and comfortable. Carol is very welcoming and offered good tips for the local area. Kitchen area is large with a selection of DVDs and the bathroom has a great shower. The real charm however is waking  up to the noises of nature outside - it has SUCH a charm and is incredibly relaxing. We could have stayed in bed all day!