Shelly Beach Retreat

It felt like having my own beach house, just in a much more beautiful spot. Sitting on the deck with wine, we even saw a whale. Magical. Loved everything about it.

Shelly Beach Retreat has a five-star view and location, and charges accordingly, but the facilities don’t justify the price. The house is old and furnished with hand-me-down rejects. The kitchen was dirty. The dishwasher was good and cleaned the everyday crockery and cutlery, but there were other items I wouldn’t use at all. Clean sheets were a bonus, while the old, worn towels were past their use-by date. The pantry had opened, half-used packets and bottles that were past their use-by dates, and the flywire screens on the doors and windows were broken. I’ve travelled around the world and much of Australia, staying in all sorts of places. I’ve always expected and received what I paid for, whether it was cheap budget accommodation or five star. This was the first time I got cheap-budget quality at a five-star price. Unless you think a good view is worth it all, it’s way overpriced for what you get.

The facilities feel homely and make the stay even nicer. With the great views and amazing tranquillity, it’s a really calming, relaxing place.

A lovely retreat, and there are lots of shells to collect.