Catho Cottage is a charming, renovated miner’s cottage tucked away in the serene coastal village of Catherine Hill Bay. Surrounded by native bushland and just a short stroll from the patrolled beach, it offers a peaceful escape where you can unwind to the sound of the ocean and birdsong. A spacious, unfenced backyard and rear veranda make the perfect setting for your morning coffee or an evening glass of wine in the fresh sea air.
Inside, the cottage feels warm and welcoming. The cosy lounge room features casual décor, a wall-mounted TV, DVD player and stereo, ideal for relaxed movie nights after a day at the beach. There are two comfortable bedrooms – one with a queen bed, the second with a double and a single – making it a great choice for couples, small families or a close group of friends. The kitchen overlooks the backyard and is fully equipped with a full-size fridge, gas hotplates, electric oven and microwave, so you can easily prepare meals at home.
The bathroom includes a shower, vanity, toilet and heated towel rack for added comfort. The cottage runs on mains electricity, supplemented by solar power, with gas heating and tank water supporting its eco-conscious design. Outside, a backyard barbecue sets the scene for easy summer dinners under the sky.
Catho Cottage is booked exclusively for your use and is professionally cleaned before arrival, with convenient contactless check-in and check-out. It’s an ideal base for bushwalking, surfing, swimming, beach or rock fishing, or simply enjoying quiet walks along secluded shores. Swansea is only a 10-minute drive away for supermarkets, clubs and essential amenities. Please note there is no Wi-Fi and no pets allowed at Catho Cottage, making it a true digital-detox, nature-focused getaway.
Add dates for prices
Have a question?
AI iconBetaBeta
Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
No Parties or Hens/Bucks nights. This home is in a residential area.
Important information
You need to know
Property registration number PID-STRA-8350
Property # 9132217
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 indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Newcastle
Located by the sea, this holiday home is in Catherine Hill Bay, a neighbourhood in Newcastle. Belmont Golf Course and Magenta Shores Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Lake Macquarie and Wallarah National Park. Discover the area's water adventures with snorkelling, fishing and swimming nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking.
Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area - 3 min drive - 2.7 km
University of Newcastle - 41 min drive - 40.6 km
Newcastle Beach - 46 min drive - 42.5 km
Getting around
Wyee Station - 17 min drive
Newcastle, NSW (NTL-Williamtown) - 61 min drive
Restaurants
Caves Beachside Hotel - 11 min drive
Nords Wharf Trading Post - 6 min drive
Matt’s Diner - 10 min drive
Swansea Hotel - 9 min drive
The Baker's Den Bakery Café - 10 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Catho Cottage at Historic Catherine Hill Bay pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Catho Cottage at Historic Catherine Hill Bay?
As of 28 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Catho Cottage at Historic Catherine Hill Bay on 4 June 2026 start from NZ$438, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Catho Cottage at Historic Catherine Hill Bay?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Catho Cottage at Historic Catherine Hill Bay?
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Catho Cottage at Historic Catherine Hill Bay?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Catho Cottage at Historic Catherine Hill Bay located?
Located in Catherine Hill Bay, this holiday home is within 1 mile (2 km) of Catherine Hill Beach and Moonee Beach. Ghosties Beach and Wallarah National Park are also within 3 miles (5 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
The only thing missing is wifi otherwise really lovely place to stay for a quiet get away!
Jane I.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 19 May 2025
Thank you for your lovely review! We're so glad you enjoyed your quiet getaway. Just to clarify, Wi-Fi is not listed as an available amenity as it is currently not provided at the property. We appreciate your feedback and will certainly consider it for future improvements. We hope to welcome you back soon for another relaxing stay!
Kind regards,
The Lakeshores Team
Loved this pristine cottage in its quiet, beachside spot!
Immaculately presented, this great little cottage has become our go-to for short stays. It has absolutely everything we need for a relaxing holiday, with its well-equipped kitchen, comfy beds and a glorious yard full of birds and native plants.
This little cottage was the perfect home for a short weekend away from the city. It is beautifully appointed with everything you could need, including quality knives & pans for cooking, a good heater & modern TV. Proximity to the beach was brilliant; a short 5 minute walk down the road which was well worth an early morning to watch the sunrise. We loved it so much, we booked again for September.
Johanna S.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 7 August 2023
Hi Johanna, we are so glad you enjoyed your stay! We hope to see you next time.
Such a great location. This beautiful cottage is on a quiet street in a sleepy village close to the beach. You feel like you've stepped back in time to an age when the world wasn't rushed and full of mcmansions. The house was beautifully renovated and decorated. It was very comfortable, without being excessive. The kitchen was so well stocked. The big backyard was awesome. We will definitely be back.
Easy to book - yes the sheets and towels were included as were a fabulous kitchen! Sharp knives for cooking. Comfortable beds and a shower that had water pressure, hot water and I didn’t have to duck to get under the shower head! Easy walk to the beach and as it was on a dead-end street no “drive by’s”.
Belinda B.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 7 August 2023
Thanks Belinda, We are so happy your loved our home. We look forward to seeing you again soon.
We loved the charm and character of this beach house. Simple, comfortable, charming and close to the beach. Perfectly clean and modern inside too.
Naomi B.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 7 August 2023
Thank you for your lovely review, Naomi! We are so glad you enjoyed the home and its location, we would love to have you stay again.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
david l.
21 March 2019
Lovely little cottage with all mod cons
Little cottage sitting on a beautiful block of land
Sitting on back porch looking into backyard and bush is amazing
david l.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 7 August 2023
Thank you for your lovely review David! We are glad you had a great stay and hope to see you again! :)
About the host
Hosted by Lakeshores Holiday & Short Stay Accommodation
With over 25 years of experience, we understand what guests are looking for. We manage a diverse range of quality holiday homes in the picturesque Lake Macquarie area and surrounds. As a family-owned business, our expertise and passion ensure you will receive exceptional service, professionally cleaned properties, and round-the-clock management.
Our team, Stacey, Shannon, Ruby, Josh, are dedicated to your stay and love the area we live in, with its stunning lake, forests, and beaches. Arianne (our Lakeshores receptionist) is available online and by phone if needed to ensure you have quick communication at all times. We also have a 24/7 after-hours service for any emergencies you may have.
We are here to assist with queries about the area and our properties, and we look forward to helping you with any enquiries during your stay and afterward.
Why they chose this property
Catherine Hill Bay is a small coastal village located in New South Wales. Known for its pristine beaches and historical significance, it offers a charming blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The township is named after the "Catherine Hill," a two-masted wooden topsail schooner built at Wisemans Ferry in 1866. Catherine Hill ran aground on the beach between Bird Island Point and Lake Macquarie during a fierce gale. The beach and bay where the shipwreck occurred were later named Catherine Hill Bay in commemoration of the wreck. The owner of the ship was Captain Hill. The town's iconic jetty, surrounded by picturesque cliffs, provides a stunning backdrop for visitors to enjoy the atmosphere and indulge in various outdoor activities such as swimming, surfing, and fishing. Catherine Hill Bay is known as one of 'Australia's 101 Best Beaches'. This coastal gem is renowned for its popular surf beach, attracting surfers from far and wide. Its historic coal mining jetty stands proudly as a local landmark. The town boasts convenient proximity, just a short 5-minute drive from Swansea's city centre. For diving enthusiasts, an exciting adventure awaits with the exploration of the shipwreck 'Shamrock.' Ideal diving conditions occur during offshore winds and calm seas. While in Catherine Hill Bay, a visit to the famous 'Catho Pub' is a must, offering a relaxed ambiance for enjoying drinks or a fantastic meal. Sunday evenings come alive with live bands, perfect for those seeking a lively atmosphere. Additionally, the pub features a dedicated kids' play area.
What makes this property unique
Why guests love Catho Cottage
Authentic renovated miner’s cottage in a heritage coastal village
Surrounded by native bushland, approx. 500m to patrolled Catherine Hill Bay Beach
Spacious unfenced backyard and rear veranda for relaxed outdoor living
Eco-conscious stay with solar, gas heating and tank water
No Wi-Fi for a true digital detox, perfect for unplugging and reconnecting
Ideal base for bushwalking, surfing, rock fishing and exploring secluded coves
Easy 10 minute drive to Swansea for supermarkets, clubs and essential supplies
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests