The Mac Shak is a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom beach holiday house which is perfect in summer to relax on the private and sheltered tree-top deck and in winter snuggling up to the cosy wood fired heater. The Mac Shak is an elevated pole house, located 10 minutes walk, or 2 minute drive from the beach and adjoining the Bouddhi National Park at the rear. Our property suits families, with its casual and rustic décor, and couples wanting a quiet and relaxed get-away in a bush setting.
“PLEASE NOTE – This property is not suitable for school leavers/Hens or Bucks parties/Events/Weddings/Birthday functions or parties - this is a family property with permanent residents as neighbours. Noise carries and levels must be kept to an acceptable level. Large groups of adults are generally not accepted, as the house is better suited to family groups. Groups of up to 6 adults will only be considered on the basis that no additional visitors will be allowed at the property and our neighbours & House Rules will be will be respected.
Additionally, all guests are subject to the NSW Code of Conduct - see https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0012/925788/Code-of-Conduct-for-the-Short-term-Rental-Accommodation-Industry.pdf “
The Mac Shak welcomes pet stay enquiries and is complimented by the dog friendly beach zone located between Macmasters and Copacabana beaches. Please note our PET STAY INFORMATION at the end of the description and the small additional cleaning fee that applies for a pet stay.
Accommodation comprises 3 queen bedrooms, all with built-in wardrobes, with the third being loft accommodation. We have a port-a-cot and high chair available on request. There are 2 bathrooms and a separate powder room which comprise a bath, 2 showers, 2 toilets and 2 vanities.
The Mac Shak is available all year round. Linen and bath towels are provided. You will just need to bring your beach towels and grab your food supplies at the Kincumber Shopping Centre on the way or book online. There is, also, a local fish co-op on The Scenic Drive on the way in to Macs. Little Beach, a small secluded cove in the National Park is a short bush walk away or drive and is ideal for relaxing away from the crowd.
The Mac Shak has a large elevated covered deck overlooking the National Park with bird wildlife abundant. It is perfect for a BBQ with a cold beverage and outdoor dining at the glass table or timber bar. There is, also, an outdoor lounge and dog bed. P.S. The kookaburras love your meat scraps to be left on the hand rail.
The raw timber kitchen is fully equipped, including large oven and 5 burner gas cooktop, microwave, coffee pod machine, blender, air fryer, large fridge/freezer and dishwasher.
The lounge/dining is a large casual space with high raked ceiling and slow combustion fireplace. A large supply of dry firewood is available beside and under the house. There is a 55 inch SMART LCD TV, Sony DVD, XBox360 with over 20 games, Bluetooth stereo sound bar and comfy sofa make for a relaxing stay when the weather is unfavourable. There are DVDs, books, magazines, games and puzzles provided.
There is a beach shower to rinse off after a day at the beach, a laundry, outdoor furniture, hooded gas BBQ, off-street parking for 3 cars and a great grassed play area for the kids, including an outdoor Fireplace.
Activities await. Swim the patrolled Macmasters or Copacabana Beaches, splash with the toddlers in the Macs rock pool, have a paddle on Cochrone Lagoon, surf the perfect wave breaks on the Point or between the two patrolled areas, choose a spot for beach fishing or have a wander through the National Park. Enjoy breakfast at Zacs or the beach side cafes at Macs and Copa, or a casual dinner, or just drinks, at the Macs surf club cafe on Friday and Sunday evenings.
Also, a number of guests have taken advantage of a Woolworths or Coles grocery delivery soon after their check-in, so that they don't have to stop for supplies with a full car, after a long journey or with irritable children.
CHECK IN: 2.00pm CHECK OUT: 10.00am
Times can be varied subject to guest turnover requirements
RATES Please be advised that there is a 20% deposit required for bookings made in advance to secure your desired dates. The outstanding balance will be due 1 month prior to your stay.
INFORMATION FOR OUR PET STAY ENQUIRERS
Macmasters Beach has a designated dog-friendly beach zone and pet stay is very welcome. Properties in Macmasters Beach are generally not fenced, however, the Mac Shak is enclosed on the side boundaries with timber paling and ranch style post and rail with dog-proof wire fencing. The front is enclosed with dog-proof wire fencing and a galvanised iron gate. Our pet stay guests pay a small fee towards additional cleaning and please note that pets are not permitted on the beds or other furniture.
GENERAL LOCATION INFORMATION
Macmasters Beach is a comfortable 90 minute drive north of the Sydney CBD (outside peak hour). The Kincumber Shopping Village is on the way, which has a Coles supermarket, green grocer, butcher, baker and seafood shop, with the specialties offering fresh local produce. Alternatively, guests can take advantage of Coles or Woolworths on-line shopping and have their groceries and and/or liquor delivered after their arrival.
The Bouddhi National Park is at your doorstep and further along the peninsula is Killcare Beach and Hardy's Bay (a 15 minute drive) offering boating and boat hire facilities. Avoca and Terrigal beaches and Erina Fair Shopping Centre are a 15 mins drive to the north, with deep sea and reef fishing charters available at Terrigal Wharf.
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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 indicated that there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property, but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
Macmasters Beach
Located in Macmasters Beach, this holiday home is near the beach. Ettalong Beach and Ken Duncan Gallery are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include Henry Kendall Cottage & Historical Museum and Barrenjoey Lighthouse. Travelling with kids? Consider Umina Recreation Centre and Crommelin Native Arboretum. Jet skiing and waterskiing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling and horse riding nearby.
Is The Mac Shak - Bushland Retreat (Pet Friendly) pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at The Mac Shak - Bushland Retreat (Pet Friendly)?
As of 20 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Mac Shak - Bushland Retreat (Pet Friendly) on 13 June 2026 start from NZ$393, 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 The Mac Shak - Bushland Retreat (Pet Friendly)?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at The Mac Shak - Bushland Retreat (Pet Friendly)?
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
What time is check-out at The Mac Shak - Bushland Retreat (Pet Friendly)?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is The Mac Shak - Bushland Retreat (Pet Friendly) located?
This family-friendly Macmasters Beach holiday home is located by the sea, within a 15-minute walk of Bouddi National Park and Copacabana Beach. Little Beach is 1.1 mi (1.7 km) away.
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
The house was perfect for our Easter family weekend, it's peaceful yet close to the beach. The house has absolutely everything you need and more, it's the best stocked kitchen we've ever seen in holiday accommodation. Our dog loved the big fenced front and back gardens and the fireplace was a big hit for us! It got chilly in the evening so we lit a fire and the house heated quickly and was so cosy. There's lots of books, games, literally everything you can think of is there, it's a real home away from home. The beds are very comfortable too.All in all, we would love to come back to The Mac Shak, it's lovely!
Our host was very accommodating. The location is wonderful. More than enough amenities and utilities, maybe too many..... Had a great time at The Mac Shak with the kookaburras.We would love to come back again.
Patrick S.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 11 January 2026
Thanks Patrick
We look forward to hosting you again.
All the best.
Scott
We had a great time at The Mac Shak. The house is really well appointed, with lots of helpful information for guests, plus games, dvds, books. The garden is completely enclosed and safe for dogs, our pup loved sniffing around and exploring, and our kids loved toasting marshmallows around the fire. I loved sitting on the deck in the morning, looking out at the trees and listening to the birds. It's a charming little place with lots of character. We would stay here again if we're in the area.
Verified traveller
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 11 October 2025
Thank you for your kind review, we loved hosting you and would be thrilled to have you stay with us again.
We had a great stay at the Mac Shack, thanks Scott. The house was clean and has lots of character and is close to the beautiful Macmasters Beach. We all felt so relaxed in the house and our dog, Evie, enjoyed her stay too.
Nicole F.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 9 January 2023
Hi Nicole
We are glad you enjoyed your stay and want to thank you for the way you left the house. The cleaner was very happy.
Cheers
Scott
Verified
8/10 Good
kate b.
23 January 2019
Wonderfully restful
We had a lovely time at the Mac Shack. It had everything we needed and our little dog especially enjoyed the yard. Thank you for a restful week.
Lovely cosy property. Communication was easy and everything we needed was there. Dog and kids loved it. Hoping we can stay again sometime! Very peaceful.
Ali d.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 13 July 2023
Thanks Ali
Glad you enjoyed your stay and hope to host you in the future.
Cheers
Scott
Very peaceful, tranquil setting. Loved the bird life and the bush setting. Great position - close to beaches and other entertainment.
Owners have thought of everything to make your stay as homely and comfortable as possible.
Highly recommend 😀
Diane C.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 20 February 2023
Thanks Di
And thank you for the great way you left the house
All the best
Cheers
Scott
Great place with everything you’d want on holiday and more! We had a wonderful stay - dogs had plenty of room and our son appreciated some drinks available! We loved the beach and ability to take dogs for walks, many walks. Everyone we met was easy going and friendly.
Thanks Scott!
James E.
Stayed 14 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 31 January 2023
Cheers James
Hope to host you again some time
Cheers
Scott
Everything a family and their fur babies could possibly need for a comfortable home away from home… and then some… all with a lovely quiet bush outlook, but still close to the beach.
The Mac Shack is clean, comfortable and quirky. It has a great kitchen, and is very well equipped. The view from the deck is fantastic and the extra touches such as chocolates on arrival are lovely. Thank you Scott.
Zoe W.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 25 November 2021
Thank you Zoe
We have tried to provide a different experience and I’m glad you enjoyed it
Please come back anytime
Cheers
Scott
We loved our stay at Macmasters. The house is beautiful and comfortable with a well appointed kitchen and a deck overlooking the garden and the bush beyond. 10min walk down the hill to the beach. The garden is fully fenced and was great for our dogs. We spent 3 weeks and feel refreshed and relaxed.
Ursula P.
Stayed 21 nights in Jan 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 25 January 2024
Thank you Ursula for your review.
We are really happy you enjoyed your stay and thank you for the fantastic way you left the house.
Cheers
Scott
Lovely bushland setting. Comfortable beds and good quality linen and towels. Lots of extras provided including essentials in the kitchen, tea and coffee, wine, shampoo/ conditioner and soap, aero guard, suncream. Plenty of dvds and games. Close to beach. Great property manager with good communication.
Fiona C.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 January 2025
Thank you for your kind review Fiona
And FYI we will be doing renovations during the year which should enhance the experience.
Hope to see you back.
Cheers Scott
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
SARAH G.
23 January 2018
Bursting with love and personality
Can't speak highly enough about this fantastic place. From the rustic kitchen and ample yard, to the quirky sombreros and nods to leisurely beers; the vast library of DVDs and board games; the crisp sheets and fluffy towels, and the cheeky visiting Kookaburra, there is just nothing that isn't completely special about this place. We enjoyed every minute of our stay and we wouldn't dream of staying anywhere else when we visit Macs.
SARAH G.
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2020
Thank you so much Sarah. Look forward to having you back anytime.
We stayed at MacShak for a second time after we had such a great time last January. We love MacMasters Beach and the house is great. We enjoyed the well appointed kitchen and the fact that our dogs were welcome. We spent a lot of time on the veranda overlooking the bush with large gumtrees. Cockatoos, kookaburras and king parrots came to visit every day. You can walk to a spot on the cliff top for an ocean sunrise. The beach is a stroll down the hill away. We had a fabulous time!
The Mac Shak is a lovely place that invites you to enjoy the owners 'memories' with its eclectic mix of old and new. photos of family members, art work, books and comfy beds. Beaches close by and bush in the backyard. The sun streaming through the trees in the morning lifts the spirit as you feed the 'family of Kookaburras' that came back each day, not to mention the 'scrub turkey' who wandered around like he didnt have a care in the world.......
Kathy B.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 6 April 2020
Hi Kathy
I’m glad you had the opportunity to get away from the crazy times we are going thru
Thank u for your comments
It helps explain what we are offering
Not the typical holiday accommodation but n escape from the hussle and bustle
All the best and stay healthy
Scott
The Mac Shack had everything we need for a family holiday. The kitchen is very well equipped (except a garlic press!) and there are lots of books and games. It was very comfortable and easy to live in. We loved that our little cavoodle could enjoy our beach holiday with us.
The walk back up from the beach is quite steep but its not far to drive. We have already re-booked - thank you!
Gillian S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 22 January 2023
Thanks Gillian and we look forward to having you back at the end of the year.
All the best for 2023.
Cheers
Scott
PS Will get a garlic press before you return.
This property was perfect for our needs and it was well equipped with everything. Our dog enjoyed the yard although I’m not sure that the dogs on either side enjoyed his company so much - but there’s nothing the owner can do about that. There is literally nothing in MacMasters so you do have to plan ahead a little as all shops are a drive away, but not far. A very relaxing holiday spot though - great walks (unfortunately not dog friendly as most as in national park) and beaches abound! Most beaches are dog friendly too in certain parts.
Kate D.
Stayed 14 nights in Jan 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 19 January 2021
Thanks Kate
Look forward to hosting you again and the cleaner was very appreciative of the excellent way you left the house.
Cheers
Scott
We’re so keen to come back to this place.
It was wonderfully well equipped in every way. We loved the layout of the place. It’s got a wonderful relaxed holiday vibe which was just what the doctor ordered. Cooking dinner on the back deck as the kookaburras entertained us was divine.
We have two boisterous kelpies. They had heaps of room to move and after wearing them out on the beach we felt very comfortable leaving them for hours during the day in the most secure yard.
The beds are comfortable. And the TV is a ripper. We couldn’t figure out the DVD and FOXTEL, so we just drank some more, played Cluedo and watched the bird life.
Mark P.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2020
Thanks Mark
We are so glad you enjoyed your stay and it would be a pleasure to have you back.
The cleaner also thanks you for the way you left the house.
All the best
Scott
We loved our stay at Mac Shack. It is a rustic home with eclectic touches. The kitchen was stocked with a range of basic spices. I loved that we could help ourselves to the spices and basic food and we were just asked to replace what we finished for the next guests. The kitchen was well equipped and the large oven and stove top was amazing. The air conditioner was most welcome on the hot days. There is no ceiling fans in two of the bedrooms but we took pedestal fans with us and slept well (there is one pedestal fan in the house already). The loft has a ceiling fan. We loved the bush outlook. The yard is dog friendly and fully fenced (beware of the small pond if your dog loves water!) Our dogs loved exploring the yard and laying on the deck. The beach is about a 15 minute walk or a 3 minute drive.
We had a fabulous family stay here, comfortable well equipped house, lovely deck among the trees and short walk to the beach. It had everything we needed, with great open plan kitchen and sitting area which flowed onto the deck. Nice touches on arrival were appreciated- chocolates, wine and beer. Would love to stay here again.
jane a.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 1 January 2023
Thank you Jane for your kind comments and, more particularly, the way you left the house. The Cleaners were very happy.
Have a great 2023.
Cheers Scott
Cute quirky property which gives you the best of the tranquil bush but only a short walk (through the bush) to the beach . Wonderful fireplace in winter; great kitchen and deck and a huge backyard for the dog to run. Scott is easily contacted and very helpful. Enjoy!
STEPHEN M.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022
About the host
Hosted by Scott Fullarton
Why they chose this property
As soon as you walk in, you will feel on holidays and all those pressures left behind will soon become a distant memories. Grab a cool drink or a cup of tea and sit on the deck, relax and listen to nature.