The Family Entertainer - with sweeping water views

Photo gallery for The Family Entertainer - with sweeping water views

A modern living room with a large sliding glass door leading to a balcony with a view of the sea. There are two white sofas and a dining table with chairs.
An aerial view of a coastal area with a beach, clear blue waters, and green hills.
A modern kitchen with white cabinetry, a dining area with a white table and chairs, and a view of the sea through large windows.
A modern living room with a grey sectional sofa, a small round table, and a TV on a wooden stand.
A bedroom with a bed, a ceiling fan, a nightstand, a lamp, and a view of the outdoors through a sliding door.

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful

Highlights

  • Made for relaxation
    Top-rated for comfort — guests feel right at home here.
  • Arcade/game room
    A rare find - fun for all ages with on-site arcade/game room.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Near Salamander Bay

Popular amenities

  • Balcony
  • Arcade/game room
  • Barbecue
  • Air-conditioning
  • Internet access
  • Washer/dryer

Explore the area

View map
Salamander Bay, New South Wales
  • Place, Salamander Bay
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Salamander Bay Beach
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, Nelson Bay Golf Club
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Airport, Newcastle, NSW (NTL-Williamtown)
    ‪31 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

6 bedrooms (sleeps 13)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Bedroom 3

1 King Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 5

2 Single Beds

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 3

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony

Add dates for prices

Similar properties

About the area

Salamander Bay

Salamander Bay, a neighbourhood in Salamander Bay, is home to this holiday home. Nelson Head Lighthouse and Point Stephens Lighthouse are local landmarks, and travellers looking to shop may want to visit Salamander Bay Square and West Nelson Bay. Toboggan Hill Park and Fly Point Marine Reserve are also worth visiting. Spend some time exploring the area's activities, including whale watching and birdwatching.
Map
Salamander Bay, New South Wales

What's nearby

  • Salamander Bay - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Salamander Bay Beach - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • d'Albora Marinas Nelson Bay - 8 min drive - 8.9 km
  • Nelson Bay Golf Club - 8 min drive - 9.2 km
  • West Nelson Bay - 9 min drive - 10.0 km

Getting around

  • Newcastle, NSW (NTL-Williamtown) - 28 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Satra Coffee Co. - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Subway - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪The Buoys At The Bay - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Bay Harbour Cafe - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪The Galley Kitchen - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The Family Entertainer - with sweeping water views pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at The Family Entertainer - with sweeping water views?

As of 10 November 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Family Entertainer - with sweeping water views on 16 November 2026 start from NZ$2,222, 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 Family Entertainer - with sweeping water views?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Family Entertainer - with sweeping water views?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Family Entertainer - with sweeping water views?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is The Family Entertainer - with sweeping water views located?

Located in Salamander Bay, this holiday home is within a 5-minute walk of Salamander Bay and Salamander Bay Beach. Beach and Tilligerry Nature Reserve are also within 2 miles (3 km).

Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 56 out of 76 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 15 out of 76 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 76 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 76 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 76 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.2/10

Communication

9.4/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy
It's a very comfortable place and the games room is great, especially for rainy days.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 21 October 2026
Hi Chris, Thank you so much for your lovely review! We're delighted to hear you found the property comfortable and enjoyed the games room. It's certainly a fantastic space to keep everyone entertained, especially on those rainy days! It was a pleasure hosting you, and we hope to welcome you back to beautiful Port Stephens again soon! Stay Port Stephens Team
Verified review

4/10 Poor

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great property for family gatherings. We loved the pool and ping pong tables (not the best paddles). Our poor rating is based on inability to fix the dishwasher which did not work and no resolution to fix it during our 3 night stay. Not great washing up for 10 people each meal. On request for some compensation the host denied.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 21 October 2026
Hi Annie, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We're pleased to hear you enjoyed the property and its facilities, particularly the pool and ping pong tables. However, we are disappointed to see that the property received a 2-star rating primarily due to the dishwasher not working during your stay. Unfortunately, appliances can occasionally break down unexpectedly, and while we understand the inconvenience this caused, it was a situation beyond our control. Our team made every effort to resolve the issue during your stay, contacting four different tradespeople, all of whom advised they were unavailable over the weekend. Despite this, we still arranged for our handyman to attend the property to investigate whether it was something he could repair. Since your departure, the dishwasher has been assessed by a technician, and a replacement part has been ordered to rectify the issue. While we completely understand your frustration, as outlined in our terms and conditions, refunds are not provided for unexpected appliance breakdowns. We do, however, make every reasonable effort to address maintenance issues as promptly as possible, as we did in this instance. We appreciate that washing dishes for a group of 10 was inconvenient, and we sincerely apologise for the disruption. However, we do feel our team made every effort to assist under the circumstances. Stay Port Stephens Team
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property fulfilled all our expectations with room for the 12 people. Pool table and table tennis a great addition. Only small problem was no light over the B-B-Q and as it was winter and dark trying to cook we used our phone lights. The sandy beach was a short walk away for a swim and cafe was also a short walk.I didn’t think the Website did the view justice as it was spectacular
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 11 October 2026
Dear Lesley, Thank you so much for your lovely review! We’re delighted to hear that the property exceeded your expectations and comfortably accommodated your group of 12. It’s wonderful to know you enjoyed the pool table, table tennis, and the fantastic location. We also appreciate your feedback regarding the BBQ lighting and will certainly look into this for future guests. We couldn't agree more about the spectacular views – they really are something special and even better in person! Thank you again for choosing to stay with us. We hope to welcome you and your family back to Port Stephens in the future. Warm regards, The Stay Port Stephens Team
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

A great weekend

Rating Details: The property manager was more than helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: A great house with everything we needed. The view was amazing.
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2026
Hi Donna, Thank you for taking the time to review the property, we are thrilled to hear you enjoyed the home. We hope to welcome you back to Port Stephens for a future stay. Stay Port Stephens Team
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great venue. Very comfortable
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Disliked: Location
Great big house suited our family well . Communication from stayz was excellent , house was nice and clean . We all enjoyed our weekend stay very much . Would very much recommend
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Fantastic home for a group

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Had fantastic weather so the views from the deck were spectacular! The home is large with the four main bedrooms massive, plenty of room for our group of eight. Snooker and Ping Pong tables were a bonus. Close to shops and the bowlo, well maintained, and would recommend for any group or family get together.
Response from VrboOwner on 4 May 2026
Hi David, Thank you for your great review. We’re so pleased to hear you enjoyed the spectacular deck views—especially with such fantastic weather during your stay. It’s wonderful to know the home suited your group so well, with plenty of space and those extra touches like the snooker and ping pong tables adding to the experience. We’re also glad you found the location convenient and the property well maintained. Thank you for recommending it to others—it means a lot. We’d love to welcome you back again for another group getaway in the future. Stay Port Stephens Team
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great views

Our family, from grand children to grandparents had a great stay exploring the Bay.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 16 November 2023
On behalf of the team at Stay Port Stephens, I would like to thank you for staying with us!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family entertainer

Very comfortable, awesome views, everything we needed.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 9 December 2024
Hi Stephen, Thank you for taking the time to review the property. We are thrilled to hear you enjoyed your stay. We hope to see you again in the future.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A fantastic weekend getaway. Made family memories here.

Easy. We were so pleased with the property. The view is spectacular and so convenient to local attractions
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Golf Trip Home Base

A great place for 8 mates to base themselves for a week long golf trip in the area. Heaps of room for all of us. Great facilities. Clean and comfortable. Amazing view of the bay.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 10 November 2025
Hi Steve, Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re so glad to hear the home was a great base for your golf trip and that you and your mates enjoyed the space, comfort, and beautiful bay views. It’s always a pleasure hosting groups who make the most of everything the area has to offer. We’d love to welcome you all back again for another stay in the future! Kind regards, The Stay Port Stephens Team
From a partner site

8/10 Good

Perfect house for a girls weekend away!

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was more than satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Great stay and lots of room for a lovely weekend away for the girls. Close to Rick steins for lunch and lots of cafes close by. Lots of room and bathrooms. Beautiful view. We were missing bin liners, cleaning products etc. there was a coffee machine but no pods unfortunately. A few of the basic necessities were missing but overall a fantastic weekend atayWould come back again.
Response from VrboOwner on 4 May 2026
Hi Sara, Thank you for your lovely review. We’re so pleased to hear you and the girls had a fantastic weekend away and enjoyed the space, multiple bathrooms, beautiful views, and the convenient location close to Rick Stein’s and local cafés. We also really appreciate your feedback regarding the missing items. This has been noted with our housekeeping team to ensure essentials like bin liners, cleaning products, and coffee supplies are properly stocked for future stays. Stay Port Stephens Team
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great big house for the family

The house is in great condition, great location, and fab views. Not missing much at all.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 20 July 2023
On behalf of the team at Stay Port Stephens, I would like to thank you for staying with us!
From a partner site

8/10 Good

Enjoyable stay at Salamander Bay

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was very clean. I was happy with the location. I was more than satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Same as above
Response from VrboOwner on 9 November 2024
Thank you for your review! We’re so glad to hear you had an enjoyable stay at Salamander Bay. We hope to welcome you back for another great visit soon!
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

A fantastic location 👏

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was more than happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Totally enjoyed the house and local area.
Response from VrboOwner on 1 August 2023
On behalf of the team at Stay Port Stephens, I would like to thank you for staying with us!
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Family Weekend

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: The accommodation was great for our family of grand parents, parents and children, especially in wet conditions. A light over the BBQ would be good for cooking at night.
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2025
Hi Alfred, We’re so pleased to hear the accommodation suited your whole family well, even with the wet weather. It’s lovely to know everyone was comfortable across the generations. We really appreciate your suggestion about adding a light over the BBQ — that’s a great idea and something we’ll definitely look into. Stay Port Stephens Team
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Great House

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: The house was perfect for our large family holiday. It had everything we needed and was a great location! We loved the games area and the expansive balconies with fabulous views.
Response from VrboOwner on 17 March 2025
Hi Dorothy, Thank you for the wonderful review, we are thrilled to hear your family enjoyed their stay at the property. We hope you made some ever lasting memories. Stay Port Stephens Stay Port Stephens
From a partner site

8/10 Good

Beautiful view and great amenities!

Rating Details: The property manager was adequately helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: It's a great property to stay in. Breathtaking view and plenty of room for large groups! Has all the facilities to keep everyone occupied.
Response from VrboOwner on 1 August 2023
On behalf of the team at Stay Port Stephens, I would like to thank you for staying with us!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

SPS

Great house for team of sailors. Lots of space.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 2 May 2024
Hi Jonathan thank you for staying at The Family Entertainer. I look forward to the your next visit for the sailing regatta!
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Absolute enjoyable stay at this amazing property

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was more than happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: This is a rarity! This large house has a 180-degree uninterrupted ocean view. It is well-presented with high-quality furniture. The kitchen is functionally designed and has all the cooking necessities. We enjoyed every single moment at this house...Highly recommended !
Response from VrboOwner on 23 October 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback, Mach! We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed the stunning 180-degree ocean views, the well-presented home, and the fully equipped kitchen. It’s fantastic to know you made the most of every moment. We’d love to welcome you back again soon! Kind regards, The Stay Port Stephens Team
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Friends holiday catch up

Great house, 6 girls all with their own bedrooms Beautiful views and sunny weather Kitchen suitable for our needs The road was just a tad difficult with with access to home from the main road Would recommend it to friends and family
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 6 June 2024
Thanks so much for sharing your feedback and experience with us. We hope to see you again soon.
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Stay Port Stephens 10-12 Jul

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was very clean. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Was a great stay for three days at this location. Everything was stress free and we really enjoyed coming back to a beautiful home each day after finishing work. Thanks!
Response from VrboOwner on 1 August 2023
Thank you for the great review! We can’t wait to have you back at Stay Port Stephens.
From a partner site

8/10 Good

Overall a wonderful property.

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was very clean. I was more than happy with the location. I was more than satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Very happy with the cleanliness and airiness of the property except for the entry which was confusing. We had a great time though.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful place

Michelle’s place was awesome! We really enjoyed ourselves, even though we were only there for two nights. We made the most of it. The place was perfect for the 10 of us. The ping pong table, the pool table, and even all the rooms were very cozy. Everyone who came had a great time. We did get a little out of hand the first night, and some neighbors complained about the noise, so we kept it quiet the second night. Overall, it was an amazing stay. Thank you for having us!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 29 October 2024
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that you and your group enjoyed all the amenities and felt cozy in the space. We appreciate you taking our call that evening and kindly adjusting the noise level for the following night. As part of our commitment to our neighborhood, we do have a no-noise policy to ensure everyone has a peaceful environment. We’re so glad you had an amazing stay, and we’d be delighted to welcome you back anytime!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy

Girls break

Well equipped and great view. Difficult in bathroom for older people as shower over bath.paper instuctions for stove etc would have been better thsn having to access phone
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 May 2025
Hi Phillip, Thank you for your feedback! We're so pleased to hear you enjoyed the well-equipped space and beautiful views. We appreciate your comments regarding the shower setup and appliance instructions—accessibility and ease of use are important to us. We'll certainly take your suggestions on board and look at adding printed instructions to make things more convenient for all guests. Stay Port Stephens
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback