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“Charlie Bates Cottage”

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Heritage listed early Settlers Cottage with great sea views
North facing veranda
Watch the sunset through the  pretty Bougainvillea on verandah
Enjoy the peacefulness from the front verandah
Queen bedroom with ocean views

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Air-conditioning
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue

Explore the area

View map
Penneshaw, SA
  • Place, Penneshaw Penguin Centre
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Kangaroo Island Farmers Market
    ‪12 min walk‬
  • Place, Kangaroo Island Gateway Visitor Information Centre - Penneshaw
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Airport, Kangaroo Island, SA (KGC-Kingscote)
    ‪40 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

“Charlie Bates Cottage”

Charlie Bates Cottage is an original stone settlers cottage (circa 1905) and an iconic part of Penneshaw's history.
Sitting high on the hill proudly keeping watch over beautiful Hog Bay and the quaint township of Penneshaw.
Under new ownership since October 2021 and faithfully restored.

Once the only homestead on a large landholding in Penneshaw, the cottage still remains today even though the town has been been significantly populated....in Kangaroo Island terms that is!
Nestled on a large, sloping block she boasts magnificent ocean views, is conveniently located only 2 minutes from the Sealink ferry terminal and a very short walk to the safe swimming beach at the end of the road.

Charlie's has been lovingly restored and refurbished to provide our guests with all the conveniences you need to experience a truly memorable holiday.
We offer the perfect base for couples and friends travelling together so you can experience the very best that Kangaroo Island has to offer from the comfort of somewhere that feels like home.

A modern extension to the original settler's cottage consists of a fully equipped kitchen including a full size fridge/freezer, microwave, quality kitchenware, a dining area with ocean views, laundry (with washing machine and clothes dryer), spacious heated bathroom with separate shower and clawfoot bath. These facilities and our wonderful location combine to make this unique piece of Kangaroo Island's history the ideal base for your getaway.

Perhaps you are looking for the ultimate romantic getaway, somewhere to share a special weekend away, propose to your partner or a charming and private honeymoon destination.

Grab beach towels and head off on an easy 3 minute walk to the end of the street to spend the day having a fantastic family experience swimming and building sandcastles on one of the safest swimming beaches on the Island, Hog's Bay. Dolphins frequent the bay and you might be lucky enough to spot a seal swimming in the waters around the jetty.

Have a day off from touring and watch a selection on great movies from our extensive DVD library, read a book, play board games or simply relax on the verandah with your favourite glass of wine and watch the sun set over the ocean or the comings and goings of the ferries..

You will delight in the opportunity to view the kangaroos, wallabies that frequent the lawns around the cottage at night. An intimate wildlife experience for all of our guests.

The Penneshaw Penguin Centre is located just a short walk around the bay and provides a fantastic opportunity to observe the local Fairy Penguins in their natural habitat and gain an insight into the life of these beautiful and mysterious seabirds.

Fire up the BBQ on the verandah and enjoy 180 degree views with your dinner, lunch or breakfast.

A picture book seaside village, Penneshaw is the ideal location for your stay on Kangaroo Island. Superb swimming beaches, stunning scenery, fantastic fishing, abundant wildlife and a well serviced town centre are just some of the attractions Penneshaw has to offer.

Just at the end of the road from Charlie's, Hog's Bay Beach is a great place to swim, see dolphins or the occassional seal at play and has excellent grassed BBQ facilities located near the Penguin Information Centre and ferry terminal. The centre is open most nights for tours featuring Penneshaw's cutest residents, the Little Fairy Penguins. Tammar wallabies roam the streets in the evening, stopping at Charlie's for a munch on the lawn or some fruit.

The Penneshaw Hotel offers quality meals with ocean views, or after a hard days touring if you don't feel like cooking or eating out, there are several take away options including a pizza and fish and chips.
Pack a picnic and stop at Chapman River on your way back from Cape Willoughby Lighthouse, sample wines and local produce at False Cape and Dudley Wineries or fish for the famed KI King George Whiting on the jetty. What ever your idea of the perfect Kangaroo Island holiday you're sure to find it at Charlies in Penneshaw.

With so much to see and do in the Penneshaw area, you could be tempted to never leave, but if you decide to discover everything the Island has to offer, all the Islands attractions are within an easy day's driving return trip from Charlie's. To ensure your safety, when planning day trips make sure you allow enough time to return home before dusk, as this when many of the Island's wildlife species become active.

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
Babies negotiable, not suitable for children
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Events

No events allowed
Strictly no parties or events
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Pets

No pets allowed
Small Pets negotiable
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 9654031
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
Note from host: Strictly no parties or events
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

About the area

Penneshaw

Located in Penneshaw, this cottage is by the sea. Sealink Ferry Terminal and Dudley Cellar Door are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Baudin Conservation Park and Dudley Conservation Park. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking, scuba diving and snorkelling nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking.
Map
Penneshaw, SA

What's nearby

  • beach near Lloyd Collins Reserve - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Penneshaw Penguin Centre - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Kangaroo Island Farmers Market - 12 min walk - 1.0 km
  • Kangaroo Island Gateway Visitor Information Centre - Penneshaw - 3 min drive - 1.5 km
  • Kingscote Tidal Pool - 48 min drive - 77.2 km

Getting around

  • Kangaroo Island, SA (KGC-Kingscote) - 39 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Penneshaw Hotel - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Hogbay Saloon - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪Millie Mae's Pantry - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Fat Beagle Coffee Shop - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Fire and Smoke Ki - ‬14 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is “Charlie Bates Cottage” pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at “Charlie Bates Cottage”?

As of 11 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at “Charlie Bates Cottage” on 26 May 2026 start from NZ$243, 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 “Charlie Bates Cottage”?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at “Charlie Bates Cottage”?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at “Charlie Bates Cottage”?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is “Charlie Bates Cottage” located?

Situated by the sea, this cottage is within a 15-minute walk of Sealink Ferry Terminal and Kangaroo Island Farmers Market. Baudin Conservation Park and Kangaroo Island Gateway Visitor Information Centre - Penneshaw are also within 1 mile (2 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

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. 40 out of 43 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 43 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 43 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 43 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 43 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

8/10 Good

JD M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A nice cottage at a convenient location.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 January 2026
Thanks James :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gale H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful place to stay - it lacks for nothing. Beatifically rustic. Excellent communication from owner. Would highly recommend.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Irene T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a lovely stay in Penneshaw with a lovely beach view. The location was great and so close to the ferry (for an easy arrival/departure)
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 13 October 2025
Thanks Irene was a pleasure to host you :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Russ M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had the best time on Kangaroo Island and it was all set up by staying in this beautiful cottage. It has everything and more! Clean, comfortable, and very spacious! Well definitely book again!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 February 2026
Thanks Russ :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dianne F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Needs internet.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Yvette C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing location. Beautiful little cottage. Enjoyed our stay on KI.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 3 September 2025
Thanks Yvette :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Enjoyed our time here. Great view easy to get around. Comfortable and quiet.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 26 August 2025
Thanks Andrew :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kirsteen M.

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

Our stay in Penneshaw

We had a lovely stay at the cottage.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 15 January 2025
Glad you enjoyed :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maggie D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cottage was pleasantly presented in a style suitable for building. The grounds could be developed further to provide a private outdoor area.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 September 2025
Thanks Maggie :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David and Sue R.

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

Fantastic historic cottage

Lovely and comfortable with a great mix of new and old
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 19 October 2024
Thank-you :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

geoff g.

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

History combined with modern comfort

Well equipped and very comfortable house that captures the history and essence of Penneshaw. Ideally suited for mixed adult group.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 3 June 2025
Thanks Geoff :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alison R.

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

Great position & Very Cute

Gorgeous cottage with lovely views and close to town and beach and bushwalking.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 5 January 2025
Thank you Alison :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carol D.

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

Charming cottage with history

A lovely restored cottage that has a great open fire place and everything for a chilled , quiet getaway.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 22 November 2023
Thanks Carol :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eric P.

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

Lovely getaway

All you need is here to relax and enjoy. A wonderful home with sea views. Try the Lavender Farm scones and a visit to Dudley Wines is a must.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 24 March 2025
Thanks Eric yes the Lavender farm is a great place to eat and Dudley Wines is spectacular!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Wendy E.

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

Charlie Bates cottage

This cottage is gorgeous. Very well equipped we wanted for nothing. The view is spectacular and so handy to the ferry and local supermarket.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 6 July 2025
Thanks Wendy :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bill C.

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

The best place in Peneshaw

Wonderful little heritage house. Beautiful views. Excellent furnishings and appliances.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 25 August 2024
Thank you Bill :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pauline F.

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

Restful and idyllic escape

The ambience is welcoming and comfortable. Fantastic beds and love the visting wildlife. We didnt want to leave! Thank you!
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 April 2025
Thanks Pauline :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jacqui

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

Charles bates cottage

Absolutely fabulous, felt like a home away from home. Had everything you needed and more. Highly recommend staying here.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 30 April 2023
Thanks Jacqui so glad you enjoyed your stay :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Wonderful stay and location

We had a great stay at the cottage - it was cozy, comfortable, kitchen was great with appreciated extras when travelling (things like cling wrap and food containers), bath was fab and the home was well furnished. We enjoyed some of the cafes in Penneshaw, the penguin tour at night, the local beach, walks and also exploring further afield.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 20 October 2023
Thanks for your wonderful feedback Julia :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Athena & David H.

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

Gorgeous property in a gorgeous town

Cottage even better than I expected. Beautifully decorated and has everything you need. Comfortable bed and shower.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 3 September 2023
Thanks Athena & David :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Scott M.

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

Lazy Long Weekend

The house was well presented with everything there we needed for our stay. Close to bushwalking and the town it was perfect
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 14 June 2023
Thanks Scott :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

warren r.

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

cottage on the,hill

nice comfortable close to town
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 13 June 2023
Thanks Warren :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

joseph c.

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

charming cottage

Great property, well fitted out with everything you need and a very charming cottage. Host was fabulous and very helpful.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 26 February 2024
Thanks Joseph :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David H.

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

Quirky cottage

Great time on unexpected island
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 21 June 2022
Thanks David :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ron H.

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

Everything we needed

Great location. Well appointment ammenities.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 4 July 2024
Thanks Ron :)

About the host

Hosted by Sue Jones

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Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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