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Unique 2 bedroom riverside Boathouse in central Barwon Heads

Photo gallery for Unique 2 bedroom riverside Boathouse in central Barwon Heads

Lounge room
2 bedroom original Barwon Heads Boathouse
Dining
Lounge room
Kitchen

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Air-conditioning

Explore the area

View map
Barwon Heads, VIC
  • Place, Frank Ellis Reserve Beach
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, Barwon Heads Golf Club
    ‪19 min walk‬
  • Place, 13th Beach
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Airport, Melbourne, VIC (AVV-Avalon)
    ‪47 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 2

4 Single Beds

Main Bedroom

1 King Bed

1 bathroom

Main bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Unique 2 bedroom riverside Boathouse in central Barwon Heads

This historic 2 bedroom Barwon Heads Boathouse, “Waitemata” on Riverside Terrace, is the ultimate accomodation in an undeniably perfect location close to everything Barwon Heads has to offer.
The house is 30mtrs from the rivers edge. A side path allows you to discover the idyllic riverside ramp to launch your kyak or SUP.
Less than a 5 minute walk will get you to the main street Hitchcock Ave, river playground, kids playground and skate park, tennis courts, pubs, cafes, fine dining, boutique shops and spectacular beaches.

This lovingly restored, extended and modernised boathouse comfortably accommodates 6 guests. Main bedroom has a king bed and the second bedroom has 2 x bunk beds. In between is a family sized bathroom with Euro laundry with washing machine and dryer. A modern well equipped kitchen and living and dining area provide all the comforts for a relaxing stay.
East/ North facing deck and courtyard with outdoor dining and BBQ. Fully enclosed premises.

“Waitemata’ is one of the 61 original architect designed boathouses that once lined the western bank of the Barwon River from 1905 to 1936. It was moved to its current site on Riverside Terrace in 1970.
“Waitemata” is Maori for 'Sparkling Waters’ - an apt name for this unique accomodation that’s just perfect short stroll from the sparkling waters of the Barwon River estuary and ocean beyond.

Features:
Wifi
Wonderboom bluetooth speaker
Coffee machine
Enclosed yard
Gas fireplace in lounge room
Split System Air con/heater in lounge room and main bedroom
Ceilings fans in Lounge room and Bedrooms
Wall heater in bedroom 2
Electric blanket on King bed
Smart TV in lounge room
TV's in main bedroom and bedroom 2
Highchair
Linen and bath towels
BBQ
Outdoor shower
Note: This is strictly a No Party House- No noise after 10pm on weekends and 9pm on weekdays. We do not take school leavers bookings.
Pets- Dogs only, no more than 2 as per council regulation. Must be toilet trained and not allowed on furniture. Must not be left outside barking as per local noise ordinance. No cats due to allergies.

Overview
From here you can meander through the streets of Barwon Heads to where the renowned Barwon River meets the sea, head across the bridge to Raffs Beach, Ocean Grove or walk around the World Heritage Listed Bluff to 13th Beach. Hitchcock Ave has a broad selection of cafes, bakery, takeaway, pub restaurants and lifestyle shopping. The broader Bellarine peninsula has plenty to offer and is perfect for holidays or a weekend away (only 1.5hrs from Melbourne). For golfers the world class Barwon Heads Golf Course and Thirteenth Beach Golf Course minutes drive away are ranked 30 and 32 respectively in Australia's top 100 golf courses. Also: Wineries and Breweries Joy Flights at Barwon Heads Airport Adventure Park- Victoria's biggest water theme park is 12km or 15mins drive away.

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House Rules

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

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
Strictly No Party House. No school leavers.
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 25 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
Dogs only no more than 2 No cats due to allergies
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

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 Party House. No school leavers.
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
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

About the area

Barwon Heads

Located in Barwon Heads, this holiday home is on a river. Lake Connewarre Wildlife Reserve and Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Warbird Air Adventures and Bellarine Adventure Golf. Travelling with kids? Consider Adventure Park Geelong, or check out an event or a game at Australian Skydive.
View more Holiday homes in Barwon HeadsOpens in a new window
Map
Barwon Heads, VIC

What's nearby

  • Frank Ellis Reserve Beach - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Barwon Heads Golf Club - 19 min walk - 1.6 km
  • Raffs Beach - 19 min walk - 1.6 km
  • 13th Beach - 5 min drive - 1.9 km
  • Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary - 6 min drive - 2.3 km

Getting around

  • Marshall Station - 20 min drive
  • Melbourne, VIC (AVV-Avalon) - 45 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Beach Terrace Cafe - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪The Mex - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪The Olive Pit - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Barwon Heads Hotel - ‬11 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Unique 2 bedroom riverside Boathouse in central Barwon Heads pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 25 kg per pet.

How much does it cost to stay at Unique 2 bedroom riverside Boathouse in central Barwon Heads?

As of 30 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Unique 2 bedroom riverside Boathouse in central Barwon Heads on 18 May 2026 start from AU$294, 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 Unique 2 bedroom riverside Boathouse in central Barwon Heads?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Unique 2 bedroom riverside Boathouse in central Barwon Heads?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Unique 2 bedroom riverside Boathouse in central Barwon Heads?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Unique 2 bedroom riverside Boathouse in central Barwon Heads located?

This family-friendly Barwon Heads holiday home is located on a river, within a 10-minute walk of Lake Connewarre Wildlife Reserve and Frank Ellis Reserve Beach. Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary and Raffs Beach 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. 68 out of 74 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 74 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 74 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 74 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 74 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julie E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quiet location, close to town and river/sea. Lovely restored boathouse with all you need to stay in and cook and close to loads of places to eat out if you want that too. Clean with a great vibe and cherished by the owners - you can tell they love this place too.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason B.

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

Lovely stay

Second stay here; great little spot.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pamela T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A great little pet-friendly property and very close to a beautiful park with lovely walking tracks. Also, walking distance to the main street of the village, which has fantastic boutiques and restaurants. The cottage is very well equipped and very comfortable. We would love to return.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pamela O.

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

Location Location Location

-Short walk to shops, restaurants, park, playgrounds and beach-Quiet street-Great place to relax-Highly recommend.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kylie N.

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

Lovely quite location

Great location with a short walk to beach and cafes
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gavin H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A very welcoming, secure property for both us and our family pooch. House has plenty sunlight and fresh air entering it, but is easily closed up to be heated or cooled. Front and side yards are totally dog secure so we could relax whist she roamed.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bettina C.

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

Winter getaway

We thoroughly enjoyed our getaway. Fantastic location, a very easy walk down the Main Street. A beautiful cosy home, the gas heater kept the house toasty warm at night. Secure yard so our dog was safe and enjoyed his stay too. Will definitely book again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David w.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was awesome. House was as pictured. Clean and well presented
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susan C.

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

Fabulous position and stylish property

We had a great stay here. The renovated boat house is in a great position and beautifully appointed. The kingsize bed is extremely comfortable and it was a very relaxing stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Simon M.

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

Perfect place for a Couples short getaway

Delightful
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Hannah B.

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

Great Family stay

Perfect location for family. Easy walking distance to restaurants for dinner, the pier for fishing and playground for the kids. We really enjoyed how cosy and warm this house was. Everything is there to feel like you are at home. We loved our time away here.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Margaret B.

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

Great place to stay

We really enjoyed our stay. The house was very clean, very comfortable, and well set up. In a nice quiet location and our dog enjoyed it too. Communication with the manager was great. Thoroughly recommend this property.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Michael J.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness

Great location lovely house

The house is located in a lovely quiet area with a easy walk into town. The house has a lovely feel and has all the amenities you need. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would recommend it as a lovely place to relax.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cath G.

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

Cosy house

Our family of 4 loved the boathouse. It is cosy and has everything you need. It’s also in a great location.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Andrea D.

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

Clean & Comfortable

Clean, comfortable with a good bed.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Adrienne C.

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

Relaxing

Great location. Calming environment.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

HELENA G.

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

The Boathouse

Great property, neighbourhood and close to beach and shops. Plus the dogs loved it. All over fantastic holiday.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Loren M.

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

Perfect For Us

The location & the accommodation were perfect. Loved the sun filled rooms & enclosed yard for our two Westies. The house was extremely well equipped and we thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of our stay.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gary B.

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

Mr Bolan

Great place, Great spot My wife and I will definitely be coming back
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ursula M.

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

Great place to relax and rejuvenate

Perfect for a simple, easy and comfortable stay with my husband and our dog. Great location and we were fortunate with lovely weather too…The enclosed courtyard, which wrapped around the boathouse, was perfect for our dog to wander around and created a sense of serenity and calm for us. Would love to come back here another time.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Glennis P.

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

A Perfect Bolthole in Barwon Heads

This home is perfect for a couple. Everything is cleverly designed so that you have everything that you need. Great use of indoor and outdoor space. Fantastic location - easy walk to the shops and the river for the dog to run around. Super easy check in and communication with Jenni
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Linda M.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Short break

Excellent location in a quiet residential area. The house was well-equipped and the overall condition was standard.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christopher B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely, quiet location, a little concerned about
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Caroline K.

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

Barwon Beauty

Always looking for a clean, contemporary, comfortable and well equipped stay that will allow us to travel with our dog. This little boat house hit the spot perfectly. Located in a quiet tree lined street right near the river and within walking distance to the high street and ocean beach, it allowed for a chilled and relaxed few days with our fur kid. The house was clean and well equipped, allowing us to cook some meals at home and generally relax. It had a good solid dog proof fence.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

GEOFF W.

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

Stayz @ the boat house riverside

In a word 'excellent!' Very spacious accommodation with plenty of room for us to store our things (not always the case where the owners have often filled every nook and cranny with their stuff). Everything has been thought of which means it is a lovely place to have a holiday break and it is easy to look after. The enclosed yard is wonderful because we could let pooch out side any time and feel confident that he would be safe. Thanks Jenni
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2019

About the host

Hosted by Jenni O'Callaghan

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