With a nickname like the “land down under” and an expansive Outback as one of its primary calling cards, it’s easy to picture Australia as another world. But the universal mantra “home is where the heart is” could not ring truer than when in Oz. With the giant sandstone rock formation Uluru at its spiritual heart, the natural wonder of the Great Barrier Reef in its care, and unmatched beaches like Bondi and Whitehaven in its pocket, Australia offers more than a few havens to fall for.
Watsons Bay, Sydney, New South Wales
Michael Pallier, Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty
Waterfront living at its best: breathtaking harbor views complement this original Michael Suttor design in the heart of Watsons Bay. The home is a brilliant study in indoor-outdoor living, with high ceilings, a northerly terrace, and covered balcony making the most of every available inch of natural light and gust of sea breeze. In addition to en-suites throughout, the home features a gym, cellar, six-car garage, family-size pool, and meticulously-manicured gardens.
Château de Rêves, Gold Coast, Queensland
Vivian Yu, Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty
Long sandy beaches, peak surf spots, and cosmopolitan comforts make the Gold Coast home to some of Australia’s most sought-after real estate, and Château de Rêves is no exception. A premier waterfront property that includes 85 meters of frontage, this 4,000-square-foot masterpiece features seven bedrooms with ensuites, two studies, two kitchens, sky-high ceilings, contemporary finishes, and sustainable marine-grade technology. Your average day might include a round of tennis on your private court, a Turkish steam and massage, and a boat excursion from your front yard, rounded out by an aperitif from your wine cellar.
The White House, Cairns, Queensland
Paul Arthur, Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty
In Queensland, the Great Barrier Reef is at your doorstep. White sand, the crystal waters of the Coral Sea, and a beach-style design by Stephen Kidd make The White House your own seaside oasis. You’ll have seamless outdoor living thanks to sliding windows, constant pool access, and a ground floor made for entertaining. Fire up the outdoor grill and watch the waves roll in before jetting off to Dunk, Bedarra, or Hichinbrook Island to watch the sunset.
The Boulevard, Queensland, Queensland
Malcolm Li, Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty
With sweeping vistas and luxury finishes, this Moreton Bay property is a concrete coastal dream. Encompassing three levels of soaring ceilings and open-plan family rooms, this home boasts three bedrooms with en-suites, a gym, and a rooftop deck complete with gazebo for enjoying a beverage in view of the glistening bay. Whether cozying up to the gas fireplace during the winter or beating the heat with fully-automated air conditioning, you can rest easy in this beautiful retreat.
Coto De Casa, Sydney, New South Wales
Michael Pallier & Toby O’Neil, Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty
A nautical gem on the Pittwater that includes a generous waterfront license, Coto De Casa is a mariner’s paradise. Rigged for deep water boating, the property includes a boathouse and private dock, making ocean excursions an easy everyday affair. Inside offers relaxed living is at its finest, with sailing artifacts bringing the outdoors in. Entertain on the terrace on a warm day, and finish with a refreshing dip in your waterfront pool.
Once you’re settled in to an easygoing beach house on the edge of the Australia’s treasured coastlines, cities, and Outback, you’ll feel right at home.
