Smiths Beach, located on Phillip Island in Victoria, is a picturesque coastal suburb known for its stunning beaches, laid-back lifestyle, and family-friendly community. The area attracts residents seeking a balance of natural beauty and modern conveniences, making it an ideal setting for both permanent living and holiday retreats. This article delves into the best residential areas in Smiths Beach, highlighting their unique features, housing options, and market insights.
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Smiths Beach Village
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Smiths Beach Village is the hub of the suburb, offering easy access to the beach and numerous amenities. It features a blend of modern homes, holiday rentals, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Characteristics of the Smiths Beach Village
* Culture: Strong beach culture with various outdoor activities, art festivals, and surf competitions.
* Transportation: Well-connected by public transport and local roads; walking distance to most amenities.
* Services: Cafés, shops, surf schools, and a convenience store.
* Environment: Family-friendly and relaxed, ideal for beach lovers.
Housing Options in the Smiths Beach Village
Modern beach houses, townhouses, and holiday units.
Average Home Prices in the Smiths Beach Village
* Buying: $600,000 – $950,000
* Renting: $1,200 – $1,800/month
Surf Beach
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Just a short distance from Smiths Beach, Surf Beach offers a more tranquil atmosphere while still being close to local attractions. This area is particularly appealing for families and those seeking larger properties.
Characteristics of the Surf Beach
* Culture: Peaceful with a strong sense of community; hosting local events and gatherings.
* Transportation: Public transport available; car recommended for exploring Phillip Island.
* Services: Local shops, schools, and recreational parks nearby.
* Environment: Quiet and serene, perfect for nature lovers.
Housing Options in the Surf Beach
Single-family homes, larger blocks, and some rental properties.
Average Home Prices in the Surf Beach
* Buying: $550,000 – $900,000
* Renting: $1,000 – $1,500/month
Cowes
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Cowes is one of the most popular towns on Phillip Island, offering a vibrant waterfront and a range of amenities. It's ideal for those who appreciate a bustling atmosphere with plenty of social opportunities.
Characteristics of the Cowes
* Culture: Bustling with cafés, restaurants, and leisure activities; hosts a range of seasonal events.
* Transportation: Well-serviced by public transport; a short drive to Smiths Beach.
* Services: Supermarkets, medical facilities, and schools located centrally.
* Environment: Lively and diverse, with something for everyone.
Housing Options in the Cowes
Seaside apartments, beachfront houses, and traditional cottages.
Average Home Prices in the Cowes
* Buying: $650,000 – $1,200,000
* Renting: $1,500 – $2,200/month
Newhaven
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Newhaven offers a quiet residential lifestyle with beautiful natural surroundings. It's perfect for those looking for spacious living and a friendly community feel.
Characteristics of the Newhaven
* Culture: Relaxed and welcoming; promotes outdoor activities such as walking and cycling.
* Transportation: Good access to local transport; bike trails available for recreation.
* Services: A few local shops and parks; larger amenities in nearby Cowes.
* Environment: Tranquil and safe, ideal for families.
Housing Options in the Newhaven
Large family homes, some new developments, and land for sale.
Average Home Prices in the Newhaven
* Buying: $500,000 – $850,000
* Renting: $1,000 – $1,400/month
Rhyll
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Rhyll is a charming coastal community known for its natural beauty and close-knit community. Ideal for retirees or those looking for a peaceful retreat.
Characteristics of the Rhyll
* Culture: Rich in natural wildlife; popular for fishing, kayaking, and relaxation.
* Transportation: Limited public transport; a car is essential for commuting.
* Services: Local store and cafés; nearby attractions in Cowes.
* Environment: Calm and serene, appealing to nature enthusiasts.
Housing Options in the Rhyll
Cottages, beach homes, and some heritage properties.
Average Home Prices in the Rhyll
* Buying: $450,000 – $750,000
* Renting: $800 – $1,200/month
Granite Island
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Granite Island offers a unique living experience with exclusive properties situated near the water. Residents enjoy breathtaking views and a luxurious lifestyle.
Characteristics of the Granite Island
* Culture: Affluent community with a focus on exclusive living and outdoor recreation.
* Transportation: Limited public transport; most residents own vehicles.
* Services: High-end facilities and access to nature reserves.
* Environment: Elegant and serene, ideal for those seeking a retreat.
Housing Options in the Granite Island
Luxury beachfront homes and designer properties.
Average Home Prices in the Granite Island
* Buying: $1,000,000 – $2,500,000
* Renting: $2,500 – $4,000/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Smiths Beach:
The best areas to live in Smiths Beach include Smiths Beach Village, Surf Beach, Cowes, Newhaven, Rhyll, and Granite Island.
Surf Beach and Newhaven are recommended for families due to their larger homes and community-focused environment.
Rhyll and Newhaven are known for more affordable housing options compared to Cowes and Granite Island.
Smiths Beach has good local transport connections, but owning a car is advisable to explore the island thoroughly.
Cowes offers a variety of amenities, including supermarkets, medical facilities, schools, and a vibrant dining scene.
Yes, Smiths Beach has a strong community culture, with numerous local events and activities throughout the year.
Housing options range from modern beach houses and townhouses to luxury homes and quaint coastal cottages.
Rental prices in Smiths Beach vary widely, with averages from $800 to $2,500 per month depending on the area and property size.
Yes, there are several primary schools and childcare facilities in and around Smiths Beach, particularly in Cowes.
Phillip Island offers a range of activities including surfing, fishing, hiking, wildlife watching, and access to nature reserves.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Smiths Beach:
Smiths Beach, with its blend of stunning coastal scenery and a relaxed lifestyle, provides a range of appealing residential options. From the vibrant community of Smiths Beach Village to the tranquil surroundings of Rhyll and the luxury offerings at Granite Island, there is something for everyone. Whether you're a first-home buyer, a growing family, or seeking a peaceful coastal retreat, Smiths Beach and its surrounding areas have the properties and amenities to meet your needs. The unique charm of this region, coupled with the strong community spirit, makes it a desirable location for many seeking the ultimate in coastal living.
About the Author
Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.