FAQ * Thinking of booking your next secluded accommodation? Find useful information and answers here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you are thinking about booking your next accommodation at Seaside Retreat or just checking out our retreat, you will find additional information and answers in our FAQ here.
This should help in facilitating your upcoming stay with us.
And don’t forget, if you have any further questions feel free to Contact Us.

Topics and questions of interest:
Bookings and Deposit Questions
Payment Policy
Cancellation Policy
General Questions
Food
Comfort
Phone, Internet Connectivity and Casual Entertainment
Health and Safety
Animals and Pets

Bookings and Deposit Questions

Do we need to book?

Bookings are essential prior to your arrival date. We’d also like to make things just right ahead of your stay.

Do we need to pay a deposit?

Yes. To secure a booking, a 35% deposit is required at the time of checkout (Whether paying by Credit Card or PayPal.)
The balance of your booking is charged to the same card (or PayPal account) approximately 14 days prior to your arrival date.
Bookings longer than two nights during peak times need to be paid in full 7 days prior to arrival.

What happens if we stay shorter than the booked period?

If at any time during your stay, you decide to spend less time than booked, the full cost of the entire stay is payable.

Now that we have booked. Then what?

As soon as your booking is securely processed through your chosen payment method (Credit Card or PayPal) you will automatically receive an email notification confirming your booking details on your entered email address.

We have booked but haven't received an email confirmation.

If you do not receive your booking confirmation email within a few minutes please check your spam or junk folder. If you still cannot find the email, please contact us on +61 419 933 445. Moreover and to ensure that Seaside Retreat emails are delivered to your inbox please add us to your safe senders list.

How do we get to the Retreat?

Directions from Taree
From the Pacific Highway take the southern off ramp to Taree and turn east toward Old Bar Beach. Approximately 7km along Old Bar road, turn left onto Manning Point road.
The first bridge takes you onto Oxley Island and the second bridge takes you onto Mitchells Island.
Approximately 9km after crossing the second bridge, turn right onto Sandridge road and look for the Seaside Retreat signs on the left at approximately 2km.

How do we access the Retreat?

The main access to the retreat is via the electrically operated gate on Sandridge Road. You will receive specific access details via email prior to your arrival.

Now that we're inside the retreat, how do we find our Cottages?

After you enter through the main gate, turn left on Main Drive and continue past the tennis court and pool on your left past the Office.

Bluegum Cottage
Just past the office turn right and within about 20 metres you will see Bluegum Cottage on the right side of the road.

Banksia Cottage
After you pass the office turn right past Bluegum Cottage where you will come to a fork, follow the Banksia sign by taking the right side of the fork and you will arrive at Banksia Cottage on the right side of the road.

Paperbark Cottage
After you pass the office turn right past Bluegum Cottage where you will come to a fork, take a left at the fork and continue until you arrive at Paperbark Cottage.

Check-in Requirements

You must be over the age of 18 and a valid credit card is required when the booking is made.

Check-in and Check-out

Check-in times: 2 pm to 10 pm 7 days. If you plan to arrive after 10 pm please call us.
Check-out time: By 10 am. Late check-outs up to midday may be allowed for an additional $15 per hour or part thereof.

Large Groups

Currently the total capacity of our retreat is up to 14 guests spread across the three cottages.
Paperbark is our largest cottage with 2 bedrooms and one living room and it can accomodate up to 6 guests.

If you are a large group, say a few families on a weekend adventure, a wedding or a business conference then we advise you to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
For this you can use our secure online booking system by checking each cottage’s calendar for available dates and book each Cottage individually. If this is too much to get around or handle then you have the option to call us on 0419 933 445 or email us on bookings@seasideretreat.com.au with your reservation details and we will do everything we can to accommodate you and your guests according to available vacancies.

You can also forward us your booking details via the Contact Us Form.

Payment Policy

What payment methods are accepted?

We currently accept PayPal and credit cards.
If you are paying with PayPal, please make sure that your PayPal billing account address is verified.
GST is inclusive with the total price, as expressed on the Checkout page and the Tax Invoice.

Cancellation Policy

Seaside Retreat Cancellation Policy

If more than twenty (30) days notice is given, your deposit will be refunded less $35 cancellation fee and any associated bank fees.

If a notice is given between fifteen (15) and thirty (30) days, your deposit will be forfeited.

If you cancel your booking with less than fifteen (15) days notice, no refund is issued and the full cost of the entire booking will be forfeited.

Shorter than Booked Stay or no-shows
If at any time during your stay, you decide to spend less time than the booked duration, the full cost of your entire stay is payable and no refunds will be issued.
Moreover, early departures or cancellations due to inclement weather are fully chargeable.
In the event of a no-show (i.e. you neither use nor cancel your reservation), a fee equivalent to the value of the entire stay will be incurred.

General Questions

What's the difference between our cottages and typical cabins?

The cottages at Melaluca Seaside Retreat beautifully merge rustic charm with modern amenities, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the bush and the Tasman Sea. They provide a cozy, homely environment equipped with contemporary comforts, ideal for guests who wish to enjoy both the serene forest and the captivating seaside. Conversely, cabins typically offer a more basic, immersive outdoor experience, often found in more remote wilderness areas.

How far is the Retreat from the nearest town?

Seaside Retreat is only 4 km from Manning Point on the Manning River. Manning Point is only a small village but provides many facilities to enhance your holiday.

Can I fish from the shore close to the Retreat if I bring my fishing rod?

Of course. If fishing is your passion then this is your destination. Bring your fishing gear and have a relaxing day casting that reel. Also the Manning River offers a great opportunity to catch a big one too. Bait as well as fishing licences can be obtained at the stores listed here under Fishing.

Is there a place to sail, boat or waterski?

Sailing is popular on the Manning River because of its long stretches of wide smooth water and gentle breezes. For those with their own boat, the boat ramp provides easy access to the Manning River, with around 150 km of navigable waterways as well as access through the bar to the Tasman. Directly across the river is Harrington with clubs, restaurants, shops and cafes. Manning Valley River Cruises and Harrington River Cruises operate from the Manning Point jetty providing a variety of day and evening cruises on the river, as well as a service to Harrington

Love a 4x4 adventure. What are my options?

4WD access to the beach is available at the Manning Point Reserve on Mitchell’s island. The wide sandy beach is a great place for experiencing the feel of driving on sand with very little bumps and where you are free to do as you please. The sand is quite soft though so it would be a good idea to bring a shovel and logs. You can pick up a Seven day beach permit or a Yearly pass from the Manning Point General Store located at 97 Main Road, Manning Point.

Any interesting places to see, visit and enjoy a day out?

The commercial centre for the Manning Valley is Taree and is only 25 min away from the retreat. Taree is quite a large town with several shopping malls and specialty stores in addition to all the companies and organisations to support the 47,000+ population of the valley. Further up the valley are many smaller towns, historical sites and National Parks climbing up into the surrounding forests and farmland with many craft stores and cafes. Only a short drive from the retreat can be found many vineyards and boutique wineries providing regular wine tasting and public sales. On the way back from Taree, there are a number of State Forests and tourist areas around Old Bar Beach and Saltwater Lagoon.

Food

Do we need to bring lots of food with us?

Really it’s your choice. To get you going, we provide a start-up complimentary breakfast basket for the first day for 2 people.
The cottages are fully self-contained and it is anticipated that most guests will bring their own food from home for an extra-personalised cooking experience. However, an extensive range of food and provisions is available from the stores and restaurants nearby.

The Manning Point General Store is only a 5 min drive from the retreat. A Coles supermarket is located about 15 min away at Old Bar Beach village which is open until 8 or 9 pm every day. Take away food is also available from the General Store Ph: (02) 6553 2665 and the Bowling Club bistro at Manning Point.

The General Store sells everything from takeaway food (fish and chips, pizza etc.) to petrol, alcohol, coffee and general household items such as bread and milk.
Across the road at the marina, the Waterbird café/restaurant has great meals for lunch and dinner however they are currently closed due to damage from the recent floods.

The Manning Point Bowling club offers visitors all the usual club hospitality and service including the Brighton Bistro.

Keep in mind that Mitchells Island is the centre of the oyster industry on the Manning, and fresh oysters and seafood are always available from a number of farmers.

A short drive to Old Bar Beach (Approx. 15 min from the retreat) finds a number of other places to eat. Located at Old bar is a bakery, Coles, Thai food, as well as “Flow Bar” which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner on most days, with live bands as entertainment on some nights (For more information you can call them on (02) 6557 4224).

A little further away in Taree (Approx. 30 min from the retreat) finds a number of other places to eat and can find almost every type and style of restaurant found in any large town ranging from McDonald’s and KFC to Thai, Italian and Japanese, in addition to a number of different club restaurants and cafés.

Do we need to bring cooking utensils, pots, pans etc.?

No unless you cannot leave home without your favourite pot and cooking pan.
For your ultimate comfort, each cottage is fully equipped with all cooking utensils, electric kettle, microwave, oven and fridge. We hope that we have thought of everything to make your stay as pleasant as possible (You can inspect our entire list of amenities within each cottage page.)

Comfort

Do We Need to Bring Linen, beach towels?

All of Seaside Retreat cottages are fully self-contained, with all linen, bedding, towels and fluffy bathrobes provided.
However you will need to bring your own beach towels if you plan on swimming in the retreat’s pool or at the beach.
For stays that are four nights or longer, we provide one towel-set changeover every four days. If this is not enough we advise you to bring additional towels.

What about Toiletries?

Toiletries such as soap, shampoo/conditioner are provided at every cottage.
Nevertheless, personal hygiene items are of course personal and it is advisable to pack your preferred soap, shampoo/conditioner, razors and deodorant, toothpaste etc.

Ok. What about toilet paper?

Toilet paper is provided for the first couple of days.

Do we need to bring mosquito repellent?

A can of mosquito repellent as well as bug spray is provided, however it is always a good idea to bring additional repellent with you, especially if you have a favourite type.
Remember that a complete seclusion in an enchanted forest can have a price at certain times of the year and mosquitos can sometime be a nuisance especially when the wetlands are saturated after rain. So when walking the tracks and exploring the beauty of the forest, your trusted Mozzie repellent would be a must-have.

Phone, Internet Connectivity and Casual Entertainment

Phone Reception

Mobile phones will work however reception varies with your network provider and your location on the retreat. Telstra has better coverage than other networks in this particular area.
Check here for Telstra 4G and Telstra 3G coverage.
A courtesy landline phone is provided in the office for guests to use at any time (National calls are free.)

Internet Connectivity / WiFi

The cottages are fitted with WiFi Routers to provide you with Internet during your stay (Please do not turn off or re-set the Router.)
Please note that while WiFi is provided, an Internet connection is not always guaranteed to be functional due to our regional area, changing weather conditions and/or Telstra line faults/breakdowns.

What about casual Entertainment?

Movies/TV/Music
Enjoy a premium entertainment experience in each of our cottages, equipped with state-of-the-art Sony 50 inch (127 cm) 4K Smart TVs, ensuring you have access to high-quality viewing during your stay. These TVs come with complimentary Netflix, allowing you to stream your favorite shows and movies in stunning 4K resolution. Additionally, each cottage is fitted with a versatile Sony Bluetooth Media/Radio and a DVD/CD player, perfect for playing your preferred music and films. This combination of modern entertainment technology enhances your relaxing retreat, making your stay both enjoyable and memorable.

Games Room
Our Games Room is a hub of entertainment, featuring a full-size Heiron & Smith pool table, a thrilling football soccer table, and a dartboard for friendly competition. It’s equipped with a TV and a Bluetooth Media/Radio CD player for your music needs, along with a bar fridge and plenty of comfortable seating, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

Swimming Pool
For guests who relish the joy of swimming and pool-side relaxation, our retreat offers a splendid 12-meter Swimming Pool located just a stone’s throw from the cottages. Embrace your love for sun and water in this ideal spot for both relaxation and exercise. We encourage our guests to enjoy the refreshing waters, whether for a morning swim or a leisurely afternoon float, while also reminding everyone to stay sun-safe with proper protection.

Tennis and Basketball Court
Our retreat boasts a versatile full-sized Tennis Court that doubles as a Basketball Court, situated conveniently near the Swimming Pool. This dual-purpose court is always available for guests staying in our three cottages, offering a perfect opportunity for a spontaneous game of tennis or basketball. Complimentary tennis racquets and basketballs are provided for your convenience and can be collected from the office, adding to the ease and enjoyment of your active pursuits during your stay.

Health and Safety

We take the health and safety of our guests and our staff very seriously. Nothing less will do.

Moreover and in sight of the current health climate we have re-written our safety policies to be in line with the latest Australian Government coronavirus guidelines so that you can feel assured you are safe when on retreat with us. But you’ll be happy to know that despite our safety measures it will still feel like a retreat where you can wind down, withdraw from the real world for a while, put your feet up and relax.

Updated Measures
We have updated our health and safety measures so that when you come on retreat with us you feel safe.

Trained personnel
Our personnel have the most up-to-date training in health and safety for a Covid-19 safe retreat.

Extra Cleanliness
We focus on extra cleanliness and hygiene in all our cottages and common areas such as the Games Room, Swimming Pool, Office etc.

Is a First aid kit available?

For your peace of mind each cottage is equipped with a First aid kit containing the basics such as bandaids, bandages, scissors, sterile wipes, hand sanitiser, tweezers, antiseptic cream and pain medication.
If this is not enough for your peace of mind then please feel free to bring your kit as well.

How close is the nearest medical centre?

Taree Medical Centre is about 34 min away or approximately 34 km (Please check directions here.)
Address: 68 Chatham Ave. Taree NSW 2430
Ph: (02) 6552 2411
Their Opening Hours are:
Mon – Fri: 8:30am – 5pm
Sat: 10am – 12pm
Sun: Closed

Are there any hospitals nearby?

Of course but hopefully you won’t need it.

Manning Base Hospital is located 30 min away or approximately 32 km from the retreat. (Please check directions here.)
Address: 26 York Street Taree NSW 2430
Ph: (02) 6592 9111
Hours of operation:
Manning Base Hospital operates 24 hours a day, 365 day a year providing emergency and inpatient services.
Outpatient and administration services operate from 8am – 5pm weekdays.

Should we worry about snakes?

The question is more like, should a snake worry about you?
Seriously though, the ratio of injured animals to injured humans is disproportional.

Many native animals, snakes included, become ill and are found by the public every year. Many more are injured on the roads each year. The lucky ones are taken into the veterinary hospital for care and attention.

Nevertheless it is important to be snake-aware when bushwalking in a country area and within the retreat. Always wear good shoes, long loose fitting pants. This reduces the chance of a snake being able to bite through the clothing.
Snakes only bite out of defence, not aggression.
If you happen to come across a snake while walking, just stop. If you do not move you are not a threat. Standing still makes you almost invisible to a snake as its eyesight is fairly poor and relies predominately on movement.

So what snakes species "might" we come across when on the retreat?

The snakes’ mating season runs from September until May, which would correlate with them being more active and more likely to be spotted by humans. They are active for two reasons, to mate and to eat. But that does not mean there is any reason to fear them.
So what types of snakes are you likely to come across on the Mid North Coast? Marsh snakes, yellow-faced whip snakes and green tree snakes are also fairly common in the region, but not considered dangerous.
The red-bellied black snakes and pythons are also commonly encountered.

Animals and Pets

Is there an additional fee for bringing a pet?

Dogs: Dogs are very welcome at Seaside Retreat but not inside the cottage and they are accommodated at an additional cost.
A non-refundable pet fee of $220 automatically applies for guests with dogs or cats.
It is important to note that guests are responsible for any repairs of damage, and/or for any additional cleaning required resulting from their dog’s or cat’s behaviour.

Horses: The long white sandy beach is perfect for horse riding so you might regret it if you don’t bring your horse(s) along and take advantage of the open natural space. Paddocks are available for your horse(s) to stay in at an additional $20 per night per horse. If the horse is kept outside in the paddock there’s no additional fee.

Are dogs allowed inside the cottages?

Strictly Dogs / pets are NOT allowed inside the cottages. However up to two dogs can be kept on the gated deck outside the cottage. Dogs staying on the deck should be kept off the deck furniture and out of the spa. Moreover Guests have to accept responsibility for any damage caused by their pets. Although the council require dogs to be on a leash when on the beach between 8am and 7pm, the beach is 10km long and usually quite deserted so leashes are not normally necessary.

Are there breed restrictions and is there a weight/size limit?

Yes. Your dog’s maximum weight shouldn’t be more than 20 kg (44 lbs.)

Is a dog allowed on the furniture and/or bed?

Pets are NOT ALLOWED inside the cottages.
However up to two dogs can be kept on the gated deck outside the cottage. Dogs staying on the deck should be kept off the deck furniture and out of the spa. By proceeding to book, guests accepts responsibility for any damage caused by their pets.

Can a dog be left unattended on the deck of the cottage?

Sorry but no. Your dog will need to be always under your supervision. We fear dogs left unattended may bark and disturb other patrons, or damage the cottage in your absence. If you are planning some dog-less activities, you need to consider your options before bringing your dog(s) with you.

Are there restricted areas that are off limits for pets?

Inside of the Cottages, swimming pool and the gaming room areas are completely off limits. However the forest and the beach are fine. Our enchanted forest and the beach are great areas for your pet to stretch its muscles. Although the council require dogs to be on a leash when on the beach between 8am and 7pm, the beach is 10 km long and usually quite deserted so leashes are not normally necessary.
Moreover it is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED that some form of tick protection be used on animals brought onto the retreat.

Pets responsibility

No responsibility whatsoever is accepted by Seaside Retreat for the well-being, safety or security of any animal brought onto the retreat.

WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE AT SEASIDE RETREAT?

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