Straddie Bungalows

STRADDIE BUNGALOWS HAS BEEN SOLD AND IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILABLE FOR BOOKING.

Straddie Bungalows at North Stradbroke Island's Amity Point is one of those rare hidden holiday gems that comes packed with unexpected surprises. 

The gated entrance opens to reveal lush tropical gardens, reminiscent of Bali. Palm trees mix with Australian native trees, beautiful old fig trees and bromeliads. Balinese-style statues peep out from the garden beds and there's a feeling of calm throughout the two acre property.

Several thatched-roof bungalows and a log cabin make up the accommodation which is very comfortable and clean, with all the necessary creature comforts for a great holiday. Bedding configurations vary and there's an accommodation option to suit all visitors, from 1 bedroom bungalows to a two bedroom log cabin which can sleep 8 - 10 people.

So what are the surprises?  For those keen on fishing, there's a private jetty and there are fish to catch. Also at the waterfront is a large picnic table (complete with beach umbrella for daytime shade) - the perfect place to gather for drinks and nibbles as the sun goes down over Moreton Bay. And these aren't ordinary sunsets - they are amazing. Although there is no beach or swimming area on the waterfront, a beautifully landscaped swimming pool area with thatched-roof shelters, tables, chairs and sun lounges beckons to those who worship the sun or just want a cool dip. The kids haven't been forgotten with a swing set and cute little cubby house to keep them occupied.

But here are the REAL surprises ....  Each evening wild dolphins come to the bottom of the steps beside the jetty, looking for a snack. Guests can buy pilchards from the general store in Amity and these beautiful creatures will come close to be hand-fed.  Also at Amity Point is a group of approximately 20 resident koalas and three or four of them live in the grounds of Straddie Bungalows. They won't necessarily be sitting in the fork of a gum tree. The golden cane palms around the swimming pool can sometimes reveal a snoozing koala. Easily visible from the waterfront is the communications tower, where a pair of osprey has built their nest and home for their babies. The sight of a fishing line being dangled over the jetty may be enough to entice Mum or Dad to come close.

There's more...turn left out of the gated driveway and take a leisurely five minute stroll to Rufus King Seafoods where you'll find the freshest, sweetest prawns. As the trawlers pull in to the jetty at Amity Point to unload, seafood doesn't get any fresher. At Rufus King Seafoods visitors will find just about any type of seafood their hearts desire. A right turn out of the driveway of Straddie Bungalows and an even shorter walk away is Seashells Cafe where you can while away the hours on their tree lined deck and just relax. A little further down the road is the Amity Point General Store where grocery items, papers, ice, bread, milk, ice creams, and bait are amongst the items sold.

Continue this walk and visitors will find the Amity Point jetty and an enclosed swimming area, popular with families, campers, boaties and those who love to whet a line. If it's surf, shopping and eateries that guests are looking for, it's just a quick twenty minute drive to the beautiful beaches of Point Lookout, shops and a variety of food and coffee venues.

Need to know: Straddie Bungalows is a very popular accommodation choice so plan your holiday and call Jenni on 3409 7017 to book well ahead.

by Sandy Ludinski