Fishtales On the Lake

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Entire home

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 2200 sq m

Popular amenities

Parking available
Beach view
Dryer
Air conditioning
Washer
Free WiFi

Explore the area

Smiths Lake, NSW

Blueys Beach
‪18 min drive‬
Sandbar Beach
‪18 min drive‬
Bull Island Nature Reserve
‪26 min drive‬
Forster, NSW (FOT)
‪41 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio

Kitchen

Garden

Dining area

About this property

Fishtales On the Lake - Exclusive “Couples Only” Private Waterfront Retreat.

"Fishtales On the Lake” is an absolute waterfront, 5 star, Couples Only, private retreat and is located right on the lake in Smiths Lake NSW.

It really doesn't get any better than this---- private, with a beautiful sandy beach straight out the front. (Fishtales has complimentary kayaks for you to use and explore the lake and beach.)
It is arguably, THE best spot on the Lake.

Located just south of Forster on the mid north coast of NSW, it’s an easy 3 hour drive north from Sydney .
It's perfect for honeymooners, second honeymooners, or just that romantic or fun weekend or week away for one or two couples.
* 3 night minimum for Public holiday weekends and School Holidays.
Fishtales owners and managers, Steve and Kaz, are onsite if you need any assistance or advice during your stay.
Your holiday here can be as private as you would like while still offering all the luxuries and lakeside activities for you to enjoy.

For the water enthusiasts, Smiths Lake is a salt water environment that is very popular for swimming, skiing and fishing and all outdoor water sports. It also supports all the fish species normally found along the east coast, bream, flathead, whiting, flounder, blackfish, blue swimmer crabs etc.
You can put your boat in when you arrive and leave it on the buoy out front or parked on the beach, right in front of your apartment for the duration of your stay.
The apartment has digital Smart TV and Wi-Fi
Bedroom one has a King size bed and bedroom two is Queen size.
Both bedrooms have air conditioning with ensuite bathrooms.
Further information can be obtained by contacting Steve or Kaz by sending a booking enquiry.
Avoid disappointment and book early for your next romantic / fun holiday.
Come for a weekend, week or a long weekend, we know you will love it .

Please note that Fishtales is an "allergy free" venue and as such, for our future guests protection, we do not allow any animals whatsoever on the property. This includes "companion animals".
We thank you for your understanding.

Fishtales On the Lake is a subsidiary of Ridleys Property Services Pty Ltd. ABN 44 075 594 482.

Property manager

Steve Ridley

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

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Look across the lawn to the lake and all the way to the ocean

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi

House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Adults only

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Only registered guests are permitted on the property.

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

Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

Property Registration Number PID-STRA-5032, 2428

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Smiths Lake

Located in Smiths Lake, this holiday home is in the city centre and on the waterfront. Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse is a local landmark, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Bramble's Reserve and Smiths Lake Nature Reserve. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

View more Holiday homes in Smiths Lake

Smiths Lake, NSW

What's nearby

Smiths Lake - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
Blueys Beach - 18 min drive - 8.3 km
Sandbar Beach - 18 min drive - 5.7 km
Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse - 22 min drive - 21.1 km
Bull Island Nature Reserve - 26 min drive - 20.5 km

Restaurants

‪Frothy Coffee - ‬20 min walk
‪The Good Food Store - ‬13 min walk
‪Kembali Cafe - ‬9 min drive
‪Drift Cafe - ‬9 min drive
‪Pacific Palms Seafood - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Fishtales On the Lake - Exclusive “Couples Only” Private Waterfront Retreat. pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Fishtales On the Lake - Exclusive “Couples Only” Private Waterfront Retreat.?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Fishtales On the Lake - Exclusive “Couples Only” Private Waterfront Retreat.?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Fishtales On the Lake - Exclusive “Couples Only” Private Waterfront Retreat. located?

Located in the heart of Smiths Lake, this holiday home is steps from Smiths Lake and 1.9 mi (3.1 km) from Bramble's Reserve. Sandbar Beach and Smiths Lake Nature Reserve are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

JULIE M.

2 Oct 2015

Peaceful Location

Beautifully appointed accommodation, containing everything you could possibly need. Excellent location right on the lake with stunning beaches close by.

10/10 Excellent

Nina W.

4 Jan 2025

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

Fishtales- outstanding accomodation, location and exceptional hospitality

Outstanding Accommodation and Exceptional Hospitality at Fishtales, Smiths LakeOur stay at Fishtales was absolutely outstanding. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that every detail had been thoughtfully considered to create a welcoming and relaxing experience. We were greeted with homegrown fresh herbs and fruit, a chilled bottle of bubbly, and a lovely red wine—such a warm and generous touch!The facilities were immaculate, with everything spotlessly clean and well-maintained. The beds were incredibly comfortable, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. The outdoor BBQ area was fantastic, providing a perfect spot to enjoy meals surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Smiths Lake.Steve went above and beyond to make our stay special, setting out kayaks for us and offering helpful advice on the best places to safely paddle around the lake. Exploring the natural, untouched beauty of this area was a highlight of our trip—it truly is breathtaking.Steve and Kaz were the perfect hosts: kind, welcoming, and accommodating. They made us feel completely at home and left no stone unturned in ensuring our stay was perfect.We thoroughly enjoyed exploring the surrounding area and all it has to offer. We cannot wait to return to Fishtales—it’s an exceptional retreat that we highly recommend to anyone looking for a peaceful, beautiful escape. Thank you, Steve and Kaz, for a truly unforgettable stay!

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Col U.

5 Mar 2015

What a Peaceful Experience!

Fishtales on the Lake is quality accommodation right on the lake looking over to Sandbar Beach. The owners Steve and Kaz are very helpful but not in any way intrusive. The set up is very private. There is nothing that hasn't been thought of and the little things that were done for us were very much appreciated. I found the local business owners of Smiths Lake to be very accommodating too and the insights from Steve on where to go were very helpful. There's also nothing like sitting out at the bar on the deck overlooking the lake with a glass of wine and nibblies after going fishing or paddle boarding out the front. My wife chose this place from our shortlist and I know she will look forward to going back. Thanks for a great experience.

10/10 Excellent

Robert M., West Ryde, Australia

17 Sept 2020

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

Relax in absolute comfort

The photos of this property are very accurate but they just can't convey the "feeling" of FishTales. Pefect location. beautiful decor. quality fittings and absolutely everything you could need at your fingertips. Add in two very welcoming hosts who happily provide local knowledge and you'll feel relaxed in no time. We ate most of our meals on the huge back deck looking the lake, sometimes watching black swans swim by or listinening to the whip birds singing in the trees. The deck is so well set up it even has a TV but I'm not sure why you look away from the scene in front of you. You can even use the canoe and life jackets provided by Steve and Kaz if you.ve had too much relaxation. If you like quality, a peaceful setting and all the extras that go into making a great break this is the place for you. Steve and Kaz will look after you, all you need to do is enjoy yourself, we certainly did.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Julie H., Pacific Palms

4 Apr 2014

Living the Dream

As we entered the apartment- we knew we had booked the right place to be totally spoilt. WOW what a view and the apartment was simply stunning. Relaxing and unwinding were high on the agenda and Steve and Kaz were lovely hosts-quickly making us feel welcome. Sitting on the deck in the afternoon as the sun was setting with our favourite drinks was gorgeous with the lake changing from the prettiest colour silvery blue to shadesof grey- very romantic. The sun rise was beautiful so we decided to use the kayaks supplied by Steve to paddle across the lake to the beach that separates the Lake from the Ocean- it was pure magic- pelicans landed on the lake around us and fish jumping out of the water-I wished I was a fisherman. We basically stayed put for the 2 days- no need to go anywhere- the apartment and lake/beach had it all. It was just a magical time- eating, swimming, walking along the lake, lying on the deckchairs looking at the lake, reading, listening and watching the bird life up close, kayaking, sleeping- best sleep ever- so peaceful. We didn't want to leave, but felt rejuvenated ready to head back to the city. Will definitely be back.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Marla H.

20 Oct 2014

FISHTALES on the lake ...where you'd rather be.

We had the most amazing stay at Fishtales on the Lake.The combination of luxury accommodation, pristine natural beauty of the Great Lakes area and the genuine warmth of hosts Steve & Kaz provided the perfect chilled out getaway for us. We were blown away by how welcoming and helpful our hosts were but at the same time being very respectful of our privacy. The accommodation has a classy beachy feel to it and is designed to make the most of the fantastic waterfront location.We particularly loved being able to watch the sunrise from the beautiful four poster bed in the morning. Fishtales has all the modern creature comforts you could want..coffee machine, dishwasher, fridge with filtered water , full kitchen and we were spoilt for entertainment with great sound system and pay TV too. Much time was spent out on the deck enjoying the view with some cool beverages and some local seafood.But if you don't want to cook there are quite a few dining out options We had a lovely meal at Buddhas by the Beach and an excellent Asian meal at Jetsu Cafe at Charlotte Bay , both within a ten minute drive from Fishtales. As we are into water activities we were delighted to find that Fishtales has quite a few "water toys". We did our own version of "boot camp" , paddling the double kayak across the lake to the sandspit and walking the beach where we were often the only people...to the north is one of the best spots on the coast,Cellito and the south end is pretty too. That is the beauty of the area , there are so many beaches within a 5-15 minute drive of Fishtales that no matter what the wind you can always find a sheltered spot.Steve was setting up some SUP boards when we were there so will have to try them next time. There is a tinny for fishing but you can just fish straight from the back yard. It really was the best relaxing holiday we've had in a long time ,so a big thanks to Steve and Kaz for sharing their little piece of paradise with us . I think we are going to become regular visitors. .

10/10 Excellent

jeffrey4775 R.

12 Mar 2025

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nic Y.

25 Apr 2022

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

Great place to wind down and relax

Immaculate property right on the beautiful Smith's Lake. Gracious and helpful hosts. Beautiful area to walk, canoe and explore local attractions. 5 days perfect. Highly recommend.

Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Joseph S.

13 Jan 2022

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

Best spot on Smiths Lake

Fishtales is beautifully located on the shore of the lake, very well set up, kitchen well equiped, air con excellent, the verandah a great relaxing space for drinks and meals and Steve and Kaz are very welcoming and accomodating hosts

Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Meaghan E.

20 June 2021

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

Rainy weekend in…

We went to Fishtales to celebrate our 2nd wedding anniversary and even though the weather was miserable we had such a beautiful time. The accomodation is so comfortable and clean with the BEST view of the lake. Kaz and Steve have organised the house so well and everything we needed was within an arms reach. From the first moment we got there Steve was so kind and helpful, even explaining the lake and different areas for us. Nothing was too much trouble and we cannot wait to go back. Would recommend this place to everyone, especially couples looking to spend some quality time together. Thanks again Kaz and Steve, see you again! Meaghan and Michael

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Donald C., Raymond Terrace

16 Apr 2021

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

Great hosts... Great accommodation... great location

We only had 5 nights at Fish Tales, but it was the best 5 days ever. The apartment is beautiful.... clean... well equipped... and furnished with very high quality stylish everything. Steve and Kaz are wonderful hosts, very welcoming, and nothing is too much trouble. The location if 5 star and we recommend anyone to just book it ... you will not be dissatisfied.

10/10 Excellent

narelle s.

24 Mar 2021

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

Perfect getaway

Enjoyed our stay at Fish Tales. Beautiful house, location and hosts. Steve and Kaz kept us updated on road conditions and even offered us an opportunity to cancel due to the horrible weather conditions. Although it rained the whole stay we had a wonderful time. So clean and all the comforts of home but with a stunning view. We will return to enjoy it in the sunshine!

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Adrienne H.

10 Mar 2021

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

Kayaking in natural environment with deluxe accommodation

Offered relation with comfort and elegance in an amazing and unique setting.

Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Sarah P.

5 Jan 2021

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

Luxury in Smiths Lake

My husband & I stayed at this property for three nights and really wish we’d booked it for longer. Top quality furnishings, appliances & lighting makes it such a beautiful place to spend a few days. We loved the outlook over the lake and the pristine decking area is the perfect spot to read a book & relax in the afternoon. The house’s location beside the lake is stunning; we took our paddle boards out on the lake & it was like being on a tropical island. We had breakfast on the deck looking out over the lake each morning. Blueys Beach & Seal Rocks are just a short drive. Would highly recommend.

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Maggie S., Australia

31 Dec 2020

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

Absolutely outstanding

Superb accommodation, brilliant hosts and amazing location. This property is like a 5 star hotel - everything is top quality with great attention to detail. We will definitely return.

10/10 Excellent

Archie H.

20 Dec 2020

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

Will Definitely Return

Where function meets form. Great ambience and very comfortable. We felt very spoilt. Can't wait to go back.

10/10 Excellent

Emma D., Sydney, Australia

13 Nov 2020

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

Fabulous couples getaway

This place is truly set up for a couples getaway with all the creature comforts. Super comfy bed, well equipped kitchen, in a superb location right on the lake. Exactly as listed. Steve and Kaz are wonderful hosts, so helpful to ensure you enjoy your stay - we loved our little kayak adventure on the lake.

Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Christina P.

1 Nov 2020

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

Absolutely amazing! Thank you Steve and Kaz!

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2020

10/10 Excellent

Sally C.

26 Mar 2020

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

Exceeded all expectations

Fabulous location, Steve and Kaz were excellent hosts, hope to be back again

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

Mark M., Mount Annan

16 July 2019

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

Ultimate Relaxation

Fishtales - is the ultimate relaxation retreat. Beautifully appointed and decorated, the property has everything you could ask for. The pictures on the website are exactly how it looks in the flesh , fabulously furnished and spotlessly clean a home away from home. Situated right at the edge of the lake it boasts an amazing view in a particularly peaceful and sheltered area of Smiths Lake. Hosts, Steve and Kaz were incredibly welcoming and left a genuine impression. A wonderful property that we’d love to return to. Mark and Kellie Mount Annan.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Jordan K.

10 June 2019

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

Beautiful!

Thank you for the wonderful weekend.

8/10 Good

Barb M.

19 May 2019

Great relaxing spot

We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. The place is very well equipped, comfortable and private. The whole area is a magic part of NSW. Thanks so much for a wonderful break.

Stayed 5 nights in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Fiona H.

18 Apr 2019

Relaxing

We had a great 2 night stay, relaxing, fishing, walking on the beach and enjoying the peaceful surrounds. Thanks so much for making our stay special!

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Gemma I.

23 Oct 2018

Perfect in every way

Beautiful location, beautiful home retreat, very efficient service in responding to my enquiry, definitely would stay here again. Special thanks to Kate and Steve. Kind regards Gemma and Bill Zilian

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2018

This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

KATIE G.

22 Jan 2018

Fantastic property!

My partner and I enjoyed a week at Fishtales and it was a great experience. Steve and Kaz are fantastic to deal with and were most welcoming during our stay. The property itself is right on the beautiful shore of Smiths Lake and there is everything you could need to make your stay enjoyable and very relaxing. We had a great time and would love to return some time soon we hope!

About the host

Hosted by Steve Ridley

Both Kaz and myself have been locals in the area for many years with a long family history here.
We love it here and consider this area to be the pick of the mid north coast.
We hope you do too and we look forward to your stay at Fishtales.
Cheers,
Steve.

Why they chose this property

Fishtales is in such a fantastic location, its the best spot we have found after literally searching the east coast for many years, for that stand out property.
Come and stay and enjoy one of Australia’s truly beautiful and best locations.
Cheers
Steve and Kaz

What makes this property unique

THE best location on the Lake.
5 star accommodation
Absolute waterfront location
Sandy lakefront
Looking straight across to Sandbar beach
!0 minute drive to some of the best surf beaches in NSW
Privacy
Salt water environment.
Kiteboarding.
Windsurfing.
Fishing.
Waterskiing.
Surfing.
Kayaking.
Canoeing.
Walking trails.
National Parks.
Only 25mins to major centre.
Local shopping and facilities.
Courtesy buses from both clubs will pick you up from your door and bring you home after your night or afternoon out.

Languages:

English

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Fishtales On the Lake - Exclusive “Couples Only” Private Waterfront Retreat.

Photo gallery for Fishtales On the Lake - Exclusive “Couples Only” Private Waterfront Retreat.

Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

Bedroom 2

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Spaces

About this property

Fishtales On the Lake - Exclusive “Couples Only” Private Waterfront Retreat.

Property manager

Languages

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Have a question?

Similar properties

Smith’s Lake - Waterfront - family holiday- last minute deals available

Smith’s Lake - Waterfront - family holiday- last minute deals available

House Rules

Children

Events

Pets

Smoking

Important information

You need to know

We should mention

About the area

Smiths Lake

What's nearby

Restaurants

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

Exceptional

10/10

10/10

10/10

10/10

10/10

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

JULIE M.

Peaceful Location

JULIE M.

10/10 Excellent

Nina W.

Fishtales- outstanding accomodation, location and exceptional hospitality

Nina W.

10/10 Excellent

Col U.

What a Peaceful Experience!

Col U.

10/10 Excellent

Robert M., West Ryde, Australia

Relax in absolute comfort

Robert M.

10/10 Excellent

Julie H., Pacific Palms

Living the Dream

Julie H.

10/10 Excellent

Marla H.

FISHTALES on the lake ...where you'd rather be.

Marla H.

10/10 Excellent

jeffrey4775 R.

jeffrey4775 R.

10/10 Excellent

Nic Y.

Great place to wind down and relax

Nic Y.

10/10 Excellent

Joseph S.

Best spot on Smiths Lake

Joseph S.

10/10 Excellent