Entire home

Adrift in the tree tops On the lake by the sea

Photo gallery for Adrift in the tree tops On the lake by the sea

Stunning modern design
Chefs kitchen with stainless island bench with breakfast bar
Living spaces open to large  upper deck with daybed and inside or outside dining
Private Master bedroom with a deck. Walk-in robe and ensuite.
Bedroom 2 level one

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms3+ bathroomsSleeps 10250 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Smiths Lake, NSW
  • Blueys Beach
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Sandbar Beach
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • Bull Island Nature Reserve
    ‪27 min drive‬
  • Forster, NSW (FOT)
    ‪31 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Bedroom 1

4 Single Beds

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

3 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 4

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Adrift in the tree tops On the lake by the sea

ADRIFT is a stunning modern well appointed house with the sparkling water views through the beautiful tree tops. ADRIFT is the perfect holiday destination for a couple of families or groups of friends. With 4 bedrooms, including a secluded master bedroom with deck, walk-in robe and ensuite. There are three and a half bathrooms including one with full length bath, 4 separate decks to catch morning or afternoon sun or shade and large pool table. This stunning modern house will enchant you with lofty views which catch the sea breeze and provide an intimate spectacle of the rainforest birdlife. Colourful parrots of many varieties at the front and finches and wrens and bowerbirds off the back deck.
The minute you arrive you will feel in holiday mode as the house provides the comfort of many private get-away spaces plus large entertainment areas and decks for socializing. Start your day leisurely with a book on the sunny daybed with a good coffee and progress to a paddle to pristine Celito Beach. Enjoy the peace and tranquility with an afternoon siesta with bird song the only sound. Prepare your feast in the well- appointed chefs kitchen or barbeque on the back deck. Indoor or covered outdoor dinning tables to choose from.
Other days enjoy the nearby golf course with wallabies and 4WD beach access onto Cellitto Beach from Sandbar camp site 5 minutes away.

4 km from the Golf Course.

Smiths Lake, Great Lakes Shire, Mid North Coast, NSW, Australia

Description 2: Location: Smiths Lake, Great Lakes Shire, Mid North Coast, NSW, Australia
The smallest and most scenic of the three great lakes is Smiths Lake. It provides the features of both deep water coves plus shallow sand banks to walk across to the surf beach. Water activities abound with a canoe and kayak provided by us on the lakeshore, plus boating rental equipment a walk away. You are spoilt with the choice of 6 stunning beaches to explore within 10 minutes drive. Two boat ramps 5 minutes from driveway within Smiths Lake.
The small coastal town of Smiths Lake provides the convenience of a baker, butcher, take-away, bottle shop / delicatessen and store and local clubs and restaurants are a minutes drive away. Walk the shoreline to the famous Frothy Coffee Boatshed for an atmospheric and delicious breakfast or lunch. Forster is a bigger center with large shopping facilities and is an essential 25 minute scenic drive through Bootti Booti National park if only for the treat of a walk across "The Bridge" joining Foster to Tuncurry.
The Smiths Lake location provides a wide range of diverse activities for both Winter and Summer including walking up the lighthouse at Seal Rocks (5 minute drive), mountain bike riding on the Wallingat National park trails, bush walking to the many lookouts, winetasting at Great Lakes Vineyard or just sunset gazing over Smith Lake while floating in the shallows.

Additional information

Outside shower for after swimming
A bunk room with 4 single beds
There are two fridges available food and beverages.
Full size deep bath.
Many basic condiments supplied.
Bed Linen supplied and beds made up. Please bring your own bath and beach towels.
Extremely well appointed chefs kitchen. Stainless steel appliances and a spacious stainless steel Island bench for interactive cooking and socialising
Pets negotiable. Responsible owners welcome on request.
Canoe (3 adult) supplied with paddles and life jackets.
2 kayaks.
Wifi and chrome cast for movies
Parking for three cars and additional cars / boats can park on roadside.
Eco Friendly build with solar hot water and water tanks for washing off cars and sandy feet.

Property manager

Leonie McGrath / Steve Mcgrath

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Outdoor space
Lake view

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Safe balconies. Shallow lake edge for swimming
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
On request. No pets on furniture Remove all fur.
default

Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
No outside noise after 10pm. Please remove your garbage from the house. Vacuum excess sand from common areas and bedrooms.
Please do not bring outside furniture inside as there are no felt pads on these items and they will scratch the hardwood floors.

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-5406, 2428

We should mention

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 a rural area and on a lake. Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse is a local landmark, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Bramble's Reserve and Wallingat National Park. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Smiths Lake, NSW

What's nearby

  • Smiths Lake - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Blueys Beach - 10 min drive - 8.7 km
  • Sandbar Beach - 11 min drive - 6.1 km
  • Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse - 23 min drive - 21.5 km
  • Bull Island Nature Reserve - 27 min drive - 20.9 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Frothy Coffee - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪The Good Food Store - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Kembali Cafe - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Drift Cafe - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Pacific Palms Seafood - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Adrift in the tree tops On the lake by the sea pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

What time is check-in at Adrift in the tree tops On the lake by the sea?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Adrift in the tree tops On the lake by the sea?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Adrift in the tree tops On the lake by the sea located?

This family-friendly Smiths Lake holiday home is located on a lake, within 3 mi (5 km) of Smiths Lake and Bramble's Reserve. Sandbar Beach and Blueys Beach are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 39 out of 43 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 43 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 43 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 43 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 43 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Monique M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great property!
We had a little extended family gathering and the property was perfect for this. Large enough that there was somewhere for everyone but communal spaces too where we could all hang out together. The proximity to the lake and accessibility to canoes/kayaks was a fun bonus! Would highly recommend
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Melissa Johnson

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
January break
We had a wonderful week at Adrift in Smith’s Lake. Everything was as per the listing. It is a very special and relaxing house in a peaceful location. Despite some wild weather we were able to kayak and swim in the lake, hire a boat and fish and go to the local beaches. A great break!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sheridan T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Peaceful and relaxing
Our family appreciated the many beautiful and comfortable living areas, inside and out, allowing the family to spread out and relax. The roomy kitchen was well appointed with everything we needed and more, and we loved the ice machine. The house is set amongst a private, peaceful and natural garden with lovely birdlife. The proximity to the lake was a bonus, as we paddled, swam and walked throughout the day. The use of the kayaks and canoe was fantastic. The pool table was also well used! We will definitely be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

8/10 Good

Tom M., Canberra ACT

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property
Wonderful location at Smiths Lake with views to the lake. House is very well set out with plenty of room for families to spread out and a great separate bedroom with ensuite which is very private- great for the grandparents! Good communication with the owners over a couple of minor issues. The elevation ensured that the afternoon breezes came in and kept us cool. Found the beds uncomfortable but very good in every other way.
Stayed 14 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jess S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Xmas Family Getaway
Steve and Leonie’s place is brilliant. Perfect location, gorgeous surrounds and view. Spacious - wonderful for families! The Kayaks/Canoe were great! Dog friendly. Everything was fabulous. Keep in mind the steep stairs if you’re bringing loads of stuff (we got a workout!), but it’s so worth it. Steve was very communicative and helpful - check in was easy x
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Katy D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A week Adrift
We had a fabulous holiday in Smith's Lake in no small part because of our accommodation. The house was perfect for four adults and four teens. Lots of places to curl up alone with a book or to be together enjoying company. The lake was warm and having access to boats a huge bonus. Heartily recommend.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Echo C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A Lovely Home in a Wonderful Area
The property is wonderful with a great view of the treetops. The rooms all feel spacious and there is plenty to do both nearby to the house and within the house with the pool table and kayaks providing endless entertainment.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mel R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Family getaway
This property was perfect for our extra long weekend and so well equipped.. the owners have thought of everything.. to the point there wasn’t a single thing that we could think we missed out on.. the 4 year old particularly loved feeding the birds straight off the handrail.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Vanessa W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great week
Thankyou Steve and Leonie for sharing your wonderful property, we had a fabulous week. Even the rain in the last few days did not affect our trip as the house had so much to offer. Totally recommend!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joanna S., Harrington Park

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing with beautiful setting
The house is quirky and spacious with lovely views high up in the trees. The only sounds you hear is birds calling. I was worried that as we stayed in summer with no air conditioning, but there was no need to worry as the house is so well designed that the sea breeze cools the house. Louvre's and good fly screens allows you to open up the house. So relaxing, great pool table and use of the canoes on Smiths Lake is a bonus. There are stairs to get into the house, but so worth it being up so high. Smart T.V with Chromecast is also fabulous with excellent WIFI. Access to Smiths Lake is easy. Highly recommend.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Helen H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful stay
We loved our stay in the house, it had everything we needed and the location is excellent, super close to the lake. the house has lots of space for a group or a couple of families to be together but not on top of each other. We loved the pool table and covered balconies on the rainy days and the lake and Cellito Beach on sunny ones. The hosts are friendly and helpful and the visiting birds a highlight. We look forward to our next visit.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Angela M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great family getaway
We had a wonderful stay at Adrift with our large family group of 8, with plenty of space to accommodate everyone and lots of activities to keep kids and adults entertained. The house is modern, breezy and light, and the verandahs are perfect to sit and catch views of the lake above the trees. The kitchen is well stocked and the rest of the house is super comfortable and well appointed. The house is well located, with access to the lake a short walk up the hill and across the road, and not far from the surf beaches. The lake is great for fishing, kayaking, exploring the shallows at low tide, and an easy walk around to the local coffee shop. One thing to note re pets or littlies is that there are secure areas on the verandahs but the grassed yard is not fenced in. Steve and Leonie were amazing hosts, extremely communicative and accommodating. Thank you for a great stay! We highly recommend this property.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Juliet L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Joy filled holiday
A warm and welcoming house, with great facilities including a pool table for our 19 and 17 year olds. Very comfortable, great kitchen and bathrooms; all good. The stairs were a bit daunting at times, but being so high, amongst the trees with glimpses of glistening water, and beautifully coloured birds visiting our fabulous deck, was a great joy. We even had a family of owls visit!!! Very happy holiday.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Alison G., Sydney, Australia

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A wonderful house!
We have already booked our next holiday here! The house is great, very well set up with lots of places to relax. The kitchen is well kitted out. The lake with canoes and kayaks is fun. It was wonderful to bring our dogs with us. Can't fault it.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Monique F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fabulous location
Wonderful location in all seasons! A great house in a great location with all the ammenities you need as a family, a home away from home! The stairs are hard when arriving and departing but otherwise not noticeable.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Richard H., Sydney, Australia

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great house and location
Adrift worked very well for our extended family group, which even including our dog. Well equipped and a great kitchen. And the steps gave us good daily exercise!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Brad L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wow! Beyond expectations.
As many other reviewers have said, this is really an excellent property and we would highly recommend a stay here. For us, there are three things that combine to make a memorable stay: the property, the location and the hosts with Adrit excelling on all three. The property was lovely and clean, well stocked with everything you need, plenty of spacious rooms, well decorated, loads of stuff to keep the kids occupied (games, pool table, feeding the birds). We loved being able to open all the windows and doors to let the breeze through the house and enjoy the views over Smith's lake. Smith's Lake is easily accessible, less than 30 seconds from the house, we spent every evening down there with the kids running around, cooking a bbq and using the canoes. It's also only a short drive to some excellent beaches such as Bluey's, Boomerang, Elizabeth Bay and Cellito beach. Forster is only a 20 min drive if you need a shopping mall. Lastly, Leonie and Stev are fabulous hosts, with super helpful and friendly communication from start to finish, very accommodating and a pleasure to deal with. We have plans to return again very soon!
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sonya H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
fantastic property
We had a fantastic stay at Adrift, the property had plenty of space for our large family and lots of activities to keep the kids busy. The location was peaceful, and we loved being up in the trees with all the birds. The hosts were fantastic and very easy to communicate with. Would absolutely recommend this property.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Dieuwe R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Magical split level home on the lake.
Adrift - a house that offers all we could wish for ! We were able to have wonderful quality time with our children and their partners in a home that is beautifully designed and very well equipped with quality appliances , furnishings and bedding. Every detail carefully chosen by the owners to ensure a stay that was super comfortable and without any hassles or inconveniences. The standard of cleanliness was excellent and communication with owners always smooth, efficient and friendly . We created wonderful family memories at Adrift. Kayaking in the golden lake , picnics at the beaches , swimming in crystal clear waters and being immersed in nature . We felt like we lived in the treetops with lorikeets and parrots with every comfort a family could wish for . Cooking altogether in a fabulous kitchen with the stainless steel island became the central hub for conversation, laughter and the cooperative spirit of joy which pervaded the space . This vacation will always remain a high point in our memories.. We are so grateful for the opportunity Leonie and Steve have provided to our family.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mel C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful house, fantastic location
From start to finish this was a wonderful stay. Steve was really helpful with information and easy to contact. The house is beautiful and welcoming, with everything you could need. We have two teenagers so we made great use of the pool table and kayaks and there was enough room for us all to have our own space. Great location, walk to Frothy Coffee and short drive to Blueys. The perfect stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Gabriele G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place
Very good experience and will recommend this place to future guests
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Alexandra M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Hard to do better ....
If you are reading this review just book the property!! We loved everything about it .... even got to love the stairs!! There is so much attention to detail - everywhere you look you know that the owners love and care for their property. The kitchen lacks nothing, the BBQ is simple but more than adequate. Having the BBQ on the back verandah is a great idea, as it leaves more space on the front verandah for the best day bed! Really you could spend all day and evening out there - the bird life is amazing. I’m not a big fan of birds but you get to love these creatures with their different personalities. The supplied bird food helps them keep coming back if you choose to put it out. Making a coffee on the Nesspresso machine and sipping in the morning sunshine ... heavenly. There are so many seating areas you need a bigger family to make use of it all, but the pool table often lures you off the couch. There is a variety of bedrooms ... the master is light and airy ... lie in bed and hear the waves, birds (and unfortunately leaf blowers ... why do people always mow/leaf blow when I try to have a nap?) Don’t get the wrong idea - the rest of the time the area is beautifully devoid of human noise. The property has three watercraft - a smaller and a very sturdy kayak and a canoe. They are chained up down at the lake. Life jackets are available .... even thoughtfully an xl one. The lock on the chain can be a tiny bit tricky but who cares when you have such a great spot for paddling .... just keep an eye on the tides and sandbanks. It took us an hour to get to Sandbar but 30 minutes back ... only because we kept having to avoid the sandbanks. Well worth doing though. Frothys is a little too far to walk to to bring back morning coffee but then there is no need to as you have the coffee machine. Beautiful walk along the lake if you want to go there for lunch. We got no phone reception which we expected and wanted. However, we did need it and just drove towards the shops until we got two bars. I could keep raving about the property, but do yourself a favour - if stairs are no problems, just book it!
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Dejan M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect holiday
Beautiful house, in a stunning location, equipped with everything one may need, including pool table, kayaks and a canoe, birds on the upper terrace are a constant source of joy, and probably the most important thing - wonderful hosts. Can't wait to return next year. Thank you Leonie and Steve, you've actually managed to make our 2020 a memorable year for a completely different reason than what we feared :)
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great for families
Loved the space and serenity. Great variety of birds to feed on the large deck. We enjoyed the use of the pool table and canoes. Perfect location for all the beaches in the area.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Donna C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent holiday space
Lovely holiday home. Wonderful views. Really was adrift in the tree tops. The house was well presented with all the things you need plus the little things like candles and mosquito coils. Hosts were easy to communicate with and very helpful with ideas of things to do in the area. Kayaks a great addition.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2020

About the host

Hosted by Leonie McGrath / Steve Mcgrath

Host profile image
Steve and I strive to make our house accomodating and holiday worthy. We are available to call anytime and respect the privacy of our guests.

Why they chose this property

Beaches to choose from. Lake to paddle on. Trees and nature in abundance.

What makes this property unique

Very private. Expansive sky’s cape views. Covered large decks up in the treetops

Languages:

English