Want to know where to stay in Sydney? Singapore based SUSAN KNUDSEN-PICKLES introduces us to her pretty Bilgola beach holiday home on Sydney’s Northern Beaches.
Before moving back to Singapore for the second time, we lived in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, in the coastal suburb of Bilgola. Sixteen years ago, our home sat high above a nature reserve, surrounded by towering gum trees – it was peaceful, private and incredibly beautiful.
There was just one catch. To reach the front gate, we had to climb 300 steps.
If we forgot our keys, a shopping bag or even a phone charger, it became quite the expedition! The upside? We became very fit without ever needing a gym membership.
As much as we loved that home, we always dreamed of something different. We imagined waking up, grabbing a towel and walking barefoot to the beach – just stepping outside and hearing the waves.
There is one small street in Bilgola that leads directly onto the sand. Homes rarely come onto the market there because, frankly, why would anyone leave? Every time we walked past number 15, we’d say to each other, “If that house is ever for sale, that’s the one.”
Fast forward to 2024, and somehow, it happened: 15 Bilgola Beach House became ours!
The previous owner, George, had beautifully renovated the property from top to bottom, so there wasn’t a thing we needed to change. It was a rare home that immediately felt like it had been waiting for us. We are now letting it as a holiday home (on airbnb and direct with us) for others to enjoy while we are still living in Singapore.
Bringing the outdoors in
The beach house has a relaxed contemporary coastal style with subtle tropical influences – a design aesthetic that feels familiar after living in Singapore. Natural light pours into every room, while soft neutral tones, timber finishes and organic textures create a sense of calm.
There are four generous bedrooms with high ceilings that create a wonderful sense of space, and two separate living areas – great for larger families or groups of friends. Downstairs, the sitting room centres around a fireplace, perfect for long conversations or cosy evenings together. Upstairs is a quieter retreat where guests can curl up with a book or play board games. There’s a dedicated workspace, if needed, too.
At the heart of the home is a spacious open-plan kitchen fitted with contemporary appliances and everything needed for entertaining. It flows into a glass-enclosed breakfast room surrounded by windows.
Outside, we’ve created an entertaining space to remind us of Singapore: think lush tropical planting, towering cabbage palms and layered greenery wrapping around the expansive timber deck.
My favourite spot in the beach house
If I had to choose one favourite corner, though, it would be the front porch. Inspired by the relaxed front verandas you see in the southern United States, we’ve created a simple sitting area overlooking the front garden. It’s filled with blooming hydrangeas, miniature palms and manicured planting.
Every morning starts here with a cup of coffee while the resident parrots and cockatoos provide nature’s alarm clock. Evenings are for unwinding with a glass of rosé, watching the sky slowly turn shades of pink over the trees.
For us, this isn’t simply a holiday home. It’s a place where families reconnect, children spend all day outdoors and everyone naturally falls into the rhythm of beach life. Our beach house comfortably accommodates up to ten guests, and we’ve tried to think of everything people might need, from the fully equipped kitchen to beach towels and boogie boards.
More than anything, we hope guests experience the Northern Beaches lifestyle that made us fall in love with this part of Sydney all those years ago.
Life in Bilgola Beach
Bilgola Beach is one of Sydney’s best-kept secrets, set between dramatic headlands and surrounded by bushland. It offers a wonderfully peaceful lifestyle while still being only minutes from Avalon, Newport and Palm Beach.
Life here moves at a slower pace. Mornings often begin with a swim, surf or walk along the sand – Bilgola is regularly recognised as one of New South Wales’ cleanest beaches. Then it’s a pit stop at Zubi, a favourite local café for beachside breakfasts and coffee.
Five minutes away is Avalon Village, full of independent boutiques, homeware stores, cafés and surf shops. It has retained a laid-back village charm despite becoming increasingly popular. And ten minutes north is Palm Beach, famous as the filming location for Home and Away. Top restaurants here include The Joey, Dunes and Moby, ideal for long lunches overlooking the water.
One of our favourite walks follows the coastline from Bilgola Beach to Newport Beach. It’s a scenic five-kilometre stretch with breathtaking ocean views. The climb to Barrenjoey Lighthouse is well worth the effort, too – between May and October, you might be able to spot migrating humpback whales.
Although Bilgola feels wonderfully secluded, Sydney’s CBD is within easy reach. Driving is the quickest option. Alternatively, catch the iconic Manly Ferry across Sydney Harbour and enjoy some of the most beautiful harbour views in the world.
Fact File
- Multiple airlines fly direct to Sydney, including Singapore Airlines, Qantas and Scoot.
- Hiring a car on arrival is recommended, as having your own transport allows you to explore the Northern Beaches at your own pace. The drive from Sydney Airport is approximately one hour.
- Bookings and more information:
- airbnb.com.sg/h/bilgolabeach | IG@15bilgolabeachhouse | WhatsApp 9238 0244
