Could this be the dreamiest view in Tassie’s coastal gem, Bicheno?

Perched on a sand dune overlooking the ocean, this East Coast retreat offers dazzling views, style and serenity. Add sun, wild swims and whale sightings – it’s clear Bicheno has never looked better

The peaceful ocean view from Cooinda On the Beach overlooking Waubs Bay in Bicheno. Picture: Dearna Bond

There’s something undeniably special about Bicheno. Maybe it’s the pristine beaches with fine-grained white sand, gin-clear turquoise waters and vibrant lichen-covered rocks. Or perhaps it’s the laid-back coastal charm, the friendly locals as well as the variety of cafes, eateries and boutique stores. Whatever it is, Bicheno has a magnetic pull that keeps drawing us back.

Until recently, I thought we’d already experienced some of the best accommodation Bicheno had to offer. That was until we stayed at Cooinda On The Beach.

If location matters to you, Cooinda is hard to beat. Perched on a sand dune, the property’s elevated position offers breathtaking, uninterrupted 180-degree views across Waubs Bay, Diamond Island, and out to the vast ocean expanse. Even better, it’s less than a minute’s walk to the beach and just 200m from the town’s shops. Despite being so central, the home maintains a sense of seclusion thanks to its rust-toned, weathered-steel exterior, tinted windows and the thick coastal vegetation that wraps around it.

The breathtaking view from Bicheno retreat Cooinda On The Beach which features uninterrupted views of Waubs Beach, Diamond Island, and the vast expanse of the ocean beyond. Picture: Danielle Ihnen/Arel Photography

We were fortunate to visit during one of those magical, sunny winter weekends ­­­‑ even though it coincided with the shortest day of the year. From sunrise to sunset, we soaked in the ever-changing colours of the bay, all without leaving the comfort of the living room. The peaceful views, dotted with colourful fishing boats bobbing gently in the water, were utterly mesmerising. One afternoon, while lounging on the deck, we were even lucky enough to witness a whale frolicking offshore ­– a truly unforgettable moment.

Cooinda On the Beach’s weathered-steel exterior which is wrapped around spotted gum, blends in seamlessly with the coastal landscape. Picture: Dearna Bond

The house itself is beautifully styled. The open-plan living space is warm and inviting, bathed in north-facing light pouring through floor-to-ceiling windows. Comfy couches in stone-hued linen, soft throws and jute rugs contribute to the relaxed coastal vibe. Unique statement pieces ­– like a Swedish timber workbench, an Aboriginal fishing trap and antiques sourced from local spots like The Jardin Room in Oatlands – add character and charm.

Cooinda On the Beach’s living room which features comfy couches in stone-hued linen, soft throws and jute rugs which all complement the property’s relaxed coastal vibe. Picture: Dearna Bond

Thoughtful touches abound. I enjoyed leafing through the collection of coffee table books left by the owners, including The Joys of Wild Swimming, Surf Tribe and Places We Swim. Inspired, and determined to embrace the trend of cold water plunging, I made it a mission to dip into the chilly waters of Waubs and nearby Redbill Beach during our stay.

The sea views from Cooinda’s living space are mesmerising. Picture: Dearna Bond

Cooinda’s living area – which features a dining table that seats eight and a breakfast bar – is ideal for both casual and formal dining. Picture: Dearna Bond

The kitchen is well-appointed for both casual and formal dining. A large dining table seats eight, and there’s a breakfast bar, Nespresso coffee maker (which earned my coffee-loving husband’s approval), an Aarke carbonator for sparkling water and even a pizza oven. A freestanding wood heater ensures the living area remains cosy, no matter the weather.

Cooinda’s master bedroom includes a comfy bed dressed in 100 per cent Belgian flax linens, soft throws and layered lighting that creates a luxurious, cocooned atmosphere. Picture: Dearna Bond

The three bedrooms are equally impressive, each featuring plush beds dressed in 100 per cent Belgian flax linens from Hale Mercantile and Sheridan, soft throws and layered lighting that create a luxurious, cocooned atmosphere. Given my appreciation of fine, quality bed linens this got a big tick from me.

Cooinda’s spacious main bathroom features a freestanding bath perfect for long indulgent soaks. Picture: Dearna Bond

There are two bathrooms ­– one downstairs that also functions as a laundry – and a spacious main bathroom upstairs featuring a freestanding tub perfect for long, indulgent soaks. Both bathrooms are stocked with Aesop body and hair products, locally made candles and artisanal bath salts.

Cooinda’s traditional European sauna also boasts stunning views of the ocean. Picture: Dearna Bond

The traditional sauna is the perfect spot for a post-swim retreat. Picture: Dearna Bond

Outdoors, the property includes a sunny deck which mirrors the living room’s panoramic views and also features an outdoor kitchen, firepit, ample outdoor chairs and barbecue area. It’s a perfect space for lounging or entertaining.

Motivated by the aforementioned books and a desire to feel invigorated, we braved two ocean swims during our visit. While we weren’t as daring as a pair of retirees who swam all the way out to the fishing boats, our quick dips left us feeling alive and refreshed. I’ll admit – returning to a warm outdoor shower and sauna at Cooinda made the whole experience even more appealing. The sauna itself, a traditional European Vikara sauna, is excellent and also offers stunning ocean views. It’s incredibly easy to use, and after our cold plunge, it made the idea of regular cold-water therapy feel genuinely achievable.

A stack of coffee table books thoughtfully left by the owners at Cooinda On the Beach. Picture: Dearna Bond

Cooinda’s sun-drenched deck is the perfect spot for a morning coffee. Picture: Dearna Bond

Cooinda is ideally located near popular eateries including Little Bay Patisserie, Governors coffee shop, Blue Edge Bakery, The Gulch for fish and chips, the local pub and the stylish French restaurant Le Coq. It’s also a great base for exploring the renowned East Coast wineries and nearby Douglas-Apsley and Freycinet national parks.

However, the true luxury of Cooinda is that you hardly need to leave. With everything you could want for a restful, indulgent stay just a few sandy steps from the sea, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to settle in and simply be.

The author was a guest of Cooinda On the Beach

Cooinda at Bicheno, is located only a few sandy steps from the beach. Picture: Dearna Bond

Cooinda’s deck is a great spot for some wine and cheese and to take in the dazzling view. Picture: Dearna Bond

MAKE A NOTE

COOINDA ON THE BEACH

Located in the heart of Bicheno, the three-bedroom, two-bathroom property can accommodate up to six adults.

There are three bedrooms each with kingsize beds. Two of the bedrooms have beds which can be split into two super long singles in each, if required.

Prices start from $500 per night, during the off-season.

There is a two-night minimum stay.

For more information and to book, go to www.youniquestays.com.au/cooinda-bicheno-accommodation-1 or visit the property’s website cooindaonthebeach.com.au or search for Cooinda On The Beach on Airbnb.