Get out of town: Our pick of the country

5 Halyard Court, Ocean Shores
About $1.2 million
4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 1 car space

Waterfront Tusitala is a 15-minute drive north of Byron Bay. It has an extra-wide deck for relaxing on, taking in the freshwater views of the Capricornia Canal and for listening to the surf just one block away via a nature reserve track. Custom-designed to capture light and airflow, it comes with a luxurious income-producing studio. Cooloongatta airport is 25 minutes away.

Byron Shire Real Estate, 0411 114 923.

58 New City Road, Mullumbimby
$540,000 +
3 bed 1 bath 1 car

Ideal for an affordable, laid-back tree change, this recently renovated family home has a modern cottage feel. Rosewood bifold doors reveal the timber verandah and frame lush green gardens including a vegie patch. The Italian marble benchtops in the  kitchen blend in with the original floorboards. There’s also a workshop out the back for passion projects. It’s five-minute stroll to Mullumbimby town centre.

McGrath Byron Bay, 0428 842 387

4/2 Barnhill Road, Terrigal
$3.6 million +
4 bed 3 bath 4 car

You’ll be blown away by the 240-degree beach, ocean and headland views from this penthouse. The light-filled interiors, high ceilings and full-length windows that look out to the blue make you feel as if you are floating on the water. Luxury interiors include timber and stainless-steel kitchen, three marble bathrooms and C-Bus controls for roller blinds, lighting and heated towel rails. There’s underfloor heating in all tiled areas. It’s a short stroll to the shops.

Raine & Horne Terrigal, Avoca Beach, 0416 111 811

154 Russell Road, New Lambton
$850,000 +
5 bed 2 bath 2 car

The street appeal, wide sweeping verandahs and red door of this spacious weatherboard home are eye-catching. Charming character exudes from the timber staircase, sandstone fireplace, high ceilings, timber panelling and polished floors. It comes with a pool and kids’ retreat too.

Ray White Newcastle Lake Macquarie, 0424 740 463. Auction 11.30am, September 26.