Shelly Beach

Discovering Shelly Beach, Port Macquarie

Shelly Beach, located just south of the Port Macquarie town center in New South Wales, is a beautiful coastal suburb known for its tranquil environment, stunning views, and natural surroundings. As part of the Port Macquarie-Hastings region, this area combines the charm of a seaside lifestyle with the convenience of being close to local amenities. Shelly Beach is primarily a residential area, with its beach being a popular destination for both locals and visitors.

Population and Demographics

Shelly Beach is a small, tightly-knit community. The population size is relatively modest, with several hundred residents, depending on the delineation of the suburb. It is a predominantly family-oriented area, with many residents drawn to the peaceful surroundings and proximity to the beach. The population structure consists largely of established families, retirees, and professionals. There’s also a notable presence of holiday homes, as the suburb is popular for weekend getaways and vacation stays.

The age demographic tends to lean towards middle-aged and older adults, but the area is seeing an increasing number of younger families moving in due to the lifestyle advantages and good local schools.

Structure of Dwellings

Shelly Beach is mostly made up of detached homes, though there are also some townhouses and units available. The houses in the area vary from older, traditional homes built in the mid-20th century to more modern dwellings. Many of the older homes have been renovated, though some may require upgrades, particularly in terms of electrical systems and energy efficiency.

Housing Prices Over Time

The medium house price in Shelly Beach has risen steadily over the years, reflecting the broader trend in Port Macquarie. As of recent data, the average house price hovers around $750,000 to $800,000, while units can range from $500,000 to $600,000, depending on location and property features. The proximity to the beach and Port Macquarie’s general desirability have driven demand, making it a sought-after area for families, retirees, and investors alike.

Local Amenities

Shelly Beach offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with access to excellent local amenities.

• Beaches: The main attraction is, of course, Shelly Beach itself, a quiet and secluded beach known for its natural beauty, rock pools, and adjacent rainforest reserve. It’s ideal for picnics, casual beach walks, and family outings.
• Restaurants and Cafes: While Shelly Beach itself is more residential, nearby areas such as Flynns Beach and Lighthouse Beach offer a variety of cafes, restaurants, and small shops. Popular spots include the Rainforest Café and Blue Water Bar & Restaurant, both offering casual dining experiences with a local touch.
• Shops and Services: Essential shopping and services can be found nearby, with the Port Macquarie town center offering supermarkets, retail stores, medical facilities, and other conveniences just a short drive away.
• Parks and Playgrounds: Families will appreciate the local parks and playgrounds scattered around the area. The Sea Acres Rainforest Centre is nearby, offering nature trails and educational activities. For children, there are several playgrounds within easy reach of the beach.

Schools and School Catchments

Families moving to Shelly Beach will find several good school options nearby. The area falls within the Port Macquarie Public School and MacKillop College catchments, which are well-regarded for their academic standards. Additionally, St Peter’s Primary School and Newman Senior Technical College are also accessible for residents of Shelly Beach.

Electrical Considerations for Shelly Beach

One important factor to consider when moving to Shelly Beach is the potential impact of salt spray on electrical systems. Being close to the coast means that homes are more exposed to corrosive salt air, which can affect wiring, switches, and other electrical components over time. Regular maintenance and potentially upgrading the electrical system is advisable, particularly if purchasing an older home.

On a positive note, Shelly Beach is ideal for solar energy harvesting due to the abundant sunshine in the area. Installing solar panels is a popular choice among residents to reduce energy costs and increase the energy efficiency of their homes.

Additionally, many homes in Shelly Beach were built several decades ago, meaning that if you’re buying a property here, an electrical system upgrade might be necessary to meet modern standards, especially for safety concerns like installing RCD safety switches or upgrading the switchboard.

Conclusion

Shelly Beach offers an enviable lifestyle with its pristine beach, natural beauty, and convenient access to both Port Macquarie’s town center and local amenities. With steady property values and a welcoming community, it’s a perfect place for families and retirees alike. If you’re considering moving to Shelly Beach, take note of the electrical considerations that come with coastal living, but rest assured that the area offers plenty of modern conveniences and a relaxed way of life by the sea.