Seaside stay .Within 2 miles (3 km) of this Cowes vacation home, you'll find Phillip Island Coastal Reserve and Cowes Beach. Phillip Island Wildlife Park and Phillip Island Ferry Dock are also within 2 miles (3 km).
Phillip Island Coastal Reserve - 15 min walk - 0.8 miles
Cowes Beach - 17 min walk - 0.9 miles
Phillip Island Wildlife Park - 3 min drive - 1.5 miles
Phillip Island Ferry Dock - 4 min drive - 1.7 miles
Silverleaves Beach - 5 min drive - 1.9 miles
Getting around
Somerville Station - 74 min drive
Avalon Airport (AVV) - 142 min drive
Restaurants
Pino's Trattoria - 4 min drive
Chapel Lane - 4 min drive
Golden Fry Fish & Chips - 4 min drive
Nat’s Fish And Chips - 4 min drive
Fisherman's Wharf - 4 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Island Sands - sleeps 8
About the home
“Island Sands” is a delightful, pet friendly (outside only) home in Cowes. Some of the many features of this lovely home are detailed below:
Indoor Areas
This single-storey home contains a Kitchen & Dining area leading out to the large under-cover deck. There are two Living areas (the first with smart TV, DVD player, Wii Nintendo, PlayStation3 & an X-Box; the second with a pool table), and a master bedroom with walk-in robe and en-suite (with shower and toilet). There are two further Bedrooms (each with BIR), another bathroom (with bath and shower), a separate toilet and a Laundry (with washing machine).
Outdoor Areas
Outdoor living is a delight with a huge, fully roofed deck housing a gas BBQ and outdoor setting. Off-street parking is also provided, with room for two vehicles plus a large double garage. Pets are welcome to use the dog beds provided under the pergola.
Kitchen
The fully appointed kitchen is equipped with cooking utensils, crockery, cutlery, microwave, toaster, kettle, etc. plus a double sink, fridge, dishwasher, electric oven and cook top.
Heating/Cooling Systems
The home has wall mounted reverse cycle split system units in both living rooms, and two portable heaters for use where required.
Bedding Configuration
This home has 6 beds accommodating up to 8 guests:
Bedroom 1: One Queen bed Bedroom 2: One Queen bed Bedroom 3: Two Single beds and 2 Trundle beds
Linen
It is common in the region for some linen to be provided for bookings, and some linen to be available as an optional extra. By default, a booking at this home does not include optional linen (top & bottom sheets, bath towels and pillowcases). What is included are doonas (quilts) with covers, pillows without covers, tea towels, hand towels and bathmats. If you would like the optional linen included in your booking, please let us know, including which beds you would like it provided for. The additional cost would be a one-off charge of $30 per bed (some sites add a service fee to these costs) - and we prefer 7 days' notice prior to your arrival to get that arranged.
Peak Periods
Please note that during the peak summer period and other peak times, check in times are set as 3pm (unless by prior arrangement). Please also note that if you avail of the optional linen hire over these times, it may involve linen being left out but beds not being made up.
Functions, Celebrations and Schoolies
Please note that the home is not suitable for celebrations, parties or large events. The home also does not take bookings over Schoolies. All bookings are subject to approval, pending Guest verification process - Local council restrictions are in place for this property and compliance is mandatory.
Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)
General
Garden
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Rules
This reservation is not confirmed until guest verification process has been completed. Strict local council regulations apply.
Pets
Pets are welcome
Service animals are exempt from fees
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome.
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Property is also known as
Island Sands Cowes VIC
Island Sands - sleeps 8 Cowes
Island Sands - sleeps 8 Private vacation home
Island Sands - sleeps 8 Private vacation home Cowes
48_66
Frequently asked questions
How close is Island Sands - sleeps 8 to the airport?
This vacation home is 120.2 mi (142-min drive) away from the Avalon Airport (AVV) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.
How much does it cost to stay at Island Sands - sleeps 8?
As of Apr 12, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Island Sands - sleeps 8 on Apr 20, 2026 start from $249, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Does Island Sands - sleeps 8 have an airport shuttle?
Airport shuttle services are not available at this vacation home.
How close is Island Sands - sleeps 8 to the beach?
This vacation home is 1 mi (3-min drive) from Cowes Beach and 2.1 mi (7-min drive) from Silverleaves Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!
Does Island Sands - sleeps 8 offer free breakfast?
This vacation home does not offer free breakfast.
Is there a casino at Island Sands - sleeps 8?
No, there is no casino at this vacation home.
What time is check-in at Island Sands - sleeps 8?
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Is there free parking at Island Sands - sleeps 8?
Free parking is not available at this vacation home.
Does Island Sands - sleeps 8 have a pool?
This vacation home does not have a pool.
Does Island Sands - sleeps 8 have a spa?
There are no spa services available at this vacation home.
How close is Island Sands - sleeps 8 to downtown Cowes?
This vacation home is 0.9 mi away from Cowes.
Island Sands - sleeps 8 Reviews
Reviews
9.2
Wonderful
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 16 out of 23 reviews
10 - Excellent
16
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 23 reviews
8 - Good
4
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 23 reviews
6 - Okay
3
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 23 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 23 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
7.6/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Nadia K.
Feb 28, 2026
Nadia K.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
8/10 Good
Barb M.
Jan 24, 2026
Pretty good overall- cleaning could be improved- frypans were in cupboard and dirty and clothes in cupboards and drawers and down side of bed.
Barb M.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2026
10/10 Excellent
Linh D.
Apr 25, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect group stay
This was perfect short stay for our family & dogs. Large enough for 8 of us. Quiet street within short drive to shops & beaches. Outdoor deck, BBQ, pool table & yard was well used by all of us. Thank you
Linh D.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Ingrid W.
Jun 26, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Island Sands
Beautiful house and backyard fabulous for a dog.
We loved our stay.
Ingrid W.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
10/10 Excellent
Ann L.
Jun 16, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
lovely comfortable house
Very comfortable house, great backyard for the children, everything supplied, overall really enjoyed our stay.
Ann L.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
6/10 Okay
Carol E.
Mar 24, 2022
Disliked: Cleanliness
Always check the bedding!
The problem we had with this property was with the bed linen. The matrress protectors on all of the beds were filthy. Obvious staining, and general grubbiness and then the smell - ugh. The pillow protectors also were rank. We washed all the linen but the property did not have a dryer so we could not use them during our stay. We contacted the agents who advised us to buy new ones and we were reimbursed but it wasn't the best start to our holiday.
This is definitely not the fault of the agents and they were very helpful and empathetic. However the rest of the house could do with a good spring clean! Doubt we will stay there again.
Carol E.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2022
10/10 Excellent
ALEXANDRA G.
Jun 14, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Great getaway
We stayed here with family and totally enjoyed the facilities of the house, especially the outdoor setting, everything was local the best part was having the beaches close by thank you giving us that family time highly recommend.
ALEXANDRA G.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2021
10/10 Excellent
XIAOHAN Z.
May 9, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
good property
Good location,the property is clean and friendly for kids and pet. Love it
XIAOHAN Z.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021
8/10 Good
Bill C., Melbourne, Australia
Mar 19, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Comfortable entertainer
A great find, this charming beach house is ideal for a group of 6 or a family, ideal for entertaining in good weather, good facilities and everything you need is provided.
Bill C.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2021
10/10 Excellent
Rhonda S.
Mar 10, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing
Our stay at this property was wonderful. We can't wait until we can stay here again
Rhonda S.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2021
10/10 Excellent
Robyn B.
Dec 24, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Great holiday home
Lovely home in a quiet location. The Neighborbours were helpful and friendly. The house was clean when we arrived. The property had everything and more to cater for our holiday - from the pool table through to games for rainy days. Lovely outdoor area with a secure backyard for small children. Enough parking for 2 cars and our boat which we could park in the secure garage. We will definitely visit again.
Robyn B.
6/10 Okay
Alisa J., Coronet Bay, Victoria
Oct 5, 2020
Disliked: Cleanliness
Too much housework to do before you can relax - if they had the place clean it would be amazing
It is a real shame to write a review like this as it is a really lovely house in a quiet neighbourhood, but I would expect to arrive to a clean house and just relax, but that wasn't the case. I had to clean most kitchen and dining room surfaces inside and outside, as they were visibly dirty. We found a toenail clipping on the lounge room floor and an empty box of Cold sore cream just under the couch which was quite horrible to find. Rubbish had been left by another person in the kitchen pantry and it seems that it is your responsibility to clean up before the next person arrives rather than the house being professionally cleaned between visits?
The toilet seat is broken in the ensuite, so had to use the second bathroom instead.
I understand that things might be tough right now with what is happening with Covid, so maybe it is clean normally, but that wasn't our experience. If they get this cleaning situation sorted, we would definitely recommend it.
Alisa J.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2020
6/10 Okay
Vickie M.
Dec 28, 2019
Disliked: Cleanliness
A holiday with chores, no thanks!
Great house. Great decor.
Great communication.
I was a little disappointed about a few things. I’m by no means a clean freak or up to date with all my chores but it would’ve been nice to turn up and find a clean and no jobs to do at the holiday house.
Going away is suppose to be relaxing. Not a care in the world.
- the lawn could’ve been mowed. I did get a knock at the door at 10am one day of our holiday asking if they could mow the front and back. I’m on holidays and I was woken by a knock. They were lovely but it’s not appropriate.
- the key lock was left open
- the counters are sticky
- a billiard stick is broken but it was put together like it wasn’t - dodgy
- the inside bins had rubbish in it for me to empty if I want to use it which I didn’t. All rubbish was placed in the bins outside.
- dishes were left in the dishwasher for me to put away if I wanted to use the dishes and the dishwasher. I used some of the dishes and left what I didn’t. What I used I washed, dried and put them away.
- the sinks had rubbish left in them
- the seagull in the 2 single bed room has a broken beak which has been blutakked together.
- there was rubbish left under the couches and something has been leaked out the back of the couch of the billiard room
- if you feel the cold at night ( I don’t normally but I did here) pack an electric blanket for your bed. It was freezing.
We won’t be back. Just not clean enough for me. Sorry.
Vickie M.
10/10 Excellent
Emma R.
Oct 12, 2018
Amazing place to stay. Neat, tidy and clean
My partner and i stayed with another couple. It was a lovely place to get away. Close enough to Cowes it was about a 15 minute walk. And we were very lucky we had beautiful weather while we were there. Thank you for letting us stay in your beautiful home. Also the pool table was a hit. Hours of entertainment. I would definitely come back to stay.
Emma R.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2018
10/10 Excellent
Clara P.
Sep 16, 2018
Amazing
Everything about this place was amazing .
Location was great, close to everything. House was spotless and had everything you would need from board games, Xbox, pool tables and even had dog Bowles and beds for our dog. Can’t wait till we get a chance to come back.
Thank you Joel and Bernadette for making our getaway amazing .
Clara P.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2018
10/10 Excellent
Rebecca N.
Jul 24, 2018
Perfect house for a weekend get away! Thanks
We loved the house and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. I would love to come back in Summer. Perfect setting with heaps to do around Philip Island. We even managed to see 2 Southern right whales, 2 hump backs and dolphins on our whale watching trip, it was amazing. The house was perfect and we loved the fact that we could bring our dog, there were plenty of games and movies and even bikes to ride in the garage. Thank you to our hosts, we will be back.
Rebecca N.
8/10 Good
Shireen C.
Jun 26, 2018
Fully modern and comfortable place
The rooms were comfortable. The pool table was a blast with the kids. The different spaces were great for a family with 4 kids to move around in. We really enjoyed the space.