beachychick

One of the few beachside communities that is next to the beach and doesn't have a big road running through the middle of it. Instead the village square has a plethora of cafes, takeaways and restaurants with top-quality food from all major cuisines. Interspersed are clothing shops and knick-knacks priced for the rich tourists but always worth a look.

Lovely kids playground, BBQs and skate park that all get a regular work-out. Fortnightly markets that have to be the best quality on the coast. And the fortnightly concert that brings all walks of life out for a general picnic / dance and catch up with friends.

Great for residents as it feels like a holiday and yet, great schools (public and private) supermarkets and motorway all close by

I was initially hesitant about being home alone all the time with a baby. But having Southbank, Botanical Gardens and Kangaroo Pt in easy walking distance, I never felt alone; it was just so easy to get out for a walk. Plus when he got older, we had great playgrounds, a beach, and a water-play area all within a kilometre radius. (plus some great cafes for me!!)

Public transport has been great with the Mater Hill busway so close. The ferry stop is great for getting into town quickly and not taking a car.

The apartments are probably too small once kids need lots of room to roam. Then again, there are lots of school age kids in the block who obviously enjoy living so close to parks too.

Only downside has been lack of visitor parking; the roadside parking fills up fast on weekends and holidays so friends often have trouble finding a space. Also, you can sometimes here the music from town concerts but is not usually too much of an issue