MAXIMISE YOUR RENTAL RETURN: ESSENTIAL FEATURES EVERY AUSTRALIAN HOLIDAY HOME BACKYARD SHOULD HAVE
- Luxury Pools + Oudoor Living
- Mar 4
- 6 min read
Expert Central Coast Property Advice from Spring Buyers Agency
PRESENTED BY
Featured Property | Coastal Cool North Avoca
When it comes to holiday homes in Australia, location, lifestyle, and design are key factors that drive demand. A well-designed backyard plays a significant role in maximising the rental return on a holiday property. With expert advice from Spring Buyers Agency Linda Johnson and Michelle Tucker, we explore the essential backyard features every holiday home should have to create a sought-after property for both rental income and owner enjoyment.
The Appeal of the Australian Coastal Lifestyle
Australia’s coastal lifestyle is a major drawcard for holidaymakers. Visitors flock to iconic beach destinations, drawn to the relaxed vibe and year-round outdoor living. For those looking to buy or rent holiday homes, it’s not just about the property—it’s about creating an experience. As Michelle Tucker explains:
“A lot of holiday home buyers are looking to invest in properties that offer an experience they can’t get in their everyday lives. Proximity to the beach is, of course, a big factor, but the lifestyle is equally important. People want to wake up, hit the beach in the morning, then come home and relax by the pool or entertain in the backyard in the afternoon. That’s what the Australian holiday vibe is all about.”
So, how do you ensure your holiday home is appealing to renters and buyers? The answer lies in creating a seamless indoor-outdoor living space that complements the coastal lifestyle. Here’s how you can do that:
1. The Pool: A Must-Have for Holiday Homes
If there’s one feature that stands out, it’s the pool. For many, a holiday home without a concrete pool is simply not an option. Pools are consistently at the top of renters' wish lists, and for good reason. Linda Johnson says,
“Homes with pools are the most popular among holidaymakers. It’s not just a luxury, it’s an essential part of the holiday experience. Having a pool in your backyard offers endless opportunities for relaxation, entertainment, and family fun. If you’re planning to rent your property out, a pool can help your listing stand out from the competition.”
Not only does a pool offer a space for leisure, but it also adds to the visual appeal of the property. A stunning pool area can transform your backyard into a resort-style retreat, creating that “holiday vibe” everyone is after.

2. Indoor-Outdoor Flow: A Space for Entertaining
Holidaymakers are not just looking for a place to sleep; they want a space to live, entertain, and relax. Easy flow between the indoor and outdoor areas is crucial for creating a seamless experience.
“Holiday homes need to offer space for gatherings, both indoors and outdoors,” explains Michelle Tucker. “The ideal setup includes an open-plan living area that spills out onto a spacious patio, deck, or courtyard with comfortable seating and a dining area. This makes it perfect for hosting family meals or enjoying drinks by the pool after a day at the beach.”
Think about creating multiple zones for different activities—whether it’s a BBQ area, an outdoor lounge for cocktails, or a covered dining area for outdoor family meals. When designing your outdoor space, prioritise comfort and functionality to make it the perfect place to entertain guests.

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3. Separate Zones for Adults and Kids
As holiday homes are often family-centric, the integration of separate spaces for children and adults is becoming more popular. Families want to have areas where the adults can relax and socialise outdoors, while still keeping an eye on the kids as they play in the pool.
“With the rise of outdoor living, families want to enjoy their time together while also having the flexibility to unwind separately,” says Linda Johnson. “For example, having a pool area where parents can lounge in the sun while kids swim is a perfect scenario. Having a safe, enclosed area where children can play—whether it’s a sandpit, a playhouse, or a lawn area—is also crucial for creating a family-friendly holiday home.”
This type of zoning helps create a sense of balance and gives both adults and children the space they need to enjoy their holiday.

4. Low Maintenance Landscaping
A big part of the Australian outdoor lifestyle is simplicity. Holidaymakers don’t want to spend their time on garden maintenance. Instead, they want to enjoy a beautiful, easy-to-care-for space that they can relax in without much fuss.
“When designing a backyard for a holiday home, it’s important to think about low-maintenance landscaping,” advises Michelle Tucker. “Native plants, drought-resistant gardens, and artificial grass are all great options. Not only do they look beautiful, but they require less upkeep, which is ideal for owners who rent out their properties or those who are only visiting occasionally.”
Consider using materials like composite decking or stone pavers that are both stylish and practical for outdoor areas. This ensures your backyard remains looking pristine without requiring constant attention.


5. Children’s Bedrooms with En-Suites and Walk-In Robes
The demand for luxury features doesn’t stop at the outdoor space. Inside the home, holidaymakers are increasingly looking for upgraded bedrooms that cater to families.
“In our experience, many holiday home buyers are looking for features like en-suite bathrooms and walk-in robes in children’s bedrooms,” explains Linda Johnson. “This type of layout creates a sense of luxury and privacy, allowing everyone to enjoy their own space while still being together as a family.”
This trend towards more spacious, private areas for children is part of a broader desire for homes that feel more like resorts than traditional suburban properties. It’s all about creating a special, holiday-like experience for everyone in the family.
6. Create a Resort-Style Experience
Ultimately, holiday home buyers and renters are looking for properties that make them feel like they’re on a constant vacation.
“People want their holiday home to feel like a getaway, not just another house,” says Michelle Tucker. “The key is to create an environment that feels luxurious, comfortable, and separate from everyday life. Features like a private pool, outdoor kitchen, and spacious living areas all contribute to that resort-style feeling.”
By integrating high-end finishes, stylish furniture, and thoughtful design, you can create a truly special place that people are excited to rent—and return to year after year.
Conclusion: Invest in Lifestyle, Maximise Your Return
When designing your Australian holiday home backyard, the goal should be to create a space that feels like a retreat from the everyday. Essential features like a pool, seamless indoor-outdoor flow, kid-friendly zones, and low-maintenance landscaping are all critical to meeting the needs of holidaymakers and boosting rental returns.
By investing in lifestyle-focused design, you’ll not only create a property that stands out in a crowded market, but you’ll also ensure your guests have a memorable holiday experience. After all, a happy guest is more likely to return, and return customers are the key to maximising your rental income in the long run.
Explore a world of endless pool possibilities, from stunning infinity edge pools and sleek lap pools to luxurious resort-style designs. At Luxury Pools and Outdoor Living, we specialise in designing and building custom concrete pools and outdoor spaces on the Central Coast. Contact us today on (02) 4304 1638 for your complimentary consultation!
Featured Products & Brands :
Project - Coastal Cool North Avoca | Design & Build by Luxury Pools & Outdoor Living
Ezarri - Carrara Marble Mosaic Tiles from Europe Imports | https://www.instagram.com/ezarri_mosaics/ https://www.instagram.com/europeimportspds/
Millboard - Smoked Oak Enhanced Grain Decking | https://www.instagram.com/millboard_live_life_outside/
Dimension One - Custom white spigots, aluminium caping and frameless glass pool fencing
Artisan Exteriors - Rounds steppers and Matala Limestone pavers | https://www.instagram.com/artisanexterior.au/
Knotwood - Aluminium battan fencing | https://www.instagram.com/knotwoodaustralia/
Remco - In-floor pool cover | https://www.instagram.com/remcopoolcovers/
Naked Pools - Fresh water pool filtration system | https://www.instagram.com/nakedpools/
Cooke Industries - In-floor cleaning system | https://www.instagram.com/cookeindustries
Havit - Exterior garden lights and wall lights from Avoca Lighting | https://www.instagram.com/havitlighting/ https://www.instagram.com/avoca_lighting/
Sunbrella - Outdoor upholstery fabric for custom made daybed and seating | https://www.instagram.com/sunbrella/#
Gosford Quarries - Sandstone retaining blocks | https://www.instagram.com/gosfordquarries/
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