the sanctuary
The Sanctuary, Bayside’s newest property, opened in April 2025. Set on expansive acreage just a short stroll from the Marion Bay Tavern and jetty, this private retreat is designed exclusively for couples seeking space, seclusion, and a luxurious connection to nature - only minutes from Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park.
Thoughtfully created for two, The Sanctuary blends hotel-style comfort with wabi-sabi design, featuring reclaimed materials, earthy textures, and curated styling by Homes by Penny Crompton.
Whether it’s slow mornings by the fire in winter or golden sunsets on the deck in summer, The Sanctuary is a place to reconnect - with nature, with each other, and with yourself.
We proudly showcase handmade touches and locally sourced materials from across the Yorke Peninsula and South Australia.
The Bedroom
A dreamy, spacious bedroom straight out of your Pinterest dreams. It features a king-sized MicroCloud mattress, crafted for 5-star luxury and comfort, paired with the softest linen bedding from Eco Downunder and Eadie Lifestyle.
The room is complete with air conditioning for your comfort and opens to your beautifully appointed bathroom. Cosy up with a book on the window seat, or bask in the pink hues of the sunset over the adjoining farm.
The Bathroom
A luxurious bathing experience is a new addition to Bayside, and The Sanctuary’s bathroom takes it to the next level. Designed with the footprint of a large bedroom, this spacious retreat blends indulgence with spa-like serenity. It captures the essence of outdoor bathing while keeping you comfortable indoors, with glass sliders and screen doors that invite the fresh sea breeze and night sky.
Thoughtfully curated for ultimate relaxation, it features MicroCloud luxury hotel robes, Eco Downunder organic cotton bath sheets, and premium amenities - including Natural Look shampoo and conditioner, Nēktar hand and body wash and lotion, and a beautifully scented bubble bath. After your soak, step onto the deck to enjoy a coffee, tea, or a glass of bubbles.
Toilet
For added comfort, the toilet is tucked away in its own private room.
Sauna & Outdoor shower
Slow down and unwind in your private outdoor infrared sauna, overlooking the paddock and our resident horses. Enjoy the sunset views, connect to Bluetooth or settle into our specially curated Bayside playlist, then cool off beneath the nearby outdoor shower.
Living Area
The living space seamlessly blends the lounge, dining, kitchen, and fireplace into one inviting area, creating the perfect atmosphere for relaxation and connection.
After a day of exploring, unwind by the crackling fire in winter, surrounded by soft lighting and cosy furnishings. It’s an ideal space to settle in with a board game, indulge in a delicious cheese platter, and savour a glass of Barley Stacks Wines’ exquisite rosé, included as a complimentary treat. Whether you're enjoying intimate conversations, sharing a meal, or simply relaxing with the warmth of the fire, this space offers an inviting blend of warmth, connection, and pure comfort.
Kitchen
Our kitchen is fully equipped with all the essentials for a comfortable getaway. It includes a fridge and freezer, a two-burner gas stove, a dishwasher, and a Nespresso coffee machine with Barossa Coffee Roasters' compostable coffee pods.
You’ll also find Saha Botanicals loose-leaf teas, as well as coffee, sugar, tea bags, and 200ml of milk. We provide all the glasses, plates, platters, and serve ware you’ll need for dining. Plus, don’t forget - you also have an additional kitchen in the hut for extra convenience.
As a special welcome, we’ve included some local treats for you to enjoy during your stay: a bottle of Barley Stacks Wine rosé, two Watsacowie beers, and a serve of chocolate-dipped citrus.
Deck
The Sanctuary features three decks, with the main deck offering plenty of space for outdoor dining and lounging. Enjoy your coffee while watching the sunrise over the bay, or relax at any time of day - whether you're soaking up the sun or seeking shade as it moves across the sky.
Lawn
Lush lawns are a rare sight in Marion Bay, but we wanted to create the perfect space for picnics, Finska, and ring toss. To maintain a green space year-round despite the dry conditions, we chose TifTuf – a drought-tolerant grass (tougher than me, Tiff!), known for its ability to stay vibrant throughout the year.
Firepit
You asked, and we’ve listened! We've received many requests for a firepit at our other properties, and while it isn’t feasible there, we’ve incorporated it into the design at The Sanctuary.
Enjoy the firepit during the off-season (please note, it’s not available for use between November 1st and April 30th due to fire restrictions). Some firewood is supplied, with the option to purchase more.
Hut
Taking inspiration from our Tiny House hut, a guest favourite, we’ve designed The Sanctuary’s hut with a few thoughtful improvements.
This fully sealed hut offers a cosy escape from the elements, keeping you snug in winter and cool in summer, with the option to open up and enjoy the breeze. Inside, unwind in the resort-style lounge with a book, a glass of wine, and a cheese platter. We’ve also moved our “outdoor kitchen” indoors, opting for an indoor electric Ninja BBQ that lets you grill, bake, roast, and air-fry with ease.
Bikes:
Bikes and helmets are provided, allowing you to explore the charming town of Marion Bay at your leisure.
Bikes:
Bikes and helmets are provided, allowing you to explore the charming town of Marion Bay at your leisure.
Gathering at The Sanctuary, for up to 6 people:
Host an unforgettable gathering at The Sanctuary, where you and your Bayside guests can relax and connect in a stunning coastal setting. Enjoy evenings around the outdoor firepit, share meals in the spacious entertaining area, and cosy up by the indoor fireplace. Perfect for intimate celebrations, friend getaways, or simply making memories together in style.
To make your gathering even more special, we can help organise catering, including indulgent cheese platters, fresh seafood spreads, and beautifully crafted personalised cakes, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience for you and your guests.
The only hard part? Deciding who will be staying at The Sanctuary, the Glamping Tent, and the Tiny House!
built with love:
The Sanctuary is more than just a place to stay - it’s a dream thoughtfully brought to life by Tiff, the founder of Bayside Glamping, alongside her dad, George, and partner, Luke.
Drawing on George’s decades of experience and passion for sustainable, zero-waste building, Luke’s natural talent for landscaping, and Tiff’s creative thinking and deep desire to create the ultimate couple’s retreat, every detail has been considered with care.
With the design expertise of Homes By Penny Crompton, their combined skills and deep connection to the town of Marion Bay and its close-knit community have shaped something truly unforgettable - a retreat that invites you to slow down, reconnect, and feel completely at home.
A note from Tiff:
“This space holds so much of my heart. It’s not just somewhere to stay - it’s a reflection of the people and place I love love most. I hope you feel the care that’s gone into every detail, and that The Sanctuary becomes a special part of your story too.”
A special thanks to the South Australian Tourism Commission for the funding from the Experience Nature Tourism Grant. We greatly appreciate the support towards this project and look forward to welcoming more visitors to our region, introducing them to the stunning Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park.
What our guests have to say about the sanctuary
What our guests have to say about the sanctuary
Photos captured by Annie Beth Photography, Heidi Who Photography, Take Us With You and Hannah and Jarrad Redden.