The Werri Beach Fish Shop, located at 29 Pacific Avenue, Werri Beach is on the market for the first time in nearly 20 years.

A popular spot for both locals and tourists, this property is set directly across the road from the beach.

The freehold site consists of the takeaway fish shop at the front of the premises, along with a three-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home at the rear. Both are included in the sale.

Read more: Sydney buyer snaps up property near Gerringong for $5.6 million

Long-time owners Don and Maree Smith said it had been a privilege to have been a part of the business' history.

"I like the personal contact with the people," Mr Smith said.

"The work itself is good work. It's hard, but it's good work. But the people that you meet are the most enjoyable part of this job."

Mr Smith said they had established a loyal clientele.

"We've got a regular group that comes from Goulburn every couple of weeks," he said.

"They bring their little bottle of wine, they sit down and have their fish and chips, and they drive home again."

An English couple, the Pikes, opened the fish shop in the mid-60s, running it out of the front window of the first holiday cabin on the property now for sale.

It was known then as the "hole in the wall".

However, in 1974 the building was destroyed by fire, then rebuilt.

Nowadays, shop patrons can enjoy a meal in the front alfresco dining area, while a private courtyard is set off the main home.

The private residence is set over two levels with the main floor offering a spacious kitchen and dining zone that spills out to a large entertaining deck.

A living room is located on the second floor and has been crafted to showcase the views over Werri Beach.

The property is Zoned B1 Neighbourhood.

Other features include a detached workshop, a storage area and a studio on the ground level.

Mr Smith said they were selling in order to retire.

"I'm doing 75 hours a week, and I'm 67 - it's time to retire," he said.

"We'll stay in the area... I will be sad to see it go - it's been a big part of our lives.

"I think a family would be able to run it quite well.

"If there was a husband and wife and a couple of kids, maybe as an after school type of thing, that's half your staffing."

The selling agent is Danielle Harris from Raine & Horne Shoalhaven Heads.

Ms Harris said the price guide was available upon request.

"It's a great chance for a sea change," she said.

"I've had a lot of inquiries from the Sydney market, where they may be in the restaurant or cafe industry, but they see this is a really nice opportunity to get out of the city.

"It's an iconic business."

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