1945 Coastal Retreat, 5-Acre Estate, Tower + Dock

We had a wonderful stay to celebrate our daughter’s graduation! This property has everything !! A dock with access to an inter coastal waterway, a incredible open deck on a high point with 360 degree views, beautiful ocean view and beach access, multiple decks and porches, comfortable living room and fully equipped kitchen ! Perfect! Highly recommend !

I have been to all types of beach houses in NC for the last 40 years and can say hands down that there is nothing else out there that remotely comes close to the experience of Folly Hills. We took the whole family down for a week and had an amazing time enjoying the views from the highest point on the island, exploring the walks through the maritime forest, fishing and crabbing off the private dock, and just lounging out on the patio overlooking the ocean which felt almost Mediterranean. That’s not to mention the fact that there’s nothing between you and the ocean. Maybe best off all was the experience of being in this historic home that has stood the test of time and has clearly evolved over the decades to be both very comfortable and very functional. We were as busy as could be having a total blast all week long. If you want a cookie cutter beach mansion, look elsewhere! If you want an unforgettable experience, I promise you will never compare Folly Hills to any other beach house. 5 stars aren’t enough!

When we pulled into the driveway of Folly Hills, we knew we had arrived at a place of magic and wonder. The view from the driveway alone could have been a postcard from a beach in La Jolla. Never have we stayed in a rental where we enjoyed pulling the trash to the curb! Entering the home was a warm and welcoming experience. The appointments throughout the house have been carefully executed; combining traditional and eclectic styles to create a perfect combination for comfort and relaxation. We thought long and hard throughout our trip about which door was the original front door of the house. I suspect everybody has a different opinion on this, but the truth is that it doesn’t matter which door is chosen. Every door in this home calls for friends and family to gather and celebrate. The sliding glass doors open to a deck and patio area that overlook the sound. The waterway will call you. From the kitchen door, there is the exceedingly difficult choice of whether to turn left to the waterway steps, straight to the watchtower, or right to the beach vista. Any direction you choose will lead you to the most beautiful views and rejuvenating experience. The office door leads to the screened patio, which boasts the most mystical skylines on the east coast. Don’t miss the moon rising amidst the starry night and cool breeze. Pure enchantment. On rainy days, be sure to check out the books on the table near the fireplace and learn about the rich history of the Capel family. The house is well stocked with games and puzzles, but perhaps our most favorite part about our days indoors was listening to the sound of the rain on the red tin roof. Turn your favorite tunes on the Sonos system, breathe, and your soul will fly. Speaking of doors, if there’s something about your stay that isn’t up to your standards, we challenge you to pick any door, step in or out, and let your heart fill with gratitude for the masterpiece on which you are standing. Perhaps the best gift about this property is that the Capel family have shared it with us. The pictures don’t, and can never, do this home justice. Those who are lucky enough to find this listing should feed their inner rock stars and book this property. No regrets on this one whatsoever.

This was our second summer at Folly Hills. Our family enjoyed this trip even more this summer as we were familiar with the home. The owners continue to make repairs and upgrades (like the new stairs to the watch tower, expanded Sonos system). Schuyler is an awesome host ~ quick to assist in every need our family had. Awesome, well equipped kitchen for cooking your favorite family meals. We enjoyed our morning breakfast on the screened in front porch sitting together at the large round table. This 75 year old beach cottage may not have the “glitz” of other rentals but the tranquility you’ll find here is what we love about this home. Looking forward to next summer!

Visited Folly Hills with the family this summer. We felt the owners opened their home to our family, not like a typical rental house. The property is a jewel - the views alone are worth the price of admission. We were excited about the stretch of beach that beckoned sea turtles to come ashore and nest-there were several and we were fortunate enough to see #150. We have already requested Folly Hills for a visit next summer. Jeff & Celeste

This house is a typical home of the 1945 era. Heart of pine floors, wood paneling, original wooden shutters. There have been some additions and changes. The wood furniture is old and could use some wax or lemon oil to help them (don't try to open then could break). Beds are comfortable and strong ceiling fans in the rooms. But even with three A/C units the difference per area is very noticeable. Kitchen thermometer says it is at least 80F by mid day. Bathrooms are very small. A few spiders and roaches, but to be expected in such an old home. 60 steps down and up to the path to the marsh dock. Great to paddle board or kayak from there. Beach is very accessible across the street. Decks are older so wear shoes to avoid flip flops. Oh, and don't forget to take pictures of the place when you arrive and leave. The owner tried to say that we had a brawl in the house (were were 4 people)... said we stained a couch and chair, broke the +74 yr old shutters, and two table legs. Quite unsettling and ridiculous.