Gloucester, Massachusetts
Location x3! This classic, cozy, waterfront cottage that sits on a private beach overlooking the Annisquam River in Gloucester, MA (45 min drive north of Boston). Nine foot tides provide for a dynamic scenery and activities with a back drop of marshes, Wingaersheek beach, and the quaint seaside village of Annisquam. At low tide, the beach is immediately accessible via a staircase and walkway. At high tide, water rises all the way under the house. All this can be experienced on a full wrap-around deck with a screened in porch and ample seating for dining, sunbathing, and lounging.
The home itself is a former duck hunting cottage sitting waterside atop stilts. The interior has a vintage feel with wood, bright colors, and ample natural light throughout. Provided are all the necessities for your perfect New England vacation - beach chairs, beach towels, and more. High tide water reaches under the deck with a parade of boats, beaches, and crystal clear blue water in full view. Beach, fish, swim, float, unwind, and have fun!
Our family has rented our home to countless families, couples, and travelers for many summer seasons. Here is what past guests have had to say:
"This seaside cottage is pure magic. It is everything it appears to be in the photos, is super comfortable, and with an amazing location right on the water where boats pass and birds fish and the air is fresh. We had a memorable happy time here with our young boys and their grandparents. Totally hope to come back, and definitely recommend to people seeking quiet comfort by the seashore." - Stephanie
“Jean’s place is awesome! The location/view is incredible. Sitting on the porch, sipping coffee in the mornings and wine in the evening was so relaxing. Was able to go kayaking in the Harbor out front. The house is adorable and perfectly furnished. You won't be disappointed! Thanks Jean.” - Mike
"Our family loved our stay at Jean’s place. The home is unique, charming and everything you’d expect from the photos. The views from the porch are tranquil and will consume your whole day! Jean was a fabulous host and very much made us feel at home. Gloucester is a great little town... make sure you also get to Rockport! 5 out of 5 and would recommend it for couples and families!" - Bill
Seasonally, the peak summer months are July and August when the sun is out and the weather trends around 80. June and September often are equally as beautiful but have a higher chance of colder/rainy weather. May and October can be on the cooler side, but are when the house is most cozy with the heat and fire place on.
Children are welcome, but must be vigilantly watched at all times due to the house’s waterfront location. Pets are family too and are welcome for an additional $100 fee (for cleaning service), provided they are well trained and are good with other dogs as there are many in the neighborhood. Coming by boat We can accommodate vessels up to 15 feet on our half tide mooring or otherwise refer you to a mooring with the local yacht club.
For activities, Cape Ann is a top summer destination with a variety of dining, outdoors, and sightseeing options. The closest major beaches are Wingaersheek and Good Harbor. We are also happy to recommend to you our favorite spots around town.
THIS HOUSE IS NOT FOR EVERYONE. Please note the following if you are going to book:
- This is an old house without creature comforts (no AC, dishwasher, laundry, only one bathroom).
- It is - As with being near a beach/marsh in any New England town, there are greenhead flies and midges/gnats outdoors
- It can get hot in the summer. With an ocean breeze it tends to be ~10 degrees cooler than the mainland. There are tons of windows and fans for circulation. The ocean is steps away for a nice dip. But if you can't sleep with all the windows open or without AC, please do not book with us.
Third visit and can’t get enough of this sweet house! The view is the best on Cape Ann. Cozy, charming location. Woke up everyday to paddling and gazing at the sea! Great hosts! Excellent communication! See you next year!
We had a great short visit. The property is right on a private black sand beach, with ample opportunity to swim or use kayaks, paddle board, and more. My kids loved finding hermit crabs and playing with the incoming tide. The screened porch is a great spot to watch the boat traffic, especially at sunset with a beverage of choice. It is easy to get to shopping, restaurants, and attractions. Gloucester has it all. One note - and it is called out in the listing - is this is a tiny home with one toilet and shower, with some steep stairs to the property entrance as well as to the second floor. Those with mobility challenges will find this property inaccessible. Think more on the rustic side. That said, we were comfortable and enjoyed ourselves.
It happened to be cold and rainy to start for our second stay here but wonderful nonetheless. Warm and toasty with the wood stove going and enjoying the priceless view. Right on the water you can’t help but feel you’re on vacation. The home is charming with everything you might need to prepare meals. We preferred to stay in, bringing in take out a couple of nights. The water is so calming and magical.
Love this place! Super charming! Cozy! Best location! Already booked for our third year in 2023! Communication with owners timely and easy. Went out to dinner once and my hub and I decided that there’s really no need to ever leave that screened in porch. The view and comfort of the house is the best on Cape Ann! Paddling and kayaking is perfect- just a short paddle to my fav beach in New England. Thanks Jean and Austen!
You can’t get any closer to the water! At high tide, I could be sitting in the screened-in porch and carry on a conversation with my kids swimming in the water. Loved the vintage feel of the cottage! We enjoyed every moment of our time, the sunset views filled the sky, and can’t wait to return next year.
Austen was very responsive and helpful. The views are worth what the property is lacking, like a/c and some screened windows/doors to allow the breeze to cool the place with only fans. There are some property improvements that could be made for sure, but it really is all about the view, so if you love being right on the water and watching the wildlife and boats go by this is a great place. Again, Austen was always easily available to answer questions and give suggestions. Easy to get to grocery store, liquor store, pharmacy and restaurants. Four stars only because of lack of screens, cracked windows and dusty fans.
We appreciated the historic charm of this lovely house. It had everything we needed for our stay and we truly miss hearing the ocean tide coming in and out every day. It was close enough to town but far enough away to feel secluded and truly away from the city.
We had a great girls week at this beautiful typical New England cottage. Kitchen fully equipped, comfortable beds and furniture with a beautiful view! We’ will return!
Lovely view from porch. Can hear Wingaersheek ocean waves on quiet early morning. Austen very responsive and helpful. Very cramped quarters, steep stairs, stubborn latches/key--not suitable for seniors. Cleanliness did not meet expectations; e.g., cellophane wrappers, candy and dirt between downstairs bed and wall. The jewel is the view.
Wonderful cottage in a location that is simply amazing! My husband, two sons and our dog & I stayed for nearly a week (not long enough!) and had a wonderful time. The screened porch is where you will want to spend all your time! Just fantastic views. Owners are fabulous to work with and very responsive. Definitely plan to return!
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