Reviews for Cedar Island Vacation Rental - VRBO 49831 - 2 BR Central Coast House in NC, Pet Friendly, Waterfront Retreat on NC'S Southern Outer Bank

Loved Pelican's Rest!

Guest Pup Pup's Mom
Date of stay 04/28/13
Review Submitted 05/10/13

I and my best friend of 35 years chose to celebrate a very special birthday at Pelican's Rest.We thoroughly enjoyed our stay, though we wish it could have been longer! Steve Johnson is a fantastic host, and made sure we had everything we needed, including loaning us garlic powder. The property is lovely and the accommodations are exactly as described in the listing. We highly recommend Pelican's Rest for a peaceful place to rejuvenate.

Recommended for: Age 55+, girls getaway, pet owners.

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Easter escape from DC

Guest TheFootballDuke
Date of stay 03/29/13
Review Submitted 04/11/13

My wife and I have 2 Samoyeds (50 pound, fluffy dogs). So the first filter in a vacation rental search is always the 'pet friendly' option. We were looking for somewhere to drive over Easter weekend, get way from the city, and hopefully be on a beach. When we stumbled across Pelican's Rest, it was as if Steve had written the ad TO US. In our email exchanges, I told him it seemed too good to be true (on the beach, dogs more than welcome, no extra fees of any kind). Turns out it was as advertised. We got in at about 4am on Saturday after a long drive. Light was on, and it was the only one in the area so that helped us find the front door. And just to be sure, Steve had left a note on the front door welcoming us. I was up early enough in the morning to step out onto the deck and see the sun rise over the water... and we got 3 days doing exactly what we'd hoped: not much. Steve let us build a little campfire in the front year near the water (and it sounds like he might actually be getting a legit fire pit soon since folks apparently are fond of doing the front yard fire thing), we made bloody marys, strolled to the local store for supplies, drove about 5 min. to the nearby beach and had it pretty much to ourselves (i.e. dogs off leashes, thank you very much!) and did the beach both days actually. My wife was pleased. I was happy. The dogs were content. I'm hoping we'll have the time to scoot back down next Easter and see the new fire pit. Maybe we'll even get around to using the jacuzzi, pool and/or canoe next time...

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Owner response: Thank you for the very kind words. It is easy when we have such nice guests. Our pooches miss yours.

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The Definition of Peace......

Guest Terry K.
Date of stay 08/25/12
Review Submitted 09/19/12

at least for me. My time at Pelicans Rest was perfect! My whippets and me spent time quietly - I read on the deck, got hot, went in the pool, and repeat! The pups chased geckos, butterflies, and laid in the sun. My cell phone didn't work and that is just what I needed. Steve and Daniele were just wonderful, there if i needed them and wonderful kind people. Pelican's Rest is my kind of Paradise. We will be back!! Terry and the 4 whippets.

Recommended for: Age 55+, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway.

Owner response: Thank you and thank all the others for the kind remarks! It's fun doing this with the very nice guests we have. Re cell phone service: if yours does not work here and you need phones, we'll loan you one of our land line phones. Our Verison works well but the phone itself is also a factor. WiFi is very reliable.

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retreat from the city beat

Guest worldboytravels
Date of stay 08/11/12
Review Submitted 09/02/12

What a fantastic place to stay!! The suite was more than sufficient, there were great amenities too. Steve and Danielle are excellent hosts.... just the right kind of hospitality here. The seafood that you got yourself was delicious.... there were fresh prawns, clams, crabs etc available easily. The pool and hot tub were amazing. It was quiet and peaceful, nature at its best. Beautiful sunrises on the horizon greeted us every morning. T

Recommended for: People with disabilities, age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Ideal family vacation

Guest Christine
Date of stay 07/21/12
Review Submitted 08/05/12

My husband, children (ages 7, 8, and 10), and our 100 lb. German shepherd (Steve & Danielle are REALLY pet friendly) just returned from a 7 day stay at Pelican's Rest. We tend to spend our vacations on the go, but this was the first time that we found more enjoyment by staying put. Our kids loved the pool (it's huge!) and searching in the sound for hermit crabs and clams (they were so preoccupied they never once played on the Wii that was provided in their room). The view is amazing! You can watch the sunrise over the water from the bedroom. The suite is beautiful and spacious. Steve and Danielle have gone above and beyond to ensure that their guests have a wonderful experience. Don't miss out on an opportunity to ask for their opinions on local cuisine or places to go (using Steve's advice my husband was able to discover some of the best pork BBQ at Roland's in Beaufort). They were always available and easy to access by phone, email, or in person. They also worked to make sure that they didn't intrude, and we felt like we had the whole place to ourselves. Just remember to bring some bug spray for the mosquitoes. There are more out after it rains, but whatever spray that Steve used on the property greatly reduced them. I hate bugs, and so do the kids, but the mosquitoes weren’t so bad as to deter us from spending time outside. We couldn’t have asked for a more family friendly, secluded, or relaxing location. We would highly recommend this as a fantastic place to vacation. We definitely plan to return in the future.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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What a great vacation!

Guest mevangaa
Date of stay 07/20/12
Review Submitted 08/29/12

This is the ideal place to stay if visiting cedar island or staying over for a ferry trip. All the amenities of a 5 star hotel but with the quaint bed and breakfast feel. The property was amazing. Its great to take the canoe or kayak out to explore the great water view out in front or just relax by the pool and hot tub. Its a short drive away from the Ocracoke ferry and close enough to ferry services to see Cape Lookout and other core bank islands. The house was amazing! You can see the water from the master bedroom and the living area. The house was well updated with technology from this century, unlike crummy hotel chains. It was a great home away from home. The owners are available if you have questions but quietly tucked away if you don't. The mosquitoes are not bad unless it rains but they are kept under control by the owner and the county spraying the property. Didn't see a single mosquito until our last day after a full night of rain. If you are looking for a relaxing and quiet place to stay this it!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Wonderful, relaxing stay

Guest SandyCifr
Date of stay 06/25/12
Review Submitted 07/02/12

If you are in search of a quiet and relaxing vacation, I would highly recommend Pelican's Rest. The view is stunning, the birdlife is incredible, the hosts could not be more accommodating. Buying fish right off the boats was amazing. The pool and hot tub was a nice amenity. We will be recommending to our friends and intend to return.

Recommended for: Age 55+, pet owners, romantic getaway.

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What a view!

Guest Jess
Date of stay 06/18/12
Review Submitted 06/23/12

All we did was sit and look at the view all day! Beautiful! The dogs loved the yard and the sound. Very remote but oh so worth the drive! We were so at peace for our 4 days there. Great getaway from the city life. Much needed peace and rest. The kitchen is well equipped and we found the space quite adequate. The big bed is very comfortable and nice. The decor is very well done and lovely. We did not want to leave and I know the dogs did not either. Wish we could have used the hot tub but the pool felt great on a hot afternoon. My only complaint (which is my own fault) would be not taking bug spray for the mosquitos. That was my fault, not the owner's. Come and see for yourself!

Recommended for: Age 55+, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway.

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Absolutely fabulous!

Guest Karen G.
Date of stay 05/01/12
Review Submitted 05/05/12

Just got back from a three night stay at Pelican's Rest. It's as good as it sounds!! Quiet, restful, and the dogs loved it. Steve and Danielle have thought of everything to make your visit pleasant. The place is spotless, the hot tub relaxing, and I was able to rake for clams right in the bay!! I would recommend this vacation spot to anyone who wishes to get away from it all and enjoy the quiet, the wildlife, and the local people. We will definately return.

Recommended for: Age 55+, pet owners, romantic getaway.

Owner response: Awww shucks...you guys are too nice. Thanks for leaving the place so nice. Sorry we only got to see you as you were heading to the ferry. Other reviewers...we didn't realize we could comment. Thanks for your kind words also! And, also for leaving the place so nice...everyone does!

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Relaxing and peaceful! Perfect!!

Guest arunashany
Date of stay 04/05/12
Review Submitted 04/09/12

My wife and I were looking for a weekend getaway, to kick back, relax, and not think about work. Our stay at Pelican's rest was exactly what we were looking for! Peaceful, great food (BBQ), hot tub, movies...it was the perfect weekend experience. We are definitely interested in going back again soon. The owners are great people, very friendly and helpful!

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Great home base for kayaking

Guest Kim
Date of stay 03/22/12
Review Submitted 03/28/12

We had a great time. Owners very accommodating. Great to be able to launch kayaks right from the front yard.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, pet owners, romantic getaway.

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Wonderful Cedar Island

Guest Ken and Dot
Date of stay 02/09/12
Review Submitted 02/13/12

We had a wonderful time at Pelican's Rest even in the off season. The first night we sat in the hot tub and watched the moom raise over the sound...beautiful. Also the stars without all the city lights was awesome to see. The next two nights, the temperature dropped and we enjoyed the fireplace. Plenty of wood was provided. Our hosts also put in a new television with Netflix, so between the fire place and TV it was great. The host's description of their place is accurate. We did not get to eat at the island's only restaurant since it was closed for the season. But we drove into Beaufort and had a very good meal at the Stillwater Cafe. Were able to watch dolphins play as we ate our meal. There is a small store, kind of like a 7-11 store, but with hardware, gifts, many other sundry items in case you forgot anything. They do have ice cream and its only a quarter mile walk from Pelican's rest. When the host's say they are pet friendly, they truly are. They love their dog and cats and any that you bring. They even watched our dog when we went on an extended outing. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of our busy lifes and want to enjoy nature, this is the place for you. Bottom line, would be go back...absolutley!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Great Weekend Getaway!

Guest LaLa
Date of stay 07/28/11
Review Submitted 08/01/11

My boyfriend and I had a great time at Pelican's Rest! The suite was so cute and clean! They had almost everything you could need in a kitchen and we made great use of the grill! The pool was so refreshing during the day and the hot tub was relaxing at night! Overall, a great beach vacation experience and the scenery/nature was beautiful! Would definitely go back!

Recommended for: Age 55+, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Peaceful REtreat

Guest Robert
Date of stay 06/09/11
Review Submitted 06/16/11

Me, my wife and my 8-year old daughter just returned from 4 beautiful and peaceful days at Pelican's Rest. Steve and Danielle are at once hospital and unobtrusive hosts. The two bedroom apartment attached to main residence is very private, nicely laid out, and with two large sliding glass door entrances out to a comfortable deck and overlooking lovely Pamlico Sound is makes use of the ideal location. Many species of birds (e.g., red headed woodpecker, cardinals, house finch, sandpiper, and kingfisher) feed and frolick in the bird feeders ahnging from trees throughout the yard leading to the Sound. Clamming, fishing, swimming (in beautiful pool and Sound) and relaxing in hot tub are great activities. Canoe around inlet to fish and explore. All-in-all, a great experience at a great place. .

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway.

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Great Getaway in early May

Guest T
Date of stay 05/08/11
Review Submitted 05/20/11

What a wonderful place, the view was just breath taking!!! The suite was beautifully decorated and clean. The location was perfect for my husband and me, along with our two furbabies to enjoy our vacation getaway. The details and photos on VRBO and the Pelican's Rest Web site were exactly as described. The suite and property was clean and all described amenities were available, they even had the pool open! Owners were excellent, they gave us the privacy we wanted but were available if we needed something. Steve did a great job of communicating and answering our questions via e-mail prior to our trip and Daniele welcomed us upon arrival and was extremely accommodating during our trip. Our 2 Aussies were able to enjoy themselves, lots of room to run, swim and play. My husband enjoyed using the canoe. It's definitely the PERFECT Pet lover's destination. We had great weather and the sun rise was beautiful. There is a general store near by and a local restaurant (unfortunately, the restaurant was not open during our stay due off season hours). Extremely peaceful, we can't wait to return! Many, Many Thanks!!!

Recommended for: People with disabilities, age 55+, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway.

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Great Time Down East

Guest sharon
Date of stay 08/13/10
Review Submitted 08/25/10

My husband and two children (7 and 2) went for a week in mid August and had a really wonderful stay. It was quiet and the days were busy with the children but were filled with a whole lot of nothing much which is exactly what we wanted. The pool was a great asset and many hours were spent in it. There is also a hottub which my daughter loved but it was 90 degrees so not a whole lot of time was spent there. The house is just big enough for a small family of four. The Johnsons have done a very nice job of furnishing and outfitting it. As someone who loves color, I appreciated the color on the walls and my husband who is African appreciated the decor as it reminded him of coastal Kenya where there is great arabic influence. I don't know if it was arabic or asian but it was nice regardless. The master bed is HUGE. My husband had to pull me into it every night. I cooked dinner almost nightly and found the kitchen supplies to be pretty good. I needed a food processor one night and one wasn't in the kitchen but the Johnson's were gracious and shared the one they had. It was nice having them around to chat with during the week and to be there when we had questions or needs. Most evenings we went down to the ferry landing and to the beach area. My gosh that water was warm. I kept looking for cool spots. The kids loved wading the water and I loved not having to worry about dangerous currents or drop-off points. The beach is pretty long and probably a really great walk....which we never got around to. The only negative aspect to the beach was the amount of horse poop you had to be on the lookout for. But it is what it is and you overlook the poop and look at the brighter points like having the entire beach practically to yourself. There is a small grocery on the island which is quite impressive with what it stocks...all kinds of stuff from plumbing to fishing to groceries. There is also a restaurant by the ferry which serves local seafood. We ate there twice. It was good but my husband and I prefer alot of flavor (spice/herbs) to our food and I found the seafood a tad underseasoned but that is just me. If I was hungry and didn't feel like cooking...I would go there again. The salad bar is only open weekends. I truly enjoyed my time here and plan to return next year. It is wonderfully quiet and beautiful. Let me not forget to mention the local shrimper. We bought a 100 lbs cheap! And the shrimp is just plain yummy!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 5/5

Vacation Rentals by Owner

Pet Friendly, Waterfront Retreat on NC'S Southern Outer Bank [#49831] | View Property

Traveler Reviews (16)

Loved Pelican's Rest!

Loved Pelican's Rest!

Easter escape from DC

Easter escape from DC

The Definition of Peace......

The Definition of Peace......

retreat from the city beat

retreat from the city beat

Ideal family vacation

Ideal family vacation

What a great vacation!

What a great vacation!

Wonderful, relaxing stay

Wonderful, relaxing stay

What a view!

What a view!

Absolutely fabulous!

Absolutely fabulous!

Relaxing and peaceful! Perfect!!

Relaxing and peaceful! Perfect!!

Great home base for kayaking

Great home base for kayaking

Wonderful Cedar Island

Wonderful Cedar Island

Great Weekend Getaway!

Great Weekend Getaway!

Peaceful REtreat

Peaceful REtreat

Great Getaway in early May

Great Getaway in early May

Great Time Down East

Great Time Down East