We thought, based on photos, that Sea Ray might be uncomfortably small -- but were pleasantly surprised at how well laid out both the cottage and the yards are. We were full with 4 couples, but not at all cramped. The photos here don't do it justice! There are small yards in both the front and the back of the cottage, with shady passageways in between, so we were each able to find comfortable spots to relax. Dining inside with a large group might be challenging, but there's a covered patio on the entry side, too, with a teak table and chairs that's plenty big enough to seat 8. There's also another table, almost as large, in the yard on the other side, as well as a couple of smaller set-ups here and there for two to sit and enjoy the sea air. A high hedge surrounds the property, so, even with small cottages on either side, the yards were private and quiet. The cottage is thoughtfully furnished inside and very comfortable (one note: the top floor bedroom had a/c when we were there), and the kitchen, which looks small in the photo, will actually comfortably accommodate two or more working at once. Two full bathrooms and one half inside the cottage, plus a nice outdoor shower, were more than enough to keep everyone happy for the duration of our stay.

Codfish Park, the area in Sconset where Sea Ray is located, is down the bluff from the center of town, but an easy walk in to the store, sandwich shop and restaurant there. The cottages are small and sort of packed in, just off the beach, but almost all have been renovated to maximize privacy, views, and beach access -- and they're generally more affordable than the larger cottages that sit at the top of the bluff. It's literally only a walk of a few feet and a short passage through a bower of wild roses to get onto the public beach, too, and there weren't often many other people there, either. It's so private that we were able to see seals feeding just off the beach, and occasionally swimming in to shore. This is a comparatively high surf area, being on the east end of the island, which might be something to consider with small children. On the other hand, that exposure to the open ocean gave us cool breezes and the sounds of surf, too -- which was especially nice for sleeping at night.

One word of caution for the uninitiated: Sconset is not walking distance from the ferry docks in town! The island shuttle service is reliable and comfortable, though, and, if you do have a car, Sea Ray has parking.