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Beautiful Beach and Cozy Cottage for Off-Season Beach Getaway. Discounted Rates!

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Esther's Cottage
Welcome
Entry
Living room from entry
Living room

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6900 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space

Explore the area

View in a map
Waterford, CT
  • Place, Harkness Memorial State Park
    ‪11 min walk‬
  • Place, Eugene O'Neill Theater Center
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Pleasure Beach
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Airport, New London, CT (GON-Groton - New London)
    ‪17 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Twin Beds

Living room

1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Hair dryer

Spaces

Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Beautiful Beach and Cozy Cottage for Off-Season Beach Getaway. Discounted Rates!

Some say the best time for a beach vacay is the fall; fewer crowds, gorgeous weather and the water is at its warmest. Winter is an interesting time to explore the beach or cozy up in a sunny window. Spring brings back the shore birds, clear days and Connecticut's beautiful blooms. Off-season rates are more than a 10% discount over summer.

If you long for a quiet down time retreat, a place to replenish and rejuvenate from a hectic life, this is your haven. The quaint lane with lovely neighbors is family- and couple-friendly, and a place for friends to reconnect.

This bright, charming, "retro Connecticut shore" cottage has an open-plan on the first floor. The kitchen has everything you could want, whether cooking for a family or just microwaving snacks. Basic cooking utensils and dishware are stocked.

The downstairs master bedroom has a queen-size bed, dressers and a quiet corner with a desk in case you have to squeeze in some work hours on your getaway. The couch in the living room pulls out to a memory foam queen bed.

Upstairs is a lovely, large bedroom with 2 twin beds and lots of floor space (two air mattresses are provided for extra guests) and a sitting area filled with books and games for a quiet day.

The stunning feature of this cottage is the beach. A 5 minute stroll down a grassy path leads to a quintessential New England beach with jetties, kite-flying, fishing, shorebirds, shells, sun and surf. The beach is bordered on both ends by state parks (Seaside and Harkness). Beach chairs, towels and umbrellas are provided.

Because of the quiet, residential nature of the neighborhood, we can't allow any events or parties to occur during your stay.

Nearby activities include: Mystic Aquarium and Seaport, the Eugene O’Neill Theater, Harkness State Park, Coast Guard Academy, Waterford Speedbowl, Skatepark, golf, Mystic Ghost and paranormal tours, lighthouse tours, multiple parks, breweries, museums, casinos, excellent seafood restaurants, boat cruises, and ferries to Block Island, Orient Point and other locations.
A little over an hours drive gets you to Newport and Providence, RI.

The cottage is handicapped accessible (ramp entrance). Master bedroom and bath are on the main floor. Bathroom doorway is too narrow for wheelchair entry.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
This is a close-knit, residential neighborhood. Please be respectful of the neighbors' property boundaries and limit noise between 9 pm and 8 am.
One car in the driveway. If you require more than one car, please message host.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

We should mention

A car is required for transportation to and from this property

About the neighborhood

Waterford

Located in Waterford, this cottage is near the beach. Some of the area's popular attractions include Mystic Seaport and Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration. Ocean Beach Park and Custom House Maritime Museum are also worth visiting. Be sure to check out the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
Waterford, CT

What's nearby

  • Harkness Memorial State Park - 11 min walk - 1.0 km
  • Eugene O'Neill Theater Center - 2 min drive - 2.2 km
  • Waterford Beach Park - 2 min drive - 2.2 km
  • Pleasure Beach - 3 min drive - 2.1 km
  • Ocean Beach Park - 5 min drive - 4.3 km

Getting around

  • New London Union Station - 17 min drive
  • New London, CT (GON-Groton - New London) - 27 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Cumberland Farms - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪NV Bakery & Market - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Dunkin' - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Langley's at Great Neck Country Club - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Beautiful Beach and Cozy Cottage for Off-Season Beach Getaway. Discounted Rates! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Beautiful Beach and Cozy Cottage for Off-Season Beach Getaway. Discounted Rates!?

As of Mar 26, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Beautiful Beach and Cozy Cottage for Off-Season Beach Getaway. Discounted Rates! on May 9, 2026 start from $172, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Beautiful Beach and Cozy Cottage for Off-Season Beach Getaway. Discounted Rates!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Beautiful Beach and Cozy Cottage for Off-Season Beach Getaway. Discounted Rates!?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Beautiful Beach and Cozy Cottage for Off-Season Beach Getaway. Discounted Rates! located?

Situated by the sea, this cottage is within 1 mi (2 km) of Harkness Memorial State Park, Pleasure Beach, and Waterford Beach Park. Eugene O'Neill Theater Center and Ocean Beach Park are also within 3 mi (5 km).

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 38 out of 51 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 10 out of 51 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 51 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 51 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 51 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.4/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joe D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beach week

Neat location, lovely stroll to beautiful and quiet beach. House was very comfortable.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brenda S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cute cottage

We were in town for a wedding & this was such a perfect spot. It felt secluded yet was close to everything we needed. Highly recommend!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Timothy W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stay

Great place for kids to have fun in the beach
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dara K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect beach cottage

House was clean, neat and tidy. Close walking distance to private beach was great for our little ones. Neighbors are all very friendly and helpful. Hoping to stay again some time!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Annmarie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

This house was perfect for our group of 3 adults. Beautiful beach, friendly neighbors, convenient to Niantic, New London and Mystic. The kitchen had all of the cookware we needed and beach supplies- chairs, towels, umbrella, binoculars were thoughtfully supplied. We also appreciated the family history of the house.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Visiting Grandson at CGA

Quaint but nicely equipped. Wonderful location! Property manager very responsive and helpful…
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Nancy D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Location

With a little TLC this could be a really cute cottage! Paint the kitchen cabins to brighten it up…some new area rugs and a new chair is all it would need. Great location…private beach!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Mona N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful house minutes from the beach

Very quiet neighborhood with friendly neighbors and a pristine private beach. House was clean and comfortable. Host Pam was very responsive to my questions. Highly recommend!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Matthew R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location, very convenient to nearby towns, parks and beaches. Just a short walk to the beach. Reminded me of the cottages that once were all over Cape Cod. It is an older cottage that is well maintained. It is located on a very quiet private street. Has the things you need for a comfortable stay including a kitchen with the things you need for a vacation meal away from home. If you are planning a stay in the Waterford area then I would recommend it. My family of 4 was very comfortable during our stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Timothy W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stay

Great Property location, great for kids to play and don't have to worry about traffic. The Neighbor down the street is very helpful and personal.
Stayed 11 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Step back in time...

Beautiful older cottage with modern amenities. Family friendly, if you are looking for a quiet contemplative vacation away from noise and excitement. Exactly what was needed.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alice E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quick Vacation

We've stayed before and this was our 3rd time at this house. Always a joy. This time we spent most of the week going to the beach and just relaxing. Great for a small family! :)
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Susan M.

Quiet Cozy Cottage

This cottage was a perfect way to kick of our summer! Its nice and quiet on the street--you feel like you are in a whole other world! It was so nice relaxing with my family and having friends come down and visit! Much fun to be had at the beach, and the accompanying Seaside State park! Perfect area for Nerf Gun Battle!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect stay

The cottage was perfect for my family including my 8yr old grandson. We swam at the beach (which is just a short walk from the cottage) several times daily. The host was excellent at communication, the neighbors were super friendly, especially John who lives adjacent to the cottage, the beds were comfortable and the kitchen had all the amenities needed for making our meals. I highly recommend the cottage and plan to go back some day.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angie L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent neighborhood/beach and super clean cabin

The private beach is quite nice and is an easy walk even for our toddler. The beach in Harkness park 2min drive away is bigger, and highly recommend it as the park is huge and so beautiful, has big lawn area overlooking the sea for bbq. Although the cabin shows it’s age now but it’s super clean. All the neighbors are friendly and they are all cousins of each other. Quite unique neighborhood. The only downside is the internet is not very stable for video conferencing etc, but it shouldn’t be an issue if you don’t need to work while on vacation.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
Archival

6/10 Okay

Melanie H.

House very clean and temperature comfortable

Disappointed that beach was dirty with seaweed and you could not use it, not a place to swim. The house was very clean, window air conditioners in place but not needed, Owner very helpful and went out of her way for us. It was suggested to use bottled water, due to water coming from well, no big deal,, Nice quiet location, neighbors very nice
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2017
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Denis B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Esthers place

Very relaxing and quiet.....very nice cottage ....really enjoyed the little touches like granola bars and nuts on table .....just an enjoyable stay. With my lung cancer and my friends not being there to help me pack up and leave I did the best I could with picking up. Couldn't get lockbox to open so put key under doormat.
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lingling S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Short walk to a private beach

What a cosy, quiet and relaxing place to enjoy a break. Pam’s cottage was just right for our group. We all had the space we needed and it allowed us to enjoy dinner together indoors or out. The sleeping situation was great for the four of us. There is a convenient path to head down to the beach and take a stroll. We did that almost every day. There is also a nice park located on one end of the beach that is walking distance, if you don’t mind a little exercise. The location was convenient for us to explore some of the key attractions and then return back to the home base for a relaxing night. We are glad we made this choice and hope others will enjoy their stay as much as we did.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Samuel S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely relaxing getaway spot!

First and most important.... COMFY bed! My husband and I have a sleep number bed at home and, sadly, we find we really miss it when we travel. Sometimes the lack of sleep can ruin an otherwise great vacation destination. Everything was clean and comfy. Our only complaint is that we forgot about the lovely path to the beach until our last day :(. Boy, once we remembered and strolled to the beach we wish we'd skipped Mystic and had just relaxed on the beach with books all day. Pam was very welcoming and checked in on us via text to make sure we didn't have any issues or questions. We would highly recommend Esther's Cottage!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021
Verified

8/10 Good

Joseph G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice house with a short walk to the beach.

Everything was easy and just as it was described.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Angèle L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Endroit tranquille

Nous avons beaucoup apprécié la tranquillité des lIeux et l’accès facile à la plage qui est aussi très calme. Pam est facilement accessible et répond rapidement.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pierre N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

We had a great time with our 4 kids ages 8 to 13. Many great restaurants within 15 minutes, Recovery Room, Tony Ds, On the Waterfront, Paul’s Pasta. Recommend mystic Aquarium, mystic Seaport museum, Newport Mansions, best of all and well worth the price, POET'S LOUNGE SAILING CHARTERS, 3 hours with a swim! Short walk on the private path to beach was also a great plus for kids to bike.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A perfect respite for our family

Esther's Cottage is exactly like the description. My husband and I, our two adult daughters, and our 9-month-old grandson spent six days enjoying the quiet simplicity of this vintage home. Being able to walk out the front door, stroll down a shaded path and end up on our own private beach was awesome. Pam was easy to communicate with throughout our stay and we loved getting to know the history of the several cottages owned by Pam's family. The beds were comfy, kitchen well stocked and the bathroom was spotless. The upstairs bedroom is big and cooled by AC or fan. The front yard is small, but has a nice shade tree which is visited frequently by birds. The only negative for us is that we all have ATT and did not get phone service. The WIFI works well and there is a land line for local calls or in case of emergency. We already booked for next summer!!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andie D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hidden Gem for beach lovers

This tiny throwback cottage is a perfect accommodation for a small family in need a very quiet laid-back beach accessible getaway. We came up for a week to celebrate our daughter's graduation from USCGA and it worked out perfectly. The beach is just a quick few minute walk down a grassy lane. You can walk a long ways all the way to Harkness Memorial Park with incredible views of the sound. I'd say the only drawback is the small driveway that will accommodate at most two cars. However the neighbors are family and incredibly friendly and accommodating should you need extra space. We will definitely book again if we're back this way. Thank you Pam for making it such an easy rental.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

karen s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Tropical storm!

Pam was very responsive and checking in during the tropical storm, also her neighbors were checking in with us too! Everything was great, we faired well throughout the storm and enjoyed our week stay. As a mom, I loved the laundry hampers in each room, and plenty of hanging rods and outside line for hanging towels and bathing suits. AC worked well also. Some pictures are out of date, there's now a powered chair (the kids loved) and updated table/ chairs and updated bed linens. The floor has some wear, but we didn't mind at all! Hope to be back to the beach house next year
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2021

About the host

Hosted by Pam Maxson

Host profile image
The owners of this property are 18 cousins who inherited the cottage from their Aunt Esther, who thoughtfully wanted to make the cottage accessible for all of us, most of whom have fond memories of playing at the beach and visiting Aunt Esther as children and young adults. We are scattered all across the country but some of us make it back to stay in the cottage regularly, soaking up the memories and the beach.

What makes this property unique

Where else do you get a private beach, a sweet cottage in a neighborhood filled with members of a family who have been on "the Lane" for 6 generations? You are never a stranger here!

Languages:

English
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