Top 10% of guest reviews in this areaTop 10% of guest reviews in this area
Highlights
Bring your furry friends
Top-rated for creating memorable stays with your pets.
Direct access to the beach
A rare find — enjoy uninterrupted access to the beach.
Centrally-located
You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
Discover nearby landmarks
Near Gwynn's Island Museum
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4
Popular amenities
On beach
Garage parking available
Dogs and cats allowed
Kitchen
Washer
Air conditioning
Explore the area
Grimstead, VA
Gwynn's Island Museum
Place, Gwynn's Island Museum
15 min walk
Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Place, Busch Gardens Williamsburg
54 min drive
Water Country USA
Place, Water Country USA
56 min drive
Newport News, VA (PHF-Newport News - Williamsburg Intl.)
Airport, Newport News, VA (PHF-Newport News - Williamsburg Intl.)
59 min drive
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)
Bedroom 1
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 2
2 Twin Beds
1 bathroom
Bathroom 1
Bathtub or shower · Toilet
Spaces
Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Waterfront Cottage w Private Beach on Chesapeake Bay!
Gwynn's Island Cottage is a modest waterfront cottage on the Chesapeake Bay with panoramic views and sunsets over the water. The small, private beach is entirely on the property and not shared. We are pet friendly. During the summer months, we rent weekly, Sunday to Sunday.
The Cottage is located on quaint and historic Gwynn's Island with a public marina and terrific restaurant dining over the water 1/3 of a mile away. The Cottage sleeps 4 guests in 2 bedrooms.
On your private beach, you can swim, kayak, paddle board, fish and crab, bird watch, float on a raft, enjoy a good book or an adult beverage. The Shed is full of everything you don't need to bring: beach chairs, 3 kayaks, bikes, a stand up paddleboard, zero gravity chairs, crab nets, crab pot, floats, rafts, noodles, children's beach toys, life vests, a croquet set, and hammock. Hills Bay is clean, shallow, and sandy-bottomed, with little current, so perfect for children and seafaring explorers alike. You can fish right from the beach or from kayaks. Guests catch drum, trout, rockfish, croaker, spot and flounder. The crab pot or the fishing nets allow guests to catch crabs when they are in season.
After a quick rinse in the outdoor shower after your day on the beach or in the water, use the Weber kettle charcoal grill for cooking up the day’s catch or fresh seafood from a nearby market. Enjoy dinner al fresco on the deck overlooking the water as you watch that sunset... For cooler evenings, light a fire in the Bonfire Solo stove under the stars. With little light pollution, the night sky is often spectacular.
From the Cottage, guests experience bird life such as bald eagles, blue herons, ospreys, seagulls, white tundra swans, bufflehead ducks, loons, plus dolphins in the warm months. Boat watching is plentiful with a yacht club just across the water, with boat action in and out of Hills Bay from the Chesapeake.
Or bring your own boat. There's plenty of room on the long, circular driveway to trailer in and out. The island's public boat landing is 1/3 of a mile away, with parking for your trailer while you are on the water and a restaurant for provisions.
The Cottage is pet-friendly! Four legged guests enjoy the beach with its shallow, clean water. We provide doggie towels. We own the small woods next door where dogs can "get their sniffs on."
If you plan to bring your pet, just message the manager with the age, breed, gender, weight, and name of your animal/s. We charge a pet fee of $125 for all animals for your entire stay (less than kennels or pet sitters). They will enjoy being with you on vacay.
Between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend, we rent weekly, Sunday to Sunday. Just a two-night minimum the rest of the year.
We have a large capacity washer, dryer, and the laundry room has space to air dry. Our outdoor shower also has foot spigots. The Cottage has a 50" smart TV with cable and wifi. If you bring your electric/hybrid vehicle, we have an outdoor outlet (120v) for charging.
The Cottage has a retro Frigidaire Mini-fridge that chills 6 cans of your favorite beverage and doubles as a Bluetooth speaker. Take it outside to play your tunes on the beach or deck!
The Cottage is perfect for special occasions or gatherings (with approval of management) because photos with a water view are ah-mazing.
Please read the over 200 reviews from the Cottage's guests over our last 10 years of renting, with guests returning over and over again. Our positive reviews reflect the guest-centered experience that we try to provide, continually using our guests' suggestions to improve amenities.
We are sorry but smoking is not permitted in the house or anywhere on our property.
**Gwynn's Island Cottage is dedicated to welcoming all people regardless of their race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin or gender orientation.**
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Special events and parties with okay of management
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Pets
Pets allowed: dogs and cats less than 50 lbs per pet (limit 2 pets total)
With advance ok of management and pet fee of $125
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Check-out instructions
The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove leftover food and drinks and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Please text the manager when you check out.
Please launder any sheets used or at least start the load. If guests prefer not to, we can handle and charge a small fee. Many guests bring their own sheets.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Please do not drive or park in the woods in back of the Shed. Our septic system is located there and it will cause serious damage.
Guests' use of the kayaks, SUP, rafts, grill, solo stove, beach and the water is at your own risk. Use life vests and protective footwear.
Please do not use the Weber Grill or the Solo stove on the wood deck or stoop.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 821333
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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 30
Note from host: Special events and parties with okay of management
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, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the neighborhood
Gwynn
Located in Gwynn, this cottage is in a rural area and on the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Chesapeake Bay and Bethel Beach Natural Area Preserve, while Gloucester Museum of History and Deltaville Maritime Museum are cultural highlights. Steamboat Era Museum and Compass Entertainment Complex are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and hunting.
Is Waterfront Cottage w Private Beach on Chesapeake Bay! pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 50 lbs per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at Waterfront Cottage w Private Beach on Chesapeake Bay!?
As of Jul 27, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Waterfront Cottage w Private Beach on Chesapeake Bay! on Nov 1, 2026 start from $359, 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 Waterfront Cottage w Private Beach on Chesapeake Bay!?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Waterfront Cottage w Private Beach on Chesapeake Bay!?
Check-out is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Waterfront Cottage w Private Beach on Chesapeake Bay! located?
Nestled on the beach, this Gwynn cottage is 0.8 mi (1.2 km) from Gwynn's Island Museum and 1.7 mi (2.7 km) from Chesapeake Bay. Bethel Beach Natural Area Preserve is 11.9 mi (19.2 km) away.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
The Cottage at Gwynn Island is truly magical. Such a wonderful setting on the bay with a private beach to swim with our doggies.Our host was extremely kind and we look forward to visiting again soonSincerely Joyce and Gary
Gary S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 26, 2026
Thanks for your gracious review, Joyce and Gary! And for all of your communications. I appreciate it so much! Please come back to the cottage soon.
Wonderful rental property. Gorgeous views of the bay! Kitchen is well-equipped with everything you need. Area is peaceful and quiet. We loved the private beach area and the mornings were shady. Would stay here again!
Sharon S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 12, 2026
Sharon! Thank you much for your generous review. And thanks for your keen observations at the Cottage. We hope to have you back soon.
We had another excellent stay at Gwynn's Island cottage. We had wonderful views of Hills bay and great weather to go along with it. The cottage was clean and well stocked as always. Thanks again Cheri for letting us stay at this gem in Mathews County, Virginia and for being a wonderful hostess.
Verified traveler
Stayed 7 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 23, 2026
Thanks so much to your family for being great repeat guests! Appreciate the review!
This quiet, water-front cottage was perfect for my husband and me. We hope we can stay here again.
Eunice C.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 27, 2026
Thank you so very much for your review of your stay! And for your comments on me on the clean condition of the Cottage. We appreciate your kind comments so much and hope to have you both soon.
We had a lovely weekend stay at this inviting cozy cottage. The kitchen was very well stocked with everything we needed. We enjoyed relaxing on the deck and enjoying the views. The beach was perfect for wading and given more time I would have gone swimming. My husband enjoyed kayaking in the surrounding waters. The quiet island atmosphere was just what we wanted and we will return.
Beth M.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on May 19, 2026
Beth! Thanks much for your review! You really took full advantage of the cottage. You are welcome back for next year's Tour or at any time.
Hi Carolyn -
Thanks for your review and glad you enjoyed a stay after the holiday. I don't believe we got any communications from you before, during or after your stay, so I know of no concerns with your stay. We are disappointed in your 4 star review as there is no indication from your review what was lacking. (We haven't had anything but 5 star reviews for almost 8 years of renting.) If you wish to message me and share your experience with us and what was lacking, we would be happy to hear about it. We always look for ways to improve guests' experience. A complaint can be a gift. Thanks much!
We have stayed at Gwynn’s Island Cottage four times now and each visit only gets better. Cheri is the most thoughtful and welcoming host — you feel right at home as soon as you walk in. The Cottage has always been immaculate and has everything you could ever think to need during your stay. The views, the water, the private beach.. it’s almost surreal. We bring our dog who enjoys the beach and water as much as we do. The sunsets every night are breathtaking. With great restaurants on the island and nearby in Mathews, it’s hard to imagine a more perfect location for a getaway. We are so thankful Cheri shares her little slice of heaven and are already looking forward to our next visit!!
Gordon Y.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 12, 2026
Thanks so much! We appreciate your review so much! You guys are such terrific guests. Please come back soon!!
Our stay is always so good for us. Our dog loves the easy in and out and all amenities are well thought out. We love seeing the eagles, herons, and osprey. We don’t fish but lots were jumping around ight out front.
Janis G.
Stayed 11 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 17, 2025
Thanks so much, Janis! You guys are such terrific repeat guests that it's a pleasure to host you. We look forward to having you back after the renovations!
Another fantastic week at the cottage. The weather cooperated and sunsets were spectacular. Thanks again Cheri for sharing this gem by the Chesapeake Bay!
The house was easy to find (since my husband spent his summers there as a kid) and we found everything clean and well-equipped. Appreciated the stash of spices, condiments and kitchen equipment since we did some cooking. Loved biking the island! Water was rough from a storm so no kayaking but the shed was full of water toys for nice days. We all enjoyed our stay very much!
Jeanne M.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 21, 2025
Thank you so much! hope the "homecoming" went well and please come again!
It was a perfect spot for an intimate weekend getaway. The pups absolutely loved it, and Beaverdam park is close enough that we were able to get a nice long hoke in as well.
Amy F.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 6, 2024
Thanks so much Amy! And you have introduced me to Beaverdam where I have not yet been so I am grateful! Please come back with your pups!
We loved the cottage! The bay was so close that even when you were inside you felt like you were on the beach. The sunsets were AMAZING. The neighbors were very quiet, the beach was private and the cottage was clean- leading to a nice, relaxing trip full of kayaking, fishing, reading on the beach and floating on the bay. Mathews area is our favorite spot due to the close proximity to groceries, restaurants and day trips.
Stephanie G.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 8, 2025
Thank you Steph! You guys did a lot in a week's time! Thanks for being terrific guests and for this kind review. We hope to have you back soon!
The house was very clean upon entering and the view was beautiful. It was conveniently located to shops and restaurants. We enjoyed visiting the nearby Hatchery while there.
Karen C.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 19, 2024
Thank you so much, Karen! I've tried to get to the Hatchery all summer and never made it there! It's such an authentic local experience, wonderful views with water all around, and terrific oysters and food. Please come back to the Cottage any time.
Location is perfect for families with small children — beach access is a few feet away and the bay water is shallow/calm. Property is well-kept and has everything you could need. Loved our stay and will definitely be back.
William A.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 10, 2024
Oh wow thanks so much William! We look forward to having you back at the Cottage!
The cottage is extremely well appointed, very clean, comfortable and affords a great view of Hills Bay. Three adults and a toddler enjoyed their 3-night stay immensely. .
samuel k.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 25, 2024
Thank you, Sam! I hope your family's reunion was as success. Thanks for your kind review. We appreciate it!
About the host
Hosted by CLewis
I'm the lucky manager of Gwynn's Island Cottage who enjoys introducing friends, family, and guests to Gwynn's Island, Mathews County, and the surrounding areas on Virginia's spectacular Chesapeake Bay.
Why they chose this property
People like family introduced me to Mathews County decades ago.
Friends introduced me to Gwynn's Island, a true slice of heaven.
What makes this property unique
The Cottage's private beach is the perfect place to lounge, launch a kayak or paddleboard, enjoy adult beverages, swim, crab, fish, watch a sunset over the water, or start a Solo stove fire on a starry night. It is located on our property and not shared with other properties.
The water views from the Cottage make guests feel like they are on a houseboat. From inside or on the deck or beach, guests enjoy spectacular sunsets over the water. Depending on the time of year, guests see blue herons, bald eagles, dolphins, swans, osprey, ducks, loons, seagulls and sandpipers. With a Coast Guard station on the Island and a yacht club across the water, guests enjoy lots of boating activity. Or they can bring their own boat as we have a long circular driveway and a boat marina 1/3 of a mile away.
Our Shed which has bikes to explore the island, 3 kayaks, a stand up paddleboard, a crab pot and nets, beach chairs, rafts, life vests of all sizes, a croquet set, pup tent, fishing rod, a Weber grill, grilling supplies, a folding table for crab picking in the yard, and more, free of cost.
Gwynn's Island, the location of the Revolutionary War battle which ousted the last British governor in Virginia, is rich in history. Hole In the Wall is a popular restaurant with outdoor dining overlooking the water just 1/3 of a mile from the Cottage. Gwynn's Island Museum is fascinating to visit. Guests step back in time and sloooow doowwnn their pace as soon as they cross the island bridge.
Mathews County has more shoreline than any other County in Virginia although it's the 2nd smallest geographically.
The Cottage is close to the idyllic water towns of Urbanna, Kilmarnock, and Irvington. A boat ride away is the Eastern Shore, Cape Charles, or Tangier Island. Historic Gloucester and Yorktown and its Battlefield where our country's freedom was gained are also nearby. Jamestown and Colonial Williamsburg including Busch Gardens and Great Wolf Lodge are an hour away.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests