Fossil Beach: "Canandaigua Lake Retreat and Memorable Views!"
Welcome to Fossil Beach, your charming Finger Lakes vacation home nestled on the peaceful west shore of Canandaigua Lake. This historic 1920s cottage offers a perfect blend of timeless lakefront charm and modern comforts, making it an ideal retreat for families, friends, or anyone seeking a relaxing getaway surrounded by nature.
Step inside through the quaint covered porch and find a bright, open living space filled with cozy seating, a flat-screen TV, and a decorative fireplace that adds to the welcoming atmosphere. Large windows showcase beautiful views of the lake and let in plenty of natural light, so you feel connected to the water all day long.
The fully equipped kitchen offers everything you need to prepare your favorite meals, whether it's a casual breakfast or a family dinner. The dining area seats everyone comfortably, creating a great space to gather, share stories, and make memories.
Upstairs, the spacious bedrooms provide peaceful havens for rest and relaxation. The master suite features a king-size bed and private bathroom, while the additional bedrooms offer cozy beds and lovely lake views. A shared full bathroom serves the other bedrooms with ease. One of the best spots in the home is the screened porch on the second floor—perfect for curling up with a book, sipping your morning coffee, or simply soaking in the serene surroundings. In 2024, this porch will include a twin daybed with a trundle, adding extra sleeping space for your group.
Outside, Fossil Beach shines with over 335 feet of private lake frontage. Paddle along the shore in one of the non-motorized watercraft provided, enjoy a refreshing swim off the private dock, or relax while soaking up the sun on the water's edge. The lakefront firepit offers the perfect place to gather in the evenings for s'mores, laughter, and stories under the stars.
The location is perfect for exploring all the Finger Lakes have to offer. Just 20 minutes from the quaint town of Naples, you can enjoy local shops, restaurants, and seasonal events like the Fall Grape Festival. Nature lovers will appreciate nearby Grimes Glen Park, where you can hike and cool off in the refreshing waterfalls. Whether you're here to explore or unwind, Fossil Beach is the perfect home base for your Finger Lakes adventure.
For winter visits, four-wheel drive is recommended due to the home's location on a gently sloping wooded lot, ensuring you can access the property comfortably in all seasons.
Fossil Beach offers the perfect combination of privacy, comfort, and lakeside fun. Whether you're fishing off the dock, paddling on the water, or simply relaxing on the screened porch, this cozy cottage will make your Finger Lakes vacation unforgettable. Book your stay today and experience the magic of Canandaigua Lake for yourself.
**4-Wheel Drive is recommended for all winter bookings! ** **While boats are unable to be tied to the dock, a mooring buoy is available off the end of the dock to secure a boat.**
Occupancy: This property is closely monitored for responsible renting. The maximum occupancy of each home is the number of guests allowed on the premises at any given time. This includes both day and overnight guests as well as all children including infants.
Note: 1. You will receive an email upon confirmation with a link to our Guest License Agreement which is a copy of our Rental Rules that must be signed and returned within 7 days of receiving. 2. Smoking is not allowed in any rental property. This includes vaping and e-cigarettes. 3. Homes are not handicap accessible, unless stated in the description. 4. Air conditioning is not available unless listed as an amenity. If available, air conditioning is considered a seasonal amenity and is only available May 15 - October 15. 5. Homes are not guaranteed allergen-free, even those that do not allow pets. 6. Docking is not guaranteed if water levels are low and/or high due to seasonal weather and climate changes. 7. Outdoor amenities, including furniture, watercraft, and firepit are not available between October 15 - May 15. 8. 2 dogs allowed maximum and $100 plus tax non-refundable pet fee applies per dog.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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This property has a dock available for sunbathing or fishing. Boats cannot be secured or tied up to the dock.
Pet allowance is limited to 2 dogs only. An additional $100 non-refundable pet fee will apply per dog.
FLPP requires a verbal confirmation within 48 hours of booking and a representative will reach out to you within 48 hours to review the reservation.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 1781407vb
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
About the area
Canandaigua
Located in Canandaigua, this holiday home is on the waterfront. Heron Hill Winery Tasting Room at Bristol and Arbor Hill Grapery & Winery are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Canandaigua Lake State Marine Park and Honeoye Lake Boat Launch State Park. CMAC Performing Arts Center and Roseland Waterpark are also worth visiting.
beach near Canandaigua Lake - 3 min drive - 2.9 km
beach near Onanda Park - 3 min drive - 2.9 km
CMAC Performing Arts Center - 20 min drive - 27.1 km
Rochester Institute of Technology - 54 min drive - 73.6 km
Getting around
Rochester, NY (ROC-Greater Rochester Intl.) - 53 min drive
Restaurants
Bristol Mountain Morning Star Café
Eastside Grill & Pub - 24 min drive
Lock Stock Bar & Grill - 18 min drive
A’s Diner & Desserts - 8 min drive
Brew & Brats - 11 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Fossil Beach: "Canandaigua Lake Retreat and Memorable Views!" pet-friendly?
Yes, pets are allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Fossil Beach: "Canandaigua Lake Retreat and Memorable Views!"?
As of 11 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Fossil Beach: "Canandaigua Lake Retreat and Memorable Views!" on 27 Aug 2026 start from £750, 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 at Fossil Beach: "Canandaigua Lake Retreat and Memorable Views!"?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Fossil Beach: "Canandaigua Lake Retreat and Memorable Views!"?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Fossil Beach: "Canandaigua Lake Retreat and Memorable Views!"?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Fossil Beach: "Canandaigua Lake Retreat and Memorable Views!" located?
Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is steps from Canandaigua Lake and 1.8 mi (2.9 km) from Heron Hill Winery Tasting Room at Bristol. Arbor Hill Grapery & Winery and Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill are also within 9 miles (15 km).
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We had a nice family reunion. The rooms were clean. The kitchen is big and great to cook in.
Jacqueline M.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Nov 2025
Thank you for the 5-star review! We're so glad you enjoyed a memorable family reunion and found the home clean and the kitchen well-suited for gathering and cooking. We’d love to host you again for your next visit to the Finger Lakes!
Really liked the place! Very clean! Room for everyone for Thanksgiving Dinner. They do need more metal silverware so check on that. Gas fireplace was toasty. Unfortunately weather was just too cold to use lake or hot tub.
Marlene B.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Jan 2026
Thank you for your 4.8-star review! We're so glad you enjoyed the home, especially for your Thanksgiving gathering. We appreciate the note about the silverware and will look into it. We hope to welcome you back in warmer weather so you can enjoy the lake and hot tub too!
This property was amazing for my group. We really enjoyed all the amenities this property had to offer. The lake and the views were simply amazing. We had an issue with the coffee maker the first morning and a new one was sent to the house by early afternoon. I can't say enough good things about our stay. This place is a must see!
JASON A.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Oct 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear you and your group had such an amazing stay and enjoyed the views and amenities this home has to offer. We’re also glad our team could quickly assist with the coffee maker — ensuring a smooth and relaxing stay is always our goal. We’d love to welcome you back for another unforgettable Finger Lakes getaway!
Big, clean and comfortable home in front of lake. Privacy and amenities are wonderful. We had a great time in this place
Zulmarie A.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Jun 2024
Thank you very much for taking the time to rate us 5/5 stars! We are so happy to hear you had such a wonderful time. Please come and stay with us again soon!
We really enjoyed our stay. For me, one of the properties biggest highlights was the elbow room between you and the neighbors. Lots of space. The property description is very accurate when it came to accessing the water so be sure to read it carefully to make sure it is for you. I found lots of fossils along the shore which was an added bonus!!
Adam Z.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug 2025
Thank you for the 10/10 review! We’re so glad to hear you enjoyed your stay and appreciated the peaceful setting and extra space around the property. It’s great to know the shoreline access matched your expectations—and how fun to find fossils along the way! We’d love to welcome you back for another unique Finger Lakes experience.
Our group of three couples enjoyed our stay very much. The spaciousness of the kitchen-dining and the living rooms are especially pleasant - full of windows, light, and view. Our only suggestion is to be very specific in your listing about the number and steepness of the stairs down to the beach and fire pit. One of our party temporarily has reduced mobility and felt the stairs were too challenging.
Elizabeth B.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Oct 2025
Thank you for your kind words! We're so glad your group enjoyed the spacious layout and beautiful views. We appreciate your feedback about the stairs and will review the listing for added clarity. We hope to welcome you back soon!
This was our first time visiting the Finger Lakes. We really enjoyed our stay at this home. It had a cozy cabin feel tucked in the woods with beautiful views of the lake. We found the house clean and accommodating. The kitchen was well maintained. The porch was a nice place to relax. We plan to come back.
Jeffrey H.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Sept 2024
Thank you very much for taking the time to rate us 5/5 stars! We are thrilled to hear you would definitely come back and stay again!
As advertised. Great location. Shady afternoon.
Small waterfront area. Homey, well kept. Hot tub was slightly green.
john o.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Sept 2024
Thank you very much for taking the time to rate us 5/5 stars! We are so happy to hear you had such a wonderful time. Please come and stay with us again soon!
We can not think of one negative thing to say about this amazing property! The pictures do not do it justice!! It accommodated our group of 11 perfectly and it provided a private and relaxing getaway. I would love to return again for a longer stay to fully enjoy the beauty of this property.
Danielle G.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Jul 2021
Thank you very much for taking the time to rate your experience at our rental. We are thrilled to see that you enjoyed a wonderful stay with us! Please come and see us again soon!
We had a great time at Fossil Beach. The house was very well maintained, exactly how was described in the listing. Plenty of room for everybody in our group. We enjoyed the lake almost too much! The water was perfect, the surrounding area was quiet and peaceful. Everyone from the youngest kids to the oldest adults had a wonderful time. I highly recommend this property for anyone looking to get away for a little while.
Urszula S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Jul 2021
Thank you so much for the review and for recommending our rental. We hope to see you again during your next trip to the Finger Lakes.
House is spacious and nice but could use some additional amenities. Needs hairdryer, more silverware, beach towels, grill brush and cards/games. The stairs to the lake are steep and the landing is slippery.
Overall good but could be great.
Liz W.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Sept 2024
Thank you very much for taking the time to rate your experience at our rental. We will use your feedback to improve the experience for future guests at this rental. Please come and stay with us again soon!
We went in April to potentially see the eclipse and spend family time. The eclipse was a bust but the family time was perfect. The hot tub, fossil hunting and stone skipping by the lake were the highlights. Beds were comfortable and the dining table accommodated all ten of us comfortably. If you can’t do steep stairs (up to the bedrooms inside and down to the lake outside) then this is not the place for you. The view and sunrises are gorgeous. Onanda Park, with a playground and hiking trails, is only 3 minutes away. We would love to return in the summer when we could do more lake activities.
Judith P.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 3 May 2024
Thank you very much for taking the time to rate your experience at our rental. We are thrilled to see that you enjoyed a wonderful stay with us! Please come and stay with us again soon!
Had a great week with family. Home was updated, comfortable and ideally located in a quiet wooded location with a well stocked kitchen and ample room for 5 adults, a 3 year old and a dog. Enjoyed fishing off the dock and even caught a few perch and catfish. Found some fossils along the lake front too! Took advantage of kayaks, rowboat and swimming in the lake. Outdoor space by the lake was a small cement or muddy area even on dry days so space was not ideal for lounging lakeside especially with a dog and a toddler, but the small dock was perfect for fishing. We did enjoy a fire in the fire pit by the lake. As others mentioned, there are many steep steps to get to the lake so not good for any one that has issues with stairs but great exercise for everyone! Could use a new ladder on the dock to replace the rusty one with sharp edges. Bath towels provided were small and scratchy so was glad I brought a few from home. Could also use a new frying pan to replace worn pans with the non stick coating heavily scratched. We had an issue with the PIN code when we first arrived and although it took a few tries and several stints on hold the response was fast and resolved. We had to replace batteries in remotes for TV and ceiling fan and found some dog hair around floors and furniture from past occupants, so a little more attention to the smaller details would be appreciated. Overall enjoyed Fossil Beach and all it had to offer. Would definitely consider a return trip.
Susan P.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Aug 2023
Thank you for sharing your honest feedback on your recent stay at 'Fossil Beach'. We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed a great week with your family. We appreciate your observations about the outdoor space and will take your feedback into consideration for improvements. We're glad our team was responsive to the issue you encountered and resolved them promptly. Thank you for considering a return trip; we look forward to welcoming you back to Fossil Beach in the near future!
Beautiful Lakefront House! We loved everything about our stay and look forward to coming back!
Caylin M.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2023
Thank you very much for taking the time to rate your experience at our rental. We are thrilled to see that you enjoyed a wonderful stay with us! Please come and stay with us again soon!
Warning: If any of your group have a problem with stairs, this may not be right for you. The indoor stairs to the upper level are narrow, steep risers, shallow steps, open on one side and without carpet or treads. Additionally, the outdoor stairs down to the dock and the fire pit are a triple flight of steps to the bottom. The house did not have nearly enough bathroom or kitchen towels for 9 people and if you wanted more, you had to pay more. Really? And the first night we arrived after a long day of traveling and unpacking, we pulled back our bedspreads to find out that the beds only had bottom sheets & pillow cases - no top sheets. So we had to find the sheets and make our beds last minute. Now, for the good stuff: The house is very bright and full of beautiful views of the lake. It's quiet and secluded but there are neighbors around if you needed them. The water toys were great and we loved sitting around the front porch talking and listening to good music each night. The kitchen and dining area is the property's best feature. It was well equipped and spacious with seating for 12. Very Nice.
Carol B. (Beth) W.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Aug 2023
Thank you for sharing your feedback with us. We apologize for any inconvenience caused by the stairs and the bedding situation. We'll take your comments into consideration for future improvements. It's wonderful to hear that you enjoyed the beautiful lake views and the tranquil setting. We hope you created lasting memories during your stay and thank you for choosing our property for your getaway!
Me and my party just left this Fossil Beach property and I have nothing but wonderful things to say about it.
The view is beautiful, you have great views of the lake from the front porch as well as the kitchen. It's a nice private area and the house is beautiful.
We arrived and everything was so clean, it was great to walk in to. We had no complaints and had a wonderful time there. Would 100% go back again!
Meghan B.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Jul 2023
Thank you very much for taking the time to rate us 5/5 stars! We are so happy to hear you had such a wonderful time. We are thrilled to hear that you would come stay with us again!
My parents and my husband and children and I stayed here over Thanksgiving. The kitchen was arguably the most delightful room in the house! I was even happy to be in there cooking so much! I could look out on the lake… The casual dining area who is perfect for her our family Thanksgiving. It was just a really beautiful time. The main bedroom was especially lovely as well. I would love to stay here again.
Wendy J.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 25 May 2022
Thank you very much for taking the time to rate your experience at our rental. We are thrilled to see that you enjoyed a wonderful stay with us! Please come and stay with us again soon!
If you want a quiet and secluded get away on beautiful Canandaigua Lake this is the perfect spot. Big kitchen with plenty of seating. An abundance of windows that provide breathtaking views. Wake up early to capture the sunrise.
Anne M.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Nov 2021
Thank you very much for taking the time to rate your experience at our rental. We are thrilled to see that you enjoyed a wonderful stay with us! Please come and stay with us again soon!
Our group of adults( parents and grown children with spouses) enjoyed the property very much. Quiet and private. Nice access to the lake and fun water toys. Set up was very good for eating together (large table) and watching TV (plenty of setting , we were a party of 6). More than enough sleeping arrangements too. Due to location, we did drive a lot to get to activities but the house amenities made that worthwhile.
Otto H.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Oct 2021
Thank you very much for taking the time to rate your experience at our rental. We are extremely gratified to see that you enjoyed a wonderful stay with us! Please come and stay with us again soon!
Beautiful scenery of lake. Disappointed with windows and bugs. We liked large kitchen eating area. Gas burners kitchen not working properly. Stairs to upper level a little dangerous as blends in with floor at bottom and difficult to see. Enjoyed fire pit and dock.
Judith D.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Oct 2021
Thank you very much for taking the time to rate your experience at our rental. On behalf of our entire team, I would like to apologize for not exceeding your expectations. Your satisfaction is important to us and we have shared your review with the owner and they are going to look into your concerns. I hope that you will consider staying with us again so that we can have another chance to provide you with a superior experience.
Amazing swimming off of the dock and huge kitchen table to fit our large family. Beautiful bedrooms with comfy beds and AC too. We had a great vacation.
kati t.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Aug 2021
Hi Kati, Fossil Beach is one of our favorites, we're so glad you enjoyed it! We hope to have you back next summer!
Our family had a memorable time staying at this lake house. We really enjoyed quiet evenings around the campfire and fishing from the dock! Thanks for everything!
Heather S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Jul 2021
Thank you for the 5 star rating. We are happy to see that you enjoyed your stay and we hope to host you again soon.
Super fun! Would not recommend for young children...the area is a little steep but perfect for adults. Also, quiet hours are big to the owner so must be willing to respect that.
Sage B.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Jun 2021
Thank you for the 5 star rating. We are pleased that you enjoyed your stay and we hope to see you again soon.
We loved our stay at Grange Landing! The house accommodated our group perfect- just the right amount of beds and living space. The location was beautiful, even during the winter time. Im definitely looking forward to booking with this place again over the summer!
Anai F.
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Jun 2021
Thank you very much for taking the time to rate your experience at our rental. We are extremely gratified to see that you enjoyed a wonderful stay with us! Please come and see us again soon!
Our family loved this house and the surounding area. Lots to do.
Some were upset about the lack of tv / wifi but by the end of the trip we were glad there was none.
GREGORY C.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Aug 2021
Hi Greg, thank you for the 5-star review. We're so glad you enjoyed your stay and hope you return this fall!
About the host
Hosted by Finger Lakes Premier Properties
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests