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House of Zen - Walk to the beach, Huge fenced back yard, Outdoor shower!

Photo gallery for House of Zen - Walk to the beach, Huge fenced back yard, Outdoor shower!

A modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and a built-in dishwasher.
A house with a porch, a sign reading "House of Zen," and a number "253" on the wall.
A living room with a ceiling fan, a television, a sofa, a coffee table, and a door leading to another room.
A covered patio area with a grill, a wooden pergola, and a garden with plants.
A bedroom with a bed, a desk with a chair, a television, a wardrobe, and a ceiling light.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area

Highlights

  • Bring your furry friends
    Top-rated for creating memorable stays with your pets.
  • On the beach
    A rare beachfront property in the area - enjoy direct access to the sand and sea.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Near Caswell Beach
3 bedrooms2+ bathroomsSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • On beach
  • Onsite parking available
  • Dog-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Oak Island, NC
  • Place, Caswell Beach
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Place, Oak Island Lighthouse
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Ocean Crest Pier
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Airport, Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.)
    ‪51 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Single Bunk Beds

2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Outdoor shower!

Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden

About this property

House of Zen - Walk to the beach, Huge fenced back yard, Outdoor shower!

The House of Zen is a charming beach cottage located about 5 minutes from the Oak Island's Beaches. Relax by the outdoor fire pit in a FENCED backyard that is great for your children and pets! This is a true private oasis and the beach is an easy drive, walk, or bike ride.

We have bikes, beach chairs, and a buggy to make the trip down to the beach easier or to visit the close by parks and restaurants. The detached building, Zen Den, has a bedroom set up and an office for those who need a remote workplace for a longer stay!

The main house has two bedrooms and the two bathrooms. One room is set up as a kids room with two sets of twin bunk beds while the other is the primary bedroom that has a King size bed.

The detached building is the Zen Den! It has a Queen sized bed, TV, and an office for those who need some extra space or a place to work while visiting! The home is set up with keypad locks that are synced up so that you can have quick access back and forth from the detached room and main house and be secure.

The backyard is fenced in and has access to the shed. In the shed you will find bikes, beach chairs, ladder golf, bocci ball and a buggy for getting all the gear to the beach! A pump and some hardware for the bikes is in there as well just in case.

Pet Fee:
The pet fee covers up to 2 pets! Please make sure your reservation is updated properly. If you are traveling with more than 2 pets, please reach out - sometimes we can accommodate an additional pet on a case-by-case basis for an additional fee. Thanks!
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
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

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 3 total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Please clean up after your pets in the yard!
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Bike locks combo 3232

Important information

You need to know

Property # 2875435vb
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
Long-term renters welcome
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
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Oak Island

Located in Tranquil Harbour, a neighbourhood in Oak Island, this holiday home is next to a golf course and on the beach. Oak Island Lighthouse and Bald Head Island Lighthouse are local landmarks, and some of the area's attractions include North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport and North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Kayaking and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hunting and cycling nearby.
View more Holiday homes in Oak IslandOpens in a new window
Map
Oak Island, NC

What's nearby

  • Caswell Beach - 16 min walk - 1.4 km
  • Oak Island Golf Club - 4 min drive - 3.7 km
  • Oak Island Lighthouse - 8 min drive - 7.3 km
  • Ocean Crest Pier - 8 min drive - 5.4 km
  • Holden Beach - 39 min drive - 52.6 km

Getting around

  • Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) - 48 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Circle K - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Tengu Japanese Steakhouse - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Lazy Turtle Bar & Grill - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Paul's of Oak Island - ‬3 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is House of Zen - Walk to the beach, Huge fenced back yard, Outdoor shower! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 3 total).

How much is parking at House of Zen - Walk to the beach, Huge fenced back yard, Outdoor shower!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at House of Zen - Walk to the beach, Huge fenced back yard, Outdoor shower!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at House of Zen - Walk to the beach, Huge fenced back yard, Outdoor shower!?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is House of Zen - Walk to the beach, Huge fenced back yard, Outdoor shower! located?

Located in Tranquil Harbour, this beachfront holiday home is next to a golf course, 0.7 mi (1.1 km) from Caswell Beach, and 2.4 mi (3.9 km) from Oak Island Golf Club. Bay Beach and Ocean Crest Pier are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 31 out of 38 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 38 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 38 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

8/10 Good

Jason W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to stay if you have pets. Would definitely consider staying there again.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Apr 2026
Thanks for staying with us and taking care of our home!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kelly B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Max was a great host and always responded promptly to questions or concerns.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Jul 2026
You guys were great - thanks for staying with us!!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Tyler G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was very nice! It was a great spot with a great view! It was also only a mile from the beach and had bikes for us to ride to the beach. Overall, great stay and I highly recommend.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Jun 2026
Appreciate the stay and review, welcome anytime!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Teddy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The host was very responsive and welcoming. The house was perfect for my needs. A great time on the island!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Dec 2025
Thank you so much for staying with us. So glad you enjoyed- appreciate the review and feedback!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jamie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice place loved the separate bedroom .
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Oct 2025
Thank you so much - you guys were great and we are so glad that you had a wonderful trip!!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Ravi M.

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

Zen vacation

Was a very enjoyable stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Apr 2024
Thank you- welcome back anytime!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

audrey m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great stay at house of zen. The yard was great for sitting by a fire and our dogs loved the huge yard. Will definitely book again!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Sept 2025
Thank you so much- you guys were great and are welcome back anytime!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Bill B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to bring your Dogs. Ours enjoyed the large, fenced in yard and the beach which was only a 10 minute walk away. Max was a very helpful host and very responsive to any questioned, etc.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Jan 2026
Thank you! You guys were great and so glad that you and the family enjoyed. Thanks for the feedback and review!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jeff R.

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

Very enjoyable stay

We had a very enjoyable stay. At the end of our stay, we left feeling relaxed and very ZEN. Would stay here again!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2024
ZENNN- thank you!!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We enjoyed our stay. No problem with check in.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Aug 2025
Thank you- you guys were great. So glad you had a good experience!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kristen S.

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

loved our stay!

House of Zen was the perfect slot for our Spring Break! Quiet location was perfect for relaxing and we took advantage of the bikes to explore the island. Can’t wait to return!
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Apr 2025
Thank you! You guys were great- so glad the bikes were a hit!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Nancy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great house for folks traveling with pets. The fenced backyard was a huge hit with our furry friends. The owner was very responsive and accommodating.
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Jan 2026
Amazing guest- thanks for taking care of our home, the review, and feedback!
Verified review

8/10 Good

mary h.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great back yard for pets. Easy walk to the beach and close to good resturants. Host was very responsive and easy to work with.
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Oct 2025
THank you so much - you guys were great and we appreciate you taking care of our home!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Susie M.

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

Great Vacation

This property was just as advertised. The neighborhood was quiet and the home was perfect for our family.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Aug 2025
Thank you! You guys were great - truly appreciate the feedback!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Cara S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed here with my husband and our dog. Had a great stay. Neighborhood was safe and quiet. House was exactly what we needed. Close proximity to the beach, restaurants and grocery stores. Would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Sept 2025
Thank you so much, you guys were great! So happy you had a good time and we appreciate the review. Welcome back anytime!
Verified review

8/10 Good

Ken H.

Host was great and welcoming! House was a little dirty, d
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Dec 2025
Thank you for the review and feedback. Wish you would’ve let us know so we could’ve gotten our team out to fix any issues but overall I’m glad you guys had a great day. Welcome back anytime!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Michael B.

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

Awesome stay! Would love to stay there again!

The house was perfect for our family. My girls enjoyed their private room away from the parents.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Apr 2024
Thank you so much!
Verified review

8/10 Good

Desiree D.

Liked: Communication, location, listing accuracy
The location was great. Close enough to walk to the beach, quiet neighborhood. Communication with the owner was great Max was very responsive. The yard was great for the pups.
Stayed 6 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Dan C.

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

Great Location

This is a nice place with a great location. Good communication with the owners.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Sept 2024
Thank you! Glad you had a great trip and we hope to have you back again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Carrie B.

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

Great stay!

Just 2 adults and 2 pups- plenty of room. Pups loved the big backyard! Kitchen had everything we needed, great location, easy walk/drive to beach access and restaurants, great communication with host! Would stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Apr 2024
Thank you soo much!! We appreciate you choosing us!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Blaine G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had an amazing trip to oak island thanks to max and letting us stay at their beautiful beach home! We brought our dog for his first ever beach trip and he loved every minute of it, we made lots of friends and made lots of great memories, this home was beautiful and spacious, the master bedroom cute and comfortable, and the kitchen and the backyard were my favorite spots in the house! Will definitely book again for a friends trip ! Not a far walk to the beach so the location was perfect:)
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Jul 2025
Thank you so much Blaine- you guys were great and we are so glad that you enjoyed!! Appreciate the positive feedback and reach out if you ever want to return!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Austin E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was great overall. Very clean and had everything you need for a long weekend stay. The beds were not the most comfortable thing, but that’s pretty typical in rentals from my experience. The extra bedroom outside was fantastic since we had a baby with us! Gave her a safe, quiet place to sleep. The only other down fall was the automatic locking of the back door. Every time you went out you had to unlock the door to come back inside. It was a little annoying but not horrible.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Apr 2026
Thank you, so glad it was comfortable for you and the family! Appreciate you taking care of our home!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

jorge v.

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

jorge opinion

It was very pleasant nice and spacious close to the beach.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Jun 2025
Thanks Jorge- you guys were great and I am so glad you enjoyed your stay!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Randy B.

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

Wonderful beach getaway!!!

This was a great cozy little place. Hosts were very communicative. House is very clean. Cool fenced-in yard in back. Short 10-minute walk to the beach. We would definitely come back to stay again
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Dec 2024
Thank you Randy- so glad you had a great holiday!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Valerie F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was perfect for our family. Set up as pictured. Clean, comfy and cozy. The backyard is a bonus with the lights and the fire pit. The dogs enjoyed the fenced in yard almost as much as we did. We even were able to walk to the beach from the house. Close to the shops and restaurants. Will plan to come back here! Thanks for the memories!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Oct 2025
Thank you so much- you guys were great. Appreciate the feedback and support!

About the host

Hosted by Max McGee

Host profile image
Me and my best friend Eric grew up in Wilmington, NC! A few years back we bought some long term rentals as an investment, but then realized that our passion was in the vacation/short term rental world. We love to travel and being able to provide people with an experience that we would want to have is what this is all about. This is about having a place to come and unwind and create memories while being the comfort of a home. Please come be our guest and don't hesitate to connect with us if your experience isn't 5 STARS!

Why they chose this property

The House of Zen is just the perfect little beach cottage. Cozy, accessible, and private. We have a huge back yard that is fenced in, the area is really quiet, you can walk to the beach, or just use the bikes we have to get all over the island. Just a fun little spot where you can navigate the beautiful Oak Island and surrounding areas.

What makes this property unique

The location is really awesome. You are not only close to the beach, but also super close Myrtle Beach, Southport and Wilmington where there are also downtown areas and other forms of entertainment.

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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