Romantic island retreat surrounded by majestic trees

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Entire home

Surrounded by trees, inspiring views from every window.

Kitchen is equipped with dishes, cookware and basics, spices- all you need.

Cozy loft bedroom with master bath upstairs.

Couch folds out to queen inflatable mattress. It's actually very comfortable.

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

1 bedroom0+ bathroomsSleeps 2850 sq ft

Popular amenities

Dryer
Fireplace
Washer
Parking available
Hot tub
Kitchen

Explore the area

Shelton, WA

Jarrell Cove State Park
‪6 min drive‬
Harstine Island State Park
‪9 min drive‬
Mason Lake
‪29 min drive‬
Tacoma, WA (TIW-Tacoma Narrows)
‪73 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

1 half bathroom

Main floor

Toilet

Master bath

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Dining area

About this property

With the goal of creating the perfect get-away for two, we have just completed a custom cottage in the gated Hartstene Pointe Community on Hartstene Island. To help you experience the extraordinary natural setting we provide two kayaks, bikes and paddle boards.

Enveloped in towering trees, this romantic getaway is built for a peaceful retreat, or adventure - as you can hike, bike or kayak (included) & walk along the beautiful sandy beaches and miles of wooded trails. Just three-minute walk to the beach. Recharge as you breath in the majestic greenery of this quiet secluded hideaway. Other amenities include outdoor heated pool and tennis courts at the Clubhouse.

The house has 23-foot ceilings with floor to ceiling glass providing a dramatic connection to the old growth douglas fir and cedar trees that surround you. The architectural open stairs, the fireplace mantel & hearth and dining room table are all custom made from the trees harvested from the site.

Designed as a romantic getaway, the house also has a comfortable queen sofa / bed in the living room in front of the fireplace. There is a bathroom off the kitchen on the main floor and a master bath off the cozy loft bedroom. The fully equipped gourmet kitchen is stocked with everything you'll need to complete your delicious creations.

Property manager

Daniel Johnson

Premier Host

Languages

English, Portuguese

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool

Hot tub

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Free WiFi

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Hot tub
Kitchen
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 25

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Adults only

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Shelton

Located in Shelton, this cottage is on the waterfront. Fair Harbor Marina and Trillium Creek Winery are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Jarrell Cove State Park and Harstine Island State Park. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Shelton, WA

What's nearby

Jarrell Cove State Park - 6 min drive - 4.0 km
Harstine Island State Park - 9 min drive - 6.0 km
Mason Lake - 29 min drive - 26.0 km
Twanoh State Park - 50 min drive - 34.0 km
Joint Base Lewis-McChord - 75 min drive - 87.1 km

Getting around

South Tacoma Station - 78 min drive
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) - 105 min drive

Restaurants

‪Close To Home Espresso - ‬53 min drive
‪Big Bubba's Burgers - ‬34 min drive
‪Spencer Lake Bar & Grill - ‬17 min drive
‪Sail On In - ‬34 min drive
‪El Sombrero Key Center - ‬53 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Romantic island retreat surrounded by majestic trees have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.

Is Romantic island retreat surrounded by majestic trees pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Romantic island retreat surrounded by majestic trees?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Romantic island retreat surrounded by majestic trees?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Romantic island retreat surrounded by majestic trees located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is 2.5 mi (3.9 km) from Jarrell Cove State Park and within 6 miles (10 km) of Harstine Island State Park and McMicken Island State Park. Graham Point and Fudge Point are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Molly B.

16 Apr, 2025

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

The perfect getaway

This place gave us just what we needed, some much needed time away in a beautiful home and a gorgeous wooded and quiet neighborhood by the water. The walk to the beach was the perfect distance, complete with a deer sighting. The house itself was so stylishly decorated and comfortable. Communication with the owners was seamless. Would definitely stay here again.

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

ROTIESHA C.

4 Mar, 2025

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

Birthday Weekend Surprise

It was exactly what we needed, and the gift my husband can’t stop talking about. Our visit was so refreshing we are looking at property to purchase ourselves. We left with a new vision and deeper gratitude

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julie L.

30 Jan, 2025

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

Beautiful Place

Lovely home and there are so many trails to walk in addition to the beach.The ammenitys are outstanding. Got to watch 2 older deers, and two younger deers and one yearling playing around running throught the property.You can see both Mt. Raineer and the Olympics from the beach.

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brendon C.

18 Dec, 2024

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

Wonderful spot

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Casey H.

24 Nov, 2024

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

Absolutely fantastic, again!

My wife and I came back here for our third time. Yes - it's that amazing! If you're into nature and all that Harstine Island has to offer, this is the house to stay in!

Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kandyce K.

15 Oct, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

So wonderful!

This was a wonderful stay! Very quiet and peaceful. We did have internet and wifi, which was nice! Only thing to keep in mind, is neighbors are close by! So while it is secluded in a way, it is also not. In other words, be careful what you wear around in the cabin at night with the lights on haha

Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bryan F.

26 Sept, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

Pure serenity

My wife and I stayed here for 3 nights over our anniversary. The home is incredible and the nature is fantastic. It is so beautiful inside with gorgeous views of large trees right out the front picture windows. The custom woodwork from trees on the property and design of the home make it so comfortable and inviting. It's truly a special place and you feel connected to nature. There are quite a few homes in the community, but regardless, it is extremely quiet and there are so many trees that you still feel secluded. We road the bikes and hiked around the coastline and down to the local dock. From the north and eastern shores of the island there are beautiful views of Mt. Rainier on a clear day. The town of Spencer Lake is only about 15 minutes away, with a small market, and Olympic Bakery and Deli. We loaded up on groceries and did most of our own cooking while at the cabin, which has a kitchen with everything you might need. The only challenge we had was finding the key during the check-in process. We were delayed and unable to arrive until 9-10pm. I would strongly recommend getting to the key pickup prior to sunset. To help others who may have this challenge, follow the GPS to the address provided for key pickup and once you hit a dirt road, STOP - you are right by the key. Regardless of the scavenger hunt we had for the key, the place was completely worth it. We absolutely loved our time there and we would love to return. It is a very special home.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

EDWARD F.

9 Sept, 2024

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

Break from babysitting grandchildren

It was quiet, comfortable and a great place for decompressing.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth D.

5 Sept, 2024

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

Peaceful & quiet retreat

Just what we were looking for - a quiet retreat in nature. Loved walking the trails and taking the kayaks out!

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Eddie F.

3 Sept, 2024

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

Beautiful spot in the woods

Beautiful spot, as described. Had a great time using the Kayaks!

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Slaed S.

28 Aug, 2024

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

2nd time was just as good as the 1st!

My wife and I had another special week on Harstine without the kids. We were able to escape all the other distractions that come with life. This house is perfect for the two of us to get away from it all and just relax and enjoy living in the PNW. Thank you.

Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

M C.

27 Aug, 2024

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

A quiet peaceful woodsy getaway

We spent a long rainy August weekend soaking in the peace and quiet of the woods. Walked the many nearby trails, wandered along the beach and cooked in the well stocked kitchen. We also enjoyed a few games of ping pong and pickleball at the rec center which was just a short walk away. The host responded immediately to questions. We brought several board games which we enjoyed playing. The home has lots of books and a few puzzles. The bed was comfortable and the space was perfect for the 2 of us. Key pick up was a bit tough to find- very glad we didnt attempt it at night. Also there are no tvs in this home. We love relaxing with a good movie so brought a comouter monitor and our firetv stick. Will definitely return to this beautiful home.

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kip T.

2 Aug, 2024

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

Wonderful

The place is just as advertised. Prettier than the pictures. Highly recommend. The only thing I would say is to come with food. The nearest restaurant is 15 minutes away and the nearest grocery is 30.

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christina W.

19 Jul, 2024

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

Incredibly relaxing

Great property. The home was comfortable and had everything we needed. Communication with owner was great.

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kurt W.

10 Jul, 2024

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

Relaxing stay in the woods

Beautiful property in a wonderful development. Access to the water, amazing ocean views from the parks, great hiking trails, all while staying in a comfortable well appointed little house in the trees. Very enjoyable stay.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Scott S.

22 Jun, 2024

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

Amazing getaway.

For a couple, this place is amazing. Well and beautifully appointed, charming, cozy. Many activity options, with equipment provided - kayaking, biking, tennis. Very relaxing environment. Harstine Is. Is a gated community, with many lovely homes, and quick access to the water.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bill W.

21 Jun, 2024

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

Nice spot to unwind.

Nice little house in the woods and near the beach. Fun kayaks. Excellent shower. No TV and spotty cell service, which we considered plusses.

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Livia S.

14 Jun, 2024

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

Anniversary gateway

Restful gateway….love the natural surroundings! Indeed feel like being in the treehouse, perfect way to reconnect & rejuvenation.

Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Becky N.

8 Jun, 2024

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

Beautiful and Quiet

Stayed here for a week, the house and view were beautiful. The kitchen is very nicely appointed! The Olympic National Park was within 1-3 hours, depending on where you visit, so suitable for day trips, but the trails around the neighborhood are pretty great too. There are a lot of windows and the neighborhood is quiet, but if you’re used to sleeping in a dark room make sure to bring an eye mask.

Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Megan W.

24 May, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

Close to, but not on the water

Interior pictures were accurate. Heating was a bit confusing. We were disappointed that the house was not waterfront. We had used VRBO to do a waterfront search as we were hoping to walk our kayaks to the water. The listing clearly states it's a 3-minute walk to the water, but it must be tagged waterfront, which is inaccurate. The house was clean and lovely to use. It is in a heavily forested area, so no sunshine. It was quiet and private. The kayaking was great and so was the clamming. I would stay here again.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jean H.

20 May, 2024

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

Anniversary

Comfy, cozy, quiet, private - great walking paths, beach access.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Terry N.

28 Mar, 2024

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

Better than described!

First class PNW cabin … better than described and pictures. Very responsive owner! Will stay again!

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Casey H.

2 Dec, 2023

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

Incredible home in the trees

This is the second time we've stayed here now, and we don't expect it to be the last. This place is in the perfect spot to enjoy Hartstine Pointe and the surrounding area. We highly recommend this place, especially for couples!

Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Alyssa H.

28 Nov, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful home but not a lot of privacy

Every photo of this listing will do it an injustice. It's truly wonderfully finished and appointed. Most amenities were provided and once the charming fire warmed it up, it was very cozy. The surrounding area is nice for walks and the beach is spectacular. However, it is in a gated community and you'll need to get a keycard before arriving. You will also be very close to neighbors and it was short window coverings for my taste. No issues with communication and the host was quick to respond to any issues.

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sara M.

13 Oct, 2023

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

A Hidden Gem

The House in the Trees is a hidden gem! The perfect place to reconnect, refresh and breathe. Perfect for a couple!

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

About the host

Hosted by Daniel Johnson

Daniel was born in the NW and his lived here all his life. His father was a forester moving to Washington State from Chicago for the trees and mountains.

Elaine was born in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Her father was a chemist and moved his family to Washington State to pursue a career in pulp & paper. Both families moved here for the trees!

Daniel & Elaine met at the University of Washington, graduating with degrees in Social Work. They have spent their rewarding careers working with children & families and supporting community based organizations.

Why they chose this property

Daniel grew up in Shelton. He has memories of his dad taking him and his twin brother Dave to Harstine Island on the two-car ferry before the bridge to the island was built.

Our family loves the natural beauty of the Pacific NW. We have always enjoyed hiking, camping and boating. When our parents passed away, we decided to use a portion of the inheritance to build a special place to honor thier history and passion for nature.

In designing the house we wanted showcase the majesty of the towering Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedar trees with the floor to ceiling windows. Special windows were installed in the loft bedroom so you can see the trees when you are lying in bed, giving you the experience of being high above the ground in a treehouse.

Seeing the trees through the windows was not enough. We wanted to bring the beauty of the trees into the house, so we used the trees harvested from the site for the fireplace mantel & hearth, stairs, bookshelves, dinning room table and bathroom vanities.

What makes this property unique

This unique location is a true escape. It offers you the opportunity to experience the national park like setting while staying in a gorgeous and well appointed retreat. The beaches at Hartstene Pointe are known to be the best on the island. There are miles of hiking trails and winding quiet roads for biking. We provide the kayaks, bikes and paddle boards so you make the most of your stay.