3 Acre Waterfront Retreat sleeps up to 24, easy walk to historic district

Nestled on a peaceful dead-end road just minutes from Beaufort's Historic District, this unique property offers the perfect blend of history, charm, and comfort. This renovated former church is now a spacious 5-bedroom home ideal for family reunions or group gatherings. It's our hidden oasis in a lively and historic coastal town. The sanctuary itself was built in 1933 in the small fishing village of Bettie, and was later moved to Beaufort in 1979 when they added the fellowship hall. In 2019 we purchased the property and began the long process of renovating and creating The Crystal Coast Sanctuary Retreat.

The property is just a 15-minute leisurely walk (or an 8-minute bike ride) to the Historic District's waterfront, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, bars, and museums. Back at home, enjoy our serene maritime forest backyard, home to waterfowl, fish, and deer. Relax on the swing under the old live oaks or gather around the firepit in one of three creekside seating areas. With 400 feet of waterfront, you can soak in the tranquil coastal breeze while spotting egrets, herons, ibis, and ospreys. And don’t miss the spectacular sunsets!

Our kayak-accessible creek flows into Town Creek Bay and Gallant’s Channel, perfect for paddling adventures. History buffs will enjoy discovering the old menhaden railroad bed, once used by the Fishmeal Company, which runs along the back of our property.

Inside, the open floor plan offers plenty of space for cooking, entertaining, or relaxing. The fully equipped kitchen features a 5-burner glass-top induction stove with two ovens (one large convection and one small), a large microwave, a full-size refrigerator, and a commercial dishwasher. With ample cookware, dishes, and glasses, hosting a feast is easy, and our wraparound bar comfortably seats 9. The bunkhouse has two bathrooms (each with two toilets). The attached sanctuary has a shower room with two showers, a washer/dryer, a fantastic outdoor shower, a 1/2 bath and a full bath.

The bunkhouse side includes four private bedrooms (no sheets provided—rental available for $10/bed with one week's notice):

2 queen bedrooms and
2 bedrooms with 6 single bunks each (total of 12 single beds).

The attached sanctuary bldg boasts a stunning multi-purpose space featuring comfortable seating, four sofa beds, two dining/game tables, a stage, an 85" smart TV, a hallway halfbath and a private master queen size suite with full bath and private covered porch.

Step outside the bunkhouse to enjoy our beautiful 500 sq. ft. covered back porch. The decor throughout the home reflects decades of our family’s love for the area, featuring unique artifacts, natural treasures, and local art.

For a detailed video tour by owner Ann go to You Tube channel Simple Southern Garden, episode "This Place Is Amazing!!"

Leave your car parked and explore Beaufort by foot, bike, or kayak! There’s plenty of parking for boat trailers, and public beaches are just a short 5–15 minute drive away (Radio Island or Atlantic Beach). Or take a ferry from Front Street to Rachel Carson Nature Preserve, Shackleford Banks, or Cape Lookout to experience wild ponies, dolphins, and pristine sands.

We live nearby and are happy to offer recommendations for activities and local spots to explore. We hope you’ll enjoy this little slice of heaven as much as we do!

PLEASE REMEMBER:
Quiet hours: 10 PM to 7 AM.
This is our family home—please respect our property and leave everything as you found it. If something breaks, just let us know!
Special events/parties require prior approval. Additional event fees or security deposits may apply. Groups of more than 24 people are not allowed without permission.
We look forward to hosting you!