Tranquil Waterfront Home on Marblehead First Harbor, Deck-Garden-History-Shops

Welcome to Barnegat Bungalow: a waterfront cottage on Marblehead’s First Harbor with Peaceful Perennial Gardens, Seaside Deck with Cozy Seating and Fireplace.

Be mesmerized by the summer’s light dancing across the water, as the tide ebbs and flows to entice Blue Herons, Egrets and Osprey to fish in the shallows. The Cove is a place families and visitors to drop anchor and take a swim. Easterly facing, you will be greeted by magnificent sunrises and bid the day farewell as the light shifts to rock cliffs of Brown’s Island, and the breeze fills the sails of Thursday Night racers, or passing vessels. Full Moons are particularly noteworthy, and the Northern Lights were visible in 2024.

Barnegat Bungalow is an historic home (c. 1800), lovingly renovated in the early 2000’s to embrace an open-concept layout, separate sleeping quarters, office workspace for 2, with garden and harbor views. Our home is *not* accessible for those with any mobility challenges: multi-level, with stairs into/out of each room, entry ways and stairs are narrow/steep, and deck is also multi-level.

The main entrance is part of the original home, opening into the Family Room, anchored by a gas fireplace (decorative only) and cathedral ceilings. This room easily accommodates conversation, reading, or snuggling up to watch a movie on the flat screen TV.

The larger living space is part of an addition - it provides expansive views of the gardens, the cove and Brown's Island. There is a gourmet kitchen, granite counters and a dining table which can expand for 10. The focal point of the space is the window seat overlooking the water and gardens - perfect for morning coffee, afternoon naps or being still to enjoy the butterflies and birds peacefully visiting the gardens.

When you are hungry, the chef's kitchen boasts counter space/island, stainless steel appliances, a drawer full of spices, a Keurig Coffee Maker, and all the gadgets you need to prepare your favorite dishes. If you prefer grilling, step outside and the gas grill awaits.

After your meal, gather around the dining room table for a board game or try to catch sight of an Osprey, Egret or Heron, fishing in the low tide.

The perennial gardens are designed for pollinators, with something of interest blooming 3+ seasons. There are several seating areas setup, depending on the view you desire. A Secret Garden Swing fully immerses you into the garden experience - don't’ be surprised if a hummingbird stops to take a drink. If rocking chairs are your preference, they too are available. Dining al fresco is on the spacious multi-level deck which has views of Little Harbor. Cook up (or Pick Up) quintessential lobster bake. Sip mocktails/cocktails in any and all of these seating areas. Walk barefoot in the grass - we are pesticide free. Get sand between your toes. Stay hidden, swinging in the Secret Garden. Take a dip in the ocean - public beaches are steps away. Return and jump into the outdoor shower. Gather around the outdoor fireplace - adding even more magic to your stay as the moon rises above the water, lighting up the yard with its glow. Rinse. Repeat.

Our neighborhood is referred to as Barnegat, where the lands were used for grazing, hunting, fishing and later for smuggling, piracy, booze and debauchery. Our streets were cow-paths, with a nod to history everywhere: from Naumkeag Peoples to the Healer accused of witchcraft, the first Black-owned business, oldest cemetery in New England, and the land steward who protected our town Islands.

If the outdoors is appealing, the town offers acres of Conservation Area for you to explore, including a Bird Sanctuary. If waters and harbors are the allure, you will be on the First Harbor and walking distance to the Main harbor, around the corner from 2 ponds with tidal waters revealing opportunities to swim or kayak or mudflat exploring to Brown's Island. Quaint shops, a grocery store, the Marblehead Museum and Historical Landmarks are up the street. Restaurants and pubs will feed and entertain you. It is a magical place!