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A beach cottage gem...

Photo gallery for A beach cottage gem...

Welcome to Driftwood! Heaven on Earth!
Taken from Harkness looking back toward Driftwood
Watching the sunset every summer evening
Looking at Driftwood from the blue sky
East side of the cottage, looking West

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 683.6 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Ocean view
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View map
Waterford, CT
  • Place, Harkness Memorial State Park
    ‪14 min walk‬
  • Place, Waterford Beach Park
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Ocean Beach Park
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Airport, New London, CT (GON-Groton - New London)
    ‪17 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 1

2 Single Beds

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Outdoor shower

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Outdoor shower
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

A beach cottage gem...

Built in a bygone era, and completely remodeled, Driftwood cottage is one-of-a-kind. It sits on a private beach with uninterrupted views of the Long Island Sound. Walk down 8 steps, and you're on a lovely, white sand beach. Go for a dip, build sandcastles, read, nap and enjoy stunning sunsets. Sleep to the lulling lapping of the waves.

The Cottage has weathered wooden shingles and a deep green trim, and it's bordered by tended gardens on one side and native grasses and flowers in front - between the porch and the sea. The 900 square foot interior has been remodeled and now has a sophisticated open feel. We've kept a few of the antiques, but otherwise the furniture is new.

All rooms have views of the ocean and open into the living area and the fully-equipped modern kitchen. It's one level with 3 bedrooms and 1 bath. All bedrooms and beds have ocean views. The master bedroom has a queen bed. The other bedrooms have just been redone - more pictures coming soon -into a queen; the other now has a two twins that can combined to make a king. There is a new truly comfortable sleeper sofa for additional guests. The bathroom has a shower and bathtub. There are wood floors throughout, except for the tiled kitchen and bathroom.

A short walk down the beach takes you to a nature preserve where there is birdwatching and access to Harkness Memorial State Park, with its grand lawns and stunning gardens. And, behind the Cottage, there is an enormous lawn where you can kick around a soccer ball, throw a frisbee or a football. It is shared with families who also live around this cul-de-sac.

If you feel like an outing, you can visit nearby historic towns, like Stonington or Mystic, take a ferry and then bike around Block Island, shop at farmer's markets, attend outdoor concerts, tour wineries, sail, kayak, fish, play tennis or take in a play at the Eugene O'Neil Theatre, a mile away.

When you're ready for a day in the city, consider Providence for surprisingly exquisite food, art and entertainment. (We love New Rivers for dinner.) You might also enjoy an evening at Waterfire, bonfires floating down the Providence river in the city center. Or catch the train to NYC for gourmet dining, shopping, and a world class art and theater scene. On the way you could check out New Haven, see the centuries-old Gutenberg Bible at the Beineke Library and eat the best pizza this side of the Atlantic.

When you return, you can throw fresh produce on the grill and chill out on your private porch with a glass of whatever suits you. You may even make s'mores over your own bonfire on the beach. In the cooler months, you might enjoy cozying-up around the old stone fireplace after a day of leaf-peeping along Connecticut's riverways.

Driftwood is well-loved and cared for, full of happy memories. We hope you, too, make your own wonderful memories here! You may just want to come back year after year!

Amenities include:
Fully-equipped modern kitchen
Outdoor grill
Outdoor shower
Beach chairs, towels and toys
Fireplace
WiFi
TV
Indoor dining table
Outdoor picnic table for lunch in the middle of a beach day or alfresco dinners by candlelight
Heating
Washer
Dryer
Free parking on premises
Wheelchair accessible
Books
Board games
Cards
Hangers
Iron
Hair Drier
Laptop friendly workspace


Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Wonderful for children and families!
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Events

No events allowed
Please check with the owner about exceptions.
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
Please check with the owner beforehand.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No smoking in or near the cottage.
Minimum stay-While we make exceptions, generally from May-September we require a week's stay-Saturday to Saturday.

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
Note from host: Please check with the owner about exceptions.
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 and a first aid kit

About the area

Waterford

Located in Waterford, this cottage is on the beach. Mystic Seaport is a cultural highlight and some of the area's popular attractions include Ocean Beach Park and Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration. Custom House Maritime Museum and Garde Arts Center are also worth visiting. Jet skiing, kayaking and waterskiing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking nearby.
View more Cottages in WaterfordOpens in a new window
Map
Waterford, CT

What's nearby

  • Harkness Memorial State Park - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Waterford Beach Park - 2 min drive - 2.2 km
  • Ocean Beach Park - 5 min drive - 4.3 km
  • New London Ferry Dock - 9 min drive - 8.8 km
  • United States Coast Guard Academy - 10 min drive - 10.9 km

Getting around

  • New London Union Station - 9 min drive
  • New London, CT (GON-Groton - New London) - 18 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Cumberland Farms - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Ocean Pizza - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪NV Bakery & Market - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Dunkin' - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is A beach cottage gem... pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much does it cost to stay at A beach cottage gem...?

As of 18 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at A beach cottage gem... on 29 Apr 2026 start from AU$670, 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 A beach cottage gem...?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at A beach cottage gem...?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at A beach cottage gem...?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is A beach cottage gem... located?

Nestled on the beach, this Waterford cottage is within 2 mi (3 km) of Harkness Memorial State Park, Pleasure Beach and Waterford Beach Park. Ocean Beach Park and Eugene O'Neill Theater Center are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

10

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. 64 out of 67 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 67 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 67 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 67 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 67 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jessica L.

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

Great location!

We enjoyed this private spot right on the water and the cozy cottage that had everything we needed.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kat D.

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

Beach house getaway

Perfect place to bring a book, coffee and a bucket to collect your sea glass. Always refreshing staying here!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John C.

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

Early Summer Family Stay

Our family had a short stay in this absolutely beautiful location. Can't beat the views of Long Island sound,and being literally right on the beach.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lori S.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mini Get-Away

Our stay at the Driftwood was Amazing, The location can't be beat! The neighbors where really nice as well.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Billie G.

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

Serene beach retreat

Everything we were hoping for. Quiet except for the sounds of the waves. Beach just steps away. Comfortable and quickly felt like home.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amanda G.

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

A gem of a beach cottage

“Driftwood cottage” was everything we were looking for when planning our visit. Clean, well appointed, comfortable and on the beach. This place is truly a gem. Hated to leave!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lori B.

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

Dream stay at Driftwood

Perfect location for a getaway. Cottage was perfectly appointed and didn’t disappoint! Even woke up to snow. Would highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrea N.

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

Perfect beach cottage

Beautiful cottage right in the beach! Fully stocked and comfortable. Would stay here again! Beautiful beach on the CT shore. We really enjoyed sitting on the porch and listening to the waves.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

terence o.

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

Perfect Beach House

The location is perfect. The beach is very private and enjoyable. We love the sound of waves crashing and birds calling. Lots to do nearby if you want, but we preferred the serenity.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

catherine H.

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

ocean winter

Beautiful beach house. Very cozy!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bobbie H.

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

Family Vacation

A summer vacation away from the hustle and bustle. Loved antiquing, jogging on the private beach, sitting on the porch listening to the waves crashing, and eating fresh seafood in a few restaurants recommended by the locals. We would love to come back to this area, and stay in this charming cottage.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly W.

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

Exactly what I Needed

I cannot say enough about the fantastic location and perfect cottage. I chose this place for its location and some peace and quiet. It delivered and has now become a special part of my story. I’ll return soon!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jimmy L.

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

The winner!

The first word that came to mind when we got there was "stunning". The location was just stunning!! We did a short stay and wanted to book again that same day. The house was comfy, clean with an open concept, just the right size for us with an ocean view from most rooms. Loved the porch! The property manager was most accommodating and we will book again without a doubt.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brenda D.

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

Hidden Gem

Quite impressed! We loved it ! A few minor issues with a neighbor but easily resolved. Conveniently located with plenty of privacy.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pat M.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Check-in

Wonderful

Property is beautiful and the location is unbeatable. Extremely relaxing and pleasant experience. The only problem was check in, as I did not get anything from VRBO ahead of time with check in information. Fortunately I was able to finally get in touch with the owner.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Greg T.

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

Driftwood is a piece of heaven.

Better than expected. This was a very peaceful cottage on the sound. I was surprised how loud the waves were. Wonderful place to celebrate, contemplate, laugh, cry, walk, collect rocks, Seaglass, bird watch have a glass of wine maybe a shot of tequila. Very beautiful will definitely return also communication with fantastic and the neighbors were exceedingly friendly long live Driftwood !
Stayed 8 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Theresa O.

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

A Slice of Heaven!

Driftwood is everything we imagined and more. The cottage is beautifully and tastefully appointed, inside and out. We loved walking into the open dining/kitchen/livingroom area and seeing nothing but ocean out the large picture window. The cottage sits right on the beach. Listening to the gentle lapping of the waves and sitting in Adirondack chairs on the front porch overlooking the ocean brought us peace and relaxation. Everyone we met was friendly and welcoming. The owner, Annie, answered any questions promptly and was wonderful to deal with. We can't wait to come back next year!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christopher R.

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

Wonderful Location and Peaceful Retreat

This cottage is beautiful and very cozy. We could not ask for a better spot. Truly a remnant of a bygone era and is a magical place!
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer M.

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

Serene beach getaway

This by far is the best rental property we have ever stayed at. The house is located in a charming, quiet neighborhood just steps from the beach. If you love listening to the sound of the waves, walking on the beach, and collecting shells/rocks, this is the perfect place to recharge. The house itself is thoughtfully laid out and decorated. Many conveniences such as a fully stocked kitchen, laundry, linens, towels, and beach supplies are included. My favorite part of each day was enjoying my morning coffee on the covered porch looking out at the ocean.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Geoffrey D.

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

Excellent beachfront cottage

Beautiful location. The front porch looking over the beach is especially enjoyable. Kitchen is well supplied. Very peaceful.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gary G.

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

Hope to come back soon

The home and the beachfront setting were great! My wife and I, and our dog, had a great time in the house and on the beach. Also the neighboring people were all nice and helpful, and if we needed anything stores and take-out was close by. We just had a great time there. Gary & Pam
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susan T.

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

Perfect waterfront escape

We love The Driftwood Cottage.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Peter M.

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

First visit to Driftwood

The location was ideal, a few steps to the beautiful beach The house had everything we needed we are planning to return to enjoy many more relaxing vacation breaks
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rod L.

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

So grateful for our short time at Driftwood

The weather was crazy - cold and windy - and we still had a delightful time at Driftwood. In fact, my 79 year old mother told my brother and I that this was the best Mothers Day she has ever had. My husband loves to cook and the kitchen had everything he needed. Thank you so much for sharing your cozy beach home with us!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Martha T.

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

Location, location, location

This house is perfect for adults taking small children to the beach. You can keep them in eye sight. No big waves. We had one problem but the owner made things right. We were there before the high season so I don’t know how crowded the private beach is. The house is on a private road. There’s a reason it’s booked far in advance!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022

About the host

Hosted by Annie Wohlgenant

Host profile image
We are new "empty-nesters", with both our girls in college far from our home in Colorado. We love friends, family, the outdoors (skiing, fishing, rafting, biking, hiking, beachcoming, surfing, sailing), animals of all kinds, traveling, cooking, reading, learning from others who have different histories, perspectives and experiences. (If you have a hankering for the Rocky Mountains and rivers, you might be interested in our properties in Salida, for fishing, hiking and mountainbiking, or Breckenridge for skiing and boarding!)

Why they chose this property

Driftwood was built by a decorated Navy soldier in 1952. His daughter was like a grandmother to our children and a mother to us. We have been blessed to be coming to Driftwood since our children were small, and hope that one day our grandchildren will play in the waves! We inherited the property recently. While our hearts ache missing her, we know she loved sharing Driftwood with others who also loved it. (FYI - There aren't any vrbo reviews because until now, this property has been rented privately to friends and family who have returned, year after year, some for 50 years or more.) So, welcome to Driftwood! We hope sharing this place with you will help to make the whole world a little better!

What makes this property unique

It's a little piece of heaven - a sanctuary from the busyness of the Northeast. From the porch, take in the sea and sky. We wake early and stroll down the beach to birdwatch at Harkness. We spend the days playing or resting, according to our own hankerings, and we gather for sunset cocktails and seafood fresh off the grill. There's something so wonderful about walking a few paces from the beach, dipping your sandy feet in the iron tub and rinsing off in the outdoor shower. We've never slept so soundly and peacefully. We also love friendly our friendly neighbors. They all have a way of respecting your privacy, but making you feel welcome.

Languages:

English, Spanish
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