Newport News, VA (PHF-Newport News - Williamsburg Intl.)
Airport, Newport News, VA (PHF-Newport News - Williamsburg Intl.)
65 min drive
Room options
About the area
Gwynn
At this cottage you'll be within a 15-minute walk of Gwynn's Island Musuem and 2.7 km (1.7 mi) from Chesapeake Bay. .You can enjoy Smart televisions with a DVD player, and accommodation features a washer/dryer, free WiFi and a patio. In-room dining is easy with a kitchen that comes equipped with a fridge, a microwave and a stovetop. A living room, a private garden and a TV are also available. Limited housekeeping is available. .Spend the day at the beach where you'll find sunloungers. Other amenities include laundry facilities, a garden and charcoal grills.
Deltaville Maritime Museum - 27 min drive - 38.9 km
Holly Point Nature Park - 27 min drive - 38.9 km
Getting around
Newport News, VA (PHF-Newport News - Williamsburg Intl.) - 55 min drive
Restaurants
Hole In The Wall - 13 min walk
Howard-Dooley Cafe - 6 min drive
The Hatchery Culture - 9 min walk
Seafood Shack - 7 min drive
The Table at Wilton - 25 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Gwynn's Island Cottage - Waterfront with Private Beach + Sunsets over Water
Gwynn's Island Cottage is a waterfront cottage on the Chesapeake Bay with panoramic views and sunsets over the water. The small, private beach - entirely on the property and not shared - is mere steps away. We are pet friendly. The Cottage is located on quaint and historic Gwynn's Island with a public marina and restaurant 1/3 of a mile away on the island. The Cottage sleeps 4 guests in 2 bedrooms.
From the private beach, guests can swim, kayak, paddle board, fish and crab, bird watch, float on a raft, lounge or just enjoy a good book or an adult beverage. The Shed is full of everything you don't need to bring: beach chairs, zero gravity chairs, 3 kayaks, a stand up paddleboard, crab nets, crab pot, floats, rafts, noodles, children's beach toys, life vests, a croquet set, and hammock. Hills Bay is clean, shallow, and sandy-bottomed, with little current or tow, so perfect for children and explorers alike. Guests can fish right from the beach or from kayaks and can catch drum, trout, rockfish, croaker, spot and flounder. The crab pot or the fishing nets allow guests to catch crabs when they are in season.
After a quick rinse in the outdoor shower after your day on the beach and on the water, use the Weber kettle charcoal grill for cooking up the day’s catch or fresh seafood from a nearby market. Enjoy dinner al fresco on the deck overlooking the water as you watch that sunset... For cooler evenings, light a fire in the Bonfire Solo stove under the stars.
From the Cottage, guests experience bird life such as bald eagles nesting, blue herons, osprey, seagulls, white tundra swans, bufflehead ducks, loons, and dolphins, depending on the season. With a yacht club just across the water, you can watch all kinds of sail and motor boats coming in and out of Hills Bay from the Chesapeake as well as occasional boat races.
Or bring your own boat. There's plenty of room on the long, circular driveway to trailer in and out. The island's public boat landing is 1/3 of a mile away, with parking for your trailer while you are on the water and a restaurant for provisions.
The Cottage is pet-friendly! Four legged guests enjoy the beach with its shallow, clean water. We provide doggie towels. We own the small woods next door where dogs can "get their sniffs on."
If you plan to bring your pet, please message the manager with the age, breed, gender, weight, and name of your animal/s. We charge a pet fee of $125 for all animals for your entire stay (less than kennels or pet sitters). They will enjoy being with you on vacay.
Between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend, we rent by the week, Sunday to Sunday (less traffic on interstates than Saturdays). A two-night minimum the rest of the year.
We have a large capacity washer, dryer, and the laundry room has space to air dry. Our outdoor shower also has foot spigots. The Cottage has a smart TV with cable and wifi. If you bring your electric or hybrid vehicle, we have an electrical outlet (120v) on the front of the Cottage for charging.
The Cottage has a retro Frigidaire Mini-fridge that chills 6 cans of your favorite beverage and doubles as a Bluetooth speaker. Take it outside to play your tunes on the beach or deck.
The Cottage is perfect for special occasions or gatherings (with approval of management) because photos with a water view are ah-mazing.
Please read the over 200 reviews from the Cottage's guests, many of whom return over and over again. Our positive reviews reflect the guest-centered experience that we try to provide, continually using our guests' suggestions to improve amenities.
We are sorry but smoking is not permitted in the house or anywhere on our property.
Gwynn's Island Cottage is dedicated to welcoming all people regardless of their race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin or gender orientation.
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If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
No lift (single-level property)
Thin carpet in public areas
Tile flooring in public areas
Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Housekeeping (limited availability)
Iron/ironing board
Location highlights
In a rural location
In a village
Near a health/beauty spa
Near a hospital
Near the bay
Near the marina
On a river
On the waterfront
Things to do
Bicycles
Golf
Kayak
Water sports equipment
Basketball nearby
Birdwatching nearby
Cycling nearby
Ecotours nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Hunting nearby
Jet skiing nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Rafting nearby
Sailing nearby
Snorkelling nearby
Swimming nearby
Water skiing nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Windsurfing nearby
Winery tours nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Bicycles
Garden
Unit size: 1,200 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Minimum check-in age - 22
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out
Special check-in instructions
Guests will receive lockbox information
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
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, lock the doors and return the keys
We ask that guests launder any sheets or towels that were used during your stay (if you did not bring your own). If you don't finish a load, no problem, just let us know.
Text Cheri the manager when you check out. 434-962-0726.
In the keypad on the front door, please press SCHLAGE button, then the code, then turn thumb lock to the LEFT to engage the lock. Thanks!
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Rules
Please do not drive or park in the woods in back of the Shed. Our septic system is located there and it will cause serious damage.
Guests' use of the kayaks, SUP, rafts, grill, solo stove, beach and the water is at your own risk. Use life vests and protective footwear.
Please do not use the Weber Grill or the Solo stove on the wood deck or stoop.
Access methods
Lockbox
Pets
Pets are welcome
Only dogs and cats are allowed
Maximum 2 (weight limit: 50 lb per pet)
Restrictions apply
For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
Service animals are exempt from fees.
Note from host: With advance ok of management and pet fee of $125
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome.
Note from host: Small beach and shallow water are great for kids
Events
Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Special events and parties with okay of management
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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 30
Note from host: Special events and parties with okay of management
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, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 30. Note from host: Special events and parties with okay of management For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit and a deadbolt lock in all accommodation.
We should mention
To make arrangements for your pet, contact the property directly using the information on your booking confirmation.
Property is also known as
Gwynn's Island Cottage Reserve Your Stay 2019 Grimstead
Gwynn's Island Cottage Reserve Your Stay 2019
Gwynn's Island Reserve Your Stay 2019 Grimstead
Gwynn's Island Reserve Your Stay 2019
Gwynn's Island Cottage Reserve Your Stay Water Grimstead
Gwynn's Island Cottage Reserve Your Stay Water
Gwynn's Island Reserve Your Stay Water Grimstead
Gwynn's Island Reserve Your Stay Water
Gwynn's Island Cottage Reserve Your Stay for 2019
Gwynn's Island Cottage Reserve Your Stay for 2019
Gwynn's Island Cottage Book Your Summer Week Chesapeake Bay
Gwynn's Island Book Your Summer Week Chesapeake Bay Grimstead
Gwynn's Island Book Your Summer Week Chesapeake Bay
Gwynn's Island Cottage Book Your Summer Week Chesapeake Bay
Gwynn's Island Book Your Summer Week Chesapeake Bay Grimstead
Gwynn's Island Book Your Summer Week Chesapeake Bay
Gwynn's Island Cottage Reserve Your Stay on the Water!
Gwynn's Island Cottage Reserve Your Stay on the Water!
Gwynn's Island Cottage Reserve Your Stay on the Water!
Frequently asked questions
Are there any beaches close to Gwynn's Island Cottage - Waterfront with Private Beach + Sunsets over Water?
The closest beach to Gwynn's Island Cottage - Waterfront with Private Beach + Sunsets over Water is Yorktown Beach (34.3 km).
Does Gwynn's Island Cottage - Waterfront with Private Beach + Sunsets over Water have a pool?
No, this cottage doesn't have a pool.
Is Gwynn's Island Cottage - Waterfront with Private Beach + Sunsets over Water family-friendly?
You bet! With amenities such as laundry facilities and a charcoal grill, as well as children's dinnerware and children's books, it's no surprise that Gwynn's Island Cottage - Waterfront with Private Beach + Sunsets over Water is a winner with our family travellers.
Is there a free airport shuttle available at Gwynn's Island Cottage - Waterfront with Private Beach + Sunsets over Water?
No, Gwynn's Island Cottage - Waterfront with Private Beach + Sunsets over Water does not offer an airport shuttle service.
What time are check-in & check-out at Gwynn's Island Cottage - Waterfront with Private Beach + Sunsets over Water?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM. Check-out time is 11:00 AM.
Gwynn's Island Cottage - Waterfront with Private Beach + Sunsets over Water Reviews
Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 211 out of 219 reviews
10 - Excellent
211
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 219 reviews
8 - Good
6
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 219 reviews
6 - Okay
2
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 219 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 219 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
10/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Jeanne M., Floyd
17 Oct 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
The house was easy to find (since my husband spent his summers there as a kid) and we found everything clean and well-equipped. Appreciated the stash of spices, condiments and kitchen equipment since we did some cooking. Loved biking the island! Water was rough from a storm so no kayaking but the shed was full of water toys for nice days. We all enjoyed our stay very much!
Jeanne M.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Janis G.
15 Oct 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Our stay is always so good for us. Our dog loves the easy in and out and all amenities are well thought out. We love seeing the eagles, herons, and osprey. We don’t fish but lots were jumping around ight out front.
Janis G.
Stayed 11 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Haley C.
17 Sept 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
We absolutely love staying here—it’s become a tradition for us to return year after year. From the moment we arrive, Cheri always makes us feel so welcome and goes above and beyond to ensure everything is perfect for our stay. The house itself is beautiful, spotless, and so well taken care of—it truly feels like a home away from home. Every detail is thoughtfully provided, and it makes our trips so relaxing and enjoyable. Cheri is one of the kindest and most attentive hosts we’ve ever met, and it’s clear how much she cares about her guests. We couldn’t imagine staying anywhere else and are already looking forward to coming back next year!
Haley C.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Ji B., Alexandria, VA
8 Sept 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
We’ve stayed at the cottage at least 7 times, and without fail, our stay have been wonderful. Our dog loves the private beach and the outdoor shower comes in handy. The cottage offers a beautiful view of the sunset. The restaurants in the area (downtown Mathews) and Hole in the Wall (right on the island) are great and super dog friendly with outdoor seating. Last but not least, the cottage host is super responsive and prepared us well for every stay. I’m afraid saying this might mean it’ll be harder to book the cottage, but we can’t recommend a better place if you’re looking for a cozy and peaceful getaway in the area!
Ji B.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Tonya Z., Rutherfordton, US
1 Sept 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
We just returned home from the most perfect week at Gwynn's cottage! We had never been to the area but chose it mainly for the water views, access to fishing, kayaking, the private beach and wanted a relaxing week and we had that and more. Literally everything you need is here -comfy beds, all the linens and fully stocked kitchen. It's an older home but has so much charm, so many thoughtful touches including a cabinet full of books, movies and puzzles, a shed with bikes, kayaks, chairs, crab pot, floats, etc. When you're inside the cottage, all you see is water - it felt like we were on a houseboat from the living room, kitchen and bathroom. We spent our mornings drinking our coffee and having breakfast outside watching the osprey and bald eagle. We caught blue crab and a nice red drum for dinner and our dog had the best time digging on beach. Thank you Cheri for being the perfect host, taking time to answer all my questions and creating an amazing space for others to enjoy. Can't wait to return one day!!
Tonya Z.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Taylor P.
29 Aug 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
This was one of the best vacations we have ever had. The cottage itself was perfect, simple, clean and cozy. Cheri has everything you would ever need! The view of the bay and the private beach are amazing, especially with being able to bring our fur babys! They had an absolute blast swimming and so did the humans. We kayaked and tried paddle boarding for the first time which is something we would have never had the opportunity to do.The host was great! There was a little snag with our payment and she made sure to notify us and get the problem solved so quickly. She was responsive to any questions I had and even let us know about an event that was happening on the island. She even checked in when bad weather came to make sure we were okay and didn’t have any concerns. The island itself is a really cool place. During the week there’s not much to do which is perfect for relaxing. On the weekend the nearby town Mathews comes alive and has a lot of cute shops and a farmers market. The Hatchery also opens and is an adorable place on the water where the food is amazing and the vibes can’t be beat. I also can’t forget about the Hole in the Wall restaurant where the food, service and views were all great! Also, everyone we encountered on the island was extremely friendly! We truly had a great time and plan to go back next year!
Taylor P.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Edward S.
18 Aug 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Very relaxing vacation with beautiful view. Very clean and well stocked with everything needed.
Edward S.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Andrew F.
12 Aug 2025
Nice little spot with spectacular sunset views
We stayed at the house and enjoyed the private beach. We caught lots of crabs. We went to the hatchery, which is on Gwen‘s Island and got to learn about the oyster farming. We booked a charter with dead rise, charters captain Trey taught us all about the crabbing industry in the oyster industry the island Gwen’s Island Cottage is a nice little place. It was clean with the wonderful art on the walls. They had everything we needed to play in the water, kayaks, paddle boards, crab pot, crab nets. We were close to Busch Gardens in Claudia Williamsburg. We got to visit both of those. We drove down to Hampton to the airspace museum. We explored the Gwynn’s Island history museum( highly recommend), and Bethel Beach. Cheri, the property manager, was very responsive provided a huge amount of detail prior to the trip, and it was promptly answering all our questions during our trip. Our dogs enjoyed the trip. Our kids enjoyed the trip and we enjoyed the trip. We’re very thankful for the experience the opportunity.
Andrew F.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Stephanie G., Downingtown
8 Aug 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
We loved the cottage! The bay was so close that even when you were inside you felt like you were on the beach. The sunsets were AMAZING. The neighbors were very quiet, the beach was private and the cottage was clean- leading to a nice, relaxing trip full of kayaking, fishing, reading on the beach and floating on the bay. Mathews area is our favorite spot due to the close proximity to groceries, restaurants and day trips.
Stephanie G.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Tina W., Bradner, ohio
4 Aug 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect quiet getaway
From start to finish, Cheri made this an easy process. She is very helpful and responds quickly. What you see is what you get. The listing is 100% accurate. The cottage is quaint and cozy. Cheri is very organized and had everything we needed for our stay. We enjoyed catching crabs, fishing from the beach, kayaking and mastering the paddle board. We took a charter out on the Chesapeake bay to catch Spanish Mackerel. The neighbor to the left was outside once and was very friendly. Otherwise, we really didn't see many people. There are stores and quaint restaurants near by. I could not have been happier. If you are looking for a place to relax, this cottage is for you.
Tina W.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
sal g.
20 Jul 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
The cottage was clean, the discription was acurate,the attension to detail was outstanding.The rooms look like they were just renovated.The view from the deck was fantastic.The glasses, flatware and cookware looked new.Well worth the cost. There even was a binder with the history of the area and activity suggestions,We hated to leave.
sal g.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
William A.
17 Jun 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Second year
Just as pleased as the first year
William A.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveller
11 Jun 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Another fantastic week at the cottage. The weather cooperated and sunsets were spectacular. Thanks again Cheri for sharing this gem by the Chesapeake Bay!
Verified traveller
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Christen G.
2 Jun 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Quiet Beach Getaway
We had a great time staying here. The private beach was exactly what we needed to relax and have fun.
Christen G.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Stephanie P.
29 May 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Quaint stay
Gwynns Island is such a quaint getaway . Everyone is friendly and helpful. Peaceful and quiet, where you come together with nature. The cottage was perfect, well equipped and very inviting. We brought our fur babies and they loved it. It was very relaxing and enjoyable.
Stephanie P.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Kris K.
19 May 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing Views
Everything you need is here, crab pots-caught a few blue crabs. Went fishing, we caught skate, croaker and an eel. 3 Kayaks, beach chairs, SUP , well stockedgrill, etc.
Kris K.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Suzanne M., Chester Va
18 May 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Love it
I keep coming back!
Suzanne M.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Karen P.
14 May 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Want to give 12 stars but limited to 5 stars
The Gwynn Island Cottage hosted by Cheri is everything my friends and family wanted in a week by the beach. As “Golden Girls,” we were looking for rest, relaxation, food, wine and spirits, sharing, crabbing and fishing. Cheri has made sure that VRBO guests will be well informed where things are: every switch, cabinet and shelf was labeled -so easy navigation as if the home was yours. Cheri, the host, has not only been attentive to guests needs, but the decor and landscaping was meticulous and beach-y. The cottage was immaculate and well-stocked; however, the host mentions that not all toiletries are provided. But there is much provided in the kitchen and bathroom. We brought extra septic-safe toilet paoer, paper towels, Clorox wipes, etc. I would probably bring liquid hand soap, next time. We took advantage of the Weber Grill. We bought an extra small bag of original kingsford charcoal briquettes, but the was a bag there of Kingsford match-light. We didn’t use much, so the next guest will have both. I strongly suggest you read the cottage “Bible” book that Cheri put together to know the cottage rules, but also her tips and insights into the island history and resources. She has some spot on suggestions on activities and restaurants. Cheri appears conscientious and was responsive to our needs, so communication is one of her fortes. We all agree that Cheri and her cottage will delight! Enjoy!
Karen P.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Robert W.
15 Apr 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great views and location
3 night visit - location close to relative and convenient to Mathew’s Va and Williamsburg Va
Robert W.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Elizabeth S.
9 Apr 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely getaway
My daughter's and I had a wonderful stay at the cottage! It has everything you need andwithin 30/40 min drive from various little towns and beaches.
Elizabeth S.
Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Amy E.
16 Mar 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Girl Weekend Getaway
We had the perfect weekend here at the Waterfront Cottage! We’ll definitely return!
Amy E.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
William F.
2 Dec 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great stay!
This was just what we needed for our holiday trip. The water views were great, saw various water birds including geese and a heron that posed for us out back. The place was clean and had all of the amenities of home. We are considering making this a holiday tradition!
William F.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
John W.
1 Dec 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Weekend on the island
Nice very clean cottage on the bay! Accommodations were very clean and comfortable! We watched several families of geese stay the night and leave the next on their journey south!
Thank you
John W.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Haley C.
26 Nov 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Another amazing trip in the books at our favorite place
This is our dream place. Every single time we stay we never want to leave. It is like a 2nd home to us. The most wonderful vibes and views, you couldn’t ask for more. Cheri is an AMAZING host. She is the absolute best and makes sure we are all set for a fabulous stay every time!!! We can’t wait to come back!
Haley C.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
samuel k.
24 Nov 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Family Thanksgiving Guests
The cottage is extremely well appointed, very clean, comfortable and affords a great view of Hills Bay. Three adults and a toddler enjoyed their 3-night stay immensely. .