Rocky Neck Hideaway By Gloucester Harbor & Wonson Cove
Escape to the charm of old Gloucester at this cozy and private townhouse retreat on historic Rocky Neck, just steps from Gloucester Harbor. Enjoy partial harbor views, sea breezes, a sunny outdoor deck, and easy walking access to beaches, galleries, restaurants, theater, and live music. This authentic coastal getaway offers a king bed, strong WiFi, private parking, and nearby access to scenic Wonson Cove for kayaking and paddleboarding.
The Space
This two-story townhouse combines historic New England charm with comfort and privacy. The living room, sun deck, and upstairs bedroom all offer partial water views and refreshing sea breezes from Gloucester Harbor.
Enjoy: • Private sun deck with outdoor dining table and seating best suited for 2–3 guests (can accommodate 4 closely) • Gravel terrace with landscaping • Four-burner gas grill • Quiet and peaceful setting near the water
Inside, the home features: • Open living and dining area • Updated kitchen with quartz and maple countertops, Keurig, and modern appliances • Upstairs bedroom with king bed • High-quality linens, blackout shades, and bath linens • Samsung Smart TV with streaming access for your favorite services • Strong WiFi • Beach chairs • Central AC and ceiling fan
The upstairs bedroom and bathroom are accessed by a narrow spiral staircase. The staircase is part of the home’s historic character, but it may not be suitable for guests with mobility limitations, difficulty using stairs, or large/heavy luggage. To make arrivals easier, we provide a basket at the base of the stairs for transporting smaller items upstairs.
Please also note: • The upstairs bathroom includes a shower/tub combination • As with many older seaside homes, some floors have a natural slant and unevenness that reflect the building’s historic character • This is a charming and comfortable coastal home rather than a modern luxury property
The home is best suited for one or two guests, though it can accommodate up to four. Please note that the upstairs bathroom is accessed through the bedroom area, making the layout most comfortable for couples, solo travelers, or close friends.
Neighborhood Highlights • A short walk to a small swimmable beach • Small public launch area approximately 130 feet from the house for SUPs, kayaks, and canoes • Easy access to scenic Wonson Cove, a peaceful and fun part of Gloucester Harbor
Wonson Cove is tidal, creating a unique coastal experience. At low tide you can walk out onto the flats, while mid-to-high tide is ideal for launching kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards.
• Walkable restaurants, galleries, and live music on Rocky Neck • Nearby theater company and cultural events throughout Gloucester and Cape Ann
Gloucester and nearby Rockport offer whale watches, sailing excursions, beaches, hiking, art galleries, live music, and coastal New England charm throughout the summer season. Guests can explore Bearskin Neck, Halibut Point State Park, the Shalin Liu Performance Center, and seasonal events including Saint Peter’s Fiesta and the Gloucester Schooner Festival.
Parking • One private off-street parking space included • Shared parking area with the neighboring townhouse • Due to the narrow layout of this historic waterfront neighborhood, additional parking is not available directly on the street near the property • Additional vehicles may park nearby on adjacent streets or in the free municipal parking lot approximately a 4-minute walk away
Laundry • The basement and laundry area are not part of the standard rental space • Laundry access may be available for guests staying one week or longer upon request • A nearby laundromat is located approximately ½ mile away (about a 3-minute drive)
Availability • Two-night minimum Sunday–Thursday • Four-night minimum for stays including Friday or Saturday nights • Available June through October • Reduced weekly rates available for stays over 7 days
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
You can leave your bed unmade and throw used towels on the bathroom floor, so cleaners can see what's been used.
If you use the sofa bed, please return it to sofa position after stripping the sheets off it (leave the mattress protector, please). You don't have to put the cover back on if it's difficult.
Please be sure all doors and windows are closed and AC is turned off, if you can. Put the key in lock box and scramble the #s. Thank you! Have a safe trip home!
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Please do not strip the linens off the bed and or couch if you used it. No need to make the bed:) No food or drinks upstairs, please.
At checkout, lock patio door and only lock the doorknob at entrance door ( not the bolt). Leave the key in the lock box. $30 fee for missing keys.
The door to the basement by the spiral staircase is a private area and should only be accessed on instructions from us.
Important information
You need to know
Property Registration Number C0243251070
Property # 181237vb
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 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
About the area
Gloucester
Located on the waterfront, this holiday home is in Rocky Neck, a neighbourhood in Gloucester. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Good Harbor Beach and Wingaersheek Beach. Rocky Neck Art Colony and Maritime Gloucester are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and snorkelling nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and rock climbing.
Beverly, MA (BVY-Beverly Municipal) - 29 min drive
Restaurants
Dunkin' - 5 min drive
The Cut - 5 min drive
Source Bakery - 5 min drive
Lone Gull Coffee House - 5 min drive
Minglewood Tavern - 5 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Rocky Neck Hideaway By Gloucester Harbor & Wonson Cove pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Rocky Neck Hideaway By Gloucester Harbor & Wonson Cove?
As of 16 June 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Rocky Neck Hideaway By Gloucester Harbor & Wonson Cove on 21 September 2026 start from NZ$431, 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 Rocky Neck Hideaway By Gloucester Harbor & Wonson Cove?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Rocky Neck Hideaway By Gloucester Harbor & Wonson Cove?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Rocky Neck Hideaway By Gloucester Harbor & Wonson Cove?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Rocky Neck Hideaway By Gloucester Harbor & Wonson Cove located?
Located in Rocky Neck, this holiday home is within a 15-minute walk of Rocky Neck Art Colony and Niles Beach. Massachusetts Bay and Good Harbor Beach are also within 2 miles (3 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Functional small space, cozy and met our needs easily with walking to art and restaurants. We were lucky to meet several locals and really enjoyed our stay. Neighborhood walk and exploring beach area is recommended.
Had the best family vacation at the Rocky Neck Hideaway, from the location, to the host, to the amenities, everything was excellent. The whole stay exceeded our expections and we will be back!
Heather B.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 26 August 2024
Rocky Neck is an amazing location. We're so glad you enjoyed it and our place as well! We aim to please and are happy to know you'll be back! Thank you.
Great little place tucked away and quite. We had our morning coffee on the deck then walked down to collect sea glass.Great spot, not too far from downtown either for dinners etc. We would come back again!
It was a breeze,no hassle,Elizabeth is a exceptional host,sweet and knowledge about Rocky Neck,absolutely wonderful, a gem of a place to go
PENNY K.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 4 April 2020
Thank you and I'm so pleased you had a good time! I'm happy to help and love it when people take good advantage of their vacation time here on beautiful Cape Ann, as you did!
The bed upstairs is so confortable, I slept like a baby!
Great location! You can swim nearby, it’s very quiet and in the Rocky Neck art colony district.
Gwen G.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 10 October 2024
We're so pleased you slept well We try to have beds that are very comfortable (I'm a PT and know the importance of that)! We have now provided sound machines as well, for those who like a back ground sound or in the unlikely event that someone else is up and making noise in the neighborhood before you're ready to be awake, in the AM or PM. Although yes it's usually quiet in the neighborhood.
The end of Freemont St. is one of my favorite places to go for a quick dip. Glad you had a good time and thanks for your comments!
Pleasant 6 night stay with everything we needed at the cottage. Pleasant weather and great restaurants. Zeke's for breakfast, Seaport Grill for lobster ravioli,Tonno's for pasta, 1606 for lobster bisque! Book a whale watching trip!
Cute little apartment!! Very clean and great location! Love the area! Great for local travel. Good Harbor Beach is beautiful. If you’re in the area grab dinner at Passports and take a sunset cruise through Cape Ann Cruises.
Jessica D.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Dr. Westy
25 August 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
A little hideaway that seems just right for America's oldest art colony and fishing community. The little spiral stairway gives it character (though not for all) getting to the lovely bedroom.
Such a lovely area and the views are just incredible…The cottage was warm and cozy very clean and very quiet definitely enjoyed my stay here and do recommend. :)
Mel M.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 10 October 2024
We're so glad you enjoyed the views as much as we do! It is a special area! Happy you found the cottage to your liking! Thank you!
Host was very welcoming and accommodating. Location was excellent...close enough to everything, yet quiet and relaxing. Apartment had everything I needed and was super comfortable. Would definitely come back!
Sandra B.
Stayed 29 nights in May 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 4 April 2020
Thanks so much, Sandra! I'm so glad it worked well for you! It was a pleasure having you stay here!
Quite the cute, lil quaint apartment! It fit my and my husband's needs perfectly! The spiral staircase was unique (and a tight fit, so be sure to read property details in full). Its a nice walk all over Rocky Neck. Loved the area, as well as Rockport and Salem... we would love to come back!! We never spoke to the hosts as we didnt have any issues. Thank you Elizabeth & Tom!
Shawna W.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 18 November 2025
Thank you and I'm so glad it worked well for both of you! Thanks for mentioning that it's good to read about the staircase, so there are no "surprises" with it's size! Hope you can make it for a future visit here!
I felt very safe and had good communication with the owner. The neighborhood was pretty and great for walking. There is plenty to do in abs around the area. There was everything I needed in the space and it was very clean and cute.
Mary R.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 29 November 2023
Glad to know all of this, Mary, thank you.. There really is a lot to do in the area. We try to make the townhouse/cottage as comfortable, attractive and useful as possible.
We enjoyed our stay in the apartment. It was clean, comfortable, and the check in process was easy. There is an information book with tips, where to find things, etc. and a guest book for recommendations from prior guests on things to see and places to eat. The location was perfect for us to travel out on day trips to Boston, Newburyport, or just wandering around Gloucester.
Tracy B.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 29 November 2023
Thanks Tracy. The guest book for tips has been fun for me to peek at, to see what new places folks have discovered and are enjoying!
Glad you enjoyed your stay and took advantage of many of the fun experiences that Gloucester and this location can offer!
This property was in a quiet peaceful part of Gloucester. It was easy to get around to restaurants and shops and to nearby beaches as well. The property was well taken care of and set up. I also deeply appreciated how clean the property was, this rental was exceptionally clean compared to most rentals. We throughly enjoyed our short stay here, and would definitely visit again!
Anna G.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 28 August 2024
Thank you!
Our aim is to have the place super clean so you can just relax while you're on vacation!
We have had the same cleaners for the past year and are pleased as well with their cleaning and their responsiveness to our requests.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Susan
14 October 2020
Exceeded Expectations
The place is cute and compact, with a well appointed kitchen and was convenient to everything we needed. We especially enjoyed getting to know Elizabeth. She is a lovely person who takes a sincere interest in the comfort and enjoyment of her guests.
The place is cute and compact, with a well appointed kitchen and was convenient to everything we needed. We especially enjoyed getting to know Elizabeth. She is a lovely person who takes a sincere interest in the comfort and enjoyment of her guests.
Susan
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 14 October 2020
Thank you Susan! I always enjoy having good cook ssuch as you, inhabit the place, as you can appreciate the kitchen along with the rest of it! Now you know you don't have to bring extra utensils, when you come back (hopefully), next time!
Spent 4 days around the area . Tonno fine restaurant. Cape Ann Whale Watch well worth it!!!
Strolling through Rockport and Gloucester, beautiful
homes and gardens quaint shops in Rockport. Lobster ? Blue Collar lobster laid back vibe .
Craig S.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
About the host
Hosted by Elizabeth Lewis
I’m a longtime Cape Ann resident and former Rocky Neck homeowner who loves sharing the beauty and unique character of Gloucester Harbor with visitors. I lived in this house for 31 years, during which time the rear townhouse apartment was always operated as a vacation rental. Later, after moving nearby to Ipswich with my husband Tom, we converted the front townhouse into a vacation rental as well.
Rocky Neck has always been a very special place to me, with its harbor views, sea breezes, art galleries, beaches, music, and creative coastal atmosphere. We still spend time there regularly and enjoy helping guests discover everything that makes Cape Ann such a memorable destination.
We appreciate the thoughtful details that help make a stay relaxing and comfortable, and we’re always happy to answer questions or offer local recommendations. We hope you enjoy your stay!
Why they chose this property
I chose this property because Rocky Neck is one of the most beautiful and unique waterfront neighborhoods on Cape Ann. Surrounded by Gloucester Harbor, it offers a rare combination of coastal scenery, artistic culture, walkability, and peaceful seaside charm.
What makes this property unique
This property offers a relaxing coastal atmosphere just steps from the water, with nearby harbor views, sea breezes, beaches, galleries, restaurants, and live music all within walking distance.
Rocky Neck is one of America’s oldest working art colonies, known for its beautiful natural light, artistic character, and scenic waterfront setting. Nearly every street offers glimpses of Gloucester Harbor, creating a peaceful and inspiring environment from sunrise through evening.
Guests can enjoy nearby beaches, kayaking and paddleboarding on Wonson Cove, harbor walks, local theater, whale watches, sailing excursions, and the many cultural attractions throughout Gloucester and Cape Ann.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests