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Rock Haven Cottage, on the ocean!

Waterfront cottage with kitchen and patio

Photo gallery for Rock Haven Cottage, on the ocean!

Welcome to Rock Haven Cottage!
The front porch is a great spot for your morning coffee or evening drink!
The front yard is ideal for sunbathing or playing washer toss!
The side yard offers lots of space to play too!
The concrete pad is the future home of the wood fired hot tub! Arriving soon!

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 645.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Air conditioning
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

View map
  • Place, Peggy's Point Lighthouse
  • Place, Dalhousie University
  • Place, Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk
  • Airport, Halifax, NS (YHZ-Stanfield Intl.)

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Guest Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Guest Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Living room king size sofa bed

1 Double Futon

1 bathroom

Cottage Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Outdoor play area
Garden

About this property

Rock Haven Cottage, on the ocean!

Rock Haven Cottage faces the Atlantic Ocean near the entrance to McGraths Cove boasting it’s own private wharf & floating dock to swim & kayak from.

Like to stay on land? No problem! We have 2 double hammocks overlooking the ocean along with comfortable patio furniture, a picnic table, lawn games & 2 sun loungers great for an oceanside nap. Rock Haven Cottage also has a 24 x 8 covered deck that’s great for taking in a beautiful sunrise or enjoying your favourite drink! Just imagine - looking over the Atlantic Ocean and granite coastline on your private deck while sipping your morning coffee - trust us, it’s as relaxing as it sounds.

The cottage is fully equipped for long-term stays with a fully functioning kitchen. You’ll find a 2 burner propane cooktop, large retro style fridge & freezer, toaster oven, Keurig, and all cooking utensils, pots, pans, and accessories you could ever need during your vacation by the sea. Like to cook outside? We have a brand new BBQ with a side burner. For ease of use, the BBQ is fed propane directly from the cottage’s propane tanks, also ensuring that you’ll never run out while your grilling out!

Rock Haven Cottage has a full bathroom with a spacious walk-in glass shower and large vanity. Enjoy a relaxing night's sleep in either of the 2 queen beds which are found in either bedroom or if you are a party of 5-6 the sofa in the living room can be converted into an expansive king bed.

For your enjoyment we have an 11-foot Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) and 2 kayaks available for your use. Relax and take in the sunshine oceanside in the comfortable loungers on the private wharf deck, a great spot to read a book or have a drink!

Notes:

*at low tide the water is quite shallow, we highly recommend that you never dive off the floating dock at low tide. Adult Life Jackets are available.

*Our family worked very hard to build and design this cottage, we kindly ask that you respect the cottage, property, and its contents so we can keep the cottage in a very clean & functioning order. Please leave all of the cottage’s interior contents inside, do not put cottage items in the ocean. We also ask guests to keep the cottage as clean as possible during their stay. Thank you!

Province of Nova Scotia Tourist Accommodations Registry 2025-2026 # STR-2526A6138

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Amenities

Kitchen
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
Always monitor children near the rocks/water
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Respect cottage boundaries, shared driveway for entry & exit by vehicle only, rest of the property is private. 10km/h max until on McGraths Cove Rd.
No smoking, vaping or other similar type of products inside the cottage, no exceptions. Smoking outside is fine, please clean up your butts/filters.
Please keep the cottage as clean as possible, please no excessive messes.

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
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
Property Registration Number STR2425A6138

About the area

McGraths Cove

Located in McGraths Cove, this cottage is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Goodwood Family Golf Centre and Indian Lake Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore West Dover Provincial Park and Dr. Bill Freedman Nature Reserve. Take the opportunity to explore the area for water adventures such as swimming.
Map
McGraths Cove, NS

What's nearby

  • Peggy's Point Lighthouse - 15 min drive - 12.5 km
  • Chocolate Lake Beach - 43 min drive - 37.9 km
  • Dalhousie University - 47 min drive - 41.1 km
  • Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk - 47 min drive - 42.6 km
  • Halifax Citadel - 47 min drive - 42.6 km

Getting around

  • Halifax Station - 42 min drive
  • Halifax, NS (YHZ-Stanfield Intl.) - 56 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Sou'Wester Gift & Restaurant - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪The Finer Diner - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Shaw's Landing - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Rhubarb - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Margaret’s Cafe - ‬12 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Rock Haven Cottage, on the ocean! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Rock Haven Cottage, on the ocean!?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Rock Haven Cottage, on the ocean!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Rock Haven Cottage, on the ocean! located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is within 9 miles (15 km) of West Dover Provincial Park, William E. deGarthe Memorial Monument and DeGarthe Gallery. Peggy's Point Lighthouse and Saint Margarets Bay are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

10/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.0/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 92 out of 95 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 95 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 95 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 95 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 95 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Rick L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our favorite VRBO! Simply perfect! Beautiful views, private, charming decor, pristine and everything you hope for and more! Plan to return.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brian G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fabulous getaway package...all you need and then some!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Naomi K.

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

Peaceful

Stayed for three nights and the cottage was everything they promised. It was incredibly peaceful and the proximity to the water was wonderful. Can’t wait to come back!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kathy W.

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

Beautiful vistas

Exactly as described and better. Very well equipped. Lots to see and do in the area. Excellent communication with host. Enjoyed our stay
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Craig B.

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

Near Peggy's Cove

Clean, quiet, picturesque little retreat. Fabulous view of the cove. Just minutes from Peggy's Cove. The double hammocks, front porch, fire pit, dock all make this a great place to stay.. Shower water is temperamental but overall I recommend this place to any couple looking for a relaxing stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Wendy W.

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

Stay in Oct

Absolutely wonderful spot
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brenda N.

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

Perfect

Excellent
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie D.

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

An Idyllic Setting

Wow was the word that came to mind again and again as we arrived at the cottage … stunning inside and out! The cove is truly beautiful and the cottage is the perfect peaceful getaway.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Susan C.

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

Three night stay.

Gorgeous view but there is no place to walk.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Allen S., Sodus NY

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

Loved Rock Haven!

My wife and I had a wonderful stay at the Rock Haven cottage! Unbelievable views of Gods precious creations. In this protected, quiet cove, we did enjoy the ocean and wildlife in a serene setting. The cottage is very clean and cozy and all we wanted or needed. We would go back in a heartbeat!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Peter and Robin K., gilford,nh.

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

Oceanside cove

Love at first sight. The cottage is set up perfectly, all needs have been thought of. The location, close to Peggys Cove was perfect for our needs. Peaceful mornings overlooking the cove and evenings at the firepit watching the stars could not have been more perfect. We will definately place this on our list of places to return to.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

James F.

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

Beautiful property!

Thank you for sharing your spectacular property with us. Rock Haven cottage is located on a beautiful bay where you feel like you are the only person for miles. The cottage is extremely comfortable and very tastefully done. We watched the osprey work on their nests, listened to the birds sing & watched a few boats come and go from the beautiful porch. A fire in the fire pit was a nice way to end the day. Highly recommend this cottage.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

angela b.

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

Little Piece of Heaven

We loved our week at this beautiful cottage. Cottage was small but very cozy and had everything we needed. The view was amazing. I loved the piece and quite of no TV but my husband would have preferred a TV. If you want tranquility, this is your place. Worst part of the whole trip has nothing to do with the cottage but the route to and from the cottage. Roads a terribly curvy. If you get motion sick, take plenty of dramamine.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

8/10 Good

Stephanie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Beautiful Views

The views at this cottage were absolutely amazing. Once you go around to the front it feels totally private. I have not stayed anywhere before that was so blissfully quiet. The decor was very nice, just like the photos. We had beautiful sunny days for November and I spent a lot of time on the porch. The outdoor lighting is very pretty. The kitchen is quite small per the pics so there isn't much space for your food. The fridge is cute though slightly smaller than the average size. We had to use the window sill and table for dry goods. The bedrooms were nice. Rather than dressers there are drawers in the bed frame and some hooks/hangers on the wall. The nightstands are small shelves but were still just big enough thay I could fit my cpap on without having to remove the lamp. We found the beds were too firm for our tastes. We were quite sore. It's just personal preference but if are coming and like a softer sleep, bring some padding. I was annoyed that when we booked the hot tub was still listed. It did get removed sometime between our booking and when we arrived. Reading reviews from different sites it would appear that this was an issue for prior guests and definitely should have been communicated. The bathroom was very nice looking. The shower is really nice until you realize you can't turn it on/adjust the temperature without getting wet. The water pressure in the shower was not great either. This leads me to the biggest and only negative about this stay, the water. When you arrive the welcome binder tells you the water comes from a rain fed cistern. It asks that you conserve water by not flushing the toilet every time unless absolutely necessary and taking short showers. Um, what? That is kind of a big deal. Not everyone is comfortable with that not to mention those with medical conditions that would make this difficult. The whole purpose of the trip was to relax for our anniversary, not to worry about running out of water if the toilet is flushed too often. That is enough for us not to go back and if we had known in advance we very likely would not have booked in the first place. Definitely not a deal breaker for many people but guests should have the option of deciding for themselves. If this is something you can live with then book it, the views and the quiet are well worth it.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

David and Anne Marie L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cottage was very clean, cozy, and well-stocked. Matt was very considerate and helpful. The view from the front window and porch was amazing!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sabrina P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was amazing all around peace on earth this place
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jacqueline M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
My stay at Rock Haven exceeded my expectations on all fronts. The surrounding scenery was so beautiful and peaceful, the cottage so, so cute and well appointed. For anyone looking to eacape to a private, coastal retreat in NS this is your destination!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Darcy R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
11 out of 10!What a beautiful property. So quiet and peaceful and the scenery is to die for.Very well equipped and clean. A Nova Scotia treasure.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dennis G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent...no more words.Best Place to stay in whole Peggys Cove.Thanks Matthew and family
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Réjean G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Superbe endroit tranquille. On a pue voir balbuzard, canard et phoque de nôtre patio. Très propre.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

susan m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
this was our 2nd year to stay at rock haven and probably not our last. the cottage supplied every thing we needed and the location , dock, kayaks and locals provided great entertainment for our stay
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Pete A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We spent three nights at Rock haven and were very pleased with the property. sitting out on the porch with a view of the bay was very peaceful. The cottage was very clean and well equipped. We were a little surprised to see no tv....but who needs it there. The area is convenient for Peggy's cove and the owners suggestion of the drive down old hwy 3 to Lunenburg was fantastic. My only complaint would be .... and I understand why... (the cottage is at the rear of the owners property at the bay, and the driveway passes by the side of the owners private home.) They ask you to stay on the cottage property and ask that there be no foot traffic down the laneway, so we were not really able to go for a walk to the street from the cottage. But otherwise everything is great and is as described.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Shelley N.

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

Peace and paradise!!

Very sweet cottage, totally cut off from the world. A little private oasis! Kayaked, swam off the dock, watched the birds and seals in the bay. 100/10 would come back again and again!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lori G.

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

Perfect vacation cottage

We had a great stay at your quaint cottage on the water. Every detail was perfect. It was in a perfect spot to explore the area or stay and enjoy the cottage and water. You were always available if needed and responded very quickly to any questions. Would love to come back. Thank you!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Leonard R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect spot to relax and enjoy the views
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

About the host

Hosted by matthew duffy

Host profile image
Hi! My family and I rent out this custom-built cottage we built ourselves. We began construction in June 2020 and completed the property in June 2021. We wanted to open up our experience of living along the Atlantic Ocean to those wishing to visit. Rock Haven provides a unique opportunity to take in all that is coastal living in Nova Scotia. Enjoy the simple pleasures and sounds of the ocean in this private seaside escape! We hope you enjoy your stay!

Why they chose this property

Living along the Atlantic is an experience not all get, we wanted to offer this cottage for those wishing to explore Nova Scotia and our coastline.

What makes this property unique

- private oceanfront cottage!
- private wharf & floating dock!
- wood fired hot tub for 6!
- 21x8 covered deck with patio furniture and BBQ!
-private & secluded. Great sun exposure!
- 2 double hammocks, one near the ocean and one shaded!
- Air conditioning!
- fire pit area

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests