Waterfront Island Retreat on Round Island w/ dock

Summary:
Welcome to your own slice of paradise and history in the heart of the Thousand Islands! Nestled on Round Island, this charming waterfront cottage offers the ultimate escape, complete with private shoreline, stunning sunsets, and total tranquility, accommodating up to 10 guests.

The Space:
Accessible only by boat, this cottage is a serene step back in time, surrounded by nature and water. Spend your days playing pickleball, kayaking, swimming, or simply relaxing on the deck as ships pass through the St. Lawrence River channel.

Ready for an unforgettable Thousand Islands adventure? This unique hideaway is perfect for couples, families, and anyone craving peace, privacy, and panoramic river views.

This cherished waterfront cottage, built in the 1880s, is the perfect setting for multi-generational gatherings and unforgettable family getaways. With seven inviting bedrooms—including five queen beds and seven twin beds—there’s plenty of space for everyone to relax in comfort. The home features a cozy living area, a fully stocked kitchen, two full bathrooms, and two half baths, making it easy to accommodate large groups.

With its spacious living areas, outdoor deck, and private shoreline, it’s an ideal spot for grandparents, parents, and kids to share meals, play games, explore the island, and enjoy peaceful mornings by the water. Whether you're swapping stories around the table, fishing off the dock (please bring your own rods and tackle), or watching the sunset as a family, this home invites moments that become treasured traditions, year after year.

Spend your days playing pickleball on the private court, grilling dinner as the sun sets over the river, or rinsing off after a swim in the outdoor shower. The large covered porch is perfect for morning coffee or evening laughter, offering the kind of timeless charm that brings families together in a place they’ll want to return to again and again.

Guest Access:
Please note that the concrete docks are off-limits while under renovation. Instead, we invite you to use the available wooden dock, which is designed to accommodate deep hull boats up to 30 feet. For those with a 30-foot deep hull vessel, we recommend checking the current water depth online with the US Army Corps of Engineers to ensure safe docking.

The Neighborhood:
Round Island is known for its private residences and tranquil environment, offering a unique living experience amidst the natural beauty of the Thousand Islands.​ The area surrounding Round Island is rich with charm, culture, and natural beauty, making it the perfect extension of your island getaway. Located just minutes from the charming village of Clayton, you’ll have easy access to local shops, restaurants, and the famous Antique Boat Museum—if you ever feel like leaving the island. Clayton, settled in 1822, has a rich history as a shipbuilding and lumbering port. Today, it offers a delightful blend of cultural attractions and outdoor activities. Notable sites include the Antique Boat Museum, which houses North America's largest collection of freshwater recreational boats, and the Thousand Islands Museum, featuring exhibits on local history and culture.

The walkable downtown is lined with inviting cafes, galleries, and boutiques, and boaters can dock right in town to enjoy everything Clayton has to offer. Enjoy fresh fish restaurants and fine dining with linen table service, or take a short trip to nearby Sackets Harbor to savor Italian cuisine at Wise Guys. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the local wineries scattered throughout the region. For those looking to explore further, the Thousand Islands Bridge is just 15 minutes away by car, or about 45 minutes by boat. A scenic boat ride can also take you to Gananoque in Canada (passport required), offering another layer of adventure. All of this sits along the majestic St. Lawrence Seaway, which holds 25% of the world’s freshwater, adding even more awe to this extraordinary destination.

DINING (All within 1–2 miles by boat or car):
Wise Guys Italian – Classic Italian dishes served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere—great for a sit-down dinner with the whole family.
Bella’s – A local favorite for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with scenic river views. Perfect for a casual bite or sunset dining.
Wood Boat Brewery – Enjoy handcrafted pizzas and locally brewed beers in a laid-back, nautical-inspired setting.
Channelside Restaurant – Waterfront dining with indoor and outdoor seating, ideal for a relaxed meal by the river.
Koffee Kove – A cozy café known for its hearty breakfasts, comfort food, and friendly small-town atmosphere.

WINERIES
Coyote Moon Vineyards: Approximately 3 miles (10 minutes by car)
Thousand Islands Winery: Approximately 7 miles (15 minutes by car)
Northern Flow Vineyards: Approximately 2 miles (5 minutes by car)

BREWERIES
Wood Boat Brewery: Approximately 1.5 miles (5 minutes by car or boat)
Garland City Beer Works: Approximately 1.5 miles (5 minutes by car)

GROCERY STORES (All within 1–2 miles by boat or car):
Clayton Shurfine Supermarket – A full-service supermarket offering a wide selection of groceries, fresh produce, meats, and a deli. Conveniently located in downtown Clayton.
Hunner’s Market – A specialty grocery store focusing on local and organic products, including fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods.
Clayton Food Co-op – A community-focused store offering a selection of local and organic products, supporting sustainable agriculture and healthy living.​
North Country Express – A convenience store offering a variety of grocery items, snacks, and beverages.​

MEDICAL (If there is an emergency, please call 911)
Thousand Islands Emergency Rescue Service
Type: Emergency Medical Services
Address: 100 Union Street, Clayton, NY 13624

Samaritan Family Health Center
Type: Urgent Care
Address: 909 Strawberry Lane, Clayton, NY 13624

Getting Around:
Boating is a way of life in this area. The Island is only accessible by parking at a local marina and boating to the island. New York does require a boater's license from USBoats.

If you prefer not to drive a boat, please check out our favorite boat/water taxi service, RJ's Marine Associates, LTD. The captains are fully insured and ticketed. We recommend making arrangements ahead of time.

MARINA OPTIONS (all Marinas have fuel available):
Clayton Harbor Municipal Marina: In downtown Clayton, this marina features 49 floating slips, a 300-foot pier, electricity, water, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, restrooms, and showers. It's approximately 1 mile from Round Island. ​

Bayside Marina: 1061 State Street in Clayton, Bayside Marina offers seasonal and transient dockage, power boat rentals, kayak, paddleboard, and canoe rentals, as well as boat repairs and storage. It's about 1.5 miles from Round Island. ​

Spicer Marine Basin: 40616 Marina Road in Clayton, this full-service marina has 125 slips, including 19 covered slips accommodating boats up to 35 feet. It's approximately 2 miles from Round Island. ​

French Bay Marina: Situated at 530 Theresa Street in Clayton, French Bay Marina provides dockage and is roughly 1.2 miles from Round Island.​

Pier 225 Marina: Located at 835 Reed Street in Clayton, Pier 225 Marina offers docking facilities and is about 1.3 miles from Round Island.

Interaction with Guests:
We're delighted to have you as our guest and are committed to making your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you have questions, concerns, or need assistance, please feel free to contact us via phone call, your preferred booking application, or email. We're here to assist you with our home!

Important: We are committed to protecting our properties and staying compliant with short-term rental regulations. As part of our protection plan, included in your booking price, you will be required to complete an independent third-party verification through Truvi. Before your booking begins, you will be contacted via email and/or text to confirm your details and complete the verification process.

To ensure a smooth check-in experience, you'll also be asked to review and sign the house rules and FCM Homes terms & conditions via the Guest App Link sent in your reservation confirmation. Please make sure to complete both steps at least 24 hours before your arrival to receive your arrival instructions. Thank you!

This historic home dates back to the 1880s and maintains much of its original charm, including, typical of a late nineteenth century home, natural cooling by cross-ventilation when the windows are opened . While it does not have central air conditioning or heating, the summer weather in upstate New York is typically mild and comfortable, and you may find yourself needing a blanket in the evenings. For your convenience, we provide fans in each room and blankets to ensure a cozy stay during those cooler evenings.

Boating is a way of life in this area. The Island is only accessible by parking at a local marina and boating to the island. New York does require a boater's license from USBoats. Please take a look at the listed options in the "Getting around" section for more details.

Please note: We need all guest information to be up-to-date for safety purposes and on file 24 hours before your arrival. The Island does not have any city services available.

Please review our Rental Agreement for the House Rules and Terms and Conditions.