Bell Buoy: Coastal Gem with Stunning Ocean Views at Rockport’s Retreat!
Welcome to Bell Buoy, a charming cottage and stunning seaside located in the heart of Bearskin Neck. From the rooftop deck, you'll enjoy views of Rockport’s waterfront: Front Beach, Folly Cove, Motif 1, and Rockport Harbor. Watch the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean as first light illuminates Thatcher Island.
What a fabulous location! As you step out the front door, you are a 2 minute walk to the closest restaurants and shops – easy access to fishing spots & ice cream shops. All the delightful venues of Bearskin Neck are mere moments from your doorstep. Downtown Rockport is equally convenient. Just a stroll down Bear Skin Neck and you emerge in the heart of downtown Rockport.
Bell Buoy is a short stroll to Rockport’s downtown, the Shalin Liu Performance Center, the Art Galleries, Rockport Harbor, and Front Beach. All manner of treasures can be found in Rockport’s vibrant downtown. Take in a concert at Shalin Liu Performance Center – you’ll enjoy stunning views – the back wall of the concert hall is a full wall of glass overlooking Rockport harbor. Rockport famously attracts artists from around the globe to capture the unique lighting. So many art galleries celebrate the artist community and the beauty of Rockport.
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Sleeping Arrangements (Maximum Occupancy - 5)
Master Bedroom (Sleeping Capacity - 2)
- Queen bed
- 2 Bedside Tables with Lamps
- 3 Bureaus
- Armoire
- Closet
- Large Table with 2 Chairs – can be used as a desk
- Window AC
Guest Bedroom (Sleeping Capacity - 2)
- Full bed
- 2 Bedside Tables with Lamps
- 1 Bureau
- 1 Large Closet
- Window AC
Landing (Sleeping Capacity - 1)
- Twin Daybed
- Armoire
Bathroom Accommodations
- 1 full bath with shower/tub combination and grab bars for easier entry & exit
- 1 half Bath with Laundry: full size washer & dryer
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Bell Buoy Accommodation Highlights
As you enter through the front porch, you are welcomed by a spacious living room with nautical accents. Checkout the antique ship replicas, and ship instruments. At the center of the home, a floor to ceiling field stone fireplace connects the living room with the dining room. The dining room has a spacious table that comfortably seats 6 - 10 people. From the desk, one can gaze out the window and enjoy views of classic and colorful cottages. Through the dining room guests find a fully equipped kitchen with full sized appliances: dishwasher, new stainless-steel gas stove and new stainless-steel refrigerator.
As you ascend the stairs, guests will find a cozy reading nook on the over-sized landing. Stretch out on the day bed! The cottage has 2 bedrooms on this level – each at opposite ends of the home. In the center are the 2 bathrooms: 1 full bathroom with shower and tub combination, and 1 half bathroom with full sized laundry.
On the landing, you will find the access door to the Breakfast Deck on the second floor and stairs that lead to the huge roof deck. The Breakfast Deck has a table and comfortably seats 2. A delightful shady place to enjoy the sea breezes with your morning coffee or a great book. The Roof Deck easily accommodates all guests. Two tables and seating for you to dine Al Fresco with water views and lounge chairs to take in the sun and sea breezes.
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Amenities
- Roof deck with views of the ocean and downtown
- Breakfast deck with water views
- Decorative Fireplaces in both dining room and living room
- WiFi: High Speed & Private
- TV in living room
- Window AC units in living room, dining room, and both bedrooms.
- Full sized kitchen and laundry appliances
- Nautical accents
- Large living and dining room
- 2 work spaces: desk in dining room and large table in Master bedroom
- Sleeping accommodations for 5 people.
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Free Parking:
Advice: Please pull over on North Road to unload your car. Then proceed to one of the Free Parking options listed below.
Rockport offers many Free Parking Options:
The Lot off of Old Harbor Road is .1 mile from the cottage. Take North Street to the fork; turn right, and parking is at the end of this road. This parking becomes resident only during high season from May through October..
Free parking Lots at the Train Station and 2 Blue Lane Road on Rt 127. Free Shuttles will bring you back to downtown Rockport.
During the winter, meters and kiosk parking is free. All seasons, on-street parking outside of the meter and kiosk areas is free.
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Window AC Units
This property is cooled with window air conditioning units. The units are installed in May and removed in September. Each window AC unit has both a cooling function and a fan function. Each room with a window AC unit; also has a fan.
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About iTrip North Shore Properties
- Smoking is strictly prohibited. Guests will be fined and immediately evicted for smoking or vaping in the home or on the property.
- NO PARTIES, EVENTS, PERFORMING ARTISTS OR BANDS ALLOWED AT ANY TIME.
These are cause for eviction with no refund. If any damage impacts our ability to offer the home for future guests, you will be held liable.
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Amenities:
- Each of property features a starter set of supplies for guests which includes toilet paper, paper towels, dish detergent, & hand soap.
- The beds are fully made & ready for your arrival with freshly laundered linens. A set of towels for each registered guest are included in the rental rate.
- For family friendly homes, a luxury Pack-n-Play or other children's furnishings are available for an additional charge (as availability permits).
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Visiting like a local means being neighborly. Please be respectful of the owner's home and considerate of the neighbors.
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About Cape Ann: a peninsula and island that host Gloucester, Rockport, Magnolia, and Manchester By The Sea.
- Beaches: Singing, Wingaersheek, Long, Good Harbor, Magnolia and Kettle Cove.
- Nature Parks: Magnolia Woods, Ravenswood, and Rafes Chasm Park provide short walks to gorgeous rocky shoreline and sea views.
- Boating: Cape Ann Harbor Tours, Sailing on Schooner Ardelle, Deep Sea Fishing Charters, or Whale Watch Cruises. From Rockport harbor, catch a ferry to Thacher's Island - wildlife sanctuary with Twin Light Houses.
- Walking Tours for centuries of seafaring history showcasing Gloucester's fishing past.
- Artist Tours where you visit the artists in their studios. Rockport hosts many galleries.
- Foodies will love the diversity of Cape Ann's food scene - amazing seafood ... lobster, clams, scallops, quahogs, cod or swordfish.
- Golfing: a beautiful mix of manicured greens along rocky shores or seaside marshes.
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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
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Rockport
Located in Rockport, this holiday home is in the city centre and near the beach. Motif No 1 and Paper House are local landmarks, and some of the area's attractions include Schooner Adventure and Maritime Gloucester. Rocky Neck Art Colony and Essex Shipbuilding Museum are also worth visiting. Take the opportunity to explore the area for water adventures such as fishing.
Shalin Liu Performance Center - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
Front Beach - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
Back Beach - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
Cape Ann - 4 min drive - 2.9 km
Getting around
Rockport Station - 15 min walk
Beverly, MA (BVY-Beverly Municipal) - 27 min drive
Restaurants
Dunkin' - 6 min drive
Sea Breeze Liquors - 6 min drive
Common Crow Natural Market - 5 min drive
Talise - 13 min drive
Brothers Brew - 4 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Bell Buoy: Coastal Gem with Stunning Ocean Views at Rockport’s Retreat! pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Bell Buoy: Coastal Gem with Stunning Ocean Views at Rockport’s Retreat!?
As of 12 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Bell Buoy: Coastal Gem with Stunning Ocean Views at Rockport’s Retreat! on 18 August 2026 start from NZ$572, 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 Bell Buoy: Coastal Gem with Stunning Ocean Views at Rockport’s Retreat!?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Bell Buoy: Coastal Gem with Stunning Ocean Views at Rockport’s Retreat!?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Bell Buoy: Coastal Gem with Stunning Ocean Views at Rockport’s Retreat!?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Bell Buoy: Coastal Gem with Stunning Ocean Views at Rockport’s Retreat! located?
Located in the heart of Rockport, this holiday home is steps away from Bradley Wharf, Motif No 1 and T Wharf. Rockport Art Association & Museum and Shalin Liu Performance Center are also within 5 minutes. Rockport Station is 15 minutes by foot.
Reviews
9.4
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Thank you so much for your review, Karla! We are thrilled to hear that you had a great time at Bell Buoy. We hope to welcome you back for another delightful visit in the future!
Thank you so much for your wonderful review, Elizabeth! We are thrilled to hear that you loved the location of Bell Buoy and enjoyed the rooftop deck. We would love to welcome you back for another stay!
Great New England cottage by coast was an excellent view from the upper deck. Rustic and cozy with a small town feel. Will stay again.
Dustin C.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 8 September 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful review, Dustin! We are thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the excellent view from the upper deck at Bell Buoy and appreciated the rustic and cozy New England cottage feel. We look forward to welcoming you back for another delightful visit in the future!
What a cozy cabin at the beach! Bell Buoy was the perfect home away from home for our annual family vacation. The top deck has a great view of the water. It was great for watching the sunset and or sunrise each day. The house offers peace and quiet while also being so close to the shops on Bearskin Neck.
Mary N.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 August 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful review, Mary! We are thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your stay at Bell Buoy and found it to be the perfect home away from home for your annual family vacation. We are also delighted that you enjoyed the peace and quiet while being so close to the shops on Bearskin Neck. We would love to welcome you back for another delightful visit in the future!
Thank you so much for your wonderful review, Ian! We can't wait to welcome you back for another amazing stay!
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Rob N.
4 October 2025
So far very happy
Only one night in out of the three so far. Incredibly happy so far! Cute, very roomie home. Perfect location in town.
Rob N.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Celia D.
9 April 2025
Sea, sand & beach house
Beautiful & cozy home with everything We needed in perfect location.
Celia D.
Response from VrboOwner on 12 April 2025
Hi Celia. So glad you enjoyed Bell Buoy! It's a fantastic spot, perfect for a beautiful and cozy stay with everything you needed in a perfect location. We’re thrilled to hear it was exactly what you were looking for. We’d love to have you back anytime! Thank you for your kind words!
This is a wonderful little bungalow! We really enjoyed our stay. Apparently the original has is 130 yrs old and very charming. Remind me of my grandmothers house with so many antiques and overall feel. No overhead lights, just antique lamps. As far as cleanliness it was clean for a house of this age. The sea views were fantastic! Walk anywhere in the seaside village town!
Th house is super cute and charming. It was so clean and the host even left us a bottle of wine in the refrigerator. There is plenty of space with a cozy living room a big dining room and let’s not forget about the amazing rooftop deck with amazing ocean views! Thanks for hosting us. We had a great time!
Kristi S.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 12 May 2025
Hi Kristi. So glad you enjoyed Bell Buoy! It's a fantastic spot, perfect for a charming stay with its cozy living room, spacious dining area, and the amazing rooftop deck with ocean views. We’re thrilled to hear that you appreciated the cleanliness and the little touch of a bottle of wine. We’d love to have you back anytime! Thank you for choosing to stay with us!
The location of this property was perfect! The rooftop was a spectacular view! The house could use some updating. The half bathroom needed a sink to wash your hands. Parking is a problem if you can't walk the distance. Very steep stairs leading to the bedrooms and bathrooms.
We loved the location and the roof deck was amazing! Maybe be clear in listing about parking. It worked out for us fortunately we were able to meet ten property owner and the property manager and they were wonderful and accommodating. Would love to have some lighting on the roof deck which is the key attribute to the home.
Erin S.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 25 August 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful review, Erin! We are thrilled to hear that you loved the location and found the roof deck at Bell Buoy to be amazing. We would love to welcome you back for another delightful visit in the future!
This property is a quintessential Rockport/Bearskin Neck house.
Ian O.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 5 June 2024
Hi Ian,
We are so thrilled to hear how much you liked your stay at Bell Buoy, it is truly a gorgeous home perfect for a little summer getaway. Didn't you love the decks that soaked in all of that sun and sea air? We hope to host your stay again soon!
Hi Barb,
We are elated to hear how much you enjoyed your stay with us at Bell Buoy. Didn't you love the breathtaking ocean views? We love how great of a job our team does to ensure that all of our guests have comfortable and cozy experiences when staying at our properties!
We hope to see you again soon!
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
John W.
24 September 2024
Bell Buoy vacation
Wonderful location, steps from the coast as well as numerous restaurants and the relaxing vibe of the artists community. We will be back.
John W.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 25 September 2024
Hi John. We are so very happy that you enjoyed your stay at Bell Buoy. It's ideal to be so close to the fun! Marblehead is very historic and also a bit of an artist attraction. The coastline, the shopping, the eateries. It all spells fun and relaxation! Hope to host your next visit.
The cottage is exactly as shown. Neighbors are friendly. Village was so sweet and the views were fantastic! I'd love to come back in rhe wimmer the beach looked
Dulayna M.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 26 April 2025
Hi Dulayna. So glad you enjoyed Bell Buoy! It's a fantastic spot, perfect for a beautiful and cozy stay with everything you needed in a perfect location. We’re thrilled to hear that you found the neighbors friendly and enjoyed the sweet village and fantastic views. We’d love to have you back anytime, especially in the winter to experience the beach in a different season! Thank you for your kind words!
The property was everything they stated it woukd be. Very clean and inviting. The rooftop deck was an awesome place to view the sunrise and sunset. When an antique bed broke they brought a new bed by the end of the day. The y also left a surprise for us in the refrigerator. A nice treat!
Martha D.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 August 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful review, Martha! We are thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your stay at Bell Buoy and found the property to be clean and inviting. It's great to know that you appreciated the rooftop deck for viewing the sunrise and sunset. We're glad we could quickly resolve the issue with the antique bed and that you enjoyed the surprise treat in the refrigerator. We would love to welcome you back for another delightful visit in the future!
This is a roomy, comfy, adorable space that one of my kids called a "Grandma house." There were artifacts there belonging to the family that had lived there (photos, a lamp with a placard on it commemorating years of service, etc.)It was a quick walk to the beach with the kids (one of whom has limited mobility and tired quickly, and who did fine).The shops and things Rockport offers are all right there.The rooftop deck is nice, roomy, with a view of the ocean.There was a bottle of wine in the fridge when I got there.I would stay there again.
Rachel P.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 23 August 2025
Thank you so much for the lovely review! We're so glad you and your family felt comfortable and enjoyed the charm of the space — "Grandma house" is such a sweet way to describe it! It means a lot to hear that the location worked well for everyone, especially being close to the beach and shops. We're happy you got to enjoy the rooftop deck and the little welcome treat in the fridge. We'd love to have you back anytime! 😊
My husband, daughter, and I thoroughly enjoyed a relaxing long weekend at Bell Bouy. The location is super charming and the view from the rooftop deck is amazing. Being able to just walk around Bearskin Neck is delightful. Several restaurants and shops within minutes of the house. We didn't have trouble parking in April, but I would imagine it could be tricky in the summer. The house had everything we needed for a long weekend. We would love to return.
Dana W.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 27 April 2025
Hi Dana. So glad you enjoyed Bell Buoy! It's a fantastic spot, perfect for a relaxing stay with its charming location and amazing rooftop deck views. We’re thrilled to hear that you and your family had a delightful time exploring Bearskin Neck and found everything you needed for a long weekend. We’d love to have you back anytime, perhaps during the summer to experience the vibrant atmosphere! Thank you for your kind words and for choosing to stay with us!
Hi Kadie,
We are thrilled to know you enjoyed your stay at Bell Buoy, we just love how beautiful this entire home is and all that it has to offer. We truly hope to see you again soon!
I immediately felt as if I belonged here. Everything about this home was great, the decor, the beds, the rooftop deck could not be any more perfect.
The shops were literally around a corner.
I loved it so much I am already looking to return again.
Dena T.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 11 October 2024
Hello Dena. It is so wonderful when a guest loves Bell Buoy as much as we do. Happy you found everything to your liking and what a fun place to be. Please come back anytime!
Thanks to Liann and the owners of this property for sharing quite a gem. House seemed sprawling for an early 19th century Port residence and was full of nostalgic photos and art. Slight issue of what defines "parking on site", but we figured out a few options that cobbled together worked, including generosity of neighbor.
Bell buoy was a great place to stay for our family vacation. Walking distance to great restaurants, shopping, and beautiful views. But still a great location to have privacy. We watched fisherman check their lobster traps in the morning and enjoyed seeing what views the local artists were painting for the day. Ours boys enjoyed learning about a rotary phone and playing with the record player (great selection of records!). Thank you for sharing your home with us, we had a great time!
This beautiful beach cottage has so much family history in it. You step back into another time and you can really feel the love that was in that house for many years. I’m sure two fireplaces. Just a lovely home. You step back in time the third floor roof deck gives you a full view of the ocean just a wonderful place to stay. Everything was great.
Michael G.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023
Verified
8/10 Good
Scott W.
30 July 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location
Great but NO PARKING AT PLACE
Good location, clean but lacks updates such as outlets in the bathroom. Top deck was really nice. There is NO PARKING at the place although the listing says free parking - you have to find it own your own after hours OR after a long walk up the street. But checking/out was easy, overall rental was good.
Scott W.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
About the host
Hosted by Liann DiMare
Languages:
English, French, Italian, Spanish
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests