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Private Island Sanctuary in the Maritime Forest, Stunning Views & Modern Architecture

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Property grounds
5 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets
Interior
Property grounds
Interior

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

5 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View map
Bald Head Island, NC
  • Place, Bay Beach
    ‪19 min walk‬
  • Place, Bald Head Island Conservancy
    ‪31 min walk‬

Room options

Similar properties

TV
Nestled beside Bald Head
Bald Head Island
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Air-conditioning
Nestled beside Bald Head

About the area

Bald Head Island

With a stay at this vacation home in Bald Head Island (Middle Island Plantation), you'll be within a short 1-minute drive from Caswell Beach. .This family-friendly vacation home is 19.7 mi (31.6 km) from Carolina Beach.
View more Holiday homes in Bald Head IslandOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Bay Beach - 19 min walk - 1.7 km

Getting around

  • Wilmington Intl. Airport (ILM) - 48 min drive

Restaurants

  • Locals Family Diner
  • Fishy Fishy Cafe
  • Silver Coast Winery Tasting Room
  • Loco Jo's Grill
  • Southport Tap And Cellar

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Private Island Sanctuary in the Maritime Forest, Stunning Views & Modern Architecture

BEST FEATURES!

Private home
Great nature views!
3 golf carts!
Screened in porch and deck space in main living area
A Saltmarsh Retreat sits on nearly two acres of maritime forest on Middle Island's Dogwood Ridge — surrounded entirely by undeveloped land, conservation preserves, and the tidal waters of Cape Creek and Bald Head Creek. Live oaks and palmettos reach down to the creek's edge, and the only sounds are wind through the marsh grass and water lapping at the shore. This is Bald Head Island at its most wild and unspoiled.
The home was designed to place you inside this landscape. The top floor opens into a soaring great room with 360-degree views over the salt marsh and tree canopy. At the heart of it is a fully equipped chef's kitchen — an exceptional place to cook, where you're chopping vegetables and pouring wine while the marsh stretches out before you and the light shifts over the water. Meals flow naturally from the kitchen out onto the adjoining deck, with unobstructed views toward the marsh. After dinner, this is the perfect place to relax under the stars.
Inside, pine paneling and flooring, vaulted ceilings, and thoughtful architectural details give the home a warm, handcrafted character. A screened sleeping porch, outdoor shower, and private soaking tub bring the outside in at every turn.
Saltmarsh Retreat sleeps 12 across five sleeping spaces — four spacious rooms on the second floor and a bunk room on the ground level — with 2 full baths and 2 half baths throughout. Three golf carts are yours to explore: East Beach and miles of pristine shoreline are just a five-minute ride down Cape Creek Road, with a market and shops equally within easy reach.
For those seeking an escape that's genuinely away from it all — immersed in nature and beautifully appointed — A Saltmarsh Retreat is it.

**We cannot guarantee ice makers or water dispensers to be operable in the rental
Tram Reservation Address: 28 Dogwood Ridge


Turn Date in PEAK SUMMER SEASON: SUNDAY

Club Option for separate purchase: NO MEMEBRSHIP OPTIONS AVAILABLE

**Club memberships are different for every house and depends on dates. For club rates please contact the clubs directly or go on their websites. We do not control club rates or availability

Pets: No

Golf Cart: (2) 4 pass golf carts, (1) 2 pass golf cart

Coffee Maker: Regular Coffee Pot

Grill Type: Gas

Bikes: NONE ** We DO NOT guarantee bikes, beach towels, beach umbrellas or beach gear

Crockpot: No

Highchair or Booster and Pack and Play will be provided with this home

Beach Chairs: 4

WIFI: Spectrum highspeed internet (Password information will be located on fridge)


Interested in Rentals?
**Riverside Adventure Company provides bikes, beach chairs, kayaks, & beach umbrellas for rentals (910.457.4944) http://www.riversideadventure.com
**Coastal Urge provides bikes, SUP paddle boards, Skateboards, body boards, and surf boards rentals (1800.383.4443) https://coastalurge.com
**Cary Cart Company provides golf cart rentals (910.457.7333) https://www.carycartco.com/bald-head-island-rentals/


**Linens and bath towels are included in rental

**Elevator not available for use due to new law
Make yourself comfortable in this air-conditioned vacation home, featuring a kitchen with a refrigerator and an oven. There's a private balcony. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected. Conveniences include a microwave and a coffee/tea maker.
Make use of convenient amenities, which include an arcade/game room and barbecue grills.
Featured amenities include laundry facilities and a water dispenser.

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Hob
  • Ice maker
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster
  • Water dispenser

Bedrooms

  • 5 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 3 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Living room

Entertainment

  • TV

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • In-room accessibility
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near the marina

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Kayak
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Wildlife walks 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)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Water dispenser

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Contactless check-in available

Minimum check-in age: 35

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
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

Property is also known as

Great Private Home Middle Island House Bald Head Island

Great Private Home Middle Island Bald Head Island

Welcome Saltmarsh Retreat Bald Head Island House

Welcome Saltmarsh Retreat Bald Head Island

Welcome Saltmarsh Retreat

Saltmarsh Retreat Great Private Home on Middle Island

Great Private Home on Middle Island!

379320

Welcome Saltmarsh Retreat House

Välkommen Till Saltmarsh Retreat på Bald Head Island!

Private Island Sanctuary in the Maritime Forest, Stunning Views & Modern Architecture Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 43 out of 51 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 51 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 51 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 51 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 51 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

Robert C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beach week

Our stay was great and the setting was nice. Beds were very comfortable but the pillows could use some upgrade. Loved all the natural light and windows on the top floor. The grill did have several small And large cockroach type bugs. Over all the house was nice.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michelle H.

Weekend getaway

We loved exploring the island and riding bikes everywhere.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ivy S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect!

Perfect location, perfect house, and very attentive hosts. Anything we needed or had questions about, was a call/text away and we got a quick response. The house was nestled perfectly by the marsh. 3 carts for 8 people made transporting to and from the house very easy. I have nothing bad to say about the house or the hosts. I hope we can stay here again next year!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Andrew G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fantastic, secluded retreat

We loved our stay at this property. It was tucked away in a cul-de-sac on the marsh. It was extremely private and peaceful and exactly what we were looking for. If you’re looking to escape from the hustle and bustle, this is a choice location on Bald Head Island. The property was meticulously maintained down to even the plants both inside and outside of the home which is unusual. You can sense the attention to detail of the owners and their care for every little thing. The house is a beautiful and well fabricated open concept modern design that our family, (54, 42, 11, 8, 4) adored. Very safe as well, despite having a rambunctious toddler on the premise.. Easy access to the south beach and Maritime market, etc. If you are somewhat of a reclusive eco-hippy like we are, this is a choice spot on Bald, Head, Island which is already in Moore, private destinations in most mainland offerings.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Shay B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect retreat

This was our 2nd time staying and it was even better than the first. The house is perfect. The kitchen is great for cooking. New golf carts are a great upgrade. Very relaxing week.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Amanda M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Such a special home, off the beating path

We’ve stayed at this house many times and always enjoy it. It feels like a tree house. We love the privacy, marsh views, and all the wonderful nature sounds. We will certainly be back again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Paula F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Off into the woods

We loved having a Whole house and we lived in the kitchen. Great Thanksgiving trip. We also loved having the three golf carts so people could split up. Basement area was smaller than photos maybe the photos were taken with a wide angle lens but we ended up living upstairs in the kitchen.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kory G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Love Salt Marsh Retreat

This is our second stay and it feels like an exotic home away from home. Top floor is such a great place for the family to spread out and relax! Can’t wait to book again.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2021

8/10 Good

Rebecca W.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fabulous house and location but has a wasp problem

We had a lovely stay at this house. All of the other reviewers accurately describe the wonderful location and privacy of the house. The kitchen was well-equipped, and the house had gates for the stairs that made it very family-friendly. Proximity to the private beach access was also wonderful. We have two primary complaints: the cleaning staff were running behind, so we didn't get into the house until 45 min after the designated check-in time. In their rush to finish up, they didn't restock essential items (e.g., one of the bathrooms was out of toilet paper). BHI services staff was responsive to my email and delivered toilet paper and paper towels early the next morning. The biggest issue were the number of wasp nests around the house; the house is in desperate need of a thorough wasp treatment. During the course of our week-long stay, we had 10 wasps inside the house, 3 in a back bedroom, 1 in a bathroom, and 6 in the kitchen/living room. We suspect there is an entry point for the wasps because we were deliberate about only using the garage door and making sure we went in and out quickly after we found the first few wasps. I communicated this to the BHI Services staff, but no one was able to come out and take care of the outdoor nests during our stay. I would jump at the chance to stay at the house again, but I strongly recommend a thorough pest treatment!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Daniele B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great house in nature

Excellent stay! The beach and the golf carts are certainly a plus! We would have liked more tennis courts to play on the island and it is surprising there is not more coordination between the tram and the ferry! Baggage can get delayed: we waited 2 hours going back to Southport
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Heather H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Spring Get Away

Really enjoyed our stay!
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness

Tranquil as you like

The hype is real. The privacy you get is enough to make this property worth the price of admission. Plenty of space, perfect views and convenience for multiple families at a time. We will be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kelly B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful special place on a beautiful part of the island

Wonderful special place on a beautiful part of the island. Thank you for sharing this spot with our family
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Marc P., Seattle, WA

Liked: Cleanliness

Fantastic - the description and photos are spot on

Looks just like the pictures. About as far as you can get from anything yet still incredibly close (<15 min to Maritime Market). Plenty of space, well furnished.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lynn M., Wilmington, NC

Liked: Cleanliness

Idyllic retreat

This property is simply lovely. Saltmarsh Retreat is nestled among the trees on Middle Island — there is not another house in sight, so it feels like a real getaway from the world. It’s tastefully furnished, the kitchen is well stocked, and the view of the marsh is beautiful. Highly recommended!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie N.

Liked: Cleanliness

BHI Christmas

Our family was able to gather safely for a wonderful Christmas on the island. Spotless, lodge like accommodations with peaceful views of the marsh. Crafted all of our meals at home with ease in the well appointed kitchen! Thankful to find an additional TV in the main living space upstairs. Beds were super comfortable. Enjoyed exploring Middle Island on foot and bike. Views of the sunsets on the dock were beautiful and we enjoyed the private beach access on East Beach.

10/10 Excellent

Dennis Q., Greensboro NC

Liked: Cleanliness

Loved our stay!

This place was perfect for us. We’ll be back. The design and craftsmanship is extraordinary. I’m surprised it hasn’t been featured in architectural publications or maybe it has been and we missed them. We loved all that plus that it was private, sort of “at one” with nature, super clean, has great outdoor spaces, well maintained carts and a great light filled kitchen and living space.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Shay B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Outstanding!

This was by far the best place we’ve ever stayed on the island. It was the perfect retreat. Will be renting again.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Betty R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great house!

Secluded and tranquil stay at this home. It is one of the cleanest places we have stayed on the island. Previous posts stated there were roaches but we only saw one which is minimal compared to the number of roaches in other houses. It is inevitable. Beds were comfortable and kitchen was well equipped! Will definitely be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness

Our Favorite Place to Escape

We love this house so much, this year was our first time with an infant and it was so seamless. The owners and property managers really make sure the house is Ready to handle it all. We love that the owners love nature as much as we do. Can not wait for next year! Thank you

10/10 Excellent

kasi g.

Privacy

Loved the privacy
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2020

4/10 Poor

LARRY L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Disappointed

Lots of cockroaches! No FOX news on TV, why not? Terrible Channel selection on TV. No information on wi fi in any literature, we finally found password on router in a small bedroom hidden around a corner and behind a basket! The dock featured on web site did not exist. No trail along marsh either. Home is beautiful with all needed appliances and accessories.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2020

10/10 Excellent

Karla O.

Liked: Cleanliness

LOVE THIS HOUSE!!!

Not only is the house super cool, they have thought of everything, convenience-wise. It is an easy house to walk into and find everything you need. The kitchen is very well stocked and a joy to cook in.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jessica T., Durham, NC

Liked: Cleanliness

Our favorite place to stay

Our favorite place to stay on Bald Head! A perfect house in a gorgeous setting.
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Alexa D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Peaceful stay in Middle Island

We had a wonderful stay at Saltmarsh retreat right before school started. The house is beautiful and interesting - definitely not your standard BHI house. We loved the reverse layout with the kitchen overlooking the marsh. The house is a short 7 minute cart ride to the closest East Beach access point and a longer 20-ish minute ride to the Marina. The house had everything we needed for the week. The management company was great too - one of the carts got a flat tire and someone came to fix it less than an hour after I called. Overall, wonderful stay and we hope to rent there again!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2020

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