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Cozy ocean front frequently called "A REAL beach house!"

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

5 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 10223 sq m

Popular amenities

Kitchen

Air conditioning

Dryer

Washer

Barbecue grill

Outdoor space

Explore the area

Wilmington, NC

Figure Eight Island1 min walk
Wrightsville SUP25 min drive
Johnnie Mercer's Pier26 min drive
Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.)27 min drive

Most relevant reviews

10/10 Excellent

We enjoyed our stay. So much charm and to sit on that porch and take in the ocean….just nothing like it! Convenient to s...

Judy Z.

Nov 25, 2023

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 5

2 Single Beds

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 3

Outdoor shower

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Balcony

Dining Area

About this property

Sandy Paws Cozy Beach House and direct ocean front on Figure Eight Island

Our house is on a secluded, uncrowded private island, directly on the ocean with a white sandy beach and clear ocean water. The clean water provides excellent fishing and surfing. We are ardent conservationists and have managed to preserve the natural vegetation around the house. We have lots of beach grass and sea oats. The birding around the house is fabulous and we have fall visitors who come just to bird watch. Surf fishing is very good in front of the house because of a slew that has been there for at least 30 years.

The Beach House is a cozy, older oceanfront home. The home was built in 1969 by Paul and CoCo Foster on Figure 8 Island close to Wilmington North Carolina. The design is a mix of Caribbean, Central American and historic Carolina style coastal homes. Our furnishings are eclectic with many 1950's pieces copied from the famous 1952 Herman Miller catalog while the Fosters were living in Central America. Google map it: 126 Beach Road S, Wilmington,

Our house has five bedrooms and two full bathrooms. There is a warm water outside shower which is the most popular bathing area in the summer. The kitchen is fully equipped including a microwave and all the cookware a chef would want. We left the natural vegetation so there are plenty of sea oats and a growing maritime forest. The birds love it!

The house is located on Figure Eight Island just north of Wilmington, North Carolina. It is a private island and a gated community, accessible only to land owners and their guests. There are no public facilities on the island. It has the only privately owned bridge over the Intercostal Waterway. We have clean and white sandy beaches with blue-green ocean water. Multiple loggerhead turtle nests hatch yearly. The beach is not crowded since the public is not allowed on the island.

Our house is light and airy and very relaxed. This is not a luxury home, but a functional beach house. Sandy toes are not a problem! Smoking is permitted outside, but must be carefully controlled because of the high winds and fire hazards. We have had several houses burn down on the island due to cigarette butts left burning in the sand or on the porch.

Property manager

Paula Bushardt

Premier Host

Languages

English, Spanish

Amenities

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

Ocean view

Birds Eye view of the Tree House/ Ocean to sound views Nestled high in the trees

Ocean view

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 35

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

The railings are pre-code but safe.

Events

Events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

No fireworks or jet skis on the island. Fires can be bad at the beach so be careful with the outside grilling and smoking.

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

Parties and events are allowed on site

Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Wilmington

Located in Wilmington, this holiday home is on the beach. Eagle Point Golf Club and Wrightsville SUP are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park and Cape Fear Paddleboarding. Travelling with kids? Consider Aussie Island Surf Shop and South End Surf Shop. Discover the area's water adventures with scuba diving and waterskiing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with ecotours and horse riding.

Wilmington, NC

What's nearby

Figure Eight Island - 1 min walk
Mayfaire Town Center - 21 min drive
Wrightsville SUP - 25 min drive
Johnnie Mercer's Pier - 26 min drive
Wrightsville Beach - 28 min drive

Getting around

Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) - 28 min drive

Restaurants

‪Chick-Fil-A - ‬13 min drive
‪McDonald's - ‬14 min drive
‪Broomtail Pub & Arcade - ‬16 min drive
‪Shark Bar And Kitchen - ‬26 min drive
‪Ogden Tap Room - ‬16 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Sandy Paws Cozy Beach House and direct ocean front on Figure Eight Island pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Sandy Paws Cozy Beach House and direct ocean front on Figure Eight Island?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Sandy Paws Cozy Beach House and direct ocean front on Figure Eight Island?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Sandy Paws Cozy Beach House and direct ocean front on Figure Eight Island located?

This Wilmington holiday home is on the beach, 0.1 mi (0.1 km) from Figure Eight Island, and within 9 mi (15 km) of Eagle Point Golf Club and Ogden Park. Cape Fear Paddleboarding and Wrightsville Beach Museum of History are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Jeff B.

12 June 2024

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

Sandy Paws Always Delivers

Great location. Beautiful views. House is like going back in time! Simple and beautiful.

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jami B.

22 Apr 2024

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

Wedding weekend

The cottage was convenient to all festivities and we certainly could not have asked for better views.

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Steve B.

8 Apr 2024

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

Birthday Beach Trip

The home is as advertised. Nothing fancy, but beautiful natural surroundings and everything you need for a great time.

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Judy Z.

25 Nov 2023

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

A truly special place

We enjoyed our stay. So much charm and to sit on that porch and take in the ocean….just nothing like it! Convenient to shopping and restaurants and all Wilmington has to offer.

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michele B., Marion, NC

16 Nov 2023

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

Idyllic, authentic beach house experience

Another peaceful and relaxing visit to Sandy Paws, surrounded by nature both indoors and out. We held my husband’s celebration of life here this time. The owners are so gracious and accommodating. I’m already planning my next stay. One of a kind - 5 stars all around

Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2023

8/10 Good

Dorothea R.

9 Nov 2023

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

Figure 8

The view was beautiful! Beach access was easy. The fresh wildflowers were so welcoming!

Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Judith E.

6 Nov 2023

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

Relaxing

The sounds of the waves and the views are just perfect! There were 9 of us and it really wasn’t a problem having just the 2 bathrooms. It’s not updated but we loved the originality of the home. I would stay there again.

Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

DONALD P.

6 Oct 2023

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

A real beach house

Sandy Paws is a real beach house. Simple, but really wonderful. I have stayed in many houses on the island and feel that this has one of the best views of the water. I highly recommend staying here if you want an old school beach vacation. Do not stay here if you are looking for a fancy smancy palatial beach house. Sandy Paws has everything you need. Just not fancy We were here for a wedding and our party of 8 adults fit easily and comfortably. My siblings have houses on the island, but I would not hesitate to stay here again.

Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

8/10 Good

Patricia B.

5 Oct 2023

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

Wedding week in Wilmington

Fantastic experience! Of course, I got to experience all the master bedroom offered: private bath & gorgeous sunrise views from my comfy bed each morning. The other guests we invited had to share the one bathroom. We hosted the wedding rehearsal party here & there was plenty of space for 40. Really special place. Great vibe. Amazing views. VERY Well-stocked kitchen EXCELLENT communication w owner. Note:4 stars bc of the one bathroom for guests.

Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Todd K.

29 Aug 2023

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

Great getaway

Been renting this place for years and it never disappoints

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Beach C.

14 Aug 2023

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

Amazing Beach Vacation!

We loved our stay at Sandy Paws! It is a true "beach house" and we loved the decks on both sides of the house, ocean-front location, and the ocean views from inside. Having only two bathrooms was a bit of a challenge for 10 people, but we made it work - and the outside shower helped a lot. The surfboards, beach chairs, bikes, and other gear were great to have as well. Figure 8 Island is truly a special place and we look forward to coming back to Sandy Paws soon!

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Melissa C.

7 Aug 2023

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

Absolutely perfect!

We’ve stayed several times and each time we are sad to leave. We look forward to our next stay in the most perfect beach house on a beautiful and peaceful island.

Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ronald D., Jackson Springs, NC

23 July 2023

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

Perfect Location

This is such a great house on the beach. Very cozy with plenty of room. And the views from the main living room and deck were perfect! The living spaces for group activities are great, and the bedrooms are good sizes. Access to the beach is easy and fantastic. The bathroom situation is not ideal for a group of 6 adults and 2 children, but we made it work. I highly recommend Sandy Paws.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Will W., CHARLOTTE

17 June 2023

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

Unsurpassed beach experience

Oceanfront steps to the beach. Private island ensures an uncrowded beach. Eclectic old school beach cottage very well supplied with beach equipment.

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

6 June 2023

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

Perfect house!

Everything about this house was perfect for our family. The location, the decor and the size! The owners are responsive and it is a well-loved house. Great week!

Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joel F.

5 June 2023

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

Memorial Weekend

Great location & property as usual.

Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jessica G., Boca Raton, Fl USA

23 May 2023

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

A true beach house!

Sandy Paws is just as described! It reminds me of beach houses that I grew up going to all over the coast of NC. Nothing fancy, but has all the elements of an oceanfront home that can be enjoyed by family and friends.

Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lauren H.

19 Apr 2023

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

2nd visit

Great beach house!

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Moisha P.

13 Apr 2023

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

Amazing location. Comfortable classic beach house. We’ll be back for sure.

Smooth and easy

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michele B., Marion, NC

13 Nov 2022

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

Brignac/Ruzakowski/Hanley party of 4 November 2022

A warm cozy comfortable jewel box on an amazing island. Filled with natural treasures from well lived lives which the owners are gracious enough to share with the rest of us. One of a kind.

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sarah E.

9 Nov 2022

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

Beachfront House with Eclectic Vibes

We had a great time staying at this house! It was amazing to fall asleep listening to the ocean waves and be able to walk right out onto the beach. The house is full of eclectic art and decor and is very comfortable.

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

William G., Cary

15 Oct 2022

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

A True Beach House

This is the type of beach house I grew up knowing in the 60's.....a little rough around the edges but comfortable. Well appointed, clean house with everything you need to cook a meal. Interesting artwork. Great communication with the owner. Very private and secluded. Future renters should know that Figure 8 Island had major beach erosion recently and beach access is a challenge for the elderly.

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jeff B., Raleigh, NC

26 Sept 2022

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

Great Beach House

Great location. Wonderful island. House is in great condition and we love the fact it is original beach house style and decor! Love the view from the front porch.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Melissa C.

2 Sept 2022

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

Pure joy!

This is our 5th time staying at Sandy Paws. We love it so much and look forward to our next stay.

Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Todd K.

17 Aug 2022

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

Great location

Great property, traditional beach house Love the property

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

About the host

Hosted by Paula Bushardt

My father and mother built this house to retire in. They spent almost 30 years there and loved every minute, except maybe the hurricanes. I love our house and hope you do too!

Why they chose this property

Our house is special because it is a real beach house. No worries about sandy paws here! Just enjoy the beach and the house the old fashion way. We don't even mind if you cut the AC off and open the windows!