Entire home

Mid-Century Modern on Private Beach, Designed by Award Winning Architect!

Photo gallery for Mid-Century Modern on Private Beach, Designed by Award Winning Architect!

Property grounds
Hammock on back patio
Property grounds
Front walk and entryway
Property grounds

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 5148.6 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Beach view
  • Pet-friendly
  • Dryer
  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Fireplace

Explore the area

Map
Chesapeake Beach, MD
  • Breezy Point Beach
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Chesapeake Beach Water Park
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Rod n Reel Charter Fishing
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Camp Springs, MD (ADW-Andrews Air Force Base)
    ‪39 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bay Room

1 Queen Bed

Garden Room

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Office
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Mid-Century Modern on Private Beach, Designed by Award Winning Architect!

Come enjoy living in mid-century modern style, with sweeping views of the Chesapeake Bay, all within a short drive from the Washington, DC metropolitan area, Annapolis, Solomons Island, fishing charters and our many local historic sites. This property is also U.S. Army veteran (Afghanistan and Iraq) owned and operated, as well as LGBTQ safe and friendly.

Award winning local architect, James William Ritter III, of Ritter-Norton Architecture, located in Alexandria, Virginia, purchased, completely rebuilt and redesigned this home for his wife and himself, when they began their retirement. The architect's son, Mark Ritter, and his spouse, Nicholas Knowlton, now own the home and want to welcome you to enjoy this unique house and its magical setting. https://www.ritternorton.com/james

Here, you'll enjoy the true modern ideal of blurring the lines between interior and exterior spaces. Wake up in the morning to the sounds of seabirds calling and waves lapping on the beach. Start your day right, in our open, multi-head, shower stall, with heated floors and protected views of our perennial garden. A huge bank of windows and sliding glass doors makes the Bay the centerpiece of the entire living and kitchen areas. The house draws you outside to enjoy a morning cup of coffee on the veranda, head down the stairs for direct access to a day on the beach or simply enjoy a glass of wine, while relaxing with a book in the hammock.

Disclosure: We have hard water. Most of our renters had no complaints or issues, but it has bothered one or two. Therefore, we decided to be upfront about it, rather than have a renter find out upon arrival. Hard water is a problem you’ll unfortunately find in almost any home in this region. We do not provide refunds relating to this issue, given this upfront disclosure.

Property manager

Nick
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 30
Check out before 11:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 13–17
Younger children = immediate cancelation/eviction
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 1 total)
Do not allow urination on lawn terraces.
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Please do not allow dogs to urinate on the lawn terraces, only the side yards, or down by the path to the shore. Map also available in house guide
No dogs on furniture or beds, please. 🙂
Absolutely no spray tan application in or near the house. It stains paint and surfaces. Bad rating will go on your record. Lotion form is okay.

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

About the area

Chesapeake Beach

Located in Chesapeake Beach, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the beach. Bruce Gabrielson's Surf Art Gallery and Museum and Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Chesapeake Beach Water Park and R&J's PlayPark. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Chesapeake Beach, MD

What's nearby

  • Breezy Point Beach - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Bruce Gabrielson's Surf Art Gallery and Museum - 4 min drive - 3.5 km
  • Chesapeake Beach Water Park - 10 min drive - 8.8 km
  • Rod n Reel Charter Fishing - 10 min drive - 8.7 km
  • Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum - 10 min drive - 8.7 km

Getting around

  • Easton, MD (ESN-Easton - Newnam) - 94 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Plaza Mexico - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Traders Seafood Steak & Ale - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Mexico Restaurant - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪China King - ‬12 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Mid-Century Modern on Private Beach, Designed by Award Winning Architect! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total).

What time is check-in at Mid-Century Modern on Private Beach, Designed by Award Winning Architect!?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Mid-Century Modern on Private Beach, Designed by Award Winning Architect!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Mid-Century Modern on Private Beach, Designed by Award Winning Architect! located?

Nestled on the beach, this Chesapeake Beach holiday home is 0.8 mi (1.2 km) from Breezy Point Beach and 2.1 mi (3.4 km) from Bruce Gabrielson's Surf Art Gallery and Museum. Rod n Reel Charter Fishing and Marley Run Recreation Area are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 73 out of 77 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 77 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 77 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 77 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 77 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Andrew H.

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

Wonderful stay on the Chesapeake

An absolutely beautiful, architecturally fascinating, spotlessly clean, well stocked home with views that go on for literally miles. We spent a late winter weekend there with a fire roaring in the fireplace and mussels on the stove. Hosts were exceptionally responsive and very attentive. Highly recommended. One of the best experiences we've ever had in home rentals!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lara D.

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

Beautiful view and property

Panoramic views of the water and sunsets. Loved the elevation of the property and the gorgeous trees that framed but did not obstruct the view. The layout was great and attention to detail throughout the home impressive.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

John M.

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

Great Bayfront House

Great house. Had everything you need for a vacation rental. Had great views, watched ducks and eagles. Got sharks teeth from beach. Definitely recommend to ones seeking Bayfront getaway.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Leonard W.

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

We'll be back

Absolutely amazing place to get away and relax. 3rd time staying here.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

8/10 Good

Gary A.

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

Only issue was the smelly water

Beautiful place
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Katrina L.

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

Perfect Place for a Private Stay

This place is an ideal getaway from the DC area. It's got a well-equipped kitchen, several quiet spaces for reading and relaxing, a peaceful ambiance, as well as comfortable design and smart style. The beach is a super place to explore, and it is highly accessible even in the cold of winter. Life doesn't get much more mellow when you're piping music through the house, and watching the bay change colors in warm, soft socks on heated floors.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Aurelio P.

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

Stay by the beach

Nice mid - century modern house. We enjoyed the stay. The views from the porch to the ocean are stunning.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Warren P.

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

Captivating

The house was amazing! From the moment the front door opened it was a visual feast. The views are incredible, it's quiet, private and very relaxing. There were personal elements reflecting the current and original owners which we found very interesting and the attention to detail throughout was superb! Everything was incredibly well stocked with a multitude of extras.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karen W.

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

Paradise

Hands down our favorite place to stay! Would love to keep in a secret, but need to sing its praises. Nick is awesome and answers any questions you may have. The house is well appointed, lovely neighborhood and location is perfect to rest and relax.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jim R.

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

Outstanding

The ratings were Exceptional, so I was skeptical. However, it was beyond exceptional. The most well equipped rental we have seen. Great location. Well stocked. Excellent communication with the host. Couldn’t have asked for anything more. Definitely recommend, and will stay here again when in the area. We had a great time.
Stayed 10 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joel K.

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

Beautiful view

Enjoyed the little room off the kitchen to watch the bay waves and nature. Saw a baby deer!
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Becky B.

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

Fantastic mid-mod beach house

This is the perfect location for two people (or two couples and a dog). The location is only about an hour outside DC — super easy commute in and out. The renovation done on this mid-mod house is just stunning. You’ll have the perfect view of the sea from the sunroom/office, kitchen, living room, and the master bedroom. My dog George really enjoyed just exploring around the property and on the beach — we were there the last week of summer so “off season”; it was quiet and few people until Thursday and then only locals and a few end-of-season weekenders. You’ll have access to Willow Beach below from the steps. The beach is just the right length for a pleasant morning and evening stroll. Highly recommend.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rich M.

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

Perfect

Everything I expected and more. Quite beautiful.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kathy P.

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

Wonderful Getaway!

We (husband and two sons) had the most wonderful time at this house! Nick was very easy to work with. The house was perfect and had everything we needed and more. When we walked into the house for the first time, we all said, wow! The view is gorgeous! You can tell someone really put a lot of thought and love into all the details. We would return, and I highly recommend this house! Thank you, Nick!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Teresa C.

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

Absolutely perfect!

We loved everything about this stunning home- the architecture, the breathtaking views from almost every room, the gorgeous private beach, it was all absolutely wonderful! We spent our days on the beach and the nights relaxing and enjoying the sunsets and hammock. We found everything we needed in the well stocked kitchen.We were sad to leave, but we have already booked a longer stay for next year! Can’t say enough good things about this lovely home- thanks so much for sharing it, and we can’t wait to return! Nicholas was very helpful and responsive!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Beth C.

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

Peace on the Bay

The house is a perfect retreat! I watched the sunrise from my bedroom and porch with my coffee each day of our stay. My parents live just 2 doors down. I have been coming to this neighborhood since the 70's. I still love hunting for fossils on the beach. Thank you for allowing us to book this spot!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca M.

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

Relaxing on The Bay

The house was lovely. We had 3 days of rain but the view and the beach made it interesting at all times. The hosts make sure you have everything you need for your comfort and entertainment. This is by far the best appointed house we have rented. Thank you for a wonderful week!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cathleen D.

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

Heaven!!! ❤️

Beautiful view!!! Lovely home!! We so thoroughly enjoyed our stay and hope that this is just one of many visits. Thank you!
Stayed 9 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karen W.

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

Our favorite relaxation spot

Our second visit here and was just as perfect as the first go around. We love this house, neighborhood, everything here! Well stocked kitchen, comfortable beds, the modern amenities are endless. Nick answered any questions we had promptly. The perfect place to rest and relax
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Scott C.

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

A beautiful spot

The beast sunrise
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Julianna F.

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

Our second stay

It was our second time staying here, and we enjoyed it so much! A nice peaceful weekend in a beautiful place!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tina K.

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

Beautiful house

Gorgeous home and location… we will definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

David T.

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

Trip to the Western Maryland shore

We enjoyed our stay at this home --> perfect for my wife and I; plus our small dog. Despite the relatively small footprint, there was ample space. I attribute this to the brilliantly efficient design. The view of the bay was beautiful - the side of the house facing the bay is dominated by windows. All our expectations for comfort, cleanliness, quietness and convenience were met. The location of the home provided a great jumping point to visit other locations on the western shore of Maryland. Since I like to keep up with work while away; I appreciated that there was a separate space in the house that served as a great work area. We also appreciated Nic, the host, who was quickly responsive to all our communications. Finally, we always travel with our well behaved small dog. This home was very pet friendly.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Leonard W.

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

Fabulous

Nice relaxing break
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth S.

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

Perfect Winter Weekend Getaway

We had a wonderful time at this spectacular home for a winter weekend getaway from the city. Everything was simply perfect, no detail missed. This was the best vacation rental we've ever experienced. We hope to return. Many thanks for such a wonderful visit.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

About the host

Hosted by Nick

Host profile image
We live full time in northern Virginia. We took over the Bay House from my father-in-law, after he re-married and they decided they wanted to live elsewhere.

I’ve always loved hosting parties and having house guests, as well as making everything perfect for them. Putting the house on vrbo, seemed a great way to extend that idea into a money making venture.

Why they chose this property

First, the view! Second, proximity to the Washington, DC area makes it an easy get-away for us. It’s also a friendly little neighborhood, and we love having the private beach (no crowds!).

What makes this property unique

Two words: great architecture.

The house was rebuilt and redesigned by an architect who is in the top one half of one percent of his profession in the entire country: my father-in-law, James William Ritter. He is a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, which is a very rare level of distinction, one given to him by other architects, so when you stay here, you experience residential architecture at a level often reserved for only a few very lucky home owners.

We love sharing the Ritter Bay House with people and hope it provides a teaching moment, allowing guests to appreciate how great architecture can alter how you feel within a home and interact with the greater environment around it. Great architecture isn’t just about being pretty; it should affect one’s moods, how one moves and what one sees.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests