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Spectacular Riverfront Retreat with Kid-Friendly Beach. Enjoy the ‘Riva Life’!

Photo gallery for Spectacular Riverfront Retreat with Kid-Friendly Beach. Enjoy the ‘Riva Life’!

A stunning arial view of the estate, the East River into Moback Bay at the top
View of Mariner's Legacy from the East River
Enjoy the river right from the brand new leather sectional. Smart TV also!
Unbelievable Rivah views a you sink into the leather sectional. Lots of seating
Imagine being able to see the river straight through the house as you walk in!

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
6 bedrooms3+ bathroomsSleeps 12246.2 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Bohannon, VA
  • Gwynn's Island Musuem
    ‪22 min drive‬
  • Deltaville Marina
    ‪36 min drive‬
  • Busch Gardens Williamsburg
    ‪57 min drive‬
  • Newport News, VA (PHF-Newport News - Williamsburg Intl.)
    ‪54 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

6 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed and 1 Crib

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 5

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 6

2 Single Beds

3 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 3

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 4

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden

About this property

Spectacular Riverfront Retreat with Kid-Friendly Beach. Enjoy the ‘Riva Life’!

Discover the breathtaking riverfront six-bedroom getaway located in Mathews. Imagine waking up to the spectacular views of the East River. Watch the sunrise on one side of the wraparound porch and the sunset from another side. You'll have everything you need to make the most of your stay, including free WiFi for 18 devices, a fully stocked laundry room with large washing machine and dryer. Multiple kayaks, a pedal boat for four, bikes, corn hole and life jackets in multiple sizes are available for your use with no extra charge. There are also crab pots with a crab steamer, large and small, to cook your catch.

Spend your days exploring the nearby points of interest, then return to your home-away-from-home and enjoy the fully stocked and newly renovated chefs kitchen. Large refrigerator plus extra fridge on enclosed back porch, double ovens with built-in air fryers, double dishwashers, 36” 5 burner cooktop, dedicated coffee bar and favorite adult beverage area.

The kitchen cabinets have been built with comfort in mind. Pull-out drawers have replaced shelves so you can easily find what you need. Quartz countertops make clean-up easy. Dedicated baking drawers with supplies. There is an entire cabinet from ceiling to floor of pull-out drawers for our guests supplies.

The large dining table has seating for 12 so everyone can gather for family meals. There is also an outdoor white Pottery Barn table on the wraparound porch to eat overlooking the river. If you are lucky, you might see the pods of dolphins that come up the river. Step outside from the back porch and fire up the grill for all your grilling needs. Propane tanks are provided.

When it's time to unwind, sink into the comfortable large leather sectional sofa in the “riva” room or head out to the porch and take in the stunning water views. The children will enjoy playing on the play set while the parents can see them from the kitchen. At night, enjoy the fire pit with Adirondack chairs for 12 with firewood provided. The beach area is perfect for children to become comfortable in the water. Beach chairs, loungers are provided as well as plastic chairs you can literally sit in the river! You can challenge your loved ones to a game night with the selection of games provided.

This vacation home has everything you need for a truly memorable stay. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the beachfront location and create lasting memories with your family and friends.

Property manager

Danette Aldrich Machen
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 27
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Includes full size crib, high chair & playground
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
Please ask us prior to confirmation for pet rules
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
We recommend each guest bring a pair of water shoes if they plan on accessing the water. Oyster shells can wash up with the tides
Do not open windows in the bedrooms. This is a house that is over 150 years old. We need to keep a low humidity environment and a constant temperature
We highly recommend each group purchase trip insurance at time of rental for unforeseen changes in your group, such as emergencies, pregnancy

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

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Bohannon

Located in Westville, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the beach. Gloucester Museum of History and Deltaville Maritime Museum are cultural highlights, and travellers looking to shop may want to visit Main Street Center and Walter Reed Plaza. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Bohannon, VA

What's nearby

  • Gwynn's Island Musuem - 22 min drive - 20.7 km
  • Bethel Beach Natural Area Preserve - 33 min drive - 27.0 km
  • Deltaville Marina - 36 min drive - 32.8 km
  • Yorktown Beach - 41 min drive - 45.6 km
  • Busch Gardens Williamsburg - 57 min drive - 62.2 km

Getting around

  • Newport News, VA (PHF-Newport News - Williamsburg Intl.) - 54 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Shun Xing Restaurant - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Linda's Diner - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Hardee's - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Southwind Pizza - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Mi Casa Azteca Mexican Restaurant & Cantina - ‬17 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Spectacular Riverfront Retreat with Kid-Friendly Beach. Enjoy the ‘Riva Life’! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

What time is check-in at Spectacular Riverfront Retreat with Kid-Friendly Beach. Enjoy the ‘Riva Life’!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Spectacular Riverfront Retreat with Kid-Friendly Beach. Enjoy the ‘Riva Life’!?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Spectacular Riverfront Retreat with Kid-Friendly Beach. Enjoy the ‘Riva Life’! located?

Nestled on the beach, this Westville holiday home is within 16 mi (25 km) of Gwynn's Island Musuem, Brown Park and Fairfield Foundation. Main Street Center and Gloucester Public Library are also within 16 miles (25 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 180 out of 183 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 183 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 183 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 183 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 183 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Mario D.

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

Texas Proud

Family came up to visit us from Texas. Everyone enjoyed the sights and new memories made. Plenty space and weather was fantastic.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michele F.

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

Family Wedding House/Evacuation Shelter

Little did we know that our plans would have to be modified due to a Hurricane! We contacted the gracious host and they scrambled to get the house ready in advance!! After we had rebooked our flights, due to Hurricane Milton, we arrived in the middle of the night one day early!! The hosts did everything in their power to seamlessly let us settle in. (including morning bagels and coffee) As we were travelling with two babies, they even let our local family members in early, to set up an additional crib ahead of our nocturnal arrival. The home was well (incredibly really) stocked with everything you could need for a fabulous week. The home is historic and incredibly maintained. Everything is spic and span clean and easy to navigate. The house is kid-friendly and I would say the child swing/playground was my personal favorite place to be with my grandbabies. The property was just gorgeous. Each morning we enjoyed the beautiful sunrises over the river while sipping coffee on the wrap-around porch. So serene! Butterflies, hummingbirds, Osprey and other wildlife can be found on every inch of the property. The town is quaint and the people in this area are very welcoming. We were really fortunate to be close to other family members, staying close by- and the wedding venue. I can not say enough about the hospitality shown to all of us. Now that we have new-family right down the street, we will be going back!!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Marsha S.

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

Wonderful Stay

We were a group of ten older adults who travel together. We have stayed in many vacation rentals and Mariner's Legacy was one of the best, if not the best, places we have ever rented. The house was inviting and cozy. The kitchen was well appointed. The porch was incredible. We especially liked watching the sun come up. We highly recommend this beautiful home. Thank you for sharing it with us.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brent

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

Lovely Extended Weekend

We had a great time relaxing next to the water, kayaking, fishing and overall having a fabulous time. There is plenty of space for activities outside as well as enjoying a movie at night inside. Thanks again for a wonderful trip!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

DW B.

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

Peace and Quiet!

Such a beautiful property! The pictures do not do the actual house justice. The common rooms are large allowing your group/family to share time together, or find quiet time. The bedrooms are on the small side, but you won't spend any time there but to sleep. The beds are super comfortable, however, one person on each queen felt like they were falling out of the bed. I think the sides are just soft. But again, the bed and sheets were very comfortable. If you are used to a king bed, you may need to sleep in the singles like we did. The kitchen is 100% stocked with everything you will need. We brought a lot and wish we had not overpacked. If you do need something there is a very nice Food Lion within 15 minutes in a very cute town, Matthew's. Also, the pizza at the Salty Dog Pizza in Matthew's is amazing! Highly recommend!! There are games, and towels available (We brought games and they had the same games. and we didn't need to bring towels!) The air conditioning is split between levels, we were all very comfortable sleeping at night. There are bikes and kayaks as mentioned. But the bikes are old and rusty, The kayaks are difficult to adjust for a proper fit, however, for most people that will not be an issue. I would recommend bringing your own bike if you plan on going on bike rides. The listing also mentions a pier, but it is not on the property, and you have to drive to it. We were hoping to fish and crab from the pier but did not due to the inconvenience.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Debbie F.

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

Peaceful and beautiful

The house is everything you could want! Very clean and impeccably kept. The owner is on the same property, so they keep the lawn and property beautiful. It was a very hot and humid week, but the AC kept the house very comfortable. The wrap around porch is absolutely spectacular. The dining room table was perfect for both meals and family games in the evening. About the only thing that would make this place any better would be a dock right at the property to fish, crab and tie your boat to. The house is absolutely a 10!!!!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Donald B.

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

Better than the pictures

If you want a hastle free vacation then this is it! The views couldn't be better. Playground and sandy beach for kids to play. Plenty of relaxing seating in the house and the 3 sided wrap around porch. Everything is just as described. Bring your food and enjoy
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tom L.

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

Amazing family vacation

We just spent a week at this beautiful home with our adult children. It was amazing time celebrated my wife’s 60th birthday and we had a baby reveal with the newest member of our family Little baby Jayde will arrive sometime in November overall very relaxing. The accommodations were perfect. Couldn’t ask for anything better. The owners were very helpful and friendly. Thanks for a wonderful time.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Catherine B.

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

Family Vacation

We had a wonderful family vacation at Mariner’s Legacy. Everything was even better than described! The house was extremely clean and well equipped. The beautiful river view can be enjoyed from the wrap around porch and almost every room in the house. We enjoyed the river with the many kayaks and peddle boat provided. Hosts are exemplary. We definitely recommend and hope to return for another stay!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Paula P.

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

Lovely place!

This was a very clean house that had plenty of space and things to do. The hosts were thoughtful in their decorations and overall supplies in this beautiful home. We had a great time and are very thankful that we chose this property.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ralph Y.

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

Family Reunion

Perfect for us, five children under ten could run around with minimum supervision, allowing the parents to reconnect. Interaction with landlord was excellent, accommodations were excellent, really didn't need to bring anything but food.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dawn B.

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

Beautiful!

Mariner's Legacy was even more than we expected. The house is amazing. We brought a john boat and went crabbing, boat riding and fishing. We enjoyed sitting on the beach and floating in the river. Danette and Rick were so friendly, attentive to our needs and questions, and full of fascinating history they gladly shared with us. Will definitely be going back!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Emily H.

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

Amazing get away!

This is our second stay at this wonderful house on the East River. The home is fully equipped with all you need. You won’t regret staying here!!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Barbara C., Rochester, NY USA

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

Family Birthday

4 of us from Rochester, NY met 2 of us from Orlando, FL here at this lovely farmhouse. Once again we enjoyed the wrap around porch for coffee, kayaking off the beach, letting the dogs run, cooking for all of us plus 2 local guests a few times. The fire pit is a treasure. Beautiful fall scenery, visiting the nearby historic sites. Charming hosts, relaxing, fun and a wonderful time at this fully equipped home.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

victoria w.

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

Great host!

We had a very nice time!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stephen G., Port Saint Lucie, FL

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

Wedding party

This was an excellent stay for our entire family and friends. It was very relaxing and had plenty of room for all of our needs. I highly recommend this VRBO and Danette was a wonderful host. We want to come back just to enjoy a relaxing time in the future.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Theresa V.

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

Best time!

Truly one of the best vacations I have had. Meeting with friends is always fun but the house made it even more spectacular. I cannot say enough good things about it and the owners are just wonderful. Definitely will book this house again
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joyce N.

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

Our stay

It was GREAT!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Susan G.

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

Superlative

Our time at Mariners' Legacy could not have been better. Lovely water setting, kayaks, sandy beach. Lawn games, well equipped kitchen. Our group of siblings and spouses were delighted. Thank you so much. Great host and hostess!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Denise S., Akron

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

Peaceful getaway

Our stay was everything we wanted it to be - relaxing and fun. It felt like the river was ours and ours alone- quiet. Our family loved the river- swimming, fishing, kayaking, having meals together, we had a seafood boil 2 times with fresh crabs right out of the water-deliciously fresh. The house was cozy, comfortable, clean and very well stocked and organized. Wonderful vacation!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Karen W., Forest Hill, MD

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

Excellent Family Vacation!

Lovely location and well stocked historic house made for a magical week with family. The property is ver kid friendly and the views are breathtaking!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer D.

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

Wonderful Vacation Spot Four Generations

All rooms were clean and well stocked with linens. From age 5 to 78, everyone truly enjoyed the beach, water and front porch. Kiddos caught crabs in the crab traps and played in water til they were exhausted. Private yet still only 20 minutes from restaurants and markets. We were 10 souls total and there was still a room empty, enough space so you’re not tripping over each other. Owners have done a great job in preserving this beautiful home. Get up every morning to watch the sunrise from your covered porch! Plenty of places to sit and relax by beach or on the porch. Thank you for a great week!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Maurine D., New Haven

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

Everything the add said it would be.

Beautiful waterfront house with every amenity. Thank you for a great week.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rick T., The Villages FL

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

Heaven on Mobjack Bay

Mariner's Legacy is the most wonderful property we have visited. Being Disney World Annual Passholders, we are at Disney 5 to 10 times a year. Mariner's Legacy is better than Disney World. We had 7 adults who stayed all week. 7 kids 3 to 17 who visited during the day. Amenities are top notch, clean, and well stocked. This house is furnished very well and comfortable. We saw dolphins in the bay, the guys fished, two large tables for card games. Extra fridge is a sweet extra. We went to the store on day one and then relaxed and enjoyed family time the rest of the week. Thank you from all of us. God's beauty is always at work when you enjoy the water. Amazing rainbows and sunrises. Seriously considering making reservation again next year.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jenna S.

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

Beautiful!! Accurate description!

Met and exceeded expectations. Owners were very hospitable and the property was spacious and private. Little beach with small waves just right for our two year old to play in the water! House was clean and welcoming. Highly recommend. We will return!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

About the host

Hosted by Danette Aldrich Machen

Host profile image
Mariner's legacy has been in my family since circa 1867. My father farmed this land and I grew up in the house. I learned at an early age how to be a good steward of this special place we call home.

I married my Mathews High School sweetheart in 1979 after graduating from nursing school in Richmond. I have worked as an RN at the local hospital in the ICU, ER and as coordinator for the cardiac rehab. Working in your hometown hospital requires a high level of accountability as you are truly caring for your neighbors and friends. Good prep as I enter this new phase of offering my family home to others!

Both Rick & I have volunteered for various organizations in the county while balancing busy professional lives, raising two wonderful daughters and taking care of our own adjoining 6 acre property and home. We have poured our blood, sweat and tears into this house and land, just as my ancestors have done for years.

Why they chose this property

Mariner’s Legacy has been my family’s home for generations, and it holds a special place in my heart. The East River neighborhood is truly one of a kind. Its peaceful atmosphere, natural beauty, and rich history make it a magical place to live and share with others.

What I love most is the incredible connection to the water. The views from every room are breathtaking, and life here revolves around the river. I grew up sitting in cozy nooks with a good book, and now I enjoy sipping coffee on the wrap-around porch, watching ospreys soar overhead and search the waters below.

The sense of community here is remarkable. You can watch the local water men and women dock their boats in the adjacent creek with their fresh catch or see neighbors paddling along the river’s many creeks. There’s always an adventure waiting—whether it’s wading the shoreline to find Indian arrowheads or kayaking along this Blue Water Riverway.

This neighborhood isn’t just scenic—it’s deeply meaningful. It’s a place where my family has made memories for generations, hosting countless gatherings and celebrations. It’s where I’ve raised my children and watched my grandchildren play. Sharing this beautiful corner of the world with others is my way of continuing its legacy.

What makes this property unique

Mariner’s Legacy offers an experience unlike any other. In addition to the charming waterfront home, guests have access to a nearby property with a commercial-sized dock, boat ramp, and a protected cove with one slip to moor your own boat that we also own. Whether you’re boating, fishing, or crabbing with string and chicken necks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

What truly sets this property apart is the natural beauty and wildlife all around you. From the wrap-around porch, you can watch osprey couples hunt for fish each evening while you relax with your favorite drink. Herons and egrets gracefully comb the shoreline as the tide changes, creating a serene and picturesque scene.

For fishing enthusiasts, a public fishing pier is located directly across the river, making it easy to enjoy the area’s plentiful waters. The combination of water access, wildlife, and breathtaking views ensures a one-of-a-kind stay for our guests.

This version highlights the unique features and ties them together with an inviting and descriptive tone. Let me know if you’d like further tweaks!

Languages:

English

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