Bayfront Cottage · Fireplace · Kayaks

Ten chairs around a fire, the whole bay spread out in front of you, and absolutely nothing but stars overhead. This is the moment the whole trip is built around.
Rocky Shores Retreat from the water — large waterfront deck, private lawn, and kayak rack on Little Sturgeon Bay. Door County vacation rental with 180' of private shoreline.
Floor-to-ceiling stone, a fire burning, the bay framed on both sides, and a leather chair pulled right up to it. This fireplace is why people come back every fall.
Guests call it the best-stocked rental kitchen they've ever used — and they mean it. Cast iron, good knives, and real spices. You'll actually want to cook here.
The kids claimed this spot before they even unpacked — their own cottage, their own TV, their own adventure headquarters for the week. (Parents appreciate the separation just as much.)
All four kayaks are ready to launch right from the shore — paddle up the bay, hug the shoreline, watch pelicans take off ahead of you. Bring sunscreen. (we longer have the paddleboard)
Broad steps leading up to a deck that faces the water, with the fire pit and kayaks waiting in the yard below. The whole property flows toward the bay.
Jenga, dominoes, mancala, and a fire already going. No Wi-Fi password required for this kind of evening. The bay can wait until morning.
Vaulted knotty pine ceilings, a sectional big enough for the whole group, and the bay peeking in through the glass. This is where everyone ends up after a long day on the water.
The primary bedroom has everything you need to actually rest: a king bed, a thoughtfully designed space, and a bathroom right around the corner. This is where the trip planner sleeps well.
Two queen beds, crisp white bedding, and blue throws that look like they were made for a Door County cottage. The laundry is right there too — because a week-long trip should actually feel like a week.
A bird's-eye view of the floor plan at Rocky Shores. See the whole layout of the property from the waterfront, to the deck to the bunkhouse just steps away from the cottage.
Pull a chair up close, let the fire do its thing, and watch the last light disappear across the bay. This spot earns more five-star mentions than any room in the cottage.
Two structures, 180 feet of private shoreline, and nothing but trees and water between you and the open bay. This is what a true Door County retreat looks like from above.
Your Door County retreat starts the moment you pull in. Vibrant fall color, a private bay peeking through the trees, and a cottage that's already beckoning you to unwind.
Waterfront deck dining at Rocky Shores Retreat — wrought iron table and chairs with bay views through mature trees. Outdoor entertaining space, Door County WI, sleeps 10.
One open space where everything connects: kitchen to dining to living room to bay. Groups end up here together without even trying.
As soon as you enter the cottage, you're greeted by the stunning view of the water. The large windows allow natural light to flood the space, and the Door County stone fireplace adds a warm and inviting touch.
Coffee, your way — drip or single-serve — with the stone fireplace glowing in the background and the bay just past the window. Door County mornings don't get better than this.
Every shelf is labeled. Every item is there. This is a kitchen where family dinners actually happen — not one where you're hunting for a colander at 6pm.
Dinner for ten shouldn't require a scavenger hunt. Every plate, bowl, and dish is labeled and ready. Show up, cook, and eat together — that's the whole idea.
Everything within reach: pots, pans, spices, and a hallway that leads right to the bedrooms. This is a cottage that flows the way a group needs it to.
The sectional wraps around just right for movie nights, lazy mornings, and the kind of conversations that go until midnight. Named pillows and all — this place knows who it is.
Floor-to-ceiling stone, a fire burning, the bay framed on both sides, and a leather chair pulled right up to it. This fireplace is why people come back every fall.
One of the best features about this large leather chair and ottoman is its reading light, which makes it perfect for an indoor spot to enjoy your favorite book or magazine!
Choose a game from the bookcase for an evening of fun or for rainy days indoors.
The master bedroom has a king bed and water views. You can wake up feeling refreshed after sleeping in this cozy space with fresh linens! With device chargers by your side, you'll be ready to
The Master and Guest Bedrooms Feature Reading Lamps and USB Charger Alarm Clocks
The full bathroom features a heater just outside the shower.
Rocky Shores has a single but well appointed bathroom. You'll find ample body wash, shampoo and conditioner in the wall-mounted dispenser.
We always keep some spare amenities available at Rocky Shores in case you packed in rush.
The blue throws, the anchor lamp, the painting of boats on the wall — this room has a point of view. Someone thought carefully about what it should feel like to stay here.
A reading lamp in the guest bedroom and USB charger alarm clock to keep your devices ready to go.
Everything you need for a longer stay: a full-size LG stacked set, shelving for supplies, and hangers already on the rod. Packing lighter was actually an option here.
The kids claimed this space the moment they saw it. Bunk beds, their own sofa, and oars on the wall as a reminder of what's waiting outside. Adults get their quiet. Everyone wins.
It's not just a room — the bunkhouse is its own little world. Sofa, TV, bunk beds, and enough windows to never feel cut off from the bay outside. Kids will never want to leave.
The expansive deck is the perfect place for the whole family to enjoy the views!
When we arrived, the space felt cozy and welcoming right away. The kitchen was fully stocked… Firewood was even provided… the deer wandered right up to the deck — such a fun surprise!
The deck is the perfect place to enjoy summer dinner and drinks with loved ones or to watch the boats and birds on the water. You get the best of both sunrises and sunsets!
Four kayaks. The rack is right there, the bay is right there, and the only decision is who gets the green one.
The large deck overlooking the water is the most relaxing spot at Rocky Shores. You'll find ample seating for the whole family and it's a great spot for an outdoor breakfast, dinner or just a great place to spend time until the lights in the evening.
Broad steps leading up to a deck that faces the water, with the fire pit and kayaks waiting in the yard below. The whole property flows toward the bay.
Drop your bags, step outside, and realize you're fifty feet from the bay. The covered entry, grill, and paver patio make this feel less like a rental and more like yours.
The living room is the perfect spot to catch up on reading or playing games with friends. A large couch, an easy chair and fireplace make this space cozy while you're here!
Choose a game from the bookcase for an evening of fun or for rainy days indoors.
The farmhouse table fits eight comfortably, the bay is right outside the window, and dinner conversations here tend to go later than planned. That's the point.
A private stretch of bay with everything you need to stay on it: kayaks, a fire pit, and a deck built for long evenings. Rocky Shores Retreat, Door County.

47

Bayfront Cottage · Fireplace · Kayaks

10 Guests
3 Bedrooms
1 Bathrooms
House
DV
Verified

Hosted by Dana V.

Member since January 2026

About this property

Rocky Shores Retreat — A Classic Waterfront Door County Escape
Perched on 180 feet of private shoreline on Little Sturgeon Bay, Rocky Shores Retreat is the kind of Door County cottage guests come back to year after year. Paddle out in kayaks, gather around the bayfront fire pit, cook a full family meal in one of the best-stocked kitchens you’ll find in any rental — and do it all without leaving the property.
With room for 10 and an open layout built for gathering, it's a natural fit for birthdays, girls' trips, and milestone celebrations — the deck and fire pit do the rest.
Whether you’re here for sunny summer lake days or the spectacular colors of a Door County fall, the setting delivers. Tucked down a quiet private road yet just 15–20 minutes from Sturgeon Bay, you get true waterfront seclusion without giving up convenience.
Your Own Private Waterfront Step outside and you’re on the bay. Summer means swimming, shoreline exploring, and kayaking right from the property (4 kayaks included). Fall brings golden light over the water, migrating birds, and some of the most peaceful mornings you’ll find anywhere. Morning coffee on the waterfront deck — with sunrise over the bay — is a year-round highlight.
🚣 Kayaks, Fire Pit & Outdoor Living (Late spring–early fall) This property is built for time outside: • 4 kayaks included for paddling the bay • Bayfront fire pit with firewood provided — perfect for s’mores, stargazing, or crisp fall evenings • Large grassy yard for cornhole, frisbee, and kid-friendly games • Hammock tucked among the cedars • Plenty of seating for gathering, relaxing, and reconnecting
Wildlife sightings are common — deer, wild turkeys, eagles, and cormorants make regular appearances.
A Kitchen Guests Actually Rave About This isn’t your typical rental kitchen. Nearly every review calls it out: • High-quality cookware (guests love the pans) • Spices, condiments, and cooking essentials already stocked • Full-size appliances with plenty of prep space • Coffee station ready to go • Weber grill steps from the kitchen door
Ideal for big family dinners, grilling fresh catch, or putting together a spread with local favorites from Marchant’s Grocery or Sunflower Bakery.
🛌 Bedroom Layout + Bonus Bunk House (Sleeps up to 10)
Primary Bedroom — King Bed • Plush king bed with hotel-quality linens • Ceiling fan • Quiet location for restful sleep
Guest Bedroom — Two Queen Beds • Ideal for families or groups • Washer & dryer conveniently located in-room • Ceiling fan
Detached Bunk House (Kid’s Cottage) A huge guest favorite — especially for kids and teens: • Sleeps up to 5 • Smart TV • Mini fridge + freezer • Heating & AC • Ceiling fan • Bay views (Note: No bathroom in the bunk house)
Family-Friendly Extras
Traveling with little ones? We’ve got you covered: • Crib / Pack ’n Play available • Plenty of space for kids to play indoors and out • A bunk house that kids absolutely love
Comfortable, Lived-In, Thoughtfully Set Up
Classic Door County charm with the comforts that matter: • Bright living space with big bay windows • Indoor wood-burning stone fireplace (open late Oct–Apr — a fall bonus!) • Smart TV + game console for movie and game nights • Books and board games for unplugged evenings • Open layout great for meals, games, and conversation • High-speed Starlink Wi-Fi for streaming or remote work • Self check-in for easy, stress-free arrivals
Bathroom & Essentials
Thoughtfully stocked with: • Shampoo, conditioner & body wash • Extra towels • Space heater near shower • Safety features including smoke alarms and first aid kit
🌳 Outdoor Spaces That Make the Stay
Waterfront Deck Overlooks the entire bay with partial cedar shade, outdoor lighting, and seating for coffee, cocktails, and sunset watching.
Fire Pit Area Adirondack chairs, firewood included — unbeatable for fall nights and summer stargazing.
Front Patio + Grill Wind-sheltered brick patio with Weber grill steps from the kitchen.
✪ 2026 Water Levels Water levels in Little Sturgeon Bay are lower than in recent years. Kayaks are still usable, though guests may need to walk a bit farther across shoreline rocks to reach adequate depth.
📍 Peaceful Yet Easy to Get To • ~15–20 minutes to downtown Sturgeon Bay • Easy access to beaches, wineries, parks, and golf • Quiet private road with minimal traffic • Fall bonus: close to orchard tours, harvest festivals, and fall color drives
What Guests Say • “They thought of everything” • Stunning waterfront views and sunsets • Spotless, extremely clean home • One of the best-stocked kitchens they’ve used in a rental • Comfortable beds, quality linens • Kids LOVE the bunk house • Peaceful and private, but easy to reach everything
Book Your Door County Getaway Summer here means lake days, kayaking, and sunset campfires. Fall means fireplace evenings, golden light on the bay, and Door County at its most beautiful. Either way, Rocky Shores Retreat is the kind of place guests don’t want to leave — and keep coming back to.
Dates book quickly. Reserve your stay today.

  • Common Amenities

    • Air conditioning
    • Hair dryer
    • Kitchen
    • Wireless Internet

  • Outdoor

    • BBQ grill
    • Patio or balcony

  • Kitchen

    • Coffee maker
    • Dishwasher
    • Microwave
    • Oven
    • Refrigerator
    • Stove
    • Toaster

Select check-in date

Minimum stay: 3 nights

SuMoTuWeThFrSa
SuMoTuWeThFrSa

Location

Meet the host

D

Hosted by Dana Vanden Heuvel

Member since January 20, 2026

Property Types

  • Cottage
  • House

Important house rules & info

Check In

Check in after 4:00 PM

Check Out

Check out before 10:00 AM

Damage & incidentals

You will be responsible for any damage to the rental property caused by you or your party during your stay.

Cancellation Policy

Moderate

Guests can cancel up to 5 days before check-in and receive a full refund.

More Info

Important information

Children: Not AllowedPets: Not AllowedEvents: Not AllowedSmoking: Not AllowedGuests are required to sign a Rental Agreement.A security deposit of $300 is required.Food is not allowed in any bedrooms. Quiet time is from 11 p.m to 8 a.m.

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