This is our second stay at the Breakells’ beautiful house, and if we don’t end up purchasing our own place, we will definitely continue to be repeat renters at this cottage.

The décor of the house is tasteful and soothing, and one of our favorite aspects is that you truly feel you are in a home rather than a rental unit that’s identical to 20 others. The layout affords bedrooms that are spread out, each having its own bathroom. A television room and a sunroom offer room to spread out for residents. There is a huge dining table as well as a smaller cafe table in the sunroom. No need to bring hairdryers, kitchen utensils or plates or glasses, extra blankets—it’s all there. Just remember your sheets and towels! We were also impressed by the personal library of books on boating, fishing, and pleasure novels.

For those unfamiliar with Beaufort and the barrier islands, I can’t stress enough how ideal this spot is. The house is directly on Taylor Creek with no road in between the house and dock as you tend to find along a good deal of Front Street. Every day we watched the horses on Carrot Island, as well as dolphins some mornings. There is an unsurpassed view of the ocean and Shackleford Banks from the rooftop deck, but also--especially when it’s windy and the waves are breaking—from areas on the back porch and sunroom as you look through the dunes of Carrot Island. We had two days of rain, but we relished that time in the house reading and enjoying the view.

There is a carport with tandem parking for two vehicles, as well as additional parking on the front lawn. Charcoal grill, wonderful back porch with rockers surrounded by raspberry hydrangeas, friendly neighbors when we saw them. Please be advised that the current of Taylor Creek is quite strong, so I’d not recommend swimming for children; however, it is excellent for kayaking! Stan is communicative and efficient with responding to any questions you might have.

Many thanks again to the Breakells!