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Classic Waterfront Cottage at Hawks Nest Beach

Photo gallery for Classic Waterfront Cottage at Hawks Nest Beach

View from the porch at sunset.
Welcome to the Sandtrap.
Outdoor shower and grills.
The Sandtrap is located at Hawks Nest Beach.
Screened in front porch with dining table.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 9111.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Beach view
  • Parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Dryer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Washer

Explore the area

Map
Old Lyme, CT
  • Rocky Neck State Park
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Lyme Academy of Fine Arts
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Goose Island
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • New London, CT (GON-Groton - New London)
    ‪27 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 9)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 4

3 Single Beds

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Toilet

Bathroom 3

Outdoor shower

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Outdoor shower
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Dining area

About this property

Classic Waterfront Cottage at Hawks Nest Beach

This classic Beach Cottage (the “Sandtrap”) built in 1956, with own private beach on Long Island Sound, is fully updated while maintaining its historical roots. Old Lyme Land Trust protected wetlands, with views of occupied osprey nests, great white herons and other native birds, adjoin the cottage’s private parking space. As part of Hawk’s Nest Beach community, you can walk to Garvin’s Store, where daily free activities for kids are organized, and play tennis or horseshoes on the courts.

The Sandtrap has plenty of room for family and guests with five parking spaces. Fully furnished kitchen, grill (including propane tank), beach chairs and umbrellas, linens, bath and beach towels, kids' beach toys, boogie boards and inflatables, huge collection of beach reading, classic toys, games and puzzles provided. You do not need to bring any of the above items: they are there. No television but free Wi-Fi Internet access

The large screened-in front porch, with chaise lounges, dining table and ocean views up and down the beach is a favorite location to enjoy your morning coffee. At high tide the front porch is less than 50' from the water. The kitchen is part of the “great room” with views directly on the water. A very large fireplace makes for cozy evenings when it is cool or for marshmallow toasting and when it’s hot the kitchen/dining/living area is fully air-conditioned.

There is a master bedroom with a queen bed on the first floor (air-conditioned) and three bedrooms on the second floor, two with full size beds. The third bedroom has three twin beds. The upstairs bedrooms have ceiling fans and are open to the eaves (those requiring complete privacy should use the master bedroom). One and a half baths plus hot water enclosed outdoor shower to wash away the sea salt after a dip in the Sound. There is a washer/dryer in the cottage.

Free family activities starting at Garvin’s store include a marine biologist's weekly visit to discuss and touch our local sea life. Kids events include, a talent show at the store, lollipop hunts, scavenger hunts, bonfires, art creations, sand castle contests, tie-dye tee shirts, movies on the beach, crabbing contest, edible art and much more. You can pick up beach necessities–coffee, ice cream, milk, ice–and tee shirts, beach wear and Hawk’s Nest Beach souvenirs as well

Great local restaurants, renowned art galleries and museums featuring the historic Old Lyme school of American impressionism, both boutique and outlet shopping, spas, golf, antiquing, live theater, local farmers’ markets and much more are very nearby. Cottage owners, who live only 5 minutes away, provide a personalized guide, with maps, to the shoreline’s many attractions.

Property manager

John Heckman

Languages

English, French, German

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 9:30 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: limit 1 total
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Old Lyme

Located in Old Lyme, this cottage is on the beach. Ocean Beach Park and New London Ferry Dock are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda. The Book Barn and Childrens Museum of Southeastern Connecticut are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Old Lyme, CT

What's nearby

  • Rocky Neck State Park - 7 min drive - 5.0 km
  • Lyme Academy of Fine Arts - 9 min drive - 4.7 km
  • Goose Island - 13 min drive - 10.4 km
  • Harvey's Beach - 21 min drive - 16.6 km
  • Ocean Beach Park - 36 min drive - 28.5 km

Getting around

  • Old Saybrook Station - 13 min drive
  • New London, CT (GON-Groton - New London) - 27 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Lyme Tavern Cafe - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪James Farmacy Organic Cafe - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Coffees Country Market - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Cocotte - ‬14 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Classic Waterfront Cottage at Hawks Nest Beach pet-friendly?

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

What time is check-in at Classic Waterfront Cottage at Hawks Nest Beach?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Classic Waterfront Cottage at Hawks Nest Beach?

Checkout is at 9:30 AM.

Where is Classic Waterfront Cottage at Hawks Nest Beach located?

Nestled on the beach, this Old Lyme cottage is 2.8 mi (4.6 km) from Lyme Academy of Fine Arts and 2.9 mi (4.7 km) from Rocky Neck State Park. Rocky Neck State Beach and Giants Neck Beach are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.8

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. 22 out of 27 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 27 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 27 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 27 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 27 reviews

8.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

8/10 Good

Kevin B.

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

Beach stay

Very accurate description. Very rustic cottage but very functionable and comfortable. With twin toddlers there was no worry of them damaging anything. Calm waters wich was excellent for youngchildren.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

James G.

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

Great Stay

This was our fourth year staying at this house and, as always, it was phenomenal. We love staying here because the location is perfect, the house is very well equipped, it's very clean and spacious, and the owners are wonderful. We always look forward to our stay at the sand trip.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Donna S.

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

Hawks Nest

We had a wonderful week on the beach this cottage had everything you need from boggie boards to towels and cookware. We will definitely be back
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Julie F.

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

Had a great stay!

We loved the view from the porch and the beach. It can’t get much better than that. Had to get used to no TV, but wifi helped. Would definitely stay again and John was wonderful.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Victoria N.

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

Perfect beach house

This beach house is one of the most equipped rentals at Hawk’s Nest Beach . John was very kind to let us arrive an hour earlier and we were amazed that he provided linens , beach towels , bath towels , comfortable beach chairs , a pop up tent , beach toys , inflatable tubes and boogie boards , books , games and puzzles . The kitchen was stocked as well . The jetty was fun for all to go fishing and crabbing . A very enjoyable vacation on your own private beach . We would love to rent it again next summer !!!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

8/10 Good

Kelly B.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness

Perfect location!

You couldn’t ask for a better location on this private beach! Cottage is well- stocked, including everything you need for the kitchen and the beach. John is very responsive and accessible.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

James G.

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

Great House

The Sand Trap is a great place to stay at the beach. The house is right on the water and we'll equipped for fun, cooking, and sleeping. This was our third stay at the Sand Trap and we've loved it each time
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

8/10 Good

Donna B.

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

Beach front cottage was amazing

Had a relaxing week living the cottage right on the beach life. Screened in porch was everyone's favorite location in the house. Cottage was well equipped. Just had to open the door and the vacation started
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

8/10 Good

Scott R.

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

Family vacation

Great location The house is very well stocked The owner was very accommodating
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Barbara G.

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

It was great to be right on the beach. The property had everything we needed.

Prompt replies to questions.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ann F.

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

Great location

Rustic house but charming, Owner was kind, responsive and helpful. Towels and sheets a bonus and helped justify cost. Location and porch great.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

James G.

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

Relaxing Getaway

John's house is one of the most well-equipped rentals at which I've ever stayed. All the sheets, linens, towels, kitchen equipment, beach chairs, beach toys, beachnt, etc. were all already in the house. The house is right on the beach with access to your own private beach. It's a very small community with tons of friendly people. We absolutely loved our stay and would recommend it to everyone.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

James G.

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

Fabulous House

We absolutely loved the house. John's house was the most well-equipped rental house we have ever gotten. There was ample kitchen supplies, beach chairs, a huge number of beach towels, blankets, extra sheets, etc. The house was in a great location and right on the beach. We highly recommend this house!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

8/10 Good

Eleanor S., Hartford, Ct, USA

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Casual beach house

Low key home with lots of books for summer reading. Fully equipped with necessaries. This year it was VERY hot upstairs so bring your own fans to help cool it down. Air conditioning downstairs a plus. Nice beach community with a child’s dream of a country store.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Theresa G.

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

Sandtrap - Old Lyme

We were met by Mr. Heckman when we got to the Sandtrap. We were able to get in earlier than we anticipated! The house was spotless and contained everything you could need for vacation, including a vacation binder with all the rules, history of the house and places to go and eat. There were coffee makers (regular and Keurig), a crockpot, pots and pans, dishes, linens, bath and beach towels. They were fully stocked with cleaners and essentials such as toilet paper and papertowels. They had plenty of beach chairs and sand toys as well. Truly a family style beach house. We had a wonderful time and I would highly recommend the Sandtrap if you are looking for a super host and wonderful family vacation!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Eleanor S., Hartford, Ct, USA

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

Beachy family oriented home

This casual home comes complete with linens,towels, basic supplies. It is not fancy but if you enjoy cool breezes off the ocean, open porch dining for several families, and books galore, you will enjoy this house. Our multi generational family used it as the center of our communal activities and loved living the simple beach life for a week.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Barry M.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect location

The house itself is a bit older and worn, but everything was in working order and we had a great stay. John was responsive and helpful. Being right on a private beach was wonderful (bring water shoes as there are a lot of rocks/shells) and the little neighborhood was great for letting the kids go out and explore by themselves.
Stayed 14 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Holly B.

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

Great!!

Love this cottage

10/10 Excellent

karen a.

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

Great location! Right on the beach with beautiful views! Lots of room for family and guests!

Didn't need to bring much at all! House is equipped with pretty much everything. Beach chairs, boogie boards and umbrellas are all right there. Beach towels, blankets and a large canopy tent outside for when you don't want to be in direct sun. Vey quiet and relaxing!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Eleanor S., Hartford, Ct, USA

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

Great beach bungalow

Casual beachfront home that always has a breeze on the first floor. AC is available in first floor BR & LR but we haven’t used it because of how well the ocean breezes flow through the porch and LR/kitchen. Super casual kitchen is small but adequate. Screened in porch looks out on the ocean - lovely place to read & have coffee in the am or have a casual dinner at the long table with benches. We had 14 adults and 2 kids one night and didn’t feel crowded at all. Great to have linens & towels supplied. Beach umbrellas, chairs, sand toys there too. If you are a book lover it’s got lots to satisfy your taste. This is not a super modern home but it is an old fashioned bungalow with the necessary appliances to cook and party without fuss. It is located in Hawks Nest Beach, a family friendly place to enjoy the CT shore.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Holly B.

Love this beach

Great cottage!! Wonderful that most everything is included. John the owner is fantastic to deal with!! I can't wait to come back next year!!
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2018

10/10 Excellent

Eleanor S., Hartford, Ct, USA

Perfect CT beach house

The house is perfect for the CT shore. Simple, rustic with TONS of books, games, beach toys. Totally furnished with linen and towels and they did the small stuff like supplying hand soap in the bathrooms. Kitchen stuff was adequate but I probably would bring more stuff next year to supplement. NO TV - just the simple pleasures of life and friends to enjoy the ocean and tranquility. WiFi was good. The owner is very informative and helpful. He supplied a book of information about the house, the area and sundries. We never have had an owner go to such lengths to help their renters. We loved it. We are delighted that we discovered such a comfortable gem.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Linda B., Southbury, Connecticut

Very cute rustic cabin!

Had a great time! Being in a house on the water was even better than I had expected. Neighborhood was very kid and dog friendly!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Catherine P.

We had a great time!

This is the second year that we have rented the home for a 3-generation family vacation. The home is clean and comfortable. The host is friendly and accommodating. We find it homey and our vacation was relaxing. We even had our week's groceries delivered the day we arrived so we could spend the maximum time in the sand and enjoying the views. We enjoy the proximity to the water and the beach is clean; we spent most of our waking hours out there. My 3-year-old niece can play safely under the tent and in the water (with an adult) - it's one of her favorite places and both last year and this year she talks about it long after the vacation is over. My mom suffers from dementia and normally a new place makes her anxious but after a day even she was relaxed - playing in the sand, doing puzzles, and regularly telling us how much she loved being there. We have loved all the memories we've made in this home and on this beach.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Janine P.

Cozy and rustic cottage just steps from the ocean...stunning view!

The cottage was cozy and quaint and equipped with everything you need for your beach vacation. Just steps from the water and the views and sounds of the ocean were breathtaking. We had four young children with us and there was always something for them to do in the Hawks Nest community. John, the owner was very responsive and accommodating. It was definitely an unforgettable week!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2017

About the host

Hosted by John Heckman

Host profile image
Your hosts John Heckman and his wife Helen Cantrell live 5 minutes away in the historic village of Old Lyme. Long-time shoreline residents, they are immediately available to resolve any problems and answer your questions about the area. John is a former professor of comparative literature and current computer consultant; Helen is a painter and printmaker who shows her art throughout the Northeast. A number of her works are on the cottage walls.

Why they chose this property

Our family has been coming to Hawks’ Nest Beach for over 100 years. John’s grandfather built this cottage in 1956; it has been our family beach cottage ever since, with generations of children and parents enjoying it every season. Decades of beloved beach reading and games await you, with a big tent on the beach and fluffy beach towels and chairs. Indoors you have air conditioning when it’s hot, and a wood-burning fireplace for coziness when it’s chilly. We have provided brochures on local attractions, as well as our own personal guide to the area including maps, arts, antiques, fine dining, sports and other features we think you will enjoy.

What makes this property unique

Hawks’ Nest Beach is a real old-fashioned family beach community with traditions going back generations—children still walk up and down the beach road every weekend morning selling donuts out of an old red wagon; you can still see ospreys raising their young out of raised nests across the road; small inflatable boats and sailfish launch directly out from the beach into the Sound; and fisherman still go out on the ends of the jettys (and sometimes bring back fish!).

Languages:

English, French, German