Soundfront Cottage In the Water - One of a Kind Sunsets - Dock and 3 Decks - Vacation rental home in Nags Head, NC

Stinson Ranch — Soundfront Cottage in the Water | One-of-a-Kind Sunsets
Step into a really rare Outer Banks experience. Stinson Ranch is constructed directly in the Roanoke Sound, offering water in every direction, memorable sunsets, and calm, shallow water right below the home. As far as we know, it’s the only bungalow on the Outer Banks where you can stay in the water.
Originally constructed in the early 1900s and thoughtfully rebuilt after Hurricane Irene, the bungalow preserves classic Old Nags Head appeal while offering modern amenities for a calming stay.

The Space

The main level features an open living and kitchen area with sound vistas throughout, plus:

Bedroom 1: Double bed
Bedroom 2: Two twin beds
Full bathroom

The upstairs loft includes:

Queen bed + double bed
Half bath
Five windows overlooking the sound
Private loft deck with sweeping vistas

Three Decks Over the Water
One of the bungalow’s most adored features is its three-deck layout:
Main soundfront deck: Ideal for outdoor meals at the picnic table, sunsets, and watching boats and kite surfers pass

Loft deck: Quiet, elevated spot for morning coffee and stargazing

Under-home deck: A shaded, water-level hangout strung with bistro lights — ideal for relaxing, supervising kids in the shallow water, or appreciating evenings by the sound

A water-level platform makes it painless to launch kayaks or paddleboards, step directly into the sound, or simply sit with your feet in the water.

Water, Wildlife & Relaxation
The sound here is typically calm and shallow (often around two feet deep near the home), making it ideal for floating, wading, and playing. A close by sandbar creates a natural spot for paddle games or relaxing in the water.

Guests often spot ducks close by in the mornings, an egret fishing at nighttime under the deck light, and an osprey nest just south of the bungalow during nesting season.
Local outfitters offer delivery and pickup of kayaks, paddleboards, and other water sports equipment directly to the bungalow.

Conveniences
Totally equipped kitchen
WiFi
Intelligent TVs
Gas fireplace (seasonal)
Washer & dryer
Outdoor shower platform
Linens included
Parking for three cars
No smoking/vaping

Location
Centrally located in Nags Head near:
Jockey’s Ridge
Jennette’s Pier
Manteo waterfront
Eateries, stores, and beach access

A Rare Outer Banks Stay
Stinson Ranch is peaceful, playful, and unlike anywhere else on the Outer Banks. Whether you’re paddling, floating, watching wildlife, or soaking in the sunset, this is a place to really slow down and appreciate being on the water.