Rocky Shores Retreat Waterfront Cottage with a View, Kayaks, and More…

  • 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.
    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.
    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.
  • 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.
    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.
    Jenga, dominoes, mancala, and a fire already going. No Wi-Fi password required for this kind of evening. The bay can wait until morning.
  • 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.
    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.
  • 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.
    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.
  • 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)
    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)
  • 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.
    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.
    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.
    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.
    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.
  • 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.
    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.
  • 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.
    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.
    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.
    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.
  • 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.)
    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.)
  • One open space where everything connects: kitchen to dining to living room to bay. Groups end up here together without even trying.
    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.
    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.
    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.
    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.
    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.
    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.
    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.
    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!
    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.
    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 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 Master and Guest Bedrooms Feature Reading Lamps and USB Charger Alarm Clocks
  • The full bathroom features a heater just outside the shower.
    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.
    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.
    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.
    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.
    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.
    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.
    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.
    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!
    The expansive deck is the perfect place for the whole family to enjoy the views!
  • 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!
    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.
    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.
    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.
    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.
    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!
    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.
    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.
    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.
    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.
$177-908/night
3 Bedrooms • 1 Bath • Sleeps 1-10
Internet Fireplace Lakefront (more...)

☀️ Summer at Rocky Shores Retreat — A Classic Waterfront Door County Escape

Rocky Shores Retreat truly comes alive in summer. Set on 180 feet of private shoreline on Little Sturgeon Bay, this classic Door County cottage is a guest favorite for kayaking, swimming, fireside sunsets, and laid-back lake days. Guests consistently rave about the peaceful setting, immaculate cleanliness, exceptionally stocked kitchen, and unforgettable water views.

Tucked away on a quiet private road—yet just 15–20 minutes from Sturgeon Bay—Rocky Shores offers the perfect balance of true waterfront seclusion and Door County convenience.

🌊 Waterfront Living at Its Best

With expansive shoreline and calm bay waters, summer days are effortless:

  • Kayaking directly from the property
  • Swimming and shoreline exploring
  • Yard games, hammock naps, and sun lounging
  • Morning coffee with sunrise over the bay
  • Golden-hour sunsets and star-filled nights

Guests often mention that the outdoor space alone makes the stay unforgettable.

🚣 Kayaks, Yard Games & Outdoor Fun

(Available late spring–early fall)

Rocky Shores is designed for outdoor living:

  • 4 kayaks included
  • Large grassy yard for cornhole, frisbee, and games
  • Hammock tucked among cedar trees
  • Bayfront fire pit with firewood provided
  • Plenty of seating for relaxing, gathering, and reconnecting

Wildlife sightings—deer, turkeys, eagles, and cormorants—are common and often mentioned in reviews.

☀️ Wake Up to Sunrises, Wind Down with Sunsets

Start your day on the expansive waterfront deck with coffee as the bay wakes up. Spend afternoons on the water or exploring Door County, then gather around the fire pit at night for s’mores, stories, and glowing sunset skies.

This is the kind of place guests describe as “peaceful, calming, and impossible to rush.”

✪ Designed for Comfortable Summer Stays

Inside, the cottage blends classic Door County charm with modern comfort:

  • Bright living space with big bay windows
  • Comfortable seating for groups and families
  • Smart TV for movie nights after long days outside
  • Open layout perfect for games, meals, and conversation

Guests frequently say the home feels cozy yet spacious, spotless, and thoughtfully arranged.

🍽 One of the Best-Stocked Kitchens Guests Have Ever Used

A standout feature in nearly every review:

  • High-quality cookware (guests love the pans!)
  • Spices, condiments, and cooking essentials
  • Coffee station
  • Full-size appliances and ample prep space
  • Easy access to the outdoor Weber grill

Perfect for cooking family meals, grilling fresh fish, or enjoying local favorites from Marchant’s Grocery or Sunflower Bakery.

🛌 Bedroom Layout + Bonus Bunk House

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 located in-room for convenience

Detached Bunk House (Kid’s Cottage)
A guest favorite—especially for kids and teens:

  • Sleeps up to 5
  • Smart TV
  • Mini fridge + freezer
  • Heating & AC
  • Bay views
    (Note: No bathroom in the bunk house)

🚿 Bathroom & Essentials

  • Shampoo, conditioner & body wash provided
  • Extra towels
  • Space heater near shower
  • Thoughtfully stocked for easy family mornings

🌳 Outdoor Space Guests Rave About

Waterfront Deck

  • Overlooks the entire bay
  • Partial cedar shade
  • Seating for coffee, cocktails, and sunset watching
  • Outdoor lighting for evenings

Fire Pit Area

  • Adirondack chairs
  • Firewood included
  • Perfect for s’mores and stargazing

Front Patio + Grill

  • Wind-sheltered brick patio
  • 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 Convenient Location

  • ~15–20 minutes to downtown Sturgeon Bay
  • Easy access to beaches, wineries, parks, and golf
  • Quiet, private road with minimal traffic

Guests love having a true retreat that’s still an easy drive to Door County highlights.

🌞 Why Guests Love Rocky Shores Retreat

(Curated from Rocky Shores reviews)

  • Stunning waterfront views and sunsets
  • Spotless, extremely clean home
  • Exceptionally stocked, organized kitchen
  • Comfortable beds with quality linens
  • Thoughtful amenities — “they thought of everything”
  • Amazing outdoor space with kayaks, fire pit, and yard
  • Kids LOVE the bunk house
  • Peaceful, private setting with easy access to town
  • Stress-free stay with excellent communication and guidebook

🌊 Your Door County Summer Starts Here

If you’re looking for a classic waterfront cottage, space to spread out, and the kind of peaceful summer setting guests return to year after year—Rocky Shores Retreat is it.

Summer dates book quickly. Reserve your stay today.

 

Availability

About the Owner

We are Dana & Timothea and we live and work in Green Bay, but have been coming to Door County for our whole lives. We wanted to share our love for the area with our guests by opening Rocky Shores Retreat!

Location

Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin

Amenities

Property Type Cottage
Accommodation Entire Home
Check-In A keypad is available 24 hours a day to provide entry for guests
House Rules
  • Maximum occupancy: 10
  • Children welcome
  • Infants welcome
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Wheelchair inaccessible
  • Minimum age of primary renter: 21
  • Pets not allowed
Setting & View
  • Water View
  • Lake
  • Lakefront
  • Lake View
  • Rural
  • Town
  • Waterfront
  • Lake Access
General
  • Internet / Wifi
  • Fireplace
  • Air Conditioning
  • Central Heating
  • Linens Provided
  • Towels Provided
  • Washing Machine
  • Clothes Dryer
  • Hot Water
  • Iron & Board
  • Basic Soaps
  • Paper Towels
  • Shampoo
  • Extra Pillows & Blankets
  • Body Soap
  • Hair Conditioner
  • Shower Gel
  • Clothing Storage (closet or wardrobe)
  • Clothes Drying Rack
  • Portable Fans
Kitchen
  • Kitchen
  • Refrigerator
  • Stove
  • Oven
  • Microwave
  • Dishwasher
  • Dishes & Utensils
  • Spices/Pantry Items
  • Coffee Maker
  • Toaster
  • Freezer
  • Blender
  • Kettle
  • Pots & Pans
  • Dining Table
  • Baking Sheet
  • Barbeque/Grill Utensils
  • Coffee
  • Mini Fridge
  • Rice Maker
  • Wine Glasses
Bathrooms 1 Bath
  • Bathroom 1 – Combination Tub/Shower, Shower, Toilet
Sleeping Arrangements 3 Bedrooms, sleeps 1-10
  • Master Bedroom – 1 King Bed
  • Guest Bedroom – 2 Queen Beds
  • Bunk House – 1 Bunk Bed, 1 Sleeper Sofa
Entertainment
  • Television
  • Games/Board Games
  • Books
  • Smart TV
Family
  • Pack N Play/Travel Crib
  • Room Darkening Shades
Outdoor
  • Outdoor Grill
  • Deck/Patio (uncovered)
  • Lawn/Garden
  • Kayak/Canoe
  • Water Sports Gear
  • Private Yard
  • Fire Pit
  • Play Area
  • Outdoor Dining
  • Outdoor Seating
  • Hammock
Vehicles
  • Free Parking
Theme
  • Family
  • Romantic
  • Tourist Attractions
Attractions
  • Bay/Sound
  • Health/Beauty Spa
  • Marina
  • Museums
  • Winery Tours
Leisure
  • Antiquing
  • Bird Watching
  • Eco Tourism
  • Horseback Riding
  • Paddle Boating
  • Sledding
  • Boating
  • Shopping
  • Wildlife Viewing
  • Water Sports
Sports & Adventure
  • Cycling
  • Cross Country Skiing
  • Fishing
  • Bay/Sound Fishing
  • Freshwater Fishing
  • Golf
  • Hiking
  • Hunting
  • Jet Skiing
  • Kayaking
  • Mountain Biking
  • Pier Fishing
  • Sailing
  • Skiing
  • Water Skiing
  • Snorkeling/Diving
  • Snowmobiling
  • Swimming
  • Wind Surfing
Safety
  • Carbon Monoxide Detector
  • Deadbolt Lock
  • Fire Emergency Contact
  • Fire Extinguisher
  • First Aid Kit
  • Medical Emergency Contact
  • Exterior Lighting
  • Police Emergency Contact
  • Smoke Detector
  • Enhanced Cleaning Practices
  • Cleaning Disinfection
  • Common Surface Disinfectant Cleaned
  • Linens High Temp Wash
Expectations
  • Requires Stairs
  • Cameras/Surveillance
  • Near Lake, River, or Water Body
Accessibility
  • Single Level Home

Registration

Registration Number
39-56-2540-00

Rates

Season Rate
Default
1/1 - 12/31
Night
$197 - $1,009
Weekend Night
$300 - $861
Weekly
$1,633 to $4,729
Monthly
$7,049 to $20,376

Cancellation Policy: One hundred percent (100.00%) of the total booking charges will be refunded if the cancellation is made more than 60 days prior to the arrival date of the reservation. Fifty percent (50.00%) of the total booking charges will be refunded if the cancellation is made more than 14 days prior to the arrival date of the reservation. For cancellations made within 14 days prior to the arrival date, no refund will be issued.

We use dynamic pricing, so each night is priced differently depending on seasonality, day of the week, local events, etc. Please first select your dates and then you will see the total price. In general, summer prices are higher, with weeknights starting at around $300 plus taxes and cleaning fee while weekend nights start around $400 and go up from there. Winter prices start around $225 for weeknights and $300 for weekends.

Guest Reviews