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Watermen's Retreat

Experience top-rated comfort at Watermen's Retreat in Waves, NC. LGBTQ+ friendly resort hotel with outstanding guest reviews and prime location on NC Hwy 12.

25706 North Carolina Hwy 12, Waves, NC 27982, United States View on map
9.8/10
Exceptional Based on 265 recent guest reviews
What recent guests emphasize

Outstanding Comfort and Watersport Experience

Recent guests highlight the exceptional comfort of the accommodations, the welcoming and friendly staff, and excellent access to watersports. The well-equipped cabanas and cottages, combined with great amenities and a relaxed atmosphere, make for an enjoyable stay ideal for families and watersport enthusiasts alike.

Guests often praise

  • Clean, spacious, and comfortable accommodations with fully stocked kitchens and cozy beds.
  • Friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable staff providing easy check-in and excellent watersport instruction.
  • Convenient on-site amenities including a charcoal grill, restaurant with good food, and a well-stocked retail shop.
  • Beautiful location offering scenic sunsets over the sound and quick access to the beach.
  • Electric vehicle charging station appreciated by environmentally conscious guests.

Worth knowing

  • The property caters well to watersport beginners and experts, with expert coaching available but instructors may change due to availability.
  • Many guests visit multiple times, especially families and small groups, indicating strong repeat appeal.
  • On-site watersports and activities are a major draw, although some visitors prefer to relax and enjoy the scenery instead.
  • The property is LGBTQ+ friendly, welcoming diverse groups of travelers.
  • No notable drawbacks mentioned; reviews consistently positive but seasonal off-peak stays are favored by some.

Best for

  • Watersport enthusiasts seeking quality instruction and diverse activities on the water.
  • Families and small groups looking for spacious, fully equipped accommodations close to the beach.
  • Travelers wanting a peaceful retreat with beautiful natural surroundings and friendly community atmosphere.
  • LGBTQ+ guests seeking an inclusive and welcoming environment.
  • Those interested in combining relaxation with recreational opportunities such as wingfoiling and kiteboarding.
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About this property

Welcome to Watermen's Retreat

Watermen's Retreat is a highly rated 4.9-star hotel and resort located at 25706 North Carolina Hwy 12 in Waves, NC. Situated on the water's edge, the property offers a quiet and comfortable setting ideal for those seeking relaxation alongside water sports activities. The accommodations, including spacious cabanas and standalone cottages like The Hideout, provide well-equipped kitchens and cozy beds, meeting the needs of small families or groups.

The resort is known for its straightforward check-in process and attentive staff, praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. Guests have appreciated the availability of watersports instruction and equipment rentals on site, making it a fitting destination for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts. Dining options are conveniently located within the property, offering easy access to meals without leaving the premises.

The atmosphere is welcoming and inclusive, with a noted LGBTQ+ friendly environment that many visitors find inviting. Opportunities to enjoy the natural surroundings are abundant, including watching sunsets over the sound and observing local wildlife. Additional amenities such as an electric vehicle charging station enhance the practical comfort of stays here.

Overall, Watermen's Retreat suits travelers looking for a serene getaway with easy access to watersports and comfortable lodging. It caters well to families and small groups who desire a peaceful retreat balanced with active, outdoor opportunities.

Summary compiled by GoHotelly editors from verified guest reviews, partner descriptions and editorial notes.
Verified guest reviews

What recent guests are actually saying

Reviews from travelers who stayed here in the last 12 months, grouped to help you spot the pattern quickly.

CB
Carita Brown Apr 19, 2026
10

I had a wonderful, relaxing vacation at Watermen's Cabana 3C and can't wait to go back. The accommodations were clean and spacious for my 2 guests and I. The kitchen is stocked so you can make a simple meal or coffee if need be. We loved having access to a charcoal grill although we didn't use it. I was visiting a older family member so I did not get to participate in any water sports; but enjoyed watching them. Watermen's Retreat has everything you need to make your stay comfortable with a straight forward check in process.

AD
Andy doherty Apr 09, 2026
10

Fantastic place to stay!! Lots of very friendly and helpful staff, Great access to and selection of watersports, and really good food just a few steps away. Awesome wingfoiling instruction from Jesse ! He really helped me to learn the skills to get me up on foil!

RG
Rob Gravis Mar 28, 2026
10

This place is a well oiled machine. From the accommodations to the watersports lessons to the restaurant to the retail store. All five ⭐. The staff is phenomenal. Friendly and helpful. We stayed in The Hideout, which is a freestanding cottage on the property. Well equipped, comfortable, and very nice. Highly recommend.

SL
Sailor LeeV Mar 09, 2026
10

I can’t say enough about this place after visiting twice! “Retreat” is the perfect description; once you’re there you are literally immersed in the awesome groove of all the fellowship, watersports and accommodations. The cabanas were spotless and like a huge apartment with everything you need. The grill has a great menu with easy access on site, and the rental shop and store have everything you could possibly need or want. As a more or less beginning kiteboarder, I was excited but nervous when I arrived to watch the wind and water kick up, and all the seemingly expert boarders launching from what looked like a giant golf course putting green and flying out across the water! I have to say, I’ve never met a nicer or more welcoming group of people anywhere. From the incredible staff to other customers and their families, everyone was friendly and helpful. Special shout outs to Amory & Rob (and others) for all the help with scheduling & accommodations. I began lessons with Ryan, who was encouraging and great at spotting holes in my knowledge, but on my second set of lessons he was ill an I needed a new instructor so they matched me up with Jesse, who was yet another great coach. I’m really fortunate that my wife also wants to see me succeed at this, so we just scheduled an upcoming 5 day visit with Jesse as coach to focus on control & technique! Talk about stoked! If you like Watersports, you’d be hard pressed to find a better place to visit!

RM
Rebecca Meadows Mar 07, 2026
10

We have been coming to Watermans Retreat since 2011. It’s our favorite off-season escape because the accommodations are so comfortable (fully stocked kitchen, plenty of space to play games and relax, cozy beds). It’s the perfect place to watch the sunset over the sound. Every time we leave, we sigh and start daydreaming about coming back. Thanks for another great stay!

DS
Devon Seibert-Bailey Mar 04, 2026
10

We love the Cabanas! We stay there with our family (and dog) at least three times a year. Easy access to the beach. The Cabanas are perfect for a small family get-away!

JF
John Flores Jan 17, 2026
10

Had the most relaxing stay at Waterman’s Cabanas. The beds are so comfortable. We had everything we needed all in walking distance to Waterman’s. I will definitely stay again.

CL
Colleen Lubking Jan 12, 2026
10

Watermen's Retreat was perfect for our weekend getaway! The property was exactly as described and pictured in the reservations portal. Clean, well equipped, and quiet. The location right on the sound provided beautiful sunsets and gorgeous mornings watching the birds fishing for their breakfast. The electric vehicle charging station was a bonus and very much appreciated. Brandon, who checked us in, was considerate in showing us how to access it and super helpful ensuring we had everything we needed for our stay. Highly recommend Watermen's Retreat!

Location & neighborhood

Where you'll find Watermen's Retreat

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