Down By The Bay Cottage
House in Portsmouth, RI
6 guests · 3 bedrooms · 3 baths
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Well priced for this locationProperty prices in this area are generally higher
Includes essentialsGarden, Kitchen or Kitchenette, Parking and more
About this house rental
Prudence Island is the unique, undiscovered yet welcoming jewel of Narragansett Bay. A vacation here is a true escape and one that will remain as a fond memory for years to come. The property is a year-round newly renovated three-bedroom home, traditionally and attractively-styled with panoramic views of the bay.
The first floor of this bright and immaculate home features a beautiful eat-in kitchen, spacious dining room, tasteful living room, full bath and sun room with ten windows providing clear views of the water and the mainland beyond. The second floor features three comfortable and inviting bedrooms as well as a bath with shower. Outside is a front deck where you can watch the gorgeous sun rise over the bay while having your morning coffee. The spacious rear deck is perfect for grilling and al fresco dining while enjoying the evening breezes. It also features an outside shower great for rinsing off while still enjoying the sunshine. Relax in the yard on the hammock while sipping a summer beverage and devouring your favorite novel. You’ll enjoy the comforts of this property so much you may find it difficult to take leave to explore the island, but there’s much to see and do.
Steps from the front deck is a beautiful private beach with clear waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, clamming, snorkeling, boating and more. While some of the coastline here is rocky (water shoes recommended), throughout the island there are many sandy beaches you’ll want to explore.
Prudence Island is very scenic and secluded, abounding with preserved natural areas that comprise 75% of the island. The serenity and slow pace here give it the feel of a simpler time and place – one without restaurants, bars or retail shopping areas. Basic provisions are available at two small country stores so it’s recommended that vacationers bring their own supplies.
The island has a mix of paved and unpaved roads with few cars on-island making them ideal for biking, walking and jogging. Prudence has an impressive and well-maintained trail network featuring trails of varying lengths that link to interesting historical sites – birdwatchers, bring your binoculars! Sandy beaches are plentiful – and offer vacationers a secluded and tranquil escape from the everyday hustle and bustle of modern life.
This traditional island community is close-knit yet very welcoming with lots of activities to take part in. Look out for upcoming events and old-fashioned activities posted at the exit of the ferry parking lot – summer ice cream socials, pot luck dinners and other events are casual, enjoyable and good clean fun! There’s blueberry picking at Farnham Farm, movie nights at the Prudence Island Association community center, story hour at the Homestead Library and great programs for kids and adults at the Narragansett Estuarine Research Center. The unique one-room school house (currently serving seven island students) also provides fun summer programs open to all children visiting the island.
Prudence Island is accessible by ferry, water taxi or private vessel. The reliable Prudence and Bay Islands Transport ferry service travels between Bristol and Prudence several times a day and the crossing takes approximately 25 minutes. The ferry landing, and nearby country store, is a 5-minute walk from the house. Vacationers should consult the ferry website and are encouraged to make vehicle reservations well in advance of their trip.
Vacationers seeking experiences beyond the island can utilize the ferry for day trips to nearby Bristol, with its quaint downtown featuring a variety of shops, galleries, museums, restaurants and taverns. A half-hour drive north from Bristol brings you to Providence, Rhode Island’s capital and the state’s largest city. A half-hour drive south from the Bristol ferry landing is the beautiful and historic city of Newport, with its famed Bellevue Avenue mansion tours, renowned Newport Jazz Festival and great seafood dining.
Amidst the beauty and tranquility of Prudence Island and the comforts of this lovely waterfront home, your vacation here is sure to be a wonderful and memorable getaway. We’re sure you’ll want to come back again and again.
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The first floor of this bright and immaculate home features a beautiful eat-in kitchen, spacious dining room, tasteful living room, full bath and sun room with ten windows providing clear views of the water and the mainland beyond. The second floor features three comfortable and inviting bedrooms as well as a bath with shower. Outside is a front deck where you can watch the gorgeous sun rise over the bay while having your morning coffee. The spacious rear deck is perfect for grilling and al fresco dining while enjoying the evening breezes. It also features an outside shower great for rinsing off while still enjoying the sunshine. Relax in the yard on the hammock while sipping a summer beverage and devouring your favorite novel. You’ll enjoy the comforts of this property so much you may find it difficult to take leave to explore the island, but there’s much to see and do.
Steps from the front deck is a beautiful private beach with clear waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, clamming, snorkeling, boating and more. While some of the coastline here is rocky (water shoes recommended), throughout the island there are many sandy beaches you’ll want to explore.
Prudence Island is very scenic and secluded, abounding with preserved natural areas that comprise 75% of the island. The serenity and slow pace here give it the feel of a simpler time and place – one without restaurants, bars or retail shopping areas. Basic provisions are available at two small country stores so it’s recommended that vacationers bring their own supplies.
The island has a mix of paved and unpaved roads with few cars on-island making them ideal for biking, walking and jogging. Prudence has an impressive and well-maintained trail network featuring trails of varying lengths that link to interesting historical sites – birdwatchers, bring your binoculars! Sandy beaches are plentiful – and offer vacationers a secluded and tranquil escape from the everyday hustle and bustle of modern life.
This traditional island community is close-knit yet very welcoming with lots of activities to take part in. Look out for upcoming events and old-fashioned activities posted at the exit of the ferry parking lot – summer ice cream socials, pot luck dinners and other events are casual, enjoyable and good clean fun! There’s blueberry picking at Farnham Farm, movie nights at the Prudence Island Association community center, story hour at the Homestead Library and great programs for kids and adults at the Narragansett Estuarine Research Center. The unique one-room school house (currently serving seven island students) also provides fun summer programs open to all children visiting the island.
Prudence Island is accessible by ferry, water taxi or private vessel. The reliable Prudence and Bay Islands Transport ferry service travels between Bristol and Prudence several times a day and the crossing takes approximately 25 minutes. The ferry landing, and nearby country store, is a 5-minute walk from the house. Vacationers should consult the ferry website and are encouraged to make vehicle reservations well in advance of their trip.
Vacationers seeking experiences beyond the island can utilize the ferry for day trips to nearby Bristol, with its quaint downtown featuring a variety of shops, galleries, museums, restaurants and taverns. A half-hour drive north from Bristol brings you to Providence, Rhode Island’s capital and the state’s largest city. A half-hour drive south from the Bristol ferry landing is the beautiful and historic city of Newport, with its famed Bellevue Avenue mansion tours, renowned Newport Jazz Festival and great seafood dining.
Amidst the beauty and tranquility of Prudence Island and the comforts of this lovely waterfront home, your vacation here is sure to be a wonderful and memorable getaway. We’re sure you’ll want to come back again and again.
----------------
Amenities
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Dishwasher
TV
Garden
Family friendly
Map of Portsmouth, RI
RRRR
Ratings and reviews
10.0 / 10.0
This was our third stay at this beautiful home, and just like in the past, we enjoyed every minute. Early morning coffee and reading on the porch, walks to the lighthouse, days spent on the beach, fishing at the T Warf, deer rides and gorgeous sunsets are just a few of our favorite things to do when we visit. We look forward to going back next year!
10.0 / 10.0
Very comfortable, clean and had all the amenities that you could possibly need. I have rented before and look forward to continuing renting. Thank you McKnights for renting your lovely home.
10.0 / 10.0
The place was beautiful
Immaculate and had everything you need. If you enjoy the island life. Thid was exceptional. Can't wait to book it again.
10.0 / 10.0
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in Down By The Bay Cottage. The spaces are stunning, the use of space, and the attention to detail are amazing. We walked to the light house everyday, sat on the porch and waved to the locals, put togeather two 550 pcs puzzles (no missing pieces); one was from 1982. We read books, cooked meals, and mostly looked out the windows at the Beautiful view. We could not have asked for better lodging while on island. Thanks to the owners and maintenance crew for a wonderful get-a-way.
10.0 / 10.0
Prudence Island is a magical place for a couple days of hiking, relaxing, and bird-watching. We (two adults) visited during the off-season, three nights in late March. The house is very comfortable. Baseboard heating was plenty warm. The house was recently renovated, and everything is as advertised.
The island has no restaurants or supermarkets, and no tourism industry. Bring all your own food. We loved hiking on the trails; walking along the beach; bird watching; and spotting the seals. We watched spectacular sunrises each morning, and were visited by a large wild rabbit twice.
We enjoyed the chance to relax without wi-fi. There is very good cell reception.
Communication and check-in all went smoothly. Guests need to bring their own sheets and towels.
We already began plotting how to return next year.
10.0 / 10.0
My sister and I drove from Louisiana to celebrate my 50th birthday dream vacation!
I’ve always wanted to travel to Rhode Island and when I spotted this place on Prudence Island, I had to go! It was absolutely perfect! We were very comfortable and felt like home! Everyone was friendly and welcomed us as we were family! The island is beautiful! The transit system is on point and the staff is friendly and helpful! We took the ferry to and from the island daily and enjoyed the experience! There is much beauty to explore and we look forward to returning! Much love to all!
6.0 / 10.0
I love this property, great location, plenty of room, had everything you could want, only exception, no AC and it was a hot humid week, showers need water filters which I recommended, owners are great to deal with!!
10.0 / 10.0
This Prudence Island getaway was exactly what we needed to slow the pace of our busy lives. This peaceful ocean front retreat had everything we needed including ample space inside and out, breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay and easy access to the ferry. Tom and Mary were gracious hosts and quick to answer any questions we had. We highly recommend!
10.0 / 10.0
This was our 5th year at Down by the Bay Cottage… feels like home to us. Clean, well equipped, cozy, peaceful, love the view of Narragansett Bay. And, the deer in the backyard. Hoping to return next year.
10.0 / 10.0
Love this house! We have family that live on Prudence, this house makes it possible for us to have a comfortable visit and enjoy the island.
Perfect location
10.0 / 10.0
The house is definitely a sweet spot. It has everything you need for a relaxing vacation. I’m booking again for next year.
10.0 / 10.0
The cottage is exactly as pictured simply lovely! If you are looking to take a break from a busy life this is the place for you. Private beach access steps away from the front door or a beautiful backyard to relax in! Bring your food and beverages then breathe and relax!
10.0 / 10.0
The front porch with view of the water is a lovely place to hang out, read or play one of the wide variety of games. The breeze and light from the front porch filters into the living room, where there is a TV hidden in a cabinet, along with DVD's appropriate for adults and for kids of a variety of ages. There are plenty of windows which open and close easily for a nice cross breeze throughout the whole house. The kitchen has plenty of amenities to make it easy to cook and serve on the big dining room table or oversized picnic table out back, and to clean up afterwards. Upstairs, the master bedroom is a tranquil space, with windows on three sides, a nice cross breeze, a ceiling fan, and a view of the ocean and the twinkling lights on the bridge, as well as dark curtains to shut out the morning light. There are two little rows of books with a strong collection of literature. Poetry lovers are out of luck, unless they want to read essays by Dylan Thomas, but there are quite a few short novels and short story collections to delight any reader of fiction, and there is some interesting non-fiction, too, including info about the Island. My kids were close by across the hall, with a sturdy bunk bed, cross breeze, and a box set of The Lightning Theif. The other bedroom is small but breezy, fit for an adult. The secret bedroom off the porch downstairs is a pleasant, fun space. Plenty of blankets and pillows for all. Washer/Dryer small but easy to use. A quirky house, but quite nice.
10.0 / 10.0
Location was perfect, place was clean and well-stocked. Communication was terrific and overall it was a great experience!
10.0 / 10.0
2 besties for 47 years celebrating our birthdays wanting to escape the world found paradise. We were blessed with great sunny weather and we did sightseeing. But all plans we had to leave for Newport or shopping immediately were cancelled. The cottage is adorable and the beachfront view is outstanding. Thanks to all.
10.0 / 10.0
We had a great time, we loved our stay here! The house was clean and I thought it was a nice comfy stay for a relaxing long weekend.
5.0 / 10.0
Our 3rd year renting this sweet cottage… charming, cozy, wonderful location overlooking Narragansett Bay… we love it! Looking forward to seeing you next Fall.
5.0 / 10.0
Been going to the Island for years! Always with relatives. This house was the next best thing to a family home.
10.0 / 10.0
Very nice home has all you need to enjoy your stay, 2 full bathrooms and plenty of room for sleeping, nice deck over looking the bay. Would rent it again
10.0 / 10.0
Exceeded our Expectations!
We loved this cottage. The view of Narragansett Bay and the Mount Hope bridge was breathtaking. The kitchen and cottage is so well stocked. We enjoyed many meals on the back deck watching wild bunnies. Renting was really easy and communication was great. Thank you Mary, Tom and Stephanie for sharing your home!
10.0 / 10.0
A favorite destination
A second stay for my husband and I at this sweet cottage. Charming, cheery, spacious, very comfortable, clean, and well-equipped. Great location with a great view and sunrise. A special place to unwind, enjoy, and explore… on bikes.
Planning to return soon.
Red and Wendy T
10.0 / 10.0
Prudence
Very homey, comfortable, excellent location, everything needed for our stay
10.0 / 10.0
A Very Relaxing Stay
What a great seaside cottage. Tom and Mary's place had everything you need for a great stay and they are very responsive hosts as well. The cottage was clean, charming, comfortable and with incredible views. We spent most of our stay looking at the sea from the front deck. At night was a spectacular view of the Mount Hope Bridge all lit up. Beautiful!
I would highly recommend this place if you are looking for a peaceful place to vacation. The island folks are so friendly and the scenery is spectacular.
10.0 / 10.0
Prudence Perfect
It is a lovely place to stay on a lovely island. We had a wonderful, relaxing vacation. Have recommended it to others
10.0 / 10.0
Great view!
Spacious, clean home with an amazing view!
10.0 / 10.0
Great house, perfect vacation!
Our stay in this house couldn’t have been better or more comfortable!
10.0 / 10.0
We loved our Prudence Island getaway ! The house is perfect for true relaxation. Take some bikes 😊
Smooth sailing renting this perfectly appointed house. We loved the sunsets and beach !
10.0 / 10.0
Perfect Getaway
We had a great stay! Our favorite part of our stay was just sitting on the front porch looking at the bay and all the boats going by. The property is close to the ferry. We took the ferry from PI to Bristol to have dinner. There are a few great restaurants in walking distance to the ferry in Bristol. Make a reservation if you plan to go on a Friday night! We would love to go back next summer!!!
10.0 / 10.0
Loved it
Everything we could have wanted from a beach vacation. Loved the view and the front porch, waking up to the view of the water out the window. Gorgeous! The Island has just the slow, simple, quiet feel that we love. No crowds at all! If you like rural vibes and seclusion, this is the dream!
The only downside was that we didn’t buy our ferry tickets early enough- ferry got sold out! But it worked out since we got up early for the first ferry of the day and had a long time to explore the island before checkin. I also wish we had brought some more basic supplies like toilet paper and charcoal and water. But luckily the general store did have those things. Be warned- it’s cash only, so come prepared! The other thing to know is there are a LOT of ticks. We found several on us each day after short walks. Definitely do your tick checks frequently. Thank you Prudence island for a wonderful time. We hope to come back next year!
10.0 / 10.0
Great home on a very peaceful island
This home is extremely clean, and has everything you need for a great stay. The location is outstanding. Unfortunately it was cool and it rained throughout our long family weekend, but the owners had anticipated weather like this and stocked their home with numerous books, games and toys for all ages. Very relaxing location with great views of Narraganset Bay. We are going back in a few months.
10.0 / 10.0
You don't have to think twice about booking with Mary and Tom
We had such a wonderful time here. The home felt like just that, a home. The perfect place for a short or long stay, with just yourself or the whole family. The view from any point of the island is beautiful but to have a sunrise view from the front porch.. breathtaking. The home came well equipped with kitchen supplies, blankets, and a sense of peace. Mary and Tom are wonderful hosts, so friendly and helpful at any time of the day. They really have created a home away from home for anyone and everyone. We can not wait to return!
10.0 / 10.0
Prudence Island
The property was very lovely, as was the island. I visited in February so it was a little colder on the island, but the house was very cozy and wonderful to be in!
10.0 / 10.0
Great stay
Had a wonderful time at this cottage for the second time! Plenty of space and a well stocked kitchen, with a breathtaking view made for a great stay! We ventured out in the winter months this time, and the house was nice and warm and inviting even located directly on the water! Can’t say enough wonder things about this house. The owners are easy to reach and have a property manager on the island if an issue arises.
10.0 / 10.0
Great get way
The house was wonderful and a great location. The kitchen was well stocked and there was plenty of comfortable beds. We loved the back patio to grill and the front porch was perfect for morning coffee. Plenty of sleeping space! Fully stocked kitchen was a plus, as well as the outdoor shower ;)! Thanks for a great stay!
10.0 / 10.0
Our honeymoon celebrating 50 years
Perfect. Sweet cottage. Charming, clean, cozy, well equipped, spacious with great bay view including sunrise/moonrise. Peaceful island. Greatly enjoyed exploring on our bikes, the natural setting, its history, and island life today. Special place. We will be back.
5.0 / 10.0
My family and I had an excellent stay at this property on Prudence Island! It had all the amenities we needed for our week long stay on the island. The view of Narragansett bay was amazing from the front deck and the 5 min walk to the ferry was perfect! The private beach was perfect for swimming and for getting some much needed vitamin D! My 2 1/2 yr old son loved watching all the boats go by! Thank you for a wonderful stay! We will definitely be back! Joyce H
10.0 / 10.0
Quiet stay on the bay!
My family and I had an excellent stay at this property on Prudence Island! It had all the amenities we needed for our week long stay on the island. The view of Narragansett bay was amazing from the front deck and the 5 min walk to the ferry was perfect! The private beach was perfect for swimming and for getting some much needed vitamin D! My 2 1/2 yr old son loved watching all the boats go by! Thank you for a wonderful stay! We will definitely be back!
Joyce H
10.0 / 10.0
Wonderful!
Couldn't love this place more
10.0 / 10.0
Prudence paradise
We love this house! Clean had everything we needed. Great location..
10.0 / 10.0
A perfect vacation
Our stay at Down by the Bay made our weeklong vacation on Prudence Island just perfect. The home is immaculately kept, roomy, and has all the amenities we desired. The caretaker was so welcoming. Being so close to bay made lounging on the front deck such a special experience. We’ll be back next year for sure!
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Portsmouth?
The average price for a rental in Portsmouth is R 5,809 per night. This rental is R 1,700 less expensive than the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Down By The Bay Cottage. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this house?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this house. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Down By The Bay Cottage pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this house is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Down By The Bay Cottage?
We found 8 amenities for this rental. This includes kitchen or kitchenette, parking, laundry, balcony or patio, and dishwasher.
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