The Zen Escape Fully Updated Oceanfront Dream Home in the heart of Surf City

  • Welcome to the Zen Escape!
    Welcome to the Zen Escape!
  • Gorgeous ocean views await!
    Gorgeous ocean views await!
  • Perfectly sheltered hot tub under the house - with views!
    Perfectly sheltered hot tub under the house - with views!
  • The Zen Escape is right on the water with 180-degree views!
    The Zen Escape is right on the water with 180-degree views!
  • "The many windows brought the outside, inside!" - Eileen R, 2022
    "The many windows brought the outside, inside!" - Eileen R, 2022
  • Dining area and kitchen with the entrance at the back.
    Dining area and kitchen with the entrance at the back.
  • Fully stocked kitchen with stainless steel appliances.
    Fully stocked kitchen with stainless steel appliances.
  • Coffee station - get your setup ready the nigh before for the amazing sunrise!
    Coffee station - get your setup ready the nigh before for the amazing sunrise!
  • The dining table seats 6 people and the space opens up to the deck.
    The dining table seats 6 people and the space opens up to the deck.
  • "It felt like being home! We will definitely visit again!" - Todd, 2021
    "It felt like being home! We will definitely visit again!" - Todd, 2021
  • "Just like the pictures show, it was clean, fully stocked & cute." -Krista, 2022
    "Just like the pictures show, it was clean, fully stocked & cute." -Krista, 2022
  • After dinner, set your table up for some friendly competition.
    After dinner, set your table up for some friendly competition.
  • The Topsail-Opoly won't disappoint!
    The Topsail-Opoly won't disappoint!
  • One of our favorite items: the coral reef patterned arm chair.
    One of our favorite items: the coral reef patterned arm chair.
  • The living area with comfy wrap-around leather sofa.
    The living area with comfy wrap-around leather sofa.
  • The lounge opens up to the deck as well.
    The lounge opens up to the deck as well.
  • Beach themed details everywhere ;)
    Beach themed details everywhere ;)
  • "The views of the ocean were incredible! " - Kerry, 2022
    "The views of the ocean were incredible! " - Kerry, 2022
  • "We saw dolphins every morning." - guest review 2021
    "We saw dolphins every morning." - guest review 2021
  • The deck continues on to the master bedroom.
    The deck continues on to the master bedroom.
  • The master bedroom with a king bed, and views, of course!
    The master bedroom with a king bed, and views, of course!
  • "Comfortable beds (which I feel like can be hard to find in rentals)!" -Rebecca
    "Comfortable beds (which I feel like can be hard to find in rentals)!" -Rebecca
  • Master en-suite bath with a double sink.
    Master en-suite bath with a double sink.
  • The beautiful master bath shower.
    The beautiful master bath shower.
  • With a rainfall shower head!
    With a rainfall shower head!
  • The master is right across the hall from the second guest bedroom.
    The master is right across the hall from the second guest bedroom.
  • The second bedroom has a king bed too.
    The second bedroom has a king bed too.
  • "The beds were comfortable; the views amazing!" - Todd, 2021
    "The beds were comfortable; the views amazing!" - Todd, 2021
  • Hallway bathroom is right next to all the bedrooms.
    Hallway bathroom is right next to all the bedrooms.
  • Full bathroom in the hallway with a gorgeous sea shell mirror.
    Full bathroom in the hallway with a gorgeous sea shell mirror.
  • On the same hallway we have the bunk room; 2 twin beds and a queen.
    On the same hallway we have the bunk room; 2 twin beds and a queen.
  • The bunk room houses a lot of entertainment!
    The bunk room houses a lot of entertainment!
  • "The thing I liked the most was the "Under House Party Patio" - Charlotte
    "The thing I liked the most was the "Under House Party Patio" - Charlotte
  • A lot space for socializing, games, yoga, you name it!
    A lot space for socializing, games, yoga, you name it!
  • The Zen Escape offers a lot of complementary beach gear.
    The Zen Escape offers a lot of complementary beach gear.
  • This space is fully fenced; perfect for keeping the smallest guests safe :).
    This space is fully fenced; perfect for keeping the smallest guests safe :).
  • A full BBQ grill and a hot tub at the back.
    A full BBQ grill and a hot tub at the back.
  • "Downstairs in the shade with the ocean breeze, HOT TUB!" - Avery, 2021
    "Downstairs in the shade with the ocean breeze, HOT TUB!" - Avery, 2021
  • You can stay here all day, we won't judge.
    You can stay here all day, we won't judge.
  • The outdoor dining area can seat 8 people.
    The outdoor dining area can seat 8 people.
  • The wide open space makes it easy to spread out and socialize at the same time.
    The wide open space makes it easy to spread out and socialize at the same time.
  • Plenty of extra seating by the "bar", a lovely respit.
    Plenty of extra seating by the "bar", a lovely respit.
  • The entire Under House space is fenced in - perfect for keeping pups safe!
    The entire Under House space is fenced in - perfect for keeping pups safe!
  • The ground level has the laundry and a bathroom for your convenience.
    The ground level has the laundry and a bathroom for your convenience.
  • You can leave the sand and the salt on the beach...
    You can leave the sand and the salt on the beach...
  • and have a quick wash before sliding in the hot tub.
    ...and have a quick wash before sliding in the hot tub.
  • Your private beach path can serve as a game area too.
    Your private beach path can serve as a game area too.
  • Beach view from the end of the walkway.
    Beach view from the end of the walkway.
  • "The Zen Escape has everything you need to enjoy your stay at the beach."
    "The Zen Escape has everything you need to enjoy your stay at the beach."
  • What more do you need, really?
    What more do you need, really?
  • Don't forget to grab these Could-Be-A-Commercial -shots on your vacation!
    Don't forget to grab these Could-Be-A-Commercial -shots on your vacation!
  • There's wildlife right outside the property, like diving brown pelicans.
    There's wildlife right outside the property, like diving brown pelicans.
  • The front deck of Zen Escape.
    The front deck of Zen Escape.
  • The driveway and parking at Zen Escape.
    The driveway and parking at Zen Escape.
  • "Don’t waste anymore time looking at properties: just book this one." - Jennifer
    "Don’t waste anymore time looking at properties: just book this one." - Jennifer
  • The Zen Escape is right on the water.
    The Zen Escape is right on the water.
  • A floor plan to help you plan your stay.
    A floor plan to help you plan your stay.
  • Early sunrise shot with the moon!
    Early sunrise shot with the moon!
  • The 180-views really make it worth it to get up early.
    The 180-views really make it worth it to get up early.
  • Grab your coffee and watch the sun come up.
    Grab your coffee and watch the sun come up.
  • The sunrises (and sunsets!) are stunning from inside the house too!
    The sunrises (and sunsets!) are stunning from inside the house too!
$318-1,250/night
3 Bedrooms • 3 Baths (2 full, 1 half) • Sleeps 5-8
Allows pets Internet Oceanfront Hot Tub (more...)

“I’ve been coming to Topsail Island for years and this truly was the absolute best vacation home I have ever booked” – Rebecca, April 2022

Welcome to The Zen Escape, a 3-bedroom, 2.5 bath oasis located directly on the beach in classic Surf City, NC. This is the ideal home to recharge and refresh with friends or family. It’s been specifically designed to provide the best experience possible.

"It’s very "zen"...people have told me that they become relaxed as soon as they arrive."
– Beata

"From the moment you open the door & look through to the three sliding doors overlooking the ocean, you KNOW you’ve just stepped into someplace special & won’t want to leave! I really don’t think you could get much closer to the water unless you stayed on a boat." – Jennifer

KITCHEN AND DINING:

Step through the front door of The Zen Escape and into the newly redone open-concept kitchen. Fully equipped with new stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, an ocean facing sink and a large eat-in counter island, this kitchen is designed so the chef can always see the ocean and enjoy the party!

Kitchen & Dining Amenities:
• Suite of Stainless Steel appliances
• Stocked kitchen & pantry
• Coffee Station with Drip, Keurig and Coffee Grinder
• Eat-in kitchen counter (seats 4)
• Formal Dining table (seats 8)
• Charcoal grill
• Outdoor seating for 8 in three different locations

Just beyond the fully stocked kitchen and pantry, the space opens up to the dining and living areas – all with expansive views of the ocean. Take your morning cup of coffee or grab a glass of wine or a Salty Turtle beer and step out onto the extensive balcony that features 8 captain’s chairs, placing you above the deck railing to take in those unobstructed views! This is the perch where you can wave to schools of dolphins plowing the waves or watch an amazing sunrise or sunset!

"The location can't be beat. The views were amazing. The house was great. We will definitely be back!" -Luke

LIVING SPACES:

You can also settle in to enjoy the evening or a rainy day in the cozy living room and luxuriate in the views, the beach-y vibe, and the beautiful décor. This is the perfect spot to play a board game or host a movie night!

Living Spaces Amenities:
• Samsung Smart TVs with Spectrum Live including the full Sports package and on demand in all bedrooms and living room
• Games & Books
• Washer/Dryer
• Central Heat/AC

"I didn’t think it could get any better than the pictures, but it honestly did. It was immensely clean, beautifully decorated, with views that cannot be beat…"- Rebecca, 2022

BEDROOMS AND BATHS:

And, after a long day spent in the sun, sink into a bed with freshly laundered linens and turn on your favorite movie. Each bedroom includes a Smart TV with Spectrum streaming, so the viewing options are endless. Fresh towels are provided for each of the bathrooms. If you happen to have a few extra guests, The Zen Escape has two additional mesh cots with mattresses. We have determined these are much more comfortable and more flexible than a sleeper sofa as they can be used in any room in the home - even on the deck if you’re the adventurous type!

Bedroom & Bathroom Amenities:
• Master oceanfront King bedroom with ensuite bathroom boasting an exquisitely tiled shower and deck access
• Bedroom #2 with King bed, ocean views from the window and direct front porch access
• Bedroom #3 with Bunk room with a Twin XL over Queen bunk and a Twin XL trundle
• Full Bathroom in hallway
• Travel Crib and High Chair
• Linens, towels, toiletries all provided

"We have stayed at many, many places. This one tops them all. Not only is it true ocean front property. It’s full of everything you need but your own clothes and tooth brushes!" – Nicole

OUTDOORS:

Outdoors -
The Zen Escape is also designed to accommodate every aspect of the outdoor experience. A particularly unique feature of this property is the 600 square foot covered and fenced in entertainment area under the house – with its own breathtaking views of the ocean!

This outdoor space features a charcoal grill for the chef in your group, along with pub seating for 8 people around a pub height table and an additional high-top long table which seats 8 that both face the ocean. You can play a rousing game of cornhole, get competitive with giant Jenga, or relax in the 6.75’ x 6.75’ Nordic whirlpool hot tub after a big day of sand and surf.

Your fluffy four-legged friends will appreciate the 10’ x 10’ shaded gravel garden that they can roam all within the confines of the fully fenced in space. With the beach as your backdrop, this is your coastal hideaway for rainy days or breaks from the mid-day sun. Note: On this level there’s also an additional half bath and laundry room, and a huge enclosed outdoor shower! No need to run upstairs to use the loo.

"I liked that it was fenced in so I didn't have to worry about my 1-year old trying to take off." – Jacqueline

Steps away is the beautiful Topsail Island coastline and the Atlantic Ocean with its crashing waves and endless views. For your enjoyment Zen provides beach towels, beach chairs, a beach umbrella, and a variety of beach toys so every day is the perfect Beach Day.

"Waking up to sunrise on the beach while having our pups with us was absolute heaven!" – Jules

THE LOCATION:

The Zen Escape is in the ideal location to explore Topsail Island. With restaurants and shops less than a 5-minute walk away, the opportunity to revel in the beauty of quaint and quiet Surf City is easy and accessible. Make sure to walk out on the pier to get the full experience!

Take it from the locals for the best recommendations:
• Sugar Island Bookshop – for sweets and pastries and our favorite coffee!
• The Daily Grind (a 2 minute walk away) is also in the running for best coffee in town!
• Salty Turtle Beer Company
• Shaka Taco (a 3 minute walk away) for fresh seafood and tacos
• Surf City Shopping (a 6 minute walk away) including my favorite BumbleBee Market
• Karen Beasley’s Turtle Sanctuary
• Surf City Surf School
• Surf City Ocean Pier
• Historic Operation Bumblebee – the Missiles and More Museum

And if you’re looking for fun activities:
• Swimming
• Boogie Boarding
• Paddle Boating
• Kayaking
• Surfing
• Wind-surfing
• Snorkeling
• Fishing
• Golf
• Cycling
• Birdwatching
• Sailing
• Boating
• Jetskiing
• Spas
• Shopping

GETTING HERE:

Fly into Jacksonville (OAJ) Airport and take a 20-minute drive to Topsail Island. Or, fly into Wilmington Airport, just an hour drive away and enjoy the scenic ride along the coastline. With either airport, you can rent a car, take an uber, or order a car service. RDU (Raleigh Durham International) is about 3 hours away.

The gravel driveway is overly spacious and can accommodate at least 6 cars, or even an RV. This single-family home means that all of the driveway space is accessible for the guests. No one else will be using the driveway but you!

OTHER THINGS TO NOTE:

Both bathrooms are brand new. New flooring has been installed throughout the home and it has been freshly painted, with new decor, new linens, new furniture, and new sheets and towels.
The Zen Escape provides the ideal beach house experience. Each group’s stay will also include a fully stocked kitchen and pantry, including spices and other essentials, laundry detergent, hand soap, body wash, shampoo and conditioner, toilet paper, and paper towels. Your stay here is designed for you to relax and decompress, with most of the preparation already done for you.

We are dog-friendly at The Zen Escape, but consider each dog on a case-by-case basis so please tell us about your pup. If you are looking to bring your fluffy friend, we request a $200 refundable pet fee. Plus, please provide us with some details so we can discuss our pet rules further (no dogs on the beds, please). We cap the pet stay at 2 dogs, and at this time are not equipped to allow cats in the home.

We do not offer discounts of any kind. We offer an extremely high level of service, flexibility and a ton of amenities not found in most beach rentals. If you have a specific request, we will do what we can to accommodate you.

Hello, my name is Beata (rhymes with Miata) but you can call me Be. I've had "own a beach house" on my vision board since I was 30, and a few months before my 40th birthday my dreams came true and we bought our first beach home. My husband and I are proud Penn Staters and currently live in Cary, NC with our two sons Leo (2006) and Dylan (2009), our new puppy (born 7/1/2017) our 2 cats (don't worry, none of the cats will come to the beach house). I am a licensed realtor in NC. My primary market is Cary/Apex/Raleigh and the surrounding towns. I also working with buyers looking for their own little slice of heaven on Topsail Island. My father is a skilled carpenter and mason and my mother is a professional housekeeper and I have been running Handy Maven, a boutique remodeling firm in Baltimore for them since 2012. I have been flipping houses with my dad since I was 12. I can not wait to dive in and continue making upgrades and remodels to this already gorgeous, sturdy and well maintained home. Before I left my corporate career to raise my boys, I was a Logistician for Procter & Gamble. My favorite assignment was leading the customer service team. I am also a trained speaker, writer, and trainer. I LOVE leading retreats and leadership events. My goal is to be of service to you in any way that I can be.

Surf City, North Carolina

Property Type House
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: 25
  • Pets welcome
Setting & View
  • Water View
  • Beach
  • Ocean
  • Beachfront
  • Beach View
  • Near Ocean
  • Oceanfront
  • Ocean View
  • Town
  • Waterfront
  • Beach Access
General
  • Internet
  • Air Conditioning
  • Central Heating
  • Linens Provided
  • Towels Provided
  • Washing Machine
  • Clothes Dryer
  • Hot Water
  • Private Living Room
  • Hair Dryer
  • Iron & Board
  • Wifi
  • Ceiling Fans
  • Laptop Friendly Workspace
  • Basic Soaps
  • Paper Towels
  • Shampoo
  • Toilet Paper
  • Hangers
  • Private Entrance
  • Lock On Bedroom Door
  • Extra Pillows & Blankets
  • Free Internet
  • Body Soap
  • Hair Conditioner
  • Shower Gel
  • Clothing Storage (closet or wardrobe)
Kitchen
  • Kitchen
  • Refrigerator
  • Stove
  • Oven
  • Microwave
  • Dishwasher
  • Dishes & Utensils
  • Spices/Pantry Items
  • Coffee Maker
  • Toaster
  • Ice Maker
  • Freezer
  • Blender
  • Kettle
  • Pots & Pans
  • Dining Table
  • Baking Sheet
  • Barbeque/Grill Utensils
  • Mini Fridge
  • Wine Glasses
Dining
  • Child's Highchair
  • Seating for 8 people
Bathrooms 3 Baths (2 full, 1 half)
  • Hallway Bathroom – Combination Tub/Shower, Shower, Toilet, Tub
  • Laundry Room Half Bath – Toilet
  • Master Bathroom – Combination Tub/Shower, Shower, Toilet, Tub
Sleeping Arrangements 3 Bedrooms, sleeps 5-8
  • Bunk Room – 1 Queen bed, 2 Twin beds
  • Master Bedroom – 1 King bed
  • Porch Front King – 1 King bed
Entertainment
  • Television
  • Satellite/Cable
  • DVD Player
  • Video Library
  • Video Games
  • Music Library
  • Games/Board Games
  • Books
  • Toys
  • Smart TV
Family
  • Children's Dinnerware
  • Pack N Play/Travel Crib
  • Room Darkening Shades
  • Children's Books & Toys
Outdoor
  • Outdoor Grill
  • Deck/Patio (uncovered)
  • Lanai/Gazebo (covered)
  • Balcony/Terrace
  • Lawn/Garden
  • Water Sports Gear
  • Beach Essentials
  • Walkable to Park/Playground
  • Private Yard
  • Outdoor Dining
  • Outdoor Shower
  • Outdoor Seating
Pool/Spa
  • Hot Tub
  • Jacuzzi
Vehicles
  • Parking
  • Free Parking
  • Free Parking On Premises
Theme
  • Adventure
  • Family
  • Romantic
  • Tourist Attractions
Attractions
  • Bay/Sound
  • Health/Beauty Spa
  • Marina
Leisure
  • Bird Watching
  • Eco Tourism
  • Paddle Boating
  • Boating
  • Wildlife Viewing
  • Water Sports
Sports & Adventure
  • Cycling
  • Fishing
  • Surf Fishing
  • Golf
  • Jet Skiing
  • Kayaking
  • Pier Fishing
  • Sailing
  • Scuba Diving/Snorkeling
  • Snorkeling
  • Surfing
  • Swimming
  • Wind Surfing
Safety
  • Deadbolt Lock
  • Emergency Exit Route
  • Fire Extinguisher
  • First Aid Kit
  • Exterior Lighting
  • Smoke Detector
  • Cleaning Disinfection
  • Common Surface Disinfectant Cleaned
  • Linens High Temp Wash
Expectations
  • Requires Stairs
Season Rate
Default
1/1 - 12/31
Night
$200 - $1,250

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. For cancellations made within 60 days prior to the arrival date, no refund will be issued.