New Bern Academy Museum

Located on a peaceful dead-end road just mins. from Beaufort's Historic District, this unique property offers the ideal blend of history, appeal, and comfort. Once a church fellowship hall, this roomy 4-bedroom home is ideal for family get-togethers or group gatherings. It's our hidden getaway in a lively and historic coastal town. The sanctuary itself was constructed in 1933 in the modest fishing village of Bettie, and was later moved to Beaufort in 1979 when they added the fellowship hall. In 2019 we purchased the property and began the long process of renovating and creating The Crystal Coast Sanctuary Retreat.The property is just a 15-min. leisurely walk (or an 8-min. bicycle ride) to the Historic District's waterfront, where you’ll find stores, eateries, bars, and museums. Back at home, appreciate our serene maritime forest backyard, home to waterfowl, fish, and deer. Unwind on the swing under the old live oaks or gather around the firepit in one of three creekside seating areas. With 400 feet of waterfront, you can soak in the calming coastal breeze while spotting egrets, herons, ibis, and ospreys. And don’t miss the spectacular sunsets!Our kayak-accessible creek flows into Town Creek Bay and Gallant’s Channel, ideal for paddling adventures. History buffs will savor discovering the old menhaden railroad bed, once used by the Fishmeal Company, which runs along the back of our property.Inside, the open floor plan offers plenty of space for cooking, entertaining, or calming. The entirely equipped kitchen features a new 5-burner glass-top induction stove with two ovens (one huge convection and one modest), a enormous microwave, a full-size refrigerator, and a commercial dishwasher. With ample cookware, dishes, and glasses, hosting a feast is simple, and our wraparound bar comfortably seats 10. The property has two bathrooms (each with two toilets), a separate shower room with two showers, a washer/dryer, and a marvelous outdoor shower.The home includes four private bedrooms (no sheets supplied—rental available for $10/bed with one week's notice):2 queen bedrooms and 2 bedrooms with 6 single bunk beds each (total of 12 single beds).For an additional $350/nighttime, you can access the attached 1,400 sq. ft. sanctuary, a striking multi-purpose space featuring comfortable seating, four couch beds, two dining/game tables, a stage, an 85" intelligent TV, a private master suite and one half bath. Step outside to enjoy our charming new 500 sq. ft. covered back porch. The decor throughout the home reflects decades of our family’s appreciate for the area, featuring unique artifacts, natural treasures, and local art.Leave your car parked and discover Beaufort by foot, bicycle, or kayak! There’s plenty of parking for boat trailers, and public beaches are just a short 5–15 min. drive away (Radio Island or Atlantic Beach). Or take a ferry from Front Street to Rachel Carson Nature Preserve, Shackleford Banks, or Cape Lookout to experience wild ponies, dolphins, and pristine sands.We live close by and are happy to offer recommendations for activities and local spots to discover. We hope you’ll enjoy this little slice of heaven as much as we do!PLEASE REMEMBER:Quiet hours: 11 PM to 7 AM.This is our family home—please respect our property and leave everything as you found it. If something breaks, just let us know!Special events/events require prior approval. Additional event costs or security deposits may apply. Groups of more than 25 people are not allowed without permission.We look forward to hosting you!