Really enjoyed our week here over Labor Day and would return. Beach access 10 paces from front porch steps. Crack a window and listen to the waves 24/7 from every room in the house. Beach was sandy with good waves & wading, and soft, long shoreline for walks. No crowds even on LDW. House was sparkling clean and modern, with smart TVs in every room, fast wi-fi, and uncommon extras (Keurig, air fryer, blender, a few helpful leftover kitchen/cleaning/bathroom provisions). 2nd floor deck was perfect to sit out and watch the beach & feel the breeze. Other side of duplex was unoccupied due to renovation, but privacy seemed sufficient. Listing cons in hopes of improvement and in case they are a sticking point for anyone but would absolutely recommend this rental.
Pros:
Couldn't possibly be closer to a perfect, picturesque beach.
Great decks on all 3 floors.
Dog friendly yet still very clean and well-appointed interior.
Quiet, fairly secluded neighborhood.
Check out Topsail Steamer in Surf City. Delicious, fun meal!
Cons:
Curtains pictured on master bedroom sliding glass doors were not there upon Saturday arrival, letting in sunlight and allowing the neighborhood direct line of sight into the bedroom. Texted rental office with pictures and received no response. Called on Tuesday after the holiday weekend and talked with a very understanding woman who promised to send over curtains ASAP. Never received them or heard back by checkout on Friday. Had to hang up sheets for privacy instead, which dampened the vibe.
The other 3 windows in the master bedroom had no curtains or rods, so by 7am the room is VERY bright. No sleeping in or daytime napping for sure. Would strongly recommend full curtains in the master and non-sheer curtains in the other bedrooms, otherwise everyone bring a sleep mask.
Window AC unit (not pictured) was added to the master and duct taped in place. Did a good job cooling the top floor but looked rough and had a loud rattle. A quieter unit professionally installed would go a long way.
Neighborhood beach access is in your backyard, so people were coming and going on the path next to the house all day. Not a big issue.
The VRBO map location near West Onslow Beach is incorrect. The actual location is very far north, past the Tiki Mart. So 20min drive to Surf City, 30 to Topsail Beach, and far from most area dining and attractions. Not an issue if mostly staying at the house, but disappointed to receive incorrect information in the listing.