Located in Downtown Wilmington within a 5-minute walk of Riverwalk, this houseboat is within a 15-minute stroll of Live Oak Bank Pavilion. Guestrooms at this houseboat include kitchens, balconies, and refrigerators.
Wilmington Convention Center - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
Cape Fear Community College - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles
Battleship North Carolina - 6 min drive - 3.1 miles
Getting around
Wilmington Intl. Airport (ILM) - 12 min drive
Restaurants
The Half - 18 min walk
Mellow Mushroom Wilmington - Downtown - 16 min walk
Edward Teach Brewing - 14 min walk
Cape Fear Wine and Beer - 16 min walk
Marina Grill - 3 min walk
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire house boat to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Surfside - 8 Minute Walk to Wilmington's Live Oak Bank Pavilion
Welcome to The Cove, Wilmington's most unique vacation rental community. Floating atop the Cape Fear River, our Riverwalk Villa community offers an experience unlike any you've had before. From the gentle rocking of the river, to the peaceful view of the sunset, your stay at The Cove is sure to leave you feeling refreshed, restored, and wanting to return again soon.
@thecove_wilmington (IG/FB/TT)
The space After parking in our free lot (1 spot per villa) and making the 4 minute stroll down onto the docks of the Port City Marina, you’ll arrive at The Cove, Riverwalk Villas. Secured with dock ties and connected to electricity and water, you'll quickly realize that a stay at our dockside community offers the perfect mix of adventure, luxury and relaxation. Upon entering your villa, you’ll notice the spacious open concept kitchen/dining/living area and think to yourself, "I should have brought more friends!" (Don't worry, there's always next time.)
Cooking & Eating: With a dining table that seats four, three benches along the island, and a kitchen stocked with everything you need to make a great meal, you could actually host your next Thanksgiving here. Complementary coffee, creamer and sugar are provided, alongside a drip coffee maker.
Living Room 1: If cooking isn't your idea of fun, you may be more drawn to the beautifully decorated downstairs living space, where you can relax on the cozy couch surrounded by tall windows that overlook the Marina.
Bathroom 1: Just past the common area is the first floor bathroom, which features a walk-in shower and full size washer and dryer. Complementary shampoo, conditioner and body wash are provided in each of the bathrooms, as well as laundry pods, dryer sheets, hair dryer and a steamer.
Bedroom 1 (Queen): Connected by a pocket door is the downstairs bedroom with a Queen bed, large closet, ceiling fan, 40" Smart TV, and access door to the quaint back patio; a great spot for some quiet reading or alone time.
Living Room 2: As you make your way upstairs, you'll discover another large living space with a 55" Smart TV and a beautiful view of the Cape Fear River through the sliding glass doors.
Upstairs Patio: Just outside those doors, you'll find yourself on a large patio featuring an outdoor bar (sink & mini fridge), and a variety of comfortable furniture options. This patio is a fan favorite for everything from morning coffee, afternoon reading, evening spirits, or enjoying a meal. In the Summer months, you'll often hear live music coming from Marina Grill, our delicious on-site restaurant, or Live Oak Bank Pavilion Amphitheater, which is only a block away.
Bedroom 2 (King): Back inside and beyond the living room is the second floor bedroom, featuring a King bed, dresser, large closet, ceiling fan & 55" Smart TV.
Bathroom 2: The pocket door connects you from the bedroom to the second floor full bath.
Location: The Cove is located in Port City Marina, which sits on the North end of the Riverwalk in Downtown Wilmington. Just a few steps from the Wilmington Convention Center and one block from both The Wilson Center, and Live Nation's Live Oak Bank Pavilion Amphitheater, a stay at The Cove offers the perfect solution for those wanting to avoid the chaos of parking, event traffic, and needing a DD.
Less than a mile away you'll find the heart of Historic Downtown Wilmington. Whether you choose to stroll along the Riverwalk, take the free trolley, or drive a few blocks down Water Street, getting there is easy. With many local shops, restaurants, breweries, live music, and events, Downtown offers something for everyone to enjoy. Check out our Guidebook or "Wilmington and Beaches" online for recommendations and events.
Beyond the borders of Downtown, a quick 8 minute drive or Uber ride will get you to the Wilmington International Airport (ILM), and within a 10 mile radius you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Jungle Rapids amusement/water park, UNCW (Go Seahawks!) and much more.
If you're interested in bringing your boat, our friends at Port City Marina would love to rent you a slip! Please reach out to them directly to coordinate that for the dates of your stay. If this Villa is not available during your preferred time frame, please check out the listings for our other Riverwalk Villas at The Cove, and don't hesitate to reach out for assistance. We would love to have you Stay Afloat!
Neighborhood Description The Cove is located in Port City Marina (PCM), a top-tier, gated, full-service marina offering over 200 cutting-edge floating concrete wet slips. Situated on the picturesque Cape Fear River, PCM is a haven for both transient boaters and our esteemed residents enjoying the luxury of our permanent floating villas.
Our state-of-the-art dock hosts all 40 of our exquisite villas, boasting thoughtfully designed angled slips, picturesque landscaping, and a welcoming community space at the dock's end. PCM's prime location on the along the award-winning Riverwalk grants boaters and villa guests unparalleled access to the vibrant Downtown Wilmington scene. Indulge in the city's rich cultural offerings, savor delectable dining experiences, and immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and entertainment scene, all just steps away from our marina.
Getting Around Free parking is provided for one vehicle per villa. Our parking lot is located about 1,000 feet (4 min walk) from the Marina, so we recommend packing in suitcases with wheels, bringing a foldable cart if you have one. We often get unexpected rain showers on the coast, so we also recommend packing an umbrella or rain jacket.
If you will have more than one car, we recommend grabbing a spot in the Wilmington Convention Center parking garage located right next-door. Daily rates in the garage depend on season/events.
Safety Nearby lake/river Our villas are securely tied to a floating dock, which does not have railings. There are railings on the front and upstairs patio/balconies, and children should be supervised at all times while in the marina. Swimming is not allowed in the Cape Fear River due to the dangerous current.
Potential for Noise Located next-door to Marina Grill & Live Oak Bank Amphitheater, live music can often be heard from our dock and patios. Military planes are also often heard flying overhead during the day. Guests have noted however, that our villas are very well insulated and stay quiet inside. Potential for noise
Check in method: Specific directions including getting to the marina, gate & door codes and wifi information will be messaged to you the morning of your stay.
Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a kitchen, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms.
Property manager
Erin Robinson
Similar properties
Leisure at The Cove - 2-bedroom houseboat in Wilmington
Leisure at The Cove - 2-bedroom houseboat in Wilmington
Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Unit size: 1,200 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Pets
This property doesn't allow pets
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 21
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.
Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:
Long-term renters welcome.
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do near this houseboat?
This houseboat is situated in Downtown Wilmington, just steps from Riverwalk, and within a 10-minute walk of Live Oak Bank Pavilion and Wilmington Railroad Museum. You'll also find Cape Fear River and Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College less than a mile away.
How much does it cost to stay at Surfside - 8 Minute Walk to Wilmington's Live Oak Bank Pavilion ?
As of Jul 23, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Surfside - 8 Minute Walk to Wilmington's Live Oak Bank Pavilion on Jul 27, 2025 start from $460.1, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Is parking available on site at this houseboat?
Yes, there is a garage.
Is this houseboat next to a casino?
No, this houseboat is not connected to a casino.
Will I find an indoor pool at this houseboat?
No, there is no indoor pool at this houseboat.
What do couples enjoy most about Surfside - 8 Minute Walk to Wilmington's Live Oak Bank Pavilion ?
At this riverfront houseboat, amenities that appeal to couples include a kitchen and a smart TV in each accommodation with some featuring kitchens.
Does Surfside - 8 Minute Walk to Wilmington's Live Oak Bank Pavilion have a hot tub?
No, there isn't a spa tub at this houseboat.
Does this houseboat include breakfast service?
No, this houseboat doesn't offer breakfast.
Will this houseboat allow pets to stay for free?
No, pets aren't allowed at this houseboat.
Does this houseboat have connecting rooms?
No, there aren't connecting rooms at this houseboat.
How far is the airport from this houseboat?
The closest major airport to this houseboat is Wilmington Intl. Airport (ILM), which is 3.8 mi away (12 minutes by car).
Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Surfside - 8 Minute Walk to Wilmington's Live Oak Bank Pavilion ?
Yes, every accommodation at Surfside - 8 Minute Walk to Wilmington's Live Oak Bank Pavilion comes with a balcony with some featuring water views.
Surfside - 8 Minute Walk to Wilmington's Live Oak Bank Pavilion Reviews
Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 4 out of 4 reviews
10 - Excellent
4
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 4 reviews
8 - Good
0
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 4 reviews
6 - Okay
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Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 4 reviews
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Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 4 reviews
2 - Terrible
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10/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Christina D.
Jul 7, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great weekend getaway!
Very convenient to downtown Wilmington and a great place to stay on the river! Perfect for watching fireworks!
Christina D.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Phyllis M.
Oct 22, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Best relaxing mini vacation
Such beautiful boathouse! Thoroughly enjoyed the fabulous home! It was a five minute walk to the concert venue!
Phyllis M.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
thomas j.
Mar 17, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Review
Great place perfect location
thomas j.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024
10/10 Excellent
Nancy H.
Mar 10, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful!
It was so pretty and very inviting. We will definitely stay there again. I know this sounds silly but everything smelled so nice. It made us feel like we were the first to stay there.