Guest favorite · 5.0 ★ · 31 Airbnb reviews

South River Retreat

A warm, family- and dog-friendly vacation home in Edgewater, Maryland — walk to the South River community beach, minutes from downtown Annapolis, and about 5 minutes from Historic London Town and Gardens (Londontowne) for wedding weekends and celebrations.

3 bedrooms
5 beds
3.5 baths
Entire home · Edgewater, MD

Edgewater · South River · Near Annapolis

About the home

Plan your fall and winter escape at this family- and dog-friendly home in the waterfront community of Edgewater, just 4 miles from the Naval Academy — about a 10-minute drive to the USNA Gate 1 visitor entrance on King George Street — and about 12 minutes to downtown Annapolis (City Dock / Main Street). Five minutes from Londontowne Gardens.

Enjoy backyard bonfires, lawn games, or movie nights under the stars. Inside, spread out across 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and a layout perfect for multigenerational stays. With a fully equipped kitchen, deck, boat slip, and baby gear (by request), it’s designed for carefree days by the South River.

Walk to the nearby community beach to crab, fish, or simply relax by the water. Dates book quickly for Navy events, weddings, and family gatherings — request your stay and enjoy all the comforts of home.

Top 5% of homes Highly ranked on Airbnb based on ratings, reviews, and reliability.
Private backyard Fire pit, pavilion with string lights, lawn games, and space to gather.
Near the Academy & downtown Just 4 miles from the Naval Academy; about 12 minutes to downtown Annapolis.
Stocked coffee bar Rise Up coffee, drip, French press, Nespresso Vertuo, and a large tea selection.
Near Londontowne About 5 minutes to Historic London Town and Gardens for weddings and visits.
Private backyard with pavilion, fire pit seating, and lawn at South River Retreat near London Town Gardens
Fully stocked coffee bar at South River Retreat with drip coffee maker, French press, and Nespresso Vertuo

Mornings, sorted

A fully stocked coffee bar

Start your day with coffee ground from our local favorite, Rise Up Coffee.

  • Drip coffee machine
  • French press
  • Nespresso Vertuo machine, stocked with capsules
  • Everything you need for coffee, plus a large tea selection

The space

Bedrooms built for groups

Let’s take a closer look. Each space has been designed with comfort, flexibility, and family convenience in mind — including a main-floor bedroom for guests who prefer fewer stairs.

Primary king bedroom with ensuite full bath — spacious upstairs retreat at South River Retreat

Primary king suite (upstairs)

Spacious bedroom with a king bed, newly renovated en-suite bath, and direct access to a private deck for morning coffee or evening relaxation, plus a Roku TV.

Upstairs bedroom with queen and single beds plus ensuite bath

Queen + twin bedroom (upstairs)

Flexible sleeping arrangements with a queen and twin bed, plus a modern en-suite bathroom — ideal for kids or friends sharing a room.

Main-floor queen bedroom with TV, dresser, and closet

Queen bedroom (main floor)

No stairs and handicap friendly. A queen bed on the main floor, with a full bathroom less than 3 feet across the hall. It's ideal for grandparents or anyone who wants to skip the stairs. Includes a Roku TV. The powder room and laundry are also on the main level.

Living room A bright, open space with a large sectional, Roku TV, and soft lighting — perfect for movie nights, game days, or winding down after exploring Annapolis.
Dining area Gather around the dining table with seating for 8, with its own Roku TV. Share meals, play board games, or plan the next day’s outing.
Kitchen & coffee station Fully equipped kitchen with stainless appliances and kids’ dishware. Fully stocked coffee bar with Rise Up coffee, drip, French press, and Nespresso Vertuo.
Bathrooms Three full bathrooms and one half bath, each clean and stocked with fresh towels and essentials.

Outdoor living

Backyard bonfires, games & string lights

The backyard is equipped with so many toys and games — cornhole, axe throwing, jumbo Connect Four, can jam, and more. Gather around the fire pit for evening bonfires, or settle under the pavilion with string lights for patio dinners and open-air movie nights (projector available by request).

Outdoor games and a big fenced yard at South River Retreat

Toys & yard games

A spacious, fenced yard packed with outdoor games so kids (and kids-at-heart) stay busy while adults relax nearby.

Gather around the bonfire at South River Retreat

Fire pit

Pull up a chair and gather around the bonfire after a day on the water, a wedding, or a Navy weekend.

Backyard pavilion with lounge seating and string lights

Pavilion with string lights

Covered lounge and dining under the pavilion — string lights, outdoor furniture, and an easy spot for group meals outside.

Go Navy · USNA families

Staying for a Naval Academy visit?

South River Retreat is a comfortable home base for parents and families visiting midshipmen — just 4 miles from the Naval Academy, about a 10-minute drive to USNA Gate 1 (the main visitor gate on King George Street), and about 12 minutes to downtown Annapolis (City Dock / Main Street). Across the South River in Edgewater, you get quiet neighborhood parking and room for the whole family to stay together.

Commissioning Week 2027 and 2028 are already booked. Send a request for other USNA weekends, and book early for future Commissioning Weeks.

Whether you’re here for Plebe Summer / I-Day, Parents’ Weekend, a Navy home football game, Commissioning Week / graduation, or a holiday visit, the house is set up so grandparents, siblings, and friends can spread out across three bedrooms and 3.5 baths — then regroup in the living room, around the dining table for eight, or out back by the fire pit.

Game day? The house is set up for tailgating before Navy home games, with a private backyard, BBQ grill, outdoor dining area, and outdoor furniture so your crew can gather before heading toward the Yard.

Don't Give Up The Ship Maryland mural in the backyard at South River Retreat Backyard pavilion ready for family gatherings before a Navy weekend Gas grill for outdoor cookouts and game-day gatherings
  • Just 4 miles from the Naval Academy
  • ~10 min to USNA Gate 1 (King George St)
  • ~12 min to downtown Annapolis
  • Room for the whole family
  • Backyard grill & outdoor dining
  • Go Navy!
“Great place! We had guests over and there was plenty of room. Very clean, great host! Stay here!!!!”
Joel · Dad of a 2027 USNA graduate
“We enjoyed a wonderful weekend here! Nina’s home was very clean, very comfortable and nicely decorated. The kitchen and the bathrooms were fully stocked with everything we could possibly need. Nina was a friendly and responsive host, and we look forward to returning to her cozy home.”
Kyle · Naval Academy visit
“This is an absolutely amazing place to stay! It was very clean, decorated so nicely, and the beds were comfortable. Nina has clearly put so much thought into stocking the home with many items that guests may need during their stay. The coffee bar was lovely. Cannot recommend enough and would love to stay again!”
Jessica · USNA promotion ceremony
“An absolutely perfect stay. If you’re looking for an amazing home and backyard where you’ll feel right at home (or better), this is your spot! We will be back!! Super clean, spacious, friendly, so easy to get to, and they’ve thought of everything!”
Christina · Army / Air Force football game
“We were beyond happy with Nina's place! The cleanliness was top-notch and she included anything you could need for a weekend stay. She was so helpful leading up to and during our stay. Absolutely loved this rental.”
Megan · USNA football game

South River Retreat is an independent vacation rental. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the U.S. Naval Academy.

What this place offers

Amenities for easy group stays

Comfortable essentials for family stays. Mention baby gear, bikes, the projector, or the boat slip in your request if you need them.

Outdoor

  • Private backyard with fire pit
  • Pavilion with string lights · outdoor dining
  • BBQ grill (gas & charcoal)
  • Yard games (cornhole, jumbo Connect Four, can jam, and more)
  • Shared beach access (community)
  • Boat slip available upon request

Kitchen & comfort

  • Full kitchen · dishwasher · microwave
  • Coffee maker & coffee station
  • Air conditioning & heating
  • Washer & dryer (main level)
  • Wifi · dedicated workspace
  • HDTV with Roku · record player

Family, pets & parking

  • Pets allowed (max 2; fee & weight limit apply)
  • Pack ’n play / travel crib & high chair
  • Children’s books, toys & bikes (by request)
  • Free parking on premises
  • Board games & books
  • Smoke & carbon monoxide alarms

Wedding lodging · Edgewater MD

Staying for a wedding at Historic London Town and Gardens?

South River Retreat is about 5 minutes from Historic London Town and Gardens in Edgewater — the riverside venue locals also call Londontowne, London Town, or London Town Gardens. Many guests book the house as a home base for wedding parties and out-of-town family attending a ceremony or reception there.

With three bedrooms, 3.5 baths, a big backyard, and parking for multiple cars, the home works well when your group wants to stay together instead of splitting across hotels. After the celebration, unwind by the fire pit, play lawn games, or take an easy drive into Annapolis for brunch on the water.

“She was so thoughtful in her communication and set up! The house as well stocked and the bathrooms were gorgeous! It was walking distance to Coconut Joes. I would consider coming back with my family for a weekend away.”
Raquel · London Town wedding weekend
“There are not enough words to illustrate how helpful and amazing Nina was as a host. Given the unique circumstances given this trip, Nina was more than accommodating and incredibly helpful. … As for her place, immaculate. Great space with plenty of comforts to make you feel at home. Anytime I am in the area, I will, without a doubt, seek to stay in Nina’s place.”
Adam · London Town wedding weekend

South River Retreat is an independent vacation rental. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by Historic London Town and Gardens.

  • ~5 min to Historic London Town and Gardens
  • Lodging for wedding guests & wedding parties
  • Londontowne / London Town Gardens weekends
  • Quiet Edgewater neighborhood
  • ~12 min to downtown Annapolis

Friends & family

Friends & family gatherings

The house is a great fit for holidays, birthdays, reunions, bachelor and bachelorette weekends, and the Maryland Renaissance Festival (Renn Fest) — with room to cook, play, and unwind together after a full day out.

“Wonderful space and Nina was an incredibly gracious host! The perfect spot for a get together in a wonderful new city”
Jenna · Family reunion
“Nina is we a great host and the house was great! Will be visiting again.”
Michael
“Wonderful!!! we had a great time Nina was very responsive.”
Bob
“Nina was a wonderful host! The house was clean, full of necessities and conveniently located. Nina went the extra mile to leave us thoughtful items for our kids and set everything up for us. We look forward to staying again!”
Lauren · Thanksgiving visiting family
“We had an amazing stay at this location for an anniversary weekend with friends at the Maryland Renaissance Festival. It took us only 12-15 minutes to get there each day. … the home was amazing for everyone to be able to come back to shower, rest, and relax after active days at the festival. We are definitely going to book again in the future. Thank you, Nina!”
Corinne · Renn Fest weekend
“Beautiful house!”
Dan
“Nina was a tremendous host. Cannot say enough good things about South River Retreat. … The house was beautifully decorated for the holidays including a very lovely tree with gifts for my grandchildren. … LOVED our stay and will stay again. Perfect!”
Brenda · Christmas visiting family
“Nina was the most responsive and kind host. She goes above and beyond to make sure you have a wonderful stay. The house was gorgeous and we loved all the games there were to play. Nina left lots of recommendations for nearby food which we appreciated! We had a wonderful time and would love to stay again.”
Alexis · Renn Fest weekend

Location

Edgewater, on the South River

Set in a residential Edgewater neighborhood with water privileges on the South River. Exact street address is shared after booking; the map below shows the general Edgewater / South River area near Annapolis — not a pin on the house number.

Guests love being close to marinas and waterfront views without staying in the middle of downtown — especially for Naval Academy visits, football weekends, and weddings at London Town Gardens / Londontowne.

  • U.S. Naval Academy — just 4 miles (about 10 minutes to Gate 1)
  • Downtown Annapolis (City Dock / Main Street) — about 12 minutes / 6.4 miles
  • Historic London Town and Gardens — about 5 minutes
  • Sandy Point State Park — about 8 miles
  • Quiet Waters Park — about 10 minutes
  • Baltimore & Washington, D.C. — roughly 30 miles

Nearby dining guests often mention: Coconut Joe’s, Mike’s Restaurant & Crabhouse, Yellowfin Steak & Fish House, Curate Café, 49 West Coffeehouse, and Brown Mustache.

General area map for Edgewater / South River. Address details provided after booking.

The community beach just down the street from South River Retreat in Edgewater MD

From the welcome book

Your guide to the South River

A peek at the local favorites from the house welcome book — the coffee stops, restaurants, market runs, and Navy game-day spots that make an Edgewater stay feel like home. Full check-in details stay in your guest messages after you book.

Cover of the South River Retreat welcome guide

A note from your host

Welcome to Annapolis! I’m an area transplant who’s completely in love with this city, neighborhood, and home. I grew up about an hour away in Gaithersburg, went to college in D.C., and then finally made the move to Annapolis — and never looked back.

These days I split my time between raising two boys, working for a local GC company, and pouring every spare minute into this house — my very first (and only) Airbnb. It’s 100% my baby, and turning it into the perfect getaway for guests has become my favorite creative outlet.

When I’m not tweaking the listing or adding new board games to the collection, you’ll probably find us cheering for Navy football, the Terps, the Caps, and yes — still bleeding burgundy and gold for the Commanders. I can’t wait for you to fall in love with Annapolis the way I did. Make yourself at home and explore every corner of the area.

Taste Annapolis — explore the best restaurants in the area

Breakfast, brunch & coffee

  • Rise Up — local favorite coffee (Edgewater ~1 mile; also Annapolis). Try the Cinnamon Toast Crunch Latte & The Local Burrito.
  • Black Market Bakers — Edgewater; best breakfast/pastries. Favorites: monkey bread, honey bun, and the bacon, tomato & egg sandwich on focaccia.
  • Bread and Butter Kitchen — Eastport / Annapolis (~5 miles). Grab a bite, watch the water, then walk around Eastport.
  • Iron Rooster — downtown Annapolis. Sit-down breakfast with mimosas; the pop-tarts are amazing.
  • Wyrd Bookstore — Edgewater (~2 miles). Cute bookstore with the best latte.

Lunch favorites

  • Boatyard Bar & Grill — hands down a top pick in Annapolis (also open for brunch). Favorites: Bloody Mary, 50/50 crab soup, tuna sandwich Franyo style, buffalo chicken open-face, or a crab cake.
  • Market House — heart of downtown; something for everyone. Try the fried pickles.
  • Adams on Fourth — Eastport. Favorite: ceviche.
  • Coconut Joe’s — across the street from the neighborhood with South River views (pirate ship playground for kids). Favorites: Orange Skinny Crush, Bang Bang Shrimp.
  • Timber Pizza — Annapolis (West Street) and Edgewater (~5 minutes). Best local pizza.

Dinner, pizza & takeout

  • Timber — pizza in Annapolis & Edgewater.
  • Vocelli — pizza in Edgewater.
  • Squisito — pizza and Italian in Annapolis.
  • Nova — sushi in Edgewater.
  • All American Steakhouse — American bar food in Edgewater.
  • Coopers Tavern — Annapolis favorite for a casual sit-down.

When you want to leave the cooking to the pros, ask for current dinner picks after you book — favorites rotate with the season.

Navy game day bites

  • Chessie’s Wharf (West Annapolis) — casual taproom by RAR Brewing; short walk toward the stadium. Burgers, crab pretzels, drunken tots.
  • Positano Ristorante (West Annapolis) — family-owned Italian on Annapolis Street; pasta, chicken parm, wood-fired pizzas.
  • Stan and Joe’s Saloon — West Street downtown; packed on game days with wings, nachos, crab dip, and burgers.
  • Rams Head Tavern — West Street Arts District; classic Annapolis pub with Navy ties, crab cakes, and a wisteria-covered patio.

Navy football weekends are wonderfully kid-friendly — think grassy hills near the Blue Angel jet and an easy stroll from West Annapolis spots.

Markets, crabs & flowers

  • Giant Food — ~0.5 miles (Lee Airpark Dr, Edgewater).
  • The Fresh Market — ~4 miles (Solomons Island Rd, Annapolis).
  • Sam’s Club — ~7 miles (Generals Hwy, Annapolis).
  • Chesapeake Seafood Market — ~2 miles (Mayo Rd, Edgewater).
  • Pit Boys — ~5 miles (Forest Dr, Annapolis); indoor seating or to-go — soft shell crab is a favorite.
  • Annapolis Farmers Market — Truman Pkwy (~5 miles). One of the oldest in Maryland, with 50+ vendors for oysters, crabs, artisan breads, cheeses, and organic produce. Saturdays 7 AM–noon (April–December); Sundays 9 AM–noon year-round.
  • Annapolis Flower Man — Church Circle downtown (@annapolisflowermanfan).

At the house & by the water

  • Yard games and outdoor toys for all ages — plus a pavilion with string lights and a fire pit for evening hangouts.
  • Community beach & dock nearby for sand, crabbing, and easy time by the water (access details arrive with your stay instructions).
  • Stocked coffee bar with Rise Up coffee, drip, French press, and Nespresso Vertuo.
  • Board games, books, and a laid-back game room for rainy afternoons.

This is a highlight reel from the welcome book — not a check-in packet. Entry, network, and access details stay private until after booking.

Guest reviews

5.0
Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 31 Airbnb reviews · Guest favorite
Category averages reported on Airbnb: cleanliness, accuracy, check-in, communication, location, and value — all near 5.0

What guests say

Selected public guest reviews from the Airbnb listing. First names appear as shared by guests.

“What an incredible stay! The home was absolutely lovely, the neighborhood was amazing, and Nina was a fantastic host. You can tell she has truly thought of every little detail, especially for families traveling with young children. This was hands down one of the most well-stocked and family-friendly Airbnbs we’ve ever stayed in.”
Riley · Family stay
“We had a wonderful time in this beautiful home. Nina, our host, was extremely responsive and so helpful. It’s the perfect home for a family, with lots of indoor and outdoor activities and games for adults and children of all ages. Nina provided so many amenities like fishing poles, a well stocked coffee bar, and extra towels including beach towels.”
Laurette · Family stay
“Top notch air bnb. This host has thought of everything and was very helpful. Home was immaculate and we could not have asked for more. Coffee bar in kitchen is next-level.”
Channing · Family visit
“THIS PLACE WAS THE BEST! Nina was so kind and threw in a few decorations because it was my wedding day which was so incredibly sweet. Everything was clean and ready to use and the house is a great space. Nina was so so quick to respond. I wish I could give this place 6 stars!”
Danni · Bride
“Nina provided all these thoughtful touches for our family trip. She is truly THE BEST host we’ve ever stayed with, and my family deeply appreciates her warmth and hospitality.”
Song · Family stay
“Nina is a very helpful and generous Host. She was available and personally connected before, during, and after, for ANY renter needs. Convenient location and house was extremely well stocked for all needs. plus, fun games for all ages. Highly recommend!!”
Marybeth · Family stay

Quotes pulled from the public Airbnb listing for South River Retreat. See all 31 reviews on Airbnb.

Availability

Check open dates

Grey nights are already booked or blocked. Click your check-in date, then check-out, to prefill the request form. This calendar is read-only — send a request and we’ll confirm.

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Rates & house policies

Rates, fees & house rules

Stays from $379 per night. Nightly rates vary by season and dates — send a request for a personalized quote. Fees (cleaning, pet) are shown in the quote. A fee may apply for single-night stays.

What’s included in your quote

Your quote lists the nightly rate for your dates plus any applicable fees — including cleaning and a dog fee when you bring a pet — so there are no surprises before you book.

How booking works

Request your dates with the form below. Nina will confirm availability and send a quote. Once you agree, she’ll share next steps to reserve your stay.

House rules

  • Pets allowed (maximum 2; dog fee applies)
  • No smoking (including vaping / e-cigarettes)
  • Quiet hours 11:00 PM – 7:00 AM
  • No parties or events
  • No commercial photography or filming
  • Children welcome · suitable for elderly or infirm guests

Good to know

  • Free driveway parking for multiple cars
  • Entire home, yard, and patio are for your use
  • Boat slip available by request in warmer months
  • Family gear, bikes, and projector available upon request

Request your dates

Plan your stay

Tell Nina when you’d like to visit. She’ll confirm availability and send a quote. Guests contact her through this form — no phone number is listed on the site.

Stay request

Mentions of Historic London Town and Gardens (Londontowne) weddings, Naval Academy visits, or family gatherings help Nina plan timing and extras. Check-in details are shared privately after booking — never on this site.

Hosted by Nina

Superhost · Annapolis area · Former teacher and mom of two. Response rate 100% on Airbnb; typically responds within an hour.

About your host

“I am a former teacher and mom of 2 young boys. I love spending time with my friends and family. From boating the South River, going to dinner downtown, or going to the park — I’m happiest with those I love.”

Local to the area. Guests often highlight thoughtful touches, quick replies, and a home that’s ready for kids, grandparents, and dogs alike.