Sanctuary

Welcome to The Sanctuary

For groups who want to spread out a little more, relax in style, or create unforgettable memories together, we’re excited to offer The Sanctuary as an optional add-on to your stay. For an additional fee, you can include this beautiful, attached historic church sanctuary building—a one-of-a-kind gathering space that blends modern comfort with timeless character.

Recently renovated, the Sanctuary has been lovingly transformed into a large, “living room” style space that’s perfect for bringing people together. Furnished with four sofa beds and two blow-up mattresses, there’s plenty of room for extra guests to sleep comfortably. The space also features two large dining/game tables where you can share meals, play board games late into the night, or even hold group discussions and workshops. For entertainment, you’ll find a massive 85-inch TV paired with a Sonos sound system—ideal for movie nights, streaming the big game, business presentations or creating the perfect ambiance with music during your stay.

Toward the back of the building is a private master suite, designed as a cozy retreat within the retreat. This suite comes complete with its own full bathroom and a private covered deck, giving you a peaceful escape when you need a little quiet. In addition, the Sanctuary side of the property includes an extra half bath, making it even easier to accommodate larger groups without feeling crowded.

What makes the Sanctuary truly special, though, is the way it reflects the heart and history of our family. The décor throughout the space is filled with unique artifacts, natural treasures, and local art that we’ve collected over decades of living in and loving the Crystal Coast. Every piece tells a story, and together they create an atmosphere that feels both personal and welcoming—like stepping into a home that’s been cherished for generations.

The versatility of the Sanctuary makes it a wonderful fit for all kinds of gatherings. Families often choose it for reunions, with plenty of room for kids to play, grandparents to relax, and everyone to come together at mealtimes. It’s also an inspiring space for church youth groups and adult retreats, offering both shared community areas and private corners for reflection. Scouts and youth programs love the flexibility and the connection to nature, while yoga and wellness retreats find the Sanctuary’s spacious design perfect for stretching, meditating, or simply soaking in the calm. Even small business teams use the Sanctuary as a creative space for off-site meetings, brainstorming sessions, or team-building retreats.

One of the best parts of staying here is the location. Once you’ve parked your car, you may find you don’t need it again for a while. Beaufort is a wonderfully walkable town, and you can easily explore on foot, by bike, or even by kayak. For those bringing boats, there’s plenty of parking for trailers, and the open water is just minutes away. If the beach is calling, you’ll be happy to know that both Radio Island and Atlantic Beach are a quick 5–15 minute drive.

For a true Crystal Coast adventure, you can also hop on a ferry from Front Street to explore some of the area’s most breathtaking natural treasures. Visit the Rachel Carson Nature Preserve for a chance to see wild ponies, head to Shackleford Banks for pristine sands and dolphin sightings, or spend the day at Cape Lookout, known for its iconic lighthouse and unspoiled beauty.

As your hosts, we live nearby and love sharing this special corner of North Carolina with our guests. We’re always happy to offer recommendations for local restaurants, hidden gems, and can’t-miss activities. Our greatest joy is seeing families, friends, and groups experience the same peace and beauty that have kept us rooted here for so many years.

We truly hope you’ll enjoy The Sanctuary—a warm, welcoming, and unforgettable extension of your stay. It’s more than just a building; it’s a space for laughter, connection, and memories that last a lifetime.