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Do you prefer the sound side or the
oceanfront? This is an important question to consider as rates for
properties often increase with a stroll across the street toward the beach.
While a beachfront home offers scenic views and an easy commute from your
door to the waves, a different location, while just as convenient, might
save you a bundle. If you have your own boat or are planning on renting one,
a house on the sound might be perfect for you. While the sunrise over the
Atlantic is breathtaking, the sunset over the sound is equally alluring.
During your stay, you can expect to have the basic appliances supplied by
the owner of the property. Most rentals offer cable, telephone, heat and
air, and come fully furnished. Dishes and cooking utensils are almost
universally provided, but checking with your rental agency is always a good
idea before setting out on vacation. Certain spots also offer activity
centers such as gyms, swimming pools, tennis courts and numerous other forms
of recreation.
More often than not, guests are required to supply their own sheets, towels,
cleaning supplies and beach gear. Your rental agency should have a detailed
checklist of items you will need during your stay. Almost anything too
cumbersome to bring along (bicycles, kayaks, etc.) can be rented for a small
fee. See
our Sports, Fitness and Parks or
Watersports chapters or ask your rental
agency for details on which business offer these services.
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There are a number of rules to follow when
renting a beach home from a rental agency. The large majority of these
properties are second homes for their owners, and renting them out means
trusting their agency to choose responsible renters. Each agency has its own
specific policies, and vacationing parties should make themselves aware of
these policies and their consequences.
Many area vacation homes require the minimum age of renters to be 21,
however some extend that limit to 25, often excepting married couples under
that age. Be sure to check with your particular agency prior to setting your
heart on a vacation home. Large groups of young renters can often encounter
resistance due to damage concerns. Large house parties are discouraged and
many rental agreements prohibit them altogether, especially at the smaller,
quieter beaches. Breaching this area of your contract can easily result in
the forfeiture of your deposit and the instant termination of your rental
agreement. The bottom line is being respectful of other people's property,
privacy and peace and quiet.
While cleaning services may be offered upon checkout for a small fee, the
agencies expect you to leave no trace of your visit. Oftentimes, a portion
of your deposit goes to these services should you fail to leave things as
you found them, and the agency is at liberty to determine these fees. As is
expected, you should treat your “home away from home” as though it was your
own.
While most people own cell phones these days, the majority of area
properties have a telephone for your use. Responsible use is expected and
often agencies will block outgoing long distance calls to prevent abuse of
phone service.
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Everyone loves their
pets, but more often than not, rental properties aren’t all that
accommodating when it comes to our furry friends. There are some
properties that allow pets, but those are exceedingly rare these days. If
leaving your pet at home isn’t a possibility, area kennels and “doggie
daycare” services will look after your cherished companion. However, most
towns have long since forbidden animals on the beach, especially in summer. Click on our
Traveling With Pets page for assistance in resolving your animal
concerns.
Among those
concerns should be the issue of fleas, as they present a major problem
during the warms months. Fumigation and pest control will take a chunk out
of your deposit, so please be conscious of your pet’s condition. If you
decide to roll the dice and ignore pet policies, some agencies will demand
your immediate dismissal.
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