Kraken Up: Newly Updated Oceanfront Escape with Private Pool & Hot Tub provides a hot tub and more. Guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.
Reviews
7.67.6 out of 10
Good
Entire home
5 bedrooms6 bathrooms227 sq m
Popular amenities
Ocean view
Pool
Spa pool
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Add dates for prices
About this property
Kraken Up: Newly Updated Oceanfront Escape with Private Pool & Hot Tub
New in our program, this home has many great reviews from past guests.
Step right onto the sand from your backyard at this oceanfront vacation rental! Enjoy a private heated pool nestled among swaying palm trees, relax in the ocean-view hot tub, or rinse off in the enclosed hot water outdoor shower after a salty swim. With two levels of expansive oceanfront decks and sunset-facing balconies that offer breathtaking views over the Intracoastal Waterway, this home is a dream for beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers alike.
Inside, the open-concept, vaulted-ceiling living area invites connection, laughter, and relaxation. Cozy up with a movie on the large smart TV, challenge each other to a board game, or just soak in the panoramic ocean views from the plush seating—perfect for unwinding after a day in the sun.
The dining area features a large farmhouse table that seats your entire group, and the fully stocked kitchen includes all cookware and utensils needed for family meals. For your morning pleasure, we've included a standard coffee maker and espresso machine with milk frother.
With five bedrooms—each with a private ensuite bath—everyone enjoys their own peaceful space. The sleeping arrangements include four king suites with premium bedding (three are oceanfront with deck access), one double bunk room perfect for kids, and a queen sofa bed in the main living space. All bedrooms include Roku smart TVs, ceiling fans, and closets, creating a private oasis for every guest.
We've added everything to make your stay seamless—wet-weather entry, ample covered parking, a laundry room with washer, dryer, and utility sink, high-speed Wi-Fi for remote work or streaming, and an outdoor pool shower for quick rinses.
It's not just a place to stay—it's where beachfront sunrises, family dinners, poolside afternoons, and starry nights in the hot tub turn into lifelong memories. From every room and deck, you're surrounded by the sights, sounds, and serenity of the coast.
THINGS TO KNOW Private pool opens 5/1 and closes for the season on 10/30. It will otherwise be unavailable for guest use. Pool heat is available for an additional $60/night fee, with at least 24-48 hours advance notice. Pool Heat cannot be purchased from Mid June to Mid September.
Property amenities
Beach
On the beach
Pool/Spa
Heated pool
Hot tub
Private pool
Internet
Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transport
Parking on site
Kitchen
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dishwasher
Hob
Microwave
Oven
Refrigerator
Spices
Toaster
Dining
Dining table
Bedrooms
5 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided
Bathroom
5.5 bathrooms
Jetted bathtub
Shower
Towels provided
Living spaces
Dining table
Living room
Entertainment
DVD player
Stereo
TV with cable/satellite channels
Outdoor areas
Balcony
Laundry
Washing machine
Comfort
Air conditioning
Heating
Pets
Service animals only (pets not allowed)
Suitability/Accessibility
Smoke-free property
Location highlights
Near a hospital
Near the ocean
On the waterfront
Things to do
Heated pool
Cycling nearby
Ecotours nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Motor boating nearby
Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
Swimming nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Unit size: 2,444 square feet
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You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Pets
Pets not allowed (service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees)
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
Note from host: Children allowed
Events
Events allowed
Events Allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
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
Parties and events are allowed on site
Note from host: Events Allowed
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
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
About the area
Located in North Topsail Beach, this holiday home is on the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Holly Shelter Game Land and Surf City Beach, while Seacoast Art Gallery and Thurston Art Gallery are cultural highlights. Ohana Paddle Sports and Thomas Tackle and Seafood are also worth visiting. Power boating and surfing/body boarding offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling and ecotours nearby. Visit our Sneads Ferry travel guide
Does Kraken Up: Newly Updated Oceanfront Escape with Private Pool & Hot Tub have a pool?
Yes, this property has a pool. Pool types include heated pools.
Is Kraken Up: Newly Updated Oceanfront Escape with Private Pool & Hot Tub pet-friendly?
No, only service animals are welcome at the property.
How much is parking at Kraken Up: Newly Updated Oceanfront Escape with Private Pool & Hot Tub?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Kraken Up: Newly Updated Oceanfront Escape with Private Pool & Hot Tub?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Kraken Up: Newly Updated Oceanfront Escape with Private Pool & Hot Tub?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Kraken Up: Newly Updated Oceanfront Escape with Private Pool & Hot Tub located?
Nestled on the beach, this North Topsail Beach holiday home is within 3 mi (5 km) of Surf City Beach, Sea Haven Beach and North Topsail Beach. North Shore Golf Course and Ashe Island are also within 6 miles (10 km).
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Kraken Up: Newly Updated Oceanfront Escape with Private Pool & Hot Tub Reviews
Reviews
Good
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers 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.
Beautiful home in great oceanfront location. Spacious with large living area and comfortable beds. Love having a bathroom in every bedroom. Quiet area of Topsail Island.
Tammy H.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2024
From a partner site
8/10 Good
erica E.
10 Oct 2023
Beautiful Views!!!!!!
We loved the hot tub, how close we were to the water, and everyone had their own bathroom.
erica E.
From a partner site
8/10 Good
Billy L.
18 Apr 2024
Great Find
One of our favorite beach houses. Beautiful views. Nice amenities. Needs some normal updates typical of most rental homes.
Billy L.
From a partner site
8/10 Good
Lynn-Ann D.
21 Sept 2023
Great Location and Beach
This home is in a quiet, non-dense location. Access to the beach is awesome via private deck stair/walkway. Very nice sunrise views and awesome sunset views as the front of the house overlooks marshes across the street rather than other buildings.
Lynn-Ann D.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023
From a partner site
8/10 Good
Lori P.
10 Aug 2024
Perfect flow
The flow of the floor plan was perfect for my family. The open floor plan with the living room, dinning room and kitchen made family time even more special. The grounds however need some major attention!
Lori P.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Matthew P.
10 Sept 2024
Great House with Pool
We loved the location right on the beach as well as having a pool. We loved that the 5-bedroom house had three king beds that are perfect for our large family of six couples with the bunk room and queen for the six kids. Each bedroom having a bathroom is a plus as well. The home needs some cosmetic repairs (paint, touch-ups, etc.) that I'm sure will be addressed in the off-season. The upstairs A/C went out the first day we arrived but I will say that the local team brought in some temporary A/C units that helped some and provided a discount as well. I thought that was the right thing to do and would therefore recommend Vacasa to anyone for handling something that was out of their control in a professional manor.
Matthew P.
Verified
6/10 Okay
Betty C.
29 Sept 2024
Liked: Location
Disliked: Communication
Beautiful location with safety issues
Beautiful location with private pool!
The deck is a safety issue, with exposed nails, multiple screws used instead of replacing a board that tilts/bends down when you step on it. You will use the deck a lot, so it actually matters.
Central AC was broken, so individual units in bedrooms in the sliding glass doors, so you can’t lock them and have AC while you sleep. Dishwasher didn’t work the entire week, although I reached out several times.
Outside of the issues the place isn’t in great repair, but I don’t need perfect. Make it safe, and I’d be back!
Betty C.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
DONNA L.
1 Oct 2023
Perfect week at the beach!
Loved the pool and the hot shower! The pool heat was worth every penny, kids swam for hours every day! Lots of pool and beach toys, nice big hot tub, glorious view from top deck and living / dining area (both ocean and bay) and first time I've ever seen CLEAN windows, never were hazy from the salt spray. We enjoyed the 3 big couches (usually not enough room for everyone to sit) and big dining table. Comfortable beds and quiet at night. Perfect for grandkids, parents and grandparents (we had 14 in all). First time renting from Vacasa and they were wonderful. Linens included and beds made, toilet paper in all bathrooms plus soap/shampoo, kitchen well stocked with spices, oil, etc, dishwasher detergent and dish soap, sponges etc. Super clean! We called regarding the AC and fridge and they were super responsive. Follow instructions on the fridge that explains everything. The house has obviously been through a lot by end of season (scuffs on walls, stains on carpet, decks are weathered, etc) but we really enjoyed the layout and really good price and distressed furniture style. The interior stairs smell musty but we used the outside stairs so wasn't a problem. Some of the floors have subfloor weak points so have to be careful (one piece of laminate cracked). The dryer door didn't shut and they came right away to fix, and there was some debris in the pool from the storm and they came and cleaned also. All in all best house we've stayed in 10+ years of coming to n topsail and outer banks!
Loved everything. Big spacious living room and kitchen combo! Love bathrooms in every bedroom and my grandkids love the pool. Also great unobstructed view of sunset! Great place!
Lori P.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Megan D.
10 Aug 2025
Kracken Up was just perfect.
This clean, fresh, spacious, family friendly home did not disappoint. After parking go right up to the top level and take in the amazing views of both the Ocean and Marshland. It will take your breath away. The air conditioning worked amazing. Having beachfront access, a clean cool pool, and a fun hot tub just made our vacation top notch. North Topsail Island is a beautiful treasure and this property is the perfect spot to appreciate the island. Vacasa made check in and check out seamless and we loved having clean sheets and ample towels for the week.
Megan D.
From a partner site
4/10 Poor
Kim E.
27 Oct 2024
Kim
The pool. This house could be stellar, but needs a lot of maintenance.
Kim E.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
James G.
9 Jul 2025
Nicely Upgraded and Spacious Home in a lovely spot on the island with private beach access.
We really had a great time at this home. It was apparent that the new owners have recently spent a good bit of time making some upgrades to remedy some of the older pieces of feedback and reviews. The home was very spacious and accommodated our party of 7 nicely. It was great having a dog friendly home, and this was the first time that our Airedale accompanied us to the beach. He's not sure if he's a beach dog yet, but it was a great memory for our family to have him with us. We found the home to be clean and well laid out with all the necessary items one would expect in the kitchen that functioned well. The views from the front of the house facing the intercoastal waterway and the back of the home on the oceanfront were beautiful. The area of beach it has a private access to was largely quaint and not very crowded, and we really enjoyed the private pool as well. Thanks for helping us have a wonderful vacation!
James G.
From a partner site
4/10 Poor
Kim B.
14 May 2024
House needs deep clean!
House needs updates and deep clean!
Kim B.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024
From a partner site
6/10 Okay
Rodger S.
3 Jul 2023
Needs repairs badly
All exterior guard and handrails are unsafe
Rodger S.
From a partner site
2/10 Terrible
Rodger S.
16 Sept 2024
Stay away
House is falling apart. Rented this place the last 3-4 yrs. Left info each year regarding issues with no results. Rear guardrails need replacing, rear exterior steps are falling apart. No amount of screws can fix the issues present. Ac is not functional. Portable ac units ate inadequate and noisy. Shingles are missing on roof. Md is everywhere inside and out. Kitchen cookware needs replacing. Stove is terribly dirty. Furniture is stained all over. Hot tub cover is destroyed. Pool was filthy. Multiple leaks have causes ceiling stains throughout.
Rodger S.
From a partner site
4/10 Poor
Janet H.
24 Aug 2024
House needs updates
Vacasa staff were very responsive when called upon, but the house needs updates. Furniture, carpets, and walls are dirty. Floor sags badly in places. Kitchen is not stocked well - two small/med cookie sheets; no casserole dishes; no serving bowls or platters; not enough forks, individual bowls, or cooking pots. Hot tub cover is too small and is broken. Weeds around the pool are 2 feet high and encroach on walking/sitting area. Interior hallway from ground to house smells awful; we did not use it after unloading on the first day. The online pictures must be several years old. The house does not look cared for.
Janet H.
From a partner site
4/10 Poor
Nicole B.
7 Feb 2023
Great location, home in disrepair, rude maintenance
Outside of the great location, we would never rent this home again - it is is need of significant maintenance, which was stated during one of the many phone calls made to vacasa. The photos in the listing look to be at least 10 years old judging by the current state of the property. There is no built-in indoor / outdoor speaker system as stated in the listing.
Upon arrival, the home was poorly cleaned. Many of the walls are badly scuffed, scratched and dented. The stairway carpet is stained and filthy. There is water damage on most ceilings and peeling paint / mold / mildew in the bathrooms. The hot tub had hair and debris stuck in the jets. The “landscaping” and grounds were full of random garbage, cans, glass bottles, and broken toys that were not cleaned up by previous renters or the maintenance team. The area surrounding the pool is also lacking upkeep and one of the chaise chairs was ripped and tossed to the side.
The entire deck has loose and rotted boards with screws sticking out, lots of rough areas for nasty splinters, and the deck itself shakes and sways when walking around on it - to the point where you feel it inside the home. There is also an electrical shock hazard with the outdoor light switch by the right side parking bay - our friend got a mild shock turning the light on for us to grill dinner
The pool heat we paid for kept shutting off because the filters are old, clogged and keep being reused. The pool maintenance man was rude and during his 2nd visit, when asked if there was a replacement filter, just walked away from us as we were asking why it keeps turning off. In the end, after multiple phone calls and texts with vacasa, the maintenance man just removed the filter and left them all (3 of them) next to the unit, which kept the heat on but allowed to pool to get really dirty and murky by the end of our stay. It looked like a pool sand filter (large beige domed unit) was disconnected at some point and just left at the bottom of the stairs by the fence.
In the end, we made the best of this house despite all its shortcomings, but would be really hesitant to rent from vacasa / treasure realty again in the future.