The House

Tarbox Cottage is a remarkably well-preserved example of Greek Revival vernacular architecture, and it is best known for the marine murals decorating the main stairwell of the house. The house has two floors, with kitchen and dining room on the main floor at the back, and two, south-facing parlors on the front of the house facing the ocean with its constantly changing views, depending on the stage of the ten-foot tides. The many windows give this wonderful old house a bright and airy atmosphere. The front hall has antique murals painted on the walls and up the staircase to the second floor. This folk art is greatly prized by the few families who are fortunate enough to have such treasures preserved. The front staircase leads up to the two front bedrooms and full bath with claw foot tub. The master bedroom has a king bed that can be broken down into two extra-long single beds. The bedroom across the hall has a bunk bed (two twin-size beds), perfect for kids; there is a desk nook in the upstairs hall. All of these have expansive views of the waterfront. A second staircase, at the back of the house, leads to the spacious third bedroom and bath (with shower). This has a king bed that can be broken down into two extra-long singles; this bedroom has views of fields, woods and ancient stone walls. New amenities include a third, ½ bath in the shed behind the kitchen on the main floor, and also an outdoor shower.