Step into island time on Holly Bluff Island, the last remaining private island on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. Tucked just off the southeastern coast of Northampton County, south of Smith Island, this rare 183-acre retreat offers a magical blend of history, serenity, and untamed natural beauty. Priced at $1,795,000, this is your chance to own an unforgettable piece of Virginia’s coastal heritage.
A Storied History
Originally established in the late 1800s, Holly Bluff Island has served as a beloved hunting and fishing camp for generations. It has long been a secluded haven for sportsmen and nature lovers alike—an escape where memories are made under wide skies and across marshy bays.
The Homes and Structures
This unique island features two homesites:
- Main House (circa late 1800s)
A classic island residence offering 4 spacious bedrooms, each with sweeping views of the surrounding marshlands and bay. The house includes 2 full bathrooms, a generous eat-in kitchen, and a cozy sitting room perfect for soaking in the scenery. Its historic charm is matched only by its setting—surrounded by wind-swept grasses and tranquil waters. - Guest House / Former Hunting Camp (circa 1910)
Originally built to host fishermen and hunters, this guest house features 2 bunk rooms, 1 private bedroom, a half bath, an outdoor shower, and a modest kitchen and sitting area. It’s a charming, rustic space ready for visitors or adventure-seekers. - Additional Buildings
The island includes two large utility barns near the dock, plus a small utility building behind the main house, perfect for gear, tools, or storage.
Off-Grid Living
Holly Bluff operates sustainably and independently:
- Electricity is provided through a battery-powered system charged by generator.
- Water supply comes from rainwater, collected in large reservoirs and fed into the homes via gravity.
- The island features two docks—one currently in use, while the second requires rebuilding.
A Sanctuary for Wildlife
Holly Bluff is not just a private escape—it’s a vital habitat and migratory stop for:
- Monarch butterflies
- Ospreys, bald eagles, and other birds of prey
- Ducks, geese, marsh hens, and countless shorebirds
- Seals, which take refuge in the island’s coves during the winter
Its uplands and expansive marshes provide rich environments for native flora and fauna, making it a dream for conservationists and outdoor enthusiasts.
Endless Outdoor Recreation
Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, Holly Bluff Island delivers:
- Fishing for speckled trout, redfish, flounder, and striped bass
- Duck and goose hunting
- Bird watching and wildlife photography
- Kayaking, boating, and crabbing through protected tidal creeks and channels
- Miles of untouched beaches on nearby Smith and Mockhorn Islands, accessible by boat
This is a place to truly disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in the rhythms of nature.
A Rare Legacy Property
Imagine the stories that have unfolded here over the past century—gatherings around the fire, early morning hunts, quiet evenings listening to the sounds of the marsh. Now, it’s your turn to create your chapter in Holly Bluff’s remarkable history. Whether you restore it as a family retreat, a private eco-lodge, or a once-in-a-lifetime getaway, Holly Bluff Island is an irreplaceable gem.
Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to own a piece of Virginia’s wild and storied shoreline.
