This was a truly lovely stay for my extended family. We have stayed all along the Gulf Coast in multiple states over the years. Everyone agreed this was probably the nicest property we have rented and it was not even the most expensive. Everything was clean and the kitchen was well-appointed (we ate all of our meals at home). The host immediately responded to a minor concern. There were more places to sleep than our family of 12 needed.
The beauty of the view from the porch and the private beach cannot be overstated. The girls spoke late into the evening on the porch swing or on the upstairs balcony.
We kayaked, paddleboarded, and fished every single day. The neighborhood was quiet. There were plenty of birds and fish to watch. (I actually kayaked within ten feet of a pod of dolphins in the Sound!) If we had brought along younger children, there were nets and boogie boards available at the house for use. Kids would like seeing the shrimp and hermit crabs, too.
If anyone expects perfectly clear water, that is not usual for the MS Sound, but a day trip to the south side of any of the barrier islands could scratch that itch. The water is predictable and easy for swimming and wading. Several of our family went deep sea fishing and loved that experience, as well.
I really cannot say enough good things about this property. If I could rank it higher, I would.