Where it all started

Our story begins several decades and many miles ago, in a very special home on Gibson Island, located in Maryland on the Chesapeake Bay. This simple white cottage with a shingled roof and swinging screen doors was pure magic to Bees Nees owner Katie Denton, whose family spent happy summers running free by the shore.


 
Katie and her Dad

Katie and her Dad

The Patterson family loved a good party, they loved to sail, and they loved the memories they made here at the original Bees Nees—so much so, Katie dreamed of recreating that rich family tradition with her own collection of cottages. Bees Nees was born. 

Now the essence of the original family beach home can be found through Bees Nees, a boutique collection of vacation homes located in Southern Shores on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. For those who seek a soothing and special beach vacation, the Treehouse and the Cottage are a dream come true. 

Young Katie on her father’s sailboat

Young Katie on her father’s sailboat

Here, it’s your turn to make memories that last a lifetime. From the moment you step through our doors, you enter a space where you feel wonderfully at home—with a warm and timeless elegance, and lovely curated touches. Every detail is thoughtfully considered, and our immaculate homes are stylishly designed to deliver the ultimate seaside escape.

Above all, Bees Nees embraces true Southern hospitality. We pride ourselves for being next-level hosts, and we emphasize simplicity and ease. From our online booking system to check-in, from insider recommendations and local knowledge, we create a connection without sacrificing unparalleled comfort and care for our visitors.


at the heart of it all

An idea born from the magical summers spent with family on the Chesapeake Bay with her family. Katie Denton, has recreated those experiences with a curated collection of getaways, called Bees Nees. Katie is at the heart of Bees Nees and makes it all happen.


 

Katie Denton

FOUNDER & OWNER

Born in Baltimore and raised in Virginia Beach, founder Katie Denton has always loved living life on the water. She grew up in the close-knit Patterson family, with parents who fostered a strong sense of family through travel and time spent together. Whether they were boating or biking, catching fireflies in the backyard or swimming in the ocean, the Patterson family lived large. 

Her love of travel has persevered, and as the mother of three small children, she has an even stronger understanding of the importance of family. Katie also knows the significance of creating a timeless home. It’s a skill she learned from her beloved grandmother—the ultimate hostess—who imparted her granddaughter with a love of fine linens, fresh scents and classic taste. This timeless hospitality can be seen in each Bees Nees home—in the lovely unexpected details, in the unpretentious stylishness, in the feeling that you are always welcome home.