Moonlight on the Bay: Bask in this adults-only retreat on Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory

Laurie Weir

On the shoreline of the Bay of Quinte, just one kilometre from the bridge into Prince Edward County, two boutique spa-like villas offer travellers something rare. It’s a getaway for adults that feels both indulgent and grounded in community.

Welcome to Moonlight on the Bay, owned and operated by Linda and Jonathan Maracle.

The Maracles have lived in Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory since 1988. When the time came to think about retirement, they saw an opportunity to share their corner of the bay with visitors.

“We wanted to create something that connects with the amazing tourism experiences in Prince Edward County, while also bringing attention to Tyendinaga and what it has to offer,” Linda says.

It’s a venture inspired as much by family as by the beautiful place. Jonathan’s brother David Maracle, and his wife KimberLee, encouraged them years ago to try hospitality, as they run their own cabins nearby, Lil Crow Cabin Pods.

Linda says their ideas have always been complementary, not competitive.

Their name, Moonlight on the Bay, came easily. “The moon looks so beautiful on the bay,” Linda explains. “Once a month, for a few days, the full moon shines across the water. We made sure the villas were positioned so one features the sunrise and the other captures the sunset, but both can enjoy the moonlight.”

Guests staying at the Sunrise Villa or Sunset Villa can expect a relaxing experience and thoughtful details: A private fire pit and outdoor space at each villa, dock access with sweeping bay views, a welcome charcuterie board and wine waiting on arrival, locally roasted coffee beans and a wet bar, and interiors designed to create a “wow” moment when you walk in. "We were hoping to capture the aesthetic that landed somewhere between an old-world villa and a modern minimalistic spa."

“It feels like a little spoiled getaway,” Linda says. “You’re treating yourself, but you’re also surrounded by nature; the swans, the water, the stars.”

One of Linda’s favourite parts of hosting is helping guests discover the area. Every visitor receives a personalized list of recommendations when booking. Guests will receive lots of ideas for local food, experiences, and music, cultural stops in Tyendinaga and farm-to-table dining in Prince Edward County.

“I want people to know what’s here,” she says. “It’s important to me that our visitors have a chance to experience our area fully.”

Jonathan adds that guests so far seem to love it here.

Jonathan is a lifelong musician, and he and Linda respect guests’ privacy. “People come here to get away,” Linda says. “But if someone wants to connect, Jonathan is always ready to pick up a guitar.”

It’s this balance between offering comfort and preserving peace that makes Moonlight on the Bay feel like more than just a place to stay.

Their first full season has already been a success. “We’ve been fairly booked up, and we’ve had quite a few repeat customers already,” Linda says. “The comments we’ve received have been amazing. That’s exactly what we hoped for.”

If you’re after a romantic escape, a quiet retreat, or a base to explore the Bay of Quinte and Prince Edward County, Moonlight on the Bay offers boutique comfort with a strong sense of place.

You won’t find Moonlight on the Bay on a booking platform, though. Find them through their Instagram or Facebook social media spaces. Email moonlightonthebay@aol.com for details.

While in Prince Edward County, here are some top picks to visit as recommended by the Moonlight on the Bay hosts:

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