Perched along a quiet, tucked-away stretch of coastline where the waters of Monk’s Head Harbour meet the Northumberland Strait, Island Beach Hideaways offers a distinctive blend of coastal serenity, elevated comfort, and immersive experience. What began as a simple piece of waterfront land has been thoughtfully transformed into a boutique, adult-only glamping retreat – one where guests can unwind beneath the stars, explore the shoreline, indulge in curated experiences, and reconnect with nature without sacrificing luxury.
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For many Nova Scotians, a sense of place runs deep – and for Gillian Sampson, owner of Island Beach Hideaways, that connection to home has shaped both her life and her business.
Raised in the small rural community of Havre Boucher and now living in nearby Pomquet, a French Acadian village just minutes from her property, Gillian’s roots are firmly planted along the province’s northeastern shore. Surrounded by ocean views, tight-knit communities, and a slower pace of life, she developed an early appreciation for both independence and the outdoors.
But her original career path looked very different from where she is today.
After graduating high school, Gillian pursued training in heavy equipment operation – a field that aligned perfectly with her interests. Growing up with two older brothers, she was always drawn to hands-on work and anything mechanical, from dirt bikes to construction equipment.
“I always say if it has an engine, I’m interested,” she laughs.
She spent several years working in construction before her life took an unexpected turn. At 24, a serious car accident left her with long-term injuries, forcing her to step away from the physically demanding career she loved. Around the same time, she experienced a profound personal loss – marking a period defined by both emotional and physical hardship.
“It completely shifted my life,” she says. “I had to figure out what came next.”
During her recovery, Gillian faced not only the emotional toll of losing her career, but also the practical challenges that came with it. Determined to create stability, she designed and built her own home – an experience that would later prove invaluable.
Around that same time, the parcel of land next to her home – a beautiful stretch of waterfront property – became available. Recognizing its potential, she decided to purchase it, even though she didn’t yet have a concrete plan.
“I just knew it was an opportunity,” she says. “I didn’t know what it would become, but I knew I wanted it.”
For several years, the land remained untouched. But the idea that would eventually shape Island Beach Hideaways came from a single, memorable experience. After struggling to secure a booking at a popular dome accommodation – an emerging trend at the time – Gillian finally managed to snag a one-night stay. That night would prove to be a turning point.
“They were fully booked everywhere, and I remember thinking how unique they were,” she says. “But when I actually stayed in one, that’s when it really clicked.”
The experience was unlike anything she had encountered before – immersive, comfortable, and visually stunning. The panoramic views, the cozy yet modern interior, and the feeling of being both sheltered and connected to nature sparked something immediate.
“That was the lightbulb moment,” she says. “I thought, this is it. This is what I want to do.”
Gillian began envisioning how she could bring something similar – but uniquely her own – to her property. True to her personality and outlook on life, she didn’t wait long to act.
“I’ve learned not to wait for the perfect time,” she says. “Life is short, and sometimes you just have to go for it.”
By 2021, construction was underway. But the journey from concept to completion came with its share of challenges. Navigating the complexities of permits, zoning, and municipal regulations proved to be one of the most difficult aspects of the process. Rezoning the property for commercial use alone took seven months – delaying progress and costing her an entire season before opening.
“There’s a lot of red tape,” she explains. “And when you’re new to it, it can be overwhelming.”
Unexpected setbacks added to the pressure, including a costly situation that required her to relocate a newly built structure due to regulatory issues.
“That was one of the hardest moments,” she recalls. “It wasn’t something I ever anticipated.”
Financially, the project also exceeded expectations.
“On paper, everything looks one way,” she says. “But in reality, there are always more costs, more variables, more things you didn’t plan for.”
Despite the obstacles, Gillian remained committed to her vision – drawing on her resilience, resourcefulness, and the entrepreneurial mindset she developed growing up. Her parents both owned small businesses, and from a young age, she was exposed to the realities of running one. Whether helping out or earning her own spending money, she learned the value of hard work and independence early on.
“That definitely planted the seed,” she says.
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y May 2023, Island Beach Hideaways officially opened its doors. Today, the property features four thoughtfully designed geodesic domes – Wilderness, Beachcomber, Nautical, and Tranquility – each offering a slightly different layout and atmosphere while maintaining a consistent standard of comfort and style. Inside, guests will find fully equipped kitchens, modern bathrooms, loft spaces, and carefully curated décor that reflects each dome’s theme. Outside, private hot tubs, fire pits, and gazebos create a space for relaxation and connection. Large panoramic windows bring the outdoors in, while skylights above invite guests to stargaze from the comfort of their bed or loft.
“I wanted people to feel like they were escaping, but not sacrificing anything,” Gillian explains. “You still have all the comforts of home, but you’re in a completely different environment.”
That balance between nature and luxury lies at the heart of the Island Beach Hideaways experience. But, what truly sets the retreat apart is the level of care and personalization woven into every stay. From the moment guests book, they are welcomed with thoughtful communication, detailed information, and access to a digital guest app designed to enhance their visit. Upon arrival, personalized touches – like custom welcome signs – create an immediate sense of connection.
“It might seem like a small thing,” Gillian says, “but those are the things people remember.”
Guests also have the option to enhance their stay with a wide range of curated add-ons and packages. From romantic getaways and birthday surprises to charcuterie boards, pizza kits, and wellness experiences, each offering is designed to elevate the experience. Many of these packages highlight local partnerships, incorporating products and services from nearby businesses – from butchers and restaurants to artisans and specialty food producers.
“I really wanted to support the community,” she says. “There are so many amazing local businesses here, and this is a way to showcase them.”
That sense of collaboration extends beyond the domes themselves. In 2025, Gillian expanded the property to include a general store and gift shop, featuring locally made goods and artisan products. Alongside it, an ice cream and bubble tea stand offers a fun, welcoming space for both guests and locals to enjoy. For a community that hadn’t seen a similar offering in decades, the addition has become a meaningful gathering point.
“It’s not just for guests,” she says. “It’s for everyone.”
Despite the growth and added responsibilities, Gillian remains deeply involved in every aspect of the business. From managing bookings and guest communication to overseeing operations and stepping in wherever needed, she continues to take a hands-on approach.
“I wear all the hats,” she says. “And I think that’s something people notice.”
For those considering entering the tourism or hospitality industry, Gillian offers straightforward advice rooted in her own experience.
“Don’t wait,” she says. “If you have an idea and you believe in it, go for it – because the perfect time doesn’t exist.”
At the same time, she emphasizes the importance of preparation and awareness – particularly when it comes to finances and partnerships.
“Get multiple quotes. Do your research. And make sure you’re protecting yourself,” she adds. “There’s a lot that goes into something like this.”
She also acknowledges the personal challenges that can arise along the way, including the strain that business can place on relationships.
“It’s not always easy,” she says. “But you learn a lot.”
Looking ahead, Gillian is choosing to focus on sustainability rather than rapid expansion. After several years of building, growing, and pushing forward, 2026 represents a shift – a chance to pause, refine, and fully embrace what she has created.
“I went all in for five years,” she says. “Now I’m taking a breath.”
Still, the foundation she has built leaves the door open for future possibilities. Much like the coastal landscape that surrounds it – shaped gradually over time – Island Beach Hideaways continues to evolve, guided by intention, creativity, and a strong sense of place.
“It’s peaceful here,” Gillian reflects. “That’s what I wanted to create.”
And for those who make the journey, it’s more than just a place to stay – it’s a chance to slow down, reset, and experience something truly unique along Nova Scotia’s shoreline.
by Mary Austin