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RARE FIND Historic Waterfront on Hood Canal, Olympic National Park

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Sweeping, unimpeded water & wildlife views on widest expanse of Hood Canal
Upper deck with expansive water views
Charming Nantucket Style
Historic 1920
Interior detail

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 6224.1 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Air conditioning
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Map
Brinnon, WA
  • Dosewallips State Park
    ‪9 min walk‬
  • Hood Canal
  • Pleasant Harbor State Park
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Poulsbo, WA (PUL)
    ‪58 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

MAIN FLOOR

1 Queen Bed

MASTER SUITE

1 King Bed

PRIVATE LOWER LEVEL

1 Queen Bed

3 bathrooms

MAIN FLOOR BATHROOM..ANTIQUE PORCELAIN TUB W/SHOWER RING

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

MASTER SUITE

Toilet · Shower only · Jetted bathtub

PRIVATE VIEW SUITE

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

RARE FIND Historic Waterfront on Hood Canal, Olympic National Park

This quaint Nantucket waterfront charmer was constructed by T.B. Balch in 1920, one of the original founders of Brinnon. It is rumored to be the closest to the water in all of Jefferson County. Great care has been taken to provide historically romantic ambiance. Stay at the only nationally registered, historic waterfront vacation rental in close proximity to Seattle and Tacoma, and one of the rare few in the Pacific Northwest.
A photographer's playground where the Olympics meet the crystal clear expansive waters of Hood Canal in Brinnon, WA near Pleasant Harbor Marina. Fronting over a 1,000 ft of wildlife and shell rich beach and many wonders behind in the Olympic National Park.

Intriguing wildlife observation and continually evolving views that will materialize before you. AWE inspiring and sweeping Hood Canal with breathtaking skyline color changes at sunset and sunrise that include Mt. Rainier. Resident harbor seals and their pups are always fun to watch along with the otter family that lives at the base of your beach stairs. Great fun to spot beaver and local Roosevelt Elk herd that drop by the beach and yard. Numerous bald eagles that fly right outside your window, and can be quite a thrill when flying just feet away.

Located on the Pacific Northwest Whale Trail along with numerous fascinating bird varieties from 4 ft tall herons, osprey, kingfisher, numerous hummingbirds, and everything in between. A true birding paradise with some gorgeous varieties, and birding books on site.

4 kayaks are provided (with life preservers) takes you even closer to immersing with resident wildlife, or stroll the shell rich beach enjoyed by all ages. Venture onto acres of tidelands teeming with fascinating marine life at low tide.
Hiking, mountain biking, and spectacular views can be enjoyed in the world renowned OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK nearby. In close proximity, you will find: Olympic National Park, Mt. Rainier, Mt. Baker, the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges and most of all Puget Sound.
Enjoyable Dosewallips State Park, with historic logging train trails is a close 3 minute walk.

A romantic and intimate favorite with singles, couples, honeymooners and small groups. 4 private sleeping areas, with 2 en-suite bathrooms, and a third bathroom is in close proximity to the main floor bedroom. One level living area on the main floor provides ease of movement for those with limited mobility. Please be advised that there are lots of stairs. Stairs go up to the master from the main level and again down to the lower level. There are also stairs from the deck to the water.

Wine tasting, casinos, exceptional Olympic Mountain ice cream, and sampling at unique distilleries are also available. Visit quaint, historic seaports, with gorgeous Victorians. Hurricane Ridge, Whale charters (in season), or ferry over to B.C. For out-of-state guests, this centralized location allows for the touring of the very best of Western Washington. Pure relaxation is always a desirable option. There is something for everyone. The list is virtually endless......

THE LITTLE EXTRAS.....Cleaning takes place the day of your arrival for a home that is warm, inviting and low allergen. Wood starter package for a crackling fire and kitchen, dining and bath products provided. High powered ZOOM binoculars that bring wildlife and Trident sub activity up close and personal is always a treat. Rubber boots and fishing poles are just a few of the extras. So many amenities from beautiful stemware, numerous spices, to built in magnifying mirrors in all bathrooms, and romantic atmosphere by candlelight. The large bonfire ring with built in split log seating near the moonlit waters edge are memories waiting to be made. Don't miss the plump, sweet blackberries on site mid to late summer.

Best Bar in America is a close three minute walk at the Geoduck Restaurant, with waterfront deck seating. Additionally, the Half Way House Restaurant/Bakery offers legendary pies/desserts, and home style cooking. Fabulous pizza, sandwiches and salads, with indoor/outdoor waterfront seating is now available at Pleasant Harbor Marina less than 2 minutes away.

Although the home sleeps 8, the nightly rate is based on 4 guests. Additional guests are charged $39.00/night. This is due to additional wear on the 100+ year old home.
PETS ARE NOT ALLOWED.

Step back to a simpler time and experience a unique combination showcasing history, wildlife, Olympic National Park, Hood Canal, and the best of the Pacific NW in nature's paradise.
PLEASE CLICK '"CONTACT MANAGER" FOR RESERVATIONS ON THIS PROPERTY........

Property manager

Suzanne Wuhl
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 30
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Lots of stairs
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Events

No events allowed
No day guests allowed. Registered guests only.
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
The rates are based on 4 guests per night. Each additional guest is charged $39/night up to max 8 guests.
Beach is closed to Oyster/Clam farming by the State of Washington for health reasons. DO NOT remove any shellfish from Brinnon Beach.
Within 48 hours after booking, guest must have chat with owner via inbox otherwise subject to cancel.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: No day guests allowed. Registered guests only.
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Brinnon

Located in Brinnon, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the beach. Port of Silverdale and Island Lake Park are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Silverdale Waterfront Park and Northwest Golf Range. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Brinnon, WA

What's nearby

  • Dosewallips State Park - 9 min walk - 0.8 km
  • Pleasant Harbor State Park - 2 min drive - 2.5 km
  • Triton Cove State Park - 11 min drive - 11.8 km
  • Bainbridge Island Ferry Dock - 74 min drive - 85.1 km
  • Scenic Beach State Park - 79 min drive - 88.9 km

Getting around

  • Seattle, WA (LKE-Lake Union Seaplane Base) - 118 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Halfway House Restaurant/Rv Pk - ‬20 min walk
  • ‪Seabeck Bay Cafe - ‬75 min drive
  • ‪Jefferson County Parks & Recreation District - ‬58 min drive
  • ‪Geoduck Restauraunt & Lounge - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Seabeck Marina - ‬74 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is RARE FIND Historic Waterfront on Hood Canal, Olympic National Park pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at RARE FIND Historic Waterfront on Hood Canal, Olympic National Park?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at RARE FIND Historic Waterfront on Hood Canal, Olympic National Park?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is RARE FIND Historic Waterfront on Hood Canal, Olympic National Park located?

Nestled on the beach, this Brinnon holiday home is within 3 mi (5 km) of Dosewallips State Park, Pleasant Harbor State Park and Olympic National Forest. Robbinswold Beach Access and Ranger Hole Trailhead are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 180 out of 193 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 13 out of 193 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 193 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 193 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 193 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

nan y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful as usual!

We have stayed here so many times over many years and it never fails to be such a lovely time. Thank you!
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Barbara B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Brinnon after National Geog cruise

The Balch Retreat is a lovely site, commendable for scenic views, animal observations, tidal comprehension, and relaxing. The home was sparkly-clean with three floors to accommodate whatever group partition you might envision. The kitchen implements provided were obviously those from someone who likes to cook, but stock up before you get there as recommended. The host, Suzanne, was very responsive. We are all in our 70's. Know that access between floors is not for the faint of heart or directionally challenged. Also, the highway signage upon arrival is very discrete and easy to miss. The home is built on the side of steep beach access -- which becomes part of both its charm and its challenge. It has two sweet patio areas for observation and lots of clean windows everywhere. Thank you for sharing.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely water setup

The house and experience were as described. It's a historic house and has a creaky floor here and there, but the character and charm more than make up for that. Some of the stairwells are narrow (again, it's a historic house!) but our children (ages 6 and 8) had no trouble navigating it. We loved doing a half-day trip up to Port Townsend too; and Hama Hama Oyster Saloon is an amazing experience very nearby. We would certainly consider staying again.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carol D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome!! Beautiful and abundant wildlife and birds!!

Peaceful, relaxing and beautiful. The home has been lovingly restored and perfectly decorated! I think the kitchen has more supplies, dishes, glasses, cookware, etc than my own home!! Yes it is a 104 year old home and has some creaks but that is part of the charm!! And the historic original pieces like windows, door knobs and handles etc are charming! Suzanne is incredibly responsive!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Malu W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing views and terrific wildlife watching

Our family of 5 had a terrific stay here. Lots of room, well stocked kitchen. House had everything we could possibly need. Lots of spices and dishes. We enjoyed the two kayaks, fun to explore up the Dosewallips River with the seals and birds. Soaking tub on third floor has spectacular view! We went to Hama Hama oyster saloon twice over the long weekend - highly recommend. We explored locally and also went to Hurricane Ridge in the Olympic National Paek. Our favorite thing to do was to sit on the main floor deck and watch the wildlife: seals and so many different birds. Driveway is steep but just have to go slowly. We would definitely return! Thank you for sharing this lovely home.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jamie W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

3 Night Unwind

We had a lovely stay, it’s a beautiful, cozy place. Perfect spot to relax, kayak & hike.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rachel P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful views!

The house has so much charm and is decorated beautifully. We enjoyed our time on the upper deck listening to the seals and watching the sunrise. I would definitely recommend rising early at least one morning and watching the sun come up. Our only regret was that we didn’t have more time at the house and hiking the nearby trails. There was a wildfire on the mountain behind the house (My Jupiter), so access to the National Forest and trails was closed. We spent most of our days on the other side of the peninsula or in Port Townsend to escape the smoke and be able to access some trails. We hope to return someday when we can have more time at the house because it truly is a lovely retreat location. It’s very relaxing and the beds are incredibly comfortable! We stayed in the upstairs bedroom and I don’t think I have ever had a better night’s sleep! (That’s a big deal to me on vacation.). Also, even though the house is very close to highway 101, you’d never know it. You don’t actually see the road since the house is below it, and we never heard the traffic when inside the house. If I could hear road noise on the deck, it must not have been noticeable because I don’t remember hearing it outside, either. The driveway is very steep with a very sharp curve, so I wouldn’t recommend a long wheel-based vehicle. Oh, and the blackberries were in season while we were there which was a huge bonus!!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sharon M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

excellent

We had a magical time in this beautiful home. Time on the balconies watching seals, eagles, otters, whales and elk. It was spectacular. enjoyed visiting the olympic national park and hiking hurricane ridge. can’t wait to return. Owner was very helpful and responsive. i would highly recommend this home
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Vance C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Bald Eagles & River Otters!

We had a fantastic stay. The house worked perfect for two couples (three couples and a few kids would work great in this house). It was really comfortable and had glorious views of the canal. If you stay here be sure to get up to watch the sun rise and wildlife awaken - just spectacular. The kitchen is well stocked with everything needed to cook our meals and easily clean up. Which is important because there aren't many places to eat or get food close. Thank you for the lovely bottle of wine and exceptional property.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

It's like 2 different water stays

We had a great time during our stay. The tide changed so much between high and low tides, that it was like 2 totally different water views. The kitchen and house as a whole was very well stocked. The stairs in the house are rather narrow, and the wood floors creak, but both things are to be expected with a historical home. We enjoyed our stay and would recommend to others.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very comfortable with beautiful views

Our adult daughter labeled this the "Practical Magic" house. It's old but nicely furnished and very comfortable. The views from the decks are just as advertised--incredible, with lots of wildlife. Only suggestion would be some blackout shades for the upper bedrooms. The house faces due east and the sun rises about 5:30 this time of year. No alarm needed.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anne Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gorgeous Hood Canal

Our stay at the Balch house was so wonderful! 2 nights was just a short visit but we hope to be back some time. Dropped off our kids at gril scout camps nearby and enjoyed the gorgeous area ourselves too. We did some hikes and used the kayaks a couple of times. The house has everything you could possibly need. I felt at home. It was a very warm week and it was warm in the house too despite best efforts with AC and fans but we didn’t expect that too be much different. Driveway is steep and narrow, something to keep in mind. I’ve already recommended this house to friends! Host was very responsive with questions.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jim G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A groovy place to stay

The house is unique in all the right ways. Fun staircases, awesome views from everywhere, the kitchen had everything we needed to cook for all eight of us and the beds were very comfortable. The way the tide comes in all the way to the stairs made for easy access to the floating and then it went way out for fun beach combing as well. The binoculars were a nice touch so we could zero in on all the seals and the eagles, too!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joyce K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing Brinnon House!

Amazing place! Loved the views and kayaking!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

8/10 Good

Judy B.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing home on the water

Amazing water front heritage home. Plenty of room, well equiped with everything you want. Great place to relax and enjoy nature. Driveway down to house is hard to see and very narrow. Best to add to address, especially if arriving after dark, that driveway is a sharp left before private gate.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amy E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Better than the pictures!

The pictures of the home and the views were incredible, but they do not do it justice. Absolutely beautiful!!! The house has everything. The location is stunning. The host was extremely responsive and lovely. We could not have been happier! We will be back!!!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Scott G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved our stay

Beautiful, comfy beds, kitchen has good appliances and is stocked well with essentials. Wonderful views from every room. We had 4 adults and 2 young children and were very comfortable. Lots of stairs to climb, be prepared for skinny, steep stairways.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

nan y., Puyallup, WA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Back again!

We absolutely love staying here on the hood canal. Beautifully appointed, spectacular views and near to many, many trails. We’ve stayed here many times since 2018 and it never disappoints. Thank you Suzanne for having us!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Greg B., Port Ludlow, WA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Thanksgiving getaway

Beautiful historic home in a beautiful place. Immaculately clean, well stocked with everything you’d wish for. Amazing views from everywhere inside and around the house. Suzanne was very responsive and provided lots of helpful tips and info for enjoying the house and surroundings. We had a great time and would book this house again in a heartbeat!
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lisa H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great spot just to "be."

I hadn't realized when we booked the house that it had a view of the mouth of the Dosewallips River. We all sat on the covered porch, awestruck, watching 50+ seals and a score of bald eagles dining on what must have been spawned-out salmon. A comfortable house, with charming quirks of age. The stairs to the basement room are steep and narrow, and make you feel like you're going down to a secret hideaway. There are lots of cool hikes nearby, but it's hard to beat just sitting on the covered porch, reading a book and listening to the wildlife and waves.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Deirdre M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Iconic Pacific Northwest Experience

We loved everything about this very special house and location. The house itself it oozing with charm, perfectly appointed and spotlessly clean with views to die for from every room. All the appliances, bathrooms and heaters worked as expected. The abundant wildlife, including eagles, sea lions, otters is right there for viewing - you don't even have to leave the property. But if you do, you are in for a treat. We kayaked and paddle boarded every day without getting into the car. And the Geoduck bar down the street was a super fun place to watch our college football game. Hama Hama oyster saloon just a few minutes away. So fun! We will definitely be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

jen t.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magical

This was so amazing in every way. I absolutely did not want to leave. They stocked everything we needed. I can’t think of a single thing I would change or recommend. The VIEWS!!! Like, seriously! From every freaking room in the house!!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Janet L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Puget Sound Life

Wildlife viewing in comfort! We saw a couple dozen mature and young eagles standing on the tide flats catching fish. Herons, a coyote, flocks of seabirds, and of course, herds of seals. Peace and quiet, blinding sunrises, old growth trails near by. A house with character, and all amenities. Be prepared for stairs in and out. Just what we wanted.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best Family Vaca Ever

Wonderful time had by me, my adult kids and grands. Location was perfect for clamming, oyster hunting, kayaking, eagle watching. We had such an amazing holiday! The house was nicely stocked with dishes, pots and pans, spices. Everything we need and more. Loved having Kayaks on site to use whenever we wanted. Great crabbing. Great hiking in the area as well. To have an entire family have such an amazing weekend was remarkable!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Philippe Hyojung K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely and stunningly beautiful location!

Highly recommended! One of the best low tide access to the canal I’ve ever seen!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

About the host

Hosted by Suzanne Wuhl

Host profile image
We fell in love with the Nantucket style, old world charm, amazing wildlife, incredible views and the quaint city of Brinnon. We look forward to many years of our guests enjoying this special place as much as we do!

Why they chose this property

This is the MOST historical home and property on the Hood Canal and closest to the water in all of Brinnon Estates. This unique home lies above an estuary of amazing wildlife. It is truly a photographer's playground. Sit back and enjoy the eagles that soar by, the Roosevelt Elk and the sea lions frolicking. The views are incredible. The house itself is truly a step back in time. It has been lovingly preserved. There are so many original items kept throughout the years, the hardwood floors and the original kitchen sink, just to name a few. One step onto this property and you will be truly transformed from the daily hustle & bustle of life. Come stay at The Historic Balch Retreat and you will experience relaxation at its finest.

What makes this property unique

The views of the expansive waters, the sounds of the birds, the water hitting the shore, the sea lions in all their playfulness, is so very calming to the soul. Experience true spiritual peace and comfort as you immerse yourself in nature.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests