Whale Watch House: Oceanfront/Near Mendo Village/a Private Retreat

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Entire home

If the whales are out there, this chair on the deck is perfect to whale watch.

You are welcomed by our Whale Watch Bear.

The spacious deck looks out to the ocean---great for whale watching.

Large craftsman home showcasing native redwood paneling.

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

3 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

Pet-friendly

Hot tub

Fireplace

Kitchen

Barbecue grill

Air conditioning

Check-in time

3:00 PM

Check-out time

11:00 AM

Explore the area

Mendocino, CA

Russian Gulch State Park1 min drive
Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park4 min drive
Point Cabrillo Lighthouse8 min drive

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 King Bed

3 bathrooms

Lower Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Master Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Mid-level Bathroom

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Balcony

Garden

Dining Area

About this property

This Pacific Ocean retreat is ideal for those seeking peace, quiet, and spectacular sunsets. The Whale Watch House is located in one of Mendocino’s best-kept and most-exclusive coastal neighborhoods just one mile north of the historic Mendocino Village .

This craftsman beauty features an open floor plan. Through the many large picture windows you will enjoy unparalleled views of the blue Pacific Ocean while your privacy is ensured by the surrounding grove of mature cypress trees. There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, and biking just outside the front door. The main entrance to Russian Gulch State Park and the Point Cabrillo Lighthouse are both within walking distance.

Enjoy a morning cup of coffee or an afternoon glass of wine on the large deck and watch the seals, migrating whales, as well as an abundance of wildlife including black tail deer, wild turkeys, raccoons, foxes, brown pelicans and other sea birds.

Book your reservation now so you too can revitalize and relax to the soothing sound of waves crashing on the rocks below. You will experience why first time visitors become repeat guests.

Keywords: House

Property manager

Harvey and Jackie Moranda 530-519-9383 (J) 530-514-2095 (H)

Languages

English

Amenities

Hot tub

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Pet-friendly

Air conditioning

12-24-15 Guest just sent me this. This view is what you get folks! Unbelievable

Ocean view

Hot tub

Kitchen

Pet-friendly

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

On ocean bluff. Must be supervised.

Events

No events allowed

Pets

Pets allowed

Small dogs only.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

In addition to $50 pet fee-- there is additional $500 pet deposit, refundable

Covid 19 may require a booking to be cancelled. We must adhere to the Counties requirements. If so, guests will receive a full refund.

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

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

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Mendocino

Located in Mendocino, this holiday home is on the waterfront. Kelley House Museum and Ford House Visitor Center and Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Noyo Harbor and Skunk Train. Sea Glass Museum and Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

View more Holiday homes in Mendocino

Mendocino, CA

What's nearby

Russian Gulch State Park - 1 min drive
Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park - 4 min drive
Agate Beach - 4 min drive
Temple of Kwan Tai - 6 min drive
Point Cabrillo Lighthouse - 8 min drive

Getting around

Santa Rosa, CA (STS-Sonoma County) - 133 min drive

Restaurants

‪David's Deli - ‬12 min drive
‪Goodlife - ‬5 min drive
‪Pizza Factory - ‬12 min drive
‪Patterson's Pub - ‬5 min drive
‪Rhody's Garden Café - ‬10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Whale Watch House: Oceanfront/Near Mendo Village/a Private Retreat pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Whale Watch House: Oceanfront/Near Mendo Village/a Private Retreat?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Whale Watch House: Oceanfront/Near Mendo Village/a Private Retreat?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Whale Watch House: Oceanfront/Near Mendo Village/a Private Retreat located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is 1.2 mi (1.9 km) from Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park and within 3 miles (5 km) of Russian Gulch State Park and Agate Beach. Point Cabrillo Lighthouse and Caspar Headlands State Natural Reserve are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Robert C.

23 June 2024

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

Never Disappoints

Great property in a great location. The ocean view cannot be beat. This is a very comfortable and accommodating home. Unfortunately, the cool and windy conditions this year kept us inside most of the time. However, the view is nearly as good as being outside on the deck.

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robert H.

17 May 2024

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

Great ocean view!

Great location to all of the surrounding beaches and great ocean views from the house.

Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christina L.

22 Mar 2024

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

Local Whale Watch Getaway

Our family was looking for a house not to far from home to whale watch and visit our favorite spots in both Mendocino and Ft. Bragg. The house was perfect for all of these things. It was comfortable durung a really windy storm. We got to see whales while drinking our morning coffee. Kitchen had everything. Great array of puzzles. It was a beautiful house and time away for all of us.

Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tahnee T.

17 Feb 2024

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

Amazing Views

We love this house and always have a relaxing weekend. This is our third stay and plan to come back every other year. Only thing we did notice was the front bathroom tub had a lot of hair on the walls so maybe just mention to the cleaners. We also had a small mice that we caught in the downstairs bedroom. Didn’t see any droppings anywhere so maybe it came in with the door open. Overall great host and great experience

Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elaine M.

15 Feb 2024

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

Beautiful, relaxing whale watching adventure

My husband and I enjoyed a wonderful, relaxing weekend with beautiful views. This house has everything you need and is very comfortable. We saw whales and sea lions right from the back porch, and enjoyed the hot tub while watching the waves. We will return!

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stacey G.

10 Jan 2024

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

Family New Year

We had a wonderful stay. The view cannot be beat. We look forward to our next visit.

Stayed 9 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Claudia M.

31 Dec 2023

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

Christmas In Fort Bragg

This was the absolute perfect house for our Family Christmas Celebration 2023. The home is in wonderful condition and the rooms are beautiful. The kitchen and window room accommodated cooking time with family time. The view is 5 star and the hot tub was a special treat. This was a Christmas for the books! Thank you to our Hosts, they made check in a breeze and were patient and kind. We will stay again.

Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mitchell G.

30 Dec 2023

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

Can't get any closer without getting wet

You cannot get any closer to the Pacific Ocean without getting wet than the Whale Watch house. It sits on a bluff over the Pacific. There is a panoramic picture window where the waves are the feature presentation running and re-running 24/7. If being indoors gets to you, you can just step outside onto the deck and take a hot tub. We had horrible, rainy and stormy weather, but didn't mind it at all. This place is a gem. It is well maintained and fully equipped. The owners have the drill down and the entrance/exit is easy. Located just a a couple of minutes from the entrance to Russian Gulch State Park.

Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Barry P.

12 Dec 2023

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

Sea lions galore

Great views

Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

MARY S.

2 Dec 2023

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

Ocean views

Relaxed on deck to gorgeous ocean views. Very private.

Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl B.

14 Nov 2023

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

Beautiful Location!

Could not have asked for a better view on the north coast! Loved the view from the deck and living room. The proximity to both Mendocino village and Fort Bragg, as well as beaches and hiking trails was wonderful. Our only complaint was the living room furniture wasn't as shown on the website. My husband and i are tall, so the depicted larged curved sofa looked perfect. When we arrived, we discovered that sofa was gone replaced by two love seats - not comfortable to stretch out on. I suggest updating the online photos to show what's there now.

Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2023

8/10 Good

Patricia R., Florence, USA

4 Oct 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy

Vacation

My daughter (Maine), her best friend (CA Bay Area) and I (Oregon) met in Mendocino for a 4 night vacation. The location is beautiful; the home is lovely; and we had a great time.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kim R.

19 Sept 2023

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spectacular vantage point

We appreciated the opportunity to stay in your beautiful home which affords a peaceful and comfortable getaway. Very well stocked with everything one might need. The view is not to be missed! KR

Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robert C., Auburn

13 Sept 2023

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

Great Stay!

I don’t think that we have ever spent more time simply staring at the ocean waves and enjoying the perfect weather and extraordinary views. We saw whales and seals nearly every day. The home was perfect for our family of four adults and two children. It was super easy to communicate with the owners; and they are great hosts!

Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

laura p., El Dorado Hills

30 Aug 2023

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

Amazing Stay!

This is a beautiful home on the ocean. Photos do not do it justice. We enjoyed watching the sea lions in their habitat not to mention telescopes and binoculars provided. The home is fully equipped…extra blankets, pillows and the kitchen has everything to cook a meal at home. Our daughter received a surprise proposal so this home is now a very special place for our family to return to for years to come. Thank you!

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Fran P.

17 Aug 2023

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

Wonderful home and location

No review to share

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Danielle B.

11 Aug 2023

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

Whale watch review

Loved the location of the house and as promised we did get to see whales! There were also sea lions on the rocks below every morning. The house was clean and comfortable.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carol W., Fair oaks, ca

6 Aug 2023

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

Perfect girls trip

Our time at Whale Watch was fabulous again. We enjoy the home in any weather as it is always beautiful. We saw several whales this year Looking forward to coming back next year!

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl W., New Orleans, LA

5 Aug 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gorgeous location!

Views and atmosphere is amazing! Beds were super comfortable & everything was well appointed.

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Karen F.

4 Aug 2023

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

Girl's Annual Get Together!

There are 3 of us gal pals, who get together once a year on the coast. We loved our place this year! Whale Watch was the best place we have stayed so far. The house was cozy and well stocked. The beds were very comfortable. We all slept so well! The location was perfect for short trips into Ft. Bragg and Mendocino. And the view! The view was awesome! We all just loved hanging out on the deck and watching the ocean and the sky. The owners were wonderful to work with. We look forward to our stay here (fingers crossed) next year!

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

8/10 Good

William N.

15 July 2023

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

Beautiful property

Weather was incredible! Whale watch is a great name, as we saw a few throughout the stay from a distance. Very quiet and relaxing location.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mary S.

8 June 2023

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

Unbelievable views

The Whale Watch does not disappoint. The home on the bluffs and windows galore made whale watching so relaxing. Saw many water spouts. Comfortable home and fully equipped. The hot tub was an added bonus.

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

barbara c., valparaiso florida

7 June 2023

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

What a great time.

Grandmother, children, and grandkids found this a wonderful experience. Home was comfortable, nice, clean, conveniently located, and "whalecoming"...we loved it! Will certainly rent again when visiting the area. No whales seen this visit but lots of sealions. Rate it a 5 out of 5. Thanks so much for making this a great trip.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Salina D.

25 May 2023

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

Gem of the Mendocino Coast

Words cannot adequately express the wonders of Whale Watch. The views of the ocean from this cliff top home were spectacular! The sounds of the waves crashing on the rocks below were amazing. The home was very clean and comfortable. Thank you Jackie for an easy checkin process. We look forward to returning!

Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Douglas F.

23 May 2023

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

Whale watch

Great time lots to do nearby

Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

About the host

Hosted by Harvey and Jackie Moranda 530-519-9383 (J) 530-514-2095 (H)

We are mostly retired now. Harvey is a rancher -- and these ranchers never completely retire. Jackie is a retired school teacher. We are finally getting to the place where we have more time to enjoy the coast and all it has to offer. Our children and grandchildren (Idaho and Arizona folks) love to get their 'ocean fix' over here at Whale Watch House. A special treat for them is to ride the Skunk Train and to hunt for treasures on the many beaches. But, for us, just being here is very special.

Why they chose this property

We are used to country living; that is, lots of privacy. When we first saw Whale Watch House nestled in among the many mature trees, we knew we had found our quiet, coastal retreat with all the privacy we enjoy. Every time we walk up those steps to the deck, come around the corner to the front door, and see that ocean out in front of us . . . . well, we know all over again that we made the right decision to make Whale Watch House our coastal home-away-from-home.

What makes this property unique

We are looking out for the safety of all our guests, so this home has been equipped with hand rails in all bathrooms and along the two sets of stairs inside. Automatic night lights on the inside stairs. Lower bedroom has a door for easy access from the small yard, so easy to bring suitcases in. Suitcase stands in all bedrooms.