Entire home

RARE FIND Historic Waterfront on Hood Canal, Olympic National Park

Family fun on the beach

Photo gallery for RARE FIND Historic Waterfront on Hood Canal, Olympic National Park

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

View map
  • Place, Dosewallips State Park
  • Place, Hood Canal
  • Place, Pleasant Harbor State Park
  • Airport, Seattle, WA (BFI-Boeing Field)

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........

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Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
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 - 12 min walk - 1.0 km
  • Pleasant Harbor State Park - 2 min drive - 2.4 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Seabeck Pizza Parlor - ‬74 min drive
  • ‪The Geoduck - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪DoseGrind - ‬19 min walk
  • ‪Halfway House Restaurant - ‬20 min walk
  • ‪Cocktail Time On The Hood - ‬5 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.

How much is parking at RARE FIND Historic Waterfront on Hood Canal, Olympic National Park?

On-site parking is available at the 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.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 193 out of 206 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 13 out of 206 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 206 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 206 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 206 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Cedric G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was very well equipped for cooking. The best part of the stay was watching the eagles and seals from the deck. The morning aquatic wildlife show was wonderful.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amber L.

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

Amazing Property!

I don't typically pick older properties like this but the view and experience was too good to pass up. We LOVED it! Very remote property so come prepared with groceries. The house was extremely clean. Very well stocked - they've thought of everything! We loved the peace and quiet/lack of other people around. Watching the harbor seals and the bald eagles was a highlight of our week. The master bed was extremely comfortable. Highly Recommend
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

nan y., Puyallup, WA

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

Wonderful repeat visit

The Balch Retreat is our go to for a Hood Canal vacation. House is lovely, it’s right on the water, comfortable beds, great location.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Heather A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house felt like happy people lived there for a century. It is very well loved and cared for, with a stunning view and gardens. It was cozy and elegant, and we loved learning about the house's family. We loved being on the water, and feet from Doswallips State Park where we took walks, and enjoyed the river, and lookout points, and hikes. The town is small and friendly. We enjoyed everything about our stay. We just wish we could have stayed longer. It was a breathtaking beautiful place. I actually got to wade around in proximity to a bunch of seals who seemed annoyed but not too bothered by my presence. They also provided binoculars at the house. We spent hours watching wildlife. I did not look at my phone, a computer, or a t.v. once. I didn't miss it. In fact, I feel like I've been reminded that the life around me can be far more enriching than what is on a screen.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

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

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

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

Meg W.

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

Incredible stay

I was not sure what to expect but this home was incredible. So incredibly comfortable and homey. We watched bald eagles fly past the patio all day long; Seals poking their heads out of the water in the canal. Kayaks were great and we had an amazing time out on the water. This is one of the few places that I can say I would love to return to.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brad M.

Awesome

Great place great location! Suzanne is awesome to work with! Really cool old house with modern conveniences! A lot of character! Will be back next year!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2018

10/10 Excellent

Christina H., Gilbert, AZ

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

Eagles and Seals

Absolutely recommend this historic home! We arrived to find it exactly as described on the listing. Comfortable beds, clean and pleasant atmosphere and stunning views of the water. The eagles soared daily and the seals entertained us with their curious ways. Our Girls Weekend included kayaking, a visit to Hama Hama Oyster Saloon and a drive to Port Townsend.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

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

8/10 Good

Maya W.

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

Great place with well stocked kitchen

Overall this place was great. The kitchen is well stocked, has a fun little TV room, two of the bedrooms are good, and of course the views are amazing. The downsides are you have to get your own wood (the woodshed is locked and code isn't provided), the main way of heating the house is a woodfire stove, and the third bedroom is pretty musty and the bed is not comfortable (one of the guests ended up sleeping in the TV room),
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2020

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

Joan S.

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

great place for families

Our family--2 teenaged grandkids, our daughter, our son, and my husband and I had a fantastic week. The place was just as described. The view was phenomenal and we loved seeing the changes as the tide came in and out. We saw seals and bald eagles through the binoculars provided. Favorite trips were to Rocky Falls where the grandkids swam in the pool at the bottom and stood in the waterfall and to Sequim to the Olympic Game Farm where they fed bread to the yaks, bears, and elk through the car windows. The beds were comfortable, the kitchen was very well equipped, and there were multiple places to hang out. We had a wonderful family vacation and would recommend it highly to other families.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne C.

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

Amazing area

We loved the place and especially the wildlife. Disappointed the jetted tub was not working. You should have told us so we wouldn’t not have expected it. It also looked like a crime scene- not very nice.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

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

Lori M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to stay! The views were beautiful. The house was so charming with lots of quality decor. A good mix of antique and modern. The main floor and upstairs bedrooms were perfect-- comfortable and clean. The down stairs bedroom was a little more rustic (because of the age of the home) but still clean and comfortable. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

James P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We spent a lot of time on the porch out back watching the seals, ducks, herons, and eagles. It was amazing. We also enjoyed several sun rises and the tidal changes of the Canal. The kayaks were fun too. The kitchen was well equipped and the beds super comfortable. It couldn’t have been better.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laura B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This home is exceptional. The view is like no other, watching seals and eagles and not to mention I probably ate my weight in blackberries. The house is a wonderful mix of new and old and has everything u would ever need. It allowed us to heal from a brought some peace back in our lives. Thank u for a wonderful stay
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jessica J.

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

Loved it!!

Stayed here with our 5&8 year old as well as Grandma visiting from the east coast. We absolutely loved it. House was clean and so so cute. Stairs to rocky beach is A LOT be prepared to walk, but once you are down to beach it is lovely! Bring tough water shoes for shell and rocky beach. Kyaks and all the life jackets you need for any size are ready to go. Bald eagles, Elk, and harbor seals were a daily occurence. It was magical! Visit Hama Hama and Hook & Fork. 2 of our favorite places.We would book again.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

H W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Check-in was super easy and straightforward. Had the code to the lockbox before arriving. Kitchen had everything we needed. Clean fridge, clean dishes, etc.. rustic charm yet everything was clean and tidy.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Carol M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing and gorgeous stay. Perfect!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ed G.

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

Lovely stay

We had another wonderful stay at this lovely home. The setting is peaceful and scenic, making it the perfect place to unwind. AS returning guests, we especially appreciated the thoughtful touches and attention to detail throughout the house. The kayaks were a big hit again -- such a great way to enjoy Hood Canal!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Teresa R.

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

A beautiful calm retreat!

We loved our short stay. We saw eagles, elk, seals and ducks while sitting on the balcony porch. We took the kayaks out and the water was so calm. Several good stops and hiking in the area.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Matt A.

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

Family weekend

Outstanding location and spacious home, a real treat.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

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