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50+ acre Nature Preserve with Ponds & Meadows: Azul Cottage Retreat

Riverside cottage with kitchen and fireplace

Photo gallery for 50+ acre Nature Preserve with Ponds & Meadows: Azul Cottage Retreat

Handsome kitchen with coffee maker, microwave, tea kettle, toaster, pots & pans
Azul cottage's bright living area with numerous windows
Azul cottage: 2 bedroom, 1 bath, full well stocked kitchen and propane fireplace
Platform Queen bed in Master Bedroom
Cherry wood queen bed with ample light in Second bedroom

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 490.6 sq m

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

View map
Mendocino, CA
  • Place, Russian Gulch State Park
  • Place, Agate Beach
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Point Cabrillo Lighthouse
    ‪5 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Hair dryer

Spaces

Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

50+ acre Nature Preserve with Ponds & Meadows: Azul Cottage Retreat

Whether you are looking to relax, explore, or unplug, Mendocino Tranquility Meadows has it all. Nestled just outside the charming coastal town of Mendocino, this cozy 2-bedroom cottage offers the perfect escape for your next vacation. Picnic in the meadow along multiple ponds and hike breathtaking trails on more than 50 acres of land. Mendocino Tranquility Meadows is perfect for your relaxing vacation, private event, wedding, family gathering, or get together with friends boasting ample outdoor space and natural beauty. Gather around the outdoor Adirondack chairs for an unforgettable evening, cook meals with loved ones, stargaze in the meadow at the expansive night sky, and immerse yourself in nature. Comfortably accommodates 4 guests in Azul Cottage.

Mendocino Tranquility Meadows is a historic birder's dream. Originally owned by legendary conservationist Jacques Helfer a renowned author of "99 Birds of the Mendocino Coast" and "The Natural History of Mendocino." A 2 acre pond is at the heart of the property and is home to many bird species including ducks, osprey, warblers, swallows, hawks, and owls. And yet less than 2 miles north of the famous town of Mendocino. Numerous beaches, Surfing, kayaking, bird watching, hiking, mountain biking, shopping, wine tasting….. and world class restaurants all minutes away!

Venture out and explore the nearby attractions such as popular Point Cabrillo Lighthouse & Museum, Caspar State Beach, and stunning Russian Gulch State Park with ocean bluff trails & beach, all only a 3 minute drive away.

Azul, a Southwest themed cozy cottage, features 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, full custom kitchen including granite countertops, and handsome gas fireplace stove for a romantic evening. Beautiful wood furniture throughout. Full bathroom with shower/tub. All windows look onto trees and nature. 1 queen bed in each bedroom for a total of 2 queen beds in Azul suitable for 4 total guests. Dwellings are farm chic, quaint and light filled with county rustic feel. Please note, we do not offer a TV. Get ready to relax and unplug! Whether you're seeking a cozy retreat or a family-friendly getaway, this property has everything you need for an unforgettable vacation in Mendocino.

Double bonded DSL Wifi provided in Azul Cottage.

Set off of Highway one, you can hear some highway noise outside the cottages but you cannot see the road or other houses. We have one security camera on the garage facing the driveway (facing away from the house) for everyone's safety. This place is close to amenities including grocery stores, pharmacies, shops, and medical clinics in both Mendocino (2 miles away) and Fort Bragg (7 miles away) yet it is like staying in a private park.

*For Larger Groups, Events & Weddings ~ Please let us know your desired dates for availability, more information and pricing. Additional Meadowlark House (3 bedroom) and Seaglass Cottage (2 bedroom) available on the property. Search the listing ID below on VRBO's site for pictures & to book additional accommodations.*

***Meadowlark VRBO listing ID 1269197

***Seaglass VRBO listing ID 3115085

***Azul & Seaglass (both cottages rented together) VRBO listing ID 3223553

Before booking, please review all house rules to make sure it is the right place for you including:

~ Check-in is 4pm -10pm (unless prior arrangements are requested and granted) / Check out is by 11am

~ This is a Non-smoking property - This includes inside and outside the cottage. Violating this policy will result in charges for the full cost of damage.

~Please be aware wildlife is common on the nature preserve including but not limited to deer, raccoons, coyotes, foxes and the like.

~GPS may not be accurate, please review the detailed directions and property information provided before your stay.

Welcome to Mendocino Tranquility Meadows! Enjoy your stay with us!

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 20
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Children must be supervised at all times
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Contact for a quote for weddings or events!
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Wash any kitchen dishes
Turn off fireplace stove (if you turned it on)
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
NO Smoking on entire Property. Check-in is 4pm - 10pm (unless prior arrangements are requested and granted ahead of time) / check-out is by 11am.
Guest cannot exceed number of guests stated on booking. Doing so could cancel the stay and result in additional charges.
All reservation details will be verified within 72 hours of booking. And if guest doesn't make 2nd reservation payment, host may cancel the booking.

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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 4
Note from host: Contact for a quote for weddings or events!
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

This property does not have any lifts
A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Mendocino

Located in Mendocino, this cottage is in the city centre and on a river. Point Cabrillo Lighthouse and Kelley House Museum are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Glass Beach and Russian Gulch State Park. 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.
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Map
Mendocino, CA

What's nearby

  • Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park - 1 min drive - 0.7 km
  • Caspar Headlands State Beach - 2 min drive - 3.2 km
  • Agate Beach - 2 min drive - 3.5 km
  • Mendocino Art Center - 3 min drive - 4.9 km
  • Point Cabrillo Lighthouse - 5 min drive - 2.8 km

Getting around

  • Santa Rosa, CA (STS-Sonoma County) - 132 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Sea Pal Cove - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Noyo Fish Company - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Goodlife Cafe & Bakery - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Rhody's Garden Café - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is 50+ acre Nature Preserve with Ponds & Meadows: Azul Cottage Retreat pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at 50+ acre Nature Preserve with Ponds & Meadows: Azul Cottage Retreat?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at 50+ acre Nature Preserve with Ponds & Meadows: Azul Cottage Retreat?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is 50+ acre Nature Preserve with Ponds & Meadows: Azul Cottage Retreat located?

Located in the heart of Mendocino, this cottage is within 2 miles (3 km) of Russian Gulch State Park, Caspar Headlands State Beach and Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park. Caspar Headlands State Natural Reserve and Agate Beach are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

9.4/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 69 out of 92 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 21 out of 92 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 92 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 92 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 92 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

PGolf2

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
WOW what an amazing place! We stayed in the Azul cottage and it was perfect for our trip. The meadows on site were pretty and the hiking trails were fun to explore. Our cottage was filled with books and games to use while visiting. Ideally located near both Fort Bragg, Mendocino and many beaches! Our host Peter was fantastic and answered our questions very quickly. Would definitely recommend to anyone staying in the area!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

chardonnay k.

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

Beautiful, cozy property

We enjoyed the hiking trails, games/puzzles, and proximity to the ocean most! Everything was clean and comfy.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andry D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The home was comfy, clean, and quiet. It was absolutely beautiful and perfect for my fiancé and I. The location was amazing making travel to Mendocino and Fort Bragg convenient! Everything was nicely accommodated and check in/out were extremely easy and simple as well! Peter and the property owner were amazing too, super communicative and thorough with their instructions and provided things to see and do while visiting. They were also incredible when I had left my ring on the counter top making sure it got back to me safely! I absolutely would stay here again!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nicole M.

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

Relaxing Retreat

The property and location are perfect! The house was clean and very comfortable. We loved the property, all the walking paths, ponds and meadows. Our two children were so happy playing outside and spotting animal friends. We will absolutely be back again soon.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Janelle A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great stay in Azul. The property was beautiful. The hike to the ponds was enjoyable. Loved being able to have our own spot to rest, park, and recharge without the difficulty of a motel. We've never used a VRBO. Felt like home, without an alarm clock. Only thing that we didn't have was a cloth or sponge to scrub the dirty dishes. We went to the laundry and found a rag though. Thank you for great memories
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Jim N.

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

Linda's birthday weekend

Private, quiet and as advertised. 50 acres and pretty much by are selves. Driving distance to both Mendocino and Fort Bragg minimal.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Pam M.

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

Decompress and rejuvenate

I came to get away from the stress of work and family. The setting was restful. The meadow and ponds were beautiful. The location was central to all the places we wanted to explore. Truly a wonderful experience all the way around!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Malcolm T.

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

Nice setting, comfortable home

This house isnt fancy but was comfortable, well equipped and worked great for two couples. Beds were comfy and the kitchen had everything we needed. We also loved the private hiking paths, ponds and meadow. We would stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly C.

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

Wonderful

We enjoyed this property for 3 nights. It’s very close to the Fort Bragg/Noyo area and Mendocino. We also did a day trip to the Redwoods. We would love to come back again!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Linda M.

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

Rest and tranquility

We had a very pleasant stay at Tranquility Meadows in Azul Cottage. Comfortable furnishings, very clean and well maintained, conveniently located, close to town yet hidden away. We enjoyed exploring the trails on the property and others nearby. Communication with the host was excellent and he made it clear that if we needed anything we should let him know, but we didn't need a thing -- the cottage is well equipped. Would definitely stay here again if we are fortunate enough to return to the area someday!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Susan W.

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

Mendocino Relaxation

We loved our stay. It was the perfect nature getaway we had been looking for. The place was clean, comfortable, and quiet. There was an abundance of detailed information provided that was very helpful. We do have 2 suggestions for the owners. Lamps in areas where you would want to read would be helpful in the evenings. Also, better fitting screens for the windows to keep out the mosquitoes. Otherwise, the place was perfect and our stay very enjoyable. Thank you.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Courtney W.

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

Tranquil

What a lovely spot, especially for those with young kids. The location is so relaxing, because you can let your little ones roam without worrying about them going out into a street. It is very close to Mendocino, Caspar, and Fort Bragg, but set back from the highway so noise wasn't an issue. The fireplace kept things cozy during the cool mornings. We loved the simple furnishings too. Everything was comfortable and functional but not so fancy or plentiful you felt like you needed to caution kids not to use things or spend half your time moving things out of reach. Croquet and bocce were wonderful touches- the front yard makes for some fun obstacles. I would recommend slightly thicker if not full blackout curtains in the bedrooms.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lee S.

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

Relaxing getaway

We stayed at the Azul cottage and had a wonderful time. This is really a time to unplug and get away from the bustle and stress of work, traffic, technology, etc... The house is rustic, and set on a very large plot of land that extends back into a beautiful meadow and lily pond and beyond. We hiked a good half mile through trails deep into the woods where we saw wildlife and a number of small ponds and bogs. Plenty of beautiful redwood trees as you get into the forest. The house itself is simple and basic, but has enough to make the stay very enjoyable. It had two good sized bedrooms and one bathroom. Water pressure is good in the shower, there is a gas range for cooking, and a gas burning fireplace. There was not a TV which was actually nice, we drank good wine and listened to music at night and talked. It gets cool at night but there are space heaters if needed and the fireplace works very well. Convenient location to get around. The place is rustic and tucked away but felt safe and secure. We had to deal with a few bugs in the house but nothing unusual given the location and natural surroundings. Peter was great and very responsive. Would stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Mike S.

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

Paradise in Mendocino

We left 3 weeks ago and we miss it so much.1 week wasn’t enough to explore the property and surrounding area. The home is so cozy and welcoming, while the property is vast and exciting. Thank you so much for allowing us to stay and extend our stay. We hope we treated the home with respect. The home was very clean, which is important for me to be comfortable. One of the beds was a bit loud with each move we made and a pinch too stiff for my liking, but the other perfect. The couches were so comfortable and perfect to snuggle up and read one of the many books that are on the bookshelf, or rest from your hike. We did have Wi-fi, while resting we took our small laptop and were able to stream from Hulu and we took our sound bar to listen to music from Spotify. We didn’t cook too much, since we fell in love with the GoodLife Cafe and delicious food options around. Though, we did bring our own spices and oils to have options. It was so much fun getting to know the different paths. Especially seeing the wildlife, many banana slugs, deer, birds- like hawks, stellar’s blue jays, bats, and chipmunks. I wish I saw owls, but they probably saw me. I’m just learning how to be a birder. You can always go down to Fort Bragg and visit the botanical garden on Wednesdays at 8am to join them on a bird walk. The stars out there are one of the reasons we love Mendocino. The clear view of the Milky Way is mystical and in this location with the bats flying overhead was special.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023

8/10 Good

Molly R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cabin is located very close to Medacino and all the parks and activities nearby. It is also a certified wildlife sanctuary- with beautiful walking paths that are super private right on the property! Lovely
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

candace p.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cabin was just right! The kitchen has everything I needed. The bed was comfortable. It was the perfect place to relax.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Priscilla H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved our stay at Azul Cottage! It's on a huge forested piece of land with amazing trails right at your doorstep! The cottage was perfect for 2 people, cozy and easy to get to state parks and the town of Mendocino with a short 5 -7 minute drive. We are very outdoor-minded people and hiked every day in the nearby parks or right on the land. The cottage grounds are very simple, but the windows look out on beautiful trees and the forest. Highway one is very close by, but it didn't bother us. There is a nice little gas stove and we were very warm.
Picnic table for outdoor meals.
Kitchen table for eating and art work.
Hiking out your door step!
Cozy and comfortable interior.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Angela B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice cozy clean place. Easy to find. The host answered all questions. I would stay here again. Thank you
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dennis and Louise R.

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

Awesome Getaway

We were after a quiet getaway and that’s what we got. The cabin is secluded and well stocked. The trails through the property are spectacular. We will definitely be back.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alisa C.

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

Fort Bragg Quick Getaway

The property was very easy to access from the main highway. I was concerned that the cars on the highway would be distracting, but they weren't at all. The property matches the description and the property was beautiful. Take the time to walk the trails and go to the ponds.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Jay W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A little hard to find but very private and quiet. The pond and property was very peaceful.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Kris M.

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

Great location a

The location was perfect! Quiet and very peaceful! The communication with the host and his very excellent detailed directions and instructions were super helpful. The kitchen was clean and functional and we enjoyed the games. The propane stove worked very well and quickly heated the cabin. The property was very pretty and secluded. The bed closet to the living room was painfully uncomfortable… but we moved into the other bedroom and that be was better. There were plenty of towels, washcloths and toilet paper. Loved all the windows throughout the unit. The cabin could use a bit of a deep clean (cobwebs and mildew smell). The area at the base of the toilet is kind of gross… rusty and hair on bottom of toilet and sides of tub. Used soap was in the bathtub. I can see the host really tries to make it a wonderful and welcoming experience, and maybe some of these small issues would not matter to many people… I really like things super clean. I loved the area and Mendocino made the trip an awesome time. Great visit!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Camille C.

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

Mendocino Cabin

Beautiful property and great location
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julie C.

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

Glass Beach Adventure

The property was beautiful with hiking trails right out our drive way. The trails were well marked and worth the hike. Ponds, flowers, meadows, and Redwoods all around. Pete met us there to make sure we got in ok. The home was clean, well furnished and comfortable. It was so nice to come back too after a long day of hiking and walking the beaches. Thank you
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Martin C.

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

Very Peaceful and Comfortable Experience

Overall, recommend staying here. We enjoyed our stay (3 nights, 4 days). The positives are that the property is very peaceful as the property name suggests. The nature trails on the property are worth the time to explore. Even though it is close to the highway, we did not even notice. We played games and frisbee with the kids courtesy of the owner. There are some improvements needed: new pots & pans, new knife set, and a new kitchen faucet. Since we enjoy cooking, this would make a huge difference.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

About the host

Hosted by Peter Scott

Host profile image
With two young kids, my wife and I found an amazing property that was a private nature sanctuary that had lost it's owner. It had been a bird watching spot named "Tranquility". The property has it all. We fell in love with the ponds, open meadow land, beautiful trees, trails and not to mention wild huckleberries. Each time a friend visits they are blown away by the treasures this property has to offer.

After giving up the office life, and much hard work rebuilding the dwellings we started our family run business to open up the natural beauty to families like you. We hope you will create memories you will never forget, like watching ducks on the pond, playing Frisbee on the grass, and sipping a cup coffee with birds signing in the background. We can't wait for you to see it for yourself!

Languages:

English

Premier Host

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