Entire home

Exquisite, Private Oceanfront Getaway

Beachfront holiday home with kitchen and patio

Photo gallery for Exquisite, Private Oceanfront Getaway

Beach
Baleen offers 2 floors of luxury and unparalleled views.
The galaxy awaits you at night.
The entryway.  Welcome home!
The kitchen, view from the entryway.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 6223.0 sq m

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

View map
Albion, CA
  • Place, Navarro River Redwoods State Park
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Point Cabrillo Lighthouse
    ‪26 min drive‬
  • Place, Glass Beach
    ‪36 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

3 bathrooms

Downstairs Master Bath

Toilet · Shower only

Kitchen/Guest Bath

Toilet · Shower only

Upstairs Master Bath

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Exquisite, Private Oceanfront Getaway

Very private, luxury property with spectacular ocean views, perfect for a family outing or surprise intimate getaway.

This custom, gated blufftop home overlooks Albion's picturesque Navarro Beach, where the Navarro River meets the Pacific Ocean. Listen to the soothing sounds of the waves and marvel in the panoramic views from anywhere along wrap-around deck, including from the radiating warmth of the amazing, heated Galanter & Jones loveseat. Watch the sun melt into the Pacific while relaxing with a glass of award-winning, locally-crafted wine or cider. Grab a few fluffy towels, rinse off in the outdoor shower, and stargaze on a cool, clear night in the secluded, roomy hot tub, located on its own deck. Its 58 hydrotherapy jets will ease you into your getaway.

An established, popular vacation home on the Mendocino coast, Baleen - named for the blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus) that can be seen from the deck during migration - was exquisitely furnished by a professional decorator and completely renovated from the ground up. It is a meticulous melding of comfort and serenity, and includes:

- two private, gorgeous bedroom suites (plus two queen-sized, customized sofabeds--one in each lounge)
- 3 full bathrooms (complete with heated floors)
- full gourmet kitchen
- Speed Queen washer/dryer
-A Lopi cast-iron gas stove with 3-sided bay windows (and remote) to curl up and watch the dancing flames from all angles on cold nights - no smoke and no scout badge required to start it!
-A backup generator with automatic transfer switch to seamlessly provide power to entire house in the event of a power outage or shut-off
- all the expected (and even unexpected) amenities of a luxury vacation home, including multiple flat-screen TVs, Bluetooth-enabled stereo, commercial cooktop/indoor grill, double wall stoves, granite countertops of rose quartz and labradorite, local artwork, designer furniture, bamboo flooring throughout the first floor, and a telescope for whale watching.

The activities you can enjoy are endless. Take a leisurely sunrise or sunset walk or brisk jog along the open, secluded stretch of sand below the house: access is just a minute's drive down the hill to free, beachfront parking. (There is no direct beach access from the house.) Travel a few miles south to Elk and experience the exquisite cuisine of chef Matt Kammerer at his 2 Michelin-starred restaurant in The Harbor House Inn. You can also head north for several miles to dine at one of several fine renowned restaurants like Ledford House. Then go for a stroll in downtown Mendocino, soak in the landscape, or take a drive up the coast. Try the award-winning Anderson Valley wines just east of Baleen. Experience Mendocino at a slow, inspired pace.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Children must be supervised when outside.
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Events

No events allowed
Events require separate discussion/pricing.
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
NO SMOKING policy is strictly enforced.

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
If you move furniture, please carefully return to original position before departure, and If you break anything, please let me know.
If you want 1 weekend night during a 2-night opening, please understand I'll give priority to 2-night requests. Consider asking for 2 nights!
Golden Rule Policy: please treat Baleen as you'd want me to treat your home. :) Thank you!

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: Events require separate discussion/pricing.
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

Albion

Located in Albion, this holiday home is on the beach. Albion River Bridge and Kelley House Museum are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Navarro River Redwoods State Park and Greenwood State Beach. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Albion, CA

What's nearby

  • Navarro River Redwoods State Park - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Agate Beach - 19 min drive - 22.4 km
  • Point Cabrillo Lighthouse - 26 min drive - 28.0 km
  • Skunk Train - 31 min drive - 40.9 km
  • Glass Beach - 36 min drive - 41.9 km

Getting around

  • Santa Rosa, CA (STS-Sonoma County) - 115 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Little River Inn - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Terra Mar Kitchen - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Inn at Schoolhouse Creek - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Harbor House Inn - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Ledford House - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Exquisite, Private Oceanfront Getaway pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Exquisite, Private Oceanfront Getaway?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Exquisite, Private Oceanfront Getaway?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Exquisite, Private Oceanfront Getaway?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Exquisite, Private Oceanfront Getaway located?

Situated on the beach, this holiday home is 1 mi (1.7 km) from Navarro River Redwoods State Park and within 6 miles (10 km) of Albion River Bridge and Greenwood State Beach. Mendocino Coast Massage and Greenwood Community Center are also within 6 miles (10 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. 220 out of 223 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 223 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 223 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 223 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 223 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Cindy D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is our favorite place to stay when we visit the Mendocino Coast! Clean, comfortable beds and linens, and a well stocked kitchen with all amenities provided. Best of all are the amazing views and beautiful sunsets!!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laura C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great private house with everything needed. Love the deck with beach / ocean view.
Stayed 12 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fabulous property with incredible views!! This is our 5th or 6th time staying at this house in Elk. Margie is an amazing host. We hope to return many more times in the future.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Chris I.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a fantastic stay at Baleen! The house was spotlessly clean, kitchen fully stocked, and everything functioned correctly/intuitively. The linens and bedding were fresh, the bathroom was immaculate, and even the smallest details (heated bathroom flooring) were well cared for.The space itself was incredibly comfortable and cozy. The living area was inviting, with various seating and incredible ocean views that created a calming atmosphere that made it easy to relax after long days of exploring the coast!Margie was very easy to communicate with, I highly recommend booking this place, I would absolutely stay here again!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Carol R.

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

Senior family outing

Beautiful property right on the ocean. Loved the Infinity bedroom and going to sleep with the sounds of the ocean. Would go back!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Anjali K.

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

Wonderful place to stay!

We had a wonderful stay! The host was easy and a pleasure to work with—responsive and thoughtful. The house was very clean, well stocked, and included lovely little surprises like a heated outdoor chair and a clean, fully functional hot tub. But the real showstopper is the view—absolutely breathtaking and worth the trip all on its own. Highly recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jeff C.

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

Simply Paradise

Our stay was truly a once in a lifetime experience. The accommodations were top notch and the beauty of the home were breathtaking. We couldn’t recommend this spectacular home more. This home lives up to the reviews and exceeded all expectations.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Mary E., El Dorado Hills, Ca.

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

Wonderful location and view

Great place to relax and enjoy the ocean views.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Brita B.

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

Amazing in every way!

We stayed at Baleen as part of a 50th birthday celebration. East coasters on a West Coast adventure and Baleen was such a huge part of the successfulness of our trip! This house has it all- views for miles, squeaky clean (walking with no socks kind of clean), fully stocked kitchen, all the niceties you didn't know you needed, and amazing communication with our host! There was so much to do and see in Mendocino County, but the best part was coming "home" to Baleen, sitting on the deck, enjoying a sunset over the wild Pacific and counting our daily blessings. Positives: clean, amazing views, comfy beds and pillows, fully functioning kitchen, lots of personal touches Negatives: We woke up on day five and realized we had to leave.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth C.

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

Just perfect

The house is cozy and incredibly comfortable, the views are amazing. Everything was perfect, thank you!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laura C.

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

Annual Getaway

Already booked for next year!
Stayed 13 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tracy C.

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

Wonderful getaway

Our family passed the Thanksgiving holiday here. We really enjoyed the views especially from the heated hair and the hot tub! We were lucky that it was a new moon so we could see the whole amazing night sky and milky way. All the bedrooms and bathrooms were very comfortable. And the kitched was very well stocked with all the equipment and utensils we needed.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeff M.

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

Baleen is the best!

The attention to detail and condition of the entire property that Margie maintains are by far the best we have experienced at any VRBO property
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robin R.

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

Amazing property

The property was even better than the pictures. Amazing views - just stunning! Kitchen was fantastic. It is perfect for a weekend getaway. Can't wait to return!!!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Shayne M.

Great as always

House and location are amazing. Great as always!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Sandra H., Cazadero, California

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

Anniversary trip

My husband and I totally enjoyed our stay at Baleen. The setting is beautiful and we loved waking up to coastal views and going to sleep to the sound of waves. It was wonderful! Thank you.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Melinda D.

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

Discovering Elk

Mesmerized by the ocean view. Lucky to see sun, sunsets & full moon all out on the horizon of the ocean. Enjoyed exploring the area -
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Patti Q.

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

Don't think twice!

Book your stay! This is the most peaceful, beautiful place I have ever stayed, hands down! Bring food, wine, books and turn off your electronic devices and breathe...you will not be disappointed! On top of everything, you will sleep so well, you won't want to leave. Love Baleen and Margie! Thank you!!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Emily L.

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

Amazing as always!

We had such an incredible stay this Christmas at Baleen. As always, Margie was amazing and goes above and beyond.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nancy S.

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

Baleen did not disappoint!

We had such a fabulous time! The views were spectacular, the house was beautiful and so much attention to detail made us feel so pampered. Margie is an incredible host and we will be back!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cynthia P., Friendswood, Texas

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

Summer 2023

Great experience from booking to check out. The house was lovely, the views, breathtaking and the amenities, plentiful! Great host! Great location! We would love to return soon! Thanks, Margie!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jeff M.

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

Thank you Margie

This was our 7th time staying at Baleen. It truely is a magical home with a fantastic location. Margie has always been so gracious. We are looking forward to visit number 8.
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Xiaoqing G., Moraga

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

wish we could stay longer

Amazing ocean front house with fantastic view! Margie is very friendly and take care of this house really well. It has everything you need for a homey stay. Especially, there is a line of different kinds of coffee makers, from french press to espresso machine :)
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Terri W.

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

Perfect Retreat

This was our second stay at this property and I would just move in if she would let me! The sounds and smell of the ocean, the beautiful redwoods, whale watching from the deck, secluded and very private beach, we just really couldn’t ask for more. When we look to “unplug” and escape this home is our very first choice! Love your beautiful home Margie!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jeff S.

Look no further

Baleen is simply wonderful. Beautiful house, outfitted beyond all expectations, well located for everything, and the hot tub is the awesome! We totally enjoyed our stay at Baleen. Margie was an excellent host providing lots of useful information about everything from restaurants to moon cycles. We will definitely be back.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2019

About the host

Hosted by Margie Gear

Host profile image
A California girl who loves the North Coast, and enjoys sharing the luxury and beauty of her homes with visitors to this wonderful part of the the Golden State.

I've worked and traveled across most of Europe and some of Asia, and I've lived in Hawaii. My family is from Canada (we used to joke that I am the only US-born family member and can become president someday.) I keep coming back to California and its unrivaled beauty and liveability.

I am an active animal rescuer and I was on the Advisory Board of Palomacy Pigeon and Dove Rescue. I spent 14 years fostering and volunteering with Mickaboo Companion Bird Rescue. I have met wonderful, caring people through my work with them, not to mention some great birds!

I also volunteer my time - 30 years this year - to ALRP, which provides free legal representation to those living with or affected by AIDS or HIV here in the Bay Area. I am blessed and I like to pay it forward.

My mottos are 'Carpe Diem, Vita Brevis' and 'This, too, shall pass.' They have served me very well.

I am a hands-on host. I want to make sure your questions are answered and you have a great time while visiting Baleen. I encourage you to reach out to me before, during, or after your vacation with questions, comments, or suggestions.

I hope you try out my beautiful Mendocino home and are prepared to be spoiled and indulged.

Why they chose this property

Mendocino is a spiritual, lovely, relaxing and rejuvenating area. I knew this was a unique estate when I first saw it. It has been completely renovated with the finest finishes. Please enjoy!

What makes this property unique

From the heated limestone floors in the bathrooms to the rose quartz and Labradorite countertops and custom-made vanities, everything is top-notch and luxurious at Baleen. The front entryway boasts a locally-made black walnut bench from the Elk Art Collective. There are antique Chinese armoires and one-of-a kind artwork throughout. Come visit and be pampered.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

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