Romantic lodging in Mendocino Historic District with ocean and garden views
Location: Mendocino, North Coast, California, USA (In Mendocino Village Historic District 3+ hrs north of SF) View Map
Accommodations: Cottage, 2 Bedrooms + Convertible bed(s), 1 Bath (Sleeps 4-5)
Keywords: Self-contained water tower guest house
LOCATED IN THE HISTORIC DISTRICT OF MENDOCINO, unlike many "Mendocino" listings that are miles from town. The Tower offers well-appointed accommodations for one to four with pretty garden and ocean views. Stretch your travel budget by preparing some of your meals in the cheerful kitchen or walk to one of the fine local restaurants for a special brunch or dinner. The fenced garden creates a peaceful environment and accommodates supervised pets and children. Smoke-Free environment. Check our website (below) for additional photos.
At this writing, mushrooms are popping up in the woods and on the menus of local restaurants. Whale sightings are a daily event and the bluffs are covered with wildflowers that are beginning to set buds. At the Botanical garden, the first rhododendrons and camelias are blooming.
***AVAILABILITY UPDATE: We still have good availability for spring and summer, but this is the time to lock in prime summer vacation dates.
Use link to our main website (below) for additional photos and links to local information and schedules of events ranging from the winter Whale Festivals to a two-week summer Music Festival, Art Center classes, Repertory Theater performances, and numerous food and wine events.
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Washer : available on request for stays of a week or more
- Dryer : available on request for stays of a week or more
- Linens Provided : Ample towels, down comforters and quilts
- Off Street Parking : Locked Bikes and Kayaks are welcome in fenced yard
- Parking for RV/Boat/Trailer : Ample room for legal street parking
- Beds
- Queen Bed (2) : queen bed in bedroom on second level; queen hide-a-bed in sofa on first floor;
- Twin/Single Bed : built-in twin captain's bed and futons on third level
- Convertible Bed : New queen-size hide-a-bed in living room
- Child Bed : twin futon may be moved as needed
- Entertainment
- Shared Hot Tub : Private and shared hot tubs and massage available with reservations at Sweetwater Eco Spa a few blocks away. 707 937-4140
- Cable/Satellite TV : 32" flat screen TV in living room and small portable with VCR in bedroom. Basic cable.
- DVD
- VCR
- Video Library : Limited adult selections, more for children. Nearby video store
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen : Small, well-equipped kitchen and dining area with stove, full size frig, microwave, etc.
- Cooking Utensils Provided : Guests regularly cook full meals and comment on the simple but well-equipped kitchen
- Refrigerator : full-size frig and freezer
- Microwave
- Ice Maker
- Catering Available : Catered food is available through Harvest at Mendosa's Market 2-blocks away
- Outdoor Features
- Charcoal BBQ Grill
- Deck/Patio : Porch surrounded by colorful, fenced garden.
- Balcony : Rooftop widow's walk with extensive views of ocean and Mendocino Historic District
- View/Location
- Ocean View : Garden and white water ocean views. Short walk to protected beach and bluff-top trails of Mendocino Headlands State Park
- Water View : Ocean and Mendocino Bay are visible from upper levels.
- Mountain View
- Monument View : Surrounded by the Mendocino National Historic District Views of off shore sea stacks that are part of our newest National Monument
- Communications
- Telephone
- WiFi (Wireless Internet) : Most guests can access wireless network in Tower. If not, it can be accessed by arrangement with owner or at local Internet Cafe
- Other Amenities
- The Tower is located in the Mendocino National Historic District, a short walk from restaurants, beaches, shopping, spas, galleries, and local wine, film, mushroom, whale, and film festivals. Little River Airport and golf course are less than 5 miles.
- Suitability
- Pet Friendly : We welcome supervised pets. $35 per pet fee.
- Kid Friendly : We welcome supervised children who are safe on stairs and ship-style ladders. The garden is fully fenced.
- Smoking Not Allowed : Smoking permitted outside on porch only.
- Activities
- Golf
- Shopping
- Kayaking
- Boating
- Surfing
- Biking
- Mountain Biking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Fishing
- Health/Beauty Spa
- Antiquing
- Live Theatre
- Miniature golf
- Horseback Riding
- Hiking
- Restaurants
- Fitness Center/Gym
- Cinemas/Movie Theaters
- Museums
- Other Activities
- Walk or bike to the Trails & Beaches of Mendocino Headlands & Big River State Parks, Historic Sites, Shops, Galleries, Art Classes & Museums, Nearby Sights include California Redwoods, Skunk Train Rides, Birding & Annual Grey Whale Migration, Point Cabrillo Light House, Historic Taoist Temple of Kwan Tai, Nationally Recognized Botannical Garden, Hike, Bike, Swim, Surf, Snorkel & Dive, Abalone, Canoe & Kayak, Trail & Beach Horseback Riding, Deep Sea Fishing & Whale Watching Excursions
Rate Details (In US Dollars)
$185/wk nt $195 wkend sgl/dbl $10/nt per xtra gst. $35 per pet.
Payment by check preferred. PayPal OK if for full amount. 50% deposit/balance due
30 days prior to arrival. Rates include basic cleaning, linens & supplies.
Tax is 11%. Please see linked website for payment and occupancy policies.
Weeknight rate applies to stays of 4 or more nights.
Call for possible last minute cancellations.
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
Map & Owner's Profile
Romantic Mendocino Village Water Tower-Ocean & Garden Views
Year Purchased: 1989
Why the Owner Chose Mendocino
Living near the ocean has always been a priority for us and the Village of Mendocino won our hearts because of the spectacular bluff top setting and the rural community with its strong focus on the arts and on preservation of the town and its natural environment. It's a privilege to live here and welcome others to this very special place.
The Unique Benefits at this Cottage
Staying in the heart of Mendocino Village allows our guests to enjoy its scenic beauty and share the slower pace and peaceful spirit of our rural community. Comfortable shoes are welcome wherever one goes...from one of the excellent restaurants, to a whale watching cruise, a hike up Big River, a Music Festival concert, Film Festival screening, Writer's Conference seminar...or just prop them up on our tree stump "footrest" and lounge on the Tower porch with a good book.
A great country market and deli 3-block walk from the Tower. Operating since 1909!
Whether you need a sweatshirt or a fine art gallery, a wedding ring or homemade fudge, you'll find it on Mendocino's historic main street.
Walk the Headlands Trail and follow the signs down the stairs to Portuguese Beach. Enjoy the protected cove and driftwood. Do keep your dog on leash to avoid a state park fine.
Big River Road drops down to a beautiful beach and continues east, up the river for several miles. Good for walks, runs, bike rides. Cross the river and turn left and left again to rent a Kayak for
A state historic park with the historic lighthouse, interpretive center, gift shop and walking trails.
10 Miles North is the town of Fort Bragg with the popular Skunk Railroad and fish restaurants and Whale Watching Trips in Noyo Harbor. The beautiful Mendocino Coast Botanical Garden is located on Highway One south of FB
The pet friendly Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens (about 8 miles N. of Mendocino) runs from Highway One to the ocean bluffs. Enjoy a stroll through the perennial garden and world class rhododendron and heather gardens...down to the shore, and back to the demonstration vegetable garden at the historic Parrish homestead.
Owner's Map of Mendocino
Innkeepers Don and Wendy Roberts purchased the historic Bever House in 1989 and re-built the adjacent water tower two years later as a unique guest house in the heart of Mendocino's National Historic District. Recently retired from Stanford University's Communiction Department, Don continues his writing and consults on children's television program. Wendy applies her non-profit management skills to various local endeavors and serves on the town's historic review board.
Property Photos
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- Romantic lodging in Mendocino Historic District with ocean and garden views - Mendocino, CA - California Lodging Rental near the Beach - Water Tower for Romantic Moments & Oceanviews!
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- Cozy living room with queen sofa bed and garden views - Mendocino, CA - California Lodging Rental near the Beach - Water Tower for Romantic Moments & Oceanviews!
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- Ocean and Mendocino Village views - Mendocino, CA - California Lodging Rental near the Beach - Water Tower for Romantic Moments & Oceanviews!
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- Romantic master bedroom with queen bed
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- Well-equpped kitchen and dining areas with garden views
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- Dining area seats 4-5
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- Share morning with the flowers and hummingbirds from covered porch
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- Colorful pet and child friendly fenced garden
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- Walk to Mendocino Headlands State Park trails and Portuguese Beach
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- Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
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- On the waterfall trail at Russian Gulch State Park
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- Chinese News Years at the Historic Temple of Kwan Tai in February 2010
Traveler Reviews (26)
Mendo. Water Tower
Guest: joe
(Elk Grove)
Date of Stay: 10/14/11
Review Submitted: 11/10/11
Unique,clean and within walking distance to all of the sights. We would love to visit again.
Recommended for:Girls getaway, families with teenagers, adventure seekers, romantic getaway, age 55+, tourists without a car, sightseeing, families with young children.
Great Place to Stay
Guest: Michael
(Battle Ground, WA)
Date of Stay: 10/07/11
Review Submitted: 10/14/11
We just did 3 nights in the Tower, celebrating an anniversary and a birthday. We loved the viewing deck on top; the bed was perfectly fine; we enjoyed having the kitchen and living room... but best of all, I think, is the complete sense of privacy in that much space. I would not think twice about staying there again-- it's a winner! SW Washington
Owner response:Thanks so much for your review. We're glad you had such gorgeous weather to enjoy the garden and views from the viewing deck.
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, sightseeing.
An incredible retreat
Guest: Mizword
(Santa Fe, NM)
Date of Stay: 05/27/11
Review Submitted: 08/17/11
I have stayed often at The Water Tower over the last seven years: it is my go-to place in the Mendocino area! As a writer, it affords me quiet and comfort. I love being able to walk to town and sea. The gardens around the tower are unbelievably gorgeous. I can't recommend it highly enough!
Owner response:Thank you for your kind words. We always enjoy your visits and the contributions you and other guests make to our local writer's community through their teaching and public readings. I wish I could include your name and the title of your recent collection of poetry, but if others would like this information they can e-mail me and I'll be happy to provide it.
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, age 55+, tourists without a car, sightseeing, families with young children.
What a wonderfull place
Guest: Judith and Rene
(the Netherlands)
Date of Stay: 07/06/11
Review Submitted: 07/29/11
For the second time we spend a week in the lovely tower of Wendy and Robert. It is such a nice place to stay. Comfortable, with a nice kitchen, fine beds, great bathroom, lovely garden and all in the beautiful environment of Mendocino. Thank you again, Wendy and Robert, for beining our hosts. Judith Budde and Rene Meijer, the Netherlands
Owner response:We appreciate your business and your kind words and look forward to greeting you again in the future.
Recommended for:Girls getaway, romantic getaway, age 55+, sightseeing, families with young children.
Thoughtful Owners! Amazing comfort - Rooftop View is Spectacular
Guest: Bob
(Willits, CA)
Date of Stay: 03/30/11
Review Submitted: 04/25/11
We felt right at home the minute we walked into the ground floor of the Water Tower. The view from the roof is amazing! It gave us a real understanding of the Village. Ocean views to the south, west and north - great for photographers. Our 2-day stay during some of the best weather in months meant that we could stroll to great nearby restaurants as well as make a quick run up to the Botanical Gardens - a must see for us whenever we are on the coast. I loved listening to the sound of the surf at night. Best of all... when I realized that I had forgotten to pack the clothes I left in the downstairs closet and called to make sure they were in fact still there, the owner offered to personally deliver them to me on her next trip inland. Talk about service!! Needless to say, we are already planning our next visit.
Owner response:We also look forward to your return visit in the fall. That's typically when the dahlias are in full bloom at the botanical gardens.
Recommended for:Girls getaway, families with teenagers, adventure seekers, romantic getaway, age 55+, tourists without a car, pet owners, sightseeing, families with young children.
Lovely retreat in downtown Mendocino
Guest: LuLu
(Sonoma County)
Date of Stay: 03/11/11
Review Submitted: 03/19/11
Staying at the Tower was a relaxing and pleasant retreat experience. The owners are pleasant and not at all intrusive though they live next door. The rental was very clean and the experience was a feeling of a home away from home. The home is private and the location is excellent for walks into town or to the beach. The unique nature of staying in a tower and the ability to have a 360 view at the top of the tower was fun and great if you are a photographer. There is a lovely garden ouside the French doors which lends itself to a visually pleasant experience along with the deck to sit on and enjoy the weather (rain or shine). The cost is reasonable for the location and feeling of privacy. The rental was as it appeared on the Internet. Two restaurants I would recommend but are of a very different fare. The Mendocino Hotel is a historical hotel with French influence to it's menu. The sea scallops were excellent and a good wine selection. Raven's Restaurant located at the Stanford Inn only a four minute drive away was exceptional. It is truly gourmet vegan and some of the best food I have eaten. If you are a meat eater you will not find any there but what you will find is some of the most creative and healthy food you will get in a restaurant and you will be full. No eating a pile of steamed vegetables there. The downtown shopkeepers are friendly and easy-going. Also, if you are a dog lover and want to travel with your furry companion, Mendocino and staying in the tower is for you. Our two small dogs loved the trip and were fully able to be with us on almost all our outings. If you have a well-behaved dog they can even join you at the Raven's, all you need to do is sit in the lobby area which is just outside the main restaurant. The seating area is lovely and you do not feel like you are sitting away from things. Overall, if you are looking for a relaxing or romantic or just overall pleasant and pleasing trip, a stay at the Tower may just be what you are looking for.
Owner response:Thank you for your thoughtful review. We always appreciate hearing feedback on local restaurants and activities that our guests have enjoyed.
Recommended for:Girls getaway, adventure seekers, romantic getaway, age 55+, tourists without a car, pet owners, sightseeing, families with young children.
Private Mendocino Water Tower- Amazing views- Clean and Pet Friendly
Guest: Jana
(Auburn CA)
Date of Stay: 01/13/11
Review Submitted: 03/11/11
As someone who has visited Mendocino regularly for over 35 years, this tower is my all time favorite place to stay. Completely dog-friendly with a comfortable covered front porch facing a lovely, private garden area that is fenced in. Cozy living room with television, books, and a desk for writing. Full kitchen with a romantic corner table for meals. Second level in this open floor plan is light with views from every window. Comfortable bed and a second television. Up a ladder from there is a small loft that is a fun place for a child or two (over about 5-years-old- the ladder is steep) to stay. A huge treat is that from the top floor (which is already 3 stories tall) there is a locked door (the key is provided) that leads to another ladder, this one on the outside of the tower, that leads to the top. From here you can see forever. Wonderful views of the ocean and the town. Comfortable deck (bring lawn chairs). This rental is located in the heart of Mendocino Village and you can easily walk everywhere you need to go. You'll love it!
Owner response:Thank you for taking the time to comment, as one of the many guests we've enjoyed welcoming back for repeat visits over the years.
Recommended for:Girls getaway, families with teenagers, adventure seekers, romantic getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, sightseeing.
Great lodging and hosts
Guest: Eileen, Terry and Maggie the Vizsla
(Grass Valley CA )
Date of Stay: 02/11/11
Review Submitted: 02/24/11
We stayed in the tower with our Vizsla for three nights over the Valentine's weekend and had a great time. Our hosts were working in the garden when we arrived, but then left it to us and our dog for the rest of our stay. We found everything that we wanted in the tower and then some. With a quick visit to a nearby market, we had what we needed to take advantage of the complete kitchen. The first floor with a kitchen, bathroom and living room was larger than we expected in a converted water tower and was very comfortable with plenty of light and space for us. The second-floor main bedroom was lovely with a nice comfortable bed and lots of windows for views. We didn't use the third-floor, but were thinking that our granddaughter would love climbing up the ladder to sleep in the built-in bed. Climbing all the way up to the great views from the top of the tower was fun. We found the tower to be as described by the owners and to be very attractive and clean. The personal effects scattered around make it very warm and friendly. We had nice warm weather until our last night when a rain and wind storm moved in, so we enjoyed the village and the headlands both ways. We were out on the headlands before dawn in the rain and wind on our departure morning soaking up the incredible coastline one last time. We recommend the tower most highly for a cozy get-a-way.
Owner response:Thanks for your kind words and the chance to meet your Hungarian Vizsla. We hadn't encountered the breed before and she's beautiful. It's a good thing you brought your rain parkas as well as shirt sleeves for the unseasonably warm weather. Walking on the Headlands in the rain is a special experience for those with warm gear and hardy spirits. See you next time...and thanks for the suggestion of trading for a stay in your home in Grass Valley. We look forward to taking you up on that.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway, age 55+, pet owners, sightseeing.
An excellent little bed and breakfast in Mendocino village
Guest: knox
(San Francisco, CA)
Date of Stay: 02/04/11
Review Submitted: 02/22/11
This is the most absolutely fabulous little bed and breakfast, set squarely in the heart of Mendocino. Mere blocks from Main Street and the Headlands, this picturesque little place offers a stunning 360 degree view of the whole village from the top of the tower. Complete with kitchen, dining room, living room with a flat screen TV, porch, swing and an enclosed garden this place is absolutely to die for!! Such a great place. Plus the owners are so nice. Can't wait to go back.
Owner response:Thanks for your enthusiastic review Chris, but the Tower isn't really a bed and breakfast. It is "self-catering," as they say in Europe. We just found ourselves with an abundance of hot cinnamon buns:):) We're glad you enjoyed them.
Recommended for:Girls getaway, families with teenagers, romantic getaway, age 55+, tourists without a car, sightseeing, families with young children.
Still the Best
Guest: Don, Jill and Lillian
(Stanford, CA)
Date of Stay: 11/24/10
Review Submitted: 02/22/11
A great place, even with 3 of us. We could be together or we each had our own space. We enjoyed beautiful sunsets. Sitting at the bar at Little River Inn is always the best. We've been coming to Mendocino for over 25 years--camping, B&Bs--vacation homes. This is one of the best! Thank you!
Owner response:Thanks for the tip about the missing garlic press. It's been replaced. Glad you enjoyed the fresh herbs from the garden. We enjoyed meeting all of you and look forward to your return visit in the spring. Happy holidays.
Recommended for:Girls getaway, families with teenagers, adventure seekers, romantic getaway, age 55+, tourists without a car, pet owners, sightseeing, families with young children.
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Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #14958
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