Entire home

Exquisite, Private Oceanfront Getaway

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 62400 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Hot Tub
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Dryer

Explore the area

Map
Albion, CA
  • Navarro River Redwoods State Park
    ‪1 min drive‬
  • Albion River Bridge
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Russian Gulch State Park
    ‪28 min drive‬
  • Ukiah, CA (UKI-Ukiah Regional)
    ‪72 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.

Property manager

Margie Gear
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Hot Tub
Kitchen
Washer
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.
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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Events require separate discussion/pricing.
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock

We should mention

A car is required for transportation to and from this property

About the neighborhood

Albion

Located in Albion, this vacation 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. Be sure to check out the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Albion, CA

What's nearby

  • Navarro River Redwoods State Park - 1 min drive - 0.1 km
  • Albion River Bridge - 7 min drive - 7.3 km
  • Agate Beach - 18 min drive - 19.6 km
  • Point Cabrillo Lighthouse - 26 min drive - 26.4 km
  • Russian Gulch State Park - 28 min drive - 25.1 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Little River Inn - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Elk Store - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Ledford House - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Ole's Whale Watch Bar - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Harbor House Inn - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Exquisite, Private Oceanfront Getaway pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this 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?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Exquisite, Private Oceanfront Getaway located?

Situated on the beach, this vacation home is 1 mi (1.7 km) from Navarro River Redwoods State Park and within 6 mi (10 km) of Albion River Bridge and Greenwood State Beach. Mendocino Coast Massage and Greenwood Community Center are also within 6 mi (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 210 out of 213 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 213 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 213 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 213 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 213 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

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

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

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

T W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
STUNNING!
This place is absolutely amazing! Beautifully decorated, super comfortable beds, thoughtful extras (heated chair, telescope, books on local history and wildlife, board games...), hot tub, stocked kitchen.....and the view! WOW! The balcony hangs high above Navarro beach with unbelievable ocean views! I had a question upon arrival and Margie's response was immediate! Loved the tips and recommendations she sent beforehand, as well. Our only regret was only staying for one night! I hope to return for longer stay one day!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amitai J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
PARADISE!
PARADISE! This was our third visit and Baleen just gets more incredible each time! This place and its host deserve every superlative. Words fail to describe the effect of sitting on the heated loveseat (!) out on the deck looking out at the sunset over jaw dropping views with a glass of wine. But I'll try nonetheless: It's the most beautiful, calming, spotlessly clean, luxurious, pampering and exquisite place and Margie is the most thoughtful, responsive and detail oriented host we've ever encountered. It's obvious she spends a lot of time (and money) making sure Baleen is so well designed, furnished and maintained. It's at once the perfect vacation getaway and also the perfect home you'll never want to leave. My wife and I have traveled extensively and stayed in many places across the globe over the years and Baleen remains our #1 all time incomparable favorite. We'll keep coming back as long as Margie will let us. The house itself is GORGEOUS, with beautiful artwork and furniture, super comfortable beds, a romantic fireplace and every pampering and modern amenity and detail you could imagine - from the fully equipped kitchen through the heated floors and lush towels in the bathrooms (we ordered those for our home we liked them so much), to the hot tub with the best views in America and down to things like fast WiFi, smart TVs and super helpful explanations and recommend
Stayed 1 night in May 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

Bill S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome stay
Everything was perfect from the start. The manicured driveway and front yard leading to the back deck with the best view. The house was tastefully decorated and every need was thought of. Very clean and comfortable. The hot tub was heavenly and the heated stone seat was an unexpected treat.Margie the owner was super and felt like an old friend. We were celebrating our 42nd anniversary and couldn’t have picked a better place. We will be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

David R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Baleen fit the bill
Baleen was perfect. The house was nicer than the pictures implied. The view was ridiculously fantastic, 180 degrees of Pacific coastline and waters. House was extremely well equipped and prepared. Margie (host) was very responsive. Only comment would be that the notes for local attractions, restaurants, etc. should be updated. As an example, much is made of Queenies as a breakfast option in the notes. It appears as if Queenies closed down 2 years ago! Baleen is a place we may very well return to.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

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
Our second stay!
Better than our first! I didn’t think it could get any better but it did! Since we knew the lay of the land, we stopped for supplies and wine along the way from Santa Rosa. It’s true, once you arrive, you don’t want to leave. Everything you could want or need is here for you to enjoy. Close the gate and leave the world behind. We’ve already planned our stay for next year. Yes, it’s that good! Thank you once again Margie, it’s a slice of heaven ❤️
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

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

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

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

Kathy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Favorite VRBO Ever!!
Five long-time friends stayed at Baleen, and for all of us it was love at first sight! We were seeking refuge from the Texas heat, and Albion provided that, but our stay at Baleen was icing on the cake. It is not only beautiful but so very comfortable too, and the view from the deck is breathtaking! Margie has thought of everything to make it the perfect place to stay, and she was so very easy to work with. I've used VRBO all over the US, and this has been my favorite! It's perfect for a couples or friends getaway. I highly recommend!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 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

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

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

CYNTHIA D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful Getaway!!
Baleen was the perfect spot for us to recharge after a very long, cold, snowy winter. The house was very clean, comfortable and inviting! The views were absolutely spectacular! We loved the time we spent out on the deck, enjoying the hot tub, the hot chair, and watching the sunset and the stars appear!! We can't wait to go back again! No need to look at any other rentals in the area now. This will be our place!! Thank you to Margie for being a great host and providing anything a guest could possibly need!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

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

peter b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Incredible
This is the best rental property we've ever stayed in. I almost don't want to explain why it's so amazing, as the word will get out and we'll never manage to find another booking, lol. But I must be honest, which requires me to note all the amazing aspects of Baleen. Nicely renovated home, FULLY stocked kitchen (sharp knives, a first!!!), and the sweetest host in Margie. She called us the day of our check in to make sure my mother's accessibility needs were met. And I don't need to mention the view, the pictures don't do it justice. Bring groceries to cook in the amazing kitchen, as you won't ever want to leave this beautiful property. We already want to come back!!
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2023

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

Timothy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Five Big Stars
I've stayed at several properties in Mendocino and this is, by far, my favorite. Very private and secluded, but still close enough to town. The property is exactly as advertised - everything was clean and well maintained. The kitchen is well stocked and appointed. The bathrooms, bedrooms, and living areas all were top notch. The views of Navarro Beach and the ocean really can't be beat. Don't think I will want to stay anywhere else.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Steve S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome
Thank you Margie for letting us enjoy another amazing visit to Baleen. Always a peaceful and relaxing weekend with amazing views and amenities. Hope to come back soon!!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Noel C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Best view anywhere on the coast!
We loved our stay, beautiful home, great location, unreal views in every direction. We had deer, rabbits , foxes and lots of birds. The cleaning crew could do a better job,lots of dust and dirt around fridge and couch. We have stayed in a lot of places along the coast, this is the best yet! Great communications with the owner very helpful.***** five stars!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Laura C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A little slice of heaven!
What a great house, a great location and, a great host! After more than twenty visits to the coast, we've had one bad experience, many really good experiences and now this chart topper! Margie takes all the extra steps to make sure your stay is the best it can be. We'll be back!
Stayed 13 nights in Sep 2022

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

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests