Entire home

BlueDoor Cottage- A Balboa Island Favorite w AC!

Waterfront holiday home with kitchen and patio

Photo gallery for BlueDoor Cottage- A Balboa Island Favorite w AC!

Quintessential Balboa Island Cottage - 1928
Charming Cottage with dutch doors and a large patio.
Back patio perfect for your morning coffee.
Little Island Charm
Chefs kitchen with farmhouse and all new appliances

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

View in a map
  • Place, Fashion Island
  • Place, Balboa Pier
  • Place, Corona del Mar State Beach
  • Airport, Orange County, CA (SNA-John Wayne)

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 4

2 Child Beds

Master Bedroom

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only · Outdoor shower

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Outdoor shower
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

BlueDoor Cottage- A Balboa Island Favorite w AC!

Classic 1928 Balboa Island cottage, recently restored for your relaxing beach vacation, and featured in Cottages & Bugalow magazine. Located on the Little Island with a very short walk to all the shops & restaurants on Marine Ave, and only a few doors away from the famous Newport Bay. The cottage has Air-conditioning, plus ceiling fans, a coveted garage to park your car, and has 4 beach cruisers, 2 kayaks and 2 standup paddle boards to explore the Island. The Blue Door Cottage has one of the largest patios on the island which gives you plenty of room to enjoy outdoor dining and the sun right outside the blue dutch door. One of the highest rated homes on Balboa Island, the Blue Door Cottage was designed for families to enjoy time together and enjoy the bay.

Sleeps 8 people in 4 bedrooms, with 6 beds, and is not filled with bunk beds, pull out sofa beds or trundles to increase occupancy. The master has an Eastern King w TV, second bedroom has a Queen with a flat screen TV, third has two cute twin beds, and the 4th bedroom - The Little Mariners room, which looks like a ship with two built-in twin cots, for children, teens or smaller adults.

The charming cottage, has a large bright and airy great room downstairs with lots of comfy couches so ample room for everyone to socialize, watch TV and play games with your family and friends.

The dining room has a long solid wood farm house table and seating for 8 to enjoy meals indoors, and the patio has a long rectangle table with umbrella and seating for 8 so you can enjoy meals outside. There is also a round patio table with 4 chairs on back patio right off the brand new kitchen. The commercial range and farm house sink will delight the chef who wants to prepare home cooked meals. The coveted Little Island location is ultra close to the shops and restaurants on Marine Ave so it's very quick walk to go wander down to get a Balboa Bar or Famous Chocolate covered banana for dessert.

The cottage is stocked with beach towels, and all the toys to enjoy the Island, such as two 2person -kayaks, two standup paddle boards, 4 beach cruisers, chairs, and beach toys. Fun to play in the bay or head across the Ferry to the Wedge or Pier.

The little island is coveted for it's quicker and easy access on and off the island, so you can take day trips to Disneyland, Knott's Berry Farm, shop & dine at South Coast Plaza or Fashion Island, and go see the many other Southern California Attractions. The coveted garage allows you to always have a place to park your car, if you decide to leave heaven. But almost everything is Uber close, and no car is necessary, as walking around the Island is the best mode of transportation.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 26
Check out before 11:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
All bedrooms are located on the second floor
default

Events

No events allowed
There is a city 10:00pm outdoor noise policy
default

Pets

No pets allowed
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load the dishwasher
Remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Use of kayaks, SUPS and beach cruisers require a waiver signature. All guests must adhere City of NB noise abatement & short term lodging laws.

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: There is a city 10:00pm outdoor noise policy
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
Property Registration Number SLP12875

We should mention

A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Newport Beach

Located in Balboa Island, a neighbourhood in Newport Beach, this holiday home is near theme parks and on the waterfront. Newport Pier and Pelican Hill Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Crystal Cove State Park and Orange County Great Park. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's going on at Bren Events Center, or consider a night out at The Observatory. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Newport Beach, CA

What's nearby

  • Fashion Island - 2 min drive - 1.5 km
  • Balboa Pier - 3 min drive - 1.5 km
  • Balboa Beach - 3 min drive - 1.9 km
  • Corona del Mar State Beach - 4 min drive - 2.6 km
  • Newport Pier - 7 min drive - 4.9 km

Getting around

  • Orange Station - 20 min drive
  • Orange County, CA (SNA-John Wayne) - 24 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Peet's Coffee & Tea - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Harborside Restaurant & Grand - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Todos Santos | Kitchen De Mexico - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪The Galley Cafe - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Dad's Original Frozen Banana - ‬6 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is BlueDoor Cottage- A Balboa Island Favorite w AC! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at BlueDoor Cottage- A Balboa Island Favorite w AC!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at BlueDoor Cottage- A Balboa Island Favorite w AC!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is BlueDoor Cottage- A Balboa Island Favorite w AC! located?

Located in Balboa Island, this holiday home is 1 mi (1.5 km) from Newport Harbor Nautical Museum and 1.5 mi (2.4 km) from Fashion Island. Balboa Fun Zone and Balboa Pier are also within 1 mile (2 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. 157 out of 159 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 159 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 159 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 159 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 159 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What an amazing property on Balboa Island. We had an amazing week with family in this well appointed and perfectly located property. The owner was wonderful to work with and we loved the plethora of beach toys, bikes, and so much more. The outdoor space as perfect for our group of 8. I highly recommend this gorgeous cottage!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nancy K.

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

Classic Island Fun

Wonderful time bringing cousins together with the beach, stand up paddle boards, sand and sun! Homey, charming cottage with Wi-Fi!Comfy and very clean beds, slept so well!A very lovely vacation!
Celebrating the forth!
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marguerite L.

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

Lifetime Memory

Charming cottage was everything my husband & I wanted. Adult children and young grandchildren loved it, too, and we had fun using the water equipment. My daughters-in-law and I enjoyed how well-stocked the kitchen was! Very relaxing stay and the Host, Peter, went above & beyond to make our stay special. We LOVED it!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Chuck C.

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

Great house and location

Great place for a family.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Megan R.

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

Great time in Balboa

Perfect weekend on Balboa Island. Great home and hosts. Would stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Julianne W.

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

Love the BDC!

Our fourth time staying here and just as amazing as the first!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Peter V.

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

might be the best place to stay on Balboa island

The "Blue Door Cottage" was great all around. Nice location close to waterfront and main drag, yet very quiet. The interior is very inviting, clean and comfortable. The house has pretty much everything you'd want for the location, including bikes, paddle boards, etc...and all the typical amenities. Pete, the owner, was very accessible and accommodating. We'd definitely book the place again. We looked around at other listings on the island and couldn't find anything that matched the overall value.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kate H.

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

Loved the Blue Door Cottage

We loved everything about this house! From the location, to the decor, to the communication with Pete, everything was spectacular. Hope to stay again!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lynette S.

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

Best Place to stay on Balboa Island

Second time staying at the the Blue Door Cottage for a girls weekend. We love the house, location and the wonderful neighborhood of Balboa Island. Can't wait to go back next year!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Heather N.

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

Blue door cottage is amazing!!

This is our second year staying and would not stay anywhere else! Thank you Pete for another amazing stay-we will see you next summer!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Wendy C., Aurora Ohio

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

Wonderful cottage

Our stay was wonderful . Beautiful area, comfortable furnishings, everything you need and more. The owner is very responsive and friendly . The beds we’re comfortable, the weather was beautiful , what more could we ask for .
Stayed 14 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

MARY KAY L.

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

Blue Door Cottage Holiday

Our second trip to the Blue Door Cottage and everything was perfect! Great for adults and children-the home had every amenity we could wish for and more. Pete and Angi are supreme hosts.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brooke M.

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

Exceptional stay in Newport

Idyllic beach cottage expertly remodeled and immaculately maintained. Host was responsive and flexible with our request to extend our stay. He also had great local recommendations for our family. Hope to return in the future when in the Newport area. Thank you!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christopher D.

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

Weekend Getaway

Stayed over Easter Weekend with family from out of town. Have other family who live close by and stopped over to visit. Easy walk to Main Street on Balboa Island. Close to shopping and dining. Other activities were close by as well. Looking forward to coming back soon!
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lori P.

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

Our stay at the Blue Door Cottage

We had a wonderful week at the cottage! The home is beautiful, so many details & extras - they really did think of everything!! From the robes, to the charcuterie tray & wine surprise, the beach toys to the bikes, paddle boards & kayaks! We enjoyed it all & can hardly wait to go back!!! And our Host Peter was very responsive & helpful!!
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Bill S., Encinitas, CA

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

Balboa Island Cottage Perfection!

We just spent a week at Blue Door Cottage and couldn't have been happier. First, the home is beautifully decorated and very well stocked. The authentic historic details made the home feel cozy, and the modern renovations made it comfortable. The location on Little Balboa Island was perfect for us because it was a bit quieter. But it was a 3 minute walk to Marine Ave stores and restaurants. Pete the owner couldn't have been more hospitable or responsive. We loved our stay and the entire experience!
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Kristi D.

Perfection

We’ve been renting vacation homes for 20 years now and the blue door cottage is by far our favorite! It’s so charming and perfectly appointed that it is impossible not to love it. Pete provides great customer service and is extremely helpful and prompt responding to any questions. Do not hesitate to book this for your vacation- you’ll fall in love immediately!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Devon M.

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

Cannot wait to return!

I cannot say enough how amazing our stay was. Not only was the home absolutely beautiful, but it was clean, comfortable, perfectly decorated and had everything we needed and some! Our host Pete could not have been better either. He was so easy to communicate with, very pleasant and welcoming. And the meat and cheese tray, wine and snacks left for us were so appreciated! Our kids were so sad to leave on Sunday. Next time I hope we are able to longer!! Thank you so much for everything!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelly B., Lake Oswego, OR

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

Perfect House, Perfect Location

This house is adorable and in a perfect location. Peter was a fabulous host and so communicative. We had such a great vacation. The island is adorable but also centrally located so we went to West Hollywood for a day, we went to Disneyland for a day. We visited Laguna Beach. On the island we rented. Duffy boat (thanks for the suggestion Peter) we biked all over and took the ferry over to the peninsula. We parasailed, paddle boarded,. We walked around and shopped, there was tons to do but also loved hanging out in such a great house. Highly recommend the Bkue Door Cottage.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mike R.

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

Relaxing Stay in Balboa

My wife and I were looking for a final summer getaway with our four children, before the school year begins. When we saw all of the positive reviews for the Blue Door Cottage, we couldn't pass it up. The cottage did not disappoint. Actually, it is the best rental we have stayed in. This is likely due to the fact that it doesn't feel like a rental at all, but a second home. Pete went the extra mile to make us feel welcome and comfortable. We were welcomed with snacks and a wonderful cheese tray. He gave us local tips on where to go and how to get around the island. We loved being able to use the bikes to cruise around the island and cross the ferry to Newport. The beach chairs, umbrellas, boards, and other beach equipment made our trips to the beach easy. The house is cool, comfortable, and everyone slept well. Our favorite part of our stay was how peaceful everything was. The house has a relaxing vibe to it. We felt like we stepped away from the world for a few days, and all the stressors of life, and were able to recharge together. Amazing.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Devon V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Always amazing. Our 3rd week at the Blue Door was full of memories and an opportunity to disconnect for our busy day to day.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brian R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The bluedoor cottage is as advertised. Such a cute, comfortable home with a great host! We wish we had longer to stay. The home had everything we needed and more. The garage is outfitted with plenty of toys and creature comforts for the beach. We would recommend it to anyone and looking forward to coming back longer. Short walk to shops, food and beach. Even spent a night on the bay in a Duffy at the hosts suggestion. Great trip all around.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Isabella A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
One of the best homes we have ever stayed in . Everything from check in to check out was perfect . We can’t wait to go back . Our whole family misses it already . Super location, super clean, best house ever
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
First time on this side of the island...The property was amazing! The hospitality and amenities made our short stay perfect! Bikes, canoes, and paddle boards kept the kids busy and happy. We booked last minute and stumbled upon a gem!!! We will be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Meghanne K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great stay at Blue Door Cottage! The house is so clean, warm, and inviting. We appreciated how well stocked the home was and the attention to detail in the decor. The owner was also great about making sure we had everything we needed during our stay! We hope to stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

About the host

Hosted by Peter

Host profile image
Our family has lived in Newport Beach our entire lives, on and off the Island. We were married on a dock on the bay, and our children have enjoyed all the pleasures of this amazing place. We hope you can build similar memories.

Why they chose this property

One of the BIGGEST PATIO's on the island, interior designers delight and Location, Location, Location. The Little Island is the premier part of the island. It's quiet, streets are wider, no over head wires and it's closer to the shops and restaurants on Marine Ave. The two story cottage sits on 2/3 of the lot and has a huge front yard and a mature shade tree. Providing a large outdoor space for enjoying family bbq's, and dining. This restored cottage has the charm of one of a1928 cottage with modern luxury of air-conditioning, and a chef's kitchen. This is our treasured home which we will share with a few lucky families. Homes rarely sell on the little island. They stay in the family for generations.

What makes this property unique

Huge Patio with Big Tree. Not to be redundant but nothing is better than waking up and walking around the Island. The majority of crowds walk the Big Island, and have no idea there is a little island. It's a secret. You can get on and off the island quickly to go visit other OC area attractions or you can park your car and never leave.

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests