Seacliff Cottage is a wonderful place. We highly recommend it.
Our three week July-August 2015 stay was an immersion in Seacliff’s beautiful site, design, workmanship and awesome water views. Seacliff as pictured on VRBO accurately captures a beautiful property but experiencing it far exceeds what pictures can capture.
Expansive cliff top water views from each of four principal rooms and the deck to distant islands provided often changing views of sky, water, many birds, including occasional bald eagles, and, on many days, dolphins and seals. Binoculars are highly recommended. With screened windows often open, we were also immersed in the the pleasing sounds of water and wildlife. Temperatures ranged into the 50s some nights with most days reaching upper 60s with some mid 70s as highs.
Humming birds attracted by deck planters full of blooming flowers and a feeder added enjoyment. Swirling, dancing, wave creating and rapidly moving tidal changes were a daily source of wonder for us. Occasional passing boats, kayaks and distant ships added interest to the views. Marinetraffic.com provides ship identification and tracking information in real time.
A shady front entry garden with water feature, visible from kitchen and bath windows, attracted deer, squirrels and colorful birds.
The kitchens half size refrigerator, large chest freezer in the laundry and small dishwasher were sufficient for the two of us.
The attractively tiled single sink bath with large walk in shower is well designed with convenient cabinets and drawers for storage. Our first experience with a compost toilet was completely satisfactory.
Thoughtfully provided in the cottage were instructions for operating appliances as well as information about Orcas activities and dining.
We found the food at nearby (less than 10 minutes) Doe Bay Resort to be very good with a limited dinner and more expansive breakfast menu. The Catkin Café (less than 15 minutes) served a very good lunch and, we heard, a very good breakfast as well. Many other dining options are about 25-30 minutes from Seacliff toward and in Eastsound. When preparing dinner at Seacliff, Buck Bay Shellfish Farm (less than 15 minutes) proved to be an good source of fresh seafood as well as fresh fruits and vegetables.
Doug, our host, was very friendly, responsive and helpful with answers to our questions and very prompt in returning our security deposit.