BlueDoor Cottage- An Island Favorite!
5.0
Outstanding(133 Reviews)House in Balboa Island, CA
8 guests · 4 bedrooms · 2 baths
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Includes essentialsGarden, Kitchen or Kitchenette, Air conditioner and more
Book with confidenceWe partner with the top travel sites so you know you're getting a great deal on the perfect rental
About this house rental
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.
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.
Amenities
Air conditioner
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Dishwasher
TV
Garden
Family friendly
Map of Balboa Island, CA
Reviews
5.0
Outstanding(133 Reviews)5.0
We had a happy time at the beach with stand-up paddle boards and beach toys, kept the kids all busy and happy. It was a great time for the cousins to bond with each other.
We had great meals and chatting around the outdoor dining table.
The kids all slept very well and comfortably!
5.0
We recently spent 7 days at the Blue Door Cottage and it was awesome! Pete was great with communication from beginning to end answering all our questions and offering recommendations. He even arranged for my husband to golf at a nearby golf course - over the top kind!
We were a family of 5 adults and 2 toddlers (3 and 4). The bedrooms were set up perfect for us and the kiddos loved having their own cute bedroom with port hole nightlights! The hosts had a board of cheese. meats, crackers and cookies in the frig on our arrival as well as a bottle of wine. Since our flight was delayed multiple times it was late when we arrived and we were all hungry so it was just perfect for us! We spent 2 days in the Disney parks which is a short 25 minute drive from the island. We also rented a Duffy boat on the island for a 2 hour tour and brought our own snacks & wine - a delightful way to self tour the area by water. Unfortunately our mini van we rented was too long to fit in the garage at the property but we never had an issue finding parking on the street. The front patio is quaint-we ate dinner out there most nights (take out from near by restaurants). The location of the property is an easy walk to the main street on the island as well as the ferry. The island itself is a very quiet and relaxed place - bummer that construction was happening on both sides of us during the day making it tough to take a nap.
The updated furnished house and fresh cut flowers made our stay perfect!
5.0
We had a wonderful week at this property. Peter was so very hospitable. We will be back.
5.0
We loved our stay at this cottage . It’s on a quiet street and so close to everything on the island and easy in and out.
We came to celebrate our daughter’s graduation and brought our family. We found it to be a very special place. Loved that it is almost 100 years old, retaining the cute vintage charming feel, while it has modern touches and everything you need to relax and gather around meals inside or outdoor on the huge patio.
owner is a great host and responded very quick to any questions we had. We will definitely recommend it and book it again.
5.0
Our fourth time staying here and just as amazing as the first!
5.0
We loved everything about this house! From the location, to the decor, to the communication with Pete, everything was spectacular. Hope to stay again!
5.0
Perfect weekend on Balboa Island. Great home and hosts. Would stay again.
5.0
Had a terrific visit to Blue Door Cottage! Pete made sure everything was perfect for our stay. Can’t wait to come back.
5.0
The Blue Door Cottage is a dream. Built circa 1928, it oozes character and charm. We absolutely loved our stay and cannot wait to come back!
5.0
Balboa Island has always been my favorite place to stay, but this was the first time I stayed on the littke island . I loved it !! The Blue Door Cottage was pristine and so cozy . I stayed here for two weeks by myself (my brother came for a few days) after my mom died . It was the perfect place to heal and rest !
I will be back
5.0
We LOVED staying in this charming cottage - pictures didn't do it justice! Location was great and the host was very responsive & helpful when we were hoping to get in earlier than normal check-in time. Would absolutely stay here again!
5.0
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!
5.0
The house is warm and welcoming
There was a very generous charcuterie & cheese board with wine for our arrival
Communication was excellent
Thank you for letting us stay in your lovely Balboa home
5.0
We came for a wedding and wanted something on the island in order to walk around and to the ferry. This house was perfectly located within a minutes walk to the Marine where all of the shops and restaurants are. The island was lit up beautifully for Christmas. Everything was so festive! Peter was an excellent and responsive host. Easily reachable by text and very friendly. He left wine and cheese, which was a nice touch. The only reason I left 4 stars for cleanliness was because there was quite a bit of pet hair- no big deal and I know it’s hard to get all of it, but that might deter someone with allergies or at least they’d be able to prepare with some antihistamine. Minus that small detail, it was a wonderful stay and the cottage is absolutely adorable, cozy and could not be in a better spot. Thank you!!
5.0
Our recent stay at the Balboa Island house had its highlights, particularly the charming location. However, cleanliness issues, like dirty couch covers and bedding, tempered our overall experience. While we didn't expect a 5-star Ritz Carlton experience as we were renting a VRBO beach house, a more thorough cleaning and some updates to furnishings would enhance the house's appeal and justify its premium pricing. With attention to detail, this property could become an exceptional vacation home. We appreciate Pete rectifying the situation, and his prompt and attentive responses to our concerns, but hope these considerations benefit future guests and elevate the property's potential.
5.0
It was perfect
5.0
Once again, we loved our time at Blue Door Cottage. The 5 of us were so excited to return and hoped we would enjoy it as much as our initial visit in 2021, which we did. Pete’s welcome snacks / treats were appreciated by us all and he was accessible any time we had a question. We can’t wait to come back again, and again.
5.0
First of all, Peter is such a gracious host! The best! The cottage is absolutely perfect. Our Balboa Island vacation is now a well-loved tradition by our family. We like it so much it is hard to leave!
5.0
This is a 6 star place ! They went above and beyond my expectations . I stayed here with my family. The place is so charming , clean and has all the amenities . We went bicycling ,kayaking and paddle boarding !They also had a charcuterie board of food and wine waiting for us at arrival ! Simply amazing !!! Will come back here again ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5.0
Blue Door Cottage is THE PLACE to be anytime of year. Peter is the most amazing most, and the home is the cutest home to spend time with family and friends. The location is PRIMO! 5 minute walk to Marine Ave (shopping and food), 30 seconds to the beach, and the front patio/courtyard is the best place to enjoy a cocktail or meal. My family and I will be coming to the Blue Door Cottage to create even more memories!
5.0
Great house. Great location. Pete was responsive and helpful plus he left some tasty treats on the fridge for our arrival. Would definitely stay again!
5.0
Wanted to run away together for a few days together as a family before one kid back to college and two others back to high school. The home has all of the charm of an old beach cottage -But every detail is modern, beautiful and comfortable. The kids loved the paddle boards and Kayaks and our whole family went on the bikes, riding together across the Ferry to the Peninsula and into town for meals and ice cream. There are great TVs in the house but you won’t want to use them. Sit on the deck enjoying the host provided treats - play cards and enjoy being a family together for a few days. The host truly enjoys providing a great experience. Can’t wait to do it again!
5.0
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.
5.0
This was a week that we will never forget. We have younger children, and I could not think of a better place. Close proximity to the beach, safe home, all was amazing!
They had plenty of items like paddle boards, bikes and kayaks to enjoy. Pete is an awesome manager, and even helped me with items I forgot to pack up! Could not recommend more.
5.0
Thank you so much to our host Pete. He went above and beyond to accommodate my husband and our four grandchildren. We’ve been coming to the island for 40 years and this was our first stay on the little island. Charming cottage, perfectly suited for a family, amenities abound! Can’t wait to return with our crew!
5.0
This home is completely updated, charming and a great quiet location. The host was great and gave us a welcome basket. Beautiful patio and tons of amenities that most other houses dont offer. Loved our time here.
5.0
Incredible home with the best decor!! Fabulous location. Just a few blocks from the main street with all the shops and restaurants. The house is stocked with everything you need. My family enjoyed the beach cruisers and boogie boards! We will be back!!
5.0
Gorgeous cottage, great location and Pete (the owner) is top notch. Wonderful experience all around.
5.0
Thank you for making our trip so memorable. We loved everything about Blue Door Cottage and can't wait to stay in the future.
5.0
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!
5.0
As an annual pilgrimage for my family in the Midwest, we have explored the coast of Southern California, and have visited many places. This year, considering that I am local, we decided to give Balboa a try. After looking at a few different properties, we stumbled upon the blue door cottage. All I can say is that I am so happy that we did!
For people that aren’t familiar with the area, Balboa Island is a step back in time. However, the island is divided into two. Where the blue door cottage is situated, it is on a very quiet part of the island yet just a two minute walk from the very quaint and small downtown strip. From shops to restaurants to iconic locations that have been in movies, you have it all. The atmosphere is friendly, of course, safe, and the people are a mix of longtime locals and visitors from all over the world. It is definitely welcoming and conducive to daytime or nighttime walks with views that are literally worth millions of dollars.
With regard to the cottage, upon our check-in, our gracious hosts were the type to go above and beyond. From suggestions in advance with regard to places to check out to the welcome platter and charcuterie board with a bottle of wine to boot. Definitely a five-star experience!
We were fortunate to have stayed long enough to truly get a taste of island living. The cottage has so much character that every turn of your head has something welcoming to make you smile. From the art on the walls to the books on the coffee tables, it was amazing. It allowed you to not only step back in time, but to also revel in the history of the island and the southern California lifestyle. We were a party of seven, and everyone was extremely comfortable in the rooms that were more than well appointed with towels in the bathrooms and linens in the bedrooms as well as pillows and throws on the sofas. It was nearly impossible to be uncomfortable in this cottage. If getting some exercise is in your repertoire, the cottage garage has everything from bicycles to use on the island to kayaks to bodyboards and even toys for the little ones to play in the sand at the beach. Speaking of sand, you are literally a couple hundred feet away from the sand overlooking Newport Harbor. Absolutely stunning to go out and sit on the bench, or along the seawall and enjoy the view while people pass by with friendly attitudes.
The only drawback to this whole vacation was that it was not longer. We’ll definitely be back! 💜
5.0
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!
5.0
Looks just like pictures. Well equipped. The garage alone is worth it as there paddleboards, bikes, kayak, beach towels, toys. Life vest! I have hauled all these things to Balboa before so it was a gift to have them there. Robes in the closets! I cook every night and enjoyed the kitchen. The big East facing patio is a big win. We would enjoy the morning and noon sun. Later we would have cheese and wine on the patio table at 5 and then go in to the dining room for dinner when it was colder. My master bed was very comfortable. Location was perfect. Water right there and short walk to Irvine ranch market. The little twins are best for younger kids. Though my sister stayed in one.l for a couple nights. A thicker mattress, maybe foam pad would help them a bit. I really appreciate that the house still kept its old balboa charm as so many have been mansionized. Peter was a perfect host.
5.0
WOW! This property was the best VRBO property my family and I have ever stayed out--everyone agreed. Not only is the house itself very charming and cute, but all the amenities were fantastic. Peter does not miss a beat on making this home warm, comfortable, and cozy. Toys, games, throws, robes, unbelievable welcome gifts, lots of towels, an awesomely stocked kitchen (best knives and most kitchen towels we have encountered ever). Even a mostly rainy week didn't dampen our spirits. Rent this property for a wonderful time. Thank you Peter.
5.0
2nd year at the Blue Door, and it was a cozy and comfortable retreat for our family of 6 to enjoy all the charm of Balboa Island and Newport Beach. Pete was so gracious and hospitable to welcome us in with thoughtful touches for our family. We loved it so much even thought we had some rainy weather with board games and movie nights. Can’t wait to come back another year in the future. Thank you!
5.0
Our stay at The Blue Door Cottage was amazing! Pete was extremely accommodating and his beautifully renovated property gives you the quintessential Balboa Island experience with all of the charm. We started our weekend with a basket of treats and a charcuterie platter waiting for us when we arrived. Such a thoughtful touch! Everything you need for a memorable beach getaway is suppled which was wonderful. To sum it up, The Blue Door Cottage is simply perfect!
5.0
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 .
5.0
Everyone loved it. They appreciated the owners keeping its historical authenticity while also making sure it was comfortable, efficient and beautifully outfitted for a great beach stay.
5.0
What began as a COVID staycation has now turned into an annual tradition. Pete, the owner, is always super responsive and really goes out of his way to make sure that we have a wonderful stay. The location on Little Balboa is perfect - walking distance to everything and minimal traffic (so the kids can play out front or walk down to the water). When we're not cooking in the well stocked kitchen, we're taking a short walk to Marine Ave to eat at one of many restaurants!
5.0
I booked this cottage for a long weekend with 4 of my girlfriend to celebrate my birthday. It as perfect. This is such a darling restored cottage on Balboa. It is well stock with everything you could want. The owners attention to detail is spot on. We can't wait to go back!
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Balboa Island?
The average price for a rental in Balboa Island is $655 per night. This rental is $430 above the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at BlueDoor Cottage- An Island Favorite! . For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this house?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this house. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is BlueDoor Cottage- An Island Favorite! pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this house is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at BlueDoor Cottage- An Island Favorite! ?
We found 11 amenities for this rental. This includes air conditioner, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, fireplace, and parking.
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