For those seeking the iconic views of the rugged coastline, Harbor House in Elk, near Mendocino, has also become a sought-after destination for culinary adventurers. With a two-Michelin-starred restaurant helmed by Chef Matthew Kammerer, this 11-room boutique inn offers ocean and meadow views and an elegant menu that showcases locally sourced seasonal ingredients with dramatic views of the Pacific.
Located about 150 miles north of San Francisco in Mendocino County, Harbor House is located on a secluded stretch of highway on a bluff overlooking a private cove with panoramic coastal views. The inn, restaurant and farm work together to celebrate the bounty of the Mendocino Coast, with a mindset that nature is king. The hotel’s six rooms and five freestanding cottages offer garden, ocean and meadow views. From the Meadowview room, you can see sweet Scottish cattle roaming. The Madrone Cottage features an ocean-view deck, a full kitchen and a cozy dining area.
Built in 1916 when the Goodyear Redwood Company purchased the LE White Lumber Mill and the Harbor House property. The company then commissioned Louis Christian Mullgardt to build a home that would showcase the beauty of the redwood lumber and serve as a venue for corporate events before eventually becoming an inn. The current owner purchased Harbor House in 2005. A recent renovation emphasized sustainability with all electricity coming from renewable solar and geothermal sources and added luxurious interior features to the accommodations. Featuring classic California interiors, traditional furnishings and modern amenities, the cozy rooms provide an optimal environment to enjoy the natural beauty of the Mendocino Coast.
In 2018, Chef Matthew Kammerer was named Executive Chef of Harbor House. Already known for his culinary program, Kammerer’s soulful and innovative approach creates a tasting menu that sources ingredients from the immediate area and prepares dishes with creative precision. This focus on “purity in the kitchen” and warm hospitality has made this a coveted reservation and earned Harbor House several awards and two Michelin stars. Wine is selected by Wine Director Kelly Eckel, with a particular emphasis on California and French wines that complement Kammerer’s menus.
Local means local here, as dishes can include a zesty mix of sea vegetables, Lassen trout with cherry leaves and umeboshi, or local abalone poached in sake and homemade marigold ice cream made from flowers that grow just steps from the kitchen. Kammerer grows and harvests numerous edible flowers in the lush natural gardens, where guests can also sit by the fire pit under the stars at night.
It’s an idyllic destination to experience the natural splendor of this rugged and romantic topography, but for most guests, it’s the culinary experience that’s the attraction. Kammerer’s ever-changing seasonal tasting menus celebrate local ingredients and suppliers. Harbor House has its own farm and ranch in nearby Point Arena, where guests are invited to meet farmer Amy Smith, who works closely with the restaurant team to provide optimal seasonal produce.
In addition to its coveted tasting menus, Harbor House has become known for its in-room breakfast. Inspired by Japanese breakfasts, guests begin the day with an array of colorful dishes served on beautiful ceramic plates that also celebrate the region’s bounty. Coffee is from Norcal roast Black Oak Coffee.
On-site activities include visiting the town of Mendocino, hiking in redwood forests, horseback riding at nearby Irish Beach, wading, fishing, kayaking and wine tasting. Throughout the Harbor House, ceramic vessels and plates are made by local potters, including Cliff Glover Pottery, whose studio is nearby and open to visitors.
Overall, a stay at Harbor House feels like visiting a friend who has found the most beautiful coastal views and is happy to invite guests to share in the magic. The blend of luxury, tranquility and culinary discovery makes this boutique hotel a sought-after choice for those seeking an unforgettable coastal adventure.
Key findings
Location: Elk, California
Address: 5600 South Highway 1, Elk, California 95432
Evaluation: Four-star
The atmosphere: Relaxing guest house overlooking the picturesque rugged coastline
Food + Drink: A culinary destination to experience local Californian cuisine from a talented chef and kitchen team who strive to surprise their guests with soulful cuisine and creativity.
Our favorite part of the hotel: The food. Food with a view. It is a feast for the eyes and all the senses.
Furnishing: Wonderful breakfast; free Wi-Fi access to coastal activities
What’s nearby? The picturesque towns of Ek and Mendocino, Irish Beach, wineries
Any personal recommendations from the neighborhood? Book a horseback ride with Ross Ranch (https://rossranch.biz) to ride over the cliff and down the trail to Irish Beach. On a clear day from November to April, you may be able to spot a whale during the ride.
Rooms: 11 rooms and cottages.
Pricing: Prices start at $670 per night.
Nearest airport: Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (STS)
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