For those seeking the iconic vistas of the rugged coast, 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 to experience locally sourced seasonal ingredients with dramatic Pacific Ocean views.
Located about 150 miles North of San Francisco in Mendocino County along a secluded stretch of Highway, Harbor House sits on the cliff above a private cove with panoramic views of the coastline. The inn, restaurant, and farm all work together to celebrate the bounty of the Mendocino Coast with an ethos that nature is in charge. The hotel’s six rooms and five stand-alone cottages feature garden, ocean, and meadow views. From the Meadowview room watch adorable Scottish Cattle roam. The Madrone Cottage has an ocean view patio, a fully equipped kitchen, and a cozy dining area.
Built in 1916 when the Goodyear Redwood Company bought the L.E. White Lumber Mill and the Harbor House land. The company then hired Louis Christian Mullgardt to build a house that was designed to showcase the beauty of redwood serving as a space for company events and eventually becoming an inn. The current owner purchased Harbor House in 2005. A recent renovation focused on sustainability with all electricity coming from renewable solar and geothermal sources and also added luxurious interior design details to their accommodations. The cozy rooms, appointed with classic California interiors with traditional furniture and modern amenities, offer an optimal setting to enjoy the natural beauty of the Mendocino Coast.
In 2018 Chef Matthew Kammerer became the executive chef Of Harbor House. Already known for their culinary program, Kammerer’s soulful and innovative approach to creating a tasting menu that sources ingredients from the immediate surroundings and prepares dishes with creativity precision. This focus on ‘purity in cuisine’ and warm hospitality has both made this a coveted reservation and earned Harbor House multiple awards and two Michelin stars. Wine chosen by Wine director Kelly Eckel with a particular focus on California and French wines that complement Kammerer’s menus.
Local means local here where dishes might include a savory infusion of sea vegetables, Mt. Lassen trout with cherry leaf and umeboshi, or local abalone poached in sake, and house made marigold ices cream made with blossoms growing just steps away from the kitchen. Kammerer grows and harvests multiple edible flowers in the lush natural gardens where guests can also sit by the fire pit at night under the stars.
It’s an idyllic destination to experience the natural splendor of this rugged and romantic topography, but for most guests the draw is the culinary experience. Kammerer’s ever changing seasonal tasting menus celebrate local ingredients and purveyors. 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 the sought-after tasting menus, Harbor House has become known for their in-room breakfasts. Inspired by Japanese breakfast, guests start the day with a series of vibrant dishes plated on gorgeous ceramic that also celebrate the bounty of the area. Coffee is from Norcal roaster Black Oak Coffee.
Local activities include visits to the town of Mendocino, hikes in redwood forests, horseback riding on nearby Irish Beach, what watching, fishing, kayaking, and wine tasting. Throughout Harbor House ceramic vessels and plates are by local potters including Cliff Glover Pottery, who’s studio is nearby and open for visitors.
Overall, staying at Harbor House feels like visiting your friend who has found the best coastal views and loves to invite guests to share in the magic. It’s blend of luxury, serenity, and culinary exploration that makes this boutique property a sought-after choice for anyone seeking an unforgettable coastal adventure.
Top Takeaways
Location: Elk, California
Address: 5600 South Highway 1, Elk, CA 95432
Rating: Four-Star
The vibe: Relaxing inn with views of the picturesque rugged coastline
Food + Drink: A culinary destination to experience local California cuisine by a talented chef and kitchen team who seek to surprise guests with soulful cooking and creativity
Our Favorite Part of the Hotel: The food. Eating the food with the view. It’s a feast for the eyes and all of the senses.
Amenities: Wonderful breakfast; Free WiFi access to coastal activities
What’s Nearby? The quaint towns of Ek and Mendocino, Irish Beach, wineries
Any personal neighborhood recs? Book a horseback ride with Ross Ranch (https://rossranch.biz ) to ride across the bluff and down the path to Irish Beach. On a clear day from November through April you just might spot a whale during the ride
Rooms: 11 rooms and cottages.
Pricing: Rates start at $670 per night.
Closest Airport: Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (STS)
