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Balboa Island 2 Bdm / 2 Bath Vacation Home - Duck House

Family-friendly stay near Corona del Mar State Beach

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Photo gallery for Balboa Island 2 Bdm / 2 Bath Vacation Home - Duck House

Dining
Smart TV, books, music library
2 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets
Exterior detail
Terrace/patio

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4167 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Free WiFi
  • Outdoor Space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View in a map
Newport Beach, CA
  • Place, Balboa Fun Zone
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Balboa Pier
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Balboa Beach
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Airport, Orange County, CA (SNA-John Wayne)
    ‪17 min drive‬

Room options

About the area

Newport Beach

Seaside stay .Your stay at this Balboa Island vacation home places you within 3 miles (5 km) of Fashion Island and Newport Beach Pier. Balboa Fun Zone and Balboa Peninsula Beaches are also within half a mile (1 km).
View more Vacation homes in Newport BeachOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Balboa Fun Zone - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Newport Harbor Nautical Museum - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Balboa Peninsula Beaches - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Balboa Pier - 8 min walk - 0.8 km
  • Balboa Beach - 8 min walk - 0.8 km

Getting around

  • Laguna Niguel Station - 21 min drive
  • John Wayne Airport (SNA) - 11 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Harborside Restaurant & Grand - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Cruisers Pizza Bar Grill - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Todos Santos | Kitchen De Mexico - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪The Galley Cafe - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Wilma's Patio Restaurant - ‬13 min walk

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Balboa Island 2 Bdm / 2 Bath Vacation Home - Duck House

An original 1937 family beach cottage on Balboa Island -
Duck House. Welcome to my home, a fully functioning home. Experience Balboa Island, in this 2 bedroom/2 bath house. Whether two couples or a small family or any other collection of humanoids - vintage cottage built in 1937 to enjoy. I have worked to maintain the cottage charm while including modern conveniences. I would love to host you at Duck House. Please contact me with any/all questions.
Duck House is furnished as if I was living there - my guests often comment (on another site that I have been using since June 2017) that I have provided everything and more. You are really staying in My Home - not some beach crash pad (Balboa Peninsula has those).
The pictures and virtual tour will show you all about the Duck House - there is nothing to hide.
I have had guests/visitors from all over the world stay at the Duck House - many have come back or will be in the coming months. My girlfriend and I have been invited by our guests to join them on the patio for appetizers and wine - not required but this is Balboa Island - you are on "island" time.
There have been a few recent updates to the Duck House. The blinds in the front bedroom and living room are new cordless faux wood blinds. The kitchen has recessed lights and a new remote fan. The kitchen to patio doors have brand new cordless shades. Lastly, both toilets have been replaced. A new headboard in the master bedroom. There may be other updates between my writing of this description and when you arrive - all with the goal of maintaining the original charm.
Suggestions are always welcome.

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Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby
  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car not required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Music library
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Fenced yard
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundromat nearby

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed
  • Note from host: No smoking anywhere on the premises

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Limited housekeeping

Location highlights

  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near the marina
  • Near the sea

Things to do

  • Basketball nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Parasailing nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkeling nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Theme park nearby
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Unit size: 1,800 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: Families have stayed, it is not a playground

Events

No events allowed
Small gatherings must be pre-approved

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No smoking anywhere on the premises

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Small gatherings must be pre-approved
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. Note from host: Small gatherings must be pre-approved For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.

Property Registration Number SLP12455

Property is also known as

Balboa Island Cottage 2 Bdm/2 Bath Duck House
Cottage 2 Bdm/2 Bath Duck House
Balboa Island Cottage 2 Bdm/2 Bath Duck
Cottage 2 Bdm/2 Bath Duck
Balboa 2 Bdm 2 Bath Duck House
Balboa Island Cottage 2 Bdm/2 Bath Duck House
Balboa Island Cottage 2 Bdm / 2 Bath Duck House
Balboa Island Cottage 2 Bdm/2 Bath - Duck House Newport Beach

Frequently asked questions

How close is Balboa Island 2 Bdm / 2 Bath Vacation Home - Duck House to the airport?

This vacation home is 6.9 mi (11-min drive) away from the John Wayne Airport (SNA) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does Balboa Island 2 Bdm / 2 Bath Vacation Home - Duck House have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this vacation home.

How close is Balboa Island 2 Bdm / 2 Bath Vacation Home - Duck House to the beach?

This vacation home is 2.6 mi (6-min drive) from Corona del Mar State Beach and 5.9 mi (10-min drive) from Huntington Beach Beaches. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does Balboa Island 2 Bdm / 2 Bath Vacation Home - Duck House offer free breakfast?

This vacation home does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Balboa Island 2 Bdm / 2 Bath Vacation Home - Duck House?

No, there is no casino at this vacation home.

What time is check-in at Balboa Island 2 Bdm / 2 Bath Vacation Home - Duck House?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Balboa Island 2 Bdm / 2 Bath Vacation Home - Duck House?

Free parking is not available at this vacation home.

Does Balboa Island 2 Bdm / 2 Bath Vacation Home - Duck House have a pool?

This vacation home does not have a pool.

Does Balboa Island 2 Bdm / 2 Bath Vacation Home - Duck House have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this vacation home.

How close is Balboa Island 2 Bdm / 2 Bath Vacation Home - Duck House to downtown Newport Beach?

This vacation home is 2 mi away from Newport Beach.

Balboa Island 2 Bdm / 2 Bath Vacation Home - Duck House Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 20 out of 22 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 22 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 22 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 22 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 22 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sandy G.

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

Our second stay!

It was wonderful - everything we hoped for.
Stayed 10 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Linda E.

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

Our Duck House!

I consider the Duck House our second home!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl B.

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

Balboa Island Re-Visit

2nd time renting the Duck House and really enjoyed it. Clean and well stocked. Gracious hosts
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robin R.

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

Three Times All Charming

It was my third time at The Duck House, and enjoyed each stay very much!
Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Park City Pacific LLC W.

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

Perfect!

Wonderful! Would definitely stay here again, super comfortable great location really nice manager
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Deborah R.

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

Second Stay at Duck House

Our second stay at the Duck House was as memorable as the first, pre Covid. The charming cottage has all the comforts of home: a well equipped kitchen, comfortable beds, nicely furnished, fluffy towels, and every board game imaginable. It's in a great location, too. Within walking distance to coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques; and close to the ferry. Lovely neighbors, too. Already looking forward to returning to the Duck House, but staying longer!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tom G.

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

Perfect for Us

Very clean and comfortable. Had everything we needed. Great location near ferry. Wonderful hosts. Perfect for two couples.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Linda E.

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

Our Second Home

My son and daughter-in-law rented the Duck Inn for my son and I so we could visit them on the Island. It was such a fun week, meeting their friends and spending time with them and my granddaughter. Sincerely, Shirley Ellsworth
Stayed 10 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sandy G.

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

We'll be back!

Craig and Susan are the ultimate hosts. The cottage is well-stocked. We were extremely comfortable. We couldn't have asked for more...Thank you so much, Craig and Susan, for your hospitality. As you know, we've already scheduled a visit next year!
Stayed 9 nights in Apr 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl B.

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

Wonderful

We loved returning to Balboa Island where both my husband and I had lived years ago. The Duck House was the perfect cottage - very nicely decorated and fully equipped with everything you could possibly need. Neighbors were very friendly. A big thank you to Craig for allowing us to enjoy his beautiful property.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Diane H.

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

Great Location

The house was walking distance to stores and restaurants and in a quiet neighborhood. Craig stopped in to say hi and asked if everything was OK. We parked right in front of the house and enjoyed the stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

james p.

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

wonderful getawaay

I hesitate to write this review only because I'd rather keep the Duck House a secret treasure. My wife and I greatly enjoyed our stay here and it was beyond even our most optimistic hopes. Charming house, great location, easy-to-work-with host. It is even nicer than as shown in the photos. We will be back!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Charlotte C.

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

Return to Duck Cottage

A lovely, spacious, well-equipped cottage. Tree-lined streets, near the bay, village atmosphere. Rather tight on the rules; definitely not a party house with wet bathing suits and sand bunnies.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nora T.

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

A place with history

one of the few original properties on the island . Lots of character and all the things you would want in a good hotel. Craig is right there if any problem. Love staying here.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tracy J.

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

A gem of a home!

The Duck House as my family calls it is amazing. Only made more wonderful by the renter Craig and his amazing Susan. It’s like staying with family. The special touches are perfection! The location, weather etc is wonderful!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen P.

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

Perfect biking getaway

Perfect location for biking Balboa, Newport, Huntington. The Duck House was very clean and comfortable. All the amenities you would need. Added extra touches. Hospitality from manager was excellent. Will definitely be returning!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nora T.

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

Delightful

This house is a special house. Lot's of history. Neighbors are very friendly. We've are planning on returning next year.
Verified

8/10 Good

Ric M.

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

Duck House just ducky except for the three bears beds

Our stay at the Duck house was very relaxing and enjoyable. Great location to the Ferry and on the less traffic side of the Island. The layout of this house is very nice and livable. Our only complaint is the beds. I ended up sleeping in the queen which seemed a little too hard. My wife tried the two twin beds. One was too soft for her and the other was pretty good.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

michelle e.

The Duck House

Had a wonderful time. This home has a perfect location. It is very clean and has everything you need for a vacation stay . Very sunny front and backyard with seating . Lots of little extras like Keurig coffee maker, Popcorn Maker, BBQ, filtered drinking water, blender, beach towels, a variety of games and extra USB port plug ins and plenty of electrical strips so everything can stay charged! The host was very thoughtful and left a welcoming bottle of wine and chocolate...can't beat that. We will definitely come back to this charming VRBO called "the Duck House"
Stayed 7 nights in May 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Judy B.

Everything was great, the home was well equipped with towels, kitchen utensils and even beach toys!

My only recommendation is perhaps an umbrella for the patio and extra fans during the summer time. We will back next year!
Stayed 28 nights in Jul 2018
Verified

8/10 Good

Claire S.

Cozy cottage in a great location!

Wonderful time on the island! I love the location and ability to step out the door and walk. The owner is friendly and makes visitors feel at home.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kim M.

The Duck House was a perfect spot for a long weekend. Comfortable, convenient and clean.

We really enjoyed our stay at the Duck House. The kitchen was fully stocked, easy walk to the ferry, friendly neighbors, street parking was plentiful and home very comfortable.

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