Perched on the hillside above Van Damme State Beach sits the iconic family-owned coastal resort, Little River Inn. It features ocean view rooms, world-class coastal cuisine, and an Audubon-certified 9-hole golf course.
Built in 1857, the main house is rich in history and visited by locals and tourists alike. James Dean stayed at the inn when filming East of Eden and today one can even stay in the room he resided in. Mendocino’s natural beauty is picture perfect and it’s easy to see why it has and continues to be a desired backdrop for Hollywood movies.
White buildings dot the land and feature various accommodation types with luxe amenities such as a large Jacuzzi bathtub, fireplace, and private balcony. In the evening, one can lounge in a comfy bed and fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the Pacific Ocean.
Waking up in the morning, I was comforted in knowing that a delicious breakfast would be arriving momentarily. I enjoyed items such as their breakfast burrito and Ole’s pancakes. Repeating my morning ritual of coffee and breakfast on the balcony was something I could easily get used to.
There’s plenty of outdoor activities to keep you entertained while on-site. Outside of golf, tennis players can take advantage of the two courts available for booking. If you’re looking for a drink after your round of golf or tennis, Ole’s Whale Watch Bar is a great spot to savor a cocktail while watching whales through the panoramic window behind the bar.
For dinner, head to the Little River Inn’s restaurant for a delicious dinner. I had Shrimp and Grits while my boyfriend had the Thai Style Rock Cod. The Thai Style Rock Cod was an exciting dish that saw a whole fish served on a bed of coconut curry and vegetables. For dessert we had the restaurant’s classic delicious berry cobbler topped with vanilla ice cream.
The Little River Inn offers a comfortable atmosphere, luxe amenities, and delicious local cuisine that’s a draw for all generations.