10/10 Excellent
Robin R.
6 September 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Three Times All Charming
Robin R.
Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2023
Entire home
Balboa Island 2 Bdm / 2 Bath Vacation Home - Duck House
Photo gallery for Balboa Island 2 Bdm / 2 Bath Vacation Home - Duck House
Reviews
10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4167.2 sq m
Popular amenities
Explore the area
Newport Beach, CA
- Fashion Island3 min drive
- Balboa Pier5 min drive
- Newport Pier9 min drive
- Orange County, CA (SNA-John Wayne)11 min drive
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)
Front Bedroom
2 Single Beds
Master Bedroom
1 Queen Bed
2 bathrooms
Front Bathroom
Toilet · Shower only
Master Bathroom
Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Dining Area
About this property
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.
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.
Property manager
Craig Williams
Languages
English
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue grill
Have a question?
BetaGet instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
Similar properties
Charming Beach House Rental
Charming Beach House Rental
- Kitchen
- Washer
- Dryer
- Pet-friendly
10.0 out of 10, (3 reviews)
House Rules
Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
Families have stayed, it is not a playground
Events
No events allowed
Small gatherings must be pre-approved
Pets
No pets allowed
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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Small gatherings must be pre-approved
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Property Registration Number SLP12455
We should mention
A car is not required for transport to and from this property
About the area
Newport Beach
Located in Balboa Island, a neighbourhood in Newport Beach, this holiday home is near theme parks and near the beach. Newport Pier and Pelican Hill Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Crystal Cove State Park and Orange County Great Park. Travelling with kids? Consider Newport Harbor Nautical Museum, or check out an event or a game at Bren Events Center. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Newport Beach, CA
What's nearby
- Fashion Island - 3 min drive - 3.3 km
- Balboa Pier - 5 min drive - 1.0 km
- Corona del Mar State Beach - 6 min drive - 4.3 km
- Balboa Beach - 7 min drive - 1.0 km
- Newport Pier - 9 min drive - 7.6 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- Cabo Cantina - 5 min drive
- Sugar n Spice Original Frozen Banana - 12 min walk
- Newport Landing Restaurant - 20 min walk
- Harborside Restaurant & Grand Ballroom - 4 min drive
- Dad's Donut & Bakery Shop - 11 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window10/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Check-in
10/10
Communication
10/10
Location
10/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Deborah R.
9 August 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Second Stay at Duck House
Deborah R.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
Sandy G.
18 April 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our second stay!
Sandy G.
Stayed 10 nights in Apr 2023
10/10 Excellent
Cheryl B., Mesa, AZ
21 March 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Balboa Island Re-Visit
Cheryl B.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2023
10/10 Excellent
Linda E.
7 January 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our Duck House!
Linda E.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022
10/10 Excellent
Tom G.
28 August 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect for Us
Tom G.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
Linda E.
17 July 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our Second Home
Linda E.
Stayed 10 nights in Jul 2022
10/10 Excellent
Sandy G.
13 April 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We'll be back!
Sandy G.
Stayed 9 nights in Apr 2022
10/10 Excellent
Cheryl B., Mesa, AZ
11 March 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful
Cheryl B.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2022
10/10 Excellent
Diane H.
21 June 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Location
Diane H.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021
10/10 Excellent
james p.
1 June 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
wonderful getawaay
james p.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2021
10/10 Excellent
Charlotte C.
1 May 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Return to Duck Cottage
Charlotte C.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2021
10/10 Excellent
Nora T.
28 September 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A place with history
Nora T.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2020
10/10 Excellent
Tracy J., Phoenix
4 August 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A gem of a home!
Tracy J.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020
10/10 Excellent
Karen P.
18 June 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect biking getaway
Karen P.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020
10/10 Excellent
Park City Pacific LLC W., Newport Beach, CA
5 December 2019
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect!
Park City Pacific LLC W.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2019
10/10 Excellent
Nora T.
4 October 2019
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Delightful
Nora T.
8/10 Good
Ric M.
24 September 2019
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Duck House just ducky except for the three bears beds
Ric M.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2019
10/10 Excellent
michelle e.
20 May 2019
The Duck House
michelle e.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2019
10/10 Excellent
Judy B.
18 August 2018
Everything was great, the home was well equipped with towels, kitchen utensils and even beach toys!
Judy B.
Stayed 28 nights in Jul 2018
8/10 Good
Claire S.
25 March 2018
Cozy cottage in a great location!
Claire S.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2018
10/10 Excellent
Kim M.
14 January 2018
The Duck House was a perfect spot for a long weekend. Comfortable, convenient and clean.
Kim M.
About the host
Hosted by Craig Williams
Born and raised (2nd generation) in Los Angeles. Spent every summer on Balboa Island from age 3 to 18. I live 1/2 a block down the street from the Duck House.
I work in technology. Currently I am an technical instructor for Splunk (software), teaching customers how to use Splunk. When I am not working or fixing up Duck House, I am a volunteer coach at Corona del Mar high school. I coach the girls cross country team.
My weaknesses are: Dark Chocolate, Red Wine and Sushi
As a host, hosting you in my home, I want your stay on Balboa Island to be special.
I work in technology. Currently I am an technical instructor for Splunk (software), teaching customers how to use Splunk. When I am not working or fixing up Duck House, I am a volunteer coach at Corona del Mar high school. I coach the girls cross country team.
My weaknesses are: Dark Chocolate, Red Wine and Sushi
As a host, hosting you in my home, I want your stay on Balboa Island to be special.
Why they chose this property
Inside Duck House, each bedroom has its own full bathroom. The kitchen is fully stocked with most everything one would want/need in their kitchen. There is an interior patio and the front porch for your outside relaxing. Personally, I am very content to sit at the dining table working away while gazing out the large picture window. Many homes have dutch doors and the top half is open from sunrise until bed time.
Parking is on the street. Street sweeping on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Information will be provided regarding local restaurants, rental opportunities, sights, and more (hopefully some discounts as well). Duck House Balboa site is available for additional details, if you combine those three above words and add the period and com at the end, your browser will take you there.
Guest access
Private patio off the kitchen, front patio to watch all the neighbors, fully stocked kitchen to meet all your cooking desires, and more. This is my home (when nobody is staying in it) so it is all there - if it isn't there, let me know and perhaps it can be - sorry no hot tub. This is not a rental property. This is my home that I am inviting you to visit and stay and relax on Balboa time.
Interaction with guests
Pearl Avenue is a tight knit community of home owners and renters. Whether your interaction is with me or with another designated host (neighbor), you will be treated as a local. Unless I am traveling for business, I will be your host and you determine the amount of contact. When I am not living in the Duck House (probably because you are staying there), I live just down the street. I will need to come by to water plants and put the garbage cans out for pickup.
Parking is on the street. Street sweeping on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Information will be provided regarding local restaurants, rental opportunities, sights, and more (hopefully some discounts as well). Duck House Balboa site is available for additional details, if you combine those three above words and add the period and com at the end, your browser will take you there.
Guest access
Private patio off the kitchen, front patio to watch all the neighbors, fully stocked kitchen to meet all your cooking desires, and more. This is my home (when nobody is staying in it) so it is all there - if it isn't there, let me know and perhaps it can be - sorry no hot tub. This is not a rental property. This is my home that I am inviting you to visit and stay and relax on Balboa time.
Interaction with guests
Pearl Avenue is a tight knit community of home owners and renters. Whether your interaction is with me or with another designated host (neighbor), you will be treated as a local. Unless I am traveling for business, I will be your host and you determine the amount of contact. When I am not living in the Duck House (probably because you are staying there), I live just down the street. I will need to come by to water plants and put the garbage cans out for pickup.
What makes this property unique
Balboa Island is a "way" of living - this home was owned by Peggy M. a true matriarch of Balboa Island. She founded the Balboa Island Museum and was extremely active in the community - EVERYBODY knew Peggy. When she moved and her family decided to sell "Duck Inn" as it was known, I was given the chance to purchase (scary). My intention was to preserve and make Duck House (my name) available to others to experience Balboa Island as I had, spending 15 summers on the island. So, yes, I own a home that I don't live in, on Balboa Island. You'll get the rest of the story when I meet you.
All the neighbors were fearful that someone would buy the Duck House and tear it down to build a Beach Mansion.
All the neighbors were fearful that someone would buy the Duck House and tear it down to build a Beach Mansion.
Languages:
English
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback