In a roundup of historic B&Bs in the San Francisco Bay Area, we highlight the ABCs of six you’ll want to know about. “A” is for appealing, “B” is for breakfast and “C” is for charming. When a local getaway is called for, these time-honored inns provide bed and breakfast — and much more — in a special location beyond the city limits. These Bay Area bed and breakfast spots are as charming as they are iconic.
Featured Photo: Raford Inn
North Bay
Mountain Home Inn
Only 20 minutes from the Golden Gate Bridge but a world away. This special place rests among the redwoods 900 feet up on a Mt. Tamalpais ridge and provides one of the most spectacular views you can get from a Bay Area bed and breakfast. Here, peace and quiet meet the clouds and the sky above Mill Valley. Utterly breathtaking and exceptionally magical, more than a century ago this enviable location attracted a Swiss-German couple to build a mountainside inn. Today, 10 rustic guest rooms may have a wood-burning fireplace, a Jacuzzi, a deck, and wonderful views from above the clouds. Continental breakfast served on the sun deck is included and both lunch and a candlelit dinner are available at the inn’s restaurant. All rooms have free Wi-Fi.
TIP: Wednesdays are ‘Local’s Nights.’ Play some board games and enjoy $2 off of drafts and wine by the glass with the purchase of a small plate.
The Pelican Inn
Right down to the dart board by the tiny bar, everything about this stucco-fronted pub tucked away in Muir Beach feels authentically English (take it from this Brit). At this Bay Area bed and breakfast, its not just the food that is special. Upstairs from the restaurant that serves hearty fare and fresh produce from nearby farms, there are seven cozy guest rooms and a snug room kitted out with books, games, overstuffed chairs and a fireplace. Overnight visitors may partake in a traditional English breakfast of bacon and eggs, bangers, grilled tomatoes, and toast with marmalade. Irish oatmeal with local honey butter comes with fruit, orange juice, tea or coffee. To commune with nature, wander across the grassy lawn (ideal for croquet) down to Muir Beach or drive to nearby Muir Woods National Monument.
TIP: In honor of the British countryside-esque nature of this inn, the onsite restaurant has a menu that reflects this, so be sure to stop by and try some of their classics.
South Bay
Mill Rose Inn
Flowers, flowers everywhere, from the window boxes to the charming gazebo in the garden. A Half Moon Bay landmark since 1903, this upscale B&B is just one mile from Half Moon Bay State Beach and 4 miles from Half Moon Bay Golf Links. More Cotswolds than Silicon Valley, the property is decorated with English antiques, patterned wallpaper and coordinated chintz. Six guest rooms have features such as period fireplaces, brass beds, and claw foot bathtubs. In the best of B&B traditions, there’s a champagne breakfast served in the dining room, as well as a cheese platter with wine in the afternoon. Browse the bookshelves and settle into an Adirondack chair. Free parking and Wi-Fi.
TIP: Located near Historic Main Street, this inn is in the perfect location to explore local restaurants and shops.
The George
A one-word description of The George? Elegant. On the National Register of Historic Places, the gracious 1891 landmark has been reimagined as a luxury boutique inn with nine one-of-a-kind guest rooms. Cooked to order breakfast is prepared by the resident chef in a state-of-the art kitchen to be enjoyed in the sunny dining room beside the front parlor with fireplace. At once classic and charming, the 2021 renovation is also contemporary to provide exceptional comfort and deluxe amenities. Relax in the garden and walk to Downtown Napa in five minutes. Free Wi-Fi and parking in the rear.
TIP: Check out their formal living room, a place to sit by the fire, admire the building’s history and play some chess with the other guests.
Did we miss your favorite hotel?
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