Sometimes, you get it just right. Agate Cove Inn outside Mendocino, California, turned out to be the absolute perfect place for a mother/daughter getaway and my only regret is that we didn’t stay longer.

When I was looking for accommodation on Highway 101 in California for Mom and me, I wanted the perfect little inn. I didn’t have to worry about children crying or asking for a swimming pool. I would finally have a travel partner who appreciated charm. I wanted a place on the ocean, an easy stop as we drove down the California coast — and Agate Cove Inn delivered.

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Location, Location, Location

While Agate Cove Inn does not offer easy walking access down to the beach (a small rural road lies between the inn and the bluff overlooking the ocean), it does serve up an impossibly gorgeous view.

The grounds of Agate Cove Inn featured fireworks of flowery color the June day we were there, making the entire place plenty pretty even without its phenomenal ocean view. However, the inn has carefully placed chairs and benches at the front of the grounds so you can sit and listen to the ocean, watch the waves, and wait for the sun to sink slowly over the horizon.

At sunset, the thoughtful staff came out and carefully arranged us for maximum sunset viewing.

It could not have been more peaceful.

If you get bored, drive into the nearby town of Mendocino, which is movie-set charming. I highly recommend exploring the shops and art galleries here. Even just walking around town looking at the historic homes can keep you busy. 

The Rooms

Agate Cove Inn is an eclectic collection of little buildings and rooms behind the main office and restaurant. Several have windows and doors that face the ocean directly (although beware if you open them, you might also see other hotel guests…I’m pretty sure those were honeymooners we spied in bed one afternoon). 

Our room didn’t have a view of the ocean, but the shabby-chic deck was surrounded by lovely gardens. A cozy fireplace wasn’t necessary the June day we were there, but I’m sure it would keep the room warm all foggy winter. 

The toiletries were lovely and the mini fridge in the closet was appreciated. Wine glasses,robes, Wi-Fi, and TV with cable capped off the amenities.

Agate Cove Inn provides everything you need to squirrel yourself away for a relaxing few days. 

The Perks

Breakfast was AH-MAZING, which is a requirement in my world for a bed and breakfast establishment. You can nibble your homemade delectables while watching the waves crash through giant picture windows.

In the main house, you can help yourself at any time to hot drinks, baked goods, books and games.

Staff will even provide you with blankets to wrap yourself in if it gets too chilly while you’re sitting outside.

Should You Bring the Kids to Agate Cove Inn?

Not my kids. But maybe your kids.

Agate Cove Inn has a calm, peaceful atmosphere. 

It seemed to be full of couples, honeymooners and retired roadtrippers, but I thought it was perfect for a girls getaway, too (if you are into this sort of thing versus the Vegas girls getaway plan, of course).

It does have rooms with two queen beds, so if I was traveling with just one or two kids who were not inclined to scream or cry, I would highly recommend Agate Cove Inn as a great place to stop for the night. 

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