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Beautifully Updated Historical Cottage Retreat with Garage!

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A bedroom with a large bed, a nightstand with a lamp, a window with a view, and a small table with a plant. - Beautifully Updated Historical Cottage Retreat with Garage! (Newport Beach)
An aerial view of a coastal town with a marina, residential buildings, and a bridge connecting the areas. - Beautifully Updated Historical Cottage Retreat with Garage! (Newport Beach)
A residential street with a beige house featuring blue shutters, a tree, and parked cars. - Beautifully Updated Historical Cottage Retreat with Garage! (Newport Beach)
Private kitchen - Beautifully Updated Historical Cottage Retreat with Garage! (Newport Beach)
A living room with a white sofa, striped cushions, a red throw, a wooden coffee table, and a red chair. - Beautifully Updated Historical Cottage Retreat with Garage! (Newport Beach)
Consider a stay at Beautifully Updated Historical Cottage Retreat with Garage! and take advantage of golfing on-site, a garden and a playground. Active travellers can enjoy kayaking, cycling and boating at this cottage. Free in-room WiFi, with a speed of 100+ Mbps (good for 1–2 people or up to 6 devices), and laundry facilities are available to all guests.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available

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About this property

Beautifully Updated Historical Cottage Retreat with Garage!

  • Welcome to one of the most artistically rendered homes on Balboa Island—The Cottage Retreat. This upscale, private cottage is separate from the main house and offers its own exclusive entrance, ensuring a serene and intimate stay. Nestled in one of the best locations on the island, this charming retreat comes with a coveted private garage, a rare and essential feature on Balboa Island where parking can be a challenge.

    The Cottage Retreat is the perfect alternative to standard hotels, offering a unique and authentic Balboa Island experience. Ideal for an executive, single traveler, or couple, this cozy getaway comfortably accommodates one to two guests. Immerse yourself in the quaint, historical charm of Balboa Island, just two blocks from the vibrant main street, where you'll find an array of local shops, restaurants, and the iconic Balboa Ice Cream Bars.

    Enjoy the convenience of having the bay just steps away, or take a short, scenic ride on the famous Balboa Island ferry to explore the stunning Southern California beaches. This property provides everything you need for a memorable stay, including a stocked gourmet kitchen, high-speed internet, and a sun-drenched balcony. The large outdoor patio, complete with a BBQ, offers the perfect space for relaxing and dining al fresco.

    The Cottage Retreat is designed with your comfort in mind. It features high-speed wireless internet, a smart TV with cable, and office essentials like a copier and scanner. The cottage boasts new Cape Cod-style windows that invite the cool island breeze, a charming blue Dutch door, and the finest linens. Additional amenities include a private washer and dryer, a ceiling fan, and a well-equipped kitchen perfect for any culinary enthusiast.

    Located just 6 miles from John Wayne Airport and close to Irvine's business district, The Cottage Retreat combines convenience with the allure of island living. Whether you're here for a few days or an extended stay, you'll appreciate the charm, comfort, and unbeatable location of this delightful cottage in Newport Beach.

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About the area

Located in Balboa Island, a neighbourhood in Newport Beach, this cottage is near theme parks. Fashion Island and Irvine Spectrum Center are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Crystal Cove State Park and Crystal Cove State Park. Orange County Fair and Events Center and Segerstrom Center for the Arts are not to be missed. Jet skiing and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling and ecotours nearby. Visit our Newport Beach travel guide
View more Cottages in Newport Beach
Map
Newport Beach, CA

What's nearby

  • A beach with clear blue water, palm trees, and houses along the shore.
    Balboa Peninsula Beaches
    15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • A wooden pier structure extending into a turquoise sea.
    Balboa Pier
    17 min walk - 1.4 km
  • A marina with boats docked along the shore, a prominent building with a dome, and palm trees lining the background.
    Balboa Beach
    17 min walk - 1.4 km
  • A marina with several yachts docked and a cityscape with tall buildings in the background.
    Fashion Island
    4 min drive - 2.3 km
  • Balboa Fun Zone
    13 min walk - 1.2 km

Getting around

  • Laguna Niguel Station
    20 min drive
  • Orange County, CA (SNA-John Wayne)
    21 min drive

Restaurants

  • Harborside Restaurant & Grand
    5 min drive
  • Todos Santos | Kitchen De Mexico
    10 min walk
  • Cruisers Pizza Bar Grill
    5 min drive
  • Balboa Saloon
    5 min drive
  • Dad's Original Frozen Banana
    3 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Beautifully Updated Historical Cottage Retreat with Garage! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Beautifully Updated Historical Cottage Retreat with Garage! ?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Beautifully Updated Historical Cottage Retreat with Garage! ?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Beautifully Updated Historical Cottage Retreat with Garage! ?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Beautifully Updated Historical Cottage Retreat with Garage! located?

Located in Balboa Island, this cottage is within 1 mile (2 km) of Balboa Fun Zone, Balboa Pavilion and Balboa Pier. Balboa Peninsula Beaches and Balboa Beach are also within 1 mile (2 km).

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Reviews

Beautifully Updated Historical Cottage Retreat with Garage! Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

10

Cleanliness

9.8

Location

9.6

Property conditions & facilities
Rating 10 - Excellent. 181 out of 200 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 15 out of 200 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 200 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 200 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 200 reviews

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Balboa Island Beauty

Very clean, well located property. We'll definitely stay there again!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Another great stay

Our second time at the Balboa cottage and it was perfect again! Just the right size for my husband and I. A great little retreat to come back to each day while visiting family in the area.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

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

Great location

Great location. Great for walking, shopping, eating and dining. Very nice little cottage.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great Stay!

My wife and I have stayed her several times over the past seven years and the Historical Cottage Retreat never disappoints. Fantastic location and really nicely decorated unit, garage parking is the icing on the cake!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Balboa Island

Nice clean property.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Our Third Stay

This was our third time staying at the cottage to visit family who lives nearby. The location is convenient and the garage is a game changer when staying on the island.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Absolutely Charming’

This location was so perfect. And the cottage was everything we had hoped so lovely.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Cozy and perfect for two people

My wife and I had a great time at the beach cottage! The space was cozy and perfect for two people, and the location near the beach made the stay even more special. The host was incredibly kind and made sure our stay was comfortable from beginning to end. We highly recommend staying here 100%, and we’d love to come back!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Cozy, bright upstairs spot on Balboa Island

Cozy, bright, clean space ideally located close to Marine Avenue and the restaurants and shops. Very quiet upstairs location. Small but has all the necessities for a couple. Check in with lockbox code very easy. Would definitely book again.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Just right

Clean and comfortable
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Charming Cottage

We had the best time staying here!!! First off, this is, hands down, the cleanest VRBO we have ever experienced. Completely spotless. The cottage is charming, perfectly located on the island, and having a garage is a major bonus. Plus, communication with the owner was top notch. We can’t wait to stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Cozy Spot

The cozy apartment met our needs. Top of the line home decor. Could use a more sturdy couch. The ned was comfortable.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

We will be back

The perfect location. Very good overall standards. We will definitely come back
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Comfy retreat

We greatly enjoyed our time at this property. It was exactly as presented in VRBO.probably the best well kep CRBO we have ever had. A great location. We really appreciated having a garage on Balboa. We had an issue with the oven the first evening and the owner responded very quickly and graciously and helped resolve it for us. We would happily stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Best time on Balboa Island!!

Cute cottage. Nicely appointed. It was the right price with great location. The ONLY downside was it was a bit noisy at night on the weekend with the windows open. Comfy sheets and bed. Fabulous Things to Do List and we did most of the activities since everything was walkable. Highly recommend!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

I just wish I never had to leave

This spot is perfect. I think this is my 4th or 5th time spending long weekends at this spot and I love it everytime. Basillic is a block away and the best Swiss restaurent outside of Zurich. I sleep better here than anywhere else in the world. The parking is a major bonus and always encourages me to walk. The roses were in bloom all over the Big and Little Islands. I look forward to my next visit!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Cozy place situated over a garage with steps leading up to the cottage. Cute design and decor. Close to restaurants and a great walking area in an upscale neighborhood with plenty of boating. The place airs out nicely on warm summer days. Full kitchen for cooking if you so desire. Patio, BBQ and washer/dryer also there. Some street noise, but bearable.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Perfect Stay at Cottage Retreat

Our stay at this location was perfect, This was obviously recently renovated. Everything shined. The size was great for a couple. The kitchen was equipped with everything you need, even coffee. The bed and pillows were comfortable. The towels and face clothes were soft. The location to everything on Balboa Island couldn't have been better. Detailed instructions were provided ahead of time to cover everything. The garage was a huge plus since on street parking is limited. This was our first experience with VRBO and we loved it.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Cute Cottage

The location is great and the space is perfect for 1-2 people. It’s a small, fully furnished apartment over the garage, sharing an outdoor patio with the main house. There is no air conditioning, so if the house is closed up in the summer months it can get quite hot, but once you open up the windows and the adorable Dutch door, a nice sea breeze keeps it very comfortable. We had a few issues with the stove and electric water kettle and the owner took care of both of those things right away.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

A little slice of heaven

Where to start…the apartment unit was exactly as expected. It is very clean and had everything we needed for the week. The unit is extremely charming and maintains a wonderful vintage feel. The queen bed was comfortable. There is wonderful light coming in from all directions. The location is fantastic…only 2 short blocks from the Marine Ave. shops and restaurants. Balboa Island is very close to SNA so you might notice jets taking off starting at 7AM…part of the charm. Also, working people start their day around this time so you might also hear vehicles on Balboa Ave. Otherwise, it’s very quiet overnight. We are so happy to have discovered this little gem and hope to come back soon!
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Perfect Little Spot

The cottage was the perfect little spot for a solo trip to SoCal! I was in town visiting friends, and really appreciated the cottage as a chill spot to come back to at the end of the day. The garage was wonderful to have, BUT just be aware that it's a typical island garage and if you have a car much bigger than mine (a newer model rav4) it probably will not fit and you will have to find street parking. My car juuuust barely fit. The unit itself was just what I needed as one person, but it'd be very tight for any more than a couple. Quiet, peaceful, easy access, and close to restaurants/nice evening walking spots. Definitely give this place a look if you're in the area!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very cozy cottage. The walking distance to the downtown area was a definite plus. Having a garage is a necessity because parking on the Island is scarce. Definitely would stay again when in the area.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great time. Location is wonderful and the unit is pretty much as listed and was clean and tidy. The garage parking seems like a must have, so that was helpful too. Bedroom, bathroom and garage are all a little tight, but we expected that for Balboa Island. If we make it back someday, we would come back here.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Parking was perfect and super convenient. the stay was peaceful and absolutely perfect. I would do it again - exactly the same.chinese on the island was delicious too...I just LOVE Balboa.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This garage apartment on Balboa Island, is a historic unit, recently updated and very cute. The pictures in the listing are accurate and it is decorated in a fun, eclectic, nautical decor. It is comfortable and a good location, a quick 2 block walk to shops and restaurants and just down the street from the beach. Garage parking was a huge plus! I highly recommend this apartment and would stay there again!! The only down side was that the 2 garage apartments across the alley were both under construction and noisy, but there is always construction on the Island and it's the luck of the draw if you are able to be away from it.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026