Entire home·Private host

The Cottage on Balboa Island

Photo gallery for The Cottage on Balboa Island

Room - The Cottage on Balboa Island (Newport Beach)
Living area - The Cottage on Balboa Island (Newport Beach)
Dining - The Cottage on Balboa Island (Newport Beach)
Marina - The Cottage on Balboa Island (Newport Beach)
View of Corona del Mar state beach, which is five minutes away by car - The Cottage on Balboa Island (Newport Beach)
The Cottage on Balboa Island provides laundry facilities and more. Stay connected with in-room WiFi.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Fireplace

Add dates for prices

About this property

The Cottage on Balboa Island

  • ** RESERVATION RESTRICTIONS: We are currently taking reservations through January 2026. We do not book stays of less than one week more than three weeks in advance. We will consider stays of just three or four nights if we are within 14 days from start date. 7-nite minimum stay over Christmas, boat parage and New Year. **

    This beautiful four bedroom, two bath home is located on Balboa Island in Newport Beach - one of Orange County's most popular destination spots. Just five homes in from the boardwalk and Newport Harbour, "The Cottage" enjoys one of the best locations around - the open ocean is about 15 minutes away by foot and ferry; the Island's many shops, bakeries, and restaurants are just down the street; and Fashion Island, one of the country's premiere shopping centers, is five minutes away by car.

    "The Cottage" is approx. 1,600 square feet and is beautifully decorated in a California beach motif. It is clean and well maintained. It is an original home but with a number of upgrades, including: double-pane windows and remodeled bathrooms. The kitchen is original with tile worktops. There is a view of the water from one of the upstairs bedrooms.

    The bottom level consists of an open den and dining area with a table that can seat six to eight; a small bedroom with a twin bed; a bathroom (shower, vanity and toilet); and a full kitchen (gas range, dishwasher, refrigerator, small appliances). The second level consists of three bedrooms and one full bath (remodeled with new tub and tile, vanity and toilet). The entire house is free of carpet (high-end vinyl plank floors upstairs; hardwood downstairs). There is also a sink in the master bedroom. The bed configuration upstairs is one full, one queen, and one king bed.

    A fabulous brick front patio is the perfect spot for outdoor dining and relaxing. There is a patio sofa and one comfort chair plus a patio table with four comfortable chairs. There is also a rear patio with lovely plants, a barbecue, patio sofa and two chairs. Please note: the apartment above garage is accessed by tenant via rear patio so the rear patio is not for the exclusive use of front house guests. Washing machine and dryer in garage is shared with apartment tenant.

    The boardwalk that encircles the island is one of the most scenic spots around. During the summer, you can often see sailboat regattas in the harbour, and pelicans and sea lions. This boardwalk is off-limits to skateboarders and bicyclists so it's the perfect place to enjoy peaceful walks.

    The home's amenities include a side-by-side washing machine and dryer (in garage and shared with apartment), one space in a two-car garage); a 50' 1080 HD flat-screen TV in the den; a TV in the master bedroom; cable TV, Blue Ray DVD, and wireless Internet service. The fully-appointed kitchen includes a gas range, dishwasher, microwave, and most all small appliances.

    The one-bedroom, one bath apartment located above garage is also available for rent (VRBO ID# 4209793) This apartment sleeps three (one queen bed, one twin bed).

    During the summer months, we have a one-week minimum stay requirement and the home rents on a Saturday-to-Saturday basis only, with check-in at 3:00 pm and check-out at 10:00 am.

    During the winter months, landlord pays the first $100 in gas and $100 in electric costs; guests pay all costs above $100 on each utility, prorated to their stay.

    Please Note: Once you've booked, we will ask for the names of all adults who will be staying at the property along with a copy of their driving licences. On stays over 30 days, reserve the right to run credit. All adults must sign our Short-term Rental Agreement.

    City of Newport Beach Short-term Lodging Permit #UTOT0562

Similar properties

About the area

Located in Balboa Island, a neighbourhood in Newport Beach, this holiday home is near theme parks and near the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Crystal Cove State Park and Crystal Cove State Park, while Orange County Fair and Events Center and Segerstrom Center for the Arts are popular area attractions. Ready for a night out? Consider The Wayfarer and Irvine Improv. With sailing, surfing/body boarding and swimming nearby, you'll find plenty of adventures in the water. Visit our Newport Beach travel guide
View more Holiday homes 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
    5 min drive - 2.7 km
  • Balboa Fun Zone
    13 min walk - 1.2 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

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

Frequently asked questions

Is The Cottage on Balboa Island pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at The Cottage on Balboa Island?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Cottage on Balboa Island?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Cottage on Balboa Island?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is The Cottage on Balboa Island located?

Located in Balboa Island, this holiday home is within 1 mile (2 km) of Balboa Fun Zone, Balboa Pavilion and Balboa Pier. Balboa Peninsula Beaches and Balboa Beach are also within 2 miles (3 km).

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Reviews

The Cottage on Balboa Island Reviews

10

Exceptional

9.6

Cleanliness

10

Location
Rating 10 - Excellent. 36 out of 39 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 39 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 39 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 39 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 39 reviews

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful cottage at a perfect location on Balboa Island. Sharon was responsive to our questions and accommodating to our request to stay past check out time. Overall, an excellent experience.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great property in a great location

My family (wife and our 3 kids) and I stayed here over the Thanksgiving holiday and the property is exactly what we were looking for. The shops and restaurants (including a small grocery store) of Balboa Island are 1 block away. And to get to the beach, we just walked 10 minutes to the ferry, which takes you across to the peninsula/beach area for $1.75. Highly recommend!
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location and cute beach town house. Loved having parking too.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Balboa Island Vacation

This is a great location if you enjoy all the activities of Balboa Island. Close to town and close to the water.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location ! Very close to market, shops, & dinning. Secure parking on Balboa Island a big plus. Classic Balboa cottage, clean & welcoming. Super enjoyable was the extra generous and well appointed front patio.Solid value ! Host was quick to respond and easy to communicate with . We will be back !!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Excellent Family weekend

Our family was looking for a house on the island that had enough room/bedrooms to accommodate our family. This cottage was perfectly located, right near the main drag, yet at end of Marine Ave that is a One Way street and residential. It was absolutely darling and perfect. Sharon was an excellent host to work with - clear communication and immediate response. We will definitely stay here again! Thank you!!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2019
Archival

10/10 Excellent

CONTINUING THE FAMILY TRADITION...

Since 1945, my family (grandparents/parents/kids/grandkids) have spent a couple weeks on Balboa Island thru out the years. WE were the grandparents this time...introducing Balboa Island and all its' wonder to OUR grandchildren. The Marine Ave. Cottage was the perfect place, (in the middle of the action) to have this happen. Balboa bars/frozen bananas every night and walks around the island, finishing up with sitting on the front porch and chatting with the people passing by...a perfect place to create great memories. The cottage was so well equipped with everything we needed, from beach belly boards to an easy place to park...we definitely will keep coming back to this spot! (Our dog loved it too!)
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
THe Cottage is in a great location for walking, bike riding, etc. Shops nearby. The home is well maintained and had all the amenities we wanted. Two patios, beach nearby, gas barbecue, washer and dryer, and a garage. We loved sitting out on the front patio and talking to the passerby's. The four bedrooms were so useful when family members came for a couple nights. Good water pressure in the two bathrooms for a shower. I would recommend a stay at The Cottage and hope to do it again next year. Thank you Sharon for the quick communication when needed.
Stayed 14 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Best weekend ever!

We rented the house to celebrate my parents 50th wedding anniversary, and it couldn't have gone any better. The house is clean, cozy, spacious and smack dab in the middle of all the action and a few houses from the sand/water. We hope to rent the house longer next time!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great beach cottage

Wonderful location for families Great front porch seating with umbrellas for shade
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Fantastic location!

My sisters and I had a great stay here- it was perfect! Clean, roomy, and a few steps from all the shops and restaurants and super close to the water as well! Sharon the host was wonderful. Highly recommend!
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Perfect Balboa Island Location

This house was so spacious and well equipped with all kitchenware needs and family board games. Convenient location to town and a short walk to the ferry. Very responsive management as well. Can’t wait to go back!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2021
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Great Location

This was a nice place to stay on Balboa Island. It has a great location on the island and good room layout. It’s not real pet friendly with all the rules and regulations such as not allowing dogs on the patios or upstairs. The BBQ was very dirty and greasy, had to buy grill mats in order to use. Otherwise, a very nice place to stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Weekend getaway

We sent our mom and four sisters here for a sister weekend. They loved it. They had a great time, the house was completely stocked with everything you need.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Perfect Location

Great weekend getaway spent with my aunt. House is very well maintained and clean. Perfect location, one block from downtown. Peak a boo views from 2nd bedroom. Excellent communication with host. I highly recommend staying at the cottage. Extra bonus....fur babies are welcome. Definitely staying again. Thank you, Sharon!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2021
Verified review

8/10 Good

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

Perfect for our family

All in all a near perfect place to host a gathering with our family. House was very charming and well stocked with amenities. Our only issue was a fan in one of the bedrooms was not stable so unusable and the patio umbrella has seen better days but overall highly recommended. The agent/owner was very considerate and helpful
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great Beach House for Family

We knew what we were getting. This is an older beach house but well kept. The location was ideal for our needs. It is a block from restaurants, coffee shop, bakery, market and shops. More importantly, it was a one minute walk to the beach (we had 2 young grandchildren with us). Sharon was very easy to work with. She responded quickly to all of our text messages. We would happily stay there again.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Beautiful charming front room. We enjoyed coffee and meals on the front deck.

Very cheerful! Excellent location. Nice sink in master bedroom and a nice private deck off of master. Ceiling fans are nice for hot days/nights.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Family tribute

The house served us well as our family came to memorialize our beloved brother who loved Balboa Island. Our host was engaging and helpful. It was a perfect house for a group. And, in this time of Covid, there were plenty of places to distance indoors and out on the two patio areas.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Wonderful family cottage

Sharon is a friendly & helpful host and we are so thankful to have stayed in this perfectly located family-friendly beach cottage. Amenities & photos are accurate. We lived in Newport Bch before and had to do some errands for our rental, so this was a convenient location for this work and for the teens to hang out safely outside, while kayaking, swimming, biking, walking physically distanced during the COVID pandemic.
Stayed 14 nights in Jun 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

This place is it!

Beautiful cottage! My family has enjoyed 2 get-aways here and excited to return again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Balboa island paradise

Very nice vacation home, close to all the fun and easy to use. Sharon great to work with. thanks Gerry & family
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Couldn't be better

Sharon , the owner, was so accommodating . The house is exactly what we expected. One block time all the shops and the harbor. Bring your bikes for the ferry ride over to the peninsula and the Pacific Ocean. Hope we can come back.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Beautiful home - Perfect Location!!!!

Loved this home! My husband and I spent out anniversary here with our best friends and could not have asked for a better home and location! Everything was perfect :) Sharon was wonderful to deal with and we had no problems whatsoever. We will definitely be staying again soon.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Beautiful Location

The location is gorgeous! So many options within walking distance on the island. The cottage is very quaint and comfortable. Having a garage for parking was a plus. Sharon was responsive and accommodating. The check in and out was very convenient. We look forward to returning.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2020