Howard Creek Ranch

We stayed in the Willow Room over New Years' weekend and enjoyed it tremendously. The bedroom was very cozy, and there was a small kitchen area attached that had a microwave, dishes, and the shower also in that room. The carriage house (where our room was located) is essentially a renovated barn. It has a BEAUTIFUL eclectic common area with books, movies, and a hot tub. The main house (where we did not stay, but where we ate breakfast) had the feel of a very old farm house, with original old floorboards, antique kitchen, etc. The breakfasts were served in the main house and were extremely delicious! The grounds are very pleasant, with the ocean nearby, sheep in the pasture, and nice hiking. The staff were very friendly. A lot of reviews said they found the rickety bridge between the carriage and main house charming, but I personally found it a bit scary (and I am only 24 years old). If I were elderly or handicapped, I would DEFINITELY not feel comfortable crossing it, so anyone in that situation should stay in a room in the main house. We would definitely come back again. I think the only thing to consider is that the house is old, so if you are looking for super-modern looking amenities, this may not be the place for you. It felt more like staying in a romantic cabin than it did like staying at a posh hotel. This was exactly the sort of cozy arrangement my husband and I wanted for a weekend away, but it may not be right for everyone.

We stayed here in February 2012. We stayed in the boat house. It was really fun. Rustic but quaint and cozy. Our first night our hosts brought us a basket for our breakfast the following morning and the second morning we had a full breakfast in the ranch house. The history of this place and the artistry are amazing. Several projects in the works. The beach was a few steps away and we took a hike on the mountain on the property. We had a wood burning stove that kept our little boat warm and wonderful. A nice getaway for a few days on the coast. The only drawback is food service is 30 minutes away but it is a nice drive. Our advice is to bring snack & or dinner food and enjoy getting some great R&R. Our hosts were wonderful too and enjoy sharing great stories.

My husband and I spent the first days of our honeymoon at the Howard Creek Ranch. First appearances are deceiving, and this is not the place for those who judge by them. The Ranch is a well-loved home, and under improvement. When we first saw it we were not sure what we were in for. But the staff was warm and welcoming, the room we reserved spotless and gorgeous, and the setting unsurpassed. We were looking for a space that was more remote. The location is right in the hills and about 300 yards from the beach. The food was sumptuous and served family style with other lovely, down-to-earth guests. We hope to return soon, it suited us perfectly.

I found this place by accident 15 years ago and have made an annual trip ever since. The owner's, Sonny and Sally are two of the most gracious and caring people I am honored to know. The moment you drive onto the property, the serenity wraps you like a warm soft blanket, and you know you have arrived at a very special place. You'll have to sacrifice paved parking lots, TV and constant noise, but you are going to love it! Between the lush garden, the close proximity to the ocean, the outstanding breakfasts you just can't go wrong in choosing this place to restore your soul - Jill P.

This is a secluded place in a beautiful valley near a beach...far from urbanity but lively and welcoming. Sunny and Sally are wonderful hosts...very friendly and with a ton of interests and stories. Good conversations can be had here. The breakfast was excellent, the hospitality first rate. Each room is unique and furnished with antiques. Stayed one night and would love to go back for several.

We've stayed at the inn many times and found it friendly, comfortable and relaxing. Great breakfasts!! Close to Mendocino but inn is much less pretentious and expensive than the average Mendocino inn. Ft Bragg is a real town with great shops and eats. Don't forget the No Coast Brewery.

Feeling so isolated from the rest of the world, as you stroll through the cottage garden and wander through the trails on some of the 60 acres, a feeling of tranquillity washes over you, slowing down to enjoy the sights and sounds of this restful retreat. What a wonderful place Sunny & Sally have created at Howard Creek Ranch. Thank you for sharing it with the rest of us!

If you want to get away this is the place. A rustic, eclectic, and quiet place to stay. Hosts are outstanding and the breakfast is superb!!!With the rain on the roof and surf in the background, I slept like a log!!!!

Seldom in this world today does one find a location which ingrains itself upon ones very soul. Where one can remove oneself from the chaotic modern world and return to a simpler time of peace and tranquility. The innkeepers, Sally and Sunny Grigg, have, over their 30+ years of stewardship, transformed the (c.1871) ranch through masterful craftsmanship and heartfelt restoration into realm of quixotic romanticism seldom found. Through the warm-heartedness of the innkeepers and staff; the made-from-the-heart breakfast presented gracefully elegant, one is enveloped with a sense of kith and kin. Plato called beauty a privilege of nature; Carneades, a solitary kingdom; Aristotle, that it was better than all the letters of recommendation in the world; Homer, that it was a glorious gift of nature, and Ovid, that it was a favor bestowed by the gods. Beauty is Howard Creek Ranch Inn.