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I have often heard it said, “Why drive all the way to Oregon or to Ft. Bragg and Mendocino when you have Shelter Cove less than an hour away?” After spending a night at the Inn of the Lost Coast, I found this statement couldn’t be more true. Inn owners Toni and Mike Caldwell welcome guests from all over the world to enjoy the magic Shelter Cove has to offer. They would like to extend that warm welcome to those of us lucky enough to live so close. There is much less traffic and fewer people in Shelter Cove than at those other destinations.

The Caldwells purchased the building, located at 205 Wave Drive, in 2001 and immediately began to remodel and upgrade the accommodations. The Inn offers 18 oceanfront suites. When you arrive you will be welcomed by the Inn’s managers in the cozy lobby. The rooms are very luxurious and are a true oasis to escape from the stresses of everyday life. The Inn is also very pet friendly and certain rooms have been designated for our four-legged members of the family. However, if you happen to be alergic don’t worry other rooms are completely pet-free.

The unobstructed views up and down the very rugged Pacific coastline are to die for. You just can’t believe there is such beauty so close to home. There is also a large deck with an outdoor hot tub where you can listen to the waves crashing against the rocks below. On those cool evenings at the Cove, enjoy the fire pit while you sit and watch the amazing sunsets.

For the ultimate treat, stay in one of the large suites with a fireplace, spa tub, and European sauna. Then, give Kim or Robin from Black Sands Spa a call at 707-986-7439 for an in-room massage and really pamper yourself. What better way to enjoy one of Southern Humboldt’s winter storms? After all that pampering, kick back and watch TV or pick out a movie from the large selection in the Inn’s lobby.

If you are planning to fly into the Cove, just give the Inn a call and they will pick you up at the airstrip. They will also provide transportation during your stay.

Also contained in the Inn’s building complex is the Fish Tank where you can satisfy your caffeine addiction or order a sandwich, salad, or other goodies. And Costa Cucina, located at the north end of the Inn, serves take-out pizza and other Italian dishes.

Shelter Cove has some of the best dining you will find on the North Coast with the Cove Restaurant south of the Inn and the Chart Room Restaurant right across the street. And who can forget the famous fish and chips at the Shelter Cove Deli for lunch? For an afternoon treat stop in at Cape Mendocino Tea for a cup of brisk tea and homemade scones.

Call the Inn of the Lost Coast at 707-986-7521 or check them out online at www.innofthelostcoast.com. And remember to ask them about local discounts. Don’t be one of those people who always says, “I live right here and I never go out to the Cove!”

photos:

1. The Inn of the Lost Coast, shown here from the back side, provides visitors with incredible views from every room. Owners Mike and Toni Caldwell welcome you to take time to restore, renew, and relax with them.

2. REDWOOD TIMES PHOTO BY SUSAN GARDNER

This amazing view north to Black Sand Beach is just one of the amenities available to guests.

3. REDWOOD TIMES PHOTO BY SUSAN GARDNER

The Fish Tank on the bottom floor of the Inn serves a variety of beverages including coffee, tea, and espresso. They also have tasty delights including bagels, sandwiches, and salads.