The Inn at Mavericks

The Inn at Mavericks looks much like a large two-story house: two stories of blue and gray clapboard. There is no lobby or front desk, just an office where guests knock on the door and someone comes out to show the way to rooms. If it's after hours, the hosts will leave the key and some instructions. The casual vibe matches the surroundings: Sandy paths wind around the property, lined with pretty pink flowers, towering pines, and other vegetation that feels distinctly Northern Californian. The back of the building faces the back of a house, but on the other side is the picturesque harbor, where boats bob around in the serene water. Groups hosting events next door at the Mavericks Event Center sometimes rent the entire inn, though mosts guests are couples on romantic waterside getaways. 

The inn is located in the village of Princeton-by-the-Sea about a 12-minute drive from Half Moon Bay. It overlooks the Pacific Ocean and the tranquil Pillar Point Harbor. Next door is an events center that can be used in conjunction with the hotel. The neighborhood is residential-industrial, but it's within a five- to 10-minute walk of the beach, the harbor, and many dining spots, such as Half Moon Bay Brewing Company. Mavericks Beach is on one side of the inn -- a 20-minute walk or five-minute drive -- and the other side has restaurants, shops, kayak rentals, boats, and another beach. Surfing spots and golf courses, including Half Moon Bay Golf Links, are within about 20 minutes as well.  

The inn has just six rooms, all decorated in a homey, tasteful style: textiles in cream, beige, and brown; subtly patterned headboards; and ornate rugs atop tile floors. All rooms have private furnished wooden decks or patios overlooking the water, a major draw to this property. Other standard amenities include Keurig coffeemakers, mini-fridges, microwaves, flat-screen TVs, ironing facilities, and free Wi-Fi, along with cozy extras like robes and free snack baskets that are replenished daily. Bathrooms have granite countertops and glass vessel sinks, along with deep soaking tubs. Earplugs are provided for guests who may be bothered by the sound of the fog horn, which blows every 10 minutes or so. Binoculars in the rooms are nice for viewing water activity. Rooms on the first floor are pet-friendly, and the patios are fenced. 

The Inn at Mavericks is not for travelers looking for a lot of touristy features. Its focus is on the water and rooms that provide everything guests might need for enjoying the beautiful views. The inn does have a fire pit and seating on the waterfront, but that's about it -- other than free Wi-Fi, breakfast snack bars, and a lawn where pets can play. There is no lobby, fitness or business center, spa, or pool. But previous guests say that's part of the charm -- it's small and intimate and has all the necessities.