“Love ambiance of place – lots of room but still intimate & quiet” Auburn, Spring 07
Although the Grey Whale Inn started its life as the community hospital, only it’s spaciousness and wheelchair access hint at its former life. Of course you may run into a few locals who were born here. The stories of its early days are bountiful. Just don’t tell them where your room is located. They love pulling your leg – “Oh that’s where they sewed my hand back on after I almost sawed it off at the mill!”
With over 15,000 square feet, you can easily find a quiet space to kick back and relax. If romance is your thing, you’ll definitely want one of the spacious penthouse suites. With your own private sundeck overlooking the ocean or historic downtown and the distant hills it’s the perfect hideaway.
The lovely fireside lounge provides the perfect setting for a hot game of Monopoly or the latest card game from Wizards of the Coast. Around the corner gather your friends and challenge them to Foosball. There’s a whole room dedicated to it. Down the hall is the recreation room with a pool table, full size TV and a large library of DVD’s. Head the other direction and you may run into Mike Dawson, your host, emerging from his pottery studio. If you ooh and aah over the great pieces of pottery decorating the Inn, he’ll most likely give you a tour of his studio or throw a pot or two. He’s just as creative in the kitchen so you’ll not want to miss breakfast!
At the Grey Whale Inn, you can quickly feel a part of the local scene, if you want. The Inn is a haven for visiting students to the famous Krenov fine woodworking school, artists associated with the Mendocino Art Center and medical professionals visiting Mendocino Coast District Hospital. Out in the Gardens you might strike up a conversation with someone from the Noyo Food Forest. Who’s ensuring that Mike’s garden provides you with the most organic, freshest produce and herbs possible.
Mike Dawson and his parent, Dennis and Betty, bought the Inn in 2001. Though Mom and Dad have moved on to full retirement in Oregon, they still come back frequently for visits and their touch is everywhere. Dennis is an accomplished artist. Many of his paintings decorate the Inn along with works from other local artists such as Erin Dertner, who’s studio is a couple of blocks away. Betty is a fantastic baker. Guests missed her coffeecakes so much when she retired, that Mike pleaded with her to continue. She now bakes them in Oregon and sends them to Mike on a regular basis. Mike is as eclectic as the Inn. Formerly a cook at Chez Panisse in Berkeley California, he’s also an accomplished Potter, lover of the arts-- and a good brew, and a great pool player. He’ll gladly take you on.
Experience the real Mendocino personality; stay at the Grey Whale Inn
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