Tuesday, May 28, 2013

East Brother Island


East Brother Island
Have you ever wanted to get away from it all and stay on an island? A place where nobody can get to you and you can't escape? Then East Brother Light Station is the place.
1874 Victorian Living Quarters & Lighthouse
We stayed there recently and it was absolutely amazing. Richard and Jude were incredible hosts and really made us feel at home. There’s a quick boat ride that takes you to a ladder that you climb up to reach the island. 
View of San Rafael Bridge and San Francisco from Island
San Francisco Room
Believe it or not there’s a lot to do on the small island…  after you arrive you have plenty of time to get settled into your room (ours was the San Francisco Room with a nice view of SF of course). Once you’re settled and have checked out the lighthouse grounds, your invited to the parlor for a champagne and appetizer reception while Richard explains the history of the island. Interesting. 
Dining Room
East Brother Light Station was built on a roughly 3/4 acre island in the San Pablo Straights, at the north edge of San Francisco bay. It's still a functioning lighthouse, maintained by the coast guard and a non profit historic society which runs the B&B. The house has 5 guest bedrooms and there’s a very private Walter’s Room next to the old light house boiler room. 

1930's Boiler Equipment to Generate Steam for the Fog Horn
Included in the stay is a wonderful four course dinner along with nice red and white wines served in the victorian dining room. The next morning there’s also a tasty breakfast there too. Jude prepared the meals and they were enjoyed by all.
Island Boat Dock
The lighthouse and grounds are historical and well cared for.  We were allowed to go up to the light tower at night to view the City in the distance. It felt like we were worlds away but it was only a 30 minute drive to San Francisco. Wildlife is everywhere and it’s fun to see the seals and birds in the morning.
Old Parlor Where Champagne Reception Occurs 
It can get really cold and windy on the island so it’s a good idea to dress in layers. It’s a very rewarding place to go. All in all it was a great experience that we won’t forget…
Highly recommended!

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3 comments:

  1. Sounds serene. I like the pictures!

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  2. Sounds gorgeous. We'll have to check it out next time we're in the Bay Area.

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  3. Nice pictures, and the whole adventure sounds well worth it. We would love to see a picture from the tower at night overlooking the city!

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