As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
We count ourselves lucky to live in a region of California that is both rich with history and spectacular natural beauty. There’s one town in NorCal that definitely excels in both, and you can experience it for yourself when you plan a night at one of these historic water towers. These century-old towers were put to good use when they were first built and many of them are still in operation today. However, some have been completely renovated for overnight visitors, and it makes for one seriously unique place to sleep. Treat yourself to a night in one of these towers and plan to be blown away. These things are just too charming for words!
Those who visit Mendocino are often blown away by the town's stunning coastal beauty along with its old-fashioned charm. One of the town's most enchanting features are the dozens of century-old water towers scattered throughout town, and it turns out you can even sleep in them.
Most of these iconic water towers were built near the end of the 19th century and were used to supply the community with water. Mendocino still has no central water supply so some water towers are still in operation. However, many have been converted into the most charming overnight getaways.
Approximately thirty water towers remain of the nearly 100 original towers. They stand around 30 to 60-feet tall, and many are managed as inns or B&Bs. One of the most notable can be found at the oldest resort on the Mendocino coast—the Inn at Schoolhouse Creek and Spa.
What's fascinating about the Inn at Schoolhouse Creek is that it was once turned over to the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II. The water tower that remains here was once the armory, and the lookout tower now contains a cozy hot tub instead of guns.
JD House is another excellent destination for those interested in sleeping in one of these towers. Complete with a decked out ground floor suite, the water tower has been tastefully transformed into the most lovely overnight destination.
The recent renovation perfectly blends the old with the new. The plush queen bed, gas fireplace, and freshly painted interior feels luxurious. At the same time, the charm of Old Mendocino lingers and you can't help but to fall in love with it.
Another dreamy experience awaits you at Sweetwater Inn & Spa. Boasting a remodeled 1872 water tower, you'll be completely immersed in the old-fashioned architecture and cozy atmosphere.
At the base of the tower is a beautiful spa area which is shared by the inn's other guests in between certain hours. Water tower guests will enjoy unlimited after-hours tub and sauna privileges. Just keep in mind that the tower room is reserved for adults only.
Mendocino's water towers are both a fascinating piece of history and a truly unique architectural feature of this gorgeous town. Consider spending the night at one for a night you're bound to remember!
Learn more about Inn at Schoolhouse Creek here. Address: 7051 N Hwy 1, Little River, CA 95456
Learn more about JD House here. Address: 571 Ukiah St, Mendocino, CA 95460
Learn more about Sweetwater Inn & Spa here. Address: 44840 Main St, Mendocino, CA 95460
Did you know about Mendocino’s historic water towers? Staying in one definitely seems like an exquisite experience! Check out our list of 12 Unique Places To Stay In Northern California for more one-of-a-kind lodging options in our region of the state.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.