Our Story
Originally called “Hill House,” the property was built in 1953 as part of the Fort Ross Lodge, still located across Highway 1. By 2019 the property was no longer in use and the house was sold to new owners in 2020. The property underwent nearly 2 years of renovations and updates geared towards short-term rentals until being purchased by us, the current owners, in 2022. We fell in love with the lodge at first site, recognizing its unique combination of mature redwood forests, stunning ocean views, and expansive meadow.
We didn’t buy the lodge to start a business. We bought it to escape. To trade traffic and screens for sunsets and ocean air. To raise our kids among Redwoods and goats. To rediscover what “together time” really means.
Over the years our small project became something much larger. A haven where couples, extended families and friends can pause, celebrate, and share life’s biggest moments against some of the most breathtaking backdrops in California.
We hope you enjoy the magic of Driftwood Lodge as much as we do.
Katie & Orrin (owners)
Meet our staff!
During your stay you will likely meet our friendly and wonderful team members who help keep the lodge and property clean, warm in winter, bug-free in summer, and running smoothly all year long.
Ernie
Ernie is our property and grounds manager, living on-site with his wife Colleen. Ernie is a “jack of all trades” as he manages the mini-farm animals, keeping the grounds clean and mowed, changes the hot-tub water, performs repairs, and improves/updates the property daily. Ernie is very friendly and would love to introduce you to our animals and set up a time to feed and pet them. Ernie is also a local artist, creating beautiful creations from driftwood, raw milled wood, and other local materials.
Cherry
Cherry is our cleaner and turns over the property between guests. Her attention to detail and dedication to the property will be immediately noticed. She ensures that all rooms are clean prior to each reservation, and will show up promptly at check-out to begin the turnover process again. Don’t be shy, feel free to say hi!
Lindsay
Lindsay is our Property and Wedding/Event manager. She has 13+ years experience working in events and hospitality at Marriott followed by 4+ years running a wedding venue and vacation rental in Lake Tahoe. She offers full service wedding planning, day-of coordination, and can help answer any questions as you plan for your visit and event.
Dan’Yell
Dan’Yell is our local “everything gal” and you may meet her for a tour, extra wedding help, or in the background keeping our property in top shape! She joins the Driftwood Lodge team with 10+ years of hospitality experience in Napa Valley and a creative background in photography. She brings warmth and attention to detail into every interaction and is always happy to help make your experience truly special.