FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can we stay for more than one night?

Absolutely! You can book for up to four consecutive nights (Thurs-Sun).

Are gift certificates available?

You bet! Our gift certificates are popular and unique gifts. Purchase today.

Can I shower if I stay multiple nights?

Yes! The Marin room is the only room with a shower, but we can also arrange access to a shower for guests staying multiple nights in the other rooms.

Can I shower if I stay only one night?

No, and we hope you understand! Water is in extremely short supply on the Island. We rely on a rainwater catchment and cistern to meet all of our water needs.

How far in advance should I book?

If you have a special date or room in mind, you might want to plan at least a month ahead. Although we usually have an available room, it’s not uncommon for our Saturdays to be booked six months in advance. 

What about access to the island?

There is a short boat ride from shore and 4-12ft vertical ladder (depending on the height of the tide). Once on the island, the buildings all date from the 1870s and have multiple steps.

Because of this, we cannot accommodate children under 18 (see below) or guests in wheelchairs.

What’s the ladder like?

It’s like climbing out of a pool.  

Will I get seasick on the boat?

We have never had a guest have a problem with seasickness. The boat ride from the harbor is usually short and calm, but it can get bouncy with a bit of sea spray if there is a west wind. 

Where do I park? Is the parking area safe?

Our guests park at Pt. San Pablo Yacht Harbor before catching our boat ride to the island. Although the harbor looks a little worn, is a very safe place with security cameras and vigilant year-round residents.

Is the island ADA accessible?

Unfortunately not. There is no way to safely load such guests from the boat onto the dock on the island side. 

Can I bring children?

Due to safety and accommodations, children are not allowed unless the whole house is booked. Please call prior to booking the whole house to discuss accommodations.

What about pets?

Pets are not allowed.

What is the foghorn like? When does it run? Is it bothersome?

The modern foghorn is a medium-pitched electric horn that has been described as “soothing” by some guests. The horn sounds every 20 seconds from October 1 to April 1 from the southwest corner of the island (not from the fog signal building–only the antique horn is located there). We provide earplugs in all the rooms when the horn is sounding, but they are rarely opened. 

Do you have phones in the rooms? What about computers & the Internet?

There is no wired phone or Internet service on the island. Cell coverage can even be spotty. Coming to East Brother really is like going back in time! Enjoy the food, the views, the wildlife, and the company!

Do you have a hot tub?

No.

Is smoking permitted on the island?

Smoking is permitted outdoors only, and butts must be disposed of in proper receptacles.