Nestled near Bolinas Beach, this charming redwood cottage offers a serene retreat with antique furnishings, arched windows, and wooden timbers. Relax in the upstairs loft study studio or unwind on the enclosed porch room with Japanese hot tub nearby. With modern amenities like high-speed WiFi and cozy bedding.
Reviews
9.49.4 out of 10
Exceptional
Entire home
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 293 sq m
Popular amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free Wi-Fi
Add dates for prices
About this property
The Bolinas Artist Cottage-Just a Minit! near the Sea
Escape to a real-life fairytale in our handmade Hobbit House! This cozy redwood cottage is perfect for a romantic getaway for 2, but can fit more. Features a Japanese hot tub, wood stove, and a unique tree branch staircase. Nestled in a nature reserve, yet just 200 steps from Bolinas Beach and town. A truly magical retreat on the California coast.
Step into a real-life fairytale at our miniature Hobbit House, a charming and cozy redwood cottage perfect for a romantic getaway or an artistic retreat. Handmade and artful, the cottage is filled with rustic character, from the old-fashioned arched windows to the unique tree branch staircase that leads to the airy loft. Downstairs, you'll find a cozy bedroom featuring a new, all-natural Birch latex queen mattress for sweet dreams. The main floor also includes a lounge area, a bathroom with a vintage clawfoot tub and a warm water bidet, and a hand-tiled, old-fashioned kitchen. On cool evenings, gather around the wood stove for cozy conversations. The unique staircase, like something from a storybook, ascends to an expansive loft space. With views of the peaceful town and the Bolinas Ridge, it feels like being in a treehouse. This versatile area includes a study/studio space and additional sleeping areas with a queen futon and a single futon. Guest Access You will have private access to the entire house and its unique amenities. This includes the outdoor Japanese-style soaking hot tub, perfectly situated to enjoy the natural surroundings. Relax in the garden, nestled at the base of a 40-acre quail reserve, offering privacy and the feeling of being in a forest. The Neighborhood Our cottage is perfectly located just 200 steps from Bolinas Beach and the main town. Nestled between three National Wildlife parks—Mount Tamalpais State Park, Muir Woods, and Point Reyes National Seashore—it's an ideal base for hiking and exploring the stunning California coast. Enjoy the best of both worlds, with the natural splendor of coastal parks and the cosmopolitan charms of San Francisco just an hour away. You can surf in the morning, shop for organic food at the Bolinas Peoples Store, and dine at a world-class restaurant in Point Reyes for lunch. The heart of wine country is just an hour and fifteen minutes away. Getting Around The beach and the charming town of Bolinas are just a two-minute walk from your doorstep. For a night out, the famous Sweet Water Music Hall in Mill Valley is a 30-minute drive. Or, simply stay in, barbecue in the garden, and relax in the peace and quiet of your private retreat. Modern Conveniences Despite its rustic charm, the cottage is equipped with modern conveniences for a comfortable stay: * High-speed wireless internet (98mbps) * Two flat-screen TVs with Apple TV * Stereo, games, and cards * Fully equipped kitchen: antique gas range, electric oven, microwave, coffee maker, blender, waffle iron, cooking utensils, and spices. * We provide fresh organic coffee and cream. * Washer and dryer * Cozy bedding, feather pillows, and electric blankets * Antique French telephones with unlimited nationwide calls House Rules * The base rate is for 2 guests. Additional guests, including children, must be included in the reservation for accurate pricing. Please contact us if you plan to bring your small family. * Pets are welcome! A pet fee of $30 per stay applies. * Please keep doors closed and food stored securely. As we are nestled in a nature reserve, open doors can invite visits from local wildlife. Important Information * EV Charger: We have a fast charger for electric vehicles. Please let us know in advance if you need to use it. A fee may apply for significant usage. * Summer Bookings: During July and until mid-August, we prioritize rentals of 3 days or longer. Shorter stays may be accepted closer to the date. * Staircase: Please be aware that the unique, handmade tree branch staircase to the loft is steep and may not be suitable for all guests, especially those with mobility challenges but there is an outside staircase with electric chair lift.
Property amenities
Beach
Beach nearby
Beach loungers
Beach towels
Pool/Spa
Hot tub
Internet
Available in the cottage: Free WiFi
Parking and transport
Electric car charging station on site
Car recommended
Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available
Kitchen
Blender
Coffee grinder
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dishwasher
Electric kettle
Hob
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Spices
Toaster
Dining
Dining table
Bedrooms
2 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided
Sofa bed
Bathroom
1 bathroom
Bathtub or shower
Hair dryer
Shampoo
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided
Living spaces
Dining table
Living room
Wood stove
Entertainment
Books
DVD player
Games
Music library
Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
Stereo
Video library
Outdoor areas
Balcony
Barbecue grill
Fenced yard
Garden
Outdoor furniture
Laundry
Laundry facilities
Washing machine
Work spaces
Desk
Desk chair
Office
Comfort
Air conditioning
Heating
Pets
Pet friendly
Up to 23 kg per pet
Suitability/Accessibility
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
2 accessible parking spaces
In-room accessibility
No lift (single-level property)
Wheelchair-accessible parking
Wheelchair-accessible van parking
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Housekeeping on request
Iron/ironing board
Meal delivery service
Phone
Location highlights
In a rural location
In a village
In the city centre
Near the bay
Near the sea
Things to do
Tennis
Birdwatching nearby
Ecotours nearby
Fishing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Jet skiing nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Parasailing nearby
Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
Swimming nearby
Whale watching nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Windsurfing nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
An adult aged 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items and remove leftover food and drinks
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Rules
7 night maximum stay
Need to see proof of vaccination card or proof of test 36 hours before checkin
Pets
Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
1 total (up to 23 kg per pet)
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property on the number on the booking confirmation
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
We should mention
A car is recommended for transport to and from this property
Frequently asked questions
Is The Bolinas Artist Cottage-Just a Minit! near the Sea pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows pets (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much is parking at The Bolinas Artist Cottage-Just a Minit! near the Sea?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at The Bolinas Artist Cottage-Just a Minit! near the Sea?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at The Bolinas Artist Cottage-Just a Minit! near the Sea?
Checkout is at 12:00 PM.
Where is The Bolinas Artist Cottage-Just a Minit! near the Sea located?
This family-friendly Bolinas cottage is located by the sea, within a 10-minute walk of Bolinas Lagoon Preserve, Bolinas Beach and Bolinas Museum. Adubon Canyon Ranch and Martin Griffin Preserve are also within 6 miles (10 km).
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Reviews
Reviews
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
We absolutely loved staying at Bolinas Cottage. It’s a magical handmade feeling home that is very cozy, and has everything you need. The location is wonderful. We were able to walk to the beach, walk to dinner, and explore the town easily. It’s also a quick drive to Stinson Beach. I highly recommend this home.
This property is lovely and charming. Art everywhere, a beautiful handmade feel, but also as comfortable as any 5 star hotel. Highly recommended for those who want a true Bolinas experience.
Nancy R.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified
4/10 Poor
Debra T.
8 Dec 2025
The cottage was not as pictured. Every inch was spectacularly cluttered with small and large items making it extremely difficult for anyone to move around comfortably. There were blankets and other throws on the couch that were unpleasantly smelling of what seemed like spoiled milk. The electrical a were dangerous with many cords plugged into hanging extensions. While it was helpful to have instructions, the walls were also cluttered with signs. Some of the artwork was lovely but again, spectacularly cluttered- literally in every available space. The cabin was also quite damp and musty. I have stayed in many places, and this one stands out as one of the strangest and least comfortable, which is truly a shame, as the location (Bolinas) is lovely and a favorite for weekends away
We were very much looking forward to our stay. The "hobbit" house (self proclaimed) was a perfect get away from the city. The house was clean and cozy.
What we weren't expecting was 1) issues with the propane heater that caused us to question whether we were dealing with some type of gas leak (my partner and I both woke up with extreme migraines and the dog vomited out of the blue) and 2) a lack of outlets but a concerning number of extension cords leading us to be worried of a safety hazard.
To be fair, we did not contact the owners before we left, but we did email them as we were leaving, about 16 hours after we got there.
I am sure that some people wouldn't mind the issues we found as problems, but it is important for renters to have all of the information.
Unique house in fantastic location. Required some practice to move around in, and a little physical flexibility, so maybe not ideal for those very advanced in years. Also the kitchen didn't have a lot of clear counter space, which made it a little hard to cook, for those interested in that. But all in all, a one-of-a-kind house that took as back in time and was the perfect little cottage for a relaxed long weekend in Bolinas.
Lots to see in the house. A very interesting place. Some spaces a little tight for us (both over 6ft tall).
Thomas N.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified
10/10 Excellent
nancy n.
6 Apr 2018
Great location
Cool house with many interesting things to look at. Comfortable bed! Woodstove kept us warm. Stairs fine for us but outside stairs may be better for some. Overall, really cool spot!
nancy n.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2018
Archival
8/10 Good
ellen h.
15 Dec 2011
Charming and fun house
Sweet house, good vibes, easy walk to town and ocean, and clean. But can be quite cold so bring warm clothes to layer, starting with a silk teeshirt, and you'll be fine. Also, kindling for the fire is a necessity!
Really unique and cozy stay! Loved how fun the layout of this cottage was and the location right in town and so close to the beach. Wasn’t able to get the outdoor soaking tub to get hot water on my last night, but the indoor tub was just as nice surrounded by all those plants! Be cognizant that if you’re a party or 2 + there are water restrictions, but I’d say for 1-2 people it would be perfect. Would definitely be happy to come back again :)
Alyssa R.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
Verified
10/10 Excellent
gerard d.
8 Dec 2018
a magical experience
We had a wonderful stay in this magical and inspiring cottage. so many beautiful details, objets, art pieces to enjoy and appreciate!
Very comfortable bed, well equipped kitchen where we cooked our meals, wonderful fireplace. Lovely walks in Bolinas and the beach, beautiful drives in the surrounding area.
Sha-Sha was most helpful whenever we had questions.
A very special adventure!
gerard d.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2018
Archival
10/10 Excellent
paulina b.
19 June 2013
Great little cabin
We had a great time staying here! This place has a very eclectic decor and style. Loved the soaking tub out back and all of the skylights. I stayed here with my two small kids and they liked it here alot, we just had to watch them with the stairs/sleeping loft... The cabin is eccentric and and cobbled together in a unique way- I loved all the different textiles and sculptures. The bed in the bedroom downstairs is super comfortable too. We got a lot out of a short 2 day vacation!
A piece of history and a great location. VERY quirky and not for those who need room to stretch out or a serene, spare setting. If you’re prepared to enter into a Bolinas mindset and have a bit of an adventure, you’ll enjoy it, but it’s not your average VRBO. The owners do a lovely job of providing all the comforts of home and then some, with helpful pointers and little signs everywhere guiding you through the world that they’ve created.
As advertised, this is a sweet little hobbit house, just a very short walk to the beach and to the center of town. It was a terrific base for hikes on Tam, strolls on the mesa, and lots of beach trips. We were thrilled to be able to bring our well-behaved dog with us. (And Sha Sha makes it easy, with plenty of dog towels on hand.) While it was perfect when the weather was good, the place felt pretty small for us with the dog when it rained all day. If you are bringing a pup, I recommend going when it is dry -- you will love it.
Of course the location is perfect, the hosts gracious and welcoming and the fairytale magic is unique. Tiny and cozy, living in the dollhouse of our dream my sister and I enjoyed the unexpected luxury (heated toilet seat!) modern convenience automatic lights, plants and flowers…and BOlinas of course. My sister and I are small old ladies yet we used the outside stairs which are convenient. It’s like living on a boat.