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The Bolinas Artist Cottage-Just a Minit! near the Sea

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Down stairs livingroom
upstairs with couch before it turns into bed
View as you approach house park out front
upstairs porchroom also acts as an inspiring writing station or office
upstairs bright porchrom with single futon bed

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 292.9 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View map
Bolinas, CA
  • Place, Bolinas Lagoon Preserve
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Bolinas Museum
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Bolinas Beach
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Airport, San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)
    ‪82 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Single Futon

Living Room 1

1 Queen Futon

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Office
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

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.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 12:00 PM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: less than 23 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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.
7 night maximum stay
Need to see proof of vaccination card or proof of test 36 hours before checkin

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

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Bolinas

Located in Bolinas, this cottage is in the city centre and near the beach. Muir Woods National Monument and Bolinas Lagoon Preserve reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Stinson Beach Books and Book Passage. Travelling with kids? Consider Rebound Bookstore, or check out an event or a game at Marin Bocce Federation. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Bolinas, CA

What's nearby

  • Bolinas Lagoon Preserve - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Bolinas Museum - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Bolinas Beach - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Stinson Beach - 13 min drive - 12.3 km
  • Golden Gate Bridge - 43 min drive - 38.8 km

Getting around

  • San Francisco Station - 49 min drive
  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO) - 114 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Parkside Cafe - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Breakers Cafe - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Smiley's Schooner Saloon & Hotel - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Coast Cafe - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Parkside Snack Bar - ‬11 min drive

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 does it cost to stay at The Bolinas Artist Cottage-Just a Minit! near the Sea?

As of 27 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Bolinas Artist Cottage-Just a Minit! near the Sea on 8 June 2026 start from AU$479, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

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).

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 69 out of 88 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 13 out of 88 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 88 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 88 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 88 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy home and super thoughtful host. Loved the artsy vibe and great location
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Mar 2026
thank you so much for coming to stay and taking the time
Verified

8/10 Good

Susan C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great spot. It was a lovely get a way.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Dec 2025
Thank you for enjoying the house.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Dec 2025
Thank you so much for enjoying the house and we love making the house an artistic experience and cozy.
Verified

8/10 Good

Peter B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

We loved the soaking tub and the location.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Oct 2025
thank you so much for coming!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gretchen H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Such a magical little place. Inside and out. Plus a block or so to the beach. . . makes it even better.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bruce S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Dec 2025
Yes the house is grandfathered in from 1910 with the small indoor staircase but we put another standard staircase outside . We the owners are shorter people. We put a flip oven in so it would take up less counter space but yes it is a small kitchen but adequate.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Stay

Lovely place near the beach
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Oct 2022
Thanks we hoped that you would like it!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

kate c.

Great!

Really enjoyed our time here!
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar 2020
Thanks for taking the time to write something. Were you the folks who left the drawing of the little house?
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mini vacation

A very unusual property (as you can see from the pictures) with charm and attention to detail
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Dec 2025
Thank you for enjoying the house we try to make it a creative experience.
Verified

4/10 Poor

Debra T.

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
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Dec 2025
The cleaner and myself did not notice that someone spilt some coffee on the couch throw but we have since laundered it thoroughly but do not know about the house having other issues except it has been very cold these last few weeks. There is a very powerful propane heater installed that would get rid of any problems and a wood stove and it is a redwood house. I was preparing for Open Studio the following Thanksgiving weekend and was told by others they loved the art all around. I can remove some. As to hanging cords there is one by the dining table for low voltage Christmas lights to light the way when people go upstairs or have diner at the table . I can fix that
Verified

8/10 Good

Julie B.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing little place, close to the ocean.

Loved the gardens most of all! Really enjoyed that our fur babies were welcome.:)
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Aug 2020
Thank you for taking the time. to reply. You are welcome anytime
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nancy R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Enchanted cottage

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.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Sept 2024
Thank you Nancy for enjoying our house. We just fixed the front patio too and everything by looks great
Verified

10/10 Excellent

elysa m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gettaway perfection

If you want a perfect getaway in bolinas staying in a work of art. this is it.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Dec 2025
thank you for enjoying!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Roxanne M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

sweet getaway

This is a sweet space for a cozy time.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar 2020
Thank you for writing your impression. We hope you will come back again soon. We installed a bidet .
Verified

8/10 Good

Thomas N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Interesting place

Lots to see in the house. A very interesting place. Some spaces a little tight for us (both over 6ft tall).
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 16 July 2024
yes the grandfathered part the dining room of the house has a loft making a low ceiling but other parts of the house are tall. Thank you for coming! I wanted to meet and passed by the house but you must have been out!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

nancy n.

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!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar 2020
Thank you for taking the time to write about your stay. Yes we have a quirkey house but ope it is cozy still
Archival

8/10 Good

ellen h.

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!
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar 2020
We are a coastal town and if we have a cold snap which is the days that you stayed then downstairs you have to keep all the heaters running . We have heated rugs and toilet seat and fans to circulate the air and a woodstove that you have sit with at first to get it started.This house was built in the 20's downstairs.Mostly all year round it is plenty warm as we are in California but if the outdoor temperature drops into the 30's at night then it is best to layer clothing which is what people do out here.December on clear nights can be cold.But if it rains it is fine.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tony M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect

Perfect place, perfect location, perfect size, perfect weather. What’s not to love?
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 25 June 2023
thank you for staying and wish we could have accommodated better on the day of checkin and I hope your family situation turned out for the better
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alyssa R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Unique retreat near the coast

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 :)
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

gerard d.

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!
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar 2020
Thank you for taking your time. We were so happy to have you and glad you liked the art and you could make your delicious dinners.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

paulina b.

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!
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar 2020
Thanks for taking the time to write something. Glad you could stay some extra time. We are getting a new coffee maker,though we have many old fashioned options for coffee makers there and a bidet is coming. Don't forget to mention "Just a Minit" Cottage (no e)on your promo. That is important .Do not forget to pickup your guitar. We are holding for you but as time passes it might get buried in all the things people have forgotten.
Verified

8/10 Good

Anne D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Artsy vintage Bolinas vibe

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.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Aug 2022
Thank you for understanding our little cottage. I am a theatre person and the house always rotates through various exhibits trying to create a comfortable imaginative setting
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alison H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy cottage in ideal location

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.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Jan 2022
So sorry the weather was bad, just before you came we were having drought!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Emily C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Living in a work of art

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.
Stayed 6 nights in May 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 22 May 2023
so happyt you enjoyed the house. I just added prayer flags to the back. Glad you appreciated the ouside stairs and dont know if you used the stair lift as I wish someone would thank you so much for coming.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Luke A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

All around experience, perfect.

House was clean, welcoming, and it took us days to take it all in. Even after a week, I would discover something new I hadn’t seen before - quite the artist experience! Beyond comfortable, there is a very pleasant and helpful feeling to the whole property. We adored it all. Bolinas is a treat, it was quite a priveledge to simply walk home from the beach and not have to drive somewhere on 1. We grocery shopped, ate out, and got coffee at 7am, all within walking distance. We will return, it was a memorable family vacation.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar 2020
Thank you so much! I try to explore what makes people feel cozy or comfortable or creative. Not all people are the same but if the place reaches the right person or family then it is gratifying for us after all these years of renting out our home short term. We always want the finest and appreciative people thank you for choosing.

About the host

Hosted by Sha Sha Higby,Albert Hollander

Host profile image
Albert and Sha Sha love to be near the ocean,and can Albert loves to be handy and fix things in the cottage and Sha Sha Higby makes elaborate costume sculptures and performs in them as pictured here. She has performed all over he world.Sha Sha used to come to Bolinas with her family when she was a child and the house looks likes the dollhouses she made. Albert handcrafted much of the house himself and works in the Bolinas Peoples Natural Food store.

Why they chose this property

We both love this town as it is rural,we can walk to the ocean every afternoon and yet be in the city in an hour to have whatever culture we need. Albert lived in this house for years before we bought it. It used to be a garage during the turn of he century and was gradually enlarged over the years.

What makes this property unique

Cozy evenings. We spent a long time making the house an artistic experience filling it with the textiles we collected during our travels when I was performing. Sha Sha had a Fulbright in India for research in textiles when she and Albert were married. At night I love to take walks to the beach and a loop around the town. It is all very close.

Languages:

English, Spanish, Japanese, Indonesian

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