Top-rated for comfort — guests feel right at home here.
Discover nearby landmarks
Close to Bolinas Beach
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 2
Popular amenities
Spa pool on site
Onsite parking available
Pet-friendly
Kitchen
Washing machine
Air-conditioning
Explore the area
Bolinas, CA
Bolinas Lagoon Preserve
Place, Bolinas Lagoon Preserve
5 min walk
Bolinas Museum
Place, Bolinas Museum
5 min walk
Bolinas Beach
Place, Bolinas Beach
8 min walk
San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)
Airport, San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)
80 min drive
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 2)
Bedroom 1
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 2
1 Single 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 This is the country on the edge of a quail reserve and we do our best to keep the house clean . * We are on the edge of a quail reserve and have wildlife. We do our best to clean everything, and you might find a spider or two in the bathtub area as they love moisture. Local spiders are safe and catch flies. We are on the edge of a 40-acre quail reserve, so we do not give refunds for wildlife you might encounter, especially if doors are left open or there are smells of food. It is your responsibility and almost the law now to separate food garbage from regular garbage. We recommend keeping food garbage in the freezer or fridge till checkout. Our home is cleaned thoroughly before every arrival and accurately reflects the description provided in our listing. Because personal allergy triggers vary widely and are out of our control, we must follow our standard cancellation policy. not that our house used propane for heat and stove. It is an old, wonderful redwood house, and you will sleep well in this natural environment compared to everywhere else you might stay. It is like being in another time .The base rate is for 2 guests. Additional guests, including children, must be included in the reservation for accurate pricing. * Pets are welcome! A pet fee of $30 per stay applies. * Please keep doors closed and food stored securely. 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.
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Pets allowed: less than 23 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
default
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
we do not give refunds for wildlife you might encounter especially if doors are left open or you have personal sensitivities .
separate your garbage and keep food garbage in freezer or fridge
Important information
You need to know
Property # 70306vb
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 has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
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. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with mountain biking and cycling.
Muir Woods National Monument - 30 min drive - 28.0 km
Getting around
San Francisco Station - 49 min drive
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) - 114 min drive
Restaurants
Parkside Cafe - 11 min drive
Parkside Snack Bar - 11 min drive
Breakers Cafe - 11 min drive
Smiley's Schooner Saloon & Hotel - 5 min walk
Coast Cafe - 5 min walk
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.
How much does it cost to stay at The Bolinas Artist Cottage-Just a Minit! near the Sea?
As of 25 Sept 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Bolinas Artist Cottage-Just a Minit! near the Sea on 27 Sept 2026 start from AU$1,093, 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 noon.
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.
Such a charming property. Great host! The rating system only let me leave four stars but we love it there and give 5 stars across the board. Charming cottage!!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Sept 2026
Thank you for enjoying our house we try to make people feel cozy and we have added a new quilt and air purifier in case you need them. For a period there is a nice access to the beach if turn right out of the house and head to the ocean.You are there in 5 minutes on foot.
What a unique place! My daughter was signed up for surfing camp and we were so lucky to find this place so she could walk to camp every day while I worked. There was a nice view where I could watch folks coming and going and the place was comfy and it was great looking at all of the art. Sha Sha was very communicative and let me know where things were when I asked.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 27 July 2026
thank you for loving the place and come back again
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 review
4/10 Poor
Joyce R.
4 Aug 2026
Liked: Check-in, communication
Disliked: Cleanliness
I was disappointed in the rental. I like funky places with character, but way too clutter & real not very safe. Not one window could be opened & it was musty smelling. Extension cords everywhere. Not really clean but so much stuff I guess it would be hard to clean it…spider webs &Rugs on top of rugs. It was close to the beach & but no way to see through the overgrown plants & vegetation in the yard. I enjoyed the time with my sister for my birthday, but would not return to this rental.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Aug 2026
You can open the pop out window in the bedroom and the window in the bedroom. You cannot actually see the beach because of the hill on the right side of our house. I left the plants in the Sunroom upstairs and the bathroom because they felt tropical . i can get rid of the extra small throw rugs for sure and some of the art will be leaving soon. It is an old 1930 house downstairs so there weren’t very many outlets but we added two big outlets for 6 plugs 2 years ago but we can add more upstairs
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.
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
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.
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!
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!
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.
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 review
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!
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.
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
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!
About the host
Hosted by Sha Sha Higby,Albert Hollander
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
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests