Top 1% of guest reviews in this areaTop 1% of guest reviews in this area
Highlights
The great outdoors
Guests love the outdoor space here.
Discover nearby landmarks
Near Alameda Island Brewing Company
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2
Popular amenities
Onsite parking available
Kitchen
Barbecue
Balcony or patio
Internet access
Fireplace
Explore the area
Alameda, CA
Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach
Place, Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach
11 min walk
Great White Adventures
Place, Great White Adventures
18 min walk
Alameda Island Brewing Company
Place, Alameda Island Brewing Company
18 min walk
Oakland, CA (OAK-Oakland Intl.)
Airport, Oakland, CA (OAK-Oakland Intl.)
11 min drive
Rooms & beds
1 bedroom (sleeps 2)
Bedroom 1
1 Queen Bed
1 bathroom
Bathroom 1
Toilet · Shower only
Spaces
Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Beautiful and Lush Hidden Wisteria Getaway
Things to note..... - we have a MAXIMIUM STAY of 8 nights - In our compact but fully amended bathroom, the toilet is in the shower for space saving reasons. - we are a studio cottage with one queen sized bed - Unfortunately, due to California's historic drought, we no longer offer laundry services but there is a clean and well-appointed laundromat just a 10-minute walk away. - We offer onsite parking. Please let us know in advance if you will need to park.
The island of Alameda is considered by some as the hidden gem of the San Francisco Bay Area.
Your hosts have turned their circa 1890s detached carriage house and stable into a welcoming garden getaway. This tastefully appointed guest spot is perfect for a quiet escape or extended academic or corporate visit.
Nestled in a quiet neighborhood, you are just walking distance from Park Street, Alameda's central shopping district. Here you'll find everything you need....antique shops, cafes, restaurants, boutiques and the newly renovated Alameda Theatre. Less than a mile away you'll find a pristine beach park with stunning views of the San Francisco skyline.
Want to head into 'The City'? You are just 25 minutes away from all SF has to offer. We are close to the Alameda ferry, AC Transit and BART. A quick drive over the Bay Bridge drops you right into the heart of downtown San Francisco.
The owners have spent decades collecting antiques and designing interiors and have used their talents to create a comfortable,quiet vacation space for those who appreciate a green way of living.
Virtually every item, from floor to ceiling is recovered or recycled in some way.
The Garden: The bungalow is covered by a gorgeous and legendary Wisteria tree that is the star of the spring season.
The practice of 'Living Green' extends to the lush surrounding gardens. Old San Francisco cobblestones, recovered copper downspouts and perfectly placed architectural elements create a serene garden so creative you'd think you were on a movie set.
A Koi pond that is sometimes visited by elegant egrets, sits just outside the bungalow door. The garden is surrounded by three small aviaries that house small families of canaries. Their song and the sound of flowing water will lull you while you read a book in the sun on your own private patio.
The Neighborhood & Beyond: Developed in the late 1800s as a beach resort community, the modern day version still holds much of it's charm from the early 20th century.
Take a drive through the different neighborhoods and you'll see beautiful examples of California architecture. Perfectly restored Victorians share the same street with cute California Bungalows and Craftsman style homes.
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Charming 3-bedroom house in excellent Alameda with AC, WiFi
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Cleaning policy
Please
- Wash dishes and place them in the dish rack.
- Bag up trash and recycling separately.
- Place used towels in the shower.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 938138
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, a first aid kit and a deadlock
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
Alameda
Located in Alameda, this cottage is in the city centre. The area's natural beauty can be seen at San Francisco Bay and Alcatraz Island, while Bill Graham Civic Auditorium and California Academy of Sciences are popular area attractions. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, or consider SF Masonic Auditorium for a night out. Discover the area's water adventures with windsurfing and sailing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling and mountain biking.
Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach - 11 min walk - 1.0 km
AMF Southshore Lanes - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
Bowlero Alameda - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
Great White Adventures - 18 min walk - 1.5 km
Alameda Island Brewing Company - 18 min walk - 1.5 km
Getting around
Fruitvale Station - 3 min drive
Coliseum Station - 7 min drive
Oakland, CA (OAK-Oakland Intl.) - 15 min drive
Restaurants
Park Station - 4 min walk
Lucky 13 - 6 min walk
Applebee's Grill + Bar - 12 min walk
Jack in the Box - 6 min walk
Julie's Coffee & Tea Garden - 5 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Beautiful and Lush Hidden Wisteria Getaway pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Beautiful and Lush Hidden Wisteria Getaway?
As of 29 June 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Beautiful and Lush Hidden Wisteria Getaway on 21 June 2027 start from AU$388, 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 Beautiful and Lush Hidden Wisteria Getaway?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Beautiful and Lush Hidden Wisteria Getaway?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Beautiful and Lush Hidden Wisteria Getaway?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Beautiful and Lush Hidden Wisteria Getaway located?
Located in the heart of Alameda, this cottage is within 6 miles (10 km) of San Francisco Bay, Oakland Arena and USS Hornet Museum. Lake Merritt and Oakland Museum of California are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
I have family in Alameda, and whenever we start planning a get together I first check to be sure that I can book this property. It is outstanding in every way, the best of the VRBO properties we have used in the U.S., Germany and Italy.
Dear Gregg and Sue !! It was so nice having you here and meeting your mother again . I'm glad she remembered the place that her friend stayed and enjoyed it immensely ! It was evident you two did ! We'll be waiting for your return . Best Regards ! John & Arthur
What a magical little place! Great location, walking distance to lots of little restaurants and stores. Easy to get on the ferry and head over to San Francisco! John and Arthur are wonderful and were so helpful!
Tamarra D.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 May 2026
It was so nice of you to choose us , for your celebration of your daughter's 17th birthday ! The pleasure you expressed to us about your choosing our place and the comfort that came with it , was so nice for us to know that we did something right ! It was our Pleasure !!!!!!! J&A
This place is so special that I selfishly hate to say so for fear of competing in the future with other guests who would discover, like I did, how amazing it is. I'll leave it at that because I don't want to spoil the gift that you will receive when you get there.
We loved our experience in this unique oasis! We felt welcome and at home in the thoughtfully designed and comfortable space. The tiny kitchen had everything we needed, and we enjoyed our al fresco meals in the garden. It was a treat to meet our lovely and gracious hosts who have spent 50 years building and nurturing their little paradise.
Verified traveller
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Apr 2026
Thank You ! For such a lovely review . We so enjoyed your visit with us . The weather was perfect for you to have lunch in the garden by the pond and the wisteria overhead scenting the air was a delightful site to see ! Thank you also for the care you showed the cottage and the thrill of putting your clothing into our fine antique cabinet .We do hope you return. !!!!!!! J&A
Beautiful, serene garden setting with great accommodations and a wonderful host.
Patricia T.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Jan 2026
Thank you ! Jim and Pat , it was a pleasure having you here ! Knowing that you came from Hawaii , such a resort I was leery of your response ; I needn't worry ; after seeing your faces filled with joy over your presence in our garden and a good night sleep in the cottage . Hope to have you back soon ! Till then, Keep Well !!! John & Arthur
Absolutely loved it! The owners were nice and helpful if I needed anything, which I did not. The outdoor area was so relaxing. It was nice to listen to the birds, trickle of the pond, and take in all the beautiful plants.
Robin S.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Apr 2026
Well , your words are sure an uplift to our day !! It's all the things we wanted when we created this place . It's been such a Gift to us , to have so many guests find all the pleasures we hoped they would come across !!
John & Arthur
John and Arthur are great hosts. The cottage has a lovely, artistic touch. The backyard is rather astounding in its natural beauty. Secluded, inviting, a kind of cloistered feeling.
Dennis J.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Apr 2026
Thanks ! Great having you here !!! The cloister effect is the one we like !! Come again !
The host was so kind and friendly. He welcomed us to the cottage and gave us information about the area and where to go, what to see. Lovely people and the most adorable space for us to be together.
kevin k.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Jan 2026
Thanks for your review !! Our meeting was such a pleasure . And glad that our little cottage was such a good match !!!Hope next time as you mentioned to us your future plans, we will chat in the garden by the pond . Knowing that our location and amenities was easy for you to get some much needed rest and then travel around the SF Bay Area ! Till then ! Best Regards !! John and Arthur
Host was very welcoming and helpful with parking. Cottage is warm, beautifully decorated and comfortable. The garden is exquisite, even in the middle of winter.
My third time staying here to visit my daughter nearby. Everything was fine. Pretty property and nice owners who live in the main house. Good location close to walk to restaurants and stores.
David C.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Nov 2025
Thank you David !! It was sure nice to see you , and now your wife and daughter for the first time! You were a perfect guests . I just wish that the weather was warmer so you could have spent time by the pond ! Till next time , Keep well !!! John & Arthur
The cottage is an absolute gem! It was the perfect space to relax and unwind for a few days. There is total privacy, and it's a wonderful quiet retreat.
Glad you liked the surroundings . Yes ! it's real quiet here even though we are ten minutes to the Oakland Airport and the freeway . It's the breeze from the Bay that help clear our air and the noise that goes with it ! Maybe next time you will spend some time in the garden that your friend fell in love with . Till then , Keep Well J&A
The cottage was an amazing place to call home for a week. The place was beautiful, very clean, fully equipped with everything we needed, and very cozy. It felt safe, comfortable and was nice ans quiet.
Maggie M.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 16 July 2025
It was an absolute pleasure seeing you again !!! We hope when you return from the UK that you will unwind in the garden by the pond ! And maybe see more of you , instead of your young active life taking you all over the world ! The Garden Awaits !!!
Our Best ! John & Arthur
About the host
Hosted by Melissa Burnley at Bella Bay Vacation Rentals
Your reservation will be manged by Melissa but John and Arthur live in the Main House and will be your hosts.
The talents of your hosts, John and Arthur, have appeared on HGTV’s Curb Appeal and in a series of books on Arts & Crafts bungalows by Paul Duchscherer – The Bungalow, Inside the Bungalow and Outside the Bungalow. Their business, House of Orange, specializes in European Arts & Crafts furnishings, and some of their most outstanding pieces are now in the homes of local collectors who have become close friends over the years.
Why they chose this property
Their carriage house – circa 1890, has been turned into a garden guest getaway – and except for a few planks, tiles and a sofa bed, the space and its contents are all recycled in some way. The wood interior and exterior siding are bits and pieces from old projects, and with their creative eye, all the pieces work: as ceiling and wall sections, windowsills, door jambs, storage closets - you name it!
Their recycling even extends to the surrounding yard. Reclaimed copper downspouts from the roof divert rainwater into the koi pond and an existing well. The outdoor lighting is on a sensor to save energy, and old lanterns were rewired as lamps. Chimney liners were turned into water features and pulley hooks into sturdy plant hangers. All plants need little to no watering and bloom beautifully.
Wisteria Getaway – a name given to it by friends and guests – may be small, but every idea John and Arthur used was big on result and can easily translate on an even grander scale. They provide decorating, remodeling and landscaping services and advice.
What makes this property unique
John and Arthur are called the “Green Giants” because they are all about reducing, reusing and recycling in a BIG and BEAUTIFUL way. Whether shopping at thrift stores for clothing, repaving their driveway with old cobblestones from a San Francisco street, or resurfacing floors with reclaimed wood, they make mindful and creative use of materials with spectacular results!
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests