Holiday Cottages in California: A Guide to Famous Big and Small Retreats

California’s holiday cottages offer cozy and scenic escapes, blending comfort and tranquility in some of the state’s most beautiful locations. From luxurious coastal hideaways to charming rustic cabins in the mountains, these cottages cater to every traveler’s taste. Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the best holiday cottages across the state.

Coastal Holiday Cottages

Carmel Cottage Inn – Carmel-by-the-Sea

Features: Nestled in the heart of this charming seaside town, the cottages feature fireplaces, private patios, and proximity to the beach.

Why Visit: Perfect for art lovers and beachgoers, with galleries and ocean views within walking distance.

The Sanctuary Beach Resort – Marina

Location: Monterey Bay

Highlights: Oceanfront cottages offering luxury amenities, private decks, and direct beach access.

Activities: Whale watching, surfing, and exploring Monterey’s scenic coastline.

Wine Country Retreats

Carneros Resort and Spa – Napa Valley

Features: Luxury cottages with vineyard views, private gardens, and outdoor soaking tubs.

Why Stay Here: Ideal for wine enthusiasts looking for a romantic or indulgent getaway.

Russian River Studios – Sonoma County

Highlights: Quaint cottages surrounded by lush vineyards and redwoods, offering a peaceful rural escape.

Mountain Hideaways

Sequoia Resort – Badger

Location: Sierra Nevada Mountains

Features: Charming cottages with stunning mountain views and close access to Sequoia National Park.

Activities: Hiking, stargazing, and exploring the park’s ancient groves.

Shaver Lake Cottages – Shaver Lake

Highlights: Cozy, rustic cabins with modern amenities near the lake, ideal for fishing, boating, and winter sports.

Desert and Unique Cottages

Sacred Sands – Joshua Tree

Features: Desert-inspired luxury cottages near Joshua Tree National Park with minimalist design and breathtaking sunsets.

Why Visit: Perfect for artists, stargazers, and nature enthusiasts.

Inn at Death Valley – Furnace Creek

Highlights: Historical desert cottages offering luxury amenities in the heart of Death Valley National Park.

Family-Friendly Cottages

Boon Hotel + Spa – Guerneville

Location: Sonoma County

Features: Eco-friendly cottages with family-friendly amenities and close access to Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve.

Lake Tahoe Vacation Cottages – Tahoe City

Highlights: Spacious cottages perfect for families, with kitchens, fireplaces, and access to Lake Tahoe’s recreational activities.

Rustic and Small Town Charm

Fernwood Resort – Big Sur

Features: Rustic cottages surrounded by redwoods, offering a laid-back, off-the-grid experience.

Activities: Explore Big Sur’s dramatic cliffs and hiking trails.

Apple Blossom Inn – Julian

Location: San Diego County

Why Visit: Quaint cottages in this charming mountain town known for apple orchards and homemade pies.

Modern and Luxurious Cottages

Point Reyes Seashore Lodge – Olema

Features: Modern cottages with chic interiors and easy access to Point Reyes National Seashore.

Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the serene coastal landscape.

Big Bear Frontier Cabins – Big Bear Lake

Location: San Bernardino Mountains

Why Visit: Luxury and rustic charm combined, ideal for skiing in winter or lake activities in summer.

Budget-Friendly Options

Laguna Beach House – Laguna Beach

Features: Budget-friendly beach cottages offering basic comforts and proximity to the vibrant Laguna Beach art scene.

Cottages at Little River Cove – Mendocino

Highlights: Affordable ocean-view cottages with easy access to coastal trails and quaint Mendocino shops.

Why Choose Holiday Cottages?

Holiday cottages offer a unique way to explore California, combining the comforts of home with the charm of local culture and scenery. Whether you’re seeking solitude in the mountains, ocean breezes on the coast, or a wine country escape, there’s a cottage perfect for your next getaway.