The best treehouse rentals near Monterey, California

On the edge of Monterey Bay, about an hour’s drive south of Santa Cruz and north of Big Sur, Monterey offers pretty sea views, lots of things to see, and oceanside camping. The city’s former sardine-packing district, Cannery Row is the main hub of tourism, featuring shops, restaurants, and the celebrated Monterey Bay Aquarium. There’s also plenty to experience in the surrounding area—tee off at one of the many golf courses around the Monterey Peninsula; explore the hiking trails of the Carmel Valley or Asilomar State Beach; make a wintertime visit to Pacific Grove's Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary; or motor along 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach to see the legendary Lone Cypress. While most camping options right in town are RV parks, you'll find plenty of Hipcamps and campgrounds offering tent camping just a bit inland, like in Salinas at its Laguna Seca Recreation Area, which welcomes tents and RVs even during race events.

98% (739)

Top-rated campgrounds

On the edge of Monterey Bay, about an hour’s drive south of Santa Cruz and north of Big Sur, Monterey offers pretty sea views, lots of things to see, and oceanside camping. The city’s former sardine-packing district, Cannery Row is the main hub of tourism, featuring shops, restaurants, and the celebrated Monterey Bay Aquarium. There’s also plenty to experience in the surrounding area—tee off at one of the many golf courses around the Monterey Peninsula; explore the hiking trails of the Carmel Valley or Asilomar State Beach; make a wintertime visit to Pacific Grove's Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary; or motor along 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach to see the legendary Lone Cypress. While most camping options right in town are RV parks, you'll find plenty of Hipcamps and campgrounds offering tent camping just a bit inland, like in Salinas at its Laguna Seca Recreation Area, which welcomes tents and RVs even during race events.

98% (739)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. dabudage Big Sur

95%

(720)

48mi from Monterey · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging · CA

DABUDAGE in southern Big Sur. ***READ THIS ENTIRE WRITTEN DESCRIPTION BEFORE REQUESTING TO BOOK!* And Format Request as Specified *. Disconnect from the virtual world and surround yourself in nature. At the base of a majestic canyon where steep mountains plunge to the ocean, along a flowing creek. Backed by redwood trees and surrounded by national forest is a minimalistic homestead with family, friends and animals. *The prices have been raised on hipcamp as Hipcamp now takes more than a 25% cut. Discounts and/or trades may be available if needed. You can visit our site on the web for more information at dabudage. *We currently only accept reservations for dates within the next 3 weeks*. You must Arrive Before Dark to find your site. There is no wi-fi, cell service or electricity. Hwy 1 is currently closed to the north of this land. The only access is through Cambria from the south or over the mountain from King City off of Hwy 101 There are two small communal guest kitchens, fresh water, a shower/bath and composting barrel poopers. A massive flood in Jan 2021 brought 100's of gigantic full sized redwood trees and boulders smashing down thru most of the land and previous structures. It is and will be in the process of rebuilding for many years to come. Children are welcome. Dogs are welcome off-leash. Alcohol is discouraged. No electronic music devices. Fires in designated pits only. Pack out trash. TO RESERVE A SITE - Please include a bit about yourself/party and where you’re coming from. *YOU MUST ALSO INCLUDE - “ My party and I have read the description” - IN ORDER TO BE ACCEPTED Requests are usually checked once daily.

2. The Secret Gardens by the Bay

98%

(314)

25mi from Monterey · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Watsonville, CA

✨ The Secret Gardens ✨ Once upon a time, hidden just beyond the whispers of the ocean breeze, there was a secret place where roses stretched toward the sky, dahlias painted the land with color, and lavender cascaded like purple waterfalls. No one quite knew how to find it—until they stumbled upon it. Here, hearts opened with ease, carried by birdsong, the sway of ancient oaks, the fragrance of woodsmoke, and the laughter that seemed to live in the very air. The Secret Gardens unfurls across 11 acres of enchanted redwoods and noble oaks, where each campsite bears a name drawn straight from the pages of Alice in Wonderland. Guests often tell us: “One night is never enough.” And indeed, when you step out of your car, words and pictures fail—there is only the Wow. In true secret-garden spirit, we share just enough glimpses to spark curiosity. The real magic is revealed only when you arrive. Just one mile from Seascape Beach and a short stroll to Seascape Village—with its quaint cafés, market, spa, and more—our haven balances wild wonder with simple comforts. 🌿 The Realms of the Secret Gardens 🌲 Tulgey Woods Nestled beneath towering redwoods, this woodland hosts RV and tent sites, along with Dodo’s Glamp and the Secret Wagon. Here you’ll find showers, bathrooms, a communal kitchen, a campfire circle, and outdoor dining spaces. It’s perfect for families, car campers, and adventurers with roomy tents. ♟️ Chessboard Land Where play and comfort intertwine: cabins, a communal lounge, a sprawling kitchen, living-wall showers, cozy firepits, and even a projector screen for starlit cinema nights. This is the social heart of the gardens. 🐇 Rabbit Holes (open late spring through summer) Two primitive hideaways—Tweedledee and Tweedledum—await in the wilder reaches of the land. Here, no cars intrude; instead, we whisk your belongings by ATV to these tucked-away forest nooks. 🌸 Private Group Groves Three secluded enclaves designed for gatherings, each with its own bathroom, shower, grill, and sink: • Cheshire Grove • The Horseshoe • Wonderland ⸻ 🌟 What Awaits You • Cozy cabins, Dodo’s Glamp, and the Secret Wagon—complete with bedding, heaters, and access to Chessboard Land’s wonders. • Communal spaces alive with warmth: kitchen, fire pits and trail

3. Epic Views at Lago Lomita Vineyards

35mi from Monterey · 2 sites · Lodging · Los Gatos, CA

Our yurt and treehouse are located on Lago Lomita Vineyards with a view of the entire Monterey Bay. We've been hosting guests since 2015 and are looking forward to meeting you! Both our treehouse and yurt listings are unique experiences. They both are adjacent to the Tierra Madre Vineyard Block and have awesome views of the entire Monterey Bay/Pacific Ocean. We are located on 44 acres high atop the Santa Cruz Mountains but close to all the major beaches and Silicon Valley. Please be aware this is camping in nature, along with squirrels, spiders, falling leaves, etc. and nature is not always for everyone. There is a 45ft. ladder to climb to get into the treehouse. The view at sunset is spectacular. Featured on the first page of top Glamping destinations in California, in National Geographic's 50 States, 500 campgrounds. Both sites include a trunk of goodies: Complimentary trunk of goodies that is filled with muffins, mugs, creamer, sugar, coffee, croissants, cards, champagne & wine glasses & wine opener! We acquired the property in 1991, shortly after the Lexington Fire (1985) and Loma Prieta earthquake (1989). At that time, the entire property has degenerated into disrepair, and all the vineyards had been overwhelmed by the wilderness. In 2011, we started the herculean effort of clearing away the wilderness, resurrecting all the vineyards and renovating our home. In 2014, we started replanting the vineyards, and opened our tree house to visitors in 2015. Just like us, I think you will fall in love with this property, and enjoy every minute of your time here. We look forward to your stay. Robin and Mark

Stories from the community

B

Bo

September 2025

1 night at dabudage Big Sur

My partner and I loved the redwood gazebo at Gene’s camp site. The view from the site is gorgeous. Gene is responsive and friendly. I would love to go back when possible - also highly recommend it to anyone looking for a calm and therapeutic experience.

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Lorraine

September 2025

2 nights at dabudage Big Sur

The views are stunning and definitely help with emotional regulation and grounding. The more in tuned you are with nature the better your experience will be. The hike up to the Redwood Room was a lot and my first day my legs were SORE! However, there is a water spigot and a pooper close by the room so you don't have to keep climbing up and down for basic needs. The only downfall is food. Because of the raccoons, having food up is a giant no no. However, the nighttime racoon activity did keep my pup up all night, less about me feeling in any sense of danger, but more of something to keep in mind. There was also a cluster of daddy long legs just outside of the room. Knowing they are completely harmless to humans I didn't mind, plus apparently when they cluster, they emit an odor that is supposed to repel predators from coming close so it gave me a sense of safety. Overall, it was a wonderful experience being out there and I hope to return.

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Tara

September 2025

Weekend Trip to The Secret Gardens by the Bay

The place is super special. The host were beyond wonderful. We thoroughly enjoyed being here and will definitely be back. One thing to note specifically about the tree house... there are no windows coverings, so I felt really exposed when changing our using the toilet, which has just a pony wall for privacy. There is also road noise, which was noticeably when you're trying to sleep. I would stay in a different spot next time.

Brady

August 2025

3 nights at dabudage Big Sur

I was blown away by the listing, and it met and even exceeded expectations upon arrival. Gene is super cool, and is passionate about his property, and great with communication. The attention to detail he's put into this place is incredible. I was in heaven the three days and nights I spent here. There's no service, and you have a very serene location to unplug here, with easy access to your own beaches and hiking trails. Gene's outdoor kitchen area was great for my cooking needs, and the shower was great too. I stayed in the Redwoods Gazebo up top. It's a hike up, so be prepared, but it's worth it!

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eyal

August 2025

1 night at dabudage Big Sur

Magical place, nothing more to add. Cant wait to come back again !

Adrienne

July 2025

2 nights at dabudage Big Sur

This is a unique property and in the most beautiful location right across hwy1. The Cabana is very comfortable, nice comfy bed. No electricity and the hike up to it is a very steep narrow trail. You cannot roll a wagon up it so everything needs to be carried to your Cabana and it's not for anyone who has physical restrictions. But the view from the top is worth it!

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Alisa

June 2025

1 night at dabudage Big Sur

Amazing spot. Pictures definitely don’t do it justice

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John

June 2025

3 nights at dabudage Big Sur

The property is exactly as described - wonderful, private, on a creek, delightful. Gene and his family are kind and helpful. We slept great, the gazebo was very comfortable for two.

Eva

June 2025

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

What a beautiful place! Stunning location right on the ocean, with sounds of the river (frogs at night!) echoing up the canyon. The Redwood Room sits at a special spot up the hill with a gorgeous view. Everything is rustic yet thoughtfully designed. The description is spot on (ex: BYO bedding, etc), and if you're used to camping, this will be a treat.

Luciana

May 2025

Weekend Trip to The Secret Gardens by the Bay

I loved the camping at yeyens land! Its magic and beautiful. We had a great time, and we cannot wait to go back again! Yeyen and her husband are great hosts. Thank you for everything!

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Maureen

April 2025

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

We loved this place! We only stayed on night along our drive home. Really nice coming from the north even though Hwy 1 north of the property was closed. A beautiful/ kinda scary drive but if you go slow, it’s an experience. Reminded me of the road to Hana! lol! You gotta be into rustic vibes. Epic view, full moon rise. Creek side fire. We are it up! The redwood Gazebo is up a steep hill. We backpacked up with our sleeping bags, pillows and other little essentials. We wish we would have done all our business down low before we hiked up. I’d bring a couple libations and snacks. Chilling up in the perch is epic! We will be back!!

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Jasmine

April 2025

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

This was our second time camping here and it was just as lovely as the first. All the little animals are adorable. The kitchen is always helpful. The Redwood Room Gazebo was a great site! Worth the short hike up and down.

Christine

February 2025

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

Honestly, never made it there because we left somewhat late and got lost in the dark so found another campsite, but the host was very communicative with quick replies which was much appreciated so I wanted to comment on that. There were road closures that were not listed on google maps, so next time I would definitely leave much earlier to leave plenty of time to get there.

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Nicholas

February 2025

Weekend Trip to The Secret Gardens by the Bay

Very nice site. Beautiful cabin that has windows that look out. Space heater and bathrooms.

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Benjamin

January 2025

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

We were in the redwood gazebo; the view from the room is pretty gorgeous and the whole property is in a really pretty spot off highway 1. Animals everywhere and the kitchen/campfire areas are easy to find. Would recommend!

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Allison

January 2025

1 night at dabudage Big Sur

My best friend and I spent a night at the Redwood and we loved it so much! The view and the property itself was beautiful. Definitely be prepared and bring extra blankets. Gene asked us if we needed extras too! Truly worth going if youre looking to make camping with a twist. We’re definitely gonna be back anytime we visit the area again! Thank you Gene!

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Ana

December 2024

6 nights at dabudage Big Sur

We loooved the property! Super charming. The bath house was magical. Beautiful spot tucked away right by the water. Gorgeous views. The cats were cute but a bit annoying, aggressively trying to take our food.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best treehouses near Monterey guide

Where to go

Monterey Peninsula

Jutting out into the sea west of Monterey, the Monterey Peninsula is home to pretty beaches, scenic viewpoints, and tons of golf courses. At its southern end, Carmel-by-the-Sea features whimsical architecture and a historic old mission.

San Francisco Peninsula

On the northern side of Monterey Bay, the San Francisco Peninsula features forests, sandy beaches, and a mix of public and private campgrounds, many surrounded by redwood trees. Popular spots include Half Moon Bay, a celebrated surfing destination, and Año Nuevo State Park, where you can see elephant seals throughout the year.

Big Sur

From Monterey, it's only a quick jaunt down Highway 1 before you reach the Big Sur coast, known for its beach views, ample camping and hiking opportunities, and artsy vibes. Popular public park destinations include Andrew Molera State Park, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, all three of which have campgrounds.

When to go

Monterey is a year-round destination, with mild, wet winters and dry summers that don't get too hot but do see crowds. Whale-watching opportunities are best between January and March, when migratory whales pass along Monterey’s coast. The fall and spring shoulder seasons are good times to visit for warm weather and fewer crowds, though the Monterey Jazz Festival—held the third full weekend of September—draws tons of visitors.