The best dog-friendly glamping near San Mateo

A home away from home, this hidden little gem is a great getaway from the hustle and bustle of the cities. Still located conveniently close to businesses of all kinds, including multiple downtown areas, HWY 17 and 85, 1 mile from Netflix. We are constantly working on our cottage style gardens, so there will always be gardens to enjoy for you. If you are interested in trying any of our homegrown veggies or fruits, just let us know. We love sharing our bounty. :) The space An actual hidden cottage tucked into a space full of vegetable and flower gardens. A six-chicken coop also runs the length of one side of the yard. There's also a private patio area to relax and unwind. The cottage is cute and simple, with an attic-like staircase leading to the upstairs bedroom. Enjoy your privacy in this unique and quaint space. P.S. This space may not be the best suited for elderly, disabled, or very young guests. Guest access The entire cottage is all yours, with a private entryway. We have an open patio area just outside the cottage with outdoor seating and tables. There is also a charcoal barbecue available upon request, as the hosts may be using it. It is a great spot to sit and unwind while watching and listening to the chickens, watching the sun set, and gazing. The garden area is shared with the hosts. Other things to note You, as our guest, always have privacy in the indoors of your space. The outside areas are mostly shared between my family, pets, and our guests, but the outdoor patio is all yours(we only access this when guests are present if we need to do some yard work). Enjoy yourselves, and be wary of doggies when pulling in the driveway! It is an in-laws quarters type house and shares one wall with the main house of the property. The door that connects the homes is completely sealed off and inaccessible to both parties. Please keep in mind that this is not a space suitable for very young, disabled, or elderly guests, due to the attic-like staircase mentioned above.

3. Either Way Hideaway

Relax and enjoy riverside views in our tranquil Santa Cruz Mountains guesthouse. Cozy up by the fire pit with a glass of local wine, or visit nearby wineries just a short drive away. Hike Big Basin, Castle Rock, and Henry Cowell State Parks. Close to historic downtown Boulder Creek and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, this guesthouse is the perfect base for exploring Santa Cruz County. Immerse yourself in nature while staying connected and comfortable. Either way, you’ll enjoy your stay! SCC Permit #251382

4. Patoonia Glamping @ Alum Rock Hills

29mi from San Mateo · 1 site · Lodging

(4)

Escape the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area with a stay at Patoonia, our charming mini silver home. Nestled just a 5-minute walk from the entrance of Upper Alum Rock Park and a 6-minute walk to the San Jose Country Club, this serene retreat offers the perfect blend of nature and convenience. Patoonia provides all the comforts of home, allowing you to relax and unwind. You will find everything you need from a fully stocked kitchen, a bathroom with hot shower and flushable toilet, dining area, a separated bedroom space and plenty of cabinets for storage. Surrounded by the peaceful Alum Rock hills, you'll find tranquility among the beautiful country club homes, mature trees, and occasional wildlife, including visits from deer and fawns. Despite its secluded feel, Patoonia is only a 5-minute drive from various amenities, including cafes, delis, gyms, markets, libraries, restaurants, and highway 680. Enjoy 100% privacy while being close to both nature and the city.

5. Quail Ridge Farm

33mi from San Mateo · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Camping & RV Parking on a Working Farm Near Santa Cruz Come camp on our peaceful working farm with easy access to incredible bike trails, beaches, and hikes in the Santa Cruz Mountains. We offer 3 spacious campsites where you can park your RV or camper van, or set up a tent. The sites are spread out with plenty of room for groups and families. For a more comfortable stay, you can also rent our solar-powered Airstream Base Camp. The property is a working farm with animals and a Christmas tree farm, and we’re currently planting olive trees and lavender fields. Guests are welcome to enjoy hikes directly on the property, including redwood forest trails and scenic views. Interested in hosting a gathering? Ask us about renting the entire property for private events like birthday parties or group lunches, with the option to camp overnight. Camp Details: 3 sites for RVs (various sizes) or tents No hookups Potable drinking water available for fill-ups No electricity at campsites Quiet, natural setting—perfect for unplugging A great spot for campers looking for nature, space, and a relaxed farm atmosphere close to Santa Cruz.

Public campgrounds near San Mateo

Cabin #16, awesome to hear the creek on the other side of the trees but very very muddy. I think it was the combination of low ground and water access close by.

28mi from San Mateo · 36 sites · in Big Basin Redwoods State Park

(69)

Big Basin Tent Cabins

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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Michael

June 2025

5 nights at Patoonia Glamping @ Alum Rock Hills

Super kind host, great place to stay. Good price. Would stay again

m

mk

January 2025

Weekend Trip to Patoonia Glamping @ Alum Rock Hills

Patoonia is such a cute and cozy site. Warm bed, hot shower, and fully equipped kitchen! Faye did an amazing job with all the small details in the site (i.e. welcoming decorations, soaps, extra blankets, heaters, cooking supplies and seasonings, and even toothpastes! It is in a beautiful and quiet neighborhood near all the hot spots in SJ. Faye is an excellent host with lightning fast communication and was very kind. She reached out to make sure all my questions were asked and had everything I needed (even offered to lend stuff to me from her home).

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Megan

December 2024

With pets

4 nights at Patoonia Glamping @ Alum Rock Hills

Well, now I want an airstream, so thanks for that Patoonia 😆 Everything was exactly as pictured, it was not far from anything, but didn't feel like it was in the middle of San Jose either. The host was very responsive, and the place had everything we needed.

Annie

November 2024

With kids

Weekend Trip to Patoonia Glamping @ Alum Rock Hills

We had such a wonderful time at Patoonia!! The camper is clean and well stocked with all the essentials. Bed was super comfortable and we got a great night sleep. The host is wonderful / so friendly and welcoming!

The best campsites available this weekend near San Mateo

The Cottage Barn

33mi from San Mateo · 1 site · Lodging

Enjoy the lovely setting of this romantic Los Gatos Mountain retreat in nature. Set above the clouds with expansive views, privacy, cozy fireplace, & quiet setting. Can accommodate 4 people with a queen bed in the loft & full-size sleeper sofa. Extra bedding is included when booked for 4 guests, no extra fee for up to 4 guests. The loft is standing height & very cozy. Located in a rural mountain setting away from it all. Beautiful vineyard & mountain views, spectacular sunsets & stargazing at night. Full kitchen, bathroom with soaking tub & shower, washer & dryer, living room with sleeper sofa, and loft bedroom with queen bed. Perched amongst a vineyard with fabulous views and stargazing. The cottage is a private space situated on our property in the Los Gatos Mountains. Please be aware that we are located in a rural Mountain setting and are away from most stores and other resources. The journey is not for the faint of heart, although the reward upon arrival is breathtaking. Arrival prior to Sunset is *highly* recommended for ease of access. We are a fully operational vineyard. As tempting as sampling the grapes may be, please resist picking the grapes. This takes away from our crop and can impact the plant. We utilize minimally invasive practices for optimal fruit quality, which in turn means every grape matters. Please do not pick the grapes, thank you! We are located in a rural mountain setting. Please allow additional time to access the property. During heavy storms and heat waves, we do experience power outages. We will be sure to work with you in unique situations such as this, so you are comfortable. We have several candles as well as a few flashlights on hand in case of a power outage. We are happy to build a fire for you if you don't know how, and can give you some basic tips to keep it going. Please note we are a fully operational farm in a rural setting. This can lead to forest critters visiting the space. Please be aware and conscious of your food scraps, and please do not leave doors open to help avoid pests.

Redwood Basin

40mi from San Mateo · 1 site · Lodging

(131)

Family-owned since the 1960's my parents chose this ridgetop location on 10 acres for its beauty, serenity, bio-diversity, and amazing peaceful healing energy. The main house is called Rainbow Ridge where a double rainbow appears across the skyline on occasion. We have decided to share this land with conscious folks who want to retreat to the woods from the hustle and bustle but be close to all the action and have all the creature comforts of home with a camping vibe. We have one private site with a glamorous A Frame cabin and a modern tiny home and a tiny retro trailer. The site comes as one single package and is exclusive to you and your group! Nestled on its own private 3-acre redwood and oak forest, leading down to a creek. The site is located just 4 miles (10 min drive ) from Soquel Village and just 5 miles from the beach at Capitola. The site offers: - A 20ft modern container home with one queen sofa bed, large screen with Apple TV, kitchen, patio, fridge, microwave, cooktop, shower, and toilet. - A custom, outdoor kitchen, and bar for entertaining with gas BBQ, fridge freezer, sink with hot and cold filtered water, Sonos sound system. - Large gas fire pit and seating area. - One A Frame eco cabin with option for one king size day bed OR two singles, A twin mattress can also fit in the cabin when in the two singles configuration. The cabin has electricity, fan and heating for colder nights. - One very cute retro airstream style 1950's trailer with a twin bed for a couple or one person. - Space for 1-2 additional tents. For groups of 8 or more and special events please contact us so we can discuss the possibilities. - Onsite you should find all the basic amenities from home including all bedding, towels, kitchenware, cooking utensils, dining ware, herbs and spices, cleaning products, gas for the BBQ and fire pit is included etc. There are a few things you should bring: Food, drinks, ice and fun! The site looks down into a private and secluded redwood and oak forest with trails for small hikes into the redwood fairy circles or all the way down to the creek. The glamping site is on a sunny flat area surrounded by steep terrain up to a ridgeline and down to the creek. The creek is accessible although the final route requires a rope down so may not be suitable for everyone. Within 15-20 min drive you will find almost all major attractions in the Santa Cruz area including The Mistery Spot, Nisene Marks State Forest, Capitola Pier, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, and many famous surf breaks from Capitola to The Point, The Hook, Steamer Lane and many more., as well as many amazing mountain bike trails. There are also several Santa Cruz Mountain wineries to explore in a 3- 5 mile radius. Further afield you will find Monterey Bay Aquarium and the coastal beaches north up to San Francisco Bay ( 1 hour 30 mins north) and down to Big Sur about 1 hour 20 mins south. We ask all our visitors to be respectful of the environment, our wildlife, and our neighbors. Please drive slowly and respect the quiet times: between 9.30 pm and 8.30 am. We check all our guests in and provide a quick tour. We can offer a number of additional amenities and services including shopping, stocking up on your favorite supplies, catering, romantic packages and special picnics on the Rainbow Ridge, and much more, so please just ask about all the possibilities.

Masoods Lodge

32mi from San Mateo · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

(2)

Masoods Lodge, located in the beautiful redwood forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains! Perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful spot to relax close to nature. The year-round ideal climate makes this charming, enchanted property the perfect weekend getaway. Enjoy peace and quiet with great views from furnished individual cottages surrounded by redwood trees and sparkling mountain stream providing a full nature experience. Sit out and enjoy the stars at night. This property offers an abundance of fern and wildflowers showcasing their natural beauty. Masoods lodge has a "log cabin feel", with a stylish flair, and features wood paneling, open beam ceilings, and cozy fireplaces. Imagine relaxing on your private deck, enjoying a BBQ with family and friends, surrounded by redwood trees, either in sunny summers or during cold winters. All large units – living room, bedroom, kitchen - that accommodate from two to four persons. All units come with a ﬁreplace and electric heat, and are completely equipped for your every need. Also included are spacious single rooms with morning coffee, a microwave oven, and a small refrigerator, with complete privacy. Planning a wedding, retreat, family reunion, or another special event? Masoods lodge can host your next event. The possibilities are endless. If you have an idea to host your next event and would like to utilize the lodge, we would love to help coordinate and host your event! The lodge is a 30-minute drive away from Santa Cruz beaches, a 45-minute drive from Silicon Valley, and a one-hour drive from San Francisco. There are many hiking trails, parks, and attractions close by.

Venture Retreat Center

24mi from San Mateo · 12 sites · Tents, Lodging

(2)

Nestled among ancient redwoods at the end of winding Eden West Road, along the edge of Little Butano Creek, Venture is a NorCal hidden gem. Our roots are in the 1960s counterculture movement and we've long served as a haven for spiritual exploration, self-discovery, and personal growth. Just an hour’s drive from San Francisco, San Jose, and Santa Cruz, our special spot is the most serene escape when you're seeking respite, relaxation, or reconnection with nature. The campus offers a mix of dispersed charming cabins, a serene yurt, camping sites, and glamping tents. You can immerse yourself in the lush forest that surrounds us, soak up the sun, and explore creek-side beauty. Gather around the warmth of an evening fire or drum circle and enjoy the dusk and starshine coming on. Just down the street is Pescadero proper. A sweet little spot (nine hundred strong) and California coast perfection. You'll find gorgeous scenery, local food and drink, neat landmarks, beautiful places to hike and explore, fun galleries, and really, really good people. Ask us for our favorite spots, we’re more than happy to share!

The Secret Gardens by the Bay

98%

(318)

49mi from San Mateo · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

✨ 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

Star Host camping experiences near San Mateo

Dreamy California Coast Airstreams

98%

(94)

15mi from San Mateo · 4 sites · Lodging

This is private 30 acres property overlooking the stunning Tunitas Beach and Pacific ocean from a breathtaking ocean cliff view. Stunning sunrise and sunset greet you in these fully equipped Airstreams. Fully loaded with all the amenities to make your glamping experience perfect. Fire pit, BBQ, Pizza oven, A/C, Heater, full kitchen with all necessary cookware and serving dishes to cook inside the airstream or on the BBQ or Pizza oven outside. Comes will full bathroom with hot shower. Truly a rare and memorable experience, located within 9 mins of Half Moon Bay shopping. Beach access short walk or drive.

Santa Cruz Mountains Staycation

33mi from San Mateo · 1 site · Lodging

(73)

Located in the peaceful, forested Chemeketa Park neighborhood, our Airstream Caravel is situated in a perfect resting spot for road cyclists, mountain bikers, Santa Cruz surfers, and winery fans looking to recharge before their next adventure! The Airstream is conveniently located on our driveway property, so you'll have easy access to-and-from the quaint and cute downtown area of Los Gatos, nearby hiking trails, and scenic routes along Highway 17.

Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream

15mi from San Mateo · 5 sites · Lodging

(80)

On 9 private acres overlooking the stunning Tunitas Beach and Pacific ocean from a breathtaking cliff top view. Stunning sunrises and sunset greet you in this fully equipped new 2023 Airstream. Fully loaded with all the amenities to make your glamping experience perfect. Fire pit, outside BBQ, outside griddle, A/C and fully stocked kitchen. Comes will full bathroom with shower. Truly a rare experience and located within 10 mins of Half Moon Bay shopping. Beach access short walk or drive.

Moon Crest Valley Ranch

9.6mi from San Mateo · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging

(21)

Join us to host your next getaway at the beautiful Moon Crest Valley Ranch. A perfect spot for intimate get togethers that immerse you in nature and offer breathtaking views and countless activities on over 45 acres. This is a magical spot for our family and we can’t wait to share it with yours. You will be the exclusive campers on the property after booking and the owners will reside in their house. Potential activities on site include Private Hiking Trails, Breathtaking Ocean Views, Bocce Ball, Wiffle Ball, Golf Chipping, Soccer, and more... Guests are responsible for bringing their own camping gear. Of note, the main campsite is 1/2 mile hike from parking and has a portable camping toilet setup. One of our favorite spaces is the barn area which has a fire pit, multiple seating areas with views, an oversized picnic table, bocce ball, a grill and even a TV. This is a must hangout spot during the evenings for many guests before they hike back up to the campsite to retire for the night. There is also a portable toilet at the barn for guest convenience. Moon Crest Valley Ranch is located less than 10 minutes from the beautiful Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay and 15 minutes from scenic Main Street Half Moon Bay. We are also only 1/2 mile away from the Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve Trailhead that has an additional 30+ miles of gorgeous trails to explore. Bring your hiking shoes or bike!

Kings Mountain Camp w/ ocean views

7.2mi from San Mateo · 5 sites · Lodging

(98)

Breathe deep in nature on our 10-acre property on Kings Mountain, California hillside. Our generously sized Safari-style tents offer a unique blend of comfort and adventure. Each tent has beds, down comforters, crisp cotton linens, lights, and more. Outdoor and indoor furniture and little touches that will make your stay unique. The property is located 30min from SFO, 40min from San Francisco, 30min from Palo Alto, 20 min from Half Moon Bay. Each tent is perched on a sturdy wooden platform and features a fully furnished deck, providing a cozy space to relax and soak in the breathtaking ocean (Half Moon Bay views) and forest views (Kings Mountain). All tents include a mini fridge and a stove, ideal for light cooking, intimate fireside storytelling, and warmth during cool days. We suggest you bring easy-to-prep food, drinks, warm clothes, hiking shoes, and a beanie, as it can get chilly without notice. Your designated parking space is a 6-minute walk from the campsite (downhill on arrival, then back uphill (steep) in the forest), so we recommend traveling light. Our campsite is nestled within the same property as our charming little farm. Our goats roam the land all day and may visit you for pets and nuzzles. They are gentle, but please do not feed or let them inside the tent. Recharge from the day with a hot shower. Grab your fresh towels from your tent and go to your outdoor allocated bathhouses, where you’ll find an indoor shower and well-appointed restrooms. They are nicely lit and stocked with bath products. A sink area is available for dish clean-up, and a bbq/picnic area. KM is famous for its hiking and biking trails nestled amongst the redwoods. The closest is a 15-minute walk from our campsite, and others are within a 15-minute car ride. Tent 01 (180sqft) accommodates 3 people in a queen-size bed and a daybed. Tent 02 (210sqft) accommodates 4 people: two in a queen-size bed and two in a bunk bed and an outdoor suspended net Tent 03 (210sqft) accommodates 4 people: two in a queen-size bed and two in a twin bed + daybed and an outdoor propane stove, hangout deck Recently added: an apartment w a hot tub Kids under the age of 8 are not allowed. An adult must accompany minors under 21 YO.

The best dog-friendly campsites near San Mateo

Either Way Hideaway

Relax and enjoy riverside views in our tranquil Santa Cruz Mountains guesthouse. Cozy up by the fire pit with a glass of local wine, or visit nearby wineries just a short drive away. Hike Big Basin, Castle Rock, and Henry Cowell State Parks. Close to historic downtown Boulder Creek and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, this guesthouse is the perfect base for exploring Santa Cruz County. Immerse yourself in nature while staying connected and comfortable. Either way, you’ll enjoy your stay! SCC Permit #251382

Patoonia Glamping @ Alum Rock Hills

29mi from San Mateo · 1 site · Lodging

(4)

Escape the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area with a stay at Patoonia, our charming mini silver home. Nestled just a 5-minute walk from the entrance of Upper Alum Rock Park and a 6-minute walk to the San Jose Country Club, this serene retreat offers the perfect blend of nature and convenience. Patoonia provides all the comforts of home, allowing you to relax and unwind. You will find everything you need from a fully stocked kitchen, a bathroom with hot shower and flushable toilet, dining area, a separated bedroom space and plenty of cabinets for storage. Surrounded by the peaceful Alum Rock hills, you'll find tranquility among the beautiful country club homes, mature trees, and occasional wildlife, including visits from deer and fawns. Despite its secluded feel, Patoonia is only a 5-minute drive from various amenities, including cafes, delis, gyms, markets, libraries, restaurants, and highway 680. Enjoy 100% privacy while being close to both nature and the city.

Happy Garden Glamper

17mi from San Mateo · 1 site · Lodging

Find your garden escape in our lovingly converted camper van, a rustic-retro retreat nestled in a lush garden. The van has all the essentials: a comfy bed, private shower/toilet, and kitchenette. Step outside to your personal oasis with a fire pit for starry nights, a hammock for lazy afternoons, and an outdoor kitchen surrounded by an edible garden. Tucked into a quiet neighborhood, you're just minutes from redwood trails (ebikes available). It’s the perfect peaceful base for garden lovers and glampers. Here’s a breakdown of your private glamping setup and the overall property so you can feel right at home. Your Private Camper Van This is your cozy, self-contained space. While compact, it’s thoughtfully laid out with everything you need: • Sleeping Area: A comfortable full-size bed, perfect for two. • Private Bathroom: A compact, all-in-one wet bath with a toilet and hot shower. • Kitchenette: Equipped with a gas cooker, fridge, and microwave for preparing simple meals and snacks. • Climate Control: Stay comfortable year-round with both heating and AC. Your Dedicated Outdoor Oasis The magic continues right outside your door in a space that’s exclusively yours to enjoy: • Fire Pit & Seating Area: The perfect spot for cozy evenings, stargazing, and making memories. • Outdoor Kitchen: For those who love to cook al fresco, there’s an additional gas stove. • Relaxation Zone: A comfy hammock is strung up for lazy afternoons with a book. • Edible Garden: Feel free to snip fresh herbs to elevate your camp-side meals! About the Property Layout The camper van is situated in its own private, designated space at the front of the property. • Our Home: We (your hosts) live in the main house with our young son and small, friendly dog. • Back Cottage: There is also a separate cottage at the back of the property that may be occupied by other quiet residents or guests. Your camper van and its dedicated outdoor area are exclusively for your use. While we share a driveway, we are very respectful of guests’ privacy and space. You can expect a peaceful and welcoming environment during your stay. You’ll have your own private, self-contained glamping setup to enjoy!

Quail Ridge Farm

33mi from San Mateo · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Camping & RV Parking on a Working Farm Near Santa Cruz Come camp on our peaceful working farm with easy access to incredible bike trails, beaches, and hikes in the Santa Cruz Mountains. We offer 3 spacious campsites where you can park your RV or camper van, or set up a tent. The sites are spread out with plenty of room for groups and families. For a more comfortable stay, you can also rent our solar-powered Airstream Base Camp. The property is a working farm with animals and a Christmas tree farm, and we’re currently planting olive trees and lavender fields. Guests are welcome to enjoy hikes directly on the property, including redwood forest trails and scenic views. Interested in hosting a gathering? Ask us about renting the entire property for private events like birthday parties or group lunches, with the option to camp overnight. Camp Details: 3 sites for RVs (various sizes) or tents No hookups Potable drinking water available for fill-ups No electricity at campsites Quiet, natural setting—perfect for unplugging A great spot for campers looking for nature, space, and a relaxed farm atmosphere close to Santa Cruz.

Charming Hidden Cottage