The Bothy on the Bolinas Lagoon
House in Bolinas, CA
2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bath
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Free cancellationFull refund if you change your mind
High-end valuePrice for this property is higher than average in the area
About this house rental
The house sits on the Bolinas Lagoon with stunning views of the water and Mt. Tamalpais. It started its life as a summer retreat on the SF Bay around the turn of the century. These little houseboats were called Arks and they were moored near Belvedere and Tiburon. At some point in the mid-20th century, they were towed out to Bolinas and a number of them now sit on piers along Wharf Rd.
The Bothy is a 30-second walk to the beach and a 2-minute stroll to our downtown shops and restaurants where you can grab a delicious pizza at 11 Wharf or an Acai Bowl at Bovida.
The cottage features 1 bedroom and a comfortable living area with built-in seating and expansive views of the lagoon. There is a nice deck overlooking the lagoon with an outdoor shower. The galley kitchen has a small electric range with oven and has a lovely view of the breakers. There is no dishwasher.
There is parking on the street but there is no assigned spot. On the weekends in the summer, it can get crowded and it might take a few minutes to find a space and require a short walk (30 seconds..). Otherwise it’s typically easy to park in front of the house.
Laundry facilities are available in town at the local laundromat if needed.
The Bothy is a 30-second walk to the beach and a 2-minute stroll to our downtown shops and restaurants where you can grab a delicious pizza at 11 Wharf or an Acai Bowl at Bovida.
The cottage features 1 bedroom and a comfortable living area with built-in seating and expansive views of the lagoon. There is a nice deck overlooking the lagoon with an outdoor shower. The galley kitchen has a small electric range with oven and has a lovely view of the breakers. There is no dishwasher.
There is parking on the street but there is no assigned spot. On the weekends in the summer, it can get crowded and it might take a few minutes to find a space and require a short walk (30 seconds..). Otherwise it’s typically easy to park in front of the house.
Laundry facilities are available in town at the local laundromat if needed.
Amenities
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Balcony or Patio
Map of Bolinas, CA
$$$$
Ratings and reviews
5.0 / 5.0
Rustic but charming cottage, cannot beat the location, very comfortable. Other than a very noisy group of 6 couples staying at the cottage next door on our last night, we thoroughly enjoyed the cottage. Surprisingly good food in Bolinas too!
5.0 / 5.0
Such a cozy little place, perfect for two people. Loved the location, the way it was decorated and the ease of the rental process. The bed was comfortable, there were plenty of towels, there were lots of books and magazines and basic necessities were supplied. We spent three nights and hope to return in the winter for a different experience.
5.0 / 5.0
Second time staying. Will return.
5.0 / 5.0
Just what the Dr ordered. Relax, unwind and conect with nature. Loved watching the seals, birds and tide come in and out. Thank you for sharing your little piece of heaven.
5.0 / 5.0
The place is quaint with priceless views. The space is small, perfect for a couple. There are lots of windows to be able to take in the view as well as to keep track of the tides and countless bird activities. You are also less than 50 steps away from the beach.
One major issue with this place is parking. There is NO designated parking for this location and the parking gets full VERY fast during daytime. So if you drive away during daylight, even if it is for short period of time, keep in mind that you will struggle to find parking. Also sheriffs are out and many cars received parking tickets. Beware.
Because this place is designed like a tiny home, there are certain challenges to plan ahead. I would not plan to rely on cooking for food as the kitchen is tiny, but at the same time, restaurants close very early. Plan ahead. Also due to the piping being very bare, there are a lot of water drips after water use. If you are sensitive to this type of sound, I highly recommend bringing ear plugs or white noise machine. One amenity that was missing is body soap / hand soap (they provide only cheap shampoo and conditioner). Lastly, it can get a bit cold even in June, so bring thick clothing, but they provide two space heaters.
I would absolutely stay here again, though parking really was a bit of a mess. Absolutely gorgeous!
5.0 / 5.0
What a magnificent surprise our stay at The Bothy was for us. Unique to have the ocean meet the bay at the close of each day and the timing of the full moon’s light glimmer on the water which rose at high tide an easy 6 feet made our time most memorable. Thank you
5.0 / 5.0
Our stay in the bothy was just what was needed after loosing our beloved dog. There's comfort in watching the tide come in and out along with the wildlife that accompanies it. The cabin is clean, comfortable and has everything you need. So unique also! The history of the ‘arks’ that line this part of the lagoon is interesting and it's easy to imagine being out on the water when the tide surrounds you. Everything is easily walkable - the ocean just down the road with its long stretch of beach and the tiny town a couple blocks away with several restaurants and 2 markets. If it's misty you can curl up on the window seats and not miss a thing. If it’s clear you get a beautiful sunrise or can watch the full moon reflected in the lagoon as it rises. Magical! Jeff, the property manager is responsive and even brought us salt when we needed it (thanks Jeff!). We will return!
5.0 / 5.0
A truly magical spot - situated literally
in (above) the flow of the tides between the lagoon and the open sea. Clean, comfortable accommodations, stunning location, birds and seals galore, only two skips to town. An amazingly remote feel for a place just an hour from SF. Thank you - a great place to turn 60. We'll be back.
5.0 / 5.0
2nd time here, this time my husbands bday. We loved it even more this time than last ( which was a lot )
Beautiful to watch the tides, the seals playing, the light, wonderful walks on the beach right down the street. The beautiful spacious deck had us spending our last full day just lounging while right in the middle of the wildlife action. Such a sweet place to be. Also super comfy bed and fabulous shower!!
5.0 / 5.0
Absolutely 5-stars. Place is amazing - nice big living room with decks overlooking Bolinas lagoon. Incredible location to watch the ocean, tides and wildlife. Steps to town for coffee/pastries, groceries and the local library.
Was there on a stormy weekend and it is the perfect place to watch Mother Nature do her thing.
Cannot say enough good things and will definitely book again. Magical spot!
5.0 / 5.0
We were fortunate enough to get this spot for a special birthday, it was spectacular, so cosy, gorgeous, romantic. Very thoughtfully and artistically designed. Truly a treat in the variety of weather we had, sun, rain, etc. magical sunrise one morning over the lagoon. We can hardly wait to come back to this beautiful place, and the hosts were gracious and communicative. ☺️
5.0 / 5.0
So much fun to relax and watch the tide. This bothie is located perfectly to where you won't have others blocking your view. The locals are great too.
My wife and I plan to reserve another stay
5.0 / 5.0
Perfect for a solitary, peaceful, weekend on the water. Perfect sunrises from every angle and you can see the stars from your bed. So very peaceful and steps to everything.
5.0 / 5.0
Great spot over the water. Views all day…
5.0 / 5.0
So clean and well kept
5.0 / 5.0
Overlooking the lagoon, the inlet and the ocean…so beautiful
5.0 / 5.0
Such a pleasant and simple accommodation in a location where you cannot help but unwind.
1.0 / 5.0
Way too overpriced for what it is. Wasn’t even toilet paper provided.
5.0 / 5.0
easy and convenient: short walk to beach, equally short to 'town'
small size didn't bother us – it felt bigger with smart solutions and stylish interiors; we liked the maritime styling.
enjoyed watching the seals swimming in the lagoon.
thanks!
5.0 / 5.0
Accommodations were excellent. The location is convenient to the center of town and the restaurants. We really enjoyed our stay and would recommend it to a friend.
5.0 / 5.0
Great stay, very peaceful!,
The cabin needed some better towels, coffee and some dishes. thenk you
5.0 / 5.0
lovely property, fun to be there.
5.0 / 5.0
An amazing special place where you can totally relax and forget your cares.
Everything you need and very clean.
Interesting plumbing but wonderful shower. Watching the tide come in and out and the birds and seals enjoyable. Walking distance to the beach and town. A special bothie.
5.0 / 5.0
Great place and time!
5.0 / 5.0
The bothy was cozy, charming, and well stocked with essentials. The binoculars were a nice bonus to view the wildlife and ever changing tide and fog. We didn’t want to leave!
5.0 / 5.0
This was such a wonderful, charming, cozy little cottage over the lagoon that was perfect for me and my adult daughter. Bolinas is my happy place and this little cottage is a perfect representation of all that's good about Bolinas; quiet, beautiful, humble, authentic and just plain cozy.
5.0 / 5.0
If you want to stay on the water, in a modest, shabby chic cabin, with a view of the west side of Mt Tam, the lagoon, and the ocean, steps from the beach and around the corner from the ever amusing town of 'Bo' then this is your place. Tiny and wonderful in every way!
5.0 / 5.0
This is the second time my husband and I have stayed in this unique place. It was very quiet here this April. We did hear an occasional bird but enjoyed watching the majestic egrets and seagulls. At night we would watch the full moon rise over the coastal range casting beautiful reflections on the water. We could see the lights of Stinson Beach and San Francisco from the front room.
Although we brought coffee and there was a French press available, my husband enjoyed walking a couple blocks to the local coffee shop for his latte’ and scone or muffin.
5.0 / 5.0
Great place and had a magical few days with my wife. Great place to reconnect with your significant other.
5.0 / 5.0
Super cool little beach house right on the lagoon with large windows. Very relaxing just watching the birds, seals and tide going in and out. The house has everything needed. At low tide it is a beautiful walk around the point to Bolinas Beach and it's a quick walk to the quaint, rustic town for some good quality food.
5.0 / 5.0
I'm a single mom that takes 2 solo vacations per year. To hike, relax and spend time recharging. This place delivered big time. Location is spot on. Walkable to everything. And cute like you wouldn't believe. All the comforts of home, but on the water. You'll hear pounding surf and seagulls while sipping your wine on the porch. I wish I could give it 10 stars! I'm looking forward to returning.
5.0 / 5.0
We had a great time in the cozy bothy, being on the water is great for seeing loads of birds (and seals) and the location is perfect for walking around Bolinas or taking a quick drive out to a trailhead. We're definitely coming back.
5.0 / 5.0
My wife and I had a relaxing weekend at the Bothie on the Lagoon. The view and deck can't be beat. We were immersed in nature, soaking in the extremes of high and low tides as we ate a leisurely brunch on the deck in the morning sun and then observed the colors unfold on the mountain with cocktails at twilight. At high tide the lagoon was thriving with seals and birds and at low tide, a private sandy beach revealed itself below the deck which allowed us to climb down the ladder and walk to Kent Island. The house is modest and feels like a boathouse, but it is comfortable, clean, and well stocked. Its a short walk to Smileys and Coast Cafe for food, drinks, music. It's also a short walk to Bolinas Beach for some decent body boarding and surfing. The outdoor shower with hot water is a great way to clean up after some beach time. Finally, Kirsten "Kiki" was very accommodating and quick to respond, making our stay care free.
5.0 / 5.0
My wife and I enjoyed a lovely weekend in Bolinas at this property. We loved watching the sunrise each morning, and found the town relaxing and welcoming. Parking was easy to find except during the concerts in town on Saturdays. We did find the bed to be a little uncomfortable, however, the home was overall outstanding. Thanks again!
5.0 / 5.0
This place is dreamy! Already planning a way to get back here! Absolutely loved our stay!!
5.0 / 5.0
We went to this beautiful property, knowing that it was going to storm much of our getaway.
It was a wonderful place to be listening to the wind and rain in the cozy cottage.
We loved the vibe of the place and had a great time. Everything is within walking distance, and even with the storm, we manage to average 10 to 15 miles a day of walking and exploring.
The owners replied immediately prior to the trip when I had questions. They were flexible, understanding, and went above and beyond to help me when I forgot something.
I give this property the highest rating and hope to go back!
5.0 / 5.0
The Bothie offered precisely what we (my partner and I) were seeking: a quiet and cozy place where we felt encouraged to be still. This feeling was made possible by: the unobstructed view of the lagoon, town being a short walk away, and the cottage being clean and well-maintained. We'd visit again ^ _ ^
5.0 / 5.0
Everything about the bothie was even better than I expected. It's tiny but cozy, with so many thoughtful touches and beautiful pieces of furniture and art to look at inside. But most of the time is spent staring out at the incredible views over the water. It was a fun and unique place to stay, and felt like a break from modern life (though there was steady wifi if you need it). The bed was so comfy! Perfect place for a weekend away from it all - we can't wait to go back.
5.0 / 5.0
Wonderful place to spend a few cozy days and watch the tide come in and come out. If you're 6'3" or taller you may hit your head a couple times, other than that this place is perfection.
5.0 / 5.0
The Bothie offers a best-of-both-worlds experience, combining the coziness of a cottage with the exoticness of a boat. Firmly perched on pilons above the flowing tides of Bolinas Lagoon, its panoramic window offers endless views of the landscape and water, with San Francisco's city lights twinkling in the distance at night... It's truly magical being there. A hidden gem within the hidden gem of Bolinas; only an hour from SF but worlds away.
My wife and I come to Bolinas every year to hike Alemere Falls. The Bothie offered a comfortable reprieve after a big a day outdoors, as well as a big day indoors, enjoying the views of nature and getting lost in a book.
Praise to the host for sharing this amazing place with the rest of us.
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Bolinas?
The average price for a rental in Bolinas is $513 per night. This rental is $55 less expensive than the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Parking is not specified as an available amenity at The Bothy on the Bolinas Lagoon. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this house?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this house. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is The Bothy on the Bolinas Lagoon pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this house is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at The Bothy on the Bolinas Lagoon?
We found 3 amenities for this rental. This includes kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, and balcony or patio.
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