Entire home

Beautiful and Lush Hidden Wisteria Getaway

Cottage in Alameda with kitchen and balcony

Photo gallery for Beautiful and Lush Hidden Wisteria Getaway

Terrace/patio
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Property grounds
Beach
1 bedroom, iron/ironing board, WiFi, bed sheets
Escape to the charming Garden Getaway Bungalow, a circa 1890s carriage house in Alameda's quiet neighborhood. This tastefully appointed guest spot is perfect for a peaceful retreat or extended stay. Just walking distance from Park Street shopping district, you can enjoy antique shops, cafes and restaurants nearby.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 270 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor Space

Add dates for prices

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

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.

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car recommended
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Ice maker
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Stereo
  • TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Patio

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed
  • Note from host: You will be asked to leave with no fees refunded

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In the city center
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • Near an outlet shopping mall
  • Near the bay
  • Near the marina

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Property does not allow children
  • Unit size: 750 square feet

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

This property does not allow children
Note from host: There is a non-childproof pond on the property.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
You will be asked to leave with no fees refunded

Important information

You need to know

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

A car is recommended for transportation to and from this property

Property is also known as

Beautiful Lush Hidden Wisteria Cottage
Beautiful and Lush Hidden Wisteria Getaway Cottage
Beautiful and Lush Hidden Wisteria Getaway Alameda
Beautiful and Lush Hidden Wisteria Getaway Cottage Alameda

About the neighborhood

Map
Alameda, CA

What's nearby

  • Oakland Arena - 5 min drive - 6.8 km
  • Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum - 5 min drive - 6.8 km
  • Jack London Square - 7 min drive - 5.0 km
  • Oakland Convention Center - 8 min drive - 8.2 km
  • Fox Theater - 9 min drive - 10.4 km

Getting around

  • Fruitvale Station - 3 min drive
  • Coliseum Station - 7 min drive
  • Oakland Intl. Airport (OAK) - 15 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Lucky 13 - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Burger King - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Jack in the Box - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪KFC - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Park Station - ‬4 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Beautiful and Lush Hidden Wisteria Getaway pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this 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?

Check-out 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 mi (10 km) of San Francisco Bay, Jack London Square, and USS Hornet Museum. Lake Merritt and Oakland Museum of California are also within 6 mi (10 km).

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Beautiful and Lush Hidden Wisteria Getaway Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 317 out of 327 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 9 out of 327 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 327 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 327 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 327 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

Great place. Super quiet
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Megan M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gorgeous

The property was gorgeous. It’s clear the owners put a lot of thought and love into it.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Arlene L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful work trip

The perfect spot to unwind and prep for the following day!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

David S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a great place for a couple to stay in Alameda. The cottage is beautifully appointed, quiet, and within easy walking distance of the Park Street shops. Safeway and Trader Joes are a five minute drive away. The adjoining gardens, which guests are free to use, are lovely. The cottage comes supplied with all the basics. We stayed there for 10 days and would definitely come again. John and Arthur were gracious hosts.
Stayed 9 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

mark b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Visiting mom

Very nice place. Next time we come back to visit my mom I’ll be sure to try and stay here again.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kent J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great spot in the heart of Alameda

Perfect location for a business trip. Everything you need. Unique Asian garden atmosphere. Be sure to take some time to relax and take it in.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Arthur L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wisteria Cottage, Alameda, CA

John and Arthur were hospitable and offered a peaceful respite in a great location. Their bungalow garden is private and a delight.
Stayed 12 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Wanda F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best Little Cottage in Alameda Ca

This cottage is an absolutely Beautiful peaceful place to stay. For less than a hotel you can have your own private retreat among the hundreds of orchids, wisteria, Koi pond, and canaries. This is my favorite place to stay!!!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michael K., Columbus Ohio

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A forest island in suburbia

Wonderful stay. Author and John were marvelous hosts. We hope we can be return guests for future visits.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Denise M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful

Quiet & lovely
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Debra B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful!

Beautiful place. Kind and helpful hosts. I hope to return some day.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Vicky R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely garden cottage

Relaxing environment. The gardens and ponds are amazing . Great setting for your morning coffee. The hosts were very friendly and accommodating. Would definitely come back!
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Naomi Kitty D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Do not hesitate to book this spot!

We were in SFO for business reasons; and decided to check out the east bay. We almost didn't book this spot since it looked a bit small. Not only was it plenty big -- but we were DELIGHTED to stay here. The hosts are super sweet; the place is cute; and the garden is gorgeous. Do yourself a favor, and stay here if possible!
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alison P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy cottage

Such a peaceful place to come back to after the hustle and bustle (all that Bay Area has to offer ) Exceptional outdoor space with such amazing and talented hosts. Enjoyed talking to Arthur and John about the history of the property . Thoroughly enjoyed our stay . Highly recommend .
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Barbara S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely the most amazing and relaxing experience.!

The owners Arthur & John thought of everything to make your stay a memorable one. The gardens are spectacular and enjoyed the canary’s on site. Truly a wonderful, caring and generous couple. Hope to see you both again. Hugs Barb & Dennis- Albuquerque NM
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

8/10 Good

Scott D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful, clean place, amazing neighborhood.

This accomodation was a an amazing retreat for my 5 day work trip. Be a responsible steward of the envirinment, or you might get a knock on the door. It is clear that the owners truly want the guests to have a wonderful and cozy experience.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Morgan H., Des Moines, Iowa

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

An Amazing Stay

This property is absolutely gorgeous, it is truly a one of a kind place to stay. John and Arthur were fantastic hosts and were so helpful and generous with their knowledge of Alameda/San Francisco. There were so many great local businesses right down the road that we had walked to every day. I have been talking about it nonstop! If only we could have stayed longer!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rowena P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming cottage with a tranquil outdoor space

This was the second time I've stayed at the cottage. It is my first choice for lodging when I visit Alameda. It is located within walking distance to homes of different family members. The hosts are welcoming, and having access to the backyard with its trees, plants, and koi pond is wonderful.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Si S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quiet place, perfect for relaxation

Place was a quiet place to work and relax. I arrived past midnight and John spent the time to walk me around the property. In addition, I left something after I checked out and they were kind enough to look for it and give it to my sister.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

David C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Dave C

Nice small cottage inside and out with a beautiful garden. Friendly hosts in the main house. Close walking distance to restaurants etc. Alameda is quaint and safe.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Melissa W., New Richmond

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mother/Daughter vacation!

My adult daughter and I spent five days in the San Francisco area. We had a wonderful vacation and saw some fantastic sites. John and Arthur are fabulous hosts. They have a lovely cottage where we felt welcome and secure. Their gardens are amazing! They shared tips with us on unique sites to visit. It was a delightful getaway!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Oasis in Alameda

What an amazing getaway! From the beautiful pond with fish to the comfortable bed in a safe neighborhood this is the place to stay! Our main goal was to see the Golden Gate Bridge which was an easy ferry ride away. John and Arthur (owners) were the perfect hosts and gave us so many tips of where to go to eat and how to get around. This space had everything you need and more. Forever grateful.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Russell S., Wilmington

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Zen for the senses

Very cute place located in a nice neighborhood in Alameda. Tucked in the back of the property, well away from the street, behind a pair of enclosures, nestled amongst gardens and a koi pond, trickling fountains and lush trees. Time to take a breath away from the day? Here it is.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Crystal W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hidden Oasis

Loved loved loved my stay at this hidden oasis in the heart of Alameda. I was in town to lay a family member to rest but the peace I found here made my travel bearable. I loved hearing the water from the pond, seeing a multitude of different birds frequent the space, and the fireplace added a nice touch. I recommend this listing for anyone that needs to getaway in their own backyard. Thank you Arthur and John!! Peace and blessings
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Dennis C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Walden Pond

This is ideal for anything from a serious meditation practice to a simple, quiet get-away from the sights and noise of the big city. The blend of Craftsman and rustic Japanese styles is expertly designed, built, and proudly cared for by the owners John and Arthur. Wondrous details abound. It's as pleasant to be outdoors as it is cozy inside. The property sits in a pleasantly bohemian neighborhood, a 3-minute walk from the downtown main street of Alameda. It, too, is slightly funky and old fashioned, but with lots of pleasant activity. More restaurants than you can count, and if you like Asian food, you have an embarrassment of riches. Also a handful of upscale dining establishments. I hope to return many times in the future.
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2021