“I am a Cottage in a very small beach town. I am your home — and will comfort you — while you seek out the authentic things that will make your heart sing, and your mind remember fondly.” ~ The Green Cottage on Morro Bay
We love that our visitors say wonderful things about the Cottage. That says a lot about the Cottage, but even more about our guests.
We know that people read reviews because these 3rd party opinions help you make your travel decisions. The words of past guests, in a way, become the essential social proof that the Green Cottage is worth your time and money. We work hard to earn and keep that trust.
We also know that it’s not just the 5-Star review that is important to you, but how many there are over a long period of time. That’s why we are so very proud of our 280 5-Star reviews and 2 4-Star reviews, since 2009.
VRBO/Homeaway: 211 5-Stars, 2 4-Stars.
Flipkey: 59 5-Star reviews.
Airbnb: 10 5-Star reviews.
The following reviews are just a sample of what we have received. Other than shortening some of them, they have not been edited.
“We breathe a sigh of contentment when we arrive!”
I’m a retired biologist and my husband is a professional photographer. This is our 4th consecutive year staying at the Green Cottage, each time for several months. It’s the perfect getaway for us. The bird life is abundant. We can easily spot more than a dozen species while sipping our morning coffee on the deck, literally just a few feet from the water. The clouds here are extraordinary. The interplay of light and clouds with this gorgeous landscape takes my breath away. Then there’s the cottage itself which has all the comforts of home, and then some! There’s beautiful original artwork, extremely comfortable furniture, and if you enjoy cooking as we do, a wonderfully equipped kitchen. It’s obvious that Sioux, the cottage keeper, loves this place and keeps it in immaculate condition. Each time we arrive, we breathe a sigh of contentment. Truly a special place! We have already planned to return next year. — Irene S., Wisconsin, January – June, 2020
“Beautiful”
This was such a beautiful place, right by the water, very clean and well taken care of. The nice, small touches of care makes a big difference in your experience. I strongly suggest this place and we plan to make a yearly visit. –Serkan E., November 2019, Airbnb
“5-Star Everything”
I’m pretty picky about traveling. I’m the type of person who always asks to move hotel rooms because of dust, noise, etc. This place is not only immaculately clean but the PERFECT vacation getaway. The little cottage sits right on the bay so you can take your laptop, breakfast, coffee right out on to the patio and it feels like you have the WHOLE bay to yourself. It’s the perfect size for 2-3 people who are looking to hide away from the city for a weekend. Pandora is also the most wonderful host — she anticipates your needs before you yourself even become aware of them! This place is definitely bookmarked as a treasure. — Alexandra L., October 2019, VRBO
“The reviews are spot on!”
What else can I say? Everything written in the past reviews was spot on! It is just the perfect place to stay, especially if you have a soft spot in your heart for Los Osos/Baywood Park area, which we do. Thank you Pandora for making our 34th wedding anniversary the best!!!! — Richard G., September 2019, Airbnb
“Always a fresh experience!
We stay at the Green Cottage at least once a year, and we never tire of being there. The weather, the serenity, the views, and the available activities would be enough to lure one to the region, but the Green Cottage makes it so comfortable and homey that one can just loll around, staring at the expansive views, watching an ever updated movie collection or doing just nothing at all. Each time we find new experiences, and Pandora knows all the details. Need hiking trail? Want to shop? Need a food recommendation in town? What tours are available? What winery is fun? She’s the local encyclopedia for guests. We will return in September for one more escape from city traffic, noise, and heat, and we look forward to more exploration with the promise of comfort, warmth, and a sense of being at home when we return at the end of the day. Thanks, Pandora, Gary and Sioux, for offering such a treasure to the public! — Sally R., August 2019, VRBO
“Unbelievably perfect in every way.”
As we opened the front door we were awestruck by the immediate view of Morro Bay, the low hills and far off Morro Rock. The decor is an eclectic ménage of antiques, Asian collectibles and world travel treasures with a dash of modern and contemporary elements all tastefully arranged to draw your eye to it. The quiet peaceful environment allows for total relaxation. However, activities and events abound minutes from the cottage. The cottage is amply equipped with kitchen and BBQ equipment. There are cozy throws to keep you warm, 100’s of DVDs, and nature to entertain you. I highly recommend this vacation cottage for a weekend or a month. You will not be disappointed. —Mandy, July 2019, Airbnb
“Beauty, Beach & Renewal”
Thanks to the spectacular setting and impeccable care of owner Pandora and cottage keeper Sioux. The Green Cottage offers a perfect combination of beauty, nourishing solitude, and comfort … Immaculately kept, beautifully appointed, quiet, and right on the southern edge of Morro Bay, the cottage has stunning vistas of water, dunes, mountains, and sky from the kitchen and deck. While we make most of our own meals in the well-equipped kitchen, there are plenty of local options when we want to eat out. Nearby state park Montaña de Oro offers easy to challenging hikes overlooking dunes, ocean, and coves. Sweet Springs Nature Preserve is a 10-minute walk away. There is a lovely Farmers Market in Baywood (a 5-minute drive) providing fresh vegetables and baked goods. The Ralphs, Rite Aid and Ace Hardware in Los Osos handle any practical needs. Though we tend to stay at the cottage and local environs, you can easily access vibrant San Luis Obispo (which has a Trader Joe’s among many other shopping options) and scenic towns up the coast such as Cambria and San Simeon. This last visit (our fourth), I was in desperate need of renewal. The moment I stepped into the cottage I relaxed. After spending hours soaking in the ever-changing views on the deck, sleeping long and well in the comfy king-sized bed, and enjoying films each night, thanks to the excellent DVD collection, I returned to my life completely restored! — Karen P. June 2019, VRBO
“A small piece of heaven with a beach”
I have been visiting the Green Cottage once or twice a year alone, or with guests for years. It is captivating. From its squeaky-clean appearance to the soft linens, gourmet kitchen stocked with both standard and unusual cooking spices and condiments, the cottage welcomes you for a visit you’ll never forget … The cottage is a place to rest, relax, pause from the busy life one leads … Stay once, you’ll come again. — Jayne C., February 2019, Flipkey
“A Magical Getaway Cottage”
We thoroughly enjoyed our short stay at the Green Cottage and hope to return again for longer … the listing description and photos are amazing, but the reality was even better. Our every need was anticipated with unbelievable attention to detail. The cottage was immaculately clean … fragrant flowers fresh from the garden brightened every room … You can’t help but get a peaceful night’s rest in the comfortable bed with high-quality linens. We highly recommend … this unique and enchanting cottage. — Lacy H., June 2018, Flipkey
“Wonderful place to unwind and relax!”
We have now stayed at the Green Cottage five or six times — we’ve lost count! Every time we go there we enjoy the place more and more. The cottage is clean, well equipped, and comfortable. Plenty of clean towels and linens, the fridge is stocked with coffee and yogurt, and there are all kinds of teas in the pantry. There are always freshly picked flowers on the counter when we arrive. And the view? When you walk into the kitchen and see that view – amazing! Never fails to take our breath away … Fantastic place. Five stars. — Michael M., July 2018, VRBO
“The most charming cottage on the coast”
I have to confess this is not my first time at the Little Green Cottage, so I’m a bit of an old hand, but it never ceases to amaze me how magical it is each and every time. You could search far and wide and not find a more perfect place for a relaxing and beautiful stay on the coast. — Jamie C., November 2017, Flipkey
“Perfect”
Just be sure to set aside plenty of time to just sit and enjoy this cozy cottage and the beautiful views from the deck. We didn’t want to leave. Thank you Pandora and Gary for sharing your home with us. — Christine P., August 2017, VRBO
“Wonderful location”
What a wonderful location. The neighborhood is great, so charming and peaceful. Easy walk to get coffee, easy bike ride to great dining or a quick spin around the sights … The space is wonderful, very roomy, comfortable and easy to sleep. The kitchen is well appointed, I can’t think of a single thing we looked for that we didn’t find … We’ll definitely be back! — Cybele, August 2017, Airbnb
“Back Again!”
My husband and I have been to Green Cottage many times over the years. This past summer we spent 3 weeks there, and now we find ourselves returning next week for yet another stay! The cottage has truly become our home-away-from-home. We are drawn there by the peace and tranquility of the bay, as well as the endless variety of things to do … the Green Cottage is really lovely inside and out, and the hosts furnish everything that one could want or need, providing a wonderful place to relax and unwind. Thank you, Pandora and Gary, for sharing your little peace of paradise! Betsy M., June 2017, VRBO
“Perfect Little Cottage”
This was a wonderful cottage on the water to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Beautiful sunsets, quiet mornings sitting on the porch overlooking the bay, often only the birds to hear. Well supplied and decorated. Highly recommend. — Doug K., November 2016, VRBO
“Our weekend get away”
You could not ask for a more magical weekend! The hosts are totally focused on your every comfort. Gourmet coffee, breakfast items, cozy and comfy furnishings, gorgeous art work, books, tons of movies and I think I counted no less than FIVE fresh flower arrangements!!!!! Have never stayed anywhere so close to the water! We simply could not have had a better time!!!!! — Suzanne C., August 2016, VRBO
“Great cottage in a perfect location”
My husband and I were lucky enough to experience the Green Cottage for a “way too short” visit of three nights. The cottage was everything as advertised – spotlessly clean, and completely furnished with lots of nice homey touches … The fact that the cottage is located in a residential area, away from the touristy area, but close enough for easy access, was a definite bonus … The notebooks provided with information on restaurants, local attractions and local history were another welcome touch. We look forward to returning to the Green Cottage. — Bari L., March 2016, Flipkey
“Amazing”
Pandora is amazing. She went out of her way to make the check in process as well as our stay as a whole as comfortable as possible. Pandora is easy to communicate with and easy to do business with. The Green Cottage is a gem and the deck and the views are wonderful. The cottage is spotless everything works and has everything needed for your stay. Simply put Pandora really cares about the Green Cottage and it shows. — Wayne, November 2016, Airbnb
“Our favorite VRBO ever!”
We visited Green Cottage for four days … and we can’t say enough good things about it! First is the incredible location, situated on the most beautiful lagoon/estuary with a great view of the amazing (and huge!) Morro Rock in the distance.
The cottage is literally steps from the water and even though the weather was brisk we sat out on the deck every day watching the many, many birds (and ducks!) float by. The interior of the cottage is incredibly charming — it was VERY clean with a lot of artwork and personal touches that made it feel like “home.” And the king bed was literally THE most comfortable bed we have EVER slept on in a VRBO!
And last (but definitely not least) is the owner – Pandora – who truly could not have been nicer or more accommodating. She was there for us if we needed anything but at the same time gave us total privacy to enjoy the cottage. We have been vacationing in VRBO properties for close to 15 years now and Green Cottage is now our absolute FAVORITE…we’ll definitely be back! Georganne B., December 2015, VRBO
“Another world … ”
Came up for a weekend wedding with my Mom. I wanted a place my Mom could both enjoy and find needed rest. The cottage was all that and more. I couldn’t have been more pleased … After fighting Friday’s weekend traffic in SoCal, the Green Cottage made us feel like those hours of noise and congestion had not ever occurred. The cottage is a sanctuary; beautiful, hypnotic views off the back deck. This is a place you can come to stay without ever venturing off the property to explore the beautiful Central Coast. However, if exploring is what you want, Pandora & Gary have the most extensive & well-organized collection of Central Coast videos, books and pamphlets I have ever seen. Simply amazing. It was a special weekend; and, I could not have imagined it better. I cannot wait to visit again. Sabrina H., September 2015, VRBO
“A little piece of Heaven”
What a fantastic getaway the “Green Cottage” is. We just spent six nights of heaven in this adorable, little cottage with the most amazing, relaxing view. When we arrived, we found it was so much more than a small cottage on the water. It was immaculately clean, which is very important to me! Pandora the owner provided fresh flowers, fruit, coffee, yogurt and so many other special touches. The deck is heaven! I could go on and on but you have to go and see it for yourself! — Susan M., July 2015, Flipkey
“I will be back!”
I have now stayed at The Green Cottage at least six times…that must say something about how special it is and all it has to offer. My go-to destination for rest and relaxation. I now feel as if I’m a local. Enjoyed exploring some new places: Tiber Canyon Ranch Olive Oil in a beautiful olive orchard; Force of Nature winery in Paso Robles—excellent wines; Robins restaurant in Cambria—Salmon chowder a must; Sidecar for drinks in SLO; La Casita Mexican food in Los Osos—best salsa on the planet! Bayside Cafe in Morro Bay, great mud pie … The beauty and charm of the Green Cottage never disappoints and I don’t think you will find a more spectacular view from the deck of the cottage anywhere. Pandora and Gary go above and beyond to make sure their guests have exactly what they need. There is every amenity you could ever want… binoculars for bird watching, popcorn maker for popcorn while enjoying one of the many dvd’s, high quality sheets, towels and pillows…the list is endless. One thing is for sure, I will be back! — Jayne C., December 2014, Flipkey
“A perfect Romantic Getaway!”
We stayed at this charming cottage for our 26th wedding anniversary in 2012 and returned in November 2014 for my husband’s surprise birthday getaway … The views and sunsets from the private deck are nothing short of spectacular … The kitchen is very well appointed with quality kitchenware and everything one would need to cook up a wonderful meal. We enjoyed an incredible hike at nearby Montaña de Oro with amazing views of the ocean! The cottage is beautifully decorated and very clean and the owners are extremely accommodating. Pandora was wonderful to work with in coordinating the trip and went out of her way to make sure we had everything we needed. She even provided fresh coffee, fruit and a wonderful bottle of wine … We are already planning a return trip in a few months! — Annette L., November 2014, VRBO
“Wanted to Stay Longer!”
Of the many places we’ve had the good fortune to stay, this was one of our favorites … The cottage immediately felt like home to us. It is well decorated with an eclectic mix of styles, items and books. The bed is very comfortable, there is a living room area with a large collection of DVDs and there is a kitchen and dining area that opens to the deck. It was hard to leave the deck with the beautiful sunrises, variety of birds and beautiful sunsets, all with Morro Rock the distance. We had excellent weather, so we spent a lot of time here eating or taking in the view … While hard to leave, the cottage is an excellent base for the great things to do on the Central Coast. We enjoyed hiking in nearby Montaña de Oro, but in addition to the nearby town of Morro Bay, you are within striking distance of the wine country and Hearst Castle.
Our hosts, Pandora and Gary, were friendly and helpful, while respecting our privacy and not being intrusive. Pandora is an artist and former graphic designer, and her good taste and sharp eye show in the way the cottage is decorated. We’ll definitely be back and will definitely stay longer! — Webb B., November 2014, VRBO
“Just Plain Perfect”
It is said that “if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” Well, the minute we walked through the front door, we realized that the Green Cottage defies this proverb. It lived up to the expectations we had, and then surpassed them. If you want a place that’s lovely, quiet, peaceful, and just plain perfect, the Green Cottage is the place to go. — Michael M., August 2013, VRBO
“Idyllic, quiet hideaway with stunning views.”
Perfect for those who want a quiet, cozy, beach cottage to get away from it all. Spotless, nice furnishings, close to Morro Bay, Hearst Castle, and San Luis Obispo and located in a charming, friendly neighborhood. Highly recommended, will definitely book it again. — Henna S., December 2013, VRBO
“Wish I could live here.”
It’s difficult to find the words to describe such a great experience. Having been there once before, it’s amazing to find that the second stay at the cottage just gets better … The cottage is wonderfully located, with quick and easy access to Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, as well as hiking, shopping, kayaking, walking along the Elfin Forest or Montaña de Oro, or just relaxing and enjoying the wonderful view from the patio (and taking some great photographs of amazing sunsets) or enjoying a movie in the evening from the vast selection of movies from the DVD collection at the cottage, Each time I have been there, I leave making the same comment, “I wish we could live here.” — S.K., December 2012, VRBO
“Our favorite beach house!”
The Green Cottage definitely is our favorite beach house! We had our own in Baja for many years, but here Pandora & Gary have done all the work! … It was truly a delight for the senses and the soul: the stillness and quiet; the dynamic beauty of the skies and water; misty mornings; bountiful bird life; moonlight dancing on the water and the simple joys of watching the tides rise & fall. And all of that right from our kitchen table! Our first morning we made blueberry pancakes; it took four hours due to the delightful distractions of changing light, sea and birdlife right outside the kitchen window! That pace set the tone for our week … We enjoyed all of the personal touches — the homemade quilt, antiques, beautiful shell collections, vases of fragrant flowers, lovely assortment of dishes, stoneware and linens, and yes sharp knives! We love to cook, and the kitchen served us well. And, did we say Champagne stopper? We forgot ours and that was most welcome! The deck was a perfect spot to photograph all the birds and sunsets … Plenty of room for tripods and dining at the same time! Pandora & Gary provided all we could want or need and so much more. They are masterful decorators and innkeepers. And their most kind and helpful welcoming notes, gifts and surprises were most appreciated. — Piet V.D., October 2012, VRBO
“All that is says and more”
Everything was accurate for the Green Cottage including the photos. What they don’t reflect is how immaculate the cottage is. Both Pandora and Gary were available and helpful and my husband and I would recommend this property to anyone wanting a restful and beautiful place on the central coast. We have stayed at other rentals but have not returned to them and we plan to revisit the Green Cottage as soon as possible. We especially recommend hiking in Montaña De Oro State Park. Elana E., October 2012, VRBO
“The ‘Green Cottage’ — an exceptional vacation retreat!!”
My husband and I have rented many vacation homes and condos — and the Green Cottage is definitely one of the best, if not THE best. Although small, it is beautifully (and artfully!) furnished, with everything that one could need for a relaxing get-a-way in the Los Osos/Morro Bay area. Pandora, the very attentive owner, has thought of everything! There were fresh flowers, fruit, and coffee waiting for us upon our arrival; there are binoculars, guide books for exploring the beauty of the area, and information on the local attractions; the king-sized bed is super comfortable; and the Cottage has just about the best equipped kitchen of any vacation home that we’ve rented. The deck is an excellent “bird watching” location; in fact, after visiting several “bird watching” locations in the area one afternoon, we returned to the Green Cottage and were treated to the best “bird watching” of the entire day! We can’t wait to visit again! Nora L., February 2012, VRBO
“Tranquility reigns”
My husband and I spent a very relaxing week in the Green Cottage. All I can say is it was a lovely place to be. The cottage itself is incredibly comfortable and beyond well furnished. Great bed and pillows, a totally well equipped kitchen (good, sharp knives, nice pans, beaucoup plates, glasses, etc.) and lovely paintings and art everywhere you look. Even a beautiful quilt on the bed made by Pandora. The main attraction, the bay view, is lovely. We did have fog for a few days but it cleared. Watching the birds and the changing of the tides could be a full-time occupation here. And, most of all, the blessed quiet. No traffic noise, no weed eaters, just peacefulness. — Marianne M., August 2011, VRBO
“So Much More Than I Expected”
Although I had visited the Green Cottage in the past, this was my first time actually staying as a guest … The utter peace and quiet of the “back bay” is incomparable. Breakfast on the deck was my favorite time of day. The morning sun warms the deck, and literally hundreds of Snowy Plovers chattered away at the water’s edge, sharing their morning news with us … Birders find this area to be especially inviting, with a rookery minutes away from the cottage. Binoculars are available in the house, if you enjoy bird watching as much as I do.
As others have already attested, the amenities and decor make you feel right at home immediately. There is nothing you might need that you will not find in this kitchen and pantry. Beds are comfortable, and the rest of the furnishings in the house are cozy and homey … Gary & Pandora’s family have lived in and loved this cottage for generations. My own family owned and lived in this cottage prior to that.
Although everything is fresh and modernized, the Karners have left enough of the original parts of the house (rough hewn board ceiling, 1800s vintage hardware on the doors, etc.) that you can get a feel for what this home was like when it was originally built. I loved the fact that there was no TV or telephone. I turned off my cell phone, and did not even unpack my computer for several days. It was so lovely to completely step away from the demands of daily life, and just absorb the surroundings, both inside and out.
I would highly recommend the Green Cottage to anyone who is looking for a comfortable, friendly, clean, relaxing place to spend some time. Come visit. You won’t be disappointed. Roxanna, L., March 2011, VRBO
“We have rented cottages … ”
We have rented cottages, cabins, and condos many times in many locations. I wish all of them were as nice as this one. The cottage was bright and clean and well-equipped. It literally had everything we needed. We particularly liked the book the owner put together of things to do, places to go, restaurant recommendations, menus, etc. We enjoyed watching the various birds through the window and learning about them from the books & pamphlets in the cottage. The “customer service” was outstanding. We have never had an owner who was so helpful and who gave such personal service. We would certainly stay again and have already recommended the Green Cottage to some friends. — The Browns, January 2010, VRBO
“Artist’s Dream Location”
The Green Cottage, with its deck overlooking the peaceful back bay, on Morro Bay, is an ideal location for inspiration. For me, that results in beautiful paintings. I have visited the Cottage over the years and painted from the deck, and painted the cottage from across the bay. There is a quiet, almost mystical presence there on that point of land … The cottage is filled with original art work (including some of mine) and is a warm inviting place to stay. When our daughter was planning her wedding, she decided to be married there, right outside on the beach. We held a small reception at the Cottage and she and her husband stayed there on their wedding night. The Green Cottage is perfect for artists, photographers and birders, or anyone who loves nature. I have recommended it to my friends and workshop students. For people seeking a Las Vegas-type party environment, keep looking. The Green Cottage on Morro Bay, is everything but that. — Libby T., October 2009, VRBO