- Intimate Luxury ... Minutes from Malibu Beach in a beautiful park-like setting Reviews, Deals & Photos 2025

Q: Is - Intimate Luxury ... Minutes from Malibu Beach in a beautiful park-like setting pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

Q: Where is - Intimate Luxury ... Minutes from Malibu Beach in a beautiful park-like setting located?

Located in Fernwood, this cottage is steps from Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Topanga State Park. Topanga State Beach and Las Tunas State Beach are also within 6 mi (10 km).

10/10 Excellent

david h.

Apr 18, 2023

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

Short weekend

The place is very cute and cozy. The owner is great, very very helpful. Getting to the little cottage will get your step goal quickly, once there it is like you are in a tree house.

Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dennis C.

Feb 27, 2022

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

A Lovely Oasis

Shari is a wonderful host who exudes kindness and spirituality. Fernwood is a peaceful, cozy, and clean getaway.

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

John G.

Feb 14, 2022

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

perfect getaway spot

great place

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Steven P., US

Jan 19, 2022

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

Peaceful rest in a wonderful place

Nice small cottage in a nearby canyon. My wife and I came to visit friends and attend the Tournament of Roses Parade. Place was clean and welcoming. The host was great. The hike up the stairs and across a bridge was unexpected. We ended up leaving our big suitcase in the trunk of the car. Hope to stay again.

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jon W.

Jun 23, 2020

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

Clean and Relaxing Getaway

We really enjoyed our stay here. The cabin is small but comfortable and clean. There were nice touches throughout from soft blankets to fresh flowers and sugar for coffee/tea-- you can tell the host cares about providing you a comfortable stay. It's not a 5-star hotel, but it's a unique experience. One thing to note is that it is right next to a main road (this didn't bother us and of course is not the host's fault but you should be ok with this. The back house is tucked away.) I would also recommend that you bring mosquito spray or have a citronella candle (as we did) if you plan on using the beautiful outdoor space.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020

8/10 Good

Ella, San Pedro

Mar 12, 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities

Coming to this place nestled in the trees was just what we were looking for. You feel like you're in the woods even though you are right on hwy 27. There is a steep flight of stairs to get to this adorable cottage that might be a challenge for some. Perfect central location for the Getty Villa, hiking, dining, shopping and the beach.

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

Susan A.

Nov 17, 2019

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

Charming place for a couple to stay

We enjoyed the stylish comfort and the tranquility of the location. The proprietor was very friendly and helpful.

10/10 Excellent

melissa F.

Aug 30, 2019

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

In the trees

Just wonderful.

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

Terry U.

Jul 23, 2019

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

Lovely!

A gem of a place in beautiful surroundings. Very welcoming host. Highly recommend as a getaway spot. Close to beach, hiking trails, but you may not feel the need to leave the property!

10/10 Excellent

Matthew E., Connecticut

Jul 17, 2019

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

Wonderful Escape

Fantastic little cottage tucked away in the outer LA area. Quaint and inviting with proximity to all things you’d want to visit. Hosts go out of their way to make everything an enjoyable stay.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

Danielle C., Burbank

Jun 14, 2019

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

One of the best getaways in Topanga

Shari is amazing to work with and her property reflects the same. There are a few homes located on the property and we stayed at the one that is built around the trees. It is secluded and the view.... WOW! The cottage has everything you need and more including a wonderful sound system for snuggling up with the one you love. The location couldn't be better as it is less than a mile from the heart of Topanga. I'm hesitant to write this review as I prefer to keep this little gem to myself. All in all a great experience and we can't wait to return!

10/10 Excellent

Edward B., BOTHELL, WA

Oct 5, 2018

Cozy, convenient and relaxing

Hidden away in Topenga Canyon, this little cottage is a wonderful oasis. I've come back again to stay with Shari and Bert and enjoy not only the wonderful surroundings, but the incredibly thoughtful, friendly and warm hospitality. The walk up to the cottage has quite a few stairs, so you should pack and plan accordingly. Once you are there, it is a beautiful, quiet spot. I am in the area often for work, and this is my go-to spot as opposed to a hotel. Convenient to Universal, Malibu, Santa Monica and only about 30 minutes from LAX, you are in the country but very close to the city. The Topenga Canyon area is eclectic and beautiful. My favorite spot in the LA metroplex. I will be back!

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2018

10/10 Excellent

mark w.

Jun 30, 2018

Fun location, great out side space

Very interesting place owners were great!

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2018

10/10 Excellent

Marcienne D., Topanga, USA

May 12, 2018

perfect getaway

I had a perfect getaway at this lovely cottage in the canyon!! Shari was a wonderful host, their place has nature everywhere you turn which was what I was hoping for! Such detail on the property and adorable pathway to the home with candles light everywhere. My dog loved it too!! Their location is smack dab between some great eats in the area and of course hiking and the beach is super close too. I will most definitely stay here again!! Highly recommended.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2018

10/10 Excellent

Morgan S., New York

Mar 5, 2018

Romantic little getaway in the canyon!!

Great little cottage in the canyon. Very romantic, candles lit on the property, and pretty lighting along the way to the cottage from the main home. They are the best hosts we have come across in all of our homeaway stays!!Would definitely come back, and definitely recommend.

Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2018

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

chiah r.

Aug 29, 2017

Great and easy for us!

Was a lovely clean cute and well stocked home.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2017

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Rick A.

Mar 21, 2016

Enchanting Topanga Treehouse Adventure

My wife and I were searching for a location both nature-filled and close to the man made bustle of LA, Malibu and Santa Monica. Shari & Bert's Cottage here fulfilled that blend. This set of structures (a cottage and a couple houses) cling to the side of the canyon, anchored by Bert's landslide reinforcements and large oak, eucalyptus and palm trees which they planted here many years ago when only a hunter's blind occupied the property. Access through the windy canyon road and then parking, once you have located the small driveway apron along the 27, is challenging. However, once you have climbed the hillside stairs through the park like setting and set down your bags, your pulse returns to a resting pace. The cottage itself is cozy in a generous way. We applaud the furnishings. There is a space heater that we turned on in the morning. There is a complete kitchen set which we utilized for our delightful al fresco breakfasts . At night, when returning to the cottage from our LA wandering , the darkness is broken up by thoughtfully placed footpath lighting and the romantic presence of many votive candles along deck & bridge railings. Magical. We were close enough to hop over to the San Fernando Valley for groceries, visit Hollywood for St Patricks Day partying and a visit to the nearby and splendid Getty Villa. We hiked along the beach and another day into the hills of giant Topanga State Park. This place gives you both worlds represented by sound, the ebb and flow of cars and motorcycles racing by below you, then at times deep canyon silence - surrendering only to cheerful birdsong and water fountain gush. All in all charming hosts, enchanting setting.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

2/10 Terrible

Aseem K.

Mar 4, 2016

Unpleasant stay

We were super excited after booking this property and were looking forward to our stay there but this was quite a disappointment. Don't get fooled by those photos, this property doesn't even get close to that. We could not get hold of the owner throughout our stay there, so we were on our own. Had trouble finding the place first and then the parking. The key to the property wasn't provided so there's no way to lock the cottage when you are gone. It was cold at night when we were there but there's no heating except for a portable heater which made a heck load of noise so we decided to leave it alone. The 'hot' water in the shower was barely lukewarm. The kitchen was barely stocked and there were two old towels in the bathroom in the name of linens. The curtains in the kitchen could not be drawn which left the whole cottage exposed. The comforter on the bed is so heavy that you can get buried underneath it but you can't move it, lol. And there's not much you can do about anything when the owner ignores your phone calls and texts for two straight days. Basically this turned out to be an expensive tree house vacation!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Craig and Cheryl B., Bakerfield

Sep 22, 2015

Exceeded My Expectations

The grounds surrounding the cottage were lush and verdant. Every window of the cottage afforded a view of trees - oak, bamboo and a huge eucalyptus. Plants of every variety blanketed the ground. Birds filled the air with their songs and I enjoyed listening to the hooting of owls at night. At dusk, the propery came alive with lights - in the trees, along the walkways and in the bushes, which created an ambiance that was spectacular. The cottage sat on a hill and was accessed via 4 staircases. The cottage was situated on the property in such a way that I had complete privacy. The cottage was clean to a fault and was filled with lots of natural light during the daytime. At night the lighting inside the cottage was supplied by lamps, wall sconces and can lights in the kitchen. The furnishings were beautiful as well as comfortable. I prepared all my meals in the fully stocked kitchen and ate al fresco on the deck, while viewing the grounds. I appreciated the fluffy white bathrobe, the A/C, the premium linens and the luxury soaps which were provided for my use. Thank you Bert and Shari for sharing your lovely cottage with me. I recommend this lovely cottage with its outstanding grounds.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Leisha H.

Sep 19, 2015

Wonderful Stay! Great spot

My husband and I truly enjoyed the location of the cottage on the mountain side! Nice and secluded and surrounded by beautiful landscaping. Shari and Bert have invested a lot of effort not only in the cottage but the outdoor deck and walkway are all finely decorated and maintained. We loved how close the cottage was to Malibu beaches- zuma beach, el matador beach to name a few and fine dining. Hope to stay again soon! Thank you for allowing us to enjoy a piece of your paradise!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Michelle K.

Sep 12, 2015

Romantic Cottage!

My boyfriend and I stayed here over Labor Day weekend and had an amazing experience. We loved staying in Topanga Canyon because we could enjoy both the beautiful nature of the canyon and the nearby beaches! There is great hiking right by the property. We hiked in the morning and saw some deer. There are some really beautiful beaches nearby and some fun wineries. The cottage really is in the perfect location to do it all! The property itself is nice to hang out at as well. We spent one evening just sitting on the patio drinking wine. Shari was such a warm and welcoming host. She keeps the cottage and the property looking so beautiful. We were able to text her throughout our stay and she even let us borrow her beach bag. I would highly recommend staying in this quaint little cottage!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Alicia C.

Sep 2, 2014

Own private bungalow- an amazing cottage stay!

I would highly recommend this beautifully finished bungalow to locals and visitors of Malibu!! Shari and Bert are the best host's I've meet via VRBO, and I'm comparing to many surrounding states as well. So accommodating and gracious to guests. The property has a vibe of spa-meets-resort. From candles throughout property, to relaxing sitting areas with bistro tables, it all creates the perfect ambience. Shari/Bert have put much tlc into the bungalow. Two large tree trunks extend out from private front patio, similar to Andrew Lloyd Wright design. As you tell by the pictures, the design of every part of the cottage is done with impeccable taste. It's like your own private hotel suite in the foothills of Malibu. Thank you so much guys!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Georgie S., Bixby, Ok

Jul 28, 2014

Perfect cottage + Total Relaxation = One Perfect Week

My daughter and I stayed in this cottage for six nights while she was doing a music camp at Pepperdine University. Shari and Bert were beyond hospitable. We were welcomed to a quaint little cottage that had all of our needs. Kitchen was perfect for the two of us. Sitting area inside and out were delightful and bedding, towels, and toiletries were all very high-end luxury products. Shari provided us with luxury robes and a beach bag for the day packed with towels, sheet, etc. At night driving the cottage looked like a resort. Waterfalls, candles lit throughout, very pretty and calming. Our cottage also had an air unit which was nice at night if you like it cold to sleep, but there are also windows and screens all around the cottage. The location of the house is in the Topanga Canyon. We had a rental car and were able to easily navigate to all the shopping, beaches, PCH, Santa Monica Pier...everything was within 15-20 minutes. We would definitely rent from Shari and Bert again. Beautiful and kind family.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Apr 28, 2014

Magical!

We staid for a week and were delighted with the location and the hospitality. Shari and Bert have created an idyllic oasis in a very rural setting that is effectively right in LA. The cottage is well appointed, everything works and is very private. We mixed it up both eating out locally and cooking at home. When we eat at home we had a choice of several private outside areas to sit - all lit by candles and surrounded by landscaped trees. Topanga is quite different from the rest of LA. It has everything and is a great deal of fun. Malibu beach really is only 8 miles away and Santa Monica only 20 minutes away. You definitely need a car to stay here to make the most of the area. But that is true for most of LA! Shari was a fantastic host. Her communications were very prompt and straight forwards. It could not have been easier. She and Bert were very helpful but at the same time very respectful of our privacy. And yes, the candles lighting up the path through the trees is truly magical. Thank you very much.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Kevin M.

Nov 7, 2013

Honeymoon in Paradise!

My new wife and I stayed here on our honeymoon and couldn't have been happier. Our vacation went from being good to great when we got to this property. Everything is perfect, from the scenic drive, the beautiful landscape, to the clean, cozy and stylish cottage.. Shari & Bert are truly great people and were there for any of our needs, while still keeping a secluded feel for us. We also enjoyed being greeted by their cat and dog, Salem & Buffalo. I highly recommend this property and look forward to our next visit. Kevin & Tracey Boston

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- Intimate Luxury ... Minutes from Malibu Beach in a beautiful park-like setting

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