The Yellow Cottage-Manzanita Cottages

Great place

We loved our stay at the Yellow Cottage. It was very welcoming, clean and a short walk to the beach, shops and restaurants. It could be challenging for some climbing the hill or the stairs. If this does not discourage you this is a great place to stay! We would not hesitate to go back.

The cottage was very quiet but within easy walking distance to Laguna Beach. It was just the right size for two, with good lighting and a very comfortable bed. The kitchen has everything you need. Would definitely stay here again.

The cottages are adorable - quaint, historic, iconic and nestled into their own little private community in the heart of Laguna Beach. We stayed in the charming yellow cottage and we literally felt like we were living in a storybook - gnome hats not included. :). If you are expecting pristine and modern, change your expectations before you go. While the cottage itself was very clean and decorated brightly with cute furnishings and colors, if you take a closer look it is easy to see how in need of TLC this property really is. There were cobwebs in the corners, window tracks were filthy, screens don’t fit properly, curtain racks and fixtures are hung carelessly and crooked on the walls, walls have numerous cracks, etc. The grounds outside also need some attention - just general lawn and landscaping grooming would make a world of difference. I would have loved if someone could have moved the creepy life sized deer figurine that was randomly tossed in the little “alley” our bedroom window looked out to. Why someone who owns a property as adorable as this would just “let it go” is beyond me. With a little time and attention this could be a 5 star place. But because of these issues I give it 3 stars. Also of note is that our A/C wasn’t working when we checked into our cottage - during a heatwave I might add. We were able to reach the property manager/owner promptly and he summoned repair people who were able to get the issue fixed the following day. Neil was as accommodating as he could be and gave us use of the studio apartment (also on the same property) for the first night of our stay. While definitely inconvenient to not be able to “move in” and unpack/get organize until the second day of our short 3 day visit, we understand that these things happen. Of note - there is a coffee maker and blow dryer in the cottage - kitchen has what you need for light meals, etc. There is no oven but there is a microwave and toaster oven. There is a laundry room on the premises as well with one washer/dryer to share. Overall a quality stay. We did love the location as it was just a short walk to the beach and Laguna shopping as well as nightlife.