Gimme Shelter

People talk about location, location, location for real estate. And the same is true for camping, er “glamping.” Newly opened in 2016, Terra Glamping on the Sonoma Coast has a location to make Big Sur drool. Set high up on a hill overlooking the rugged coast and the Pacific, 10 beautifully appointed safari-style luxury canvas tents make your escape way more comfortable than ordinary camping. We’re talking beds with good threads, your own private patio, showers, and flushing toilets (hey, we get it). And if you have kids in tow, they'll love it.

Owners Rebecca Martin and David Levine made a name for themselves on the East Coast with pop-up glamping for weddings and events. This is their first permanent location—and it couldn’t be more magical.

You receive directions to this hidden getaway after confirming your stay. A dirt road winds up a hill from Highway 1 to the sweet spot, which will have you swooning from the moment of arrival. All of the tents look out to the Pacific, with a small porch for an Instagram-worthy happy hour scene (yes, bring the bubbles!). The décor is standout—rustic, yet elegant, with the refined touch of seriously good artistic style and taste, right down to the throw-pillows on your bed. The spacious open-air kitchen and deck make grilling dinner (bring your own BBQ) and enjoying morning breakfast (included in your stay) alfresco ahhh-mazing.

Watch the sunset over the Pacific, then kick back around the campfire with s’mores or hang out in the beautiful tent lounge, where a chaise and a cool sectional call your name. Then follow the lighted pathways to your tent and take a seat on your private porch to marvel at the Milky Way, the moon, or encroaching fog … it’s all good … really, really good.

BONUS: You may not want to leave your charming Terra Glamping haven, but lucky for you there are plenty of nearby hikes and beaches to explore, including the bluff trails at Sea Ranch and Bowling Ball Beach, and the Salt Point Trail, a headlands ramble with beautiful Stump Beach as your start and end point.

Terra Glamping rates start at $250 per night (2 night minimum on weekends). Directions are provided upon confirmed booking. No dogs.