This house is actually nicer than it appears in the photos. It’s slightly older with some quirky characteristics but the owners tried to make upgrades that make staying there nice. It is just about 1 block on the outer d/t area so there are some lower income type housing/people around but it overall seemed safe and I felt comfortable walking my dogs alone around the neighborhood. It was a quick 3-5 min walk to the square which was perfect and just around the corner is beautiful walking/biking trails through the marsh which made for nice daily walks. I would definitely stay here again! Had all of the amenities, except instructions on how to use things such as the fireplace. Didn’t have a lighter for it and while there was a coffee maker, there was no coffee supplied. Washer and dryer with soap provided and it was in a closed off utility room which was nice for keeping dog supplies in one area. Yard was very large with a nice patio but it was not fenced in.

Cozy, Comfy, Relaxation... Def will return

We loved the personal touches and cozy feel of the house. The house was clean and had everything we needed for our stay for a few days. The location is perfect for walking to the marsh, the plaza, and around town to any shops or spots to eat. We will definitely be back!

THE GOOD. This is a very reasonably-priced house (at $215/night for our three nights) with plenty of room for 2-4 guests. It has new windows, doors, tub and surround, dishwasher, stove, living room furniture and TV. The beds are new and comfortable with nice bedding and the bedroom style is interesting and quirky. Kitchenware and towels are ample, and the heater is quite effective. Although it wasn't evident from appearances (see The Problematic below), the place was very clean. A ramp at the back makes it wheelchair accessible (although there is no keyed entrance there, so one has to go up a couple of steps in the front to get in). THE PROBLEMATIC. While any vacation rental takes housing away from locals and drives up rents, this one is a tragedy because it clearly takes shelter from the very poorest. The neighborhood comprises small decrepit old houses, motel-like complexes with tiny rooms and cheap apartments. Since vacation rentals are going to drive people out of homes, let it be in wealthier areas where people can afford to go elsewhere. Within the house itself, perhaps the kitchen is in the 'distressed' style, but it just seems that the old bashed-up counters and cupboards were kept as-is, making it look dirty--though it wasn't. The toilet was also the original: we had to reach in the flush box to position the flapper and even then it kept running so we had to turn off the water line after we flushed. The yard has debris stacked around the fence, and dead weeds with humps and mounds everywhere. Because of drought, we can't water in California, so having a "lawn" is inappropriate anyway. I assume the initial earnings will continue to be invested in the place, and--with the exception of the effect on the poor--it will soon be just fine.

This cottage is cozy, clean and comfortable! We liked the location in South Arcata which made it easy to sightsee. I think it's a new listing so there are not any extra kitchen items. Also appreciated that we could bring our dog but it was a bit inconvenient not to have a fenced yard available. Needs some yard cleanup and it is on a busy (daytime) street .