Apartment

John Steinbeck's Writer's Studio: Home of Classic American Author - 30 night min

Photo gallery for John Steinbeck's Writer's Studio: Home of Classic American Author - 30 night min

Front of studio during the day
Queen bed headboard
Garden view through beautiful multi-pane window
Spacious bathroom with shower
Spacious bathroom with shower and beautiful accent tile wall

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 232.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space
  • Ocean view

Explore the area

Map
Pacific Grove, CA
  • Cannery Row
    ‪9 min walk‬
  • Monterey Bay Aquarium
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Lovers Point
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Monterey, CA (MRY-Monterey Peninsula)
    ‪8 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

John Steinbeck's Writer's Studio: Home of Classic American Author - 30 night min

This charming historic studio was once owned by American author John Steinbeck. It's been featured in several articles: including “20 Romantic Getaways” and in NYT's "Frank Sinatra Slept Here, and So Can You" (August 2020).

There is a 30-night minimum stay for this cottage.

'I bought a small house and garden in Pacific Grove...' (John Steinbeck: A Life in Letters). American author John Steinbeck wrote these words to a friend about this charming house he called home in the 1940s.

This cozy studio retreat has one bedroom with a queen bed and and a sitting area, a spacious full bathroom, and a fully stocked kitchen.

The studio is approximately 350 square feet. It is original 1920's architecture and has short doorways throughout the studio. Taller guests (anyone 5'10" or taller) will need to mind their heads passing through entry-ways and in the kitchen (it has low ceilings). The studio has been renovated throughout in December 2023 - new flooring, kitchen and bathroom.

It is one of three cottages on the property and has a unique and rich literary history, having belonged to John Steinbeck in the early 1940's. He used it as his writing studio and worked on novels including The Sea of Cortez while living here.

The Neighborhood
Pacific Grove has been called “Butterfly Town U.S.A.,” “The Most Romantic City in the U.S.,” “A Dreamy California Destination, ” as well as an idyllic place to get married, to honeymoon or to just hang out. Some of it is self-proclaimed, some the acclaim of people who have actually visited Pacific Grove.

You will find Pacific Grove on the very tip of the scenic, tree-shrouded Monterey Peninsula with a rocky coastline and an ambiance of charm, grace and beauty.

Founded in the 1870s as a Methodist summer retreat, Pacific Grove still bears the look and feel of yesteryear. As you stroll the residential streets admiring the charm of home after home, you will notice little plaques on many of the homes that bear the name of the original owner and the year in which it was built. To qualify for a plaque from the Heritage Society of Pacific Grove, a structure must look like it did when it was originally built.

Among its visitors are brightly colored orange-and-black Monarch butterflies, who overwinter in Pacific Grove after traveling up to 2,000 miles, arriving by the thousands starting in October, peaking around Christmas and departing by March.

Besides its scenic beauty and idyllic neighborhoods, Pacific Grove offers an eclectic downtown experience, with small boutiques, gift shops, art galleries, antique stores and more. Other vibrant shopping areas are along Central Avenue at the entrance to Pacific Grove from Cannery Row and at the top of Forest Avenue on Forest Hill.

Getting around
The Writer's Studio is centrally located and a short walk from many scenic destinations. It is located a half mile from The Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row, as well as downtown Pacific Grove. Lover's Point beach is just one mile away and downtown Monterey is two miles away.

There are many fantastic restaurants, activities and shops in the area.

Other Things to Note
- Check-in time is 4:00 pm and check-out time is 11:00 am.
- There is a firm no smoking, no drugs and no vaping policy.
- There is a no pet policy.
- We do not have a washer/dryer on the property for guest use.

Property manager

Kevin & Vicky Delaney
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Outdoor space
Ocean view
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Noise-free guestrooms cannot be guaranteed
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Pacific Grove

Pacific Grove is home to this apartment. Fisherman's Wharf and Pebble Beach Golf Links are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Monterey Bay and Lovers Point. Check out an event or a game at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, and consider making time for Monterey Bay Aquarium, a top attraction not to be missed. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and scuba diving nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and cycling.
Map
Pacific Grove, CA

What's nearby

  • Cannery Row - 9 min walk - 0.8 km
  • Monterey Bay Aquarium - 10 min walk - 0.8 km
  • Lovers Point - 2 min drive - 2.2 km
  • Fisherman's Wharf - 3 min drive - 2.7 km
  • Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary - 5 min drive - 3.4 km

Getting around

  • Monterey Station - 10 min walk
  • Monterey, CA (MRY-Monterey Peninsula) - 8 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Monterey Bay Aquarium - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Gianni's Pizza - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Sea Harvest - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬7 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is John Steinbeck's Writer's Studio: Home of Classic American Author - 30 night min pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at John Steinbeck's Writer's Studio: Home of Classic American Author - 30 night min?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at John Steinbeck's Writer's Studio: Home of Classic American Author - 30 night min?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is John Steinbeck's Writer's Studio: Home of Classic American Author - 30 night min located?

Situated in Pacific Grove, this apartment building is within a 10-minute walk of Cannery Row and Monterey Bay Aquarium. Monterey Bay and 17-Mile Drive are also within 2 miles (3 km). Monterey Station is 10 minutes by foot.

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 44 out of 50 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 50 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 50 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 50 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 50 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Andrea M.

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

Perfect Solo Retreat

The Steinbeck Writer's Studio fit my desire for a month of peace, solitude, and opportunities for adventure perfectly. The Studio is generously supplied with all necessary kitchen items, has a beautifully updated bathroom, a cozy bedroom, lots of windows for natural light, and a wonderful outdoor seating area. The central location made outings to the beach, aquarium, restaurants, 17 mile drive, Asilomar, Carmel, Big Sur (especially Nepenthe!) and Monterey. Will never forget the whale sightings! Having a fully equipped kitchen was a cost saver and a welcome alternative to eating out. Vicky and Kevin were lovely hosts. They were very responsive and communicated with me before and during my stay. My stay left me relaxed and ready to integrate this contentment into life back home. I highly recommend this lovely cottage and hope I can return.
Stayed 30 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

AdamCarmelle F.

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

Quiet, relaxing stay!

We spent our honeymoon here and enjoyed the quiet neighborhood! What a great location to relax and be near to so many scenic spots!
Stayed 30 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Great stay

Cute little property with a great history. Location was great, an easy walk to the grocery, drugstore and to town. Coming from AZ where they were having triple digit temps it was a pleasure to spend a month with temps never hitting 70 degrees. Owners were great and very responsive. Lots of Steinbeck books to enjoy while you are there.
Stayed 30 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Christopher S.

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

Perfect work from home getaway

After a year of working from home, I came here for a month for a change of atmosphere. It was just what I needed. The cottage is quaint and charming and has so much history. It looks just like it does in the pics. There are plenty of places not too far away to grab a bite to eat (the empanadas at Cafe Guarini were a go-to fave of mine). Before my daily Zoom calls, I would walk near the ocean in the AM and then pickup some coffee and breakfast on my way back through Pacific Grove. Kevin and Vicky were quick to respond to any questions and were wonderful hosts! Highly recommend staying here
Stayed 30 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Michael B.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfectly accommodated 2 working adults for 3 months

The place is well located, it is basically on the border between Monterey and Pacific Grove. Short walk down the hill leads to restaurants, shops, Cannery row, the bay. We could hear the seals at night. We loved that the cottage is in the middle of the property: it provided some protection from the streets. Having the garden and the sitting area outside made for lovely lunches. We didn't cook (only some breakfast and salads for lunch). While the square footage is small it was easy to accommodate our belonging and find a place to work. Bathroom sinks/toilet, kitchen and fridge were very clean.
Stayed 91 nights in Oct 2020

8/10 Good

Theresa A., Clayton

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

Was very quaint & charming!

Would have given 5 stars except my husband is over 6ft and hit his head several times on the door jam. Great place otherwise!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2019

8/10 Good

Larry H.

Communing with John.

The electric heater was not working per the instructions. Other than that we again enjoyed our stay at the Writer's Cottage in all its quirkiness and history.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Michelle L.

Charming, perfect for a romantic getaway, and close to everything!

We had a lovely time. The cottage was adorable and walking distance to great restaurants, the aquarium, and all the fun of Monterey. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2018

10/10 Excellent

Susan B.

Cozy immaculate cottage in quiet location

The Writer's Studio is a three-room cottage (bedroom with a small sitting area, kitchen with table and two chairs, and nice-size bathroom) that is unique and charming. My husband and I stayed for a week in November and used it as a wonderful base for relaxing (there is also an outside area that is designated just for the cottage) and for exploring all that Monterey, Pacific Grove, Carmel, and Big Sur have to offer. It is in a residential area and very quiet, though is also convenient to the Aquarium and many sights in the area. The cottage is impeccably maintained and the owners responded immediately when we had our only problem during our stay -- a minor one involving the television. Highly recommended if you are looking for a cozy and romantic escape.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2018

10/10 Excellent

Jaaon S.

Great cozy cottage

We had a wonderful time in Pacific Grove. Loved that this cozy cottage was within walking distance of the waterfront coastal trail and many other amenities. Spent most of our time out and about and loved coming home to this quite and cozy refuge. The kitchen was well equiped, the bed was very comfortable and the place was very clean and tidy. If you are visitng Pacific Grove this is a great launching pad for all your adventures. we will be back! Thanks Vickey & Kevin for letting us stay in this historic cottage!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2018

8/10 Good

Paul P.

The Grapes of Commercialism?

The cottage is in a very good location, only about a half mile from Cannery Row, at the top of a long hill in a pleasant and seemingly safe neighborhood. The hosts did not meet my wife and me in person but e-mailed directions and answered our questions promptly and clearly. The cottage is cute and well-kept, like a doll house, except meant for short humans. The ceilings are not much more than 6 feet high, and the doorways even lower, so I felt somewhat cramped at 6'1''. My 5'4'' wife's only complaint was no screen on the window in the very small kitchen. The constantly running dehumidifier and the opened front door helped to eliminate the hot air from the burners on the stove and the oven, but an air conditioner probably would have been more effective. It also would be nice if an essay about the history of the cottage, including details of John Steinbeck's stay in it, is framed on a wall or presented in a conspicuous manner. After all, the main reason I chose to stay at the cottage was its connection to the great author. I later went to the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas and also was given a personal tour of his childhood home there and still do not know much about the impact of the cottage on his life. I may just be an old-fashioned former English teacher; but, like an air conditioner, the essay would have dispelled some of the hot air generated from businesses in the area that are capitalizing on Steinbeck's name and literary works.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2018

10/10 Excellent

Dana C.

We loved our stay!

Beautiful property. We felt so at home and spent 1 of our 2 nights in, drinking wine and watching movies! The town of Pacific Grove wasn't great but would go back just to stay at the property again.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2018

10/10 Excellent

Richard J.

Great place for a couple

Clean and great location. Quiet but close enough to walk to ocean easily.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2018

10/10 Excellent

Laurie T.

Cute little bungalow. Very peaceful and relaxing

Great place to unwind after exploring the area. Very comfortable bed!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2018

10/10 Excellent

Mia B., Camp Hill, Pennsylvania

Cozy Cottage

We loved our stay at the cottage. Adorable, quaint, charming! We appreciated the the amenities (especially the coffee and french press!), and the bed was incredibly comfortable. The location was great, not far from Carmel & Big Sur! We hope to come back some day.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Alison T.

Fab!

Lovely quaint cottages. Everything provided for. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Jennifer S.

Cozy and cute!

The home is so cute and clean, we loved the location. The only downside is that my husband is over 6 feet and had to watch his head a lot but that's to be expected in older homes. We enjoyed our stay and would definitely recommend this rental property.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Eliseo B.

Lovely.

Loved this location! Stayed here for our honeymoon and it was so nice. Only a few blocks from the aquarium. I would recommend this location to anyone.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Nancy W.

Cozy hideaway in beautiful Pacific Grove

The cottage is small, adorable and well appointed. It was the to perfect base for our explorations of the Bay and a wonderful retreat in the evenings. Definitely worth staying at!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Andy L.

Wonderful! Loves the area.

Darling cottage. Clean and well-equipped for cooking.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Pam O., Phoenix

History and Comfort

This was such a great place! Perfectly equipped, very clean and so cute. We had a relaxing stay for our 39th Anniversary and will recommend this wonderful property. We walked everywhere from Cannery Row to Fisherman's Warf. Kevin and Vicky were so kind and attentive, would have enjoyed meeting them. Pam and Ervin, Phoenix
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Debra D.

Relaxing, the feeling you get when you go to the cabin, but with modern conveniences.

Much better than staying at a hotel. Seamless to make reservation and payments. Street parking was very easy. The cottage was cozy and very clean. Cute decorating, with antique pictures etc. It was a little chilly when we were there so we did use the electric stove, and didn't use the outdoor setting area. Easy walk (approx 1 mile) down to the water. Neighborhood seemed safe. We gave a 4 out of 5 only because if you are tall, the ceilings, and door frames are low, and may be a problem for you. There were not too many extra plugs for computers and phones (this was a working vacation). Also, they have a dehumidifier, to counteract the ocean air, running in the kitchen that was a bit loud (but can be turned off). Enjoyed our stay. Cute cottage. Beautiful area!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

TJ T., Tulsa, Oklahoma

Wonderful and magical

Loved the character of the place and reading some of the letters in one of John Steinbeck's books written during his residence in the writer's cottage. Highly recommend it
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Teddy M.

Beautiful

Very cozy and clean. Had a wonderful time.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2016
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Stefan W.

The property was clean and well taken care of, the amenities are excellent

It was indeed an amazing feeling to stay at the very place that John Steinbeck has written some of his works. The owner provided good customer service and everything was as we hoped for.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2016

About the host

Hosted by Kevin & Vicky Delaney

Host profile image
When we are not hosting our guests, Kevin is an author and motivational speaker, after spending 25+ years in high tech and Vicky loves to bake and works in HR. We eloped in Central Park in New York City and love the simplicity of what life brings. We enjoy exploring new things. Whether it’s new foods, places to visit or experiences, we love the adventure of life. Most of all, we love time with each other, our kids, family and friends.

We were lucky enough to purchase the home of John Steinbeck, American author and Pulitzer Prize winner, and have poured our labor of love in renovating these 100 year-old cottages. Pacific Grove is our home away from home. Kevin spent a lot of time writing his first book, A Life Worth Living, in our cottages - what a fantastic place for literary inspiration!

Why they chose this property

Pacific Grove is a charming town with wonderful restaurants, a beautiful coastline and the historic Cannery Row. And there’s plenty to do – sailing, whale watching, hiking, kayaking, cycling, and wonderful coastline pathways to stroll between the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Lover’s Point. Pacific Grove also has the historic literary appeal of being the home of John Steinbeck, American author and Pulitzer Prize winner.

What makes this property unique

Besides being charming and beautiful, the cottages are distinctly unique having once been the home of author John Steinbeck. There is a rich and wonderful history to these 100-year-old cottages.

When Steinbeck resided here he formulated the plot of The Grapes of Wrath, and wrote several books including The Sea of Cortez. This is the home he shared with his second wife, Gwyn Conger, who would become the inspiration for the lead antagonist, Kate Trask, in his epic novel, East of Eden. In a letter to a friend, Steinbeck wrote of the cottages, “It is a pleasant little house, and we miss it… You’ll find you get a lot of thinking done in that house.” ' (from John Steinbeck, A Life in Letters).

We are excited to share this wonderful piece of history with you!

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests