I enjoyed my stay at Cozy Redwood retreat. The place is located on the hill of Mount Hermon surrouned by ancient redwood trees and still very close to Santa Cruz - it is less than 10 mins drive. Very good for a relaxed stay and hiking in the nature and you can always go down to SC for a surf or work.

Ed is an awesome host. Very friendly and intelligent, he helped me out with any difficulties I experienced as a foreigner. He is a very interesting person to talk to and also a great cook!