You won't be disappointed staying with Shelley and Jeff. The pool and spa is magical and Shelley is a wonderful host. We didn't miss a kitchen because she had a microwave and refrigerator which sufficed for what we needed, and she graciously offered to cook us breakfast. We are already planning our next trip and can't wait to visit again. The Redwood Forest is wonderful in September. You can find okay restaurants, but nightlife is probably in Santa Cruz or San Jose. We felt like we had a lot of privacy.