Nestled among oak and redwood trees on 10 acres in Aptos, California, this geodesic dome cabin holds a special place in Airbnb history. It’s not just any tiny retreat—at one point, this was the most booked Airbnb listing in the world. With nearly 2,000 reviews and a 4.89-star rating, this whimsical mushroom-shaped cabin has hosted thousands of guests seeking an unforgettable nature escape just minutes from Monterey Bay and Santa Cruz.
Built as a DIY project using a geodesic dome kit, the structure was originally created to provide shelter for a homeless friend. Today, it stands as one of Airbnb’s most iconic listings, with a replica even installed at Airbnb’s San Francisco headquarters. Hosts Kitty and Michael Mrache have been welcoming guests since 2009, with Kitty holding one of the longest-standing Superhost designations on the platform.
The cabin’s unique geodesic design creates approximately 100 square feet of living space across two levels, all beneath a transparent dome that offers stunning views of the night sky. Let’s explore what makes this tiny retreat so special.
Images courtesy of Kitty & Michael Mrache via Airbnb
The Geodesic Dome Structure
The cabin’s defining feature is its geodesic dome—a structure of interconnected triangular panels that creates a surprisingly spacious interior despite the modest square footage. The dome’s design isn’t just visually striking; it creates unique acoustics and, most remarkably, allows guests to stargaze from bed through the glazed panels overhead.
The main structure sits on a pentagon-shaped base, creating an organic, mushroom-like appearance that blends seamlessly with the surrounding forest. The transparent panels flood the interior with natural light during the day while maintaining privacy thanks to the secluded 10-acre setting.
Interior Living Space
Step inside and you’ll find every inch of the 100 square feet thoughtfully utilized. The main floor features a cozy couch that converts to a futon for additional sleeping space, perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking a nature retreat.
A compact kitchenette provides basic amenities for preparing simple meals, while a small dining area offers a spot to enjoy breakfast with morning light filtering through the dome panels. The space manages to feel both intimate and open, thanks to the height created by the dome structure.
String lights add a magical ambiance in the evenings, while WiFi and Netflix ensure modern conveniences when you want them. Board games provide entertainment on rainy days, though most guests find themselves drawn outside to explore the property or relax on the expansive deck.
The Loft Bedroom
Climb the ladder to discover the sleeping loft, where a comfortable Casper mattress awaits beneath the dome’s apex. This is where the cabin truly shines—literally. At night, the transparent dome panels reveal a spectacular view of the stars, with the Milky Way visible on clear evenings.
The loft design maximizes vertical space while creating a cozy sleeping nook that feels like camping, but with significantly more comfort. Many guests report that stargazing from bed is the highlight of their stay.
Kitchen & Bathroom
Despite the compact footprint, the cabin doesn’t skimp on essential amenities. The bathroom features a beautiful Travertine shower that brings a touch of luxury to the forest retreat.
A composting toilet handles waste in an eco-friendly manner, keeping with the property’s natural, off-grid aesthetic. The kitchenette, while small, provides everything needed for basic meal preparation, though many guests choose to cook outdoors or explore nearby dining options in Santa Cruz and Monterey.
The Deck & Outdoor Living
The large wooden deck extends the living space significantly, offering multiple seating areas for relaxing with morning coffee or evening wine. A dining table and chairs make al fresco meals a daily pleasure.
A BBQ grill and gas burner allow for outdoor cooking, while the surrounding oak, redwood, and madrone trees provide natural shade and privacy. The deck becomes an outdoor living room, kitchen, and observatory all in one.
The 10-Acre Property
The mushroom dome sits on a remarkable 10-acre property that’s home to an eclectic menagerie of animals. Guests often encounter two friendly goats, a parrot, two cats, a small dog, nine chickens, and—most spectacularly—between 200 and 500 hummingbirds during peak season.
Walking trails wind through the property, offering opportunities to explore the diverse ecosystem. The location near Monterey Bay and within easy reach of Santa Cruz and Aptos beaches makes this an ideal base for coastal adventures.
The Redwood Grove nearby offers additional hiking opportunities, while the property itself provides plenty of space to disconnect from daily life and reconnect with nature.
Highlights
- Size: ~100 sq ft under geodesic dome
- Layout: Two levels – main floor with living, kitchen, bathroom + loft bedroom
- Location: Aptos, California on 10 acres near Redwood Grove
- Special Features: Stargazing through dome panels, Milky Way visibility, Travertine shower, composting toilet
- Outdoor Space: Large deck with BBQ, dining area, and gas burner
- Animals: 2 goats, 1 parrot, 2 cats, 1 small dog, 9 chickens, 200-500 hummingbirds seasonally
- Amenities: WiFi, Netflix, Casper mattress, board games, string lights
- Legacy: Former most-booked Airbnb listing worldwide, replica at Airbnb SF headquarters
- Nearby: Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz beaches, coastal hiking trails
Resources
The Mushroom Dome Cabin is available to book on Airbnb, where hosts Kitty and Michael Mrache continue to welcome guests seeking a unique tiny living experience in the California coastal forest.
“We have 10 acres with hiking trails. At night you can see more stars than you could imagine. You can even see the Milky Way.” ~ Kitty & Michael Mrache
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Alex
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Is this for sale?
No, whenever you see “AirBnB” it means it’s a rental property that you can book a stay in… But you are always free to contact the owner to see if you can offer them a deal they can’t refuse ;-p
When you are thirsty for freedom…., you want an “Appropriate” way out so many possibilities, for each one the right one. This solution fits perfectly with me, waking up in the morning in a feast of birds among the trees.