"No other place like this on Earth"
"Your place is amazing! We had an incredible time. All of our guests were wowed beyond belief. The waterslide was a huge hit and the island on the lake fabulous! We loved the cornhole, ping pong, and all the kids activities. Your hosting, Sara and John, was stellar and we can’t wait to come back. No other place like this on Earth! Cheers and Blessings"
– Tristen & Amie Hensley; Jaxon and Calvin
"Truly a magical place"
"This is truly a magical place and one that my family will always treasure! We can’t wait to come back!"
– the Vivenzis; Mila, Hudson, Dory, Bart & Michelle
"We can’t wait to come back"
"What a magical place… Our whole family had the best time ever! We can’t wait to come back!"
– The D’Amico Family
"Sara and John were incredible hosts!"
"Their beautiful, thoughtful, and spacious home was the perfect escape for a weekend retreat with friends. We took advantage of the large pond, waterslide, outdoor kitchen area, and many sleeping quarters. It was my dream to throw an event where we had music, relay races, good BBQ, and never once had to get into a car. Their home made this possible.
Everything was well organized and they were super accommodating to our needs. We even worked with a local winery to have a tasting onsite. I would highly recommend their space for group events, and definitely plan to visit again!"
-Madeline Grubman
"I highly recommend and will definitely return."
"The moment we drove into Sunhawk Farms I knew I was in the exact type of space I was longing for - a place to unplug and unwind with my family amidst a beautiful backdrop of hills and trees, water and sun. My only regret was not having stopped at a store to fill up the fridge when I arrived so that I didn’t have to turn around and leave the property again, since I wanted to soak up every second (so plan on bringing in what you need!).
My two kids shrieked with excitement when they saw the “pond” (which is more like a little lake) and the slide going into it. They also noticed the floating dock in the center which housed a swing and a diving board. We couldn’t wait to unpack and get in. Next we headed to the Red Barn where we lived for the next few days. The wide open space was light and airy. John Schaefer, our fantastic host, had the solar powered A/C running to keep it cool and it was perfect. The kitchen was well stocked with all the necessities and the beds were super comfortable and clean.
Awaiting us were the gifts of two books, written by John, on solar power and all of the ecological attributes he’s contributed to our world, and a bottle of wine. We were ready to begin the chill. And chill we did. John is the kind of host who is there when you need him and around as much as you’d like him to be, and gives you space if that’s what you are looking for.
We got a little of both. The two highlights of the stay for me were standing up paddle boarding across the lake while reggae tunes emanated from the sound system. I told John, in fact, that would go down as one of the top 20 moments of my life, thus far. The lake is so pristine and peaceful. My other favorite moment of the trip was being shown the incredible house John designed and finding our way to the solar cooling room where we drummed and sang harmony with our kids and John. It was pure magic! Our kids caught tadpoles, swam and played on the play structure while we relaxed and swam and cooked and ate and hot tubed. There are plenty of places to hike, a lavender labyrinth to walk through, a canoe and a kayak, and a beautiful view to take in everywhere you turn. It was exactly the time and space we were hoping for. I highly recommend and will definitely return. "
- Ali Mann
"An amazing and unparalleled space"
"Thanks so much for allowing us to share magical SunHawk with us. It is an amazing and unparalleled space for family and friends!"
– Juanito Hensley
"Our stay at SunHawk was...dreamy and beautiful- it was magical!"
"Our stay at SunHawk was not only dreamy and beautiful- it was magical! The spring fed pond is heaven on a hot day and our kids chased frogs and tadpoles till the sun went down. This place has been created with so much love and now they are sharing it. We can’t wait to bring more friends with us next time!"
- Quincy
(July 2022)
"You just need to see for your self!"
"Still in awe of our time @sunhawkfarms. The ingenuity that was put forth into creating every aspect of this place is truly one of a kind. I can tell you about the recycled tires for roof shingles & the lavender labyrinth where one can leave the worlds worries behind; however that barely scratches the surface of the experience. You just need to see for your self!"
- Amanda
(July 2022)
"Sunhawk Farms is the definition of paradise"
"Sunhawk Farms is the definition of paradise. Tucked away in Hopland, CA is a serene oasis accompanied by plentiful fruit trees, lavender fields, and all the amenities that you can dream of. We had the entire place to ourselves for a couple days and were heartbroken to leave.
All our guests raved at the amazing water pressure and how comfortable their beds were. The highlight of our stay was having the privilege to enjoy the lake, its 30 foot water slide, and the floating island with diving board. We recommend waking up early to use the hot tub as you watch the sky change colors and the water lilies open, taking a stroll through the lavender labyrinth, then hopping into the lake and using the refreshing outdoor shower afterwards.
This already amazing experience was made even better by Sara’s generosity. She went above and beyond by checking in and making sure we had everything we needed. She even gave us fresh basil, a bottle of wine made on the property, and picked us mulberries from their tree! This made for the best 30th birthday that my partner could ask for. If you are looking for a truly unique experience, come to Sunhawk Farms and you won’t be disappointed."
- Thuy Tran
(July 2022)
"Best experience ever"
"Hands down best experience ever. Had an amazing time. Can’t wait to come back again next year"
– Jenn and Dave Seligman
"Great place for kids and family"
"Maverick and I had the time of our lives. Great place for kids and family."
– Stacie
"We had so much fun"
"What a great place! We had so much fun. The smiles on everyone’s faces were so wonderful to see!! Thanks so much and looking forward to the next visit."
– Ron & Deb Meyers
"The most fun we’ve ever had as a family!!"
“The most fun we’ve ever had as a family!! We go all over the world but this is one of the most magical places we’ve every stayed. Peaceful, inspiring, and relaxing. My kids were outside for three full days barefoot and free. We are refreshed and inspired to be more connected to nature, which we needed to be reminded of. Everything we could ask for was here and I never want to leave! We can’t wait to come back to this wonderful heaven on earth. ”
– Natalie Griffith
"It was one of the most fun trips our family has ever had"
"I came here with my cousins for four days. It was one of the most fun trips our family has ever had! The lake was amazing and the water slide was so fun. Every day we boated around and ate snacks on the island and the beds in our cabin were very nice. I loved falling asleep to the sound of the frogs and crickets. The property is gorgeous and I definitely want to come back next year!”
– The 5 Griffith Kids (ages 13 to 3)
"Your love and compassion shows in the care you have invested..."
“I am incredibly blessed by your love and hospitality Sara and Nancy, you both have showered our group, Sacramento Hypnotherapy, retreat goers, so enormously that it has ensured our special experience. Your love and compassion shows in the care you have invested in the grounds, accommodations, and food, Thank you for everything, it as an enormous gift”
– Lorraine
Reviews from Google - ALL 5-STAR!
SunHawk Farms
2001 Duncan Springs Rd, Hopland
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A feeling of calmness and serenity envelops you the moment you arrive at SunHawk Farms. The beauty of the lake and the vibrance of the flowers and landscaping greet you as you enter the property. I had the opportunity to attend a weekend … More event there recently. John Schaeffer, the founder and owner, was a very gracious and consummate host. I, thoroughly, enjoyed conversing with John and playing Pickleball with him on his immaculate courts. All the equipment one needs to play is available, and there are lights for nighttime play.
The lake is incredible! One can swim, kayak, canoe, stand-up paddle board, go down the water slide, and zip line over the lake. Other amenities on the acreage include a ping pong table, corn hole, fire pit, hot tub, and a relaxing hammock. The outdoor kitchen is fully-equipped, and the patio has a gorgeous view of the lush grounds and sparkling lake. The hiking trails are scenic, and there’s a breathtaking lavender labyrinth not to be missed. The accommodations are extremely comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. The pride in ownership is evident, and I commend John and his family for the pristine property and tranquil retreat they’ve created.
SunHawk Farms is a wonderful place to celebrate any occasion. It’s the perfect setting to relax, rejuvenate, reconnect with nature, have fun, and share quality time with family and friends. I greatly look forward to returning. Not only am I excited about the prospect of enjoying another weekend there, but the thrill of a Pickleball rematch with John is enticing. I’ll never beat him, but I’ll feel privileged trying, yet again. -
I gave SunHawk a 5 star only because there was no 6 or 10 star choice. I stayed at SunHawk as part of a long weekend pickleball cohort. This place is fantastic and magical. The grounds are gorgeous and John and his family staff kind and … More generous. And those private pickleball courts brought out the best in all of us. I would - I will - go back in a heartbeat.
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Had an amazing time at Sunhawk Farms doing a 3 day pickleball camp! The property is absolutely beautiful, and the glamping tents were super clean and comfortable. John and his family were incredibly friendly and welcoming, you can tell … More they put a lot of heart into the place. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a fun, relaxing, and well-run pickleball getaway!
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SunHawk Farms exceeded my already high expectations! A magical place; peaceful, beautiful grounds and gardens, comfortable glamping tents, hot tub and lounging by the lake, wonderful food full of fresh produce- and gracious, welcoming, … More relaxed hosts. And don't forget the pickleball courts! A slice of heaven for sure....
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What an amazing oasis. This is the kind of gem that is rare to find and truly precious.
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Sunhawk was an absolute gem! I spent a weekend there in September for a pickleball camp and it was bliss. The beds in the glamping tents were very comfortable, the grounds and facilities were immaculate, John was a very welcoming host, … More there was a lake with a waterslide (!) and a floating island … what’s not to love. I can’t wait to go back to Sunhawk.
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Absolutely glorious setting with kind and welcoming hosts; deliciously homemade, fresh meals; beautiful swimming pond; super comfortable camping tents; and clean and comfortable facilities all around. 100 percent 5 star. Couldn’t ask for … More anything more.
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Had a great time at Sunhawk. Glamping tents are well appointed. There’s a lake, hot tub, outdoor showers, pickleball courts… There are such beautiful details everywhere. Great for large gathering. The outdoor kitchen had everything we needed. … More
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Incredible spot! Had a great time with all the kiddos and friends. Wonderful place for a reunion or a great relaxing time with the people you love.
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❤️ magical place made for a perfect weekend!
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A true gem in every way. We were charmed, romanced and in awe of all the incredible details from the decor in the rooms to the zipline and waterslide. The lawn was perfect for my large 40th birthday weekend with all the water toys a big … More group needs. A highlight was the tour John gave us of his home. We all are sustainability professionals and this place walks the talk and so much more. Really you won't regret booking this incredible spot!
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This place is pure magic! We had a fantastic stay with 35 friends for a birthday bash. John was a wonderful host.
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Wow I can’t say enough about how much I enjoyed my time at Sunhawk Farm without sounding like a total cheese ball 😂 It is such a magical place with something for everyone! We swam, we cooked, played pickle ball, relaxed, and had so many … More so much fun! All of the kids from 2-55 had a blast! Everything we needed was available. A stocked kitchen, paddle boards, boats, lounge chairs, hammocks, and the gorgeous water all to live for. We will definitely be back! I’m in love! I highly recommend making your way there and just unplugging from the hustle bustle and tuning back in to the natural world with all the amenities and each other!!!
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SunHawk farms is magical; From the zipline into the lake to the array of colorful flowers & fruit trees to the solar kitchen and all the nuances inbetween. This We all loved every element so much we are already talking about planning … More a trip next year.
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Absolutely magical place. Everything you could want and more
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Simply magical! Everything was just perfect. From the cozy beds to the beautiful spring fed lake.
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My husband and I fell in love with Sunhawk after attending a wedding there last summer, and were lucky enough to have our wedding at Sunhawk last week. You can't not smile at this place - it is paradise! Sara and John were incredibly … More generous, helpful, and caring and every single guest told us how blown away they were by the grounds and amenities. As an event venue it was stunning, but having a weekend full of fun and nature worshiping was far above and beyond anything we could have expected. From little kids playing on the waterslide and running after frogs, to grown ups hiking the grounds, picking apples, floating on the lake, and cooking up delicious treats in the well appointed outdoor kitchen, to the guests of honor relaxing in our luxurious rooms - it was sublime. Thank you for making our wedding dreams come true!!!
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We just attended a wedding a Sunhawk Farms and it was fantastic. The property is beautiful, with all the necessary facilities for a big event. Incredible views, beautiful grounds...It made my wife and I want to renew our vows just so we … More could use the place again. A great experience.
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I spent a weekend at Sunhawk Farms with family and friends celebrating a milestone birthday and could not imagine a better setting for the occasion. Sunhawk’s natural beauty is unmatched - from the pond sprinkled with lily pads, to the … More abundant flower and veggie gardens, to the surrounding wooded hills. The accommodations are also super comfortable, making for the perfect combination of nature and comfort. Our mixed age group took full advantage of all the amenities and opportunities for fun - swimming, paddling, and splashing in the pond, playing pickleball (under a full moon), cooking up feasts in the well-stocked outdoor kitchen. Our hosts John and Sara were welcoming, thorough, and easy to communicate with. We’re already dreaming of returning!
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The magic of this place is palpable. Off grid, and very special. We got married here!
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Magical Family Retreat
We just spent the most incredible weekend at Sunhawk with our friends, and I can't stop thinking about how perfect it was! From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed into something truly special.
The … More property itself is absolutely stunning - there's a sense of peace and natural beauty that immediately puts you at ease. Our son reconnected like old times with one of his best buddies- who we haven't seen in a while, playing freely in such a safe and beautiful environment while we adults could actually relax and enjoy meaningful conversation.
John has created something really magical here. The attention to detail, the warmth of the hospitality, and the way Sunhawk seems designed for connection and joy made our stay unforgettable. You can tell this place is run with genuine care and love.
Whether you're looking for a family getaway, a retreat with friends, or just a chance to disconnect from the everyday hustle, Sunhawk delivers in every way. We're already planning our next visit!
Thank you, John, for sharing this slice of paradise with families like ours. Sunhawk is truly a gem.
- Isabelle B. -
Sunhawk Farms is a special spot that anyone lucky enough to have the opportunity to visit will be happy they did! It’s ideallic, perfect for all ages. The vibe brought me back to my own childhood. A very clean and beautiful place with lots … More to do and beautiful grounds and facilities.
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Eco-paradise!
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Second time back and it was a great experience. Great site, great hosts, wonderful time.
Already planning for trip #3! -
Sunhawk Farms is, in a word, sublime.
Tucked into Mendocino wine country, it’s a balm, and a sensory playground—lakeside swims, hikes through olive groves, a lavender labyrinth, sunset pickleball, and dancing under the stars. The outdoor … More kitchen invites easy connection, and the glamping tents are cozy and romantic. It's delightful to explore the grounds and come across a hiddlen waterfall-temple and celestial markers. Everything is thoughtfully and smartly designed—from solar power to artistic touches. Restorative. Generous host. Great memories. Can’t recommend it enough. -
Wow what a magical place!
Delight in a luxurious cabin with a mosaic tiled bathroom or grapevine covered pergola patio, or lounge in a sumptuous glamping tent under a down comforter with bright colored tuffets.
Climb up on the rooftop … More of your cabin and gaze up at the stars or bask in the sun and zip line down. Ride the spiral water slide into the warm, spring fed pond.
Take a floatie out to the island, dive off the diving board, kayak out to find the hidden sculpture. Paddle board past a sea of perfect pink lily pads.
Enjoy a game of pickle ball. Cook up a sumptuous feast in the outdoor kitchen, lounge in the ambient seating, play your music and dance on the grass in the moonlight. Sink into the lakeside hot tub.
Wake up to a refreshing outdoor shower in the sunshine - everything fully solar powered - all engineered by the remarkable and very amiable owner John. Fellow Anthropologist, Cal grad and kindred spirit.
Well worth the fairly intrepid trip out here, every detail of this stunning place is impeccably and lovingly crafted for your relaxation and enjoyment.
This place is truly a hidden treasure.
(Photos taken by our crew during our stay) -
Beautiful place with carefully designed elements that adds a special experience. Solar power works great.
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To say Sunhawk farms is a cool place is a massive understatement - this place will blow your mind!
Nestled in the southeast corner of Mendocino county less than an hour north of if Santa Rosa airport, we spent four days in one of John's … More cool glam tents celebrating the longest day of the year with old friends. John has crafted an off-the-grid paradise, completely with solar and geothermal powered amenities. The spring fed lake was great for a daily swim with the spa and hot showers steps away. Two pro-level pickleball courts gave us lots of fun. There are two gourmet outdoor kitchen areas that served as our cocktail bar and breakfast stations. The lavender labyrinth is magic, and plenty of trails to hike or mountain bike (I brought my e-bike). His olive oil and wines are also tasty 🙂 Perfect for a group retreat to reset your mind....Kris -
Second year in a row! Loved it so much last year we came back and if anything it was better (except for the breezy weather. John, can you fix that for next time?!).
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SunHawk farms!Wow!What an amazing, beautiful place! … More
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The pictures do not capture the magic of this place. The air, the water, the grounds, the views, the kitchen, the lodging - all of it is extraordinary! And the most gracious hosts John and Sara (his daughter). Bonus - their olive oil & … More wine - devine! Thank you for sharing your space for our 50th celebrations!
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Spent a weekend at SunHawk with friends and we are already planning our next visit. John was a great host, but what really did it for me was the experience he and his family have created. From the solar-powered everything, to drinking water … More straight outta the ground, the feeling it gave off was intentional-efficient-luxury! Eco-luxury at its finest. The lake was perfect, the garden bountiful (thanks for the summer squashes!), and the vibe was simply fun! Can't wait to get back.
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Words really can't do justice to the level of care and intentionality that have gone into every aspect of this beautiful space. Every detail is gorgeous - it's truly a little slice of heaven, hidden in the hills.
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This was an unexpected slice of paradise! A Gem 😊 I thought I was coming to play and learn about pickleball… and I did.
However I had no idea it would be like extended family sharing meals, music and stories all together.
John and Sarah … More are wonderful hosts and human beings
Mila Mileshker (1000 thanks in Basque) -
Sunhawk Farms💕 John, our host was very accommodating throughout our pickleball camp. When it rained, John lead us through the magical lavender labyrinth with great intention, later played under the lights and then a next day a gorgeous … More sunshine filled day taking in all the goodness Sunhawk Farms offers. The attention to detail was evident, loved the outdoor showers, swimming I the lake and sliding down the very long slide. Summer Camp for adults. So fun I didn’t even take many photos but here’s a couple.
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I have been to SunHawk Farms twice and both times have been extremely enjoyable with a beautiful setting, an incredible lake with slide & zip line, two pickle ball courts, and super facilities. The host is a charming Cal grad who has … More great taste in music.
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Amazing place. We went for a weekend of pickleball camp and had a great time. The coaching, food, and facilities were all stellar. People were welcoming and friendly. It was hot out, so we also spent a lot of time in the lake, which was … More the … More
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This venue is absolutely perfect for gatherings of up to 50 people. It’s beautiful and bucolic, and it offers a natural ‘chill pit’ area to sit and talk comfortably. The glamping tents are really comfortable — and just a few steps away … More … More
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Went this July with my adult son, had great instruction, camaraderie, excellent food , and did I mention…..FUN, FUN FUN!! Love the location and accommodations … John is a great host!! Tom b
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This place is truly magical. The house and gardens are gorgeous. The lake is beautiful. Getting to spend time here, play pickleball and hang out with the newest residents, Sunny and Shady (kittens), was a dream come true
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We had such a nice group of pickleball players and in an amazing setting. There was lots of good coaching as well as plenty of time to hit for fun. The lake was refreshing and we used the water toys too. This would be a great place for … More a family reunion! The food was delicious and John was a charming host.
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We had the most magical and perfect wedding at SunHawk Farms. From the start of the planning process, John and Sara made it easy to map out and manifest our beautiful celebration. This place has everything you need to relax, play, dance … More and … More
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I attended the September pickleball camp at SunHawk Farms. Everything about the camp, including the organization, instruction, court time and particularly the wonderful venue, was terrific. Jack and Lena are professional coaches and … … More More
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SunHawk Farms is truly a gem! The moment you arrive, you can feel the great energy that surrounds this place. It offers a wonderful experience from start to finish, whether you’re soaking in the beauty of the jasmine-scented air or taking … More a … More
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A fantastic event, in Pickleball Heaven! Great instruction, a most inspiring setting, with excellent food and friendship!
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Just came back from my SECOND pickleball camp at SunHawk Farms in Hopland, CA. I couldn't recommend this experience more highly to anyone who loves pickleball. It's like a pickleball retreat - plenty of court time (structured … More and … More
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A huge and heartfelt shout-out to Sunhawk Farms. What a wonderful and magical place. We had an absolutely beautiful reunion event and it could not have been any more perfect. The venue had every amenity one could possibly need, a … More … More
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Such a wonderful place to spend quality time with friends and family. Lake, stars, garden, slides, pickleball, what else could you ask for! The hosts made sure we had everything we needed for a fantastic weekend.
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Our group of 13 friends and one baby rented Sunhawk for a weekend and didn't want to leave. The property is very well maintained and was accommodating with thoughtful details. You really don't need to bring much. It's truly … More a hidden gem! … More
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SunHawk is pure off the grid bliss! You will not want to leave! Nestled in the hills of Hopland, you will enjoy a fully inspiring and sustainable environment, which offers a mix of fun and relaxation. The holistic design and lush landscape … More … More
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This property is absolute heaven. It has everything you need for an amazing weekend in the country to swim, bbq, pickle ball and fully relax. The host is wonderful as well. Could not have been more responsive and prepared. Highly highly … More recommend!!!
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We had the BEST time at SunHawk Farms. It’s a quiet paradise close enough from San Francisco for a perfect weekend getaway of sunbathing, pickleball and lakeside relaxing. We can’t wait to come back and hopefully for a longer stay!
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This place is Shangri-la West! It's rustic luxury at its best, with the feeling of being in a secluded utopian world even though it's only 10 minutes from Hopland. The pickleball courts and instruction add a whole other dimension … More of awesomeness. It immediately became my #1 weekend getaway.
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My group and I had an amazing time at this property. Amazing location, with something to do for everyone. You can tell a lot of care and though has been put into this location. I will definitely be back.
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We rented the entire place out for a weekend birthday celebration and everything totally exceeded our expectations. The property is gorgeous with tons of amazing details all throughout the on-site houses. Completely off grid and sustainable … More … More
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SunHawk is one of the most peaceful, fun, restful, good energy places I have ever been lucky enough to visit. Sliding down the dusty Hopland hills into SunHawk feels like entering an oasis, the full pond, water slide, and surrounding … … More More
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To be honest, I hesitate to rate this place because it feels more like a secret sanctuary and I don't want the world to discover it. Anyway how do you rate paradise? Everywhere one looks, there is beauty in the land and all the human-made … More … More
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We spent one of the most dreamy weekends here.One could sense the amount of thought that was given to every little detail. Just perfect 🙂 we are feeling so lucky to discover this beautiful piece of heaven. The host was very responsive … More and flexible to our needs. We would definitely be back
