Stepping onto these 104 acres in the Santa Cruz Mountains changes everything. When you are looking for a place to honor someone you love, the Amphitheater of the Redwoods at Pema Osel Ling offers a sanctuary of light, memory, and enduring peace—the perfect setting to celebrate a life beautifully lived. Walking into our main ceremony space feels like stepping into a natural cathedral. You descend a grand entrance staircase, emerging between two ancient, towering trees to stand on a magnificent wooden deck completely cradled by a majestic ring of redwoods. This quiet forest nook offers a breathtaking, peaceful intimacy for family and friends to gather, share stories, and honor a loved one, without requiring anyone to hike deep into the wilderness. For a different perspective of hope and transition, our Bay View Terrace stands on a level deck opening up to panoramic views of the Monterey Bay, offering a vast, beautiful horizon to reflect upon. The journey of this land is deeply rooted in peace and healing. Discovered on a rainy morning in 1990 by Lama Tharchin Rinpoche, an accomplished Tibetan Buddhist Lama, the property became Pema Osel Ling—which translates to “Lotus Land of Clear Light.” Today, it is run by the Vajrayana Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to fostering goodwill in the world. Guests of all faiths and backgrounds are welcomed with open arms. Many find deep solace taking a quiet stroll down our forest trail to the Stupa World Peace Park or visiting our traditional Shrine area. A celebration of life here is meant to be a gentle, unhurried experience. We offer expansive outdoor spaces like our Celebration Lawn, featuring a built-in gazebo and flagstone patio for a reception, as well as our indoor Celebration Hall, a light-filled space complete with skylights and a cozy wood-burning stove. Because honoring a lifetime shouldn’t be rushed into a few brief hours, we also provide on-site lodging—including cabins, a yurt, and spacious houses—so your closest circle can stay together, breathe the mountain air, and find comfort in community.