MyLivingChoice

The Sequoias Portola Valley

501 Portola Road

4.6(29 ratings)

The Sequoias Portola Valley, photo 11 / 5

Quick Facts

Total units
328
Medicare rating
5 of 5

CMS Care Compare

Ownership
Non profit, Corporation
Certified beds
43
Licensed operator
Sequoia Living, Inc.
Pet policy
Dogs and cats allowed within weight limits
On-site medical support
On-site clinic with 24-hour emergency call system

What Families Think

Reviewers consistently praise the quality of clinical and rehabilitative care at The Sequoias, particularly in skilled nursing, with staff described as attentive, professional, and knowledgeable. A few concerns were raised about a guest room's outdated layout and a lapse in privacy, though the overall sentiment remains strongly positive.

The Good

  • Skilled nursing care praised as outstanding and professional
  • Staff described as knowledgeable, respectful, and attentive
  • Physical and occupational therapy highlighted as excellent
  • Rooms cleaned daily with well-maintained, attractive grounds
  • Recommended by Stanford Hospital for skilled nursing needs

The Bad

  • One report of a poorly designed, non-ADA guest bathroom
  • One report of staff entering a resident's room without knocking
  • No published pricing information available

AI-generated from reviews and community data.

The Sequoias Portola Valley is a senior living community in Portola Valley, California offering Assisted Living, Independent Living and Skilled Nursing / Long Term Care. Amenities include Guest Meals, Restaurant style Dining Room and Outdoor Patio. Families rate it 4.6 out of 5 across 29 reviews.

About The Sequoias Portola Valley

The Sequoias Portola Valley is a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) in Portola Valley, California, situated on 42 acres in San Mateo County west of Stanford University. The community offers independent living in elegant single-story homes with private patios and gardens, as well as assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing care for residents who require higher levels of support.

The community provides a continuum of healthcare services supported by an on-site clinic and 24-hour emergency call systems. Monthly fees cover meals, housekeeping, linen service, utilities, transportation, fitness and wellness activities, private dining and meeting rooms, and on-site services. Residents are responsible for Medicare co-payments and deductibles through supplemental health insurance.

Life enrichment opportunities abound at The Sequoias, with activities including painting, pottery, woodworking, bridge, Mahjong, card games, and gardening. Residents participate in committees that give them a voice in community governance and are encouraged to volunteer and contribute. Hiking trails connect the 42-acre grounds to an adjacent 1,200-acre preserve at Windy Hill, offering extensive opportunities to explore natural surroundings and scenic views.

The community is located minutes from Portola Valley's shops, restaurants, and cultural offerings, with a premier shopping and dining destination approximately 15 minutes away. Residents enjoy neighboring a region rich in open space and natural beauty, creating an atmosphere conducive to lifelong growth and engagement.

The Sequoias Portola Valley welcomes dogs and cats within weight limits and may accept other small pets that do not pose a danger to residents and staff. The minimum age for residency is 60 years old. The community is owned and operated by Sequoia Living, a nonprofit organization founded in 1958 that oversees seven communities and community service programs throughout Northern California.

Types of Care at The Sequoias Portola Valley

Assisted LivingIndependent LivingSkilled Nursing / Long Term Care

Amenities

Room Amenities

  • Cable or Satellite TV
  • Emergency Call System
  • Private Bathroom
  • Private Rooms
  • Wheelchair Accessible

Meals & Dining

  • Dietary Accommodations (Gluten-Free, Low / No Sodium, No Sugar, Vegan)
  • Guest Meals
  • Restaurant style Dining Room

Community Amenities

  • 24-Hour Staff
  • Chapel / Religious Services
  • Gathering / Activity Spaces
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry Service
  • Medication Management
  • On-Site Nurse (RN)
  • Outdoor Patio
  • Pet Friendly
  • Salon / Barber
  • Security
  • Transportation Services
  • Walking Paths

Activities

  • Arts and Crafts
  • Birthday / Holiday Parties
  • Day Trips and Outings
  • Games
  • Gardening Club
  • Religious Services
  • Social Activities (Happy Hour, Wine Tasting, Dances, Karaoke)

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Help Me Choose

Reviews of The Sequoias Portola Valley

4.6overall · 29 ratings combined

4.6★ on Google (29)

AVRIL HODGES

May 2026

via Google

The care at this facility is outstanding, professional and friendly. In particular Certified Nurse Assistant David Camacho tops the list for going beyond the call in providing great attention to detail, assuring you have everything you need with a smile and humor. He really brightens your stay.

Nilufer Green

Oct 2025

via Google

We searched the bay area to find the best place for Skilled Nursing help for my dad. The Sequoias turned out to be true to its reputation. The ENTIRE staff was well trained, respectful, knowledgeable, helpful and kind. They were organized and shared expectations in an orientation style meeting with our family when we first arrived. I really liked how they shared each person's role who will care for him. The PT and OT was great too. I hope we never need SNF again, but if we do, this is where we will be. Not to mention the beautiful drive there and the beautiful rooms with views of the gardens. Thank you all! The Surty Family

Steve Lamoree

Sep 2025

via Google

I was recently discharged from The Sequoias SNF Portola Valley after 5-week stay following hip surgery. They were highly recommended by Stanford Hospital, and Stanford had it right. Everyone--nurses, CNAs, physical and occupational therapists, dietitian, and admin staff--were attentive and responsive to my needs, very knowledgeable and professional, and easy to work with. The food was good and selected to fit my dietary requirements. The rooms were cleaned daily, the grounds were attractive and well-maintained, and the setting beautiful. I can't recommend it highly enough.

Bonnie Meeder

Jul 2022

via Google

Our mother lives here. We recently stayed in one of the front guest rooms. It was horrible. There was no closet, no place to hang our clothes. The bathroom sink was ridiculous (tiny). I've never seen a sink so small. The toilet was very low - not ADA. Not sure why they replaced the two twin beds with one larger one. Didn't seem to be as much room as the already-small room was before the remodel. Also, there should be a Do Not Disturb sign for the door - a maid came right in while we were still sleeping.

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Government Inspection History

3 inspection visits in the last three years, 43 citations on file. Inspections are conducted by state agencies on behalf of the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Aug 7, 2025Fire Safety StandardHealth Standard12 citations
  • Have generator or other power source capable of supplying service within 10 seconds.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Sep 5, 2025

  • Procure food from sources approved or considered satisfactory and store, prepare, distribute and serve food in accordance with professional standards.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Aug 29, 2025

  • Develop the complete care plan within 7 days of the comprehensive assessment; and prepared, reviewed, and revised by a team of health professionals.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Aug 29, 2025

  • Provide pharmaceutical services to meet the needs of each resident and employ or obtain the services of a licensed pharmacist.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Aug 29, 2025

  • Implement a program that monitors antibiotic use.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Aug 29, 2025

  • Install corridor and hallway doors that block smoke.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Aug 22, 2025

  • Give residents notice of Medicaid/Medicare coverage and potential liability for services not covered.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Aug 29, 2025

  • Meet requirements for the use of electrical equipment.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Aug 22, 2025

  • Properly select, install, inspect, or maintain portable fire extinguishes.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Aug 22, 2025

  • Ensure proper usage of power strips and extension cords.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Aug 22, 2025

  • Inspect, test, and maintain automatic sprinkler systems.

    Severity C of L: potential for minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Aug 22, 2025

  • Have simulated fire drills held at unexpected times.

    Severity C of L: potential for minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Aug 22, 2025

May 24, 2024Fire Safety StandardHealth ComplaintHealth Standard21 citations
  • Procure food from sources approved or considered satisfactory and store, prepare, distribute and serve food in accordance with professional standards.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Jul 1, 2024

  • Establish staff and initial training requirements.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Jun 26, 2024

  • Have approved installation, maintenance and testing program for fire alarm systems.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Jun 26, 2024

  • Properly provide smoke detection systems in areas open to corridors.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Jun 26, 2024

  • Have simulated fire drills held at unexpected times.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Jun 26, 2024

  • Have generator or other power source capable of supplying service within 10 seconds.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Jun 26, 2024

  • Conduct testing and exercise requirements.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Jun 26, 2024

  • Install emergency lighting that can last at least 1 1/2 hours.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Jun 26, 2024

  • Have properly located and lighted "Exit" signs.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Jun 26, 2024

  • Inspect, test, and maintain automatic sprinkler systems.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Jun 26, 2024

  • Ensure drugs and biologicals used in the facility are labeled in accordance with currently accepted professional principles; and all drugs and biologicals must be stored in locked compartments, separately locked, compartments for controlled drugs.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jul 1, 2024

  • Develop and implement a complete care plan that meets all the resident's needs, with timetables and actions that can be measured.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jul 1, 2024

  • Ensure each resident receives an accurate assessment.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jul 1, 2024

  • Encode each resident’s assessment data and transmit these data to the State within 7 days of assessment.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jul 1, 2024

  • Honor the resident's right to a safe, clean, comfortable and homelike environment, including but not limited to receiving treatment and supports for daily living safely.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jul 1, 2024

  • Have proper medical gas storage and administration areas.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jun 26, 2024

  • Install corridor and hallway doors that block smoke.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jun 26, 2024

  • Provide properly protected cooking facilities.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jun 26, 2024

  • Ensure that nurses and nurse aides have the appropriate competencies to care for every resident in a way that maximizes each resident's well being.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Jul 1, 2024

  • Implement gradual dose reductions(GDR) and non-pharmacological interventions, unless contraindicated, prior to initiating or instead of continuing psychotropic medication; and PRN orders for psychotropic medications are only used when the medication is necessary and PRN use is limited.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jul 1, 2024

  • Electronically submit to CMS complete and accurate direct care staffing information, based on payroll and other verifiable and auditable data.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jul 1, 2024

Dec 30, 2021Fire Safety StandardHealth Standard10 citations
  • Have approved installation, maintenance and testing program for fire alarm systems.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Jan 31, 2022

  • Dispose of garbage and refuse properly.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Jan 27, 2022

  • Provide and implement an infection prevention and control program.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Jan 27, 2022

  • Create and put into place a plan for meeting the resident's most immediate needs within 48 hours of being admitted

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Jan 27, 2022

  • Ensure services provided by the nursing facility meet professional standards of quality.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Jan 27, 2022

  • Ensure that special areas are constructed so that walls can resist fire for one hour or have an approved fire extinguishing system.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jan 31, 2022

  • Ensure drugs and biologicals used in the facility are labeled in accordance with currently accepted professional principles; and all drugs and biologicals must be stored in locked compartments, separately locked, compartments for controlled drugs.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jan 27, 2022

  • Provide enough food/fluids to maintain a resident's health.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jan 27, 2022

  • Meet requirements for the use of electrical equipment.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jan 31, 2022

  • Inspect, test, and maintain automatic sprinkler systems.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jan 31, 2022

Source: CMS Care Compare, public federal data covering certified nursing facilities, refreshed monthly. Citations range from A (least serious) to L (most serious) on the federal scope and severity scale. Most citations are corrected quickly; review the details and ask the community about anything that concerns you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of care does The Sequoias Portola Valley offer?

The Sequoias Portola Valley offers Assisted Living, Independent Living and Skilled Nursing / Long Term Care.

Is The Sequoias Portola Valley pet friendly?

Yes. The Sequoias Portola Valley lists pet-friendly accommodations among its amenities. Ask about any size or breed policies when you visit.

Where is The Sequoias Portola Valley located?

The Sequoias Portola Valley is located at 501 Portola Road in Portola Valley, California.

What do families say about The Sequoias Portola Valley?

Reviewers consistently praise the quality of clinical and rehabilitative care at The Sequoias, particularly in skilled nursing, with staff described as attentive, professional, and knowledgeable. A few concerns were raised about a guest room's outdated layout and a lapse in privacy, though the overall sentiment remains strongly positive.

How did The Sequoias Portola Valley do on recent health and safety inspections?

The Sequoias Portola Valley had 3 government inspection visits in the last three years, with 43 citations on file according to CMS Care Compare data. The full history, including what each citation was for and whether it was corrected, is in the inspection section on this page.

How can families visit The Sequoias Portola Valley?

Submit the Request Information form on this page to connect with The Sequoias Portola Valley and arrange a tour. Sharing your timeline and care needs up front helps the community prepare for your visit.

Work at The Sequoias Portola Valley? Claim this listing to update photos, pricing, and details. It's free.

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