8/10 Good
Karen L., Anchorage
Mar 18, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great location
Karen L.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025
Entire home
Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis
Vacation home near Balboa Park in San Diego
Choose dates to view prices
Photo gallery for Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis
Reviews
9.69.6 out of 10
Exceptional
Entire home
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 10130 sq m
Popular amenities
- Pool
- Hot tub
- Kitchen
- Washer
- Dryer
- Pet friendly
Explore the area
San Diego, CA
- San Diego Black Ensemble TheaterPlace, San Diego Black Ensemble Theater7 min walk
- Balboa ParkPlace, Balboa Park3 min drive
- San Diego ZooPlace, San Diego Zoo4 min drive
- San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)Airport, San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)9 min drive
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About the area
San Diego
University Heights stay.Your stay at this University Heights vacation home places you within 2 miles (3 km) of Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo. San Diego Natural History Museum and Mission Valley Mall are also within 2 miles (3 km).
What's nearby
- San Diego Black Ensemble Theater - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
- Diversionary Theatre - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
- Balboa Park - 3 min drive - 2.7 km
- San Diego Zoo - 4 min drive - 2.3 km
- Balboa Park Carousel - 5 min drive - 2.7 km
Getting around
- Hazard Center Station - 4 min drive
- Old Town Transit Center - 12 min drive
- San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN) - 18 min drive
Restaurants
- McDonald's - 7 min walk
- Pecs Bar - 9 min walk
- Denny's - 9 min walk
- Lestat's on Park - 9 min walk
- TapRoom Beer Company - 2 min walk
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis
Welcome to the Artistic Retreat in University Heights!
Experience the charm and elegance of this exquisite four-bedroom historic home, thoughtfully designed by renowned San Diego artist Mario Torero. Nestled in the heart of University Heights, this stunning retreat seamlessly blends historic character with modern luxury.
Artful Living: Marvel at the beauty of over 50 original paintings and limited edition giclées by Mario Torero, each piece adding a unique touch of color and creativity to your stay.
Modern ComfortsThe newly updated kitchen is a culinary haven, equipped with all the modern amenities you need to prepare gourmet meals. Enjoy meals in the spacious dining area or step outside to the inviting patio with BBQ and outdoor seating for al fresco dining.
Relax and Unwind: Dive into the refreshing pool or lounge on the patio, where you'll find ample seating for relaxation. The home is designed with your comfort in mind, featuring central AC and heating, WiFi, and a smart TV for your entertainment.
Family and Pet Friendly:This retreat is perfect for families and pet lovers alike, offering a welcoming environment for everyone. With ample space and thoughtful amenities, you and your furry friends will feel right at home.
Work and Play: For those who need to stay connected, the home provides a comfortable work-from-home setup.
Prime Location: Just ten minutes from all major San Diego attractions, you’ll have easy access to everything this vibrant city has to offer, from beautiful beaches to world-class dining and entertainment.
Book your stay at this artistic haven and enjoy a unique blend of historic charm and contemporary comfort, all in a prime San Diego location!
Experience the charm and elegance of this exquisite four-bedroom historic home, thoughtfully designed by renowned San Diego artist Mario Torero. Nestled in the heart of University Heights, this stunning retreat seamlessly blends historic character with modern luxury.
Artful Living: Marvel at the beauty of over 50 original paintings and limited edition giclées by Mario Torero, each piece adding a unique touch of color and creativity to your stay.
Modern ComfortsThe newly updated kitchen is a culinary haven, equipped with all the modern amenities you need to prepare gourmet meals. Enjoy meals in the spacious dining area or step outside to the inviting patio with BBQ and outdoor seating for al fresco dining.
Relax and Unwind: Dive into the refreshing pool or lounge on the patio, where you'll find ample seating for relaxation. The home is designed with your comfort in mind, featuring central AC and heating, WiFi, and a smart TV for your entertainment.
Family and Pet Friendly:This retreat is perfect for families and pet lovers alike, offering a welcoming environment for everyone. With ample space and thoughtful amenities, you and your furry friends will feel right at home.
Work and Play: For those who need to stay connected, the home provides a comfortable work-from-home setup.
Prime Location: Just ten minutes from all major San Diego attractions, you’ll have easy access to everything this vibrant city has to offer, from beautiful beaches to world-class dining and entertainment.
Book your stay at this artistic haven and enjoy a unique blend of historic charm and contemporary comfort, all in a prime San Diego location!
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Property amenities
Pool/Spa
- Heated pool
- Hot tub
- Private pool
Internet
- Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transportation
- Parking on site
Kitchen
- Coffee/tea maker
- Cookware, dishware, and utensils
- Dishwasher
- Kitchen island
- Microwave
- Oven
- Refrigerator
- Stovetop
- Toaster
Dining
- Dining table
Bedrooms
- 4 bedrooms
- Bedsheets provided
- Sofa bed
Bathroom
- 2 bathrooms
- Hair dryer
- Towels provided
Living spaces
- Dining table
Entertainment
- Games
- Smart TV
Outdoor areas
- Barbecue grill
- Fenced yard
- Garden
- Patio
Laundry
- Laundry facilities
- Washing machine
Work spaces
- Desk
- Office
- Printer
Comfort
- Air conditioning
- Heating
Pets
- Pet friendly
- Welcoming dogs only
- One pet total (up to 50 lbs per pet)
Suitability/Accessibility
- Smoking not allowed
Services and conveniences
- Change of bedsheets (on request)
- Change of towels on request
- Iron/ironing board
Things to do
- Heated pool
Safety features
- Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
- Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
- First aid kit
- Fire extinguisher
- Deadbolt lock
General
- At least 80% lighting from LEDs
- Bed sheets changed on request
- Cleaning products are eco-friendly
- Composting
- Comprehensive food waste policy
- Comprehensive recycling policy
- Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
- Garden
- Local artist showcase
- Local culture and ecosystem education
- Locally-owned and organized tours and activities
- Reusable coffee/tea filters
- Towels (changed on request)
- Unit size: 1,400 square feet
- Water-efficient toilets
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Rules
No Parties or Events: Parties and events are strictly prohibited. We have a zero-tolerance policy.
Local Reservations: Reservations from guests within their city of residence are not allowed. Please contact us if you are booking within your city.
Pets
- Pets are welcome
- Only dogs are allowed
- Maximum 1 (weight limit: 50 lbs per pet)
- Service animals are exempt from fees
Children and extra beds
- Children are welcome.
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
- This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.
Property Registration Number STR-10341L, 645432
Property is also known as
2053b85a-38a7-456c-a565-4a0ea4366f90
Frequently asked questions
How close is Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis to the airport?
This vacation home is 5.5 mi (18-min drive) away from the San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.
How much does it cost to stay at Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis?
As of May 19, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis on Jun 1, 2026 start from CA $481, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Does Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis have an airport shuttle?
Airport shuttle services are not available at this vacation home.
How close is Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis to the beach?
This vacation home is 8.3 mi (22-min drive) from Mission Beach and 7.7 mi (21-min drive) from Coronado Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!
Does Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis offer free breakfast?
This vacation home does not offer free breakfast.
Is there a casino at Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis?
No, there is no casino at this vacation home.
What time is check-in at Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
Is there free parking at Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis?
Free parking is not available at this vacation home.
Does Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis have a pool?
Yes, there's a private pool.
Does Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis have a spa?
There are no spa services available at this vacation home.
How close is Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis to downtown San Diego?
This vacation home is 2.8 mi away from San Diego.
Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis Reviews
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 3 out of 4 reviews
10 - Excellent
3
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 4 reviews
8 - Good
1
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 4 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 4 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 4 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
10/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Diane C.
Jan 20, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Diane C.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Karen A.
Dec 13, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely stay
Our entire party loved the property. Walking distance to grocery and pub, close to all the San Diego hot spots! The separate bedrooms were great (queen size beds) and we enjoyed the outdoor space during the day (working grill, spacious seating area to enjoy the sun). The kitchen is FULLY stocked, so making a feast was easy. We found something new in the art every day and also enjoyed the selection of art books in the living room. Sarah (our host) was extremely helpful every step of the way. Definitely recommend this property!!!
Karen A.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Arlene G.
Sep 16, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Weekend getaway
Definitely recommend this stay!
Such a beautiful home and roomy! my friends and family had such an amazing time here. Super close to everything & so convenient.
Sarah & Mario were so friendly and welcoming, made sure we were all set up and were super communicative with whatever we needed. We are definitely coming back again! Thank you for having us!
Arlene G.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024