Entire home

Expansive Home in San Diego, AC, Updated, near Downtown-Beaches and the Zoo!

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Exterior - Expansive Home in San Diego, AC, Updated, near Downtown-Beaches and the Zoo! (San Diego)
Point of interest - Expansive Home in San Diego, AC, Updated, near Downtown-Beaches and the Zoo! (San Diego)
Point of interest - Expansive Home in San Diego, AC, Updated, near Downtown-Beaches and the Zoo! (San Diego)
Beach - Expansive Home in San Diego, AC, Updated, near Downtown-Beaches and the Zoo! (San Diego)
Outdoor dining - Expansive Home in San Diego, AC, Updated, near Downtown-Beaches and the Zoo! (San Diego)
Consider a stay at Expansive Home in San Diego, AC, Updated, near Downtown-Beaches and the Zoo! and take advantage of a firepit, a garden and a playground. Stay connected with free in-room WiFi.

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent

Entire home

5 bedrooms3 bathrooms246 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space
  • Barbecue

Add dates for prices

About this property

Expansive Home in San Diego, AC, Updated, near Downtown-Beaches and the Zoo!

  • A rare opportunity awaits in San Diego. This expansive 5-bedroom, 3-bath residence (approx. 2,652 SqFt) masterfully blends vintage character with modern sophistication. Designed with comfort, style, and relaxation in mind, the home showcases classic architectural details paired with contemporary updates. Experience timeless elegance in this beautifully restored historic retreat. A luxurious setting thoughtfully curated for memorable and elevated stays.

    Kitchen, Living room, Grand Family room and Dining room:

    The kitchen is designed to delight any gourmet chef, featuring a bright and open layout with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and maple cabinetry. Equipped with a gas stove/oven, cooking pans, baking trays, toaster, drip coffee maker, Keurig coffee machine, microwave, and 2 refrigerators, it offers both style and functionality. A striking arched breakfast island nook flows seamlessly into a spacious dining room that accommodates 10+ guests, complemented by an additional bench and three bar stools—perfect for entertaining and family gatherings. The dining area boasts elegant built-ins, while fireplaces in the family and formal living rooms serve as aesthetic focal points, enhancing the ambiance with warm, mood-setting lighting. The grand family room, featuring a large TV and two generous seating areas, opens to a stunning backyard through double glass doors, offering a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication.

    Bedroom Details for 5 bedrooms:

    • Main Bedroom 1 – "Artist" (Downstairs): Features a queen bed, nightstands with lamps, a ceiling fan, a mirror, and a TV.
    • Main Bedroom 2 – "Flamingo" (Upstairs): Offers a queen bed with an ensuite bathroom, dual closets, a built-in wall-to-wall closet, nightstands with lamps, a ceiling fan, a large floor mirror, a desk, and a chair.
    • Bedroom 3 – "Marilyn Monroe" (Upstairs): Includes a full-size bed, nightstands with lamps, a ceiling fan, mirrors, a desk, and a chair.
    • Bedroom 4 – "Panda" (Downstairs): Features a double bed, a nightstand with a lamp, a ceiling fan, and a TV.
    • Bedroom 5 – "Twinsies" (Upstairs): A new bedroom was added on 4/19/2026. Includes two single beds, a nightstand, a ceiling fan, and mirrors.

    Bathroom Details for 3 bathrooms:

    • En-suite Bathroom (Upstairs Main Bedroom 2): Private bathroom attached to the master bedroom.
    • Front Bathroom: Located toward the front of the house, featuring a bathtub.
    • Back Bathroom: Situated at the rear of the house, equipped with a spacious shower.

    Backyard Features:

    • Large Deck: Equipped with a BBQ, lounging chairs, and a firepit for relaxation and entertaining.
    • Cabana: Features a comfortable outdoor seating area.
    • Outdoor Dining: Includes a spacious dining table for alfresco meals.

    Amenities & Location:

    • Home Features: Central heating and air conditioning, expansive master closets, and elegant built-ins in the formal living and dining rooms. The home comes equipped with a Keurig Coffee Maker, so you can start your mornings with a fresh cup of coffee.
    • Parking: Driveway accommodates up to two vehicles, with ample street parking available.
    • Prime Location: Situated in one of San Diego’s most desirable neighborhoods, offering convenience and vibrant surroundings.
    o Nearby Attractions:
    - 10 minutes to airport
    - 5 minutes to Balboa Park
    - 10 minutes to Sea World
    - 10 minutes to the beach
    -15 minutes to Petco Park
    - 5 minutes to the world-famous San Diego Zoo
    - 5 minutes to Fashion Valley and Mission Valley shopping
    - 10 minutes from Downtown San Diego, Little Italy, and Old Town
    o Education: Close to award-winning schools, including Alice Birney Elementary.
    o Local Hotspots: Surrounded by trendy bars, upscale restaurants, boutique shops, coffee houses, and artist studios.
    o Adjacent neighborhoods include: Hillcrest, Mission Hills, North Park, Bankers Hill, Normal Heights, Kensington, South Park, Little Italy, Old Town and Downtown.
    o Recreation: Enjoy the convenience of a highly walkable neighborhood with an impressive Walk Score of 87. Walking distance to Trolley Barn Park, a family-friendly spot known for free summer concerts on Friday evenings.
    Experience the perfect blend of relaxation, entertainment, and convenience—your ideal San Diego retreat awaits!

    House Rules & Policies:

    • Crib/Pac ’n Play: Available to rent for $50 each.
    • Cleaning: Please follow checkout steps to avoid an extra fee.
    • Age to Book: Primary guest must be 30+.
    • ID: Quick government ID check for a smooth check-in.
    • No Smoking: Anywhere on the property (inside or outside).
    • No Pets: Including emotional support animals.
    • Noise & Parties: Please keep things peaceful—no parties or events.
    • Cameras: Exterior security cameras only at the front of the house, facing outward. No indoor cameras.
    • Quiet Hours: 10 pm – 7 am.
    • Guests Only: Only registered guests allowed on-site. No visitors or unregistered guests are allowed on the property at any time. The number of guests at check-in must match the number listed on the reservation.
    – Example: If your reservation is for 5 guests but you arrive with 8, this is a violation of the booking terms. In such cases, check-in will be strictly denied, no exceptions will be made.
    • All guest names must be submitted through the booking platform in advance. Only registered guests will be permitted on the property. Guest List: Reservation must match actual guest count.
    • Rule Violation: Breaking rules may lead to cancellation & eviction.
    • Notice to All Guests (To be signed by the primary guest at check-in):
    For the safety, privacy, and security of this property, only registered guests listed on the reservation are permitted on the property. No visitors or unregistered guests are allowed on the property at any time. Any violation of this rule will result in immediate cancellation, eviction without notice, and forfeiture of all payments. This policy is absolute and strictly enforced. Breaking any rule will generate immediate eviction. Pls be dutiful!

    • For the safety, security, and preservation of the property, guests are strictly prohibited from bringing, operating, storing, or charging any motorized or recreational vehicles/equipment on the premises. This includes, but is not limited to, motorcycles, three-wheelers, quads, dirt bikes, mountain bikes, gravel bikes, hybrid bikes, electric bikes (e-bikes), folding bikes, BMX bikes, cruisers, scooters, golf carts, ATVs, and any similar motorized or non-motorized recreational equipment.

    In addition, guests may not store or use outdoor recreational or sporting equipment on the property, including but not limited to kayaks, paddleboards, scuba diving gear, hunting equipment, fishing gear, or related items. Charging of electric vehicles (EVs), hybrids vehicles, electric bikes, scooters, or other battery-powered equipment is also strictly prohibited unless prior written approval has been provided by management.

    These restrictions are enforced to ensure the safety and comfort of all occupants, minimize potential hazards and property damage, maintain cleanliness and accessibility of the premises, and comply with homeowner rules and insurance requirements. Failure to comply with these policies may result in additional fees, removal of prohibited items, cancellation of the reservation, or immediate termination of occupancy without refund.

    Check-In:
    • Age & ID: Lead guest must be 30+ and provide valid ID. Also, an agreement will be signed upon arrival confirming that no guests or visitors are allowed.
    • Guest List: Reservation must match actual guest count. No unregistered guests allowed.

    Check-Out:
    • Guide: See the red folder on the kitchen island.
    • Before You Leave:
    o Leave used towels on the floor.
    o Please do not strip the beds.
    o Load and run the dishwasher.
    o Tidy up and remove personal trash.
    o If you moved any furniture or items, return them to their original place.
    o Lock all doors/windows.
    o Trash in outdoor bins (curb Wed night if applicable).
    o Turn off lights/appliances and lock front door.

    Safety Features:

    • Fire Extinguisher: Located in the kitchen under the sink for emergency use.
    • Smoke Detectors & Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Installed throughout the property to ensure guest safety and compliance with safety regulations.

    Experience the Heart of San Diego from a Home with Vintage Charm: What I love most about my home is its unbeatable central location—just minutes from some of San Diego’s most vibrant neighborhoods. In the summer, one of my favorite activities is strolling to nearby Trolley Barn Park to enjoy free live concerts by local bands. These concerts take place every Friday evening in July and on the first Friday of August, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. I often bring a picnic blanket, and grab takeout from my favorite Plumeria Vegetarian Restaurant. I usually treat myself to the Fresh Spring Rolls, Spicy Basil Fried Rice, and Green Curry with Mock Duck.

    The home itself is full of unique vintage character and charm, offering a warm and welcoming space to unwind. One of my favorite ways to start the day is relaxing in the backyard with a cup of coffee, listening to the birds and soaking in the peaceful surroundings. The perfect little moment of calm before the day begins. Your sanctuary in the heart of it all.

    If you're looking for a stay that combines charm, comfort, and walkable access to San Diego’s best neighborhoods and local experiences, you’ll feel right at home here.

    Please note: For stays exceeding 30 days, kindly contact the host prior to booking and inquire about our special rates for extended stays!

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 5 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 3 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 3 accessible parking spaces
  • 3 steps to reach entrance
  • Area rugs in public areas
  • Handrails in stairways
  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • Smooth flooring in public areas
  • Thin carpet in public areas
  • Tile flooring in public areas
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Change of towels on request
  • Housekeeping on request
  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near a zoo

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)
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Bed sheets changed on request
  • Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
  • Garden
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Recycling
  • Towels (changed on request)
  • Unit size: 2,652 square feet
  • Water-efficient showers
  • Water-efficient toilets

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age - 30

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

An adult aged 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

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Turn off the AC/heat. Close all windows & blinds. Lock the glass sliding door. Ensure the BBQ is turned off. Ensure the fire pit is turned off. Leave any used towels on the floor. Do not strip deds.
Please make sure to check-out at 11:00 am or sooner as my cleaning crew will be accessing the property promptly at 11:00 am No permission will be granted for a later check-out. This is not negotiable!
Kindly refer to the red folder placed on the kitchen counter/bar. All of these instructions are clearly outlined within that folder. Thank you kindly for securing our home before your departure.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

-No parties, events or loud noise/music in the outdoor areas. Curfew M-F is 10 pm-8 am. Curfew on the weekend is 10 pm - 8 am.
No smoking on the property or surrounding areas, such as: backyard, patio, etc... Breaking any rule will generate immediate eviction. Pls be dutiful!
A valid photo ID may be required at check-in for verification purposes.

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Note from host: Children books, games. Pac and play upon request.

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
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
Property Registration Number 654905, STR-13138L

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

About the area

University Heights, a neighbourhood in San Diego, is home to this holiday home. Port of San Diego and B Street Cruise Ship Terminal are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's popular attractions can visit San Diego Zoo and USS Midway Museum. Check out an event or a game at Petco Park, and consider making time for Waterfront Park, a top attraction not to be missed. Visit our San Diego travel guide
View more Holiday homes in San Diego
Map
San Diego, CA

What's nearby

  • Balboa Park
    Balboa Park
    4 min drive - 3.0 km
  • Diversionary Theatre
    5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • J.A. Cooley Museum
    8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • San Diego Black Ensemble Theater
    10 min walk - 0.9 km
  • The Rail
    4 min drive - 2.3 km

Getting around

  • Mission Valley Center Station
    4 min drive
  • Old Town Transit Center
    12 min drive
  • San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)
    19 min drive

Restaurants

  • Denny's
    4 min drive
  • Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar
    4 min drive
  • Lestat's on Park
    4 min walk
  • TapRoom Beer Company
    12 min walk
  • Cheers
    9 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Expansive Home in San Diego, AC, Updated, near Downtown-Beaches and the Zoo! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Expansive Home in San Diego, AC, Updated, near Downtown-Beaches and the Zoo!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Expansive Home in San Diego, AC, Updated, near Downtown-Beaches and the Zoo!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Expansive Home in San Diego, AC, Updated, near Downtown-Beaches and the Zoo!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Expansive Home in San Diego, AC, Updated, near Downtown-Beaches and the Zoo! located?

Located in University Heights, this holiday home is 1.5 mi (2.4 km) from Balboa Park and 1.9 mi (3.1 km) from San Diego Zoo. Mission Valley Mall and San Diego Natural History Museum are also within 3 miles (5 km).

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Expansive Home in San Diego, AC, Updated, near Downtown-Beaches and the Zoo! Reviews

Reviews

Excellent

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.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 6 out of 9 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 9 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 9 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 9 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 9 reviews

9.8

Cleanliness

9.6

Location

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shannon K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This home was huge and very clean. The location was excellent. The beds were comfortable and the kitchen had everything we needed. Thank you, Faith!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Valerie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spacious Comfortable Home

This is a great home! It's clean, comfortable and has a great outdoor space for lounging. The owner, Faith, is wonderful to work with. The home is in a great location and is close to many fun San Diego activities.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verde Functional W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing stay, amazing home and AMAZING host!

By far the best VRBO we have stayed in! Well kept, clean, great location, friendly neighborhood, and above all, comfortable! We will be back! Thank you Faith for going above and beyond during our stay! God bless, The Candelaria's
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amanda F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quick family trip

We came down to San Diego from up north and after hitting the 405 at the wrong time and sitting in traffic for an extra two hours it was such a pleasure to roll into the house and be greeted by such a kind women. She had left us with fresh homemade cookies and water bottles and fresh fruit. It made my life so much easier not having to rush to the store for morning goodies for the kiddos. The house was exactly as described and such a great location and quiet. The beds were comfy and the backyard is the cutest!! We will for sure keep this home in mind for future trips. Thank you Faith!!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ashley R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The perfect rental for a San Diego stay!

This rental in San Diego was more than we could have asked for! My husband and I were visiting San Diego with a friend, and our trip was made so comfortable and elevated thanks to choosing this rental. Checking in was super easy, as the host Faith was very responsive and helpful. The home itself is stunning, providing us so much room and making it easy for us all to have our own space when we needed. It was so clean, updated, and well maintained; it had everything we could think of needing. The location is great, as the neighborhood has nice restaurants and really fun bars, and it was made even better that we could just walk to get coffee or a drink and not have to call an Uber every time. Even though it was so close to all the shops and businesses, the street itself was very quiet making it perfect for a light sleeper like myself. We used the big backyard every day to enjoy the sunshine in San Diego, and often did some work and some stretching outside since the weather was so perfect during our stay. We would not hesitate to book this rental again on our next visit to San Diego, and honestly wished we stayed longer this time around!!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Corie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location. Wonderful home for family groups
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

6/10 Okay

Justin R.

Liked: Cleanliness, listing accuracy
Disliked: Check-in, communication
This house is beautiful. The area of town is okay at best. Our issue with this property was that we felt like we were treated like second class citizens by the host. We were questioned multiple times about our registered guests (7), which was one less than the max guests allowed. Then we were reminded through multiple messages that we were not allowed to have any visitors during our stay. It was so uncomfortable that I had to tell my parents they could not come over for coffee in the morning because we were threatened with eviction if we had guests. Beautiful home, average area, but the host added undeserved stress for a small family getaway. I would not recommend for an stress-free vacation getaway.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

4/10 Poor

David H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026