Vacation Rentals by Owner

Celebrate Life in Villa with 3 Houses, Ocean Views, Near Beach [#283934] | View Property

San Francisco (San Pancho)
Villa, 7 Bedrooms, 7.5 Baths (Sleeps 14)
$150 to $800 per night
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Traveler Reviews (17)

• Perfection!

  Perfection!

  • Guest adam v.
  • Date of stay 03/27/13
  • Review Submitted 05/02/13
  We recently stayed at Villa de Vistas with 6 adults and 7 children under the age of 8. This was the perfect getaway location and the house exceeded every expectation we had of it. The view, breezes coming off the ocean and the jungle feeling all combine to creat an incredible experience. In addition the pool (one of the best in town) was always in use by our kids. They loved it. The owners Bill and Mellisa (and their son David) were the most incredible hosts and were instrumental in our enjoyment by sharing their experiences and recomendations on restaurants, surfing and local activities. The town of San Pancho is a great combination of quiet and casual mixed with a number of fantastic restaurants and friendly locals. Our personal security was never once a concern and settling in takes a matter of minutes. I would highly recommend this rental location and would undoubtedly return again.

  Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, sightseeing.

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• A little slice of heaven!

  A little slice of heaven!

  • Guest Team G
  • Date of stay 07/24/12
  • Review Submitted 08/18/12
  WOW! After one of the most idyllic and dreamy vacations, I had to hit the ground running back at work. Only now have I had the chance to finally take a deep breath to reflect and revel in the afterglow of a truly magical week in San Pancho. Thank you for helping make my 40th birthday a truly memorable and outstanding one! When I spoke with you prior to our vacation, I could almost sense you lighting up as you told us about your home. Now I can more fully appreciate why you brighten whenever you think of it. Your thoughtfulness, love, and attention to detail is so evident in every room of the house that I almost felt you were actually there with us! You’ve created your own little heaven, and we feel so fortunate to have shared a little piece of it. We traveled with three other families, spanning three generations and seven decades. We spread out and took advantage of both the big house and casita which were accommodating and comfortable for all. There was plenty of space to get away and curl up with a good book in the hammock or one of the decks, as well as many common areas to get together to enjoy each other's company. The views from every room are spectacular, and although sunny every day, a couple of nights we were treated to a wonderful light show of fireflies and lightening. On two occassions we had a crew come in and make dinner - a wonderful taste of local cuisine (rivaled only by the fresh fish tacos my husband made from the bounty of his spearfishing trips!). San Pancho and surrounding environs provided a little something for everyone - surfing, snorkling, horseback riding, stand up paddling, relaxing on the beach, hiking... The town itself is small, clean and quaint with a handful of little galleries and great restaurants. We left a little something for you – a guitar. We saw it in a store in San Pancho, but every time we stopped by it was closed. Ultimately a woman at the market next door told us where the owner lived, and after a short walk through town (and past an enormous black bull tied up in her front yard) we found her home. Without a second thought, she simply handed us the keys to her shop, and graciously sent us off to pick out a guitar on our own. We wanted to leave behind some music for the Casa Que Canta, so please enjoy it, knowing that it comes not only with our thanks and appreciation, but it's also infused with the warmth, trust and goodwill of San Pancho.

  Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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• Wesleyan Friends

  Wesleyan Friends

  • Guest Rick
  • Date of stay 03/23/12
  • Review Submitted 04/16/12
  My wife and I spent a fantastic week at the Casa with 7 other fraternity brothers and their spouses. The complex is stunningly beautiful with sweeping ocean views and vivid colorful art throughout. Walking to the beach was easy and the town of San Pancho has many delightful and delicious Mexican restaurants. The locals in the town and those who worked at the Casa were all very friendly and knowledgable. We enjoyed the pool, polo match, and bird watching walk and the weather was perfect. Highly higly recommended.

  Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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• Wesleyan Friends

  Wesleyan Friends

  • Guest Sailor411
  • Date of stay 03/23/12
  • Review Submitted 04/12/12
  I spent one of the most enjoyable vacations of my life at the Villa; everything was all that was advertised (and more). The location was spectacular, the house and gounds an architectual gem, and the rooms attractively furnished and immaculate. Opportunites to swim in the pool or the Pacific, and nearby shopping and birding were great. I would recommend this to anyone without reservation.

  Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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• Wonderful Week in San Pancho!

  Wonderful Week in San Pancho!

  • Guest John and Addie
  • Date of stay 04/05/11
  • Review Submitted 04/14/11
  WOW! If you are after peace and tranquility with a beautiful view, this place is for you. We just returned home after spending a week in the La Casa Que Canta with two other couples. I could also envision renting the entire property with several more couples or as a family retreat. We immediately noticed that the place is even better than the photos on this website. This is a private villa where you can kick back and enjoy everything from the private pool to the lovely complete kitchen with all the amenities. The house is designed so you can spend quiet time alone or gather as a group in the pool or on any of the floors, always with a beautiful view of the ocean. We loved how it was so close to downtown, yet so private. Although we did eat out in downtown San Pancho on several occasions and had a great dinner while attending a polo match, you could easily get groceries after landing in Puerto Vallarta and spend your entire stay right there at La Casa Que Canta. The entire villa is beautifully appointed with artwork and handcrafted wooden furnishings purchased by the hosts from all over Mexico. They truly thought of everything in making the house special and inviting for their guests.

  Recommended for: Age 55+, families with young children, romantic getaway.

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• Amazing Family Vacation

  Amazing Family Vacation

  • Guest Susan
  • Date of stay 03/26/11
  • Review Submitted 04/11/11
  When my husband and I decided to plan a family vacation to celebrate some "decade" birthdays and our 40th wedding anniversary we did a lot of research and planning. Our decision was to rent Casa Que Canta and it was an excellent choice. Our party included 16 people - 10 adults and 6 children age 6 months to 9 years. The property allowed every family private space as well as beautiful common areas both inside and outside. The vistas from the upper levels are breathtaking and the sunsets amazing. Bill and Melissa were wonderful to work with and provided lots of helpful information and local resources. Bill was easy to contact throughout the planning of our vacation. The service staff at the house were easy to be around, they were happy and friendly, and looked after the house and grounds with great ease. The House Managers Bob and Vicky Farmer were wonderful to work with. Bob got back to us promptly with any questions we had and really made an effort to make our vacation problem free and lots of fun. We could not have asked for a better place to spend a very special family holiday. We are so grateful that the Roberts family shared their home with us for this special occassion.

  Recommended for: Age 55+, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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• Perfect Trip / Perfect Place

  Perfect Trip / Perfect Place

  • Guest Lynn
  • Date of stay 01/18/11
  • Review Submitted 04/17/11
  First time visit to Mexico - and I am spoiled! The property was breath taking - the views of the water / sunset / jungle were fantastic. Pictures do not do it justice - the house(s) exhibit the crafts of Mexico - tiles / art work / and architecture - and get you in the mood to slow down and relax! The village is a short walk down the beach ( or a taxi ride) and has great places to eat - or to enjoy the water - drink in hand at the local beach front restatraunts! Good local food - simple and fresh. Lots to do - bird watching / polo matches / shopping ( art for the most part ) -or just relaxing! Our tour guide / driver Arturo took us to several markets and a whale watch that were not too far from San Pancho. My lack of much spanish was not a problem. Stayed in the Nido - bunk room - and it was very comfortable - even for two adults. Stayed with a large group- and never felt crowded. Would return again to watch the sunset and enjoy all the area had to offer.

  Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

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• The Perfect Setting for a Group Vacation in a Sleepy Coastal Mexican Village

  The Perfect Setting for a Group Vacation in a Sleepy Coastal Mexican Village

  • Guest Mexico traveler
  • Date of stay 01/18/11
  • Review Submitted 02/14/11
  Stunning views from every balcony of a stunningly beautiful property. Exquisite folk art everywhere. Well equipped kitchens and common rooms. Comfortable beds. Friendly helpful staff. Extremely knowledgeable owners. I would recommend this property to anyone who would like to stay in a small, largely undiscovered, Mexican coastal village. There is much to do nearby, including bustling Puerta Vallarta, but this property invites its guests to slow down and enjoy the incredible timeless beauty of Mexico.

  Recommended for: Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

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• January in San Pancho

  January in San Pancho

  • Guest Garden traveler
  • Date of stay 01/18/11
  • Review Submitted 02/10/11
  Fabulous property, that was perfect for a large group! We enjoyed spectacular sunsets, breakfast and dinners on the terrace and poolside. The skies were blue and the temperatures perfect for the entire time we were there. Extreme attention has been paid to every detail resulting in an exquisite home. The ideal location for a family reunion or large group. Don't miss this delightful vacation spot with attentive and friendly staff. We are so glad we went and enjoyed the people and town of San Pancho.

  Recommended for: Families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway.

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• This is truly an original....It'll be in Architectural Digest!

  This is truly an original....It'll be in Architectural Digest!

  • Guest Steve and Laney
  • Date of stay 01/13/11
  • Review Submitted 02/21/11
  Imagine ~ - being lulled to sleep by the swish of the Pacific - awakening to the distant trumpet of a rooster’s ‘cockadoodeloo’ The Roberts’ home, less than an hour from the glitz and traffic of Puerto Vallarta, is nothing short of an original. I’m betting you’ll find it in a future issue of Architectural Digest. If you’re looking for shopping malls or Los Angeles- moved- south, San Pancho’s not for you. But if you’re looking for a stunning, safe and quiet spot in a little town that’s welcoming to Americans, take a look. For now, it’s undiscovered Mexico. A winding staircase studded with multicolored glass unites La Casa Que Canta (The House the Sings) with El Nido de la Tortuga (The Nest of the Turtle). Landscaped steps lead downward to Casa Celestial (House of the Heavens.) The three levels provide privacy when you want it, and abundant spaces for togetherness. Melissa’s lyrical touch finds expression in every bedroom and every bath. In each nook and cranny you’ll find the results of Bill and Melissa’s two years spent searching for authentic pieces of indigenous Mexican artistry. The dining room has a recessed ceiling, softly lit, a table complemented by 10 chairs, on the backs of which are 10 different (and original) Oaxacan designs. Furniture and woodwork is all hand crafted; no pulp board, no laminate. There is tons of closet space. People with bad backs will have no complaints about the user-friendly mattresses. Everything’s got a brand new feel. We took photographs of the tile work to show the architect who is renovating our home in Connecticut. -2- My favorite spot: a roomy heated swimming pool adjoining the Nest of the Turtle, adorned with turtle tiles and genuine coral. Our favorite activity: joining with friends- margaritas in hand- to watch the sun plunge, sizzle and be swallowed by a vast blue ocean. Hardly an activity …it’s more like a sacred moment. There’s a well-equipped modern kitchen on every level. For a reasonable fee you can have a gourmet meal prepared by Sophia, who reminds us of the star in Like Water for Chocolate. Our every need was promptly taken care of by Enrique, Rodrigo, and Noemi, the solicitous and effective household staff. A knowledgeable driver, Arturo, took us in his van when we yearned for a brief adventure or an all-day expedition. What a treat for a two- to- three generation family, a gathering of friends, or a group of colleagues who need a place to think ou

  Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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• Family Christmas Vacation

  Family Christmas Vacation

  • Guest Consuelo
  • Date of stay 12/18/10
  • Review Submitted 02/11/11
  Our family of 12 spent a wonderful week in San Pancho over the Christmas holiday at this delightful villa. We were able to spread out and enjoy the company of one another while maintaining some individual privacy and space. Each of our children and grandchildren loved their individual accomodations. The property is beautifully maintained and architecturally interesting capitalizing on using the natural jungle setting to maximum advantage. We all joked that we had a built-in exercise program via the multiple levels and stairs throughout the property, but no one gained weight! The photos provided on the web-site are good, but don't come close to the real thing. The views of the jungle, beach, sunrises, and sunsets have to be seen first-hand. The owners are great to work with, and provide a wealth of information about the property, the town, activities, restaurants, directions, and tips to make the stay more enjoyable. The local property manager was excellent to work with, and responsive to our requests. Don't miss Maria's Restaurant for breakfast, Baja's for fish tacos at lunch, and Olla Rica for dinner. But, you can't top cooking at the villa with dinner on the terrace watching the sunset. Que tenga buen dia!

  Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

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• Magical

  Magical

  • Guest LA Loves Casa Que Canta
  • Date of stay 03/24/10
  • Review Submitted 04/07/10
  We had the pleasure of thoroughly enjoying Casa Que Canta in late March 2010. We loved the house so much that we were sad to leave. We travel extensively, and usually by the end of trip, are excited to make it back home to Los Angeles. However, our stay at Casa Que Canta was so fantastic that we were trying to figure out ways to stay longer. We cannot wait to come back, and are painfully writing this review, as we would rather keep this gem straddling the dense jungle and pristine beach of Costa Vallarta a well-kept secret. The property is a recently built masterpiece, which many visitors consider one of the most beautiful houses in San Pancho. We were able to visit many of the properties for rent during our visit to San Pancho, and fully agree that Bill and Melissa's property is one of the top properties for rent in the area. La Casa Que Canta's thoughtful architecture and interior design provides guests with a seamless indoor/outdoor experience. The liberal use of negative space and high cielings maximize what could La Casa Que Canta's strongest asset, 180 degree views that span from the jungle to the beach. One can enjoy these views on 3 of the house's 4 levels. The master bedroom level takes up the top floor, and enjoys two private balconies. Outside on these two balconies, one is literally staring down into the jungle and onto the nearby beach. It is as if the master bedroom is built on very tops of the giant jungle trees. As one descends the spiral staircase from the master bedroom, one enters the main level of the house. Here the high cielings are augmented by the floor to cieling windows and doors, all of which open completely, creating what is essentially, an open air living room, dining room, kitchen and media room. The views from this level are just as striking as those from the master bedroom, and one does begin to perceive the life and energy of the Vallarta jungle as the bird and animal sounds become more intense. The next level down houses two bedrooms. These two bedrooms open up to a floor-length veranda/patio, which again, provides striking views. Finally, at the bottom of the steps is the pool area. The pool features a beautiful hand-tiled mural, with what appears to be characters from Finding Nemo. The pool area, while at the bottom of the development is bathed in sun all day, and provides a very private escape. The pool area was so relaxing and comforting, we found it hard to escape to the beautiful beach. Thank you Bill and Melissa!

  Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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• • Guest Anonymous
  • Date of stay 03/22/10
  • Review Submitted 03/22/10
  We discovered Paradise at Melissa and Bill's wonderful home in San Pancho. While this luxury villa combines panoramic and breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains, and tropical vegetation, it overlooks an enormous pool deck and exotic landscape. From numerous outdoor terraces we had front row seats to gorgeous sunsets. Through out the villa Mexican tiles are a work of art, and each room is tastefully decorated with traditional Mexican decor. The spacious gourmet kitchen offers several work stations for more than one cook. You must visit this beautiful villa to appreciate it because it is unbelievable. This was a perfect vacation!

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• • Guest K & S Eisner
  • Date of stay 03/16/10
  • Review Submitted 03/16/10
  We had the pleasure of staying at Bill and Melissa's beautiful home in Febuary of 2010. We were a group of 6 separate families, vacationing together all with small children. We found the home to be stunning, palatial really. The views are breathtaking and it was clear that they designed it to feel as if you were at a quaint resort hotel. Although, it is a home with all of the amenities, you can retreat to the privacy of your own room with ease. Additionally, the town of San Pancho is charming, authentic and the Nayarit region is great for exploring. Make sure to visit the beach towns above and below San Pancho for some great day trips! Bill and Melissa are wonderful hosts; they really care about your experience and will do whatever they can to ensure you have a wonderful time! Thank you Bill and Melissa.

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• Fabulous Place!

  Fabulous Place!

  • Guest Tote
  • Date of stay 02/27/10
  • Review Submitted 04/01/10
  This is an amazing villa full of beautiful art, wonderful features and amenities, yet it has the warm feel of a home you would love to live in. We stayed in the Nido, the small home that is on the pool level of the main house. While it has its own full kitchen, we were part of a larger group and so we cooked all our meals in the upstairs gourmet kitchen - a cooks dream. We are outdoors people, so we thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful landscaped grounds, the tropical birds and the short walk to the beach. The surf was high so we did not do any swimming, but we did wade in the water and thoroughly enjoyed the gorgeous, uncrowded beach and the friendly little town of San Pancho. The owners, Bill and Melissa, are very accommodating and helpful and go out of their way to make your stay everything you hope it will be. We would definitely recommend this home to family and friends and would love to stay there again!

  Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

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• A Visit to Paradise

  A Visit to Paradise

  • Guest Barrell
  • Date of stay 01/24/10
  • Review Submitted 04/02/10
  We enjoyed every minute of our January vacation in Melissa and Bill's spacious, beautifully appointed, and welcoming home! Spectacular views and sunsets and a pleasant, relaxing ambience marked every day, and wandering in the "real" Mexican culture of San Pancho charmed us. Although leaving the peace of the hilltop was difficult, our jaunts to the "outside world" proved special, particularly the village markets and the botanical gardens. And I never dreamed I'd ever have such a glorious whale-watching experience. This was truly a visit to Paradise!

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• Heaven on Earth

  Heaven on Earth

  • Guest Sarah & Richard
  • Date of stay 01/24/10
  • Review Submitted 03/30/10
  The house,the setting.and the accomodations are outstanding. The photos in the listing are accurate and show the beauty of the homes and their setting, but only in person can you appreciate the grandeur of this property. We loved every moment of our stay and highly recommend it!

  Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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