Vacation Rentals by Owner

Perfectly memorable! Beautiful location! When can we return?

Guest: Val (Durango, Colorado)
Date of Stay: 05/02/12 Review Submitted: 05/11/12

We had very specific needs regarding the location as we were celebrating our daughter's college graduation and wanted a place close to her school as well as a good place to congregate family and friends. Tom and Lisa's Ocean Retreat fit the bill above and beyond our expectations. Ground floor level was perfect for our elderly parents but also because every morning, afternoon and night we walked out with our cup of coffee or glass of wine onto the lovely patio. We hosted a pre-graduation brunch, after graduation lunch and a small friend gathering another night and all we heard were raves. The kitchen is well stocked, the bedrooms are a good size especially since you should be living in the outdoors and the bathrooms are beautiful. While we have family that live in San Diego we're trying to figure out some excuse to retreat at Ocean Retreat again! Totally refreshing! Good neighborhood yet close to the quirky fun of Ocean Beach! Thank you!

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Christmas Week at the "Retreat"

Guest: Sue (Southern Pines, NC)
Date of Stay: 12/19/11 Review Submitted: 01/06/12

We thoroughly enjoyed our week at the "retreat". The location was perfect and the sunsets were beautiful. The description of the unit was accurate and everything was clean and in order. The surrounding area and homes were well maintained. Plenty of restaurants near by. Fifteen minutes from the airport, downtown and Sea World. The owners, Tom and Lisa, were very responsive to our questions and needs and were very easy to work with. We would strongly recommend this unit and if we have a need in the future, we would like to stay again. Bottom line, we are satisfied customers.

Recommended for:Age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great Stay at the Ocean Front Retreat

Guest: ChicagoMike (Chicago, IL)
Date of Stay: 11/16/11 Review Submitted: 11/27/11

I was in town for a conference and opted to stay by the ocean instead of in the Gaslamp quarter. My wife accompanied me because she has never been to San Diego. Our 4 night stay at the Ocean Front Retreat was excellent. Lisa and her son met us to show us around the property. The views were amazing! Though the weather was cool (highs in the 60s and lows in the low 50s), I found myself out on the terrace every chance I could, day or night. Being able to hear the waves crashing up against the rocks helped push all my worries away. I think another reviewer mentioned the treacherous conditions to make your way down to the waterfront. It's true. It's kind of tough to get down to the water, but I'm young and spry and was able to get down there without any incident. However, if you have any physical disabilities or injuries, you will definitely have a problem getting down to the waterfront. If you do make it down to the water, the tide pools are great. There is a small tucked away beach a little ways down, which was fun to sit and watch the sun set. There were a ridiculous amount of biting insects down by the water, but if you have pants and a jacket on you should be fine. The house was nice, and the house had a lot of items that made our stay comfortable (coffee grounds in the freezer, sugars/sweeteners, tea bags, and spices in the cupboard, and a first aid kit - which came in handy). The house had a ton of knick-knacks, which tended to clutter the house, but overall the place was comfortable and tastefully furnished. We could have kept the costs down had we had more than just to two of us. That would have made this place an incredible bargain. However, with just the two us, it was comparable to a stay in a really nice hotel in the Gaslamp. The off-street parking was convenient. We used the garage pretty much the entire time we were there, but the garage was *extremely* small which made for difficult maneuvering with our compact rental car. Getting to the conference center took only about 20 minutes by car and could be a problem if you take public transportation. Ocean Beach is a fun, hippyish community with nice eateries, shops, and beaches. It's definitely not as hip/trendy as Mission Beach or the Gaslamp, but it offered us exactly what we wanted - quiet, things to do/eat. Will consider this location if we return to SD.

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

Perfect beach retreat

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 11/10/11 Review Submitted: 11/16/11

What an idyllic place to visit! The condo sits right above the ocean and is stocked with everything you'd want for a beach retreat. You can sit on the patio and watch the sunset and waves or walk to town for shopping or dining. The condo has a retro surf theme and feels very comfy. Sea World is very close, too. I'd recommend this to anyone.

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

Perfectly located and wonderfully comfortable

Guest: julie (arizona)
Date of Stay: 07/16/11 Review Submitted: 07/27/11

we have rented from lisa and tom before and they do a beautiful job with their properties - the experience with this property was no different. the location simply cannot be beat and the home is appointed with everything we needed to make our stay comfortable. they take great care in making sure that renters have a positive experience, which is definitely appreciated. one of the best things about the location is that its removed from the hustle of newport ave, but close enough to walk/bike to the action/beach. i would easily recommend this property to anyone looking to spend time in ocean beach.

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

Amazing Property (And What a View on the 4th of July)

Guest: Scott (Coral Springs, FL)
Date of Stay: 07/02/11 Review Submitted: 07/18/11

As all the others have stated....What a great property! Close to everything (SeaWorld, Zoo, Balboa park, Gaslamp, OldTown, ect) but who wants to even leave! The house is stocked with everything you need and VERY clean. Loved eating meals on deck and just listening to the ocean. Sunsets are spectacular with nothing blocking the view. Kids had a blast. Coming from Florida, I was not overly thrilled to be on a beach front house. I though, Big deal, but oh was I wrong. I did not want to leave! But it doesn't end there, not only was the house nice, but the owners were great too. They thought of everything, including ideas on where to eat, shop, and go, with maps and menus galore. Can not wait to go back!

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

Wonderful Week

Guest: OBers (Meadow Vista)
Date of Stay: 04/07/11 Review Submitted: 05/02/11

This place is everything that it is described to be plus extra details to make you feel taken care of. Location is right on the cliffs, plenty of space inside, outside, and parking. Great for families with little ones too. Very well maintained, very clean, and lovely decor. We recommend this with no hesitation.

Recommended for:Families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car.

Perfect peaceful San Diego getaway.

Guest: Melissa T. (Denver, CO)
Date of Stay: 03/28/11 Review Submitted: 04/14/11

Wow! How do you describe such beauty and medicine for the soul? This condo sat upon a cliff that was absolutely mesmerizing to watch at day or night. I got to see seals play and dolphins entertain in the sea just in front of the condo while drinking my morning coffee on the patio. I got the best tan in my life on the beautiful deck, and strolled along the cliffs and pier on a daily basis. Newport street, a mere 3 blocks away, had everything you could want, from quaint shops, to phenomonal food, to a farmers market on Wednesday afternoon, to the quirky OB-okee (karaoke) at Winstons. My 9 year old son had a blast playing on the beach and making friends with the friendliest neighborhood cat, named Hunter. What a sweetie. My parents loved watching the sunsets together in the matching robes provided in the condo. The sound of the surf put me to sleep every night, and the other neighboring vacationers were simply joyful to be around. Ocean Beach is unlike anywhere else in San Diego, the neigborhood is very safe and the locals are friendly. I highly recommend this wonderful property to anyone looking for a vacation without being in the middle of a loud tourist town. It was so peaceful and cleansing to my soul. I didnt want to leave, and will definitely be back in the future. Thanks for everything, Tom and Lisa. You make this a very easy vacation to plan, and I will not forget it.

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

A perfect week

Guest: D & Z (Winnipeg, Canada)
Date of Stay: 03/21/11 Review Submitted: 04/04/11

Great location, great property, great time for our family of four. The property was exactly as advertised. We have two boys, age 3&5, and exploring the area was a big highlight. We watched the dolphins play from the balcony, explored the pier and tide pools, found a small cove to explore during low tide, and enjoyed numerous local restaurants all within walking distance. We always felt safe, day or night. I would recommend the location to friends. Many thanks!

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

Beautiful Place

Guest: Pam (Indiana)
Date of Stay: 02/12/11 Review Submitted: 02/22/11

Lisa and Tom, We so enjoyed our stay at the OB Retreat. The view is just magnificent and we felt very comfortable in your home. It was lovely to come back to each evening after our busy days around San Diego. We loved being close to the lookouts at the end of Point Loma and would often find ourselves there or at Sunset Cliffs Park for some quiet time. Thanks so much

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

Thank you

Guest: Smith family (Ashtabula, OH)
Date of Stay: 02/08/11 Review Submitted: 02/17/11

I wanted to thank you for the opportunity to stay in a such a beautiful place, spending a few days of much needed alone- time with my husband. We enjoyed everything about the Ocean Front Beach Retreat. We were lucky enough to see dolphins each morning and even saw water spouts from a few whales the last morning we were there. I look forward to our next trip out to San Diego! Since we've already stayed in 2 out of 3 of your rental properties - maybe we'll try the 3rd one next!

Owner response:I am so glad you enjoyed our wonderful Retreat. Please call us again and yes stay in our Tropical Ocean Retreat next time! 3rds a charm! Tom and Lisa

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

Wonderful setting!

Guest: Nancy (Rochester, MN)
Date of Stay: 02/05/11 Review Submitted: 02/23/11

My husband and I stayed at the Hoyer's retreat for 3 nights and recommend it highly! We walked for miles from the condo, and then came home to the comfortable and quiet setting with an incredible view. It was awesome watching the surfers; if you go out on the pier you can see them from a unique perspective, as if you're catching the waves! Sunsets on the patio were spectacular, and the surf at night was the only sound we heard as we slept peacefully in the comfy bed. Thank you for everything!

Owner response:Your description of our Retreat was as beautiful as the sunsets out front. Please call us again! Lisa and Tom

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Sunset Cliffs Lives Up to It's Name

Guest: Lyd (Connecticut)
Date of Stay: 11/02/10 Review Submitted: 11/16/10

We had three nights at the Hoyer's condo. It was truly magnificent. We arrived in time to visit the farmer's market in town. Most everything is within walking distance, although we did branch out and travel the coast. It wasn't conducive for swimming so much as it was for walking along the beach, the pier and the rocks. Hearing the waves slam against the rocks at night was like heaven, as well as watching the gorgeous sunsets. This was our first trip ever to San Diego from the east coast, and was well worth the visit. I would be aware of the grill, we chose not to use it - and keep an eye out for critters if you are out on the patio at night. We had to head out around 4 a.m. the day we left, and a skunk ran across the patio while I was enjoying my last bit of vaction before leaving. It freaked me out a little, but he was well on his way and didn't stop or anything. San Diego is an awesome city to visit. The area and coast line are phenomenal.

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

Perfect spot for a trip to San Diego

Guest: Barbara (Missouri)
Date of Stay: 10/28/10 Review Submitted: 11/22/10

Our family loved this retreat. It was beautifully decorated,very clean, with everything you needed and a perfect location to see all the San Diego area. We loved capturing the sunsets every evening before venturing out/or staying in and cooking on the patio. A great place to meet, relax and enjoy the area.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great Girlfriends Weekend Getaway!

Guest: Jennifer (Prescott, Arizona)
Date of Stay: 10/22/10 Review Submitted: 10/27/10

This was a fantastic property...beautiful, scenic, clean and so central. Loved everything about it and hope to come back again soon! Thank you!!

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

OB Retreat

Guest: Kathy Shanahan (Cape Cod, MA)
Date of Stay: 06/05/10 Review Submitted: 06/14/10

This is a perfect location to enjoy OB and all of beautiful San Diego. The condo is in a quiet neighborhood overlooking the cliffs and pier. The bustling center of OB is only blocks away. Lisa and Tom were very gracious hosts. Highly recommended!

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

perfect getaway! fantastic view!

Guest: bmd_3 (Los Angeles, CA)
Date of Stay: 05/29/10 Review Submitted: 06/02/10

My husband and in-laws enjoyed a restful and relaxing getaway at Lisa and Tom's retreat. It was such a treat to wake up in such an inviting and beautiful location. The property is well appointed with all that you could possibly need. We really didn't want to leave!

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

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 10/27/08 Review Submitted: 10/27/08

We can’t thank-you enough for the wonderful accommodations – it was like being a guest in your home! Our family was so comfortable & enjoyed the views so much it was difficult to leave such a beautiful place in the sun. We love Ocean Beach & everyone wants to make a return visit soon. Thank-you again for everything!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 10/01/08 Review Submitted: 10/26/08

We can’t thank-you enough for the wonderful accommodations – it was like being a guest in your home! Our family was so comfortable & enjoyed the views so much it was difficult to leave such a beautiful place in the sun. We love Ocean Beach & everyone wants to make a return visit soon. Thank-you again for everything!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 08/01/08 Review Submitted: 08/10/08

I can't say enough good things about our stay here! The accomodations were not only comfortable, but beautiful. We spent every morning and every evening watching the sun rise or set, it was so relaxing. We brought our extended family and rented 2 units at Ocean Beach, from us old ones to our little grandsons, it was a wonderful vacation.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 06/01/08 Review Submitted: 06/05/08

This was a great place with a fantastic view, convenient location close to downtown Ocean Beach and San Diego, and very comfortable accomodations. We'd definitely stay again and recommend it to others.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 05/01/08 Review Submitted: 05/19/08

Great location with easy access to all tourist areas. Ocean front view was amazing..... and the condo was very comfortable and clean. Lisa made the whole experience of leasing the condo very simple and easy. Will lease again when we travel back to this area.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 05/01/08 Review Submitted: 05/02/08

This was a great family vacation house! Close to all the great San Diego attractions and a beautiful yard and patio to relax and chat after the kids went to bed! Would definitely stay again if we ever get back to San Diego!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 03/01/08 Review Submitted: 03/24/08

We had a fantastic time at this beautiful home near Ocean Beach. The house was a perfect base from which to explore Sea World, Coronado, Point Loma, downtown San Diego, and Balboa Park. It was also a very relaxing place to return to each day. We loved walking down to Sunset Cliffs for walks in the early evening.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Lee Wilke (Chapel Hill, NC)
Date of Stay: 08/01/07 Review Submitted: 08/11/07

Lisa and Tom have a beautiful home to rent. The house was perfect for our family. The location was central for our activities in and around San Diego.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Tracy Cockriel (Englewood, Colorado)
Date of Stay: 05/01/07 Review Submitted: 05/02/07

Lisa and Tom-Wow!! I am so glad I found the beach retreat!!! What a great place to spend a long weekend. We had a great time-and loved everything about our stay from the whimsical decorating, comfy beds and furniture to the sights and sounds of the crashing waves!!! We will be back!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: The Bartons (Honolulu, HI)
Date of Stay: 04/01/07 Review Submitted: 04/12/07

It doesn't get much better than this. Thanks for the stay and we will certainly look for you the next time San Diego becomes our destination.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: carla and tim (portland, maine)
Date of Stay: 03/01/07 Review Submitted: 03/18/07

lisa and tom, on behalf of Tim and myself, thank you forproviding such a special place, and for sharing it with others. We feel very fortunate to have found such a lovely and awe inspiring spo. The view of the pier and the endless ocean, the wonderful and soothing sounds of the waves crashing on the shores, the ability to watch the surfers, who seem to always be out there regardless of the hour or weather- as they dance with the waves, seemingly at ease in the crashing surf and truly at one with nature. All these wonderful external facets combined with the warmth and welcome nature of the home you've created- the beach and surfer themes, the comfy furniture and the incredibly well stocked library- all these things culminating in a wonderfully peaceful and special vacation. Thank you for the opportunity to experience it. Best regards, Carla and Tim Portland , Maine

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Guest: Eric and the Gang
Date of Stay: 11/07/06 Review Submitted: 11/06/06

What an amazing place! And all very well stocked and decorated. The ocean view couldn't be any better! I love this community that is so very local and not touristy or commercial.. I'd recommend it and hope to come back myself! Cheers, Cleveland Browns Fans!!!

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Guest: James and Jenny
Date of Stay: 10/16/06 Review Submitted: 10/15/06

Tom and Lisa, We had such a wonderful time here listening to the waves, walking the beach, resting, reading and enjoying the views. Thak you for making this such a charming and peaceful place to be! It was a much needed getaway from our busy lives. James and Jenny

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Guest: The Tracey's and The Pappas'
Date of Stay: 09/17/06 Review Submitted: 09/16/06

Tom and Lisa, Thank you so much for letting us stay in your beautiful home. We had the most amazing time and we will see you again soon. Tim, Deb, Heather, Sam

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Guest: The Cypherts
Date of Stay: 09/07/06 Review Submitted: 09/06/06

Tom and Lisa, Thanks for letting us visit your wonderful home. We loved all the personal touches. See you next time, Laura and Milt

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Guest: The Clements
Date of Stay: 07/22/06 Review Submitted: 07/21/06

Tom and Lisa, Wow! What a cool relief from the scorching desert heat of Phoenix! Thanks for everything. The kids say "totally awesome dude!" Hang ten and we'll catch you on the next heat wave.

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Guest: Joanne and Al
Date of Stay: 07/04/06 Review Submitted: 07/03/06

Tom and Lisa, This was by far our best vacation ever! The view is actually an experience that is difficult to describe. One needs to be here to understand how awesome this place is. The crashing waves, flocks of birds and the ocean breeze were my favorites. Al's favorites were the beautiful sunsets and the crashing waves. Your choice of decor inside is classy. Everywhere I looked there was something interesting and attractive to look at, but yet complementing to the view outdoors. Thanks for sharing this little piece of heaven with us. We were finally able to get the relaxation we've needed. We are not happy that it has to end, but we look forward to coming back!

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