Best in town location•private•pro clean•dogs ok•kids play space•fire pit•loved!
Click on my host photo for a URL to all of my listings. Read our amazing reviews! Riverside Rental Permit RVC - 1143
NOT FENCED - 16 foot tether • 8 guests max. 3 bdrm- all private with queen beds + bonus room “Lava Lounge” • 2 bth (tub/shower in one, shower in other) • fire pit • in town center yet very private• a very homey - home away from home family get away beautifully landscaped 1/2 acre with apple & pear trees, a small seasonal creek, walking paths and bridges
Emma and I are long time locals, are trained in interior design and high end hospitality, we have been hosting wonderful guests like you for years.
Each home has a different charm and experience. If one is booked for the dates you are interested in then try checking another.
ALL OF OUR HOMES: • Our homes have been fully designed and renovated or partially renovated • All are very loved and not a typical vacation rental (read the reviews!). • Are always professionally deep cleaned after every stay • Are all dog and child friendly (only the Palm Desert home is adults only, no pets) • Have fast internet • Have luxury lines and comfortable beds • Have AC and Heat (with extra portable fans and portable heaters). • Have wood burning fire places • Have outdoor string lights • Have propane grills • Have filtered water pitchers • Have Smart TV’s • Have a selection of games and books • Have a lock box for entry so no need to pick up keys or meet us in person (unless you prefer that) • Are close to town center (Two are just 1 block away, others around 1.5 miles away) • Are close to hiking/walking trails • Have plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and off street parking • Have hammocks • Are stocked with everything you need and more (a detailed list arrives seven days prior to arrival) • Have a welcome gift and a personal welcome note upon arrival • Have an on your honor bar and on your honor firewood use • Have a journal to share your adventures and read up on others • Are continuously upgraded and looked after to ensure a wonderful stay
WHAT THIS HOME HAS (in addition to the above list): • Steps to town, yet totally quiet and private • Washer/Dryer • Gas fire pit • Two stoves (one is outdoors) • 16 foot tether’s - for your dog :-) • Cool hideout sleep/play spaces for kiddos (and adults!) • Starry night light projector
DOG INFORMATION (if you are bringing any): We don’t have a weight limit but trust that your dogs are well behaved and will be wonderful guests in our beautiful homes :-) $25 per dog per stay for extra cleaning.
WHAT WE PROVIDE: • Fenced yard or enclosed deck (some properties) • 16 foot tether in the yards (if not fenced) • dog bowls • dog treats • dog waste bags • pet wipes (to wipe down pups after outside walks/play - DO NOT FLUSH) . • PET FEES: $25 per dog flat fee per stay. That goes to our cleaning crew for the extra time cleaning. Instructions to pay are on the check out sheet at the house.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
Add dates for prices
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The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights, lock the doors, and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Two week max booking preferred. If booking 2-4 weeks or more there will be an additional $135 fee per week for professionally cleaning.
People other than those on the guest list may not stay overnight in the property. Any other person in the property is the sole responsibility of guest
If you break any house rule or I receive noise complaints, you will be asked to leave and lost the entire cost of your stay.
Important information
You need to know
Property Registration Number RVC-1143
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
About the neighborhood
Idyllwild
Located in Idyllwild, this vacation home is in the city center and near a water park. Palm Springs Convention Center is a popular attraction and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Indian Canyon and Palm Canyon. Idyllwild Nature Center and Moorten Botanical Garden are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and motor boating nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and rock climbing.
Mount San Jacinto State Park - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
Idyllwild Park - 1 min drive - 1.2 km
Idyllwild Nature Center - 2 min drive - 1.5 km
Morongo Casino - 44 min drive - 54.5 km
Soboba Casino - 45 min drive - 51.6 km
Getting around
Palm Springs Station - 54 min drive
Palm Springs Intl. Airport (PSP) - 75 min drive
Restaurants
Mountain Center Cafe - 7 min drive
Alpaca Coffee & Tea - 17 min walk
Idyllwild Brewpub - 6 min walk
Idyllwild Village Market, Deli & Pizzeria - 5 min walk
Mama's Egg House - 6 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Best in town location•private•pro clean•dogs ok•kids play space•fire pit•loved! pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 3 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at Best in town location•private•pro clean•dogs ok•kids play space•fire pit•loved!?
As of May 7, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Best in town location•private•pro clean•dogs ok•kids play space•fire pit•loved! on May 11, 2026 start from $317, including 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.
How much is parking?
Onsite parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Best in town location•private•pro clean•dogs ok•kids play space•fire pit•loved!?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Best in town location•private•pro clean•dogs ok•kids play space•fire pit•loved!?
Check-out is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Best in town location•private•pro clean•dogs ok•kids play space•fire pit•loved! located?
Located in the heart of Idyllwild, this vacation home is within 1 mi (2 km) of San Jacinto Mountains, Mount San Jacinto State Park, and Idyllwild Park. Idyllwild Nature Center is 1.1 mi (1.8 km) away.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
The place had everything to make for a very comfortable stay. Really close to the main town square area, so we walked there all the time. Hosts were very communicative and responded to any and all requests very quickly.
Monica U.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Dec 19, 2025
Thanks for booking one of our homes Monica. We would love to host you and your family again soon :-)
The hostess very communicative and easy to work with. The location of this house truly is the best in town, no exaggeration. The backyard is really wonderful, especially for kids to wander and explore.
Sally L.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Dec 29, 2025
Thanks for choosing one of our homes Sally. Come again!
Charming house with private outdoor area featuring firepit, cooking area, and abundant seating. Cute house with terrific bedding and fireplace. Location is amazing; just steps from everything downtown.
Joseph O.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 15, 2025
Thanks so much for your stay! Come again to this home or one of our others.
I highly recommend the Cedar St. Retreat for a guest and dog friendly vacation! Located super close to town, this darling cabin has everything you'll need to enjoy your get-away in Idyllwild.
Bonnie M.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Jan 4, 2024
Thanks for being great guests Bonnie! Hope we can host you again in one of our 3 Idyllwild homes or our Palm Desert or San Diego location. Take care!
We had a great 10 days. Most of the time it was just my wife and I but our daughter and husband joined us for a couple of days. We loved the property with plenty of squirrels, jays and chipmunks. The description is spot-on and everything was as expected. Location is ideal for access to the town and restaurants. Kitchen was well-stocked if one wanted to eat in. We look forward to our next visit!
Chris T.
Stayed 10 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 27, 2025
Thanks so much Chris for bringing your family to our home! So happy you all had a wonderful time. Until next time...take care!
This house is so happy and relaxing and fun!!! It was clean and so well appointed with everything you need! The yard is a 10 to relax and for kids to play, it’s heaven. We were so sad to leave!
The house was lovely with great access to the town and restaurants. The owners were quick to respond to any questions we had and provided a great experience. The house has something for everyone, especially a fun hideaway loft for the kids.
We had an incredible weekend away with family. Exceptional home away from home experience on unique secluded property within walking distance of the local restaurants and shops. This place exceeded expectations.
Michael L.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 5, 2020
Thanks Michael! So happy you and your family had an amazing time. Come back again :-)
Loved everything about this spot. Easy walking access to everything downtown, and the surrounding gardens make you feel like you’re farther away from it all. The fresh apples off the tree and the lava room are a nice bonus.
Gerald W.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 28, 2024
So happy you all enjoyed your stay! Come again to this home or one of our others.
Melissa was a wonderful host and allowed us early entry in the rain. The kitchen was well stocked, quality bed linens & comforters & our grandson loved the lava lounge. We’ll definitely book here again.
Janet D.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Jan 13, 2022
Thank you Janet for choosing one of our homes and for the great review. Come on back anytime to this home or one of our others. Take care!
Melissa has created a wonderful holiday retreat in Cedar street with everything you could possibly need provided.
The location is perfect for walking into the town. We had a fantastic time.
If we're ever fortunate enough to return to the area this house would be our first choice for our stay.
Thomas M.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 5, 2020
Thank you so much Tom for this great review. I love that you had a wonderful stay. If ever you come back with a group of friends and family I have two other homes to meet their needs too!
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Leo L.
Jun 20, 2018
It's True - It is the Best Location
Our family loved this home and the beautiful patio. All the details were much appreciated. When we go back to Idyllwild, we will definitely stay here.
Leo L.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2018
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 5, 2020
Thanks so much to you and your family for loving my home and taking such great care of it. You are all welcome anytime!
Perfect location within a short walking distance to town. Property is clean and well stocked with everything you may need. Fluffy tailed squirrels put on a show all day long right out your windows.
Scott C.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 22, 2024
Thanks so much Scott for coming back again and again. We love guests like you and your family and greatly appreciate your returns.
About the host
Hosted by Melissa Wilson
WELCOME HOME! My homes are homes, not your typical vacation rental. I pride myself in making sure all homes are stocked and your needs are met and then some. In addition to being a 20+ year local and an artist/designer, I worked for the Hotel Del Coronado for years so I know five-star hospitality well. Everything you need is waiting for you and anything else you may want, just ask.
***MY HOMES ARE ALL PROFESSIONALLY CLEANED by my amazing cleaning crew. I pay my crew a living wage and tip them often to save you extra fees.
Please take a look at all nine of my listings (Inquire about my other listings not shown), read the reviews and choose the home that fits your needs www.vrbo.com/968530, www.vrbo.com/1106622, www.vrbo.com/1992097 and www.vrbo.com/1134743
I have been living in Idyllwild, working as an artist and teaching art at the local boarding high school, Idyllwild Arts Academy, for over 20 years. I started my renovation projects with my own 1955 total redesign and then wanted to share it with all of you. I love remodeling, designing and hospitality so much I decided to help others create their dream vacation rentals. I keep my business small so I can guarantee each guest gets the personal five-star treatment that you all deserve. I hope you feel the passion and love that went into all of these places and fall in love with their charismatic, cozy charm as much as I have. Relax, put your feet up, pour a glass of your favorite beverage and feel “home”.
Why they chose this property
***MY HOMES ARE ALL PROFESSIONALLY CLEANED by my amazing cleaning crew. I pay my crew a living wage and tip them often to save you extra fees.
Super comfortable, quiet, large home for entertaining and creating great memories. The location is the best! The 1/2 acre yard is amazing and so lush and natural. Both bathrooms have been completely remodeled.
What makes this property unique
Sit in the backyard and enjoy the abundance of wild life living and playing in the natural landscape.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests