10/10 Excellent
Bobby B.
7 Jul 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Unbelievable property with the BEST view!
Bobby B.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Entire home
Casa Grotto - 1 Bed Stone Cottage w/ Panoramic Ocean Views, Stone Shower, & Gym
Photo gallery for Casa Grotto - 1 Bed Stone Cottage w/ Panoramic Ocean Views, Stone Shower, & Gym
Reviews
10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1+ bathroomSleeps 2
Popular amenities
Explore the area
San Marcos, CA
- Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park2 min drive
- Aviara Golf Club9 min drive
- LEGOLAND® California11 min drive
- Carlsbad, CA (CLD-McClellan-Palomar)7 min drive
Rooms & beds
1 bedroom (sleeps 2)
Bedroom Area
1 Queen Bed
1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom
Main Bathroom
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Outdoor Shower
Shower only
Spaces
Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
About this property
Casa Grotto - 1 Bed Stone Cottage w/ Panoramic Ocean Views, Stone Shower, & Gym
Welcome to Casa Grotto, a one-of-a-kind hillside retreat perched 800 feet above sea level with breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean—from La Jolla all the way to the San Clemente Islands. Nestled on the lush green mountainside above Lake San Marcos, this private stone studio offers a peaceful escape where coastal serenity meets natural design.
Built into the hill using real stone from a 1970s dynamite blast, Casa Grotto is as unique as it gets. Inside, you’ll find organic materials, arched windows, and warm, modern finishes that honor the land it was built on. The space features a queen bed, full kitchen with concrete countertops and filtered water, a private gym (available on request), and a truly memorable stone shower—accessed from the bed area and illuminated by natural light from above.
Casa Grotto is perfect for solo travelers or couples seeking a calm, inspiring space to recharge. We’re just 4 miles from Cal State San Marcos—ideal for visiting parents, faculty, or alumni—15 miles from the Escondido wineries, and only 20 minutes from the coast and local beaches. If you're planning a beach day, we’re happy to provide surfboards and beach towels upon request. And don’t be surprised if our two friendly boxers stop by—they supervised the entire remodel and will gladly try to join your stay.
Built into the hill using real stone from a 1970s dynamite blast, Casa Grotto is as unique as it gets. Inside, you’ll find organic materials, arched windows, and warm, modern finishes that honor the land it was built on. The space features a queen bed, full kitchen with concrete countertops and filtered water, a private gym (available on request), and a truly memorable stone shower—accessed from the bed area and illuminated by natural light from above.
Casa Grotto is perfect for solo travelers or couples seeking a calm, inspiring space to recharge. We’re just 4 miles from Cal State San Marcos—ideal for visiting parents, faculty, or alumni—15 miles from the Escondido wineries, and only 20 minutes from the coast and local beaches. If you're planning a beach day, we’re happy to provide surfboards and beach towels upon request. And don’t be surprised if our two friendly boxers stop by—they supervised the entire remodel and will gladly try to join your stay.
Property manager
Ashley Ferrelli
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Amenities
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Gym
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House Rules
Check in after 2:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 11:00 AM
Children
Adults only
Events
No events allowed
Pets
No pets allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Important information
You need to know
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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
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
About the area
San Marcos
San Marcos is home to this cottage. LEGOLAND® California is a popular attraction and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Moonlight State Beach and Carlsbad State Beach. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Del Mar Racetrack or San Diego Polo Fields.
San Marcos, CA
What's nearby
- Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park - 2 min drive - 1.5 km
- La Costa Golf Courses - North and South - 6 min drive - 5.6 km
- Aviara Golf Club - 9 min drive - 9.0 km
- Flower Fields of Carlsbad - 11 min drive - 11.9 km
- LEGOLAND® California - 11 min drive - 11.2 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- Kotija Jr - 4 min drive
- Taco Bell - 6 min drive
- Amalfi Cucina Italiana - 5 min drive
- Senor Pancho Fresh Mexican Grill - 4 min drive
- Pizza Hut - 4 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window10/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Check-in
10/10
Communication
10/10
Location
10/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Kyle H.
24 Jun 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Unique Property!
Kyle H.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
About the host
Hosted by Ashley Ferrelli
We’re a husband-and-wife team who live on the property above Casa Grotto with our two friendly boxer dogs. We love design, nature, and creating spaces that feel peaceful, grounded, and connected to their surroundings. Hosting allows us to share this special corner of San Diego with others—whether you're here to relax, explore, or just breathe a little deeper. We're nearby if you need anything, but happy to give you full privacy during your stay.
Why they chose this property
We fell in love with this hillside for its quiet, elevated setting and its sweeping views of the coastline. It feels like a hidden corner of North County—tucked away, peaceful, and surrounded by nature, yet still just minutes from the beach, local trails, and great food. Being up here gives you a sense of calm and privacy, while still staying close to everything San Diego has to offer.
What makes this property unique
Casa Grotto was originally built in the 1980s using dynamite to blast into the hill—creating a truly one-of-a-kind stone structure. We've remodeled it into a cozy, peaceful studio that honors the original vision while adding thoughtful modern touches. Perched 800 feet above sea level with panoramic ocean views, it’s built into the hillside using real stone, with an indoor rock shower, fire pit, and access to a private gym. It's not just a place to sleep—it’s an experience.
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