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Modern Canyon Retreat - Near Balboa Park, Downtown, Zoo & Beaches

Photo gallery for Modern Canyon Retreat - Near Balboa Park, Downtown, Zoo & Beaches

Tucked behind a gate in a canyon
Property video
Lush landscape that pollinators and birds call home.
Plent of seating for reading a book or bird watching.
Take a nap in the hammock or read a book.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% based on
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 61275 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View in a map
San Diego, CA
  • Place, Hotel Circle
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Fashion Valley Mall
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Place, University of San Diego
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Airport, San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)
    ‪9 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Downstairs Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Living Room King Sleeper

1 King Bed

Loft

1 King Bed

1 bathroom

Main Floor Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Office
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Modern Canyon Retreat - Near Balboa Park, Downtown, Zoo & Beaches

Private Canyon Retreat | Quiet Luxury in Central San Diego
A Rare Blend of Privacy & Proximity

Tucked into a serene canyon setting, this modern retreat offers complete privacy while placing you minutes from San Diego’s most sought-after destinations. Enjoy the rare feeling of being surrounded by nature—without sacrificing convenience.

The Experience

Wake to hummingbirds drifting through the garden and soft canyon light filling the space. Start your morning with coffee on the patio, spend your day exploring beaches or Balboa Park, and return to unwind with sunset dining in your own private outdoor retreat.

This is a space designed to slow you down.

The Space

Thoughtfully designed with a clean, modern aesthetic, the home blends comfort with understated luxury.

Open-concept living with abundant natural light

Seamless indoor-outdoor flow

Calm, design-forward atmosphere

Ideal for both short stays and extended visits

Kitchen & Living

The chef-ready kitchen is fully equipped for everything from casual mornings to relaxed evenings in.

Fully stocked kitchen for cooking and dining

Comfortable living area designed for relaxation

Roku TV for streaming your favorite shows

Air conditioning for year-round comfort

Outdoor Living (Highlight Feature)

Your private patio is the heart of the home.

Outdoor dining and lounge space

BBQ grill for al fresco meals

Peaceful canyon backdrop

Ideal for morning coffee or sunset wine

Work & Extended Stays

Perfect for professionals and longer visits.

High-speed Wi-Fi

Dedicated workspace

Quiet setting for focus and productivity

Location | Central to Everything

Enjoy quick access to San Diego’s top destinations:

Minutes to Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo

Short drive to beaches and the coastline

Easy access to downtown dining and nightlife

Convenient to major freeways for exploring the region

Included Amenities

Everything you need for a seamless stay:

Washer and dryer

Beach essentials for coastal days

Fast Wi-Fi

Streaming entertainment

Ideal For

This home is best suited for:

Couples seeking a private, peaceful escape

Professionals working remotely

Travelers looking for a refined, design-forward stay

Why Guests Choose This Home

Rare private canyon setting in a central location

Elevated, modern design with a calm atmosphere

Dedicated outdoor living space

Close to everything—yet feels completely removed

Your San Diego Escape

Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, this home offers a level of privacy, comfort, and thoughtful design that sets it apart.

More than a place to stay—it’s a place to unwind.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
Noise monitor in use as well outdoor surveillance
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Absolutely No Smoking or Vaping on or around .

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
No open flames in or around property. Fires in our canyons are a major concern.
We are strict about parties, gatherings, vaping and smoking. NONE are allowed.

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
Note from host: Noise monitor in use as well outdoor surveillance
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, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Property Registration Number STR-01657L, 632221

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

San Diego

Located in Mission Valley, a neighbourhood in San Diego, this holiday home is near theme parks and by the sea. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Mission Bay and Old Town San Diego State Park, while San Diego Zoo and Waterfront Park are popular area attractions. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Petco Park or Snapdragon Stadium. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
San Diego, CA

What's nearby

  • Hotel Circle - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Fashion Valley Mall - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Riverwalk Golf Club - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • University of San Diego - 3 min drive - 3.4 km
  • Old Town San Diego State Park - 3 min drive - 4.1 km

Getting around

  • Fashion Valley Transit Center Station - 3 min drive
  • Old Town Transit Center - 5 min drive
  • San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) - 14 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Hampton’s “On The House” Breakfast - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Monkey Bar - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Crust Kitchen - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Communion - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪The Remy - ‬19 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Modern Canyon Retreat - Near Balboa Park, Downtown, Zoo & Beaches pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Modern Canyon Retreat - Near Balboa Park, Downtown, Zoo & Beaches?

As of 22 Mar, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Modern Canyon Retreat - Near Balboa Park, Downtown, Zoo & Beaches on 23 May, 2026 start from S$378, 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 at Modern Canyon Retreat - Near Balboa Park, Downtown, Zoo & Beaches?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Modern Canyon Retreat - Near Balboa Park, Downtown, Zoo & Beaches?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Modern Canyon Retreat - Near Balboa Park, Downtown, Zoo & Beaches?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Modern Canyon Retreat - Near Balboa Park, Downtown, Zoo & Beaches located?

Located in Mission Valley, this holiday home is 0.7 mi (1.1 km) from Hotel Circle and within 3 miles (5 km) of Mission Bay and University of San Diego. Fashion Valley Mall and UC San Diego Health are also within 2 miles (3 km). Fashion Valley Transit Center Station is 28 minutes by foot.

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 25 out of 32 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 32 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 32 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 32 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 32 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

James R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was a great house to stay at! While the drive back to the house may make you wonder, it is like arriving at an oasis when you enter the gate. The location is wonderful as it was easy to get everywhere. We definitely would stay here again!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

justine m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
great location! Stacy was easy to reach and very responsive!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sergey M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice house,nice location.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Linda W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful and nice location
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Daniel A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved our stay here. It was nestled in the hills and felt very serene and secluded. Location was great with easy access to beaches and downtown San Diego including the San Diego Zoo. Communication was fantastic, and the property manager was very helpful. If we go back to San Diego we would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Eileen C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful grounds and location.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrea J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place and yard!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

marc u.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This place was awesome
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was fabulous!
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karine D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location, nice house, very quiet, loved the garden
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kate A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
I have stayed at several VRBOs, nationally as well as internationally. This one had the best communication by far! I almost don't want to leave a review and keep this little gem to myself. I will definitely be booking again. It is centrally located to everything in San Diego. It is a bit "quirky" to get to, but it is located in a very safe and quiet area. We were down in the hustle and bustle of town and then retreated to our private gated sanctuary. The kitchen was well.stocked - it even had a Kitchenaid stand mixer as well as all the other appliances you would need. I didn't get to cook much but now that I know will take advantage next time. The round dining table is perfect for meals or playing board games. There is plenty of parking behind the automatic gate. I appreciated the extra towels, sheets, and pillows. Perfect for a small family or two couples. We were a family of 5 - 2 parents with 3 adult children.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Paula J.

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

Cottage place

Nice, clean and quiet location
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Claudio R.

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

Enjoyed our stay

Enjoyed our stay. We had a problem with closing of front gate but owner helped resolve the problem.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mike S.

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

Great property, very clean

An absolute Gem! Highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chris B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A wonderful house in prime location. Our family loved this property. It is in a prime location with easy access to highways and was minutes away from everything we did while in town. The property is tucked behind some office buildings and provides a Avery private space. The property is well kept and beautiful with small wildlife abundant (small lizards, butterflies, hummingbirds).Would highly recommend this property if you're in town!
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael C.

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

San Diego Hidden Gem

A hidden gem in a central location. It exceeded our expectations especially the outdoor garden patio.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved our stay at this Mission Valley property! The location was perfect—close to the airport, SDSU, and with easy access to I-5. The gated entry made us feel safe and gave total privacy, and the certified wildlife habitat made the property feel extra special.The house was beautiful, the kitchen had everything we needed (modern appliances, cookware, and even a gas grill), which made cooking at home super convenient.Stacey was a fantastic host—quick to respond and always checked in to make sure we had what we needed. Highly recommend this place to anyone visiting San Diego!
Picture of the beautiful garden
Looking off into the horizon from the driveway
Great that the house came with a Tesla charger
Picture of beautiful garden
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Henry L.

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

What a wonderful getaway

Property is secluded and location is within couple minutes to freeway entrance.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Matthew H.

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

Great, quiet location!

We really enjoyed the location with how quiet it was. It was close enough to the highway to get most anywhere easily. The house is hidden back in behind some businesses, but wasn't too hard to find. The owner was very communicative, we had everything we needed for our stay.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

kate s.

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

We liked the house.

We have rented in San Diego a half dozen times in the last couple years. This was a great house in terms of good indoor and outdoor spaces, comfort, privacy, a lovely yard, a good kitchen and other amenities. The bed was comfortable. It also has good access to the freeways. You must have a car. The house is not in a walkable neighborhood.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary Lou S.

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

Beautiful property and Quiet Stay -

Beautiful!!! Birds and Butterflies. The garden and landscaping is top notch and it has a beautiful outdoor seating to appreciate it all. The house is beautiful,clean and close to everything. Kitchen is well appointed. Quality beds and linens. LOVED IT!!. It was so private we didn't feel like were in a big city. Highly recommend it. ML
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marina D.

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

Fantastic house

The house is fantastic and in an amazing location. There are no neighbors, you are isolated from everyone. The house was super clean and spacious. Stacey, the property manager, is extremely responsive. Any issues we had were dealt with right away. Bring your when dishwasher tablets, there were only 2 provided, which was a bit weird. Would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2021
Verified

8/10 Good

Kathleen D.

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

Bi annual visit to see the kids

Grandparents visiting son, daughter in law and grandson. We needed a kitchen so that we could provide Grams goodies. We also needed A/C. This property delivered on both. Very clean and lovely decor, both inside and outside. Our only disappointment was the actual area where the property is located. We both felt that the rate was a good value. If this prperty were in a better neighborhood it would have ben 3 X the cost. That said, we always felt safe and secure.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

8/10 Good

Jon l.

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

New Years Visit

Overall this was a great property to stay at. It is a very serene location as described with ample outdoor seating. It was cooler the whole time that we were in town so we didn't get to take full advantage of that. The house was clean and spacious for a 2 bedroom, and the kitchen was extraordinarily equipped! We would absolutely stay at this house again, but several items of feedback that we wanted to give. First, the supplies provided were slim (i.e. toilet paper, trash bags etc.) There were 2 of each item and for 4 adults over 5 days this wasn't enough. Though the Host did respond quickly to drop off extra items it felt inconvenient. Second, the Pack and Play mattress is very discolored and appears dirty. We used the sheet provided as well as one we brought along, but first impressions on seeing it weren't great. Lastly, the guest bedroom downstairs is very limited on outlets and it was very difficult to plug everything we needed to in the room.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Aline C.

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

Your on slice of paradise

Stayed at the cottage 5 nights and my family and I had the best time. The property is immaculate and has all you need in order to have a phenomenal time while in SD. The gardens was my absolute favorite part of the house and my kids enjoyed watching the birds bathe in the water fountain outside, butterfly watching and searching for a friendly small lizard they found while exploring. The house is packed with all the things one would need while on vacation and we grilled out and enjoyed a nice evening at the cottage 3 nights out of 5 (after spending all day long enjoying SD it was nice to chill at the cottage). The cottage feels very very safe and its pretty secluded from other homes so you are tucked away in your own little paradise. I have nothing but amazing things to say about our experience while there. Stacey, the property manager, was promptly available to answer any questions and was an angel in helping us when my husband had a medical emergency due to his personal health. Stacey was understanding, caring and very flexible with our family as we made sure my husband's health was taken care of. All and all, we loved our stay at the cottage and we are already planning to come back next year. Ooh, the beds were so comfortable and the towels/bed sheets smelled amazing clean and fresh. 5 stars!! Thank you Stacey for making us all feel at home while in your home.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024

About the host

Hosted by Stacey

Host profile image
A New Jersey Native, I purchased a Winter Home in Southern California back in 2007 and soon after decided to make the full-time move WEST because of the Sun and the weather that is conducive to my active lifestyle. We are 2.5 hours from Palm Springs, LA, DisneyLand and minutes from La Jolla, Del Mar, Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, downtown San Diego, the Convention Center and 20 minutes to Tijuana.

Why they chose this property

Location, Location , Location. San Diego is home to one of the most temperate climates. It is close to the water and is within driving distance of mountains, ski resorts, deserts and hiking.

What makes this property unique

When the automated gate opens, and you enter a beautifully landscaped yard, It's not what you would expect. I love that the house is like a tree house and is secluded yet so central to all San Diego has to offer. Love watching the many species of birds and the private spaces.

Languages:

English, Spanish

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