10/10 Excellent
Logan L.
28 May, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice place to stay
Logan L.
Stayed 20 nights in May 2025
Entire home
The Spicy Cactus Casita | Modern, Cozy Stay by Trails, Dining, Shops, and Venues
Photo gallery for The Spicy Cactus Casita | Modern, Cozy Stay by Trails, Dining, Shops, and Venues
Reviews
10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% based on
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4850 sq ft
Popular amenities
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)
Bedroom 1
1 King Bed
Bedroom 2
1 King Bed
1 bathroom
Bathroom 1
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Spaces
Deck or patio
Kitchen
About this property
The Spicy Cactus Casita | Modern, Cozy Stay by Trails, Dining, Shops, and Venues
🌵 OVERVIEW — Modern, Cozy Casita Near Trails, Dining & Major Phoenix/Valley Venues. Your Perfect Phoenix Retreat.
Welcome to The Spicy Cactus, a stylish, serene, and comfortable two-bedroom casita tucked beside Shadow Mountain, where tranquility meets unbeatable convenience. Just steps from hiking trails and minutes from the Valley’s best dining, shopping, and entertainment. Enjoy quick access to venues like TPC Scottsdale, Footprint Center, Chase Field, Mayo Clinic, and Desert Ridge — all while staying in a peaceful, private retreat. Ideal for couples, solo travelers, business guests, golfers, or small families seeking comfort, convenience, and an unbeatable central location.
Continue reading below for full details about amenities, location highlights, and everything included in your stay.
🌵 Prime Central Location
Just 20 minutes from Sky Harbor Airport and minutes from the 51 & 101 freeways, you’ll have seamless access to all corners of Phoenix. A quick 3-minute walk takes you to Shadow Mountain Trail—perfect for sunrise hikes, cactus-dotted views, and desert photos.
🌵 Proximity to Venues, Sports, & Entertainment
You're staying in one of the most convenient home bases in the Valley. Popular destinations include:
Sports & Events
• TPC Scottsdale / Waste Management Open – 16 min
• Footprint Center (NBA, concerts) – 22 min
• Salt River Fields at Talking Stick – 21 min
• Chase Field (MLB) – 22 min
• San Francisco Giants Spring Training – 28 min
• State Farm Stadium (NFL) – 35 min
Healthcare: Mayo Clinic Phoenix – 12 min
Shopping & Dining
• Desert Ridge Marketplace – 10 min
• Kierland Commons / Scottsdale Quarter – 15–18 min
• Old Town Scottsdale – 25–30 min
Nature & Local Attractions
• Phoenix Mountain Preserve – 3 min
• MIM (Musical Instrument Museum) – 12 min
• Desert Botanical Garden / Papago Park / Zoo – 20 min
Colleges
• Paradise Valley Community College – 9 min
• Scottsdale Community College – 23 min
• Arizona State University – 28 min
This central location is one of the casita’s biggest advantages — guests consistently compliment the ease of getting everywhere.
🌵 Thoughtful Design & Comfortable Living
Crafted by a kitchen designer, the casita is curated for both beauty and function. Enjoy:
• A California King in one bedroom
• A King bed in the second bedroom
• A spa-like bathroom
• In-unit washer/dryer
• Laundry detergent, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, hand soap, and hair dryer
Perfect for weekend getaways or longer remote-work stays.
🌵 Private Outdoor Oasis
Relax on your private patio with morning coffee or unwind by the fire pit at night. Situated on a spacious corner lot, street parking is easy and plentiful.
🌵 Extras to Elevate Your Stay
• Board games for cozy nights in
• Pickleball lessons available from a certified coach (ask for details!)
• Easy access to rideshare + local transit: Turo, Uber, Lyft
• Fast WiFi & smart TV
• Self check-in for flexible, hassle-free arrivals
🌵 Guest Access
You’ll have private access to the guest casita, including your own exterior entrance and your own private patio. The walkway leading from the street to both the main home and the casita is shared, but once you reach the casita door, the entire space is yours.
Street parking is available directly in front and alongside the corner lot.
No garage or driveway parking is available for the casita.
🌵 Your Host
Communication is quick, friendly, and reliable. I’m nearby if you need anything, but you’ll enjoy full privacy during your stay.
🌵 QR Code Instructions (for guidebook / instructions)
• Open your device’s camera
• Point it at the QR code (no need to take a photo)
• A link will pop up
• Tap the link
🌵 Know Before You Book
Phoenix requires STR properties to follow specific city regulations. We are fully licensed and compliant to ensure a safe and legal stay for all guests.
Per City code and our permit, the casita cannot be used for:
• Non-residential or commercial use
• Events requiring a permit
• Retail, restaurant, or banquet operations
• Housing registered sex offenders
• Sober-living operations
• Sale of alcohol, illegal drugs, or pornography
• Adult entertainment
• Event center or large gatherings
• Any uses prohibited under A.R.S. § 9-500.39
This casita is intended for quiet, compliant, residential stays only. Thank you for helping keep Spicy Cactus safe, legal, and welcoming for everyone.
Permit STR-2024-002765 • TPT 21558941
Welcome to The Spicy Cactus, a stylish, serene, and comfortable two-bedroom casita tucked beside Shadow Mountain, where tranquility meets unbeatable convenience. Just steps from hiking trails and minutes from the Valley’s best dining, shopping, and entertainment. Enjoy quick access to venues like TPC Scottsdale, Footprint Center, Chase Field, Mayo Clinic, and Desert Ridge — all while staying in a peaceful, private retreat. Ideal for couples, solo travelers, business guests, golfers, or small families seeking comfort, convenience, and an unbeatable central location.
Continue reading below for full details about amenities, location highlights, and everything included in your stay.
🌵 Prime Central Location
Just 20 minutes from Sky Harbor Airport and minutes from the 51 & 101 freeways, you’ll have seamless access to all corners of Phoenix. A quick 3-minute walk takes you to Shadow Mountain Trail—perfect for sunrise hikes, cactus-dotted views, and desert photos.
🌵 Proximity to Venues, Sports, & Entertainment
You're staying in one of the most convenient home bases in the Valley. Popular destinations include:
Sports & Events
• TPC Scottsdale / Waste Management Open – 16 min
• Footprint Center (NBA, concerts) – 22 min
• Salt River Fields at Talking Stick – 21 min
• Chase Field (MLB) – 22 min
• San Francisco Giants Spring Training – 28 min
• State Farm Stadium (NFL) – 35 min
Healthcare: Mayo Clinic Phoenix – 12 min
Shopping & Dining
• Desert Ridge Marketplace – 10 min
• Kierland Commons / Scottsdale Quarter – 15–18 min
• Old Town Scottsdale – 25–30 min
Nature & Local Attractions
• Phoenix Mountain Preserve – 3 min
• MIM (Musical Instrument Museum) – 12 min
• Desert Botanical Garden / Papago Park / Zoo – 20 min
Colleges
• Paradise Valley Community College – 9 min
• Scottsdale Community College – 23 min
• Arizona State University – 28 min
This central location is one of the casita’s biggest advantages — guests consistently compliment the ease of getting everywhere.
🌵 Thoughtful Design & Comfortable Living
Crafted by a kitchen designer, the casita is curated for both beauty and function. Enjoy:
• A California King in one bedroom
• A King bed in the second bedroom
• A spa-like bathroom
• In-unit washer/dryer
• Laundry detergent, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, hand soap, and hair dryer
Perfect for weekend getaways or longer remote-work stays.
🌵 Private Outdoor Oasis
Relax on your private patio with morning coffee or unwind by the fire pit at night. Situated on a spacious corner lot, street parking is easy and plentiful.
🌵 Extras to Elevate Your Stay
• Board games for cozy nights in
• Pickleball lessons available from a certified coach (ask for details!)
• Easy access to rideshare + local transit: Turo, Uber, Lyft
• Fast WiFi & smart TV
• Self check-in for flexible, hassle-free arrivals
🌵 Guest Access
You’ll have private access to the guest casita, including your own exterior entrance and your own private patio. The walkway leading from the street to both the main home and the casita is shared, but once you reach the casita door, the entire space is yours.
Street parking is available directly in front and alongside the corner lot.
No garage or driveway parking is available for the casita.
🌵 Your Host
Communication is quick, friendly, and reliable. I’m nearby if you need anything, but you’ll enjoy full privacy during your stay.
🌵 QR Code Instructions (for guidebook / instructions)
• Open your device’s camera
• Point it at the QR code (no need to take a photo)
• A link will pop up
• Tap the link
🌵 Know Before You Book
Phoenix requires STR properties to follow specific city regulations. We are fully licensed and compliant to ensure a safe and legal stay for all guests.
Per City code and our permit, the casita cannot be used for:
• Non-residential or commercial use
• Events requiring a permit
• Retail, restaurant, or banquet operations
• Housing registered sex offenders
• Sober-living operations
• Sale of alcohol, illegal drugs, or pornography
• Adult entertainment
• Event center or large gatherings
• Any uses prohibited under A.R.S. § 9-500.39
This casita is intended for quiet, compliant, residential stays only. Thank you for helping keep Spicy Cactus safe, legal, and welcoming for everyone.
Permit STR-2024-002765 • TPT 21558941
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
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House Rules
Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
Events
No events allowed
Pets
No pets allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Outdoor smoking only
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
CHECK-OUT TIME
10:00 AM, unless other arrangements have been agreed to. If you need a little flexibility, just let me know and I’ll help if I can. Please let me know your estimated departure time.
THERMOSTAT
Please ensure all lights and fans are turned off.
For energy-saving settings, upon departure, please set thermostat:
• Summer: 78–80°
• Winter: 65–67°
HOUSECLEANING
You may leave the home as is — no cleaning needed. Our cleaning crew will handle linens, trash, and any leftover food and beverage.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
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
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
We should mention
This property does not have any lifts
A car is required for transport to and from this property
About the area
Phoenix
Located in North Phoenix, a neighbourhood in Phoenix, this holiday home is in the mountains. Kierland Commons and Biltmore Fashion Park are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Camelback Mountain and Desert Botanical Garden. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Chase Field or Westworld of Scottsdale. Practise your golf swing on a nearby course, or enjoy other activities in the great outdoors, such as hiking/biking trails, mountain biking and ecotours in the area.
Phoenix, AZ
What's nearby
- Shadow Mountain Preserve - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
- Phoenix First Assembly of God - 17 min walk - 1.5 km
- AMF Desert Hills Lanes - 4 min drive - 3.4 km
- Grand Canyon University - 20 min drive - 22.2 km
- Arizona State University - 28 min drive - 42.4 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- Plaza Mexicana - 17 min walk
- McDonald's - 3 min drive
- Circle K - 3 min drive
- Valle Luna - 2 min drive
- Taco Bell - 3 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
9.6/10
Location
10/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Angela P.
26 Jan, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy and Comfortable Little House
Angela P.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025
10/10 Excellent
John and Shirley L.
2 Mar, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Comfortable and convenient
John and Shirley L.
Stayed 27 nights in Feb 2022
10/10 Excellent
Larry L.
21 Oct, 2017
Great Stay
Larry L.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2017
10/10 Excellent
Elaine S.
27 Nov, 2017
Phoenix Getaway
Elaine S.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2017
10/10 Excellent
laura m.
5 Jan, 2018
Above my Expectations!
laura m.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2017
10/10 Excellent
Brennan B.
27 Feb, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Brennan B.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
10/10 Excellent
Miriam J.
25 Feb, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Miriam J.
Stayed 14 nights in Feb 2026
10/10 Excellent
SARA C., Castle Rock, CO USA
2 Jan, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Phoenix Getaway
SARA C.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021
10/10 Excellent
Cathie S., Gundershoffen France
1 Nov, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellente maison d'hôtes
Cathie S.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveller
9 Jun, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Hidden treasure in NE Phoenix
Verified traveller
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021
10/10 Excellent
Tiffnie J.
5 May, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is THE PLACE for you!!!
Tiffnie J.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2021
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveller
29 Mar, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Felt Like Home
Verified traveller
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2021
10/10 Excellent
Carol K.
8 Feb, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Just what we needed
Carol K.
Stayed 18 nights in Jan 2021
10/10 Excellent
Nancy L.
7 Aug, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A pleasant surprise!!!
Nancy L.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020
10/10 Excellent
John B.
28 Mar, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cut Short by Covid-19
John B.
Stayed 15 nights in Mar 2020
8/10 Good
Don S., Trumansburg
8 Mar, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Very pleasant
Don S.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2020
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveller
8 Feb, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to stay
Verified traveller
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2020
10/10 Excellent
Lisa S.
27 Dec, 2018
Return visit for us. Comfortable and convenient.
Lisa S.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2018
10/10 Excellent
Danielle M., Charleston, SC
8 Nov, 2018
AMAZING!
Danielle M.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2018
This review is from a guest who booked and stayed through a partner site and can't be verified.
10/10 Excellent
Kandi C.
9 May, 2018
Awesome house
Kandi C.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2018
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveller
12 Mar, 2018
Beautiful property which is well located in the Phoenix area.
Verified traveller
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2018
10/10 Excellent
Amy H.
22 Feb, 2018
Loved it!
Amy H.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
10/10 Excellent
Lisa S.
18 Dec, 2017
North Phoenix get-away
Lisa S.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.
10/10 Excellent
Linda C.
4 Nov, 2017
Daniel and Rosemarie were excellent hosts! They made sure we had everything we needed.
Linda C.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2017
About the host
Hosted by Jennifer Doolittle
Born in Chicago, I grew up between Charlotte, Saudi Arabia, San Francisco, and Mexico — my family lived abroad for many years, so travel and cultural curiosity are a big part of who I am. I eventually settled in Phoenix in 2010, and absolutely love the desert, the people, and the lifestyle here.
I’m a single mom to two teens and a rescue poodle mix named Pickles. I work in fintech and play pickleball (since 2018!), love ping-pong, and enjoy exploring local restaurants, hiking spots, and hidden gems I can share with guests.
Hosting comes naturally to me — I’ve stayed in homes all over the world and now host three properties of my own. I care deeply about being a considerate, communicative host and a respectful guest when I travel. My goal is always to make your stay easy, comfortable, and memorable.
I’m nearby if you need anything, and I’m always happy to share recommendations or help you plan the perfect trip.
I’m a single mom to two teens and a rescue poodle mix named Pickles. I work in fintech and play pickleball (since 2018!), love ping-pong, and enjoy exploring local restaurants, hiking spots, and hidden gems I can share with guests.
Hosting comes naturally to me — I’ve stayed in homes all over the world and now host three properties of my own. I care deeply about being a considerate, communicative host and a respectful guest when I travel. My goal is always to make your stay easy, comfortable, and memorable.
I’m nearby if you need anything, and I’m always happy to share recommendations or help you plan the perfect trip.
Why they chose this property
I actually fell in love with the home first — and then discovered I’d landed in one of my favorite pockets of Phoenix. What started as an emotional connection to the space turned into a love for the entire neighborhood. My favorite taco spot (El Super Taco) is just around the corner, along with fun dive bars, great restaurants, and quick access to the venues where I watch comedians, musicians, and local events.
I also appreciate being so close to the 51 and 101 freeways, grocery stores, and my gym — everything I need is just minutes away. And as a bonus, there’s a beautiful little hiking trail only a 3-minute walk from my front door. It’s become one of my favorite parts of living here.
Check the Guidebook for suggestions!
I also appreciate being so close to the 51 and 101 freeways, grocery stores, and my gym — everything I need is just minutes away. And as a bonus, there’s a beautiful little hiking trail only a 3-minute walk from my front door. It’s become one of my favorite parts of living here.
Check the Guidebook for suggestions!
What makes this property unique
The Spicy Cactus is special because it blends intentional design, comfort, and character with a relaxed, welcoming desert vibe. A close friend who is a designer helped bring my vision to life — clean lines, thoughtful touches, and a curated feel without being fussy. Most guests are pleasantly surprised by how calming and comfortable the space feels the moment they walk in.
The casita sits just steps from a neighborhood hiking trail, surrounded by cactus-filled views and tucked into a quiet corner of a centrally located community. I’ve added small conveniences throughout — from cozy outdoor seating to well-stocked essentials — so guests can settle in easily and feel at home quickly.
It’s a space created with heart, lived-in joy, and the spirit of sharing my favorite part of Phoenix with visitors.
The casita sits just steps from a neighborhood hiking trail, surrounded by cactus-filled views and tucked into a quiet corner of a centrally located community. I’ve added small conveniences throughout — from cozy outdoor seating to well-stocked essentials — so guests can settle in easily and feel at home quickly.
It’s a space created with heart, lived-in joy, and the spirit of sharing my favorite part of Phoenix with visitors.
Languages:
English, Spanish
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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