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Hillcrest SERENITY: Canyon views | walk to San Diego Zoo & Balboa Park

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Photo gallery for Hillcrest SERENITY: Canyon views | walk to San Diego Zoo & Balboa Park

Point of interest
Outdoor dining
Smart TV
2 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, WiFi, bed sheets
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6947 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Pet friendly
  • Air conditioning
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
San Diego, CA
  • San Diego Zoo
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Balboa Park
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Hotel Circle
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)
    ‪16 min drive‬

Room options

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About the neighborhood

San Diego

Located in Hillcrest within a short walk of San Diego Zoo, this vacation home is within a few miles (5 km) of other popular sights such as Balboa Park. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a balcony, and a refrigerator.
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What's nearby

  • San Diego Zoo - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Balboa Park - 4 min drive - 2.3 miles
  • Hotel Circle - 4 min drive - 2.9 miles
  • Petco Park - 5 min drive - 2.8 miles
  • San Diego Convention Center - 6 min drive - 3.4 miles

Getting around

  • City College Trolley Station - 4 min drive
  • Old Town Transit Center - 11 min drive
  • San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN) - 16 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Sydney's Grill - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Hua Mei Cafe - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Rich's - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪The New Gossip Grill - ‬12 min walk

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Hillcrest SERENITY: Canyon views | walk to San Diego Zoo & Balboa Park

This beautiful duplex (upstairs unit) located one block away from the world renowned San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park with its 17 museums and cultural institutions. It is within a 10-15 min drive/Uber/Lyft to the Airport, Downtown, Gasslamp District, La Jolla, etc. Our place is newly remodeled with new appliances and beautiful finishes and details. It features two bedrooms, one bath, a beautiful deck and yard that overlook a spectacular canyon in a quiet and safe neighborhood.

High speed Internet 300Mbps up and down, designated parking spot.

Host available 100% of the time.

Hillcrest is a neighborhood in San Diego located northwest of Balboa Park. It is an accepting urban village with a small town feel. Hillcrest is known for its tolerance, diversity and locally-owned businesses including eclectic restaurants, cafes, bars, clubs and boutique shopping. It is also known for its salons and spas, medical offices, two major hospitals and the largest concentration of LGBTQ+ owned businesses in the city.

Balboa Park is a cultural oasis that includes 17 museums, gardens galore and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. At 1,200 acres, Balboa Park is one of North America’s most iconic urban parks and a must see on any visit to San Diego

Hillcrest is among the most walkable neighborhoods in San Diego with a neighborhood Walk Score of 87. Rideshare easily accessible. Many Bird scooters and bikes near by. Nearby public transportation by bus and citywide trolley. Very convenient via Uber/Lyft.

Pet friendly, $99 per stay!
Being in the heart of the city, Balboa Park and Hillcrest are accessible by a number of major streets. Additionally, Hillcrest is among the most walkable neighborhoods in San Diego with a neighborhood Walk Score of 87. Rideshare is easily accessible. Many Bird scooters and bikes nearby.
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and a balcony, and there's space to spread out with 2 bedrooms. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a coffee maker, and an ironing board.

Property manager

Efrain Cabas

Languages

English, Spanish

Similar properties

Property grounds

Beautiful Hillcrest CANYON VIEW. Walk to Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo/Pet Friendly

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, 38 reviews
Beautiful Hillcrest CANYON VIEW. Walk to Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo/Pet Friendly

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table

Entertainment

  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo

Things to do

  • Theme park nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Unit size: 947 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Service animals exempt from fees

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
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
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
Property Registration Number 636184, STR-04339L

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.

Property is also known as

272644

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do close to this vacation home?

This vacation home is situated in Hillcrest within a short 13-minute walk of San Diego Zoo and also 17 minutes on foot from San Diego Natural History Museum. You'll also find Balboa Park and Petco Park within a short drive.

Is there parking available at this vacation home?

No, there isn't parking available at the vacation home.

Is this vacation home next to a casino?

No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at this vacation home?

No, there is no indoor pool at this vacation home.

What do couples enjoy most about Hillcrest SERENITY: Canyon views | walk to San Diego Zoo & Balboa Park?

Couples will appreciate amenities at this vacation home, including a kitchen and a smart TV in each accommodation and kitchens in some.

Does Hillcrest SERENITY: Canyon views | walk to San Diego Zoo & Balboa Park have a hot tub?

No, this vacation home doesn't have a spa tub.

Does this vacation home offer breakfast?

No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.

Does this vacation home allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although pets can't stay for free, they are welcome at this vacation home.

Are there connecting rooms at this vacation home?

No, there aren't connecting rooms at this vacation home.

What is the closest airport to this vacation home?

The closest major airport to this vacation home is San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN), which is 5.5 mi away (16 minutes by car). Another top airport is San Diego, CA (MYF-Montgomery Field), which is located 7.6 mi away (14-minute drive).

Are there rooms with balconies at Hillcrest SERENITY: Canyon views | walk to San Diego Zoo & Balboa Park?

Yes, every accommodation at Hillcrest SERENITY: Canyon views | walk to San Diego Zoo & Balboa Park comes with a balcony.

Hillcrest SERENITY: Canyon views | walk to San Diego Zoo & Balboa Park Reviews

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 18 out of 23 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 23 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 23 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 23 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 23 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

David M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Staircase

My only issues were the distance from the door and staircase. I'm over 70, so I would have liked, perhaps a sliding gate. I missed having a coffee table and end table, but generally it was what it promised to be. I left early NOT because of my stay, but even though there is good parking at the Airb&b, but the city streets. I cant walk miles to see this very special area.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

6/10 Okay

Jana S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Quiet and Quaint but Some Opportunities For Improvement

The neighborhood was quiet, safe and within good proximity to everything we wanted to do (zoo, beach, La Jolla). Check in was super easy.Things we really liked: comfortable beds, abundance of hot water, high capacity washer/dryer in unit, updated appliances all around, complimentary laundry pods and dish soap.Improvement opportunities: kitchen is lacking fundamentals such as pot holders, measuring cups, oven dishes, salt and a mixing bowl. I found it difficult to cook, which is the reason I rented a VRBO as opposed to a hotel. The items mentioned are standard in hotels with kitchenettes because they are basic cooking needs. They are fairly cheap additions that would go a long way.Im not sure what was going on with the mini split AC/heat but when the vent rotates, it starts a high pitch squeal so loud that it's easily heard from outside. We had to turn it off in order to sleep.We were on the upper floor of the duplex, and the first morning we were woken up by pounding and screaming from below. I have no idea what was going on, but I suspect a young child was slamming doors/cabinets and hitting the wall. I dont know what can be done for that other than invest in some sound deadening materials or find tenants who aren't oblivious to others. The pullout couch is incredibly uncomfortable with a bar that pokes through when lying down. I believe this was mentioned in prior reviews.I hope the owners see this as constructive feedback as opposed to criticism as they seem n
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Namita A., Yuma,AZ

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful place, neighborhood and host!

the area is convenient to everything. We’ve stayed at Efrain’s properties multiple times and have never been disappointed. The communication is always good and the place is always clean and as described with everything in working order. Would highly recommend and stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

A. R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Location; Comfy Accommodation

This property has all the amenities needed and was clean and comfortable. There is a lovely outdoor space that overlooks one of San Diego's many canyons. The hosts were exceptionally responsive with communications. The property is located near historic Marston Hills, with beautiful homes and gardens. It is also very close to Balboa park as well as publicly accessible canyons. Shopping is mere minutes away and having a dedicated parking space made coming and going very easy!
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Heidi T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Host was so helpful and attentive!

We had a great stay at our place. The location was so central we could walk many places…including bird watching and grocery shopping. Our host Efrain was also wonderful. He was very kind helpful and very quickly answered all our questions!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robert M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Zoo trip

This was the perfect place for our zoo vacation. We loved the location. It is within easy walking distance to Balboa park and the zoo as well as all the restaurants/cafes on University. The two bedroom was clean, well supplied and cute. While small, it was a good size for me, my wife, our adult daughter, her friend and her service dog. We greatly appreciated the complimentary snacks and sodas provided by the host. Overall, a great experience. We would definitely stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nathan J.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great little spot!

Everything you could want at a reasonable price! Whole place was clean and open; balcony surrounded by trees was perfect!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amanda B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Family weekend in SD

Great place to stay with the kids. Cute neighborhood. Close to the zoo and walkable to restaurants, shops, and public transit. The stairs up to the apartment are steep but were fine for our bigger kids.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lauren L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great for our family

This was a great place to stay in the Balboa Park area. Our family of 4 (two parents, two kids- age 10 and 7) stayed comfortably. The neighborhood was quiet and safe. This was an easy driving distance to the activities we wanted to do. Overall, would recommend!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Scott R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Accommodations

Nice Condo
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sharon R.

Liked: Cleanliness

A welcome rest

Quiet neighborhood. Walk to the zoo and trader Joe's. Comfortable beds and nice amenities. Hot water was very hot!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Angela G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Relaxing, charming place

We had a lovely stay here - proximity to Balboa meant there was plenty to enjoy car-free. The place was clean and a very nice space. We especially loved the little patio where we could see an avacado tree, lemon tree and lots of beautiful greenery. We'd stay here again!
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kim D., St. Paul, MN

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Location

The place was located in a great neighborhood. Easy to get to so many places - Zoo, downtown, Coronado Island. Everything within 15 minute drive.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024

8/10 Good

Leslie L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Get Comfortable

This sweet little apartment is straightforward and cozy; if you're seeking a place, however, for a louder bunch, you may want to consider a different abode. However, we'll keep this one in mind for ourselves in the future -- it suited our needs well, and the locale to Balboa Park is prime!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Nice property in lovely neighborhood.

Overall the property was nice and was in a lovely and safe neighborhood. We stayed for 2 nights and it was comfortable. However when we 1st entered the property, there was a really overwhelming musty smell. We had to open all the windows to get rid of that smell. All in all.. good value for money except the one problem I mentioned.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jim C., Toronto, 270 Kennedy Ave, M6P3C3

Liked: Cleanliness

Great place to stay in San Diego

Lovely 2 bedroom apartment in quiet neighborhood, accurately described in the photos. Good access to most San Diego attractions. Comfortable beds, nice outdoor patio. Kitchen was adequate for eating in..
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024

6/10 Okay

Paula h.

Liked: Cleanliness

stars to enter very sleep for older person,microwavenot reachable, nocoffeemaker,just kerig

TV not connected.emailed ownerbut issuenot resolved. difficult unit to stay in if notfitto walkupsteepsteps.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Katie D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect Place for Our Weekend Getaway

This VRBO was everything we needed for a long weekend! It was very generously and thoughtfully appointed with a basket of snacks and some drinks in the refrigerator, and the bathroom was well-stocked with enough toilet paper for our trip. The place was tidy and located near the things we wanted to do. Something that the listing left out is how incredible the view from the patio is! Definitely take the time to have your morning coffee while enjoying the lush canyon, playful birds, and gorgeous avocado tree. We wouldn't hesitate to come back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Leigha C.

Liked: Cleanliness

comic con stay

Location was perfect for comic con
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Steven M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful and quiet!!!

This is a gem. Close to everything and very clean and quiet!! Couldn't believe how quiet! Amenities are 2nd to none and communication with the owner was perfect. We will definitely book again for our next trip!! Thank you, Efrain!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gerald B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Location

Location was great, walking distance to Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo. The neighborhood was nice and quiet. The apartment was cute and clean. I had to contact the owner one time for a question and he was quick to respond. I would recommend staying here as I would definitely stay again the next time I visit.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Catherine B., Lethbridge, Canada

Liked: Cleanliness

A great place to stay

We had a wonderful time in San Diego and this place was clean and comfortable for my family of 4. The beds are comfortable, including the pull out sofa bed. The kitchen had everything we needed and the snacks that were left were very much appreciated. It's a great location, walking distance to Balboa Park and grocery stores.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kara R.

Liked: Cleanliness

The "just right" welcome to San Diego

The property was extremely clean and comfortable, in a peaceful neighborhood. During the day there was lots of bright California sun to soak up, inside and out. We picked this spot for it's convenient location near Balboa Park, which I was able to explore all on foot! Timely and helpful responses were given to all of our inquiries from the time we made our reservation, including multiple changes in our itinerary. Overall this was an enjoyable stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023