8/10 Good
Karen L., Anchorage
Mar 18, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great location
Karen L.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025
Entire home
Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis
Vacation home near Balboa Park in San Diego
Choose dates to view prices
Photo gallery for Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis
Reviews
9.69.6 out of 10
Exceptional
Entire home
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 101400 sq ft
Popular amenities
- Pool
- Hot tub
- Kitchen
- Washer
- Dryer
- Pet friendly
Explore the area
San Diego, CA
- San Diego Black Ensemble TheaterPlace, San Diego Black Ensemble Theater7 min walk
- Balboa ParkPlace, Balboa Park3 min drive
- San Diego ZooPlace, San Diego Zoo4 min drive
- San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)Airport, San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)9 min drive
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About the neighborhood
San Diego
University Heights stay.Your stay at this University Heights vacation home places you within 2 miles (3 km) of Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo. San Diego Natural History Museum and Mission Valley Mall are also within 2 miles (3 km).
What's nearby
- San Diego Black Ensemble Theater - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
- Diversionary Theatre - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
- Balboa Park - 3 min drive - 1.7 miles
- San Diego Zoo - 4 min drive - 1.4 miles
- Balboa Park Carousel - 5 min drive - 1.7 miles
Getting around
- Hazard Center Station - 4 min drive
- Old Town Transit Center - 12 min drive
- San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN) - 18 min drive
Restaurants
- McDonald's - 7 min walk
- Pecs Bar - 9 min walk
- Denny's - 9 min walk
- Lestat's on Park - 9 min walk
- TapRoom Beer Company - 2 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.
Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis
Welcome to Mundo Art House in the heart of University Heights! Each room of the house was carefully painted and designed by San Diego Chicano Peruvian artist and muralist Mario Torero, and features over 60 art pieces created over half a century. Renovated in 2024, the kitchen has been updated with new appliances. Cool AC, a shaded patio with pool, outdoor dining and privacy, great for families, pet friendly, private parking, safe walkable neighborhood minutes from all San Diego attractions.
Welcome to an artistic haven in the heart of University Heights, San Diego! This 4-bedroom historical house, owned by renowned artist and muralist Mario Torero, is a true gem, combining charm, comfort, and creativity.
Features:
Spacious Accommodations: Four bedrooms with queen beds and three sleeper sofas ensure ample sleeping arrangements.
- Modern Amenities: Stay cool with air conditioning and connected with fast WiFi.
- Convenience: Enjoy the ease of having a washer and dryer inside the unit.
- Fully Equipped Kitchen: Cook up a storm in the full kitchen, complete with all the essentials.
- Outdoor Oasis: Dive into the swimming pool, relax on the front and back yard patios, BBQ with family and friends, or gather around the fire pit with outdoor furniture.
- Privacy and Safety: The fenced yard and gated off-street parking space provide peace of mind.
- Artistic Ambiance: Marvel at unique artwork throughout the house, including stunning murals by Mario Torero.
- Comfort for All: The home is child and pet friendly, making it perfect for families.
- Entertainment and Work: Unwind with the smart TV or stay productive at the dedicated workspace.
Experience the perfect blend of historical charm, modern amenities, and artistic flair in this unique short-term rental. Located in vibrant University Heights, you'll be close to local cafes, restaurants, the zoo, Balboa Park, Sea World, Gas Lamp, downtown, and cultural hotspots. Book your stay and immerse yourself in a world of creativity and comfort.
Welcome to an artistic haven in the heart of University Heights, San Diego! This 4-bedroom historical house, owned by renowned artist and muralist Mario Torero, is a true gem, combining charm, comfort, and creativity.
Features:
Spacious Accommodations: Four bedrooms with queen beds and three sleeper sofas ensure ample sleeping arrangements.
- Modern Amenities: Stay cool with air conditioning and connected with fast WiFi.
- Convenience: Enjoy the ease of having a washer and dryer inside the unit.
- Fully Equipped Kitchen: Cook up a storm in the full kitchen, complete with all the essentials.
- Outdoor Oasis: Dive into the swimming pool, relax on the front and back yard patios, BBQ with family and friends, or gather around the fire pit with outdoor furniture.
- Privacy and Safety: The fenced yard and gated off-street parking space provide peace of mind.
- Artistic Ambiance: Marvel at unique artwork throughout the house, including stunning murals by Mario Torero.
- Comfort for All: The home is child and pet friendly, making it perfect for families.
- Entertainment and Work: Unwind with the smart TV or stay productive at the dedicated workspace.
Experience the perfect blend of historical charm, modern amenities, and artistic flair in this unique short-term rental. Located in vibrant University Heights, you'll be close to local cafes, restaurants, the zoo, Balboa Park, Sea World, Gas Lamp, downtown, and cultural hotspots. Book your stay and immerse yourself in a world of creativity and comfort.
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Property amenities
Pool/Spa
- Heated pool
- Hot tub
- Private pool
Internet
- Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transportation
- Parking on site
Kitchen
- Coffee/tea maker
- Cookware, dishware, and utensils
- Dishwasher
- Kitchen island
- Microwave
- Oven
- Refrigerator
- Stovetop
- Toaster
Dining
- Dining table
Bedrooms
- 4 bedrooms
- Bedsheets provided
- Sofa bed
Bathroom
- 2 bathrooms
- Hair dryer
- Towels provided
Living spaces
- Dining table
Entertainment
- Games
- Smart TV
Outdoor areas
- Barbecue grill
- Fenced yard
- Garden
- Patio
Laundry
- Laundry facilities
- Washing machine
Work spaces
- Desk
- Office
- Printer
Comfort
- Air conditioning
- Heating
Pets
- Pet friendly
- Welcoming dogs only
- One pet total (up to 50 lbs per pet)
Suitability/Accessibility
- Smoking not allowed
Services and conveniences
- Change of bedsheets (on request)
- Change of towels on request
- Iron/ironing board
Things to do
- Heated pool
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
- At least 80% lighting from LEDs
- Bed sheets changed on request
- Cleaning products are eco-friendly
- Composting
- Comprehensive food waste policy
- Comprehensive recycling policy
- Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
- Garden
- Local artist showcase
- Local culture and ecosystem education
- Locally-owned and organized tours and activities
- Reusable coffee/tea filters
- Towels (changed on request)
- Unit size: 1,400 square feet
- Water-efficient toilets
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21
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
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Rules
No Parties or Events: Parties and events are strictly prohibited. We have a zero-tolerance policy.
Local Reservations: Reservations from guests within their city of residence are not allowed. Please contact us if you are booking within your city.
Pets
- Pets are welcome
- Only dogs are allowed
- Maximum 1 (weight limit: 50 lbs per pet)
- Service animals are exempt from fees
Children and extra beds
- Children are welcome.
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
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
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
- This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.
Property Registration Number STR-10341L, 645432
Property is also known as
2053b85a-38a7-456c-a565-4a0ea4366f90
Frequently asked questions
How close is Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis to the airport?
This vacation home is 5.5 mi (18-min drive) away from the San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.
How much does it cost to stay at Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis?
As of May 11, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis on May 13, 2026 start from $632, 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.
Does Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis have an airport shuttle?
Airport shuttle services are not available at this vacation home.
How close is Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis to the beach?
This vacation home is 7.7 mi (21-min drive) from Coronado Beach and 8.3 mi (22-min drive) from Mission Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!
Does Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis offer free breakfast?
This vacation home does not offer free breakfast.
Is there a casino at Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis?
No, there is no casino at this vacation home.
What time is check-in at Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
Is there free parking at Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis?
Free parking is not available at this vacation home.
Does Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis have a pool?
Yes, there's a private pool.
Does Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis have a spa?
There are no spa services available at this vacation home.
How close is Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis to downtown San Diego?
This vacation home is 2.8 mi away from San Diego.
Whimsical Artist’s Retreat | Heated Pool + Backyard Oasis Reviews
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 3 out of 4 reviews
10 - Excellent
3
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 4 reviews
8 - Good
1
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 4 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 4 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 4 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
10/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Diane C.
Jan 20, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Diane C.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Karen A.
Dec 13, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely stay
Our entire party loved the property. Walking distance to grocery and pub, close to all the San Diego hot spots! The separate bedrooms were great (queen size beds) and we enjoyed the outdoor space during the day (working grill, spacious seating area to enjoy the sun). The kitchen is FULLY stocked, so making a feast was easy. We found something new in the art every day and also enjoyed the selection of art books in the living room. Sarah (our host) was extremely helpful every step of the way. Definitely recommend this property!!!
Karen A.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Arlene G.
Sep 16, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Weekend getaway
Definitely recommend this stay!
Such a beautiful home and roomy! my friends and family had such an amazing time here. Super close to everything & so convenient.
Sarah & Mario were so friendly and welcoming, made sure we were all set up and were super communicative with whatever we needed. We are definitely coming back again! Thank you for having us!
Arlene G.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024