Perched atop a hill, this magnificent estate offers an exquisite Spanish hacienda elegance with panoramic views of the SoCal landscape. With its year-round temperature-controlled Infinity edge pool & Spa, and plenty of space for large groups, this private oasis is perfect for relaxation and entertainment.
Reviews
1010 out of 10
Exceptional
Entire home
6 bedrooms5 bathroomsSleeps 25372 sq m
Popular amenities
Pool
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free Wi-Fi
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About this property
Zen Hilltop Estate : Heated Infinity Pool, Spa, 360° SoCal Views, Pvt Deck
Welcome to Your Private Zen Resort Retreat
Relax, rejuvenate, & revive at your own hilltop paradise with no nearby neighbors and a private gated driveway. This hacienda offers a year round temp controlled Infinity edge pool & Spa complete with 360° views, outdoor fire-pit, custom tiki hut and a seamless indoor outdoor flow.
Accommodation includes the main house, a charming casita, and an optional Airstream-sleeping 25+ guests in comfort. A perfect blend of seclusion, and resort-level amenities & just 15 min. from Downtown San Diego.
HACIENDA INSPIRED HILLTOP ESCAPE A one-of-a-kind, single-level villa blending modern elegance with authentic Mexican hacienda charm. Perched on over an acre of private land with 360° panoramic views—just 15 minutes from Downtown San Diego. Fragrant notes of Cup of Gold vine and Angel’s Trumpet drift through the air as you explore the grounds, adding to the serene, sensory experience.
The luxurious 50-foot-long residential pool (one of the largest residential pools in San Diego) features a sleek, modern design with a stunning infinity edge that seamlessly blends into the surrounding Socal landscape with 360 degree views. The pool is temperature-controlled for year-round comfort and is set in a secluded area with no nearby neighbors, offering complete privacy and tranquility. Perfect for both relaxation & lap swimming, surrounded by minimalist decking & ambient lighting, the backyard offers a resort-like experience in the comfort of your own home.
YOUR PRIVATE RESORT
- Private, gated entrance lined with swaying palm trees. - The approach sets the tone—peaceful, private, and undeniably grand. - Expansive driveway with parking for 20+ vehicles - Offers a grand, resort-style arrival experience - Framed by panoramic views and dramatic sunsets - The perfect setting for welcoming guests or special events - Spacious enough for family gatherings, small celebrations, or photo ops
CUSTOM BUILT, HISTORIC LUXURY
Custom-built by a prominent San Diego jeweller, the home features adobe bricks made onsite—adding rare character and authenticity to its design.
INFINITY POOL: YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HORIZON AND BEYOND - 50 feet long, 9 feet deep, oversized, newly built, gas & electric dual heated (optional) infinity edge pool. - Expansive L-shaped pool with both deep and shallow ends—perfect for everything from swimming laps to lounging with little ones. - Spacious 8-person elevated jacuzzi with sweeping panoramic views—relax in warm, jetted bliss while soaking in the SoCal sunsets from above the pool deck. - Two built-in in-pool seating areas perfectly positioned to soak in the views while staying cool—ideal for sipping drinks, relaxing, and enjoying the scenery without ever leaving the water. - LED-lit for magical nighttime swims - Waterfall and spa features - Designer loungers and shaded daybeds - Sweeping views of San Diego's skyline, hills & sunsets
Firepit Highlights
- Custom-built boulder firepit set into the hillside - Surrounded by comfortable Adirondack chairs - Positioned for panoramic views of the San Diego skyline - Ideal for sunset lounging, stargazing, or morning stillness - Magical ambiance for storytelling, wine sipping, or quiet reflection - Unobstructed views—no near neighbors in sight, just sky and flame
Tiki Hut Highlights
• Custom-built tiki hut with thatched roof & bamboo railings • Elevated on the hillside for panoramic valley & city views • Soft string lighting creates a magical ambiance at night • Quiet zone perfect for reading, yoga, journaling, or meditation • Framed by vibrant tiki statues and tropical landscaping • A favorite guest hideaway for sunset reflection or morning coffee
Sunset Boardwalk
- Beautifully crafted wooden walkway and boardwalk overlooking San Diego’s rolling hills - Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills, city lights, and unforgettable sunsets - Perfect for photoshoots, sunset strolls, or quiet moments to take in the scenery - An ideal spot for wedding entrances, evening walks, or peaceful reflection
Outdoor Event Deck Highlights
- Beautifully crafted spacious wood deck designed for gatherings and special occasions - Perfect for corporate events, small weddings, quinceañeras, family reunions, and private celebrations - Open layout comfortably accommodates seating, dining, and dancing areas - Surrounded by lush greenery and scenic hillside views for a picture-perfect backdrop - Ideal for both daytime celebrations and evening gatherings under the stars - Available for approved events only- additional event fees may apply. Please enquire
SEAMLESS INDOOR-OUTDOOR LIVING
- Large open-concept great room with panoramic views, over 16 ft vaulted ceilings - Chef’s kitchen flows into dining and lounge areas - Large glass doors open to the expansive 400 sq feet deck - Deck features 2 fire tables, large dining area & ample seating - Indoor & outdoor spaces combine to create one vast alfresco living area - Elegant 10-person dining table for memorable group meals - Plush indoor sofas and cozy outdoor seating for day-to-night comfort - Take in breathtaking 360° views of Southern California sunsets, surrounded by the sweet scents of Angel’s Trumpet and the bold blooms of Gold Cup Vine. - Expansive yet intimate setting, designed for both entertaining and quiet retreat moments
Fully Equipped Chef's Kitchen
- Oversized wraparound granite countertops with panoramic views - Hi-end JennAir 6-burner gas range with griddle - Built-in wall oven & microwave and oversized Sub-Zero-style fridge - Ample storage with attached walk in pantry - Floor-to-ceiling windows with 180° mountain and cityscape views - Crystal pendant lighting for elegant evening ambiance - Fully stocked with cutlery, utensils, plates, mugs, wine glasses and more - High-quality Calphalon cookware, stainless pots, pans & steamer - Full set of chef knives, grater, peelers, and prep tools - Fully automatic espresso maker and French press Blender, toaster, Instapot, mixing bowls, colander, strainers - Dishwasher and double sink with filtered water tap Bar seating for 3 + adjacent 10-person dining table. - Open layout perfect for entertaining or family-style meals
Vintage Airstream “Tara” – A Stylish Sleep Sanctuary (Optional)
- Fully restored 1973 Vintage Airstream Land Yacht Sovereign, a rare and iconic travel trailer known for its yacht inspired design. - Sleeps up to 3 guests comfortably - Air conditioning & space heater - Private deck with string lighting and vibrant tropical decor - Interior features coastal wall murals, lush bedding, and wood flooring - Ideal for overflow guests, teens, or couples seeking privacy
SLEEPING ARRANGEMENT
SLEEPS 25+ COMFORTABLY The estate sleeps 25+ guests with 4+2 bedrooms:
MAIN HOUSE FIRST MASTER BEDROOM - 1 King bed
- 1 Twin bed with 1 Twin trundle
- 1 Sofa sleeper
Total: 4 beds
SECOND BEDROOM
- 1 Queen bed
Total: 1 bed
THIRD BEDROOM (SECOND MASTER)
- 1 King bed
Total: 1 bed
-CASITA
Living area with fully equipped kitchnette (used as 4th bedroom)
- 2 Twin beds
- 2 Twin trundles
- 1 Queen with a Twin bunk
Total: 6 beds
Fifth BEDROOM
- 1 Queen bed - 1 Twin bed
Total: 2 bed
ADDITIONAL SLEEPING OPTIONS 6 Twin rollaway beds & air mattresses (can be placed in any room or common area)
Total: 6 beds
AIRSTREAM CAMPER* (Optional, Available for guest count over 17) (Sixth bedroom)
1 Queen bed
3 Twin bed
Total: 4 beds
TOTAL (All Beds) 24
PRIME LOCATION HIGHLIGHTS
- Outdoor Adventures: Mt. Helix Peak (5 min), Mission Trails/Lake Murray (10 min) - Family Fun: San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, La Jolla (15–25 min) - Entertainment: Gaslamp Quarter, Seaport Village, Sycuan & Jamul Casinos (10–20 min) - Beaches: Ocean Beach, Coronado, Silver Strand (20–25 min) - Convenience: Trader Joe’s, Costco, Walmart, Vons, Target—all within 5 min
FAQs
- Parking? Yes,gated driveway fits 20+ cars
- How many levels is the house ? Single level
- Shared Spaces? None. 100% private
- Check in ? keyless, contactless. Driveway gate operated via smartphone.
-BBQ Grill ? Yes, gas grill with tools provided
- Airstream use ? Augment sleep space if guest count exceeds 17. Contact for further details.
GUEST COUNT & VISITOR POLICY Full and accurate guest count needs to be inputted in the reservation.
Day visitors are welcome with prior notice via chat. A $60/day per visitor resort facility fee applies. Unapproved guests may result in booking termination.
Pool & Spa Heating (Optional) - Year-round heated pool & spa with over 900,000 BTUs of heating power - We use a high-performance commercial heat pump + 2 gas heaters - Pool temperature range: 82–84°F (may vary with adverse weather) - Advance notice (2–3 days) required for heating activation
Pool Heating Fees: - $200/night | $250/night (Nov–Feb) - Capped at $500 total for stays of 3+ nights ($700 Nov–Feb) - Example: 2-night stay = $400 pool heat fee ($500 in winter) - All-or-nothing fee (not prorated)
Spa Heating Fees: - $75/day | $50/day for 3+ night stays - Charged only for days used
SPA USE INSTRUCTIONS - Message us 30 minutes before you'd like to use it- we'll activate the system remotely. Auto shut-off built in. Repeated use in a day is OK
Why These Fees? - Hydro costs in SoCal are exceptionally high & these are pass through charges. - Our pool is one of the largest residential pools in San Diego county. It takes up to 3 days to fully heat this oversized pool
Events- Any gathering beyond overnight booking is an event and requires approval and a separate event fee, over and above the stay cost. Event guests permitted only during the approved event hours, any additional gatherings or visitor meet-ups on other days of the stay must be disclosed in advance and approved separately. Visitor access may be restricted to designated areas only. Event deck is opened only for registered events. Indoors, pool & spa access for visitors limited or prohibited. City noise ordinance enforced
Property amenities
Beach
Beach loungers
Beach towels
Pool/Spa
Heated pool
Hot tub
Outdoor pool
Private pool
Internet
Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transport
Parking on site
Kitchen
Blender
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dishwasher
Electric kettle
Hob
Kitchen island
Kitchenette
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Spices
Toaster
Dining
Dining table
Bedrooms
6 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided
Sofa bed
Bathroom
5 bathrooms
Bathtub
Bathtub or shower
Bidet
Hair dryer
Shampoo
Shower
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided
Living spaces
Dining table
Fireplace
Living room
Entertainment
Smart TV
Outdoor areas
Balcony
Barbecue grill
Fenced yard
Firepit
Outdoor furniture
Laundry
Laundry facilities
Washing machine
Work spaces
Desk
Desk chair
Comfort
Air conditioning
Heating
Pets
No pets allowed
Suitability/Accessibility
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Location highlights
In the mountains
Things to do
Foosball table
Heated pool
Table tennis
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)
An adult aged 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
Detailed list of house rules are mentioned on the listing. Please contact us if you would like any clarifications
Pets
Pets not allowed
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
Note from host: Pool is not fenced. It is guest responsibility
Events
Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
There will be an extra charge for any event.
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 60
Note from host: There will be an extra charge for any event.
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
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
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
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with EU regulations about consumer rights, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.
About the area
Located in Mount Helix, a neighbourhood in El Cajon, this holiday home is in the mountains. Singing Hills Country Club - Willow Glen Course and Steele Canyon Golf Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit San Diego Zoo and The Water Conservation Garden. Travelling with kids? Consider Spanish Village Art Center and San Diego Natural History Museum. Visit our El Cajon travel guide
Does Zen Hilltop Estate : Heated Infinity Pool, Spa, 360° SoCal Views, Pvt Deck have a pool?
Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.
Is Zen Hilltop Estate : Heated Infinity Pool, Spa, 360° SoCal Views, Pvt Deck pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Zen Hilltop Estate : Heated Infinity Pool, Spa, 360° SoCal Views, Pvt Deck?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Zen Hilltop Estate : Heated Infinity Pool, Spa, 360° SoCal Views, Pvt Deck?
Check-in begins at 5:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Zen Hilltop Estate : Heated Infinity Pool, Spa, 360° SoCal Views, Pvt Deck?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Zen Hilltop Estate : Heated Infinity Pool, Spa, 360° SoCal Views, Pvt Deck located?
This family-friendly El Cajon holiday home is located in the mountains, within 2 mi (3 km) of Superior Court East County Division and The Magnolia. Parkway Plaza and Mount Helix Park are also within 3 miles (5 km).
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Zen Hilltop Estate : Heated Infinity Pool, Spa, 360° SoCal Views, Pvt Deck Reviews
Reviews
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers 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.
This property was absolutely stunning!! We had about 20 people stay all together for a bachelorette party and it was so very fun. The views, the rooms, the amenities, the communication with the host - everything was utterly seamless and exactly as pictured. Could not recommend this property or host more!!
We were a group of 6 adults and 1 child under 3 and stayed at the house between Christmas and New Years. Great House! lots of character and plenty of room for our needs. Excellent views, being perched up on top of the hill and the house has plenty of amenities; pool, spa, air hockey, trampoline, etc. You do have to be careful with the little ones and keep an active eye on them, both inside and outside as there are plenty of breakables and a lot of nooks and crannies on the sprawling property. Fun to explore but also not a "kid-proof" property.Small snafu getting into the property, as our app didn't load up right away in order to get the gate open, (might have been user error) but Jessica and Teal team proved to be very responsive and continued to be engaged as needed during our stay.Location was about twenty minutes from downtown San Diego: we visited the Beach, the Zoo and the Safari park during our stay. Safari park was the furthest away at 40 minutes, but everything else was within 20 minutes. Close to stores, etc.Overall, we were very pleased with the house and the service from the Teal Team! We would definitely stay here again. Thanks!
We had a great stay at this house! We had 3 families with a wide range of kids ages and the room possibilities made it easy. The host is friendly and very helpful with all the communication. The house is beautiful and well maintained!
Just a couple of things future renters need to know.
1. There are a ton of extra fees that come with renting this house. Add a guest - fee. Have someone come and visit you during the day - fee. Want to use the hot tub - fee. These are all disclosed in the listing but for our group it did make the stay a little less enjoyable. It was a running joke in the house - "Where do a pay do use the bathroom?"
2. Apparently the neighborhood has a very strict 9PM outdoor curfew. This was a huge disappointment for our group. We have an amazing outdoor area that has really cool lighting and a ton of night time activities that we can't use. I understand that this is the neighborhood rules, but it was a huge bummer for the kids in our group!
Amazing view. We almost lived in the hot tub. Lots of table space to eat as a group. Beds were comfortable. We were a small group but would have fit many more. Very responsive for any needs or requests
The property was even better than we could imagine. From the pool to the fireplace, this stubby house really allowed us to celebrate my wife’s birthday and have a memorable experience.
The house has an incredible view and a pool that makes the stay completely worth it. However the size of the space and the number of true bed spots didn’t completely align with expectations for a large group of 20 grown men. We ended up having to buy more mattresses to sleep in the limited space in the house. Additionally, it’s an inconvenience to have to contact the ownership for use of the hot tub. They were prompt and helpful whenever we sent a message but it asking permission every time got tiresome.
We had a wonderful at this property. The layout was perfect for hangout time. We enjoyed all our meals together on the large dining table. The spa was spacious and hot. The views incredible.
The property management team was responsive, helpful, and accommodating. Our entire group is looking forward to returning in the future.
Amazing! The property (pool, house, spa, games, facilities) as a whole was fantastic, with every amenity and thoughtful touch you could hope for (welcome basket, state of the art espresso maker, dishes and pots and pans and teas and coffee and spices....). It was perfect for 3 generations of our family to hang out in for a week - enough room so we were able to do things together, but also have our own spaces, including an amazing kitchen to prepare our meals. Easy access to downtown and the coast, and grocery stores nearby.
And the Teal team (Jessica in particular) were fantastic hosts. Incredibly responsive to any request, excellent communication at all times, and generally a pleasure to deal with.
Hope to back one day soon!
This is a beautiful home with an incredible view and lots of outdoor activities. It was perfect for our 3 generation family. We could all sit and eat at the dining room table together. The kitchen is huge and was great for preparing meals. The 2 master suites were large and spacious with nice bathrooms. We visited between Christmas and NY. Unfortunately the weather had been horrible the week before and it was pretty cold and rainy the week we were there. We didn't use the outdoor activities at the house like we had hoped because of the weather situation. If it had been nice weather our family would have spent a good portion of our time outside. I wish we had brought some board games as there wasn't much in the way of indoor games to play. The TV got a lot of use. The home is close to the grocery store and several restaurants which was nice. We enjoyed our stay very much but we did have an issue. On the night of NY Eve it rained so hard it flooded the dining area. My son and daughter spent an hour mopping up water while trying to reach anyone to report it to. It took almost an hour for a response and then a very nice repair man came and fixed the issue. (I recognize NY Day is not when you want to answer a call at 7a.m.). The other thing I might mention is that people should recognize that if you stay in the airstream there is no restroom out there. You either need to use the house bathroom or the casita bathroom. Overall a great stay, perfect for large families.
One of the BEST homes we have stayed in. HUGE home, plenty of space, more than enough for the six of us. Beautiful pool, quiet neighborhood and very secluded up on a hill with a great view! Only 15 min from Old Town San Diego,. Hosts we're very attentive. Would definitely stay here again!!!.