Entire home

Rustic Emerald Retreat - Rave Reviews! Shown in HGTV Extreme & Unique Homes!

Photo gallery for Rustic Emerald Retreat - Rave Reviews! Shown in HGTV Extreme & Unique Homes!

A covered outdoor seating area with patterned columns, a central heater, and a hexagonal tiled floor. - Rustic Emerald Retreat - Rave Reviews! 
Shown in HGTV Extreme & Unique Homes!  (San Diego)
A bedroom with a large bed, a bench, a chair, and a view of the outdoors through a wooden door. - Rustic Emerald Retreat - Rave Reviews! 
Shown in HGTV Extreme & Unique Homes!  (San Diego)
Smart TV, fireplace, DVD player, books - Rustic Emerald Retreat - Rave Reviews! 
Shown in HGTV Extreme & Unique Homes!  (San Diego)
A courtyard with a tiled floor, potted plants, and a building with a tiled roof and arches. - Rustic Emerald Retreat - Rave Reviews! 
Shown in HGTV Extreme & Unique Homes!  (San Diego)
A compact kitchen with a central island, wooden cabinets, a stove, and a hanging light fixture. - Rustic Emerald Retreat - Rave Reviews! 
Shown in HGTV Extreme & Unique Homes!  (San Diego)
Immerse yourself in nature at the Rustic Emerald Retreat, a one-of-a-kind home nestled in a secluded canyon near Del Mar and local beaches. Discover an organically-inspired sculpture garden, meditation station, hot Jacuzzi, custom palapa with ceiling fan and barbecue for year-round enjoyment.

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8135 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi

Add dates for prices

About this property

Rustic Emerald Retreat - Rave Reviews! Shown in HGTV Extreme & Unique Homes!

  • James Hubbell is a local artist who is renowned for his organically and nature, inspired sculpture, Stainglass and architecture. He built this home in the mid 80s and is a true delight, and a wonderful place wherever you look. This is one of a kind home situated in a secluded Canyon close to Del Mar and Local beaches, the location is a peaceful oasis surrounded by mature trees. The second bedroom is upstairs, up a set of outdoor stairs. The bathroom is downstairs. Enjoy our meditation station, hot Jacuzzi, custom palapa with ceiling fan and barbecue for your enjoyment year-round!
    We are pet friendly, but please pick up after your pets hair and poo $50 per pet ( 2 max).
    Please enjoy our Rave Reviews, cool house, quiet home, everything you need to rest, truly memorable, San Diego’s lovely weather, comfortable, outdoor/indoor living spaces, Karen is a great hostess, this is like stepping back in time! This home is unique, read details! No EVENTS, Parties or gatherings EVER.
    When you arrive at our unique property will park in the driveway, free, laundry, and laundry soap is available for your use. Our kitchen is fully equipped.
    When you arrive, there will be three steps going up to the primary suite bedroom number 1, and living room, three steps leading down into the living area, there are several steps going up the outdoor staircase, leading to the bedroom and veranda upstairs “Tree house feeling “ 1- queen 1 trundle = 2 twin beds. Primary suite 1 King bed. The windows have no window coverings, we’re in a secluded area surrounded by mature trees.
    Enjoy our outdoor living areas that consist of a handcarved outdoor pergola, made in Bali, and a meditation station up by the Jacuzzi for yoga and meditation and relaxation. EXPLORE OUR WONDERFUL AREA: Del Mar is only 20 minutes from the San Diego airport, 15 minutes from La Jolla. It is a great location off the five freeway and Carmel Valley Rd. close to Beach, Torry Pines State Beach, great surfing, great restaurants, golf, local hikes, and more.
    Grab organic food at Jimbos or Whole Foods, Vons is close by. ENJOY Legoland, Seaworld, SD Zoo, Safari park, BEST BEACHES, surf lessons, fishing, Del Mar Race Track (Check dates from Race Season) summer & fall the ponies run! Try some of San Diego’s fine dining by the beach! Monarch Ocean view club, Poseiden , Jake’s, George’s at The Cove, Las Olas, chart, house, Pacific Coast, Grill, Brigantine, and much more. I have named the rustic emerald retreat because the home was built in the 80s, it’s unique with organic vibe and round walls, amazing curves everywhere. It’s true experience. Enjoy! Stay in a Work of Art — A James Hubbell Artist Home in Del Mar

    Experience something truly extraordinary—a rare opportunity to stay in an artist-designed home by renowned Southern California artist and architectural designer James Hubbell, just minutes from the beautiful beaches and coastal lifestyle of Del Mar.

    This is not an ordinary vacation rental. The home itself is part of the experience.

    Celebrated for its extreme uniqueness and artistic character, this remarkable property has been featured by HGTV and Sunset Magazine. Throughout the home, Hubbell’s signature organic architecture brings art and nature together through sculptural forms, handcrafted details, beautiful curves, artistic windows and unexpected architectural elements.

    One of the most captivating features is the home’s relationship with nature. Windows frame the surrounding landscape like living pieces of art, filling the rooms with natural California light and bringing the outdoors inside. Many windows intentionally have no window coverings, allowing you to wake to the trees, gardens and changing light of the day. This openness is an important part of the home’s original artistic design and
    The magic continues outside, where fabulous outdoor areas invite you to slow down and enjoy Southern California living. Sip your morning coffee surrounded by nature, relax with a book in the afternoon, enjoy cocktails as the sun begins to set, or gather with friends and family for a beautiful evening under the California sky.

    Every corner of the property offers something interesting to discover. The architecture feels organic rather than manufactured, with spaces that flow naturally into one another and into the surrounding landscape.

    The Best of Del Mar & San Diego

    As unique as the home is, the Del Mar location makes your stay even more special. The Pacific Ocean, gorgeous beaches, excellent restaurants, shopping and the famous Del Mar Racetrack are all nearby.

    The property also provides a wonderful home base for exploring San Diego. Visit La Jolla and its spectacular coastline, hike Torrey Pines, explore Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo, spend an afternoon in Little Italy, visit Coronado, enjoy boating on San Diego Bay, or simply spend your days relaxing on the beach.

    After exploring, return to the peace and beauty of your own artistic sanctuary.

    A Vacation You’ll Remember

    This home is especially suited to guests who appreciate art, architecture, nature and one-of-a-kind experiences. It isn’t a cookie-cutter luxury rental, and that’s precisely what makes it so special.

    Take time to enjoy the house itself. Have breakfast outdoors. Wander through the gardens. Notice how the sunlight changes the rooms throughout the day. Pour a glass of wine in the evening and enjoy the serenity of this remarkable setting.

    For travelers looking for more than simply a beautiful place to sleep, this is a rare opportunity to experience Del Mar from inside a genuine work of art.

    Come for the beaches, sunshine and excitement of San Diego—and stay for the unforgettable experience of living in a James Hubbell artist home.

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Pool/Spa

  • Hot tub

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total (up to 50 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a zoo
  • Near the marina

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Theme park nearby
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Winery tours 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)

General

  • Local artist showcase
  • Recycling
  • Some LED lighting used
  • Unit size: 1,450 square feet
  • Water-efficient toilets

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

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

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

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

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load the dishwasher
Remove personal items and remove leftover food and drinks
Turn off the lights, lock the doors, and return the keys
We hope you enjoyed your vacation here at the Rustic Emerald Retreat. If you could please just clean your dishes and put them in the dishwasher. We will do the rest! Safe travels home.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Pets

Pets allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
2 total (up to 50 lbs per pet)

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
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
Property Registration Number STR-01796L, 004567

About the neighborhood

Located in Carmel Valley, a neighborhood in San Diego, this vacation home is near theme parks and near a water park. Westfield UTC and Fashion Valley Mall are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Mission Bay and Mission Beach. Check out an event or a game at Snapdragon Stadium, and consider making time for Del Mar Fairgrounds, a top attraction not to be missed. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails and cycling nearby. Visit our San Diego travel guide
View more Vacation Homes in San Diego
Map
San Diego, CA

What's nearby

  • A canyon with rocky cliffs and sparse vegetation.
    Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
    2 min drive - 1.2 km
  • A Ferris wheel, carnival rides, and a crowd at an amusement park.
    Del Mar Fairgrounds
    9 min drive - 9.3 km
  • A coastal landscape with a sandy beach, cliffs, and wildflowers.
    Del Mar Beach
    11 min drive - 8.6 km
  • Los Penasquitos Marsh Nature Preserve
    2 min drive - 1.2 km
  • Del Mar Racetrack
    10 min drive - 9.7 km

Getting around

  • Sorrento Valley Station
    6 min drive
  • San Diego Coaster Sorrento Valley Station
    7 min drive
  • San Diego, CA (MYF-Montgomery Field)
    22 min drive

Restaurants

  • Taco Bell
    2 min drive
  • Bird Rock Coffee Roasters
    4 min drive
  • Chipotle Mexican Grill
    3 min drive
  • Urbana Mexican Gastronomy
    4 min drive
  • Roberto's Mexican Food
    4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Rustic Emerald Retreat - Rave Reviews! Shown in HGTV Extreme & Unique Homes! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 50 lbs per pet.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Rustic Emerald Retreat - Rave Reviews! Shown in HGTV Extreme & Unique Homes! ?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Rustic Emerald Retreat - Rave Reviews! Shown in HGTV Extreme & Unique Homes! ?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Rustic Emerald Retreat - Rave Reviews! Shown in HGTV Extreme & Unique Homes! located?

Located in Carmel Valley, this vacation home is 1.7 mi (2.7 km) from Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and within 6 mi (10 km) of University of California, San Diego and Torrey Pines State Beach. Del Mar Plaza and Seagrove Park are also within 6 mi (10 km).

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Rustic Emerald Retreat - Rave Reviews! Shown in HGTV Extreme & Unique Homes! Reviews

Reviews

Excellent

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. 7 out of 10 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 10 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 10 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 10 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 10 reviews

8.8

Cleanliness

9.4

Location

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Cindy P.

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

Wow! This place is stunning.

Impressive, beautiful place. We felt lucky to stay here. The architect who built this had such an incredible and unique vision. Everything you need is here and the outside area is so beautiful. We’re looking forward to a return trip to stay here.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

David A.

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

Thanksgiving stay

Very unique and artsy home. Hosted a family style thanksgiving dinner outside under the palapa covered patio
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jared B.

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

Outstanding and unique retreat in San Diego

Our family including an 16, 11, and 8 year old had the absolute best time staying here. There was always something new to see, so many great places to sit, read, drink coffee, and play games. The location is fairly central to many fun spots and beaches to visit. Everyone agreed we would stay here again!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jeremiah D.

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

Fantastic Family Vacation

Our family had a terrific stay at this truly unique venue. We had fun researching the artist who built the home and his legacy. The property is very quiet and peaceful even though it's not far from major thoroughfares. Roughly a 10-15 minute drive to a few different beaches (Del Mar & Torrey Pines). Easy access to groceries and pharmacy. Close proximity to great restaurants. The property has multiple outdoor spaces which is very nice. Host was responsive and pleasant. We would stay here again.
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Robert S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A truly unique and beautiful property. Quiet neighborhood, well stocked with kitchen appliances/utensils, spacious and comfortable outdoor seating, and easy access to all points San Diego.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kristy H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing, indoor/outdoor living!! Perfect oasis for our family as we celebrated our son’s graduation from UCSD. Host was responsive and provided some food recommendations. We LOVED it.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Cindy P.

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

One of a kind house

We love staying at rustic emerald retreat. It has everything you need for a pleasant stay. Plus, there is the unique architecture of the buildings which are so beautiful. Thank you, Karen for hosting us.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
Verified review

2/10 Terrible

Sue W.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location
Disliked: Cleanliness
yes, however, a giant leak under the sink on the last day nearly flooded everything. Also, this is not a property for the elderly or infirm, as there are no safety railings on multiple steps, and the shower in the master BR is a deep 3-step cavern with nothing to hold on to. The way in is uphill with baggage. The Hot tub is on a dias with no railing and broken pavement. The doors and windows shrank over the years and were not repaired, and you can see outside thru most of them; they cause cold, wetness, and drafts. Poorly lit home altogether. TV in BR is video-only, and no videos are available there; TV in LR is difficult to operate for Senior citizens unaccompanied by tech. The BBQ is not heating. Sofas and cushions are in the weather all the time and as a result are not clean. Upon arrival, there was a giant spider in my bed. Linens had a stale odor. Later discovered that the Washing Machine and Dryer were in an outside shed, very dirty. Towels had been hung up to dry, which is why they were so scratchy. Or were they never washed at all and just hung up? All in all, left two days early, a waste of money. Had we wanted a broken-down art palace, we could have gone to a museum. Pictures were very deceiving.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025