Casa Grotto, 1 Bed Stone Cave Cottage, Panoramic Ocean View, Stone Shower, & Gym

San Marcos, California
$325 avg/night Minimum Stay 1 Nights
Bed 1

Bed

Bath 1

Bath

Home Cottage

Property Type

Sleep 2

Max Sleeps

Night 1 nights

Min Stay

Welcome to Casa Grotto, a one-of-a-kind hillside retreat perched 800 feet above sea level with breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean—from La Jolla all the way to the San Clemente Islands. Nestled on the lush green mountainside above Lake San Marcos, this private stone studio offers a peaceful escape where coastal serenity meets natural design.

Built into the hill using real stone from a 1970s dynamite blast, Casa Grotto is as unique as it gets. Inside, you’ll find organic materials, arched windows, and warm, modern finishes that honor the land it was built on. The space features a queen bed, full kitchen with concrete countertops and filtered water, a private gym, and a truly memorable stone shower—accessed from the bed area and illuminated by natural light from above.

Casa Grotto is perfect for solo travelers or couples seeking a calm, inspiring space to recharge. We’re just 4 miles from Cal State San Marcos—ideal for visiting parents, faculty, or alumni—15 miles from the Escondido wineries, and only 20 minutes from the coast and local beaches. If you're planning a beach day, we’re happy to provide surfboards and beach towels upon request. And don’t be surprised if our two friendly boxers stop by—they supervised the entire remodel and will gladly try to join your stay.

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  • Feature Features
  • Map Map
  • School District Rates & Availability
  • Review Review

Feature Features

  • PETS

    No Pets Allowed
  • BEACH

    Beach Towels
  • SAFETY

    Carbon Monoxide Detector Installed (host Has Indicated There Is A Carbon Monoxide Detector On The Property) Fire Extinguisher Smoke Detector Installed (host Has Indicated There Is A Smoke Detector On The Property)
  • BEDROOM

    1 Bedroom Bed Sheets Provided
  • GENERAL

    Property Does Not Allow Children
  • KITCHEN

    Blender Cookware/dishes/utensils Kitchen Island Microwave Paper Towels Refrigerator Spices Stovetop Toaster
  • LAUNDRY

    Laundry Facilities Washing Machine And Dryer
  • PARKING

    Onsite Parking
  • INTERNET

    Free WiFi
  • OUTDOORS

    Firepit Garden Outdoor Furniture Patio
  • BATHROOMS

    1.5 Bathrooms Hair Dryer Shampoo Shower Soap Toilet Paper Towels Provided
  • THINGS TO DO

    Fitness Center
  • ENTERTAINMENT

    Books Games Smart TV
  • CLIMATE CONTROL

    Air Conditioning Heating
  • SERVICES AND CONVENIENCES

    Iron/ironing Board
  • SUITABILITY/ACCESSIBILITY

    If You Have Requests For Specific Accessibility Needs, Please Contact The Property Using The Information On The Reservation Confirmation Received After Booking. No Elevator (single Level Property) Smoke-free Property Wheelchair-accessible Path Of Travel

CheckIn Check-in : 02:00 PM CheckOut Check-out : 11:00 AM
No Wheelchair No smoking No pets Children allowed
Occupancy Max occupancy : 2

Map Map

School District Rates & Availability

Review Review

  • Brookellyn J.

    Submitted Oct 13, 2025

    Stayed Oct 6, 2025

    This might be one of the best VRBOs I’ve stayed in. I’m not sure what was more stunning…. The views or the unit itself. The dogs were so very sweet and the attention to detail to ensure the stay went well was noticeable. Host was super communicative and attentive. Will be staying here again. BOOK NOW if you’re on the fence!

  • Jessica R.

    Submitted Aug 7, 2025

    Stayed Jul 31, 2025

    This is such a unique property. If you’re looking for a quiet getaway, this is your spot! The views were amazing that little house itself is completely made of stone and absolutely perfect in every way. We didn’t use the outdoor shower, but it was very cute and I will definitely use it next time we come back and we will definitely be back.

  • Bobby B.

    Submitted Jul 7, 2025

    Stayed Jun 30, 2025

    I would rent this property over and over again. My girlfriend and I had the best experience! The property is immaculate and the view is absolutely stunning. The grotto house is first class, and I highly recommend renting it.

  • Kyle H.

    Submitted Jun 24, 2025

    Stayed Jun 22, 2025

    My wife and I had an amazing stay. The hosts did a remarkable job turning the mountainside into a comfortable and homey rental. We enjoyed the visits from their happy doggos. Thanks!

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Total

Includes taxes and fees
$325+
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