If you’re looking for a secluded and serene getaway in Southern California, Palomar Mountain is the perfect destination. Surrounded by miles of lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and pristine crystal-clear lakes, this region is a haven for nature enthusiasts.
While in the area you can hike to the summit of Palomar Mountain, fish for rainbow trout in Doane Pond, or stargaze at the world-famous Palomar Observatory. There’s no shortage of things to do here. If you’re thinking of staying here and experiencing all that the area has to offer, scroll down for our curated list of the best VRBO vacation rentals on Palomar Mountain, California.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 14, 2024.
1. Rustic cabin with spectacular views (from USD 240)
Experience a rustic and charming retreat in the trees with stunning views of San Diego County from the top of Palomar Mountain! The private cabin features three bedrooms, antique décor, comfortable furniture, a fully equipped kitchen, and a large view deck for grilling and sunbathing.
Relax in the sauna or enjoy a cocktail on the dramatic infinity deck while watching the jaw-dropping sunset. Wildlife abounds, with eagles, bobcats, wild turkeys, and deer frequently seen on the property. For a fun afternoon, you can explore nearby hiking trails or the Palomar Observatory.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the place was clean and was a very nice get awayRead more reviewsHost:
charles is an amazing hostchuck was amazing quick responses helpful and full of great suggestions on what to do in the area
2. Palomar Vista Lodge (from USD 570)
Experience luxury on top of Palomar Mountain at the Palomar Vista Lodge. With breathtaking views of San Diego’s skyline and over 8 acres (3.24 hectares) of land, this beautiful estate can accommodate up to 16 guests. This luxurious mountain getaway is perfect for large families or groups.
Enjoy endless entertainment in the recreation room with pool, ping pong, and poker tables and a bar. Venture outside to the massive deck or huddle around the fire pit for a pleasant evening. You can also opt for a soak in the hot tub. Just 2 miles (3.22 kilometres) from the entrance of Palomar Mountain State Park and 3 miles (4.83 kilometres) from Palomar Observatory, the property provides convenience to those who are looking forward to exploring the area.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we had a lovely comfortable staywe had a lovely comfortable staythe rooms were great with 2 masters sized bedrooms with bathroomsRead more reviewsLocation:
michael was excellent and his place/property just as amazing
3. The Lilacs (from USD 99)
Escape to the serenity on top of Palomar Mountain with a stay at The Lilacs: a cosy, restored cabin dating back to the 1920s and surrounded by tall pines.
This unique VRBO rental boasts a master bedroom, a loft bed, and a futon sofa bed in the living room. You can relax in the sunroom or cook up a storm in the fully equipped kitchen. The cabin is full of charm and character with original redwood walls and hand-made cabinets. Located on the peaceful Evergreen Trail, this cabin is perfect for a family retreat or a romantic getaway.
Top guest reviews
Read more reviewsHost:
the owner was so nice and helpfulthe owner was so nice and helpfulkind of wanted to enjoy the fire-pit outside maybe next timekind of wanted to enjoy the fire-pit outside maybe next time
4. Upper Meadow Lodge (from USD 754)
Escape to Upper Meadow Lodge for a serene retreat atop Palomar Mountain. Nestled in 17 acres (6.88 hectares) of private woods, this stunning five-bedroom lodge boasts 3,500 square feet (325.16 square meters) of rustic comfort.
Relax and recharge by the fireplace, gaze at the stars from the outdoor hot tub, and take in the gorgeous wooded views from the spacious deck. You can also hike the nearby trails or simply unwind in the glamorous furnished interior. Perfect for larger families or groups of friends, this lodge is a great place for anyone seeking a peaceful mountain getaway.
Nearby VRBO vacation rentals
5. Cabin Fever (from USD 148)
Escape to the enchanting and vintage Cabin Fever situated near Palomar Mountain. This private forest retreat boasts spectacular views of the stars and the best snow access in the area, making it a winter wonderland.
Immerse yourself in the charm of a mountain-milled cedar log cabin complete with a stone fireplace, cosy leather furniture, and a fully stocked kitchen with modern amenities. You can retreat to the library for a relaxing time or lounge on the deck with a propane barbecue and enjoy a cookout. Venture out to the nearby Observatory or explore the hiking trails in the vicinity.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
lots of scenery to see great view from the deck cozy accommodationskitchen was fully stocked with all amenities beds were comfortablecomfy cabin wonderful deck bbq and fully equipped kitchenthe property was as promised with a phenomenal site huge deck warm rich comfortable décor and amazing viewit was quaint comfortable and had the amenities to make it a great stayCleanliness:
very clean and nicely decoratedvery clean and comfortablequiet clean & unique cabinthis cabin is amazing very clean and very very quitethe property was cozy and cleanRead more reviewsHost:
would recommend to owner a string of red lights for night vision while gazing
6. The Little Red Cabin (from USD 150)
Refresh yourself at The Little Red Cabin, the ultimate mountain retreat near Palomar Mountain. This charming rental is beautifully renovated and boasts upgraded amenities for a pleasant stay in the heart of nature. Relax and rejuvenate on the large back deck while lounging with a cup of coffee in hand. In the evening, snuggle around the wood-burning Pot Belly stove or gather around the propane fire pit and gaze up at the stars.
This secluded property is perfect for sledging and snowboarding during the winter months, and it offers panoramic views of the surrounding meadows and forests.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
comfortable bed that had us sleeping like a babyit's comfortable and has a very large screened deckCleanliness:
the house was clean and very welcomingHost:
met the owner and he was very friendlyRead more reviewsLocation:
our kids had fun exploring the yard and walking along the outdoor big logs
7. El Paraiso (from USD 1115)
Plunge into an extraordinary adventure at El Paraiso, a resort-style VRBO nestled near the serene Palomar Mountain, California. Feast your eyes on the picturesque lazy river, adult pool, wading pool, playground, and mini-golf area on the property. With 6 bedrooms and 10 beds, this vacation rental sleeps up to 16 guests comfortably.
Satisfy your cravings for fun at the nearby winery, golf course, casinos and family-friendly attractions such as Bates Nut Farm and Wild Wonders.
Top guest reviews
Read more reviewsAmenities & Room:
there are enough rooms that a large gathering would feel comfortable to be under one roof
8. Micky's Mansion
Experience a fun adventure with the whole family at Micky’s Mansion, a newly built VRBO rental. Set on 5 acres (2.02 hectares) and offering a hot tub, fire pit, and gas grill, the vacation rental is perfect for groups looking for a relaxing stay.
Start your day with a cup of coffee which you can enjoy on the 36-foot (10.97-meter) deck. You can whip up breakfast in the fully equipped kitchen and spend your day playing golf in the nearby courses or visiting wineries in Temecula Wine Country.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
there is lots of room which was very niceRead more reviewsCleanliness:
the house was very clean and very well stocked
9. Tudor home with ponds (from USD 1128)
Escape the hustle and experience peace and tranquillity at this stunning Tudor home on 40 acres (16.19 hectares) of picturesque land dotted with ponds.
With 5 bedrooms and 21 beds, this VRBO rental can comfortably accommodate up to 22 guests, making it perfect for family reunions. To unwind, gather around the fire pit and have a cookout with the barbecue grill available here. Plus, with easy access to nearby casinos and the majestic Palomar Mountain, you can have the best of both worlds.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
clean spacious and a ideal getaway experience for an entire familyRead more reviewsHost:
thank you to the amazing hosts for your kindness and prompt responsesowners are great responds fast always trying to help when you need helpthank you art & karen for being so accommodating responsive and truly making everything easier for mewhere do i even begin art and karen were the most amazing hostsi hosted a small wedding with 20 guests on this beautiful property
10. Partridge Nest (from USD 250)
Venture to the mountains and stay in the charming Partridge Nest. Nestled under a canopy of cedar, fir, and oak trees, this comfortable cabin offers stunning views from every window. Recently restored, the space is light and airy.
Stroll along one of the many nearby hiking trails or relax on the porch and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. With a pet-friendly policy, the property ensures that you can bring your whole family along on your vacation.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
very clean and lots of little amenitiesRead more reviewsLocation:
super cute place just the right size for the two of us and our two pups
Hit the peak of adventure at Palomar Mountain
Discover the magic of Palomar Mountain, an enchanting place in Southern California. This destination offers a perfect retreat surrounded by beautiful forests and hiking trails. While planning your mountain adventure, make sure to book one of the above best VRBO vacation rentals on and near Palomar Mountain, California, to ensure a comfortable vacation.
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