Family Fun & Relaxation Await at Buena Creek Refuge–Your Private Resort Getaway!

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Entire home

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

6 bedrooms4+ bathroomsSleeps 12371.6 sq m

Popular amenities

Dryer
Washer
Fireplace
Kitchen
Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Vista, CA

Twin Oaks Golf Club
‪6 min drive‬
Moonlight Ampitheatre
‪7 min drive‬
California State University San Marcos
‪9 min drive‬
Carlsbad, CA (CLD-McClellan-Palomar)
‪25 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

6 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

1st floor Bedroom Suite - Africa Room

1 King Bed

1st Master

1 King Bed

2nd Master

1 King Bed

3rd Bedroom

2 Single Beds

Garden Cottage

2 Single Beds

Garden Cottage

1 Double Bed

Hawaii

1 King Bed

4 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

1st Master

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Jetted bathtub · Shampoo · Hair dryer

2nd Master

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Africa

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom First Floor

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Hawaii

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Off Pool

Toilet

outside pool

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Office

Balcony

Separate dining area

Outdoor play area

Garden

Dining Area

About this property

Welcome to Buena Creek Refuge, the perfect destination for families to relax, reconnect, and make unforgettable memories together. This private 1.5-acre retreat is tucked behind secure gates and just 100 yards from the nearest neighbor—giving you the peace and privacy you’ve been looking for!

This spacious 4,000 sq. ft. home features 6 beautifully designed bedrooms, a garden cottage with twin trundle beds, and 5.5 bathrooms, offering plenty of room for families of all sizes. With a perfect blend of classic charm and modern luxury, every corner has been thoughtfully designed to make your stay both comfortable and special.

Step outside and discover a backyard paradise built for family fun! Splash around in the heated pool (April–October; optional heating available in cooler months), unwind in the year-round jacuzzi, or relax in the infrared sauna. The outdoor living room—complete with a gas fireplace, fire pit, and BBQ grill—is perfect for cozy family evenings under the stars.

Your family will love the large grassy play area, which includes:

Volleyball
Badminton
Cornhole
Giant Jenga
A putting green
Fun and laughter for all ages!

Inside, the game room keeps the excitement going with:
Ping pong
Foosball
Classic 80s arcade cocktail table (with 60 games including Pac-Man & more!)
Xbox One 1S for gamers in the family

We also provide thoughtful touches for families with little ones, including a Pack 'n Play crib, high chair, kids plates/utensils, kids’ toys, and board games. The Garden Cottage even has a charming kid-sized kitchenette to spark their imagination.

Planning beach days? We’ve got you covered with:
Surfboards
Boogie boards
Beach chairs & toys

Stay connected with Cox High-Speed Internet (300 MBPS) and reliable coverage throughout the home and pool area.

Perfectly Located Near Family Attractions:
20 minutes to San Diego Zoo Safari Park
20 minutes to Legoland
20 minutes to the beach
40 minutes to SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, and Del Mar Racetrack
45 minutes to San Diego International Airport
1 hour to Disneyland

Come experience why families return year after year to Buena Creek Refuge—a place to relax, explore, and grow closer together.

Search “Buena Creek Refuge” for more info, and get ready to make memories that last a lifetime!

Property manager

Mark Stevens

Premier Host

Languages

English, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool

Hot tub

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Free WiFi

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Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 25

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Sound Curfew from 10pm - 7am. No outside noise to respect our neighbors.

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

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

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

About the area

Vista

Located in Vista, this holiday home is in a rural area and in the mountains. While the natural beauty of Flower Fields of Carlsbad and Carlsbad State Beach can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can explore Oceanside Pier. Travelling with kids? Consider LEGOLAND® California and San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

Vista, CA

What's nearby

Twin Oaks Golf Club - 6 min drive - 5.2 km
Moonlight Ampitheatre - 7 min drive - 6.5 km
The Wave Waterpark - 8 min drive - 7.5 km
California State University San Marcos - 9 min drive - 9.0 km
Palomar College - 10 min drive - 9.0 km

Getting around

Carlsbad Village Station - 21 min drive
Carlsbad, CA (CLD-McClellan-Palomar) - 25 min drive

Restaurants

‪Taco Bell - ‬7 min drive
‪Albertaco's Mexican Food - ‬6 min drive
‪Starbucks - ‬6 min drive
‪Los Junior's Mexican Food - ‬5 min drive
‪IHOP - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Family Fun & Relaxation Await at Buena Creek Refuge–Your Private Resort Getaway! have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.

Is Family Fun & Relaxation Await at Buena Creek Refuge–Your Private Resort Getaway! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Family Fun & Relaxation Await at Buena Creek Refuge–Your Private Resort Getaway!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Family Fun & Relaxation Await at Buena Creek Refuge–Your Private Resort Getaway!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Family Fun & Relaxation Await at Buena Creek Refuge–Your Private Resort Getaway! located?

This family-friendly Vista holiday home is located in the mountains, within 3 mi (5 km) of Twin Oaks Golf Club and Palomar College. Alta Vista Gardens and The Wave Waterpark are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Frederick Bryant B.

29 Aug 2024

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

Bella Buena

The Buena Creek Refuge is indeed a beautiful refuge. We felt relaxed the moment we popped out of the cars. Nine of us spent 6 nights celebrating our 50th anniversary and visiting the area attractions. It was wonderful to have the Refuge to come home to rather than some hotel. The 2 grandkids loved the pool and climbing to the gazebo almost as much as Legoland. Great kitchen, indoor and outdoor dining areas and did I mention 5 king beds! Our host was easy to communicate with and I enjoyed all our exchanges. On a scale of 1 to 5, it’s at least a 6!

Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeanette G.

22 Aug 2024

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

Second time staying!

My family and I all stayed here for the second year in a row and couldn’t be more pleased. This is a perfect property for family fun - especially for competitive siblings! There’s ping pong and volleyball and lots of space to lounge.

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeanette G., Reno NV

28 Aug 2023

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

Secluded Family Paradise

Could not have asked for better. Clean, exactly as described, very well taken care of rental home. My family books similar annually and this has been by far the best; the TLC given to this property is apparent and appreciated.

Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Richard S.

29 July 2023

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

Birthday celebration!

Great place to entertain 3 generations, from swimming to badminton! Large property for multiple groups to do many activities at the same time!

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amy S., Vista

19 July 2023

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

Just wow!

I came with my family and some dear friends to celebrate my 50th birthday. This home was absolutely stunning. Clean, beautifully appointed, incredibly stocked kitchen and linens... it really felt like a comfortable home. Mark was honest and accomodating, and I showed up with gifts for my birthday left for me! Such a perfect place for celebration, connection and relaxation. It was a perfect four days. I highly recommend this home, one of the best VRBO experiences I have ever had.

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sherri H., Layton, Utah

28 June 2023

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

Nice relaxing place

House was very nice, clean and roomy. Activities for everyone. We had a great time.

Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mary H.

13 May 2023

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

Beautiful property with great location

Amazing family-friendly property! Great location for a family get together. Mark and Karen were very communicative and accommodating on our week long stay. Everything we needed was readily available. Highly recommend!!

Stayed 7 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jody L.

14 Apr 2023

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

Beautiful property and home

This is an ideal property for a multi-generational family gathering. We enjoyed it thoroughly. There is a wide variety of games available, inside and out, a wonderful heated pool with a hot tub, and even a sauna. The kitchen is well-equipped and the owner was very responsive. Beautiful grounds.

Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

charles k.

2 Apr 2023

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

Wonderful Estate

The house is fantastic! It has a large family room with an open floor plan to the kitchen and eating area. This allowed our whole family to gather and talk. If wanted a quiet time, there are places outside to sit or rest (hammock) and reflect. The host was responsive and very kind. The house is better than the VRBO listing. We had a wonderful family reunion. Everything was perfect from the pool to the game room to the kitchen!

Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Pam R.

1 Mar 2023

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

Great stay in Vista CA

Th property was lovely and well equipped. We did have problems with the internet connection frequently going out. Our host stayed in touch through the week and attended to any minor problems swiftly. I was disappointed with the 5th bedroom. The bed was a trundle and the room didn’t have a closet or dresser. We were a group of 10 adults all over 60. I am sure guests needing a large house will enjoy this terrific property.

Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michelle B.

1 Jan 2023

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

Excellent Stay

The house and grounds were perfect for an extended family Christmas! We couldn’t have asked for anything more.

Stayed 9 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nancy T.

1 Dec 2022

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

Beautiful !!

This was the ideal house for our family trip with grandparents, parents and small children from 3 different states. The house and property are not only beautiful but also very well equipped for playing and cooking. I was even able to make my morning Latte!! Mark & Karen, we can’t thank you enough for all your welcoming considerations. The holiday decorations were a very nice surprise.

Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Rachel V.

1 Aug 2022

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

Where Memories Are Made

For a week, our multi-generational family, was able to call this place our home. When looking for properties, we had some needs that weren't easy to be met - grandparents in their mid-70's with limited mobility plus families with different aged kids. This place fit the bill! Everything that my Father-in-Law needed was located on the main floor, no steps to go up and easily to get around. They were able to stay on the main floor bedroom. The rest of us slept in the bedrooms (and office) upstairs. The bedrooms were large and beautiful, all with a private bathroom. Mark (the property owner) was so friendly and made sure we were comfortable in the house. He was readily available throughout the trip for any questions I had. Okay..now the property. Holy smokes did we fall in love. There are so many areas throughout the property that if you need to get away from everyone for a bit, there is a place for you. We did spend most of our time in the pool/hot tub area and absolutely loved the beautiful landscaping and the privacy. You feel like you're in your own little world. We were able to enjoy the volleyball net in the yard a couple times, while grandparents sat up at the top of the stairs and watched. The decor is top notch inside. It is so beautifully done and looks like it could be out of a magazine. The kitchen was large and we loved cooking in there. The grill-master in the family was impressed with the grill, as some places have a subpar option, but this was not. Location wise - it's really easy to get around. Disney was around 1-1.5 hours away, shopping (Fashion Valley Mall) was around 40 min away, airport around 40 min away, Tamarack beach (Mark suggested) was around 30 min away, Del Mar Racetrack around 30 min away. It was a great location and we felt safe knowing it was a gated area. We made so many great memories on this trip, specifically at the house. I can't recommend if enough. Thank you, Mark and Karen, for allowing us to stay at your house. You guys have an absolute gem! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Paul p.

10 July 2022

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

Great getaway

Exceeded expectations. The inclusion of basic condiments and household supplies was unexpected but very welcome.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl F.

2 July 2022

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

Beautiful home for a large group

Mark’s home was well-stocked and clean. There was plenty of room for our group of 10. The pool and green space were highlights of our stay. Mark was always available via text to answer questions which I appreciated.

Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Annemarie H.

12 Apr 2022

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

Great family getaway!

We thoroughly enjoyed our time at Buena Creek! We had two families with young kids. The outside is heaven for young and old. They have thought of everything you could possibly need. They even had exercise equipment which was a HUGE surprise and bonus. The location was quiet and far enough inland for perfect weather. We will definitely be back. This is a perfect location to unplug, unwind and enjoy family!

Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Elias F.

30 Dec 2021

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

Family Retreat

We were looking for a place where our extended family could be together for the holidays and have something to keep us all entertained. This place was perfect. Like having our own private resort. Clean, perfectly equipped, and luxurious.

Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jon W., Redondo Beach, CA

27 Nov 2021

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

Amazing Week!

We couldn't have asked for more for our Thanksgiving week stay. The house and yard were more amazing than advertised, and the house was better stocked than any house we've ever rented. Mark and Karen were easy to work with, very responsive, and provided great recommendations and directions around the area (although you never really needed to leave). The house was spacious and had everything we needed for our group from an infant to great grandparents. We will be back.

Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

sherry p.

19 Aug 2021

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

This was a family gathering of ten coming together from CA, WA and the Netherlands.

Beautiful, lush, spacious and very secluded-feeling setting for enjoying outdoor games, water activities, reading, visiting, cooking and dining. Lots of shaded outdoor spaces for lounging and dining. Great, very well equipped kitchen accommodating several cooks-in-the-kitchen for shared contributions to lovely dinners for ten. Beautiful home with plenty of attractive and comfortable sleeping spaces for three couples (all kings) and four teens (each requiring a separate bed). Abundant bathrooms, reading spaces, indoor game options and a comfortable dining room that accommodates ten nicely. All agreed, there was nothing else to wish for. A perfect spot for a multi-generational gathering.

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

(OHANA) Jerry P., Colorado

26 July 2021

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

AWESOME!!

Our family ( ages 14-72) spent a week here in July. A great time was had by all. The inside of the house was the cleanest we have ever stayed in and it was stocked beyond compare. Also, beds were extremely comfortable. The outside is fabulous. Beautiful flowers, plants and trees along with butterflies and hummingbirds. The grassy area was great for volleyball, badminton, bocce and croquet. If you want solitude there is a quiet gazebo beside a waterfall. All of my family would highly recommend this house.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Christina K.

7 July 2021

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

Perfect getaway!

Our family enjoyed a wonderful reunion at this beautiful home in a resort-like setting. Communication with Mark from booking through checkout made for a seamless stay. We have rented large homes around the world and this was one of our best overall experiences. The house was well-appointed with so many thoughtful touches. It was very nice not having to make a run out to the store to get basics like soap, shampoo, and paper towel (one of my biggest pet peeves when renting homes is when they only provide a “starter set” of these items.) We especially enjoyed the gorgeous (and warm) pool and hot tub. While not in San Diego proper, we found the location to be perfect for our various activities and ended up spending more time than we anticipated at the house enjoying its amenities. We can’t wait to come back!

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Rodrigo H.

15 June 2021

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

Great experience awesome place

It’s an outstanding place, plenty of spaces, room, games and activities, very well furnished and decorated, plenty of room for eating, several places, big kitchen with all stuff you may need plus fully equipped bathrooms and amenities. It is 11 points over 10 place. The owner gave us references for places, restaurants and tourism, our best for Marc & Karen.

Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Brett M., Oakland, USA

16 Jan 2021

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

Perfect Covid hideaway

Perfect holiday Covid hideaway in the San Diego area. Warm and spacious house with plenty of room for all. Backyard has it all. Pool,hot tub, sauna and ample grassy space with lots of areas to sit and chat + badminton too. The kitchen is very usable to make any meal you would like and you have access to coffee too. The game room was a hit with kids (and grown ups at night) with old school video games, foosball, ping pong and more. Gated community about 20 minutes from the beach, so close enough to get out, but nice and secluded to avoid other humans during this crazy time. Overall a great stay and property and Mark was very communicative the whole time. Making the arrival and departure and stay a memorable and enjoyable experience. Would recommend and stay again. Thanks Mark.

Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Tony W.

14 Sept 2020

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

Hidden Gem Oasis!

The property was just what the doctor ordered during these challenging times with COVID-19 and California wildfires! No detail was spared, plenty of great indoor and outdoor space for a family of five that included two teenage girls (ages 16 & 18) and a 20-year old son. From an indoor recreation room with arcade video games, foosball and ping pong to an expansive outdoor lower area with many lawn games ranging from croquet, corn hole to badminton and more. We didn't use the bicycles, surf boards and boogie boards, but they are there for your use. We used the pool and spa daily, toasted s'mores on the firepit, and used the gas grill to BBQ nightly. The indoor space was equally impressive with wide open areas for socializing yet many spaces around the house to find the occasional quiet time to read a book or make a phone call. Very private oasis with literally no noise from neighbors. With our very busy schedules and often fleeting interests of 16-, 18- and 20-year olds, the family bonding time was priceless. If you need some space and a change of scenery, consider buena creek refuge, you literally do not need to leave the property, just bring groceries for the stay, everything else has been well thought out and is provided for you. Mark and Karen have done wonders with the property and Mark was very attentive to our needs, and was reachable during our entire stay. Thank you Mark and Karen!

Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2020

8/10 Good

audrey s.

16 July 2020

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

Our stay

We had a very nice stay at Mark and Karen’s home. The house was very accommodating and relaxing for the 8 of us. Thank you Mark for being so attentive.

Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2020

About the host

Hosted by Mark Stevens

We live in San Diego and have 4 children and 7 grandkids. We bought this property for our kid's and grandkids to use. We call it "Grandkid Bait," they love spending time with us here and keep coming back for more!

Why they chose this property

Secluded but close to everything.

What makes this property unique

Completely secure refuge location. Mature landscaping and retreat like location. Each bedroom is set-up like a suite and private.

Languages:

English, Spanish

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

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Family Fun & Relaxation Await at Buena Creek Refuge–Your Private Resort Getaway!

Photo gallery for Family Fun & Relaxation Await at Buena Creek Refuge–Your Private Resort Getaway!

Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

6 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

1st floor Bedroom Suite - Africa Room

1st Master

2nd Master

3rd Bedroom

Garden Cottage

Garden Cottage

Hawaii

4 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

1st Master

2nd Master

Africa

Bathroom First Floor

Hawaii

Off Pool

outside pool

Spaces

About this property