Mike’s Place

You need to know something. My partner is the sensei of finding accommodations online. When we travel out of town, I leave the hotels to him because he always gets it right. (Okay, there was that debacle in Las Vegas, but I kind of put my hand in that one and deserve most of the blame). A few years ago, he found Mike’s Place. Well…
Mike’s Place is a gem. It’s nestled in an unassuming neighborhood between Hillcrest and University Heights. As you approach, you might not think much of the location. Then you notice something different. Up and to the right is a lush garden of succulents and behind it, a very cute and well-​maintained craftsman house. You can tell there is something good going on here. The place has the touch of an artist. Literally. Mike’s an artist and he has adorned his place with beautiful plants, pottery, found objects. The guest house is around the back, through the little zen garden and the bubbling fountain. It’s very peaceful. For our weekend getaways, it’s the perfect retreat.
The place itself is akin to a good sized hotel room. There’s a small fridge, a microwave, and a coffee maker. The bed is a foam bed, firmer than a tempurpedic, and very comfortable. There’s a TV by the bed. Aveda products in the bathroom. It’s clean and lovely, and like I said before it has that artistic touch. It’s charming and relaxing.
One more thing: Another benefit of Mike’s is that it is walking distance to many places we like to go. There’s a bridge a block away that takes you to University Ave and Hillcrest. Or we can walk up the hill to University Heights. We usually leave the car parked for most of our weekend and get some exercise. This is a a good thing, since we do enjoy those Bread & Cie cinnamon rolls down on University.

Our retreat from the desert. We have been going to Mike’s Place now for several years. We were there last weekend to celebrate my 50^th.
Mike’s is a charming and comfortable little bungalow cottage tucked between the main house and Mike’s art studio. It is a peaceful, relaxing retreat. The garden’s are amazing and lovingly tended to, and there is a surprise at every turn.
A great location, It’s just a short stroll across the Vermont St. walking bridge to Hillcrest shopping and restaurants. Be sure to check out the Hillcrest Farmer’s Market every Sunday.
The hosts, Mike, Larry and Duane are awesome guys. Attentive and friendly and make sure you are always comfortable. After finding this gem, we wouldn’t think of staying anywhere else. The bed is pure heaven.

When the Mr and I travel to San Diego we will not stay anywhere else but Mike’s. This is one of the best guest houses we’ve ever had the luxury to stay. Ultra romantic and cozy, private entrance, outdoor shower. the amenities are many. Plus Mike and Larry are a couple of the sweetest men you’ve ever met.
Beautiful as it is comfortable, you cant go wrong!