Secret Garden Inn

We stayed at this place during memorial day weekend for four nights, paid avg 259/night about 1200 total. First the good, the property is located at a higly walkable area with restaurants, parks, shops etc. One of the few places that had free parking and breakfast included. The bad, the rooms have eclectic decoration style, however the layout is very inconvenient for a multi night stay. The bathtub is inside the bedroom with a shower curtain separating the sleeping area and the shower. The ugly, the hotel did put any effort in cleaning the room before we reached the property. The bathtub and the sink had moldy stains, the entry way had spiders and cobwebs, the balcony was dusty with dried leaves piled up. The worst of all the balcony curtains had red stains and moldy smell. The hotel didn't have onsite reception, we called housekeeping the next day after check-in for fresh curtains and bedsheets. Though we loved delmar we will opt for other places to stay next time for the rent we paid.

I chanced across Secret Garden Inn while looking on Apple Maps for a nice place for my family and I to spend the night since they were driving in from OC. We had initially only intended to stay the one night but my parents loved the penthouse suite so much we extended our stay another night (if we weren't all working on Monday, it may have been a longer stay haha). The rooms are so tastefully decorated, cozy, artistic, eclectic vibes. For anyone who watches kdramas, this is like the rooftop apartment the female lead would live in. I would rate the rooms technically a 4.5, it got pretty warm in the bedroom at night and the AC was pretty old and didn't work well. The Peruvian restaurant, Coya, that it's behind is also phenomenal, we got breakfast from there both days as well as dinner one night. Overall, the perfect place to spend a little staycation. My family and I are definitely planning on returning.

The breakfast is Peruvian, the courtyard feels Spanish, the eclectic artwork - Bali, the carved wood alcove - India, the balcony - Paris, the view - Portugal! This quirky, boutique hotel is not for everyone, it is a bit half baked, but we loved it. If feels like an eclectic uncle gave you the keys to his place, then left you to enjoy on your own. No onsite staff, but a cell number and housekeeping are provided. There are just a few rooms off a courtyard behind a restaurant of the same name. The included breakfast is provided by the restaurant but they are not affiliated with the hotel. The food at the restaurant is great! The bed is comfortable, the balcony is lovely. The bathroom amenities are quirky and spread around the room in a more open than sheltered way.

I’ve stayed here many times and it is always wonderful. Ran by great people, that do a great job. whenever I visit Del Mar this is where I always stay. I Look forward to my next stay. thank you.

I would rate this hotel 5 stars, but I don't want to give the impression it is a luxury property. It is small and quirky, and if you like that sort of thing, you will love it. The room was adorable, the location almost ideal--one block from the beach and with a partial view. You can hear the ocean at night and the beds are excellent in every way. A major bonus is the superb restaurant on site. The special Peruvian style food, especially the french toast, is unique and outstanding. |If you visit this place, you will feel like you have really been somewhere--not experiencing the same thing you can do anywhere over and over.

After checking in at the nearby Les Artistes Inn, the renovated parent inn, Secret Garden Inn is a short, two block trip north. Management on staff were friendly and welcoming, and gave me a nice history of their two properties as well as easy to follow directions from one property to the next. A dedicated entrance in the rear of the building offers parking and room access while avoiding the street access through the Secret Cafe. The style and architecture is Asian/Thai inspired and is a real treat. My room, Lotus, was clean and neat as were the supplied towels, robe and slippers. Bathing area offered a good sized tub as well as shower, and the water was hot and had great pressure. ||The ocean-view was a stretch. Like another reviewer stated, I could just barely see the water from my balcony over the tops of the actual beach-front properties and lots. Honestly, this should not be a marketable feature. ||All rooms shared a 'wet bar' area which was pretty sub-standard. Bottled water was provided in the mini-fridge.||Breakfast was included and was provided in the attached Secret Cafe, a short walk up the stairs from the rooms to the main street level. Breakfast was a choice of one either sweet or savory regular breakfast menu item, with juice/coffee. The Peruvian restaurant served Peruvian coffee, arguably one of the top 5 best coffees I've ever had, anywhere. Menu items were equally inspired and authentic. ||The location makes for easy walking to many stores and restaurants in Del Mar, as well as the beach. I would recommend Secret Garden Inn for solo travelers, or couples, but don't think there is much to offer for families with kids.

We loved it. The food in cafe secret is incredible. We didn't reserve a table and so we asked if they could serve us on the patio outside our room and they were happy to do so. It ended up being the perfect place to eat, private and we could linger. Breakfast which is included was as good as dinner. I definitely will come back. A peaceful and romantic getaway.

Very cozy little place nestled in the back streets of uptown Del Mar. Great for something akin to air bnb with its own little touch. Low profile place that I somehow living a half mile away from it for a couple years and riding past on my bike never even noticed it. The inn keeper as you start the adventure of checking in was an extremely kind woman who was a pleasure to chat with and let me know all the details about the food and restaurant details when I got there and was extremely easy to work with while checking in. Ocean view is as advertised and the “nice cream” ice cream store on the same block made for a great snack at night. It’s like a Mexican restaurant meets a castle meets a European style boutique room (in the most complimentary way possible). Worth mentioning it is literally below a restaurant so you do hear some of that activity but if you’re a person who likes to feel like things are going on around you and your expectations aren’t unreasonable I think you’ll enjoy it.

Loved this place! Stayed in the two-bedroom suite upstairs while recovering from surgery. It's the perfect place for peace, privacy, and tranquility. The views and gentle sounds of the ocean made resting easy. The included breakfast was fabulous (both delicious and healthy) as well. I'd love to stay here again. Beds were super comfortable and everything was clean. And the decor? Loved it!!! Absolutely delightful experience in every way.

ZERO Stars! Did not even make a reservation! Called as a courtesy to inform (not request) that I will be traveling with a service dog and was told... "I prefer you stay at our pet friendly sister property, does that work?", when I chose this property specifically. Then I was told that, "this is not a pet friendly hotel, no ESA, only service animals..." I stated that I am aware of the ADA definitions and it's unfortunate that you have to treat the conversation in this manner and discourage travelers... " you have to fill out a form, are you okay with that?". I couldn't continue the conversation politely and bid him a good day. I called back to get his contact information and stated I needed to make a complaint to the ADA. Unfortunate, at least I didn't ruin a stay there.

Nice place in Del Mar. get the penthouse suite with the ocean views and spa and fireplace on your own patio! Check out some pics I left of this place. You will love it for sure!

So, since I tried finding a hotel the night before our trip, I was left with nothing but $300+ per night choices, if I wanted a decent hotel. There were some $125s but for the following week. Kept looking and came upon this hotel. Read the reviews, looked at pics and thought I'd take a chance for the deal they were running for $200. Wasn't disappointed at all. At first when we drove up, I was like "uh oh", but that soon went away. It's a cute and unique styled inn with a cozy feel. Room was so cute with the art, moldings, wall coverings, wood floor and cabinetry, decorative tiles, day bed, jacuzzi tub/shower, vanity area, etc. It's a small space but just fine for two. COZY! Nice balcony and the partial view of the ocean is truly a partial view. Hey, you can see it. lol. It's not on the beach but we took a one block walk to the walking path that was along the cliffs overlooking the ocean. We're not hard to please...at times. The room was very clean and the bed VERY comfortable. I think those were some of the softest sheets I've ever felt, even softer than some high-end hotels. Was told that there is a 2 bedroom suite on on the top level where the ocean view is larger. I'd like to try that that room next time. Another plus is the connecting Peruvian restaurant where we had our dinner. Good food. Hotel is just a 2 minute drive to the beach. :) Suggestions: Be sure to dust the shelves where the art pieces are. Saw a few cobwebs. Find a better painter. Although I loved the turquoise wall treatment in the sink area, the painter left some drops on your copper sink. Although not so noticeable, there are some areas where the plaster needs to be replaced. Free breakfast was advertised and a menu left in our room AND the menu said breakfast began at 8am. Well the restaurant, per the locked door (smile) and the recording on their machine, doesn't open until 11am. Overall, we enjoyed our stay and will return to this unique, adorable and almost storybook like inn.

Very good location and in-house Peruvian restaurant. Our host, John, was very welcoming and friendly; he knows the area very well so ask away with him. The check in process was fast and smooth. Plenty of parking right below your room. The Inn has only 5 rooms, 5 very quaint rooms with balconies. We'll stay here again and again.

This is my all time favorite getaway, plenty to do, walking, cycling, beaching it, and plenty of surf for all. The Lotus room is my favorite of all, although I have stayed in the other two. I haven't stayed in the upstairs suites yet... I love that a nice selection of breakfast is available if I feel like being good or naughty. It's a serene place for any occasion especially a just because one. There is also yoga at Inhale up the street and yummy dinner at Zel's.

I went to the grand opening of this place this past Thursday and I just have to say WOW!!!! The food was delicious. Especially the mini stuffed artichokes. I'm still thinking about them. Also the ravioli, the shrimp pasta and my favorite offering the ham croissant. Everything was fantastic including the wine. But really makes this place stand out is the courtyard. I want to stay here just to have breakfast in the courtyard. It's for lack of a better word, quaint. Very charming ambiance. Kind of makes you feel like you are at an Inn in another country. There are 5 bedrooms total and all as cute as the next. But the penthouse, which accounts for two of the bedrooms is something else. The view from the spacious balcony is breathtaking. Ocean view and there is a fireplace for when the winter nights get chilly. I would highly recommend staying here. You won't be disappointed.

Sweet little inn in the heart of Del Mar. This definitely isn't your standard inn. We had to check in at the sister inn on the main road and we were escorted to this property. The room was definitely unique but well thought out. We enjoyed staying here and will visit again!

ZERO STARS IF I COULD!! TERRIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE!!! I stayed in their most expensive room and received a noise complaint for 5 people laughing and eating a late night pizza on the room's deck after a fun day at the races. One of their employees decided to literally walk into my room!!!! He literally walked in and I turned around and he was standing in my room scolding us!!! I complained the next morning during checkout and the individual did not deny entering my room without my knowledge or permission and proceeded to argue with me on speaker phone and tell me to just leave. I have neverrrr had such a terrible, unprofessional experience in my entire life! DO NOT STAY HERE!

When we first came in last night, I wasn't sure what I thought. I realize now I was just so exhausted I couldn't process everything. Here we are in this magical room! Whoever designed this little gem of an inn did so with incredible love and artistic talent. Everywhere I look, there is something beautiful to see. There are only four rooms here, and it is tucked behind a little cafe. The attention to detail is amazing. All balconies face the ocean, and our door opens onto a tiny, Mediterranean courtyard that leads to the cafe. We both had veggie omelettes with fresh fruit and piping hot croissants for breakfast. Delicious and included in the price. The staff is lovely. Just so you know, you check in at the "Les Artistes" down the street, and then the owner brings you over here. Highly recommend!

Stayed in the penthouse and it was AMAZING! Two bed/2 bath huge balcony w fireplace and hot tub, wood burning stove inside, kitchen, breakfast included (delicious), staff was great, owner kinda Rocks! The beds were sooooo comfy and lots of pillows. They have thought of everything and if they didn't then I just had to pick up the phone! I felt like it was back in Indonesia (I can't use Thailand as a reference cause I've never been) with the decor. I didn't want to leave!

The Secret Garden is a hidden gem. Especially the penthouse suite. Balcony with lots of room, wood burning fireplace, ocean view and spa. Excellent restaurant downstairs. Located right in the heart of town but nestled in a secluded space.

Stayed in the Penthouse Suite for our 25th Anniversary. Totally worth the splurge! As others have said, this place has lots of arty charm. If you want a cookie-cutter, sterile environment, go to the Hilton - if you want something unique, something special, something you'll remember, stay here. Great service, ocean view, excellent breakfast, convenient parking - what's not to love?

When we arrived at check in n they couldn't find the room key. Then they handed us a random key and said "this should work if it doesn't call us". We had to drive to check in at a separate hotel (which was no big deal) so we left and drove to our hotel. The room key did not work. So we called the front desk.... three times. No one answered any of the calls. My husband drove back to where we checked in and returned with a handful of keys. None of them worked. At this point they gave us a different room. Keep in mind there is no staff on duty at the actual location no one answers the phones at the place where you check in so if you have a problem you are out of luck unless you drive over to the other location. I had read a review about this place and the person had complained about the kitchen noise at night.I disregarded it because I thought "what are the chances we will get the room by the kitchen". Well, all the rooms are basically by the kitchen of the cafe because it is a very small place and THe cafe is inside the hotel. If you are hoping to peacefully relax then don't stay here. You will hear constant loud clanging and banging from the dishes being tossed into the sinks until 10:30or 11 at night and the management doesn't care to fix the issue or care at all(we talked to them in the morning about the problem and the response was a blank stare and a short "sorry"). The inside of the room was clean and very cute. We enjoyed they creative vibe it has. It was a plus that breakfast at the cafe was included! It was delicious and the service was great.

Life doesn't get better than this! The penthouse suite was elegant, yet comfortable; a retreat and treat to stay here. The food in the adjoining cafe is amazing and a full breakfast is complimentary. The gorgeous room, view, and ideal location, gave me inspiration and relaxation!

I kind of don't want people to know how wonderful this place is. I want it to stay a secret! We stayed in the penthouse and the sunset view over the ocean was magnificent. Very private. Very clean. And very interesting room design. The memory foam bed is very comfortable. The linens are super soft. I stay in luxury hotels a lot and this is a welcome change from the usual boring decor. Also you have to try the Peruvian restaurant in front of it!

Wow! This Inn is a secret gem in Del Mar! The owners clearly have put in a lot of effort into creating such a beautiful, special place. From all the small details to the delicious hot breakfasts to the friendliness of all the employees, this is a special place. It is so cozy and inviting, it was hard to go back home. The bed was great, the balcony view was perfect and the fact that you can walk a few minutes and you're at the beach was great. I accidentally left an item in my room, and John was kind enough to ship it back to me; he truly went above and beyond to create a fantastic impression. The Secret Garden Inn blew me away and I am so happy to have discovered it. I encourage everyone to experience this magical place, I cannot wait to stay here again!

We first made our reservation to Les Artistes Inn...which a friend highly recommended to us for a little getaway, and since we just got married and waiting to honeymoon until spring, we decided this would be a great spot for us. When we arrived, we were greeted by Solana, the owner and her two very charming dogs! The place was adorable and completely our style, as we're not Ritz kind of people. We told her we were just married and she instantly upgraded our room to The Secret Garden Inn down the block. We got the choice of which room we wanted, we chose the Japanese room. Totally charming! The room is absolutely artistically well done, the decor is specific and sweet. A little fire stove, a nice tub, robes, jade statues, and buddha decorations, a terrific porch/balcony and a view of the ocean! Not being a Ritz person, bedding is still very important to me, and the bed in this room was awesome! The sheets were so so soft, the throws and blankets were silky. And to boot, we get breakfast at the cafe in front and it's delicious! We're so grateful for our stay here, we will be back, and we do recommend this place to everyone!

My boyfriend and I were looking to book the Penthouse room but I had a couple questions before doing so. I called to ask these questions and when he answered the phone he didn't sound too happy (which is not a big deal) but when I continued to ask the questions I was laughed at and it made me feel like I shouldn't be asking? These were very simple questions and I would think if someone is inquiring information about your most expensive room you would have good customer service. I saw the reviews about the problems with customer service and thought maybe those were just off days but I don't think that is the case. My boyfriend and I will definitely be staying somewhere else. The look of the hotel is very deceiving for the way you are treated. This was the first time we had contacted the hotel and it was the last time.

The Secret Garden Inn and Les Artistes Inn are sister properties owned and managed by the same management. First I will say that having both properties within walking distance and of unique decor is wise and although we didn't choose either for a wedding, we would have chosen these two hotels to buyout for a weekend if we were getting married in the area. First I will report on my customer service interactions with this business before reviewing my thoughts on the property. Upon first contact to inquire about the quantity of rooms, cost and possibilities for hosting a small wedding at either of the Inns, mostly considering for a buyout (if they had sufficient rooms, something I was trying to ascertain existed in the contact), the response was vague and only slightly helpful. It was hard to figure just how many people could be staying in the Inns at full capacity and how many would be in beds and how many sleeping on pull out couches. I wanted to make an informed decision for my guests and had to inquire a second time about making a tour appointment to see both properties and see if they do allow small private events there since both inquiries were not addressed the first time. That was sent over 2 months ago and I have not heard back from them since. They just went MIA completely. It's just rude, frankly. When you do that a prospective guest, especially one who is intending on a huge purchase from your business (by huge I mean 2 nights, possibly up to several, every room, both hotels during possible a peak season), initially are somewhat helpful then purpose ignore an actual face to face, it just seems like it might be too good to be true and that maybe I am dodging a bullet here. This property is small, but extremely beautiful with beautiful architectural features. Its really a Secret Garden in there. Its a shame their customer service level is so sub-par. I'd expect this from a Motel 6 for crying out loud, and if they found I was a prostitute or something. I don't know, maybe if they redeem themselves and come back to life I may reconsider if it's not too late. There are other bed and breakfasts in the area, ya know....Maybe not as cute or as unique these two properties, but I always with function comes form, something could look awesome but not last long.

Day 11 hwy1 bicycle tour: We biked out of Carlsbad toward SD. This place looks cute enough so we decided to stop by for a quick breakfast bite. Its too bad that the food is bad. Though I wanted to like this place. The people are really nice and friendly. I got the blueberry pancakes, they were very cute, small pancakes with some blueberry jam in the middle. The pancakes were too hard and way too many powdered sugar on top. I know they try to be organic and use cornmeal for the batch... but I've made cornmeal pancakes before and they were not hard and stiff. My friend got the oatmeal, it was kind of gross. It had so much sugar and syrup and honey all over it... it tasted like a bowl of sugar. Not healthy at all. I don't even remember what my other friend got. This place is cute with its courtyard but the food needs a lot of improvement. PS: the croissant was bad too, tasted like store bought. Not flaky and soft at all.

We recently stayed at Secret Garden Inn for an evening and enjoyed its unique, quaint atmosphere. The rooms are fantastic, and the location is perfect. The staff was helpful and accommodating. Would recommend to friends, and will definitely stay again on our next trip to Del Mar.

My husband and I stayed here in the Lotus Room on our wedding night 1/1/11. We are a young, late 20's couple who enjoy small, intimate, elegant artsy hotels. This was just that!! The owner allowed us to tentatively book our room over a month ahead of time so we were assured a room for our wedding night. This was the first sign of absolute courtesy we received. Upon arrival, our fireplace was going so the room was super cozy...a major plus!!! The bed and entire room was pristine and clean. We spent hours just looking at the art and details of this beautiful room. We had a partial view of the ocean from our private balcony which was so amazing. The room and entire hotel was quiet...we never heard a peep from neighbors. I'd say the only thing to consider is if you want to take a bath in the jet-tub, it takes about 30-45 minutes to fill..not bad if you are having a leisurely vacation, so we didn't mind much. The Cafe Secret was delicious...breakfast included in the room, which was an omelet or oatmeal + fruit and coffee/tea. We felt like we were in a different country the whole time. On our second night, we were surprised with a bottle of complimentary champagne and glasses to celebrate our special occasion. This made me so warm! Such a thoughtful and sweet owner. If you enjoy an absolute unpretentious masterpiece of a hotel, with breathtaking architecture and wonderful service, please visit The Secret Garden! You will be so happy you did.

I stumbled upon the Les Artistes Inn really by accident and boy am I glad I did! The owners were amazing and it was filled with so much charm! I stayed at the Secret Garden Inn and enjoyed a lovely ocean view, and wonderful food! I would highly recommend this inn if you prefer character, style, and a more boutique style. It was wonderful and a great location and price!