Descanso Homes for Sale

Descanso Homes for Sale

Welcome to Descanso, California – a hidden gem nestled in the picturesque mountains of San Diego County. Known for its stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere, Descanso offers a unique blend of rural charm and outdoor adventure. Surrounded by lush forests and breathtaking views, this quaint community is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat while still being within reach of the vibrant city life of San Diego.

Descanso is steeped in history, with roots dating back to the 1800s. The town features a delightful mix of rustic cottages, modern homes, and sprawling properties, making it an ideal place for families, retirees, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city living. The local real estate market offers a variety of homes for sale, from charming cabins nestled among the trees to spacious family residences with ample outdoor space for gardening and entertaining.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of recreational opportunities in and around Descanso. Explore the nearby Cleveland National Forest, hike the scenic trails, or enjoy a day of fishing at the picturesque Lake Cuyamaca. The community also hosts local events and farmers' markets, fostering a strong sense of togetherness among residents.

If you’re considering a move to Descanso, now is the perfect time to explore the available homes for sale. With its captivating landscape, welcoming community, and access to nature, Descanso is more than just a place to live—it's a lifestyle waiting to be embraced. Come discover your dream home in this enchanting mountain town!

Newest Descanso Homes for Sale

24286 SHERILTON VALLEY, Descanso
$735,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ PTP2608031 MLS ⋅ Active Status
BEAUTIFULLY MAINTAINED 3 BEDROOM, 2.5 BATH TWO STORY HOME WITH 2669 SQ FT ON 2.56 ACRES AND THE THE HOME FEATURES A LARGE LIVING ROOM WITH FIREPLACE, FORMAL DINING ROOM, FRONT AND BACK COVERED PORCHES TO ENJOY THE VIEWS, EAT-IN KITCHEN WITH CENTER ISLAND AND STAINLESS APPLIANCES, INSIDE LAUNDRY ROOM, RAISED PANEL DOORS, LARGE PRIMARY BEDROOM WITH WALK-IN CLOSET, PRIMARY BATH HAS A DUAL VANITY, SOAKING TUB AND WALK-IN SHOWER, SPACIOUS GUEST BEDROOMS, HUGE GREAT ROOM UPSTAIRS WITH HIGH CEILING AND LARGE PICTURE WINDOWS TO CAPTURE THE STUNNING VIEWS, THIS ROOM HAS IT'S OWN ENTRANCE AND COULD BE CONVERTED TO A POSSIBLE ADU OR WHATEVER YOU NEED, 2 CAR GARAGE, SHEDS, TONS OF EXTRA PARKING, LONG PRIVATE CIRCULAR DRIVEWAY, MATURE LANDSCAPING, WELL WITH STORAGE TANK, FIRE HYDRANT AND DRIP SYSTEMS, BACK UP GENERATOR AND MUCH MORE.

24286 SHERILTON VALLEY, Descanso
9710 Highway 79, Descanso
$540,000
2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ PTP2607795 MLS ⋅ Active Status
Priced to sell, so don’t miss it! Country charm meets everyday convenience in this cozy 2 bedroom, 2 bath home on approximately a quarter acre in Descanso, with a large front yard. Refreshed with a roof just 3 years old, fresh paint, and new carpet and flooring throughout, it’s ready for its next owner. A detached 324 sq ft structure offers endless possibilities, such as a home office, guest space, or storage, while a large shed adds even more flexibility, including garage-style use. Served by city water and independent septic. Immediately off Highway 79 with I-8 only minutes away, this inviting estate is approximately 2 miles to Descanso Elementary, 3.5 miles to Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, 11 miles to Lake Cuyamaca, and 12 miles to Alpine.

9710 Highway 79, Descanso
27546 Old Highway 80, Descanso
$749,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 260024915SD MLS ⋅ Active Status
Welcome to your private retreat in beautiful Guatay! Situated on 1.1 flat, usable acres, this spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom two story home offers 1,892 square feet of character, comfort, and endless possibilities. The expansive, level lot is surrounded by beautiful mature trees, creating a serene, park like setting with shade and natural beauty in every direction. With ample usable land, there is plenty of room for outdoor living, gardening, and so much more. Inside, you’ll find unique finishes throughout that add warmth and personality to every space. The thoughtfully designed two story layout provides both privacy and functionality, with generous living areas perfect for gathering and well sized bedrooms that offer comfort and flexibility. Natural light fills the home, complementing the distinctive details that make this property truly one of a kind. Whether you’re seeking peaceful country living, room to expand, or a home that stands apart from the ordinary, this Guatay gem delivers space, charm, and opportunity all in one.

27546 Old Highway 80, Descanso
24541 MANZANITA DR, Descanso
$780,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ PTP2607661 MLS ⋅ Active Status
REMODELED 3 BEDROOM, 2 BATH WITH 1924 SQ FT ON .58 OF AN ACRE IN THE HILLS OF DESCANSO WITH AMAZING VIEWS. THE HOME FEATURES, WOOD LAMINATE FLOORING, NEW CARPET, NEW PAINT INSIDE AND OUT, LARGE EAT IN KITCHEN WITH GRANITE COUNTERS AND STAINLESS APPLIANCES, DUAL PANE WINDOWS AND SLIDERS, CEILING FANS, UPDATED BATHS, WHOLE HOUSE FAN, LARGE WRAP AROUND COVERED DECK TO ENJOY THE VIEWS, SPACIOUS BEDROOMS, DOWNSTAIRS COULD BE USED AS AN ADU, LONG PRIVATE DRIVEWAY, PRIVACY, LOTS OF EXTRA PARKING, MATURE LANDSCAPING WITH MANZANITA AND MATURE OAK TREES AND MUCH MORE.

24541 MANZANITA DR, Descanso
25077 MANZANITA LN, Descanso
$549,900
2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ PTP2607033 MLS ⋅ Active Status
AMAZING OPPORTUNITY IN DESCANSO. 2 BEDROOM HOME IN NEED OF SOME TLC ON A .76 ACRE LOT AND THIS HOME IS LOADED WITH POTENTIAL AND FEATURES VAULTED EXPOSED WOOD CEILINGS, LIVING ROOM WITH PELLET STOVE FIREPLACE, HUGE FAMILY ROOM WITH EXPANSIVE CEILINGS, DECK TO ENJOY THE VIEWS, SPACIOUS KITCHEN WITH SOLID SURFACE COUNTERS, LARGE BEDROOMS, LOFT AREA, RAISED PANEL DOORS, SOLAR TUBES, VERY LIGHT AND BRIGHT THROUGHOUT, FINISHED OFF ATTIC THAT COULD BE ANOTHER BEDROOM OR ADDITIONAL STORAGE, 1 CAR GARAGE, MULTIPLE SHEDS, RV PARKING, MATURE OAK SURROUND THE PROPERTY AND MUCH MORE.

25077 MANZANITA LN, Descanso
8314 Old Highway 80, Descanso
$539,000
2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ PTP2606432 MLS ⋅ Active Status
Tucked along the banks of the Sweetwater River, this cedar-sided mountain retreat delivers the cozy cabin lifestyle backcountry San Diego is known for. Freshly re-roofed and wrapped in warm cedar siding, the 1,344 sq ft home sits on a private 0.72-acre parcel (2 parcels included 4090210100 & 4090212200) in the Bohemia subdivision of Descanso, just minutes from Alpine and the I-8 corridor. Step inside to a living room anchored by a wood-burning fireplace — the kind of feature that makes this place feel like a true cabin getaway rather than just another house in the mountains. The floor plan offers 2 bedrooms and 2 baths per tax records, plus a versatile office currently used as a third bedroom, giving flexibility for guests, family, or a work-from-home setup. Outside, two additional structures round out the property — envision an ADU, detached office, studio, or simply a shaded outdoor hangout space surrounded by oak and sycamore. The home is served by its own working well, and the wraparound deck and river frontage make it easy to see why the same owners have loved calling this place home for nearly three decades. A rare opportunity to own a slice of San Diego mountains with privacy, and room to grow. Some photos have been staged or altered to show the possibilities of the additional structures and outdoor spaces. ****Showings are to be confirmed by LA. Please schedule in showing time. Showings to only be held on Saturdays 10am - 1pm. Contact LA for questions. SHOWINGS MAY OVERLAP DURING THIS PERIOD.****

8314 Old Highway 80, Descanso
9421 Elm Dr, Descanso
$620,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ PTP2606267 MLS ⋅ Active Status
Enjoy your own private retreat where gorgeous views, and modern comforts, like paid solar and a whole house water filtration system come together in a lovely 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home. Descanso provides the best of both worlds: far enough away to truly feel like you've gotten away from everything, yet close enough to make everyday commuting a breeze. Inside, the home offers comfortable living spaces along with a cozy fireplace, laundry room and AC mini split unit. Step outside and enjoy the ever-changing scenery, peaceful mornings, and dedicated RV parking! Set against sweeping views of the hills and open meadows to the west and south, this is a setting that is hard to find. If you're looking for a home where you can slow down and reconnect with nature, without giving up convenience, this property is a rare opportunity.

9421 Elm Dr, Descanso
9800 #13 Oak Grove Drive, Descanso
$239,000
2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ PTP2605829 MLS ⋅ Active Status
This is a Forest Service Recreational cabin. If you are looking for that long term recreational cabin, this is it. Set up more as a home than a cabin, this home features a comfortable living room with a rock fireplace with insert, open kitchen, inside laundry and two bedrooms. You're going to love the wonderful patio with native rock walls and huge shading oak trees. Quiet area of the National Forest, walk to the post office and store, public library just around the corner.

9800 #13 Oak Grove Drive, Descanso
26440 Old Highway 80, Descanso
$3,125,000
4 Beds ⋅ 7 Baths ⋅ 260016959SD MLS ⋅ Active Status
PRICE IMPROVEMENT! AMAZING OPPORTUNITY! SELLER AGREES TO ENTERTAIN OFFERS BETWEEN $2,950,000 - $3,125,000! YOUR PRIVATE LAKE AWAITS — LA MARQUESA Imagine waking to still water, towering oaks, lakefront tullies and birdsong, where the city feels a world away—yet downtown San Diego is approximately 40 miles from your door. Welcome to La Marquesa, an extraordinary 7,117 sq. ft. lakefront estate set on 7+ peaceful acres and one of only two residences privileged with access to this private, stocked lake. Expansive decks overlooking the water and mountains invite quiet mornings, spectacular sunsets and evenings beneath the stars. Inside, four spacious bedroom suites each offer an ensuite bath, complemented by two optional bedrooms, 6 full baths and a powder room. The dramatic great room, grand fireplace and rich English-style pub create an unforgettable setting for entertaining. The generous kitchen features quartz counters, center island, 8-burner Viking range/oven, stainless appliances, abundant cabinetry and Travertine flooring. A sweeping circular staircase, crystal chandelier and distinctive architectural details add timeless character. This is more than a home—it is space to breathe, room to gather and the privacy to truly escape. Properties like La Marquesa rarely come along. Come experience it in person—because photographs can capture the home, but they can't capture the feeling of being here. Views from every room! This is

26440 Old Highway 80, Descanso
27544 Old Highway 80, Descanso
$569,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ PTP2603988 MLS ⋅ Active Status
New. New. New. There isn't much about this single-story, bright 2-bedroom, 2-bath plus den home that isn't new: new appliances, new soft-close kitchen cabinets, new flooring throughout, new kitchen and bathroom sinks, new countertops, new toilets, new vanities, new paint, new doors. At just over 1,000 square feet, this move-in-ready home sits on 0.6 acres in Guatay, CA — room for your toys, animals, garden, or simply relaxing under majestic oak trees with your favorite beverage. As an added bonus, home is ADA accessible including master bath and bedroom. Easy I-8 access puts you close to everything, while the setting itself feels worlds away. Make it your primary residence, your retreat, or your work from home nest.

27544 Old Highway 80, Descanso
23835 Viejas Grade, Descanso
$2,825,000
5 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 260010615SD MLS ⋅ Active Status
LIVE in timeless craftsmanship and comfort, fully connected to nature. Enter through a peaceful courtyard with koi pond, mature trees, and wood-burning fireplace. Inside, the warmth of locally sourced wood beams, alder-trimmed doors, and rows of French doors invite light and serenity in. The heart of the home is a spacious kitchen flowing into living, dining, and outdoor spaces, complete with walk-in and butler’s pantries. A handcrafted staircase connects the home’s layout, with four fireplaces adding character throughout. The first floor includes a formal living room, full guest suite, office, and a rare indoor pool that elevates daily living. CREATE without limits on this expansive estate. A detached workshop powered by a 600-amp commercial-grade meter supports any craft or business. The property features oversized garages, utility access, and open land to shape your vision. Equestrian facilities include 3 stables, 2 tack rooms, a lighted 100’ x 200’ arena, and 60’ round pen—ready for casual or competitive riding. THRIVE in a private, inspiring retreat partly bordered by forest service land. Thriving oak trees and mature fruit trees dot the landscape, offering natural beauty and abundance. Enjoy riding, gardening, swimming, or fitness—all supported by owned solar and designed for energy efficiency. A rare opportunity to Live, Create, and Thrive—not just in a home, but a way of life. Thriving oaks, mature fruit trees, owned solar, and 8.56 private acres partly bordered by forest service land complete an estate that is as rare as it is refined. To live here is not simply to own a remarkable property. It is to inhabit a way of life that most people only imagine. Now entertaining offers between $2,825,000 and $2,900,000.

23835 Viejas Grade, Descanso
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Based on information from California Regional Multiple Listing Service, Inc. as of . This information is for your personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties you may be interested in purchasing. Display of MLS data is usually deemed reliable but is NOT guaranteed accurate by the MLS. Buyers are responsible for verifying the accuracy of all information and should investigate the data themselves or retain appropriate professionals. Information from sources other than the Listing Agent may have been included in the MLS data. Unless otherwise specified in writing, Broker/Agent has not and will not verify any information obtained from other sources. The Broker/Agent providing the information contained herein may or may not have been the Listing and/or Selling Agent.

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