Casa Serena

Our recent stay was for 7 people. We had a great time. The house is conveniently located to Winn Dixie for groceries. We had a great breakfast at Donut Gallery Diner. Short drive to Crandon Park or Bigg Baggs for the beach. The backyard and pool area are beautful. The property management co was responsive by email to questions prior to our visit.

- Mike P. from NA, Posted: 01/17/2024

Amazing!! What a home!!!

- Amy L. , Posted: 11/01/2021

home was pleasant and well stocked with items needed in vacation home. neighbors seemed friendly when we were out walking the dogs. host checked in with us to make sure everything was okay. home was generally clean except that dishes had been put away dirty (probably by previous tenant). notebook on house and area very complete and very helpful. a very nice experience.

- Anonymous from Cumming, Posted: 07/05/2014

We had a great stay. The place was clean, and beautiful. We took a long walk to the beach and nearby stores. The pool and outdoor shower were also great!

- Anonymous from Great Falls, Posted: 08/14/2023

This was our second visit to Casa Aralia and it served our needs very well. The location is close to the Pasadena area yet secluded with FANTASTIC views. We walked/hiked everyday from the house to the near by trails. We look forward to our next stay at Casa Aralia.

- David A. from Jenison, Posted: 06/14/2017

Casa Aralia had everything we needed, and we felt very comfortable there. We loved the patio.

- Anonymous from Redmond, Posted: 03/18/2015

The place was very clean. There was a very thoughtful welcome basket for us. With the couple of questions we had, we received a call back very promptly! The neighborhood was very quiet. Would definitely stay there again,

- Ranold H. from Middleburg Heights, Posted: 08/02/2019

We had a great stay in Pasadena for the Rose Parade! The home was clean, well kept and very comfortable. Kathleen was very responsive to emails and made sure we felt right at home. We had a plumbing issue the night of NYE and had to leave to enjoy our holiday and when we returned, the management company had been there, solved the plumbing problem, left fresh towels and a spotless bathroom and gave us some special offers for being inconvenienced. We were really impressed with their professionalism. A good location, less than 10 mins drive to Old Pasadena and the Rose Parade. Highly recommend this place!

- Alison B. from Hopkinton, Posted: 01/19/2015

Everything was fine except we experience some ants in the kitchen.
We were disappointed that the patio was not as nice as it looked in the pictures. The cushions need to be replaced and then removed when not used so that they stay out of the weather. The patio needs some attention.
Beds were comfortable, bathroom was clean and well stocked as was the kitchen.
Would love to stay again but would want the patio cleaned up so we could enjoy it.

- Anonymous from Chandler, Posted: 09/27/2017

We stayed at Casa Serena for 8 nights and were a family of 6. It worked perfectly - there was plenty of room for our children and we were a short ride to our family who live nearby. The house was well laid out and clean. Everything worked as we expected and we would definitely book again if we returned.

- Anonymous , Posted: 10/31/2018

Perfect and very friendly dealing with reservation and all other formalities.

- Anonymous , Posted: 05/30/2015

Casa Aralia was a very nice place to stay. It's situated in a quiet neighborhood nestled in a hill. It get plenty of natural light. We stayed for about 3 weeks and it didn't have any issues to speak of. Our dog loved laying outside in the sun and watching the squirrels run around too.

- Carlos C. from Pasadena, Posted: 10/11/2019

Our rental was exactly as described. The rental process was handled very professionally and Kate was very accommodating. The rental was clean, well stocked and provided all the necessary kitchen items for an enjoyable stay. The neighborhood is safe and neighbors friendly. The washer and dryer were a plus. We will likely stay here again on a future visit

- Anonymous from Madison, Posted: 03/02/2017

We had an amazing vacation in Casa Serena, comfortable, clean and very cozy!!
Carla is being so nice and helpful with anything we need.
We would love to come back soon !

- Ana S. , Posted: 08/21/2019

We recently had guests in town for a family reunion and were not able to accommodate in our home! What a lovely surprise to find a place like Casa Aralia. The home is very well was very clean and overall very comfortable. The Vacation Living team was a pleasure to work with!

- Anonymous , Posted: 11/23/2014

This is a beautiful house in a great location. The decor is eclectic and stunning. Everything was clean and the description is spot on. It's a short drive to beaches and the Seaquarium. The only thing missing were washcloths. If we come back to Key Biscayne, this is definitely where we will stay!

- Catherine E. from Richmond, Posted: 07/03/2017

Peaceful getaway in the mountains. The property management was professional and had great communication with the guest. I would definitely do this again for my family. It made our vacation more relaxing and enjoyable.

- Jessica N. from Fallbrook, Posted: 08/04/2024

First let me say this experience was truly a home away from home. Kate was beyond accommodating and flexible with us. Our schedule changed and we asked for an early check in and our request was granted not once but twice (we moved times twice). The home was perfect for our family and our dog. It was clean, comfortable and tucked away in a beautiful location away from the hustle/bustle of Pasadena. We will definitely return...oh and the icing on the cake, my husband left his phone charger and I am told it has been put in the mail to us...Thank You Kate for a lovely time!

- Kimberly B. from Mission Viejo, Posted: 07/08/2017

Casa Aralia was a perfect "home away from home" during our two month visit with children and grandchildren in the Pasadena area. The house was clean, simply and well decorated, and with a few minor exceptions, everything worked as described. We especially enjoyed the gas fireplace during a few cold spells, the patio, as well as the miles of hiking trails easily accessible from the neighborhood!

- Anonymous from Avon, Posted: 12/05/2022

We spent 5 weeks at the Casa Aralia house. The manager, Karo, provided excellent customer service and took care of all issues, promptly, as they arose. She wanted to make sure that we were happy and comfortable.

- Zapher D. from San Diego, Posted: 10/08/2016

We were in town for a wedding on the Key so this worked well. Our only complaint was we had to ask for a coffee pot- I guess it broke/ and no idea how to work the tv or instructions. The outside patio cushions were soaked from all the rain so couldn’t really sit outside, Otherwise it was great and would stay again.

- Anonymous from Jupiter, Posted: 09/25/2023

We were absolutely delighted with this stay. The place is beautifully appointed and located in what is probably one of the best zip codes in the entire country. When a maintenance issue surfaced during our stay, a technician materialized almost immediately. I have managed a portfolio of short term rentals myself for 19 years. This property, and its management, are standouts.

- Gerald (Alec) S. from Alexandria, Posted: 06/30/2022

What a cute little bungalow, nicely decorated and a great outdoor area to enjoy and relax. I was a little concerned when making our way to the house but once there we realized it really was in a good location with a traffic free route to Santa Anita where we spent time at this years Breeders Cup. I would definitely rent this house again the next time we attend the event. Vacation Living LLC staff was wonderful.

- Anonymous from Oakwood, Posted: 11/09/2016

Quaint older trpi-plex unit updated with comfy beds, upscale decor & well-stocked kitchen. Large patio with seating & table. We have a friend near here & very convenient for our needs. We recently explored the La Canada area & found it to be closer for many of our needs rather than traveling further into downtown Pasadena. 3rd time we have rented in these units. Management very attentive & pleasant

- Janet K. from Sacramento, Posted: 05/04/2017

The place is very nice although there were some thing not in working order . The neighborhood is quiet except for the neighbors dogs were allowed to bark for long periods of time and often woke us up. The apartment is very well equipped and clean and the private patio is very nice. So much better than a hotel room. The location is off the beaten track and up into the mountains a little ways. The next time we visit we would like to be in an area where we can walk to restaurants and shops.

- Mary E. from Hartville, Posted: 10/26/2014

We had a great experience at Casa Serena! The house was very clean and uniquely decorated.

- Ally N. , Posted: 06/25/2019

Great stay, home was clean and very well kept. everything you would need to feel like you are home. beautiful drive up to Casa Aralia, great view of the mountains. breakfast on the back patio was a great way to start the day. Kathleen was in contact during our stay in case we needed anything. old Pasadena is just a couple miles away and is a fun time, rose bowl stadium is also close (4 mi). don't miss a chance to eat at Pie n'Burger. if you are a baseball fan, the tour of Dodgers stadium is fantastic. I would recommend this property to friends and we will stay there again if we have a chance to come back to so cal.

- Anonymous from albany, Posted: 11/16/2016

We enjoyed our stay at Casa Aralia. We only stayed a few days, but found it clean and comfortable. Nice neighborhood.

- Steve K. from North Platte, Posted: 05/05/2014

We really enjoyed our one week stay. It felt like home away from home. Upon arrival, we were delighted by the chocolate truffles, chips and salsa, and a bottle of red wine in the welcome basket. The cabin is very clean, well stocked, and located in a quiet location. We enjoyed taking a walk uphill along the road near the cabin. The location is very convenient as well, quite near Pasadena and its main attractions.

- Anonymous from Norman, Posted: 10/21/2014

Casa Aralia is just a beautiful peace of quiet. Off the freeway and in the hills of Altadena it is peaceful and the managers are great.

- Karen C. from Glendale, Posted: 02/06/2022

Loved this rental home! The decor is interesting, inviting, and comfortable, providing many different place to sit together and also many nooks to enjoy a little alone time. The kitchen was stocked with most basic needs (including sharp knives), though a new set of pots and pans is suggested. Vacation Living provided excellent service and was very responsive to any needs we had. Loved the village of Key Biscayne! This was out third trip to KB and we will not hesitate to rent this home again if we return.

- bob g. , Posted: 03/12/2018

This rental had everything we needed for our stay and was in a great neighborhood where we felt very comfortable to walk and run, keeping in mind that there are lots of hills.The views in the neighborhood are amazing and the neighbors were very friendly. We had lots of very needed rain for the area so we did not use the back patio space but is very nice. The only negative was that the floors were not very clean and there were lots of cobwebs in the high windows and above kitchen cabinets. We had no problems with cell phone coverage as in this canyon.

We do plan to return to Casa Aralia again.

- David A. from Jenison, Posted: 01/25/2017

Our stay at this wonderful, peaceful retreat, nestled up on the side of the San Gabriel foothills was perfect. We needed a great space to "be" after a cancer surgery and simultaneously needing to move out of our home for repair and renovation due to unexpected water damage. We couldn't have had a better place to be than Casa Aralia. The patio was a favorite spot, but the birdsong wake-ups were our favorite aspect about the place--and the comfort of the bedding!! Everything was as it should be.

- Romi B. , Posted: 05/27/2016

We love this house and can’t say enough about it! Immaculate, cozy, well-located. Home-away-from-home! We rent it as a staycation whenever we can! Love Geraldine, Claudia and their team!

- Amy L. , Posted: 06/28/2024

Our third or fourth visit to this rental. The unit is convenient for our visits to Grandkids and as usual the rental was in good condition.

- Anonymous from Madison, Posted: 06/27/2017

Fantastic all around. Great location, cute pool....really a relaxing space to spend time.

- Senet B. from Larchmont, Posted: 05/01/2018

Great house for a family. We highly recommend it.

- Anonymous from Westport, Posted: 02/28/2018

Beautifully decorated and maintained home with an outstanding master suite, located in a great area. We enjoyed walking around Key Biscayne, and made it to the beach and the bay. Major grocery store is 5 minutes away. Nice to be away from the Miami highrises.

- Anonymous , Posted: 11/15/2016

Casa Aralia was a wonderful place to kick off your shoes and relax. Clean, modern, and comfortable... my wife cannot stop talking about the very luxurious king bed! Private backyard area provided a opportunity for al fresco dining or a sanctuary for quiet reading. Cable TV, wifi, and a modern kitchen... This place has everything you need. We loved it!

- Anonymous , Posted: 04/21/2014

We enjoyed our stay at Casa Aralia. It's in a lovely section of Altadena and nicely furnished. However, the floor throughout the house is made of tiles, with only one throw rug in the living room. It's quite chilly on the feet. The forced air heat works well, but as soon as the warm air stops, the house quickly gets chilly again.

- Anonymous from Fairfield, Posted: 03/12/2023

We had to relocate from our home due to water damage and couldn't have picked a better place for us and our two cocker spaniels. At a time of extraordinary turmoil, Helena, Kim, and the entire staff went above and beyond to accomodate us during our entire stay. They are truly an inspiring and dynamic group of wonderful people. We want to take this opportunity to thank them for their empathy and understanding, and again thank them for their all of their kindness!

- Tamara A. , Posted: 07/17/2018

We had a wonderful stay at Casa Aralia. Being up in the hills was relaxing after facing the California traffic. Property management was in contact and available throughout our stay if we needed anything.

- jennifer . from Sandy , Posted: 02/11/2015

We stayed in the upstairs row house. We loved it! Spacious, nicely decorated, and with all of the amenities we needed. Only a few blocks to the subway. Quiet neighborhood with restaurants nearby. Gladys was GREAT to work with.

- Anonymous from La Canada Flintridge, Posted: 02/07/2017

Pictures don't depict the disgusting couch, chairs & floors. Couch must be decades old and has many stains. Furniture is older than it looks in photos.
Neighbors next to bedroom have 3 large barking dogs who are kept outside, and woke me up every morning at ~5am.
Dishes are cracked and sparse.
Hot water heater not strapped as required by CA code. This is unsafe (and frankly illegal).

I was hoping for a quiet stay at a clean place near hiking trails. This is not what I received. Although reviews online, which must have been "sorted", depict a nicer place than what it is.

- Anonymous , Posted: 06/03/2019

Casa Serena was the perfect location for our group of 5 friends who all turned 60 this year! The home itself is beautifully, tastefully, and personally decorated (none of that "I'm in a rental" feel). The beds very comfortable (not always the norm), and the lushly tropical courtyard with pool is the perfect spot for morning coffee and afternoon cocktails. The kitchen was good for our purposes as we ate most meals out (especially the coffee and espresso machines!) but could use a few upgrades (we only found 5 dinner plates, for example). Located in a calm and upscale residential area, we took long walks around the neighborhood & used UBER to get into Little Havana & Miami during the day.

Geraldine (our host) communicated perfectly throughout and when we had a small issue with the TV, she responded swiftly and walked us through the fix. Cannot compliment her enough! The only negative is none of us felt the casita would work for a 5th bedroom (musty).

All in all, a 5 Star Stay for us & highly recommended.

- Anonymous , Posted: 12/28/2019

We really enjoyed this home. It was well appointed, very clean and charming. The outside patio area was comfortable but could be even better with the addition of a gas fire pit for those chilly evenings. Other than the kitchen floor needing to be mopped better, the home was very clean.

The Internet connection was good but our one complaint is that there is virtually NO cell service and we had to get in the car and drive down the road just to make phone calls. Not a convenient thing to have to do when you're in town on business.

- Karen B. from Kennesaw, Posted: 12/05/2016

We were in town to visit colleges in the area. Perfect for travel with our high school age son! Easy driving to all of the top colleges in the LA area plus Claremont area schools are a close drive. Quiet location and comfortable beds and stay!

- Julie K. from Westborough, Posted: 04/18/2019

We have stayed at this rental quite a few times over the past 4 years. The home is always clean, the kitchen well supplied with pots, pans and cooking utensils.
Off the beaten path in a scenic area this is a nice escape from Southern California traffic and business.
We had a question about the television and quickly got a response from management to help us get it resolved.

- Anonymous from Madison, Posted: 06/27/2018

The minute you walk into this home you know you're in for something special! We enjoyed such a wonderful stay at Casa Serena...the house is beautifully furnished and the kitchen is fully stocked. The heated pool was an added plus. This is our second time in Key Biscayne - what a perfect way to explore miami from the comfort of a beach town! We rented a golf cart and enjoyed everything the key has to offer.

- Antonia S. from Dayton, Posted: 05/11/2016

Loved the house for my family and my young adult single friends.

- MARCO B. from NY, Posted: 11/27/2018

Great house, great location, perfect for our family

- Anonymous from Moorestown, Posted: 12/26/2019

the property management company was accommodating and the property was beautifully decorated! We enjoyed our stay here very much.

- jacqueline b. from cambria, Posted: 12/11/2014

We enjoyed our stay in the beautiful Key Biscayne home!

- Anonymous , Posted: 04/10/2019

Lovely island. Even more elegant neighborhood. Fantastic home. Unusual for homes available for rent--very tasteful. Felt more like being in one's own home. Layout very conducive to family times. Garden lush. We rented a golf cart which was a plus. Used
the bikes. (Bring your own helmet). One issue to be aware of--not restroom in pool house and the other rooms are all set up better for couples than two children. We had no trouble making it work with 3 young teenagers, one elementary school child, 1 aunt,
1 grandma and parents. We will return which is the highest recommendation.

- Nina F. from New York, Posted: 04/06/2016

Beautiful Location
We stayed at this place for three weeks. It was in a beautiful location close to the San Gabriel foothills with easy access to hiking trails. The neighbors were very friendly and we would see the same people walking dogs and going for a morning stroll every day. The house itself is pretty small for four people plus pets for an extended stay but doable. The kitchen was well stocked and the host provided a welcome basket which was a nice touch. My main issue with the house is that it is in need of some TLC with cracked tile floors and popcorn ceilings. The W/D is outside which is fine but we could never get the outside light to work which made doing laundry in the evening challenging. There were also some maintenance issues with the furnace and filters needing to be cleaned. The other thing to note is that there is one canyon road that accesses the neighborhood. That road is subject to rock slides when it rains and we had a treacherous day of driving through the canyon on a particularly rainy day. But for the 355 days of year it doesn't rain in SoCal, it wouldn't be a problem.

- Jason C from Washington, DC, Posted: 02/26/2022

Nice spot in the hills. Comfortable with good kitchen and nice outdoor area. Near to Pasadena. Worked great for us!

- David F. from Chicago, Posted: 02/13/2024

We had a great time. House was very clean, had lots of bathroom and kitchen amenities that I thought I’d have to shop for once we got there. Pool was great, although the vacuum was left floating in it. Minor complaints - lots of light bulbs were out and two smoke detectors were beeping all night long, on two separate nights. Annoying but easily fixed.

- Michael B. from Old Bridge, Posted: 11/29/2018

The neighborhood was very nice. The cottage was spacious patio area private and pretty. The bedrooms were very comfortable. Kitchen space good!

- Kathryn M. from Reno, Posted: 04/11/2015

We stayed for a week with 4 grand children 2,3,4 and 8 and their parents. 10 people total.
The key Biscayne location is very nice and the house is decorated with great taste. Kitchen and common areas worked out very well. Master bedroom and bath are top notch.
We did follow the recommendation of renting a golf cart. It made the stay more fun and was a hit with the grand kids.
Our host welcomed us with a few bottles of wines which was a very nice surprise after our cross country flight.

That said, there are a number of negatives:
The casita cannot be construed as a fifth bedroom: it is closer to a garage for bikes than a bedroom. It is humid and reeks mildew. The kids ended up sleeping with their parents in the king bed. This house is sized for 8 at most to be comfortable. 10 is a stretch.
The other 3 bedrooms are served by a single small bath: we made it work. The kitchen is well equipped but pans need to be replaced.
The kitchen has a number details that need help: frying pans in dire need of replacement, dishwasher tray is missing wheels.

While there were some disappointments from the house, we still had a great time.
Key Biscayne has some great locations with nice Latino foods such as Patagonia Nahuen or Meating and a top gourmet grocery store Golden Hog.
Cape Florida is a must see destination!
The Frost Science museum was a hit with kids and adults.

- Vincent P. , Posted: 06/18/2019