Rancho Bernardo is the northernmost residential community within the City of San Diego. About 20 miles north of Downtown, Rancho Bernardo is centered on Interstate 15 just south of Hodges Reservoir and the San Pasqual Valley. Situated immediately east of 4S Ranch, north of Carmel Mountain Ranch, northwest of Poway, and south of the city of Escondido. The community planning area encompasses approximately 6,511 acres and is a master planned community that includes private parks and clubs for each neighborhood in the community.

Rancho Bernardo consists of canyons and rolling hills that have large bedrock outcroppings and boasts a sprawling community with shopping centers, golf courses, parks, trails, and the famous Rancho Bernardo winery, which was established in 1889 and is the oldest one in Southern California. It offers visitors activities such as wine tasting, dining and shopping at the nearby village.