Located within the Laguna Mountains, Guatay stands out as a cozy mountain community with a definite rustic charm. The small community is located northwest of Pine Valley along Old Highway 80, with access to Interstate 8. At an elevation of nearly 4,000 feet above sea level, the unincorporated area offers plenty of panoramic views of the surrounding mountain peaks and a secluded, cozy residential experience for many newcomers.

Guatay Mountain is a prominent fixture within the community, offering intrepid visitors a unique hiking experience. Hikers may be able to get an up close glimpse at "Cupressus forbesii," otherwise known as the rare Tecate cypress.

Given its relatively remote location, Guatay might not be on everyone's list when it comes to finding homes for sale. For this reason, real estate in this area is relatively affordable. Most of the homes located in this area are of older stock, consisting largely of single floor, single-family ranchers with relatively simple architecture. Many of these homes are valued not just for their acreage, but also for their privacy, since these homes are shielded by pine trees and other types of foliage.

It is very common for people to commute on a regular basis to jobs in the greater San Diego area. In fact, the central San Diego area is approximately 45 minutes away from the small community.