Chris,
I am by no means an expert but here’s my uneducated take on Vista. If you were looking for someone to find you a place there I tell you to find someone else. With that said, here’s what I know. The areas you would be interested in are in 92084 in the Northeast corner of the zip. You could likely find property to meet all you requirements and because of the elevation I believe you could get a much better view than in RSF or Olivenhain. Also, even by San Diego standards Vista has phenomenal weather perhaps the best in the county. The area and topography are absolutely beautiful and it is relatively undeveloped. Vista Valley is a very nice private golf club also.
The downsides are that even though you are far enough away from the rough areas you likely need to drive through them to get to and from the 78. Shopping is limited and finding even a 3-star dining experience is probably 20-30 minutes or more away. Schools are also an issue and I dont know if there are good private options nearby. I dont know that ther is much of a community feeling there and I dont think there is alot of history other than Ranchos. If riding academies are a concern, you might not find many there either.
Based upon what you mentioned that you sold your preivous property for you could find what you are looking for in Olivenhain (which I know very well) today which is close to everything (beach, restaurants, shopping, riding trails/academies, healthcare and quality schools) and has a great community with a rich history. In a few years it should be less. Personally, I would feel very isolated in Vista but that may be appealing to you.
