Other areas nearby that are great include, Cardiff, Encinitas and Del Mar. 

We Normally put steel posts nearby so no one runs into them.In the third picture one unit is just in front of the picture, then a second unit is at the far end on a post.These can be set off by deep fog, rain or sleet. 

Let's grab coffee? 

Explain your situation, your looking to "get in" and would love to just buy em a coffee and pick the brain of a local "pro" for a bit if possible.

Hit them up on Facebook and invite them for coffee or something?

Pick one that is improving, homes being renovated and flipped, vacant storefronts being turned into cool coffee shops etc.Good luck.

I could be wrong but I thought I saw that Sacramento requires primary residence for the owner for STR.Do you live in Sacramento or nearby ?

At our STR, we do have a fully equipped kitchen with coffee pods. 

I currently own and self-manage two STRs in Maine and should be closing on a small 'cabin campground' with 10 cabins nearby that will also be operated as STRs. 

I would say high-quality bedding, cozy outdoor spaces with firepits or seating, and thoughtful touches like local coffee bar setups.