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The 10 best Airbnbs in California

We’ve found the best Airbnbs in California to match any vibe, from yurts and treehouses to artist lofts and beachside villas

Written by
George Blew
Contributors
Alex Floyd-Douglass
,
Camila Karalyte
&
Jennifer Banful
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California dreamin' on such a winter's day... Head out to California on a road trip or for a few days' break to see what the Golden State has to offer. While 'something for everyone' is definitely overused, it's simply true - California really does have it all. It has some of the best restaurants and attractions in the country plus beautiful beaches, rugged national forests and national parks, vast deserts, and stunning mountains. But on your trip, you'll need somewhere to rest your head, so where to begin?

Heading out to commune with nature? Go all in with a mountainside yurt or a treehouse in the forest. If you’re feeling the artsy vibe, try an artist’s loft in Los Angeles. Alternatively, those looking for the baller lifestyle might consider a stay in a luxury beachside villa. Solitude seekers will love chilling in a homesteader cabin in the desert. The possibilities are endless. Whatever your reason is for heading to California, these Airbnbs are some of the best. However, if you’re not down with the quirky nature of these options, there’s always our list of the best hotels in California to help you out.

RECOMMENDED: See our list of the best things to do in California

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Best California Airbnbs

The tiny home in Topanga
Courtesy: Airbnb

1. The tiny home in Topanga

This ShangriLaLa tiny house Airbnb in California has plenty of ooh la la. Tucked away amongst trees and flowers in a sanctuary garden, this California Airbnb is tranquil, private, and simple. Think of a treehouse but with more elegance (and fewer spiders). It sleeps two guests in a queen-sized bed, perfect for a couple seeking comfort after a day of exploring. The space is warm and welcoming, with plenty of amenities such as a workspace, Wi-Fi, kitchenette, and an outdoor deck for yoga, dancing, or star gazing. You'll feel rested and rejuvenated after your trip here, waking up to birdsong and falling asleep to the subtle sounds of the owls. 

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.
The mood? A mini botanical paradise for two.
Location perks? You'll be tucked away in a beautiful sanctuary garden, yet still close to L.A.
Budget range? An unforgettable luxury romantic weekend.

The mountain top cabin in Ahwahnee
Courtesy: Airbnb

2. The mountain top cabin in Ahwahnee

If the arcade room doesn't sell it to you, then nothing will. This stunning traditional-style mountaintop cabin Airbnb offers breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and wait till you see the sunsets – pack a good-quality camera because you'll want to capture the moments. The two-story cabin can sleep up to 11 guests on 19 acres of rural land, with just a few quiet neighbors. With an arcade room full of retro games, you'll awaken your inner child and never want to leave. But if you do venture to the outside world, the balcony has plenty of seating, a fire pit, a grill, and of course, out-of-this-world views. The kitchen and living room are huge, perfect for cooking up a banquet for your guests or spending a cozy Christmas day nestled up on the sofas – sorry to the ones spending the day cooking, you can rest later. 

Rooms? Three Bedrooms. Sleeps up to 11 guests.
The mood? Chilling by the firepit at dusk.
Location perks? The prime location for mesmerizing sunsets.
Budget range? A peaceful getaway for large groups.

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The guard tower suite in Joshua Tree
Courtesy: Airbnb

3. The guard tower suite in Joshua Tree

The Castle Home Estate takes tiny home living to the next level. This flintstone-esque guard tower sits in the heart of Joshua Tree, just minutes away from the national park. This medieval masterpiece of an Airbnb in California is best suited for a couple looking for a desert retreat. With one bedroom and bathroom, it's cozy but beautifully designed. While you'll be staying in one of the tower's, the entire property is very well maintained and makes for unbelievable glamping experience – complete with impressive stargazing opportunities. 

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps two.
The mood? Modern, light-filled oasis in the desert.
Location perks? Cool off in the shared pool while lapping up the gorgeous views from the National Park.
Budget range? Enjoy two nights in luxury. Ideal for couples.

The luxury beachside villa in San Diego
Courtesy: Airbnb

4. The luxury beachside villa in San Diego

There’s luxury and then there’s Californian luxury – seriously, if "The Wolf of Wall Street" had been set on the West Coast, this place would have been Jordan Belfort's bachelor pad. Kitted out with an oceanfront hot tub and a sun-soaked front deck bigger than most people’s house, this villa is the ultimate place to watch the sunset over the Pacific. Unfortunately, most of us would need a Wall Street-sized paycheck to afford a trip here, but if you’ve got the cash make sure you book this one.

Rooms? Three bedrooms. Sleeps up to six guests.
The mood? Straight-up beach vibes.
Location perks? Top-notch views of Sunset Cliffs. 
Budget range? No expense spared for this honeymoon-worthy stay.  

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The Stonehenge home in Tahoe
Courtesy: Airbnb

5. The Stonehenge home in Tahoe

This spectacular Airbnb in California is built on a rocky ridge overlooking meadows and the crest of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada. Looking like it's built inside some kind of rocky cave side, the home is super unique but cozy, too. If you're a fan of nature and the more rustic side of life, you'll love this Airbnb. Bringing the outdoors in, the home has an earthy vibe and woodburning stoves and firepits throughout the property, plus super authentic and natural decor. Outside, you'll find your own private hot tub to use under the stars and plenty of seating for up to 12 guests. You can throw one heck of a gathering here, so bring your nearest and dearest. 

Rooms? Five bedrooms. Sleeps 12 guests. 
The mood? The postmodern stoneage.  
Location perks? Embrace your inner Tarzan in this natural playground full of massive boulders. 
Budget range? This top-dollar escape to the wild is truly worth it. Great for a family vacation. 

The 1967 campervan in Half Moon Bay
Courtesy: Airbnb

6. The 1967 campervan in Half Moon Bay

If you're after something a little more quirky for your stay in California, we have just the place. This 1967 Airstream campervan Airbnb is a blast from the past but with all the modern bits you need. About 300 yards away from Poplar beach, you'll be able to drift off to sleep to the sound of waves – if you're not seasick. You'll have your own kitchenette for cooking light meals and an ultra-comfy Queen-sized bed to rest your head in. Outside, you'll have full access to the private fenced-off yard that the home sits on, with a fire pit and seating. Small but mighty.

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps two guests. 
The mood? Like a little paradise in a silver bullet.  
Location perks? The perfect way to enjoy the coast, a walkable distance from Main Street.  
Budget range? A dazzling, moderately-priced weekend retreat for two. Perfect for digital nomads. 

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The pool house in Los Angeles
Courtesy: Airbnb

7. The pool house in Los Angeles

After a long day of rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous in downtown L.A., this private pool house Airbnb is the perfect place to relax and unwind. The term 'pool house' doesn’t quite do it justice as this place has its own kitchen, bathroom and backyard – but the real winner is the jaw-dropping view over the sparkling city of angels. It sleeps up to three guests in a queen-sized bed and a sofa bed, but if you fancy a solo trip, then take the bed all to yourself. Ahhh, bliss. Modern, stylish, and sexy, that's what California is all about. 

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps three guests. 
The mood? Sun-drenched bliss. 
Location perks? This prime location is close to downtown LA, Hollywood, Glendale and Pasadena. 
Budget range? This couple's stay is nothing short of luxury. 

The Artist loft near Hollywood
Courtesy: Airbnb

8. The Artist loft near Hollywood

The best way to describe this colourful one-bed loft in Glendale is that it's like stepping inside a comic book. With an art piece to discover in every corner and along every wall (literally), this imaginative space ebbs and flows with the magic of L.A., and we love it for that. Featuring a massive 8' x 10 bed, an open kitchen and a shared patio, this space is perfect if you're looking for a way to get your creative juices flowing. Where else would you find an upcycled stripper-pole breakfast bar? Only in Angeleno. 

Rooms? One bedroom. 
The mood? A trippy, urban wonderland.  
Location perks? Enjoy the likes of Glendale's famous boulevard, and the Taco Bell just across the street. 
Budget range? A one-of-a-kind stay at decent rates. 

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The cozy cabin in the Redwoods
Courtesy: Airbnb

9. The cozy cabin in the Redwoods

That's right, it's a cabin right in the middle of the woods. This is rustic meet luxury – the perfect balance. So, if you're looking for somewhere to get away and unplug, this is the place for you. There's plenty to do here. You could enjoy your evenings taking walks through the woods, or simply relaxing with a cup of cocoa by the fire. And once you've worked up the appetite, there are plenty of nearby restaurants. This is a unique experience that will leave you feeling more relaxed than ever before.

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps up to four. 
The mood? Rustic and ultra cosy.  
Location perks? You'll be minutes away from Occidental, Graton, Forestville and Guerneville. 
Budget range? Enjoy this luxury weekend solo or as a couple.

The tiny house in Coarsegold
Courtesy: Airbnb

10. The tiny house in Coarsegold

The owners call this their little "Boho Fish House". It's situated in Coarsegold, so you'll be among history, restaurants and markets. It's also only half an hour away from Yosemite National Park. If you've been looking for a hotel to stay at with your boo, it's perfect for a romantic getaway, too. Inside, you'll find comfy couches and don't forget to bring some night vision glasses to stargaze by the pool at night. What are you waiting for? Book book book!

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps four. 
The mood? Shabby chic desert shack. 
Location perks? 70 wonderous acres of desert ranch land. 
Budget range? This cosy weekend retreat for two is a bargain. 

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