The 13 best Airbnbs in California

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, a 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.
Time Out tip: Enjoy a morning soak in the outdoor tub, surrounded by nature. 

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.

….and breeeattheee. This stunning wooden home sits right in the heart of the Topanga canyon. But if that sounds a little like you’d be roughing it, think again. An expertly designed and curated building offers luxury living at its finest. The canyon color scheme of deep sandy browns and flashes of vibrant vegetation is used throughout the interiors – all except those white tiled bathrooms which almost double as art installations. Huge windows ensure you get unmissable views from each room, but don’t miss the chance to also gaze deeply into that big, big blue sky from the living room balcony. Architecture fans, rejoice (and book now).

Rooms? Three bedrooms. Sleeps up to six guests.
The Mood? The most gorgeous home you will ever step into. Ever.
Location Perks? All the wild, untamed beauty of the Topanga canyon (with a pizza joint not far away).
Budget Range? Not a cheap stay – but a very, very cool one.
Time Out tip: Welcome in the sunrise with an early morning session in the yoga studio.

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.

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.  

Here’s how to do ‘nature’ if you’re someone less keen on, well, mud and other slightly less charming aspects of the natural world. This creekside yurt in Idyllwild-Pine Cove is luxury camping at its finest. In fact, calling it ‘camping’ or even ‘glamping’ probably undermines just how slinky smooth this whole set-up is. Soft-as-air memory foam mattresses, Turkish cotton spa robes, apothecary toiletries, artisan tea and coffee, a gorgeous hammock… too much to list. It’s all just lovely, Ok? And best of all, everything has been designed and included with eco principles like upcycling and organic remedies in mind. So your conscience can rest as easily as you will under a duvet made from recycled plastic bottles.

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps two.
The Mood? Glamping got serious.
Location Perks? A pine-scented wilderness with many creature comforts, next to Strawberry Creek. 
Budget Range? A price you won’t regret for a pretty special vacation.
Time Out tip: No tips, no stress, just full immersion. Here’s your chance to relax: take it.

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 stone age.  
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. 

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. 

This custom-built home in the Santa Monica mountains was designed to maximise exposure to the stunning natural world surrounding it. Floor to ceiling windows offering spectacular views instantly steal everyone’s attention but turn your head towards the interiors just a moment. The big design note here is ‘mid-century modern’ but it’s combined with a certain laid-back cool only truly found in California. Cool, uncluttered minimalism is made warmer thanks to punches of soft pinks, coral and red. We love how those stunning views of sea and sky act as living artworks in the bedrooms, giving you plenty to gaze at as you kick back and plan your next trip to the beach.

Rooms? Four bedrooms. Sleeps eight.
The Mood? Your Malibu dream home with views to match.
Location Perks? SoCal’s most beautiful beaches are just minutes away.
Budget Range? Pricey but gorgeous. Really gorgeous.
Time Out tip: The hosts recently added a hot tub with ocean views…

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 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. 

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 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.