The 11 best Airbnbs near L.A. from desert lodges to mountain retreats

This Scandi-style cabin perched in the rocky hills of Topanga State Park has huge A-frame windows letting you wake up to expansive views of the glorious Santa Monica mountain scenery. It’s small, but cosy, with an ergonomic design that uses the space to its full potential. Nature lovers will enjoy the outdoor bathroom that lets you shower under the stars. And while there’s no kitchen, the hosts can cook up an organic continental breakfast on request, which is left outside the cabin door in the mornings.

Rooms? One bed. Sleeps up to two guests. 
The mood? An isolated hideaway with views to die for. 
Location perks? You’ll be treated to sweeping views of the Canyon around Topanga and have access to hiking trails in the Tuna Canyon. 
Budget range? An affordable stay for two. 

Take a break from the daily grind and lose yourself in the chill vibes of this awesome cabin hideaway Airbnb in Joshua Tree. The rustic and boho atmosphere provides the perfect ambiance to find your zen in the desert. Enjoy stunning sunsets, dine al fresco under the starry sky, or just shoot the breeze around the firepit. With three bedrooms, it sleeps up to six guests, making it great for a family or friend getaway. You can whip up a feast in the fully-equipped kitchen or hit the local bars and restaurants, just a short drive away. Seclusion has never felt this fancy. 

Rooms? Five beds. Sleeps up to six guests.
The mood? A nostalgic, Bohemian oasis right in the desert.
Location perks? Enjoy epic Mojave Desert views by day and a glimpse of the Milky Way by night.
Budget range? A gorgeous stay for a reasonable price.
Time Out Tip: Dive into one of the 100 VHS movies available during your stay.

This place isn’t your run-of-the-mill cozy cabin—it’s brimming with character. Tucked into the rolling hills east of Temecula, it’s designed to host two guests with a queen-sized bed and a sofa bed (small but mighty, right?). There’s a charming outhouse for your bathroom needs and an outdoor cooking area with comfy seating, ideal for unwinding in the evenings. Gaze at the stars right from your bed, or rise early to catch breathtaking sunrises. You’ll feel nothing but peace out here.

Rooms? Three beds. Sleeps up to two guests. 
The mood? This place is proof that good things come in small packages.
Location perks? It doesn't get any more zen than this star-studded valley.
Budget range? Enjoy a glorious stay for two at an affordable rate.

For the adventurous souls seeking the ultimate experience, take a look at this private dome tent, hidden away in Wonder Valley near Twentynine Palms and Joshua Tree National Park. Yep, it’s a tent, but trust us, it’s a cozy oasis in the heart of the breathtaking desert. You’ll have unobstructed mountain views during the day and a mesmerizing starry night sky. If you manage to wake up early, you’ll be greeted with stunning sunrises that might just convert you into a morning person.

Rooms? One bed. Sleeps up to two people.
The mood? 'Fly me to the moon.'
Location perks? It doesn’t get much better than stargazing in the middle of the desert.
Budget range? An affordable stay for two cosmic dreamers. 

Searching for a comfy spot to crash after a day of outdoor thrills? Look no further than this cozy A-frame chalet tucked away in Big Bear Lake, just a two-hour drive (optimistically) from L.A. This rustic-luxe gem boasts three roomy bedrooms, a custom fireplace, contemporary decor, and luxurious touches like stone countertops, top-notch linens, and even a telescope for stargazing. Outside, there’s a Char-Broil BBQ and a hot tub for soaking under starry nights with some cold drinks in hand. This place is a perfect forest hideaway for a gang of friends ditching city life for a wild weekend. Who’s in charge of the s’mores?

Rooms? Three beds. Sleeps up to six guests.
The mood? Picture slow-burning embers and relaxed conversations against a stylish modern setting.
Location perks? Nestled in the lower Moonridge area, you're surrounded by outdoor activities like skiing, mountain biking, and hiking. 
Budget range? A snug retreat for couples or families at a reasonable rate.

Who said you couldn’t have it all, eh? This charm-your-socks-off hideaway has all the hallmarks of an off-grid escape. In reality, it’s right in the middle of the city in Elysian Heights, just up from the vibrant Echo Park. We fell in love with its artful mix of textured boho stylings and playful, colorful accessories. The bathroom is a big draw with a crystal rain shower that’ll make you feel like you’re in a shampoo commercial. Similarly, the beautifully rugged outdoor space (with hammock) demands you spend a whole lot of time in it.

Rooms? One bed. Sleeps two.
The mood? Bright boho with a romantic edge.
Location perks? While feeling like you’re ‘away from it all’, you’ll actually be within a stone’s throw of the lovely, artsy Echo Park neighborhood.
Budget range? You’ll pay a little more for the great location.

This renovated 1960s chalet offers panoramic views of the ski slopes, a rustic stone fireplace, an entertaining foosball table, and a modern 4K TV. In other words, it has everything you need for a cozy winter weekend. Snow Summit Resort is just a stone’s throw away if you’d like to ski. But we totally get it if you’d rather have a weekend full of Netflix and chillin’ by the fire. The property accommodates up to five guests, making it the perfect spot for a weekend getaway with your besties—it’s almost like one of those cheesy horror films set in log cabins.

Rooms? Three beds. Sleeps up to five guests.
The mood? Cozy, secluded, and peaceful—pure bliss.
Location perks? Perched on a hillside with views of Bear Mountain, this place sets the stage for relaxation.
Budget range? The cost makes it an ideal choice for a group vacation.

Experience the tranquility of this solar-powered tiny house. Rise and shine to the inviting sunlight streaming into the lofted bedroom, and spend your day exploring the pristine surroundings (if you can manage to leave those ultra-comfortable beds). When evening comes, return to the property to grill your dinner in the communal fire pit while gazing up at the twinkling stars above. It’s like camping but with a cozy twist.

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps up to four guests.
The mood? A tiny paradise in the heart of nature.
Location perks? Nestled among the foothills of Sequoia National Forest.
Budget range? An eco-friendly escape for two. 

Dive into the desert vibes at this chic South Joshua Tree home. With two beautifully designed bedrooms, modern bathrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen, you’ll have everything you need to make your stay more than comfortable. Explore the nearby hiking spots before taking a refreshing dip in the roomy outdoor pool. If it’s a bit nippy, don’t worry—you can warm up in the hot tub while stargazing, and later cozy up in front of the fire for a movie night on the indoor projector screen. It really is desert life at its finest.

Rooms? Two beds. Sleeps up to four guests.
The mood? A secluded desert stay.
Location perks? You're just a short 5-minute drive from Desert Wild and only a 10-minute drive from the entrance to Joshua Tree National Park.
Budget range? This one will cost you a pretty penny.

Chill out and enjoy this family cabin in the heart of Big Bear Lake, just a quick 5-minute stroll from all the dining and shopping fun at The Village. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or taking it easy by the lake, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures to enjoy during your stay. Once you’ve had your fill of fun, head back to your cozy lounge and cuddle up by the wood-burning fireplace. Oh, and it’s a pet-friendly spot, so don’t forget to mention your furry companions to the host before booking.

Rooms? Four beds. Sleeps up to five guests.
The mood? A true Alpine retreat.
Location perks? Nestled in a quiet neighborhood, surrounded by trees, this cabin is the perfect way to get back in touch with nature.
Budget range? A good option for families or large friend groups.

If you just saw the interiors of this home, you'd think it was set in the California suburbs: cozy yet big, bright and airy BUT with the added bonus of having the desert on your doorstep. Talk about the best of both worlds. Retreat from the heat in this modern open-plan bungalow with a minimalist boho design. You'll feel at peace as soon as you step inside – and there's even an option to get snug come the evening by igniting the wood burning fireplace and sinking into the plush couch. The outside is also something special: check out the fire pit, yoga deck, cowboy tub and Jacuzzi. 

Rooms? Four beds. Sleeps up to six guests. 
The mood? Modern boho. 
Location perks? Semi-remote: set on a private desert oasis that offers expansive mountain views but it also close to town. 
Budget range? A great deal.