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City by the Bay
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

Coolest Airbnb San Francisco homes you can rent

Looking to explore the City by the Bay? We've got you covered with our pick of amazing rentals.

Georgia Evans
Written by
Lauren Sheber
Written by
Georgia Evans
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So you've booked that ticket to San Francisco, lined up all the best restaurants to dine at, and have plans to visit every museum in town. All you need is the perfect place to stay. You could reserve a room at one of San Francisco's best hotels, but for something a little homier, consider staying at one of these amazing Airbnb San Francisco homes. From a garden oasis to a geodesic dome to a luxurious artist's retreat, these Airbnb options are the perfect way to experience SF in style. 

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Best Airbnbs in San Francisco

Grand Victorian house
Airbnb

1. Grand Victorian house

Sure, you’re staying in a grand old Queen Anne Colonial Revival townhouse, which is pretty cool. But this exceptional San Francisco Airbnb is as high-tech and contemporary as they come, and kitted out with everything you need to really make yourself at home. We’re talking a state-of-the-art kitchen, not one but two home office spaces, a hot tub, fire pit, BBQ grill and a very snazzy garage gym. And if that all sounds a bit too busy? Hit the Zen garden (it’s a doozy) or treat yourself to a long, refreshing session under the outdoor shower.

Pacific Heights Airbnb with incredible views
Airbnb

2. Pacific Heights Airbnb with incredible views

We’re going to let you in on a little secret: you totally deserve to live it up in a multi-level Pacific Heights apartment with bamboozling views out across the Bay Area. And guess what? That’s exactly what you get with this stunning two-story apartment at the top of a classic late nineteenth-century San Francisco townhouse. You can settle in with three bedrooms on the first floor, with another two upstairs, alongside a massive living room, kitchen and dining room. Still not enough? Check out the incredible private terrace with panoramic views of the Bay, Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the Presidio. Gorgeous.

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An ocean-front home
Airbnb

3. An ocean-front home

You don’t want to have to wander too far to dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean, right? Of course not. And the good news is that this incredible Airbnb puts you right on the beach, with expansive views past your private hot tub and out across the ocean. And yes we’re cheating a bit as this one is about 25 minutes south of San Francisco, but look at it... we had to include it, no? Pitch up, listen to nothing but the waves crashing on the beach, and set yourself on the path to relaxation, in your own private little bit of paradise. 

Bernal Heights studio
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

4. Bernal Heights studio

This cozy studio was once a corner store in its former life. But now, now it's a 1920's-inspired hideaway with a gas fireplace, wood and stone floors, and artistic decor. Perfect for couples exploring San Fran on a romantic getaway, this intimate space features areas for sleeping, dining, cooking, working, and relaxing all in one room. You needn't travel far for amenities, as Cortland Street houses many a restaurant, bakery, cafe, and more, with regular markets and two gorgeous parks.

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Mission suite

5. Mission suite

The photos don’t do this light-flooded retreat justice. Though the modern, blond-wood space feels tucked-away, it’s located less than half a mile to the 24th Street BART. The studio features a queen-size bed, but a twin AeroBed or crib is available for children. At 450 square feet, the studio is uncommonly spacious, including the newly tiled bathroom with dual sinks. The space includes a small table, microwave, and fridge, which is handy for leftovers: La Taqueria, Taqueria El Farolito, Humphry Slocombe, Tartine Manufactory, Dynamo Donut, and Flour & Water are a short walk away.

Beautiful Mission District apartment
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

6. Beautiful Mission District apartment

Soaked in natural light, this is one drop-dead gorgeous apartment in San Francisco. With local art and touches of green lining the walls, it acts as a relaxing backdrop for unwinding and sipping your way through the complimentary bottle of wine left by the host. On your doorstep, you've got the Mission District, which features a rich blend of high and low-end dining, as well as some stellar bars. Then when you're all tuckered out from a night of exploring? You've got a king-sized bed waiting for you.

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Modernized Edwardian Apartment in the Castro
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

7. Modernized Edwardian Apartment in the Castro

This may be on the pricier side, but where isn't in San Fran? Splurge a little on a holiday of a lifetime by booking this dreamy apartment in the Castro/Eureka Valley area. Decked out in meticulously-curated furnishings, this is one pretty place to sleep and stay – you'll probably find it hard to leave. As for features, there's a queen bed, walk-in shower, gas oven, and plenty more to make you feel like a VIP. 

Charming Garden Apartment in Sunset
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

8. Charming Garden Apartment in Sunset

Like the idea of falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves? This charming garden apartment can be found in Lower Sunset, just a stone's throw from the beach. The area is somewhat of a hidden gem, welcoming surfers, artists, hipsters, and families alike in one multicultural neighborhood. Made up of two rooms, the space features a full kitchenette, a comfortable living area, and a cozy bedroom. Pets are welcome (they'll have some friends that live with the host upstairs), and there's free coffee, tea, and a bottle of wine offered to all guests.

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Castro two-bedroom

9. Castro two-bedroom

Old meets new in this stylish two-bedroom apartment. A modern velvet sofa and chunky area rug contrast with vintage art and powder-blue kitchen cabinets. Though it’s near in the center of the Castro—three blocks from the Castro Street MUNI station—the second-story unit is tucked away on a quiet block. Windows span one wall of the living room, flooding the space with natural light. Each bedroom is equipped with its own artfully tiled modern bathroom.

Central Location in Beautiful Victorian
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

10. Central Location in Beautiful Victorian

This particular property sits just 100 feet away from the Panhandle, which is the main entrance to Golden Gate Park. After you're done exploring, you can wander to the beach just is 3.5 miles away. Other nearby attractions include The Conservatory of Flowers, the De Young Museum, the California Academy of Sciences, and Stow Lake Boathouse; so you can tell it's all about location here. That doesn't mean you're compromising on the apartment itself, found within a 100-year old house, with sleek, modern decor providing a gorgeous space when you need to chill.

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SoMa Modern Updated Loft
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

11. SoMa Modern Updated Loft

This show-stopping loft is easily one of the best places to stay in San Francisco. Beautifully decorated, the space boasts an open living room with natural light by the bucket-load, perfectly displaying the original artwork and high-end furniture. You'll be within walking distance to downtown and the Moscone center, with plenty of bars and restaurants ready to keep you entertained until late. Inside, you've got two beds, two baths and a fully-equipped kitchen, making it one gorgeous place to stay.

Eclectic Queen Anne Victorian in NOPA
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

12. Eclectic Queen Anne Victorian in NOPA

Found in the charming NoPa neighborhood, this gorgeous two-floor apartment is within walking distance from many cafes and markets, and right on the bike path to Golden Gate Park. When you're not exploring the city or soaking up gorgeous skyline views from nearby Alamo Square park, you've got a stunning Victorian abode to hang out in. With space for up to five people, it's a brilliant spot for families or friends, and features high ceilings, hardwood floors, and stylish artistic details throughout.

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Castro Victorian

13. Castro Victorian

This two-story, three-bedroom Victorian has been lovingly restored to its original 1893 grandeur—complete with stained glass accents, antique chandeliers, velvet chaise lounges, and a hand-painted mural in the dining room. (There’s even a chandelier dangling overhead in the master bathroom.) Of course, the owners have made a few welcome concessions, including modern kitchen appliances, two fully renovated bathrooms, and a secluded backyard hot tub. The three bedrooms are equipped with a king-size, full-size, and queen-size bed—the latter also includes an adjoining balcony overlooking the garden.

Garden Retreat steps from Haight Street
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

14. Garden Retreat steps from Haight Street

This is the kind of place that would suit a couple or solo traveler. Close to Golden Gate Park, Haight St, Buena Vista Park, and Cole Valley, this is the spot for people who really want to get stuck into the city. The one-bedroom sanctuary is equipped for all seasons, with a beautiful garden view and cozy fireplace, along with a completely private bedroom, bathroom, and breakfast bar. As for kitchen amenities, there's a mini-fridge, Nespresso coffee maker, toaster oven, and goodies waiting for you when you're not out on Haight Street.

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Private Guest Cabana
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

15. Private Guest Cabana

Ok, but what about your own cabana? Soak up some California sun every morning, by opening up the lanai doors from your private suite and enjoying coffee on the patio. Perfect for couples, this cozy space not only comes decked out with all the amenities you could possibly want, but it's radiant with light and decorated with reclaimed coastal redwood, giving it a real beachy feel. The main draw has to be the cabana and lush garden, which houses chaise longues and a hot tub. Plus, it's right in the heart of the uber-cool neighborhood, the Mission. 

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